ABSTRACT
West Germany has been the site of the largest foreign-based component of the all-volunteer force since the advent of the all-volunteer force (AVF) in 1973. A lively debate has erupted in the Gnited States over the long-term viability of the AVF. This chapter attempts to understand how West German attitudes toward the AVF have affected the social acceptability of United States (US) forces in West Germany and hence the texture of the politico-military relationship between the US and the Federal Republic of Germany. The Wickert poll attempted to fill this gap by including questions that touched upon major characteristics of the AVF. Most of the favorable quotes in reference to the AVF were attributed to US military authorities, though West German journalists seemed to find a greater number of unfavorable comments emanating even from US military commanders. The opinions of West German officials and other citizens in reference to the AVF may also be found in numerous US newspaper articles.
