For the people of Grafenwoehr, Elvis will always be the king.
In 1958, stationed as a young American soldier in Germany, the singer gave a concert here which remains the stuff of legend. Two years ago, the Bavarian town – which is home to the largest US military training base outside America – even held an anniversary party.
But even as costumed fans shimmied, jived and reminisced, the talk was of an uncertain future.
US President Donald Trump had, reportedly, just ordered officials to evaluate the cost and the consequences of removing American troops from German soil.
At the time some were alarmed but many dismissed it as tactical talk. Designed to put Germany – which Mr Trump had singled out for failing to meet Nato spending commitments on defence – in its place. But it was the first of many such threats.
So, earlier this week, when, after a week of reports and rumours, the US president confirmed plans to pull 9,500 soldiers out of Germany, many in Berlin were dismayed but few were surprised.
Elvis spent several weeks training on base – and even played a gig
Ministers have…
