9,000 Marines will be tranferred from Okinawa to Guam , Hawaii and Australia . This resolves a pact to reduce U.S. troops in Okinawa , easing local tensions . In short , the shifting of U.S. forces in the Asia-Pacific region is designed to deter conflict , respond to contingencies , reassure allies and partners , and shape an evolving regional order , including cooperation on humanitarian assistance and disaster response . Cronin : The US has been increasing its military presence on the island of Okinawa, which is home to about half of all American forces stationed overseas. Cronin : U.S. presence helps preserve order , influence in the fast-growing region .
9,000 Marines will be tranferred from Okinawa to Guam , Hawaii and Australia . This resolves a pact to reduce U.S. troops in Okinawa , easing local tensions . Cronin : The US has been increasing its military presence on the island of Okinawa, which is home to about half of all American forces stationed overseas. Cronin : U.S. presence helps preserve order , influence in the fast-growing region .