The less Americans are living in base communities and involved in manufacturing for the military, the smaller the number who have any sense of what is involved in keeping the nation secure.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: A world of hurt

At this time of year temperatures in the Northeast often fluctuate dramatically, causing icing, while rain often destroy the base, but right now, East Coast skiers and snowboarders are living the dream and looking at excellent conditions for this time of year, even for Nordic skiing, where snowmaking is a rarity.

FORBES: Hit The Slopes! Coast-to-Coast Snow Kicks Off Skier's Dream Season For 2013