Keeping America's military strong is one of the federal government's most important functions. Even with armed forces that are properly trained and well-armed, the United States is vulnerable to threats both at home and abroad; without them, we are helpless against these threats. Our armed forces must have sufficient funding to enable them to be prepared for fighting the immediate war on terrorism, maintaining adequate capability to deter aggression against America and its allies and contribute to homeland defense. American Values supports military efforts undertaken to ensure the safety of American citizens. We also strongly support and endorse diplomatic actions – such as those carried out be the U.S. Department of State – that attempt to increase understanding and resolve disputes non-militarily.