I think we essentially agree. The M in DIME needs to be applied wisely, and we are defaulting to it a little too easily these days; and GCCs oversee (ok, "track" or "are aware of" may be more accurate)thousands of engagement events annually throughout their AORs. Virtually all of these are taking place in "Phase 0" environments. I.e, these populaces are at peace.

Getting State to be more proactive and to do a better job of ensuring that every military event either contributes directly to advancing our national position with that nation, or is clearly categorized and prioritized as not, but being done anyway for unique exceptions, but all geared not to ensuring the US supports a given government, but instead the "nation" itself. Governments come and go, and getting too tied to the temp help gets us in trouble.