Instead of downsizing the military, give soldiers who have served the opportunity to keep serving at home. The infrastructure of the United States is badly in need of repair and upgrades. The government owes soldiers more than a "Thank you, goodbye" and we've all seen war after war how "well" veterans are treated when they return home.
Why not give these returning soldiers the chance to keep working in a branch of the armed forces designed to make sure our infrastructure is intact. It would increase safety (all those bridges that are a danger), promote economic growth (a stronger infrastructure means better trade across the nation), and ensure that the troops remain taken care of after their service abroad.