After World War II, the American occupation policy of Germany provided for an "affirmative program of reorientation ... designed completely to eliminate Nazi and militaristic doctrines and to encourage the development of democratic ideas". The American soldiers, as "ambassadors of democracy" became key actors in the reorientation process. The troop information program encouraged servicemen to promote democracy in their informal contacts with Germans. Soldiers and dependents had to display a friendly face of hard power. In 1946, the Army devised a comprehensive program for German youth designed to teach them democratic principles: the Army Assistance to German Youth Activities, (GYA). Sports activities were regarded as an effective tool to reach and influence German children's thinking. Sports also promoted American traditions while serving as a cultural instrument against the growing influence of communism. In the context of occupation and Cold War, members of the U.S. armed forces exerted soft power influence in order to promote the American model of democracy in Germany