It is necessary for military professionals to take the time to study military history, as it contributes not only to their personal success, but also to that of the mission at hand . When we understand past failures and their causes, we are able to better determine the necessary actions to take to succeed. Knowledge is also power. The more information an NCO has, the more able he is to make decisions that will allow him and his team to operate safer and more efficiently. By combining past successes and failures with personal experiences, a NCO is better equipped to make quick and effective decisions. When one studies a past battle that has similar characteristics to the current mission, it allows one to decipher what caused the mission to succeed or fail. this battle, allowing them to apply their knowledge to the mission at hand. By studying the Seminole Indian Wars in comparison to Indian Wars, a NCO can clearly see how past failures have provided practical knowledge about what needs to change to succeed in new Indian Wars. During the war with the Seminole Indians, it was clear that the failure of many battles was due to lack of preparation. Means of troop transport were poor and did not allow rapid response to battles. Additionally, even though there was a sufficient stock of supplies for the troops, the troops were unable to obtain these supplies due to transportation problems. “The logistical failure was a failure of transportation, not of supply. The depots were sufficiently stocked; but carts, roads and military maps were lacking. (Stewart, 2005 (1)) Because of this lack of preparation, the troops were set up for failure. Without the necessary supplies, the army could only last so long among the Seminoles... middle of paper ......g this story, the NCO must keep in mind that even if the information of the past will contribute to their success, it is a tool. It is important to remember that every situation is different from the last, in one way or another. Not all circumstances will be the same, so they must rely on personal experience as well as information to make rational decisions that will keep their units safe throughout the mission. Works Cited Stewart, RW (2005(1)). American Military History Volume 1 The United States Army and the Making of a Nation, 1175-1917. Washington, DC: United States Army Center for Military HistoryStewart, RW (2005(2)). American Military History Volume II The United States Military in the Global Age, 1917-2003. Washington, DC: United States Army Center of Military History. Dougherty, E. (November 2005). Warriors for good. The Atlantic Online, p.. 3.