History can provide valuable insight into how future American forces can avoid finding themselves unprepared to fight and win in a conflict's opening stages. There are numerous examples of American forces performing poorly in the opening battles of many U.S. wars. The lack of proper training and equipment are often the cause of these defeats. The Battle of Kasserine Pass during World War II and Task Force Smith in Korea are two U.S. battles that clearly illustrate these failures. Soldiers who heed the lessons these battles teach will better understand the importance of aggressive training and the necessity of effective, available weapons systems.

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