Logistics Constant Throughout the Ages

摘要

War often conjures pictures of combat and large armies moving to the field inspired by a clash of political ideologies or ambitions. Indeed, the intriguing twists and nuances of the strong political current sweeping every conflict forward or the intricate strategy and battlefield tactics that vie for positional dominance can hold one's attention to the exclusion of all other aspects of war. Yet, the bulk of a commander's considerations involve the logistical limitations that drive changes to strategy and tactics in order to keep forces supplied and moving. All manner of logistical supplies are necessary to carry on military operations. However, fuel (fodder for animals or petroleum, oil, and lubricants POL) holds a special importance in that its supply has influenced and often dominated strategy as long as nations or states have fielded armies. Transportation of supplies and materiel preceding modem day machines relied on some form of pack animal, principally horses. The horse's need for fodder dictated to the commander the terrain through which he could campaign as well as the campaign seasons.