Terry had given Custer command of the 7th CAV and sent Custer on a reconnaissance and pursuit mission. That is, Custer's orders were to locate and maintain situational awareness of the Indian encampment. While patrolling with the CAV, Custer believed that Indian scouts had discovered his forces and that he had lost the element of surprise. He took a small detachment of his forces and chose to engage the Indians, hoping that MAJ Reno and CPT Benteen would be able to come to his aid if he needed reinforcement. Custer also believed that the military capability of his soldiers was immensely superior to that of the Indians and that the CAV would have little difficulty during the battle. Ultimately, Custer divided the small number of troops under his direct command, and they were easily overwhelmed by Indian warriors..