Staff officers refer to those who provide advice and decision support to commanders in the military. They usually have rich military knowledge and experience. The task of the staff officer is to collect and analyze intelligence information, evaluate strategy and tactics, and provide suggestions for the commander's decision. They can provide various possible action plans and predict possible results and risks according to the current war situation and the commander's intention.
Reference refers to the process of obtaining enlightenment or support by consulting materials or learning from predecessors' experience. When we are faced with a problem or need to make a decision, we can refer to relevant information, experience or professional knowledge to guide our actions. Reference can be books, research reports, expert consultation, historical experience and so on.
In short, a consultant is a person who provides advice and decision support, while reference refers to getting inspiration or support by using information and experience. They play different roles in different backgrounds and scenes.