The FOFC Brigate - Chapter 1: Rain and Blood

[DataKing]

THE FOFC BRIGADE

Chapter One: Rain And Blood

Two men sit on bunks opposite one another in a military prison cell. A heated debate rages…

“For the last time, I won the race!” exclaims JeffNights (known to many as Lieutenant Flunky). “I was in the lead when the whole thing went to hell, so that makes me the winner!”

“You’re full of it Flunky,” retorts Lieutenant Superman=#54, “and you know it.”

“Bull!” shouts JeffNights.

“The race didn’t end, it was interrupted! That means nobody won!” Superman=#54 continues. “And the only reason you were winning is because you bumped me! I damn near lost a track!”

JeffNights grins for a moment, but then the reality of the situation seems to settle in, and the smile melts from his face.

“I guess we’re wasting our breath. It doesn’t really matter now, does it?”

“No, I s’pose not,” replies Superman=#54. “But I’m gonna protest. They never told us that tank racing was illegal.”

“Yeah,” JeffNights agrees. “I never figured it would land me in the brig.”

Both men go silent as a MP appears from around the corner, scowling at the two men from the other side of the cell’s bars.

“You two officers have some visitors.”

Both men stand as Captain Coffee Warlord and Captain sachmo71 step around the corner. Superman=#54 gives a sharp salute, while JeffNights rushes forward and grabs the bars in front of Captain Coffee Warlord.

“You’ve come to get me out! Thank you Coffee! Thank God!” JeffNights exclaims. But his look of relief disappears when he sees the steely resolve on the face of his usually-relaxed commanding officer.

Sachmo71 dismisses the MP with a nod, then approaches the bars.

“I think you two have better things to do with your gasoline and your time than race with our tanks. Especially now.”

“Especially now?” both prisoners inquire.

Coffee Warlord takes a deep breath, then speaks.

“Four hours ago, the Japanese attacked our naval forces at Pearl Harbor, gentlemen. You can assume that a state of war exists between us and the Empire of Japan.”

The news strikes home like a thunderbolt in the two men. The thing they had been trained to do, was the very same thing they had all hoped to avoid.

WAR!

Sachmo71 produces a set of keys and unlocks the cell door, swinging it open. Superman=#54 stands and exits the cell, giving his Captain a crisp solute.

“We’ll discuss punishment later, men,” sachmo71 says. “Now it’s time to earn our pay.”

He and Superman=#54 exit the military prison, with Coffee Warlord and JeffNights a few steps behind. Quietly, so no one else can here, Coffee Warlord whispers to JeffNights…

“I don’t care what anybody else says. You won that race.”

[DataKing]

Timeline

December 7th, 1941

Japanese aircraft achieve complete surprise as they attack Pearl Harbor. Within four hours on this Sunday morning, 5 battleships, 2 light cruisers, and 3 destroyers are sunk. 180 aircraft are destroyed on the ground. 2,729 American servicemen are killed, and another 1,178 are wounded. War has finally come to the United States.

December 8th, 1941

The United States declares war on the Empire of Japan.

Japanese aircraft attack Guam and Wake Islands in the central pacific.

The Japanese bomb the U.S. controlled Philippine islands of Luzon and Mindanao from their bases in Formosa.

December 9th, 1941

Japanese troops land on Tarawa and Makin in the Gilbert Islands.

December 10th, 1941

Japanese troops land on and capture Guam.

Japanese troops make landings on the northern tip of Luzon and the island of Camiguin in the Phillipines.

December 11th, 1941

Japanese troops attempt to land on Wake Island, but U.S. Marine gunners and airmen repulse the first landing attempt and sink two Japanese destroyers in the process.

Further Japanese landings take place in the Phillipines.

The now-famous FOFC Brigade, a unit of elite (and some would say unruly) United States Marines is blooded for the first time in combat against the Japanese.

[Coffee Warlord]

*laughs*

Thank GOD this was a lead in into the dynasty, and not a post requesting a command decision. Bunch of friends of mine came down from Chicago, and, well, beer is my friend. Meat grinder would have been a kind term. :)

edit: Oh dear, he's still posting.

[DataKing]

THE FOFC BRIGADE

Chapter One: Rain and Blood

This is the beginning of a new interactive dynasty. It will follow the trials of the FOFC Brigade, a group of United States Marines from December, 1941 all the way to the eventual victory over the Empire of Japan in 1945.

This dynasty uses Steel Panthers: World at War, a turn-based tactical war game produced by Matrix Games. The game is available for free download at the following URL.

www.matrixgames.com


The FOFC Brigade Command Structure

Commanding Officer: Colonel DataKing

Armor Company A
Fire and Ice
Commanding Officer: Captain WSUCougar
-1st Platoon CO: Lieutenant Icjjdnh
-2nd Platoon CO: Lieutenant jfbbis
-3rd Platoon CO: Lieutenant Tasan

Armor Company B
The Broadswords
Commanding Officer: Captain sachmo71
-1st Platoon CO: Lieutenant bertogarce
-2nd Platoon CO: Lieutenant Superman=#54
-3rd Platoon CO: Lieutenant sterlingice

Infantry Company A
Commanding Officer: Captain ardent enthusiast
-1st Platoon CO: Lieutenant samifan24
-2nd Platoon CO: Lieutenant damnMikeBrown
-3rd Platoon CO: Open

Infantry Company B
Commanding Officer: Captain RainRaven
-1st Platoon CO: Lieutenant The Afoci
-2nd Platoon CO: Lieutenant Blade
-3rd Platoon CO: Open

Infantry Company C
Commanding CO: Captain Blade6119
-1st Platoon CO: Lieutenant tucker342
-2nd Platoon CO: Lieutenant Qwikshot
-3rd Platoon CO: Lieutenant Katon

Infantry Company D
The Meat Grinder :D
Commanding Officer: Captain Coffee Warlord
-1st Platoon CO: Lieutenant Breeze (aka Lieutenant Lackey)
-2nd Platoon CO: Lieutenant Aesyrqwe (aka Lieutenant Bootlicker)
-3rd Platoon CO: Lieutenant JeffNights (aka Lieutenant Flunky)

For those of you interested in more detail, here is the Table of Organization and Equipment for the FOFC Brigade, as of December 10th, 1941.

A couple of notes here:

1. There are four experience levels in Steel Panthers: World at War. They are; Green, Regular, Veteran, and Elite.
2. The last column indicates when that specific unit joined the brigade. Obviously, right now they all read 12/41, but that will change as we lose units and receive replacements.

<pre><font face=courier>
THE FOFC BRIGADE

Commanding Officer: Colonel Data King
Date: December 10th, 1941

Brigade Command
Colonel DataKing USMC HQ Veteran 12/41

Armor Company A (Fire and Ice)
Company Command
Captain WSUCougar M3 Stuart Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Phillips M3 Stuart Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Turner M3 Stuart Veteran 12/41
First Platoon
Lieutenant Icjjdnh M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Dobbs M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Bryan M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Butler M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Floyd M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Second Platoon
Lieutenant jfbbis M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Franco M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Killingsworth M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Stimpson M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Smith M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Third Platoon
Lieutenant Tasan M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Wilder M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Guizar M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Perez M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Isaac M3 Stuart Regular 12/41

Armor Company B (The Broadswords)
Company Command
Captain sachmo71 M3 Stuart Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Patton M3 Stuart Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Moffett M3 Stuart Veteran 12/41
First Platoon
Lieutenant bertogarce M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Ginski M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Nettles M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Marsh M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Kirby M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Second Platoon
Lieutenant Superman=#54 M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Gallegos M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Iverson M3 Stuart Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Meredith M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Kramer M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Third Platoon
Lieutenant sterlingice M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Reeves M3 Stuart Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Leonard M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Puller M3 Stuart Regular 12/41
Sergeant Norman M3 Stuart Regular 12/41

Infantry Company A
Company Command
Captain ardent enthusiast USMC Company HQ Veteran 12/41
First Platoon
Lieutenant samifan24 USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Sampsel USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Whisler USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Fernandez USMC Infantry Squad Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Hooper USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Second Platoon
Lieutenant damnMikeBrown USMC Platoon HQ Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Jacobs USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Terry USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Ahrens USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Cantrell USMC BAR Squad Veteran 12/41
Third Platoon
Lieutenant Marino USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Swan USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Amos USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Ishim USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Guitierrez USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Machinegun Section
Lieutenant O’Hern .30 Cal MMG Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Mizerak .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Sergeant Oliver .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Mortar Section
Lieutenant Silva M2 60mm Mortar (x2) Regular 12/41

Infantry Company B
Company Command
Captain RainRaven USMC Company HQ Veteran 12/41
First Platoon
Lieutenant The Afoci USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Udell USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Henderson USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Babers USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Donovan USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Second Platoon
Lieutenant Blade USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Kelly USMC Infantry Squad Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Diaz USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Ferguson USMC Infantry Squad Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Dale USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Third Platoon
Lieutenant Jennings USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Edwards USMC Infantry Squad Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Lewis USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Quick USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Radford USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Machinegun Section
Lieutenant Ortega .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Sergeant Kirk .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Sergeant Usher .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Mortar Section
Lieutenant Sprague M2 60mm Mortar (x2) Veteran 12/41

Infantry Company C
Company Command
Captain Blade6119 USMC Company HQ Veteran 12/41
First Platoon
Lieutenant tucker342 USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Emerson USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Collins USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Williams USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Winslow USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Second Platoon
Lieutenant Qwikshot USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Huck USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Easter USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Flemming USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Nicholas USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Third Platoon
Lieutenant Katon USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Davie USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Glussich USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Davenport USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Owens USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Machinegun Section
Lieutenant Gates .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Sergeant Palmer .30 Cal MMG Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Nino .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Mortar Section
Lieutenant Jackson M2 60mm Mortar (x2) Regular 12/41

Infantry Company D (The Meat Grinder)
Company Command
Captain Coffee Warlord USMC Company HQ Veteran 12/41
First Platoon
Lieutenant Breeze USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Killingsworth USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Edwards USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Nino USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Oliver USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Second Platoon
Lieutenant Aesyrqwe USMC Platoon HQ Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Hooper USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Edwards USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Chapman USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Marino USMC BAR Squad Veteran 12/41
Third Platoon
Lieutenant JeffNights USMC Platoon HQ Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Smith USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Owens USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Huck USMC Infantry Squad Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Kramer USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Machinegun Section
Lieutenant Easter .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Sergeant Udell .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Sergeant Iverson .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Mortar Section
Lieutenant Ellis M2 60mm Mortar (x2) Veteran 12/41

Mortar Company
First Platoon
Lieutenant Dobbs M1 81mm Mortar Regular 12/41
Sergeant Cantrell M1 81mm Mortar Veteran 12/41
Second Platoon
Lieutenant Davenport M1 81mm Mortar Regular 12/41
Sergeant Mayer M1 81mm Mortar Regular 12/41
Third Platoon
Lieutenant Collins M1 81mm Mortar Regular 12/41
Sergeant Kramer M1 81mm Mortar Veteran 12/41
Fourth Platoon
Lieutenant Russell M1 81mm Mortar Regular 12/41
Sergeant Patton M1 81mm Mortar Regular 12/41
</pre></font>

Colonel DataKing was just called to a staff meeting with the General, to discuss the situation here on Luzon. Expect a SitRep and orders shortly.

Semper Fi!

[DataKing]

Mission Briefing

Okay boys, here’s the situation.

As I’m sure you are aware, the Japanese started landing troops on the northern tip of this island, Luzon, yesterday. More of the bastards are setting foot on dry land every hour, and there’s precious little that the navy or the flyboys can do about it right now.

Those that landed yesterday are already moving inland. Fighting has been sporadic so far, but we need to give our comrades-in-arms some extra time to prepare defenses and the like. That’s where we come in.

We’ve been ordered to conduct a delaying action against the Japanese forward units. Our specific combat zone is an indistinguishable patch of jungle, three kilometers wide. I’m told that there’s precious little in the way of open or high ground out there, although we will have a couple of small hills at our backs. The vegetation is pretty thick, so visibility will be at a minimum.

To make matters even worse, we’ve got bad weather coming in. It’s supposed to start raining buckets here in a couple of hours, so you can expect what little visibility we were going to get to be even worse.

I’ve divided our combat line into four zones. Each of the infantry companies will be responsible for one of these zones, with the armored boys providing close fire support.

Zone One

Assigned to Infantry Company B (CO: Captain RainRaven)

Zone one is on the far west of our combat zone, and is an 800 meter wide patch of land that is flat as a washboard. It’s even more heavily wooded than the rest of the area, so visibility will be an extreme issue here. We don’t expect a lot of enemy activity in this area, but to leave it vacant would be to expose our left flank to the enemy.

Zone Two

Assigned to Infantry Company D (CO: Captain Coffee Warlord)

Zone two is in the west-central area of our combat zone, and while the trees are a little thinner than they are in zone one, it isn’t by much. This area is only 500 meters wide, but we expect to encounter significant enemy forces in this area, as there is a nice “corridor” of open space between the trees that runs through this entire area. Certain members of The Meat Grinder seem like they need more excitement in their lives, so it is D Company’s responsibility to occupy this zone.

Zone Three

Assigned to Infantry Company C (CO: Captain Blade6119)

The trees open up in spots in zone three, which is in the east-central area of our assigned combat zone. There is a little bit of high ground to be taken advantage of, and some small clearings which can provide nice killing ground. This area is big though, at nearly a kilometer wide (900 meters to be exact). We don’t expect a major thrust by the Japanese here, but have to guard against one. A penetration here could spell disaster for Zone Two to the west or Zone Four to the east.

Zone Four

Assigned to Infantry Company A (CO: Captain ardent enthusiast)

Zone Four is at the far eastern edge of our combat zone, and is about 750 meters wide. It is easily the most defensible of the four combat zones, because the tree line ends abruptly at the edge of an old graveyard and a rice paddy right next door. Both of these areas can provide some nice killing ground if utilized properly. Despite this, there is the distinct possibility of the Japanese making a heavy push in this area.


Armored Companies

Given the lousy visibility we’re likely to face, and the lack of open ground, I’d like to see the armor act as close support for the infantry. Captain sachmo71, I’d like The Broadswords to support The Meat Grinder, as well as Infantry B on our left flank. WSUCougar, use Fire and Ice to support Infantry C and Infantry A on the right side. I leave the rest up to you on how best to accomplish this.

Support Units

Each infantry company has control over one of the 81mm mortar platoons, but I maintain the ability to override this if one company is under particularly heavy attack.

We have a pair of light infantry platoons watching our back-side, but I would rather not call them up to the front line unless absolutely necessary.

We have 10 light machinegun teams to provide additional fire support on the front line. We also have a pair of jeeps and a pair of ammunition trucks. I will handle these units.

24 75mm Howitzers are on call a couple of klicks behind us, but remember that these guns are anything but reliable. Radio communication isn’t that good in 1941, and these units could be called to provide fire support for another unit at any time. Don’t rely on them.

Company Commanders

Try to keep your orders to your platoon lieutenants as general as possible, and let them handle the specific deployment of their units. Company commanders have direct control over their “personal” units (3 tank command section for armor, command squads for infantry). Infantry captains also have direct control over their machinegun and mortar sections.

Notes

I would like to handle deployment and run the first couple of turns on Saturday evening, so try to give me your orders before then. And of course, let me know if you have any questions.

Remember folks, this is a “delay” mission, and not a “stop them dead in their tracks no matter what the cost” mission. We can give ground if need be, but we must do so slowly, and we must make the enemy pay for every yard they take with blood.

Semper Fi!

[Tasan]

Am I the only one thinking we are going to need a little direction here?

[Poli]

No, I need a little guidance as well.

[DataKing]

Okay, it sounds like a little guidance is in order here. Let me see if I can help matters some...

I don't want to get into the nitty-gritty details of how the game works, its mechanics, and things like that. You give orders for the troops you have at your disposal, and I will carry out those orders within the game as best I can.

Here is an example:

Ardent Enthusiast has command of Infantry Company A, which is responsible for zone four. I mentioned that the tree line comes to an end at an old graveyard and a rice paddy right next to it. Ardent might give the following orders.

"samifan24, I'd like your platoon to set up at the edge of the treeline facing the graveyard. damnMikeBrown, set up second platoon at the edge of the tree line to cover the rice paddy. Third platoon will be spread out just behind these two platoons, to act as a local reserve. My machinegun platoon will be dispersed through samifan24 and damnMikeBrown's platoons to provide fire support for the infantry. And since I'm such a tough guy, I'm going to place my headquarters platoon right between the two forward infantry platoons."

I look at this kind of like a role-playing game of sorts. You tell me what you want the units at your disposal to do, and I will report on what happens as the battle progresses.

Tasan, as an armor platoon commander, you have five tanks at your disposal. You will probably want to hear from your captain, WSUCougar first, to find out what he would like you to do. But the specifics are up to you. He might tell you to provide close fire support for one of the infantry platoons. Then your orders might be...

"We'll set up in a staggered line just behind the infantry line we're supposed to support. My tank will be in the middle, with two tanks on either side of mine. Once contact is made with the enemy, we will move forward to the infantry line and open fire."

Also, feel free to put as much or as little into this as you want. For those of you that want to give detailed orders, I will follow them as closely as the game will allow. If you don't want to give orders regularly, that's fine too. I will handle running your units and will report as to their activity.

If the whole thing feels strange, then by all means, just sit back and observe for a little while. Perhaps when things are a little more familiar, you will be more comfortable issuing orders.

I hope this helps to clarify things a bit. Use your imagination, and I will do my best to answer any questions you might have.

Let me know if more clarification is needed.

Also, feel free

[Poli]

Roger. Do you want that posted here or in PM?

[DataKing]

Posting orders here is fine with me. I don't mind the "clutter," and it might give some other commanders good ideas if they can read the orders others give.

Also, I edited my previous post regarding clarification and guidance. Give it another look everyone, if you haven't already.

Don't let this thing become a burden, or feel like you "have" to post orders regularly.

[lcjjdnh]

Also, do you have a map you could post for us?

[sachmo71]

Ok Broadsword, listen up.

I would like 1st Platoon to dig in with B Company. Try to get into a spot with as much visibility as possible, because your only advantage is to blast those creeps to smitherens before they reach you. Load up on machine gun ammo and AP rounds. I don't expect the enemy to have much in the way of armor support. That's not how they work. You are to consider yourself under Captain RainRaven's command. When he says "bug out", you bug. Get to the egress point and get the hell out. The only exception to this would be on direct orders from me.

Everyone else, we will support the Meat Grinder. I'll defer to Captain Coffee Wardad on how he thinks it would be best to deploy the tanks to support his infantry, but again, the more visibility, the better. HQ section will line up with everyone else. Be ready to move to a trouble spot at a moments notice. If the enemy hits us where we aren't expecting, then we might have to move out in a hurry. Before they get here, I want everyone clearing paths between the positions and marking them. Be sure you know your area of responsiblity, and have your firing lines marked out. The low visibility really puts us at a disadvantage. Support each other. Be ready to "scratch someone's back" if some Japanese get behind them. Above all, remember that we are here to slow them down, not make our last stand. When I give the signal, move out in an orderly but expeditious fashion.

If there aren't any questions, let's get going. Good luck to everyone, and stay safe.

Dismissed.

[The Afoci]

Good Luck Boys!

[Superman=#54]

Well I am waiting on Warlord for my orders then. The Meat Grinder will see firsthand how useful armor can be.

[Coffee Warlord]

Heh. Heh. Heh. Orders coming soon.

[Katon]

Is it too late to sign up for one of the free infantry platoons?

[Coffee Warlord]

Alright boys, here's the plan.

I'll take my unit and the mortar team, and set up a firing position to pound that corridor to hell and back. I've heard we've got armor support for once, so I'll want a couple units of tanks with my mortar team. When I give the word, fire your big guns at will. Save your rifle ammo for now. Our goal is to scatter them into the woods. Turn that damn field into a pile of smoldering rock.

Lt Lackey, take your platoon, find a comfortable spot on our left flank, and dig in. You'll be guarding that flank and also taking down any enemy who tries to escape our center line wall of death.

Lt Bootlicker, same orders, right side. I'm sending my machine gun unit to you, under your command. I've got a feeling you'll need them.

Lt Flunky, we've got a small area to control. You will be our roving reserve. Keep an eye on our rear and our flanks, and once we have enemy contact, take your unit where you think they are needed.

Extra armor not assigned to the center, support my left and right flanks. Find yourselves a decent firing position, and dig in with the real marines.

Semper Fi!

By the by, gentlemen. Failure to hold your side means you lose your stake in the company lottery. Retreating means I cancel the strippers.

[Poli]

Originally posted by DataKing
Mission Briefing

Zone Four

Assigned to Infantry Company A (CO: Captain ardent enthusiast)

Zone Four is at the far eastern edge of our combat zone, and is about 750 meters wide. It is easily the most defensible of the four combat zones, because the tree line ends abruptly at the edge of an old graveyard and a rice paddy right next door. Both of these areas can provide some nice killing ground if utilized properly. Despite this, there is the distinct possibility of the Japanese making a heavy push in this area.

Semper Fi!


LT Samifan, LT DMBrown, LT Marino, LT O'Hern, LT Silva. We have orders to delay the enemy. We'll show the enemy what Alpha Company is made up of. We will take our positions and we will dominate our enemy. They will run in fear and tell their countrymen of the day they met us.

I have been ordered to deploy your troops across Zone 4, along the eastern edge. This is prime killing ground, Marines, and we should be able to send many of the enemy to their makers.

LT O'Hern, I want you to place your Marines facing the rice paddy, under the cover of the tree line. Take whatever cover you can. Shoot whatever moves.

LT Samifan, take your Marines and post them around the tree line facing the paddy as well. Provide support for O'Hern and help keep the flack of his Marines.

From what I can tell of the terrain, that paddy is our flank. Do not allow us to be outflanked. Hold your position unless told otherwise.

LT DMBrown, LT Marino, I want both of you set at strategic positions facing the graveyard. Spread out to cover LT Samifan's position, but make sure that you're not too thin. With two platoons, I doubt this happens. Your Marines should be ready for a push here. I am sure you could imagine that they'll try to take cover behind some gravesites, so I'm going to have LT Silva and his Marines provide mortar support for the graveyard area.

As for my Marines, we'll be stationed somewhat in between the the paddy and the graveyard, ready to provide support.

Marines, I can't stress how much we need to hold here until we are ordered otherwise. Position your troops as you see fit within the areas of combat I have assigned to you. We can not allow the enemy to flank us. We are Marines. We will not allow the enemy to defeat us. We will defeat them. Do I make myself clear? Dismissed.

[Blade]

"Captain RainRaven, this is Lt. Blade, awaiting orders, sir."

[Superman=#54]

I will cover the right flank with Lt. Bootlicker. Spread my tanks out I do not want them close together. Fire at will use the machineguns more if possible. I will save the big guns for later.:D

edit: On second thought use everything this platton has we will blow them to hell.

[Blade6119]

Infantry Company C
Company Command
Captain Blade6119 USMC Company HQ Veteran 12/41
First Platoon
Lieutenant tucker342 USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Emerson USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Collins USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Williams USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Winslow USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Second Platoon
Lieutenant Qwikshot USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Huck USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Easter USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Flemming USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Nicholas USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Third Platoon
Lieutenant Chapman USMC Platoon HQ Regular 12/41
Sergeant Davie USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Glussich USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Davenport USMC Infantry Squad Regular 12/41
Sergeant Owens USMC BAR Squad Regular 12/41
Machinegun Section
Lieutenant Gates .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Sergeant Palmer .30 Cal MMG Veteran 12/41
Sergeant Nino .30 Cal MMG Regular 12/41
Mortar Section
Lieutenant Jackson M2 60mm Mortar (x2) Regular 12/41

Zone Three

Assigned to Infantry Company C (CO: Captain Blade6119)

The trees open up in spots in zone three, which is in the east-central area of our assigned combat zone. There is a little bit of high ground to be taken advantage of, and some small clearings which can provide nice killing ground. This area is big though, at nearly a kilometer wide (900 meters to be exact). We don’t expect a major thrust by the Japanese here, but have to guard against one. A penetration here could spell disaster for Zone Two to the west or Zone Four to the east.

Lieutenant tucker342, id like you to take first platoon and take the left flank...if there are any clearings or high ground, use them how you see fit.

Lieutenant Qwikshot, id like you to man our center, and the same goes for you with your deployment...do what you see fit, but keep an eye out for clearings or high ground.....we gotta kill all the jap bastards. There will be no retreat until ordered by me or Dataking. If you see it fit to give a little ground to save men, fine...but there will be no retreat against these japs until required.

Lieutenant Chapman, take up our right flank with your platoon and give them hell. Move for some clearings, and make them pay for touchin American soil.

Lieutenant Gates, you will stay back with my Command platoon and we will go wherever the enemy comes at us.

Lieutenant Jackson, you will take the best vantage point available to you so that you can best support our men. The placement is up to you(meaning Data's decision).

Try to keep as straight a line as possible with the other platoons, but placemnet is the key to victroy. Carry our these orders as you see fit. I know i have the best damn officers in the army, and know you will not let me down.

Lieutenants, you have your orders so move out and earn your stripes. If you die, you shall die fighting for the men and country. The third company will be the anchor of this army, and we wil prevail!!!

[Coffee Warlord]

Hey DK, do you know if the campaigns in this game are linear (ie, the same line of missions every time)?

I wanna try the game out, but I don't wanna cheat and have advance knowledge of tactics to use. If it's a linear progression, I'll just stay in Europe. :)

[sachmo71]

The missions are totally random.

[Poli]

Originally posted by Blade6119
The third company will be the anchor of this army, and we wil prevail!!!

ARMY???

[Qwikshot]

Originally posted by Blade6119
Zone Three

Assigned to Infantry Company C (CO: Captain Blade6119)

The trees open up in spots in zone three, which is in the east-central area of our assigned combat zone. There is a little bit of high ground to be taken advantage of, and some small clearings which can provide nice killing ground. This area is big though, at nearly a kilometer wide (900 meters to be exact). We don’t expect a major thrust by the Japanese here, but have to guard against one. A penetration here could spell disaster for Zone Two to the west or Zone Four to the east.

Lieutenant tucker342, id like you to take first platoon and take the left flank...if there are any clearings or high ground, use them how you see fit.

Lieutenant Qwikshot, id like you to man our center, and the same goes for you with your deployment...do what you see fit, but keep an eye out for clearings or high ground.....we gotta kill all the jap bastards. There will be no retreat until ordered by me or Dataking. If you see it fit to give a little ground to save men, fine...but there will be no retreat against these japs until required.

Lieutenant Chapman, take up our right flank with your platoon and give them hell. Move for some clearings, and make them pay for touchin American soil.

Lieutenant Gates, you will stay back with my Command platoon and we will go wherever the enemy comes at us.

Lieutenant Jackson, you will take the best vantage point available to you so that you can best support our men. The placement is up to you(meaning Data's decision).

Try to keep as straight a line as possible with the other platoons, but placemnet is the key to victroy. Carry our these orders as you see fit. I know i have the best damn officers in the army, and know you will not let me down.

Lieutenants, you have your orders so move out and earn your stripes. If you die, you shall die fighting for the men and country. The third company will be the anchor of this army, and we wil prevail!!!

Affirmative on the orders, we'll dig in and hold.
With all due respect sir, can we get the Machinegunners to set up some kill zones or suppression fire...at the center point.

[Coffee Warlord]

<i>Meanwhile, in the HQ Tent of the Meat Grinder...</i>

Private Toadie, send copies of this message to Captains RainRaven and Blade. Inform them that our east flank is heavily protected with our machine gun units, and our west flank is lightly armed. Tell them to deploy their troops with that in mind.

Oh, and tell Captain Blade that a man under his command by the name of Sargeant Davenport owes me 50 bucks from last night's craps game.

[Blade6119]

Originally posted by Qwikshot
Affirmative on the orders, we'll dig in and hold.
With all due respect sir, can we get the Machinegunners to set up some kill zones or suppression fire...at the center point.

Roger, im am hereby ordering Lieutenant Gates and his men to move forward and deploy with Lieutenant Qwikshot. I tust you will deploy them well, but make sure you understand if other platoons are hit harder and their help is required, i will expect you to send help. Are my orders clear lieutenant?:mad:

lol.....just try to use them well....sounds like coffee's boys are gonna get the worst of it. I will still stay back as the "reserve force," coming in to help anywhere it is required.

Data=Since my zone borders that of Coffee Warlord, if we are recieving light pressure and coffee is gettin smashed, is it possible for me to send help?

[Coffee Warlord]

The Meat Grinder does not get smashed. Aside from when we're drinking. :)

[Poli]

Since sprite and sierra mist wasn't around, I wonder what I would have been drinking...:)

[Blade6119]

Originally posted by Coffee Warlord
<i>Meanwhile, in the HQ Tent of the Meat Grinder...</i>

Private Toadie, send copies of this message to Captains RainRaven and Blade. Inform them that our east flank is heavily protected with our machine gun units, and our west flank is lightly armed. Tell them to deploy their troops with that in mind.

Oh, and tell Captain Blade that a man under his command by the name of Sargeant Davenport owes me 50 bucks from last night's craps game.

Private Quiksand:Sir....what should i do....*trembles at the enormous figure in fron of him*

Captain Blade6119:What did you say?!!! Are you talking back to me???

Private Quiksand:n n n nooo sirr...

Captain Blade6119:grrrr....ok....go get me Sargeant Davenport you little worm...

*Private Quiksand quickly exits*

Sargeant Davenport:Reporting for duty sir!

*Gets knocked to the floor by a right hook from the captain*

Blade6119:You disgust me....losing at craps....to Coffee Warlord at that. You just earned yourself the prestigous position of point man on a 1-person suicide attack...dont come back until the japs have surrendered or you are dead!!

*Sargeant Davenport leaves camp only to hide in a tree awaiting the japanese surrender*;)

Sargeant Davenport:god....i hope coffee dies....i dont have the $50...i was gambling with the money i stole from him...that fat bastard....always eating :D

[Qwikshot]

Originally posted by Blade6119
Roger, im am hereby ordering Lieutenant Gates and his men to move forward and deploy with Lieutenant Qwikshot. I tust you will deploy them well, but make sure you understand if other platoons are hit harder and their help is required, i will expect you to send help. Are my orders clear lieutenant?:mad:

lol.....just try to use them well....sounds like coffee's boys are gonna get the worst of it. I will still stay back as the "reserve force," coming in to help anywhere it is required.

Data=Since my zone borders that of Coffee Warlord, if we are recieving light pressure and coffee is gettin smashed, is it possible for me to send help?

I need to know if I'm up on high ground, if I'm on flat ground, trees, etc...I would like to keep the MG'rs in positions to best provide an ambush in all directions.

Also, will I be able to see the other platoons from this vantage point?

I'd prefer to make the center point the object of the enemy's attention, so that other platoons can pick off targets...

Can we split up the entire MG team, does each man have their own MG? It would be nice just to have one, and give the other two back to Capt Blade6119.

[Coffee Warlord]

Originally posted by Blade6119
Sargeant Davenport:god....i hope coffee dies....i dont have the $50...i was gambling with the money i stole from him...that fat bastard....always eating :D

Private Toadie: "Sir, I believe I heard Sargeant Davenport whispering something about you being fat and stealing some money from you."

Captain Warlord: "Well, sure I could stand to lose a few pound...WHAT?!!? He stole MY money?!!?"

Toadie: "Um....I think so, sir."

Warlord: "That's it. Find me Corporal Fat Tony and PFC Bruno. Tell them to bring their beating sticks."

[jfbbis]

How much rounds do the Stuart carry ?

[sachmo71]

Originally posted by jfbbis
How much rounds do the Stuart carry ?

We have an ammo truck, so that shouldn't matter. Besides, if we are still around when you run out of main gun ammo, then something has gone horribly wrong for the Japanese. :)

[Aesyrqwe]

Originally posted by Coffee Warlord

Lt Bootlicker, same orders, right side. I'm sending my machine gun unit to you, under your command. I've got a feeling you'll need them.


Roger that sir. I'll have my boys dig in and get ready. We'll coserve our ammo until we can get a clear read of exactly where the japs are comin from. Until my unit is able to see them we will rely on Superman=#54's tanks to shell them and scatter them throughout the brush. If were lucky we'll get a few confused japs to run right out and into our hail of gunfire. Until then we will lie low and wait...

Edit: Im going to be a little more specific on my orders. I want the .30 cals placed about 50-75 yards behind the front of our line. They will provide adequate cover from that position. I want Lt. Easter in the center with Sgt. Udell on the left flank and Sgt Iverson on the right. They will deploy there and cover our asses if we need to fall back.

[WSUCougar]

Armor Company A
Fire and Ice
Commanding Officer: Captain WSUCougar
-1st Platoon CO: Lieutenant Icjjdnh
-2nd Platoon CO: Lieutenant jfbbis
-3rd Platoon CO: Lieutenant Tasan

Company Mission Briefing:

“Alright, gentlemen. We’ve got a sticky situation facing us, but that’s what Marines are for, remember? It’s our battalion’s job to throw a wrench in the Japanese advance, and it’s our company’s job to anchor the right side of our position and support the grunts in the fox holes. That means close fire support, gentlemen.

Lt. Icjjdnh, I want you on the right flank in support of infantry Company A. That open ground around the graveyard seems to have some nice firing lanes. Deploy a bit back from the infantry, and try to hold your positions without overreacting to the enemy’s advance. I imagine the Japs will come hot and heavy, and eventually come to you, so no need to get our tanks in hot water by over-committing. Understood?

Lt. Tasan, find some good positions on the high ground in Zone 3. I imagine you won’t stay there (be flexible as needed), but it makes for a good opening deployment.

Lt. jfbbis, you’ll be in reserve initially. Deploy in Zone 3 in a decent spot to react to anything in that zone, as well as 2 or 4. I may need to detach you to Zone 2, so be ready for that type of movement.

I will deploy my tanks in Zone 4, near the edge of Zone 3.

Defer to the infantry company commanders as needed, but be careful not to overcommit! The Japs may not have armor of their own, but make no mistake, they are a legitimate opponent. Stay cool under pressure, and dish it out hot. Fire & Ice, gentlemen.

That is all.”

[lcjjdnh]

Originally posted by WSUCougar

Lt. Icjjdnh, I want you on the right flank in support of infantry Company A. That open ground around the graveyard seems to have some nice firing lanes. Deploy a bit back from the infantry, and try to hold your positions without overreacting to the enemy’s advance. I imagine the Japs will come hot and heavy, and eventually come to you, so no need to get our tanks in hot water by over-committing. Understood?

Roger that, these commands are fine with me.

[RainRaven]

"Okay boys... lock and load. Lt. Afoci and Blade I will make this nice and simple... this is a heavily wooded area and we have roughly 800 yards of ground to cover and this ain't no football game. Basically you two will cover half of each ground with Lt. Jennings serving as a local backup behind you two... If you are recieving particularly heavy fire I may commit them to your area but I do not intend to turn this into a bloodbath my friends understand? We delay and move. My unit will deploy in back of Jennings and will commit as needed.. I leave any other specfics to you and will take all suggestions.. good luck men"

[DataKing]

Excellent stuff all-around boys. You guys are taking to this just like...well...like Marines. :D

I believe I have a few questions to answer...

Icjjdnh: I don't think the game supports screenshots, so a map may prove difficult. I'll horse around with it, though. If I can figure something out, I'll be sure to post a map for you all.

Katon: Since I you got your request in before the battle has started, finding a spot for you should be no problem. Do you have any specific company in mind? We have openings in Infantry A (ardent enthusiast), Infantry B (RainRaven), and Infantry C (Blade6119).

Coffee Warlord: sachmo has it right, the missions are totally random. The "World War II Campaign" option is what I am running. The computer generates random battles, so you won't be spoiling yourself with anything by playing.

Blade6119: Supporting Coffee Warlord if The Meat Grinder is getting hit hard is certainly possible. You'll just need to let me know how you want to accomplish it, should it come up. We aren't locked into specific fortified positions. In fact, we don't have time for any fortifications other than foxholes.

jfbbis: I wouldn't worry about ammunition too much. The Stuart carries a good amount (mostly because of the small caliber of the 37mm). The infantry will probably run out of ammo before you armored boys do. And like sachmo says, we've got a couple of ammo trucks available if it becomes necessary.

Qwikshot: You're dealing mostly with flat wooded ground, with a couple of small raised points to use, but not much. Also, the visibility is so poor that you are unlikely to be able to see platoons other than your own, no matter where you station yourself.

Also, regarding the MGs. We'll deploy one of them in the center of your unit, with the other two at the edges, so they are in position to support your neighbors if necessary and possible.


It looks like all of our company commanders, and some of our lieutenants have now given their orders. In the interest of moving things along, I will now handle deployment. I will check back here before the first turn, however.

[Tasan]

Originally posted by WSUCougar
Armor Company A
Fire and Ice
-3rd Platoon CO: Lieutenant Tasan

Lt. Tasan, find some good positions on the high ground in Zone 3. I imagine you won’t stay there (be flexible as needed), but it makes for a good opening deployment.


Aye Sir!

Platoon, advance to sector 3. Find cover on the high ground just to the rear of that infantry platoon and be prepared to offer fire support on command! Keeps those engines cranked as we may have to move to cover breakouts in other sectors, and we'll be falling back soon to cover the retreat.

[Tasan]

Question, will individual tanks in my platoon be able to be arranged? or do I not need to bother with giving them orders as they'll be part of my "game marker" and indistinguishable from me?

[Blade]

Originally posted by RainRaven
"Okay boys... lock and load. Lt. Afoci and Blade I will make this nice and simple... this is a heavily wooded area and we have roughly 800 yards of ground to cover and this ain't no football game. Basically you two will cover half of each ground with Lt. Jennings serving as a local backup behind you two... If you are recieving particularly heavy fire I may commit them to your area but I do not intend to turn this into a bloodbath my friends understand? We delay and move. My unit will deploy in back of Jennings and will commit as needed.. I leave any other specfics to you and will take all suggestions.. good luck men"

Yes Sir! We will take the Left half of the ground.

Men, let's move! Find cover, keep each man of the unit in sight, and keep an eye out for enemy movement!

[DataKing]

Originally posted by Tasan
Question, will individual tanks in my platoon be able to be arranged? or do I not need to bother with giving them orders as they'll be part of my "game marker" and indistinguishable from me?

The individual tanks within your unit can be arranged, but don't feel obligated to get any more detailed than you feel is necessary. I have you set up for close fire support, just to the rear of the previously-mentioned infantry platoon, and you're ready to move elsewhere if need be.

[DataKing]

Deployment is now set, no more deployment orders will be taken.

For those of you who didn't give them, don't fret. I didn't leave any of you high-and-dry, and made sure you're fitting in with what your company commanders asked for.

And so the battle begins...

Semper Fi!

[Blade6119]

Semper Fi!

i'm ready for battle, as my looooooonnnnngggggg download is finally up and i shall go play some battles and get a better idea of how this plays out. Bring the battle soon...please!!!!

[sterlingice]

Everyone else, we will support the Meat Grinder. I'll defer to Captain Coffee Wardad on how he thinks it would be best to deploy the tanks to support his infantry, but again, the more visibility, the better.


I'll take my unit and the mortar team, and set up a firing position to pound that corridor to hell and back. I've heard we've got armor support for once, so I'll want a couple units of tanks with my mortar team. When I give the word, fire your big guns at will. Save your rifle ammo for now. Our goal is to scatter them into the woods. Turn that damn field into a pile of smoldering rock.

...

Extra armor not assigned to the center, support my left and right flanks. Find yourselves a decent firing position, and dig in with the real marines.


Sachmo71 sent us to be yours to command, Coffee, Sir. We will take the flanks or the middle at your command. My men aren't the brightest group out here but we sure as hell know how to follow orders. Just tell us where to shoot from and where to shoot at and we'll take care of the rest.

(Pardon my ignorance, but for an armored platoon like, say, Company B Platoon 3, do we have 5 tanks- each with an officer or what is the deal? I'm not much of a war guy so this group is mainly going to be the "point where to shoot and we'll shoot it" group)

SI

[Katon]

I think I'll join Infantry C.

[Coffee Warlord]

Minor change of orders.

Sterlingice and Sachmo, your tanks take position with me. Sachmo, I'm leaving my left flank without armor support, so be ready to disperse your tanks thataway if need be.

Until then, however, unleash hell right down the pipe.

(sorry Breeze, out of tanks to send you. 'sides, I have a gut feeling the main action is gonna be on the other side)

[DataKing]

Umm guys...please notice my earlieir post, stating that deployment orders are over with...a number of turns have already been played.

Katon, 3rd Infantry C Company is yours. You report directly to Captain Blade6119.

[sachmo71]

Originally posted by DataKing
Umm guys...please notice my earlieir post, stating that deployment orders are over with...a number of turns have already been played.

Tason, 3rd Infantry C Company is yours. You report directly to Captain Blade6119.

:eek:

[Tasan]

um would that be Katon for 3rd inf, c company?

[Blade6119]

Originally posted by DataKing
Tason, 3rd Infantry C Company is yours. You report directly to Captain Blade6119.

If im not mistaken, it is Katon joining my company, as Tason already fights for WSU Cougar....besides, someone of a talent-lacking ARMOR company could never handle the rigors of fighting with real men like the boys of the Third Company!!!:D :D :D

[DataKing]

Oh yeah, my bad. Sorry boys, I'm a little under the weather today. :p

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Phillipines

December 11th, 1941 – 1800 Hours

The men of the FOFC Brigade arrive at their appointed positions, and begin to dig in as best they can. The volume of rain has been steadily increasing over the past couple of hours, and by now is a steady downpour, making the digging of foxholes extremely difficult. The Marines begin to use fallen trees, brush, and just about anything else they can find to use for cover and protection against the coming Japanese.

Time seems to fly by as preparations are made, but then slows to a crawl once the defenses are set. Five minutes pass, then ten, then fifteen, and still no sign of the enemy. Where the hell are the Japanese? Wary Marines peer out from their makeshift defenses, trying to pierce the thick foliage and heavy rain for any sign of the enemy. Visibility is reduced to 100 meters, less in areas of thick tree cover. One thing is for certain. By the time the enemy is spotted, they will be well within lethal range for both sides.

18:21 Hours

Contact!

Contact is made with the enemy, and the staccato cracks of rifle and machinegun fire erupt at four different points on the line.

Marines from Lieutenant The Afoci’s Infantry B, 1st Platoon, spot a squad of Japanese infantry moving through the woods. Brief fire is exchanged, before the enemy retreats back into the woods.

Similar probing efforts are encountered in two different spots in Zone B. The very western edge of Captain Coffee Warlord’s lines, as well as “the corridor” in the middle, both see brief firefights with the Japanese, but the enemy is forced back.

A squad of Japanese is also seen in Zone Four, working their way up at the edge of the graveyard and the rice paddy. Rifle and machinegun fire erupts, cutting into the Japanese troops and felling a number of them. Unlike other spots, the enemy returns fire, and directs it at Captain ardent enthusiast’s company command squad. The Captain drops his head below a felled tree just as bullets zip overhead, but a fellow Marine is not so lucky. One round catches the young man just below the cheekbone. The lad spins to the ground, killed instantly.


Orders

So far we’ve only encountered weak probing efforts at four different points on our line. Normally, I wouldn’t pause here for new orders. But the reason I am doing it is because Captain ardent enthusiast’s command squad is under direct fire from the Japanese.

Captain ardent enthusiast, what will you do about the situation? With help from one of Lieutenant samifan24’s squads at the eastern edge of the rice paddy, you have the Japanese squad pinned down, but you are receiving direct fire.

Semper Fi!

[sachmo71]

Give 'em a little Fire and Ice! Whoot!

[Poli]

Without knowing the lay of the land, I'd like to use the LT Samifan's eastern squad and pump them with some lead. If that creates a diversion, I'd like for my squad to fall back to a more favorable defensive position. If that's not possible I'd like to create a crossfire. That should quiet their rifles down.

Semper Fi! I can't believe I just typed that.

[Coffee Warlord]

*waits for the news that ardent was thrown off the boat* :)

[Poli]

I'm not used to being fired upon. Maybe that's it. You know the Navy policy. Fire a missile, launch the planes. Have a coke, watch the news and smile :).

[Coffee Warlord]

Don't forget drop the grunts off at the shore. :)

[Poli]

I'm on a carrier. We don't carry grunts. Too bad, though, they're easier to make fun of than sailors.

No offense to my simulated Marine comrades.:)

[sachmo71]

What do you do on the carrier, Ardent?

[Blade6119]

1 plane....2 plane...3 plane....uhhh.....guys...what comes after 3?;)

[bertogarce]

OOC: I was out of town this weekend so I wasn't able to get my orders in.

Captain Sachmo71, the 1st platoon of The Broadswords is ready for action.

[sachmo71]

Originally posted by bertogarce
OOC: I was out of town this weekend so I wasn't able to get my orders in.

Captain Sachmo71, the 1st platoon of The Broadswords is ready for action.

You're probably about to be knee-deep in it! :)
Keep buttoned up and the lead flying. Call us if you need help, and we'll be there. Be ready to move out as quickly as possible. Good luck, Lieutenant.

[Breeze]

Captain Warlord, SIR!

Don't worry about the lack of Armor. Just make sure they fixed the fuel lines...in case we need 'em in a hurry.

Get 'em on the run Cap. so I can play sniper!!!

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Phillipines

December 11th, 1941

18:24 Hours

Japanese probing attacks continue along our lines. Mortar shells begin to descend from the sky as well, now that the enemy has discerned at least a few of our positions.

Zone 1
Contact is made with the enemy, as Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon fights off the advance of two squads of Japanese infantry.

Zone 2
INCOMING!

Marines hunker down as the terrifying whistle of incoming artillery sounds over the falling rain. The shells slam home on the western edge of Captain Coffee Warlord’s line, primarily aimed at the support machinegun team stationed on the very edge of the zone.

At the same time, another Japanese squad makes a foolhardy attempt to move up “The Corridor,” but heavy fire from Coffee Warlord’s headquarters squad, as well as two Stuarts from The Broadswords’ Command Section, pin the enemy in place.

Zone 3
In the middle of zone 3 is a nice clearing 100 meters across, which Captain Blade6119’s Company C has set up as an ambush point. Lieutenant Qwikshot’s 2nd Platoon, with support from the company’s machinegun section, maul the unfortunate Japanese platoon with the objective of trying to take the clearing.

Zone 4
The firefight continues along the edge between the rice paddy and the graveyard, as two more Japanese squads join the fray. Captain ardent enthusiast’s headquarters squad finds it difficult to withdraw, due to the constant fire the area is receiving. But with assisting fire from one of Lieutenant samifan24’s infantry squads, and one of the company’s machinegun teams, they are finally able to gain a brief respite and beat the enemy back.


Semper Fi!

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Phillipines

December 11th, 1941

18:27 Hours

“Weapons free. I repeat, all teams weapons free. Send ‘em straight to hell, boys!”

The battle is joined in full, as attacks by the enemy are reported up and down the line. The fighting is close, personal, and at these ranges, very lethal.

Zone 1
INCOMING!

Marines try to force their bodies deeper into the available cover as mortar shells begin to pepper the area, aimed primarily at Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon on the right side of the zone. The bombardment is followed immediate by an attack by Japanese infantry. Our Marines fight hard, though, and are able to force the Japanese back, except for the far left side. Sergeant Udell’s squad begins to suffer casualties and are forced to withdraw a short ways, deeper into the trees.

Zone 2
One of The Meat Grinder’s machinegun teams is strategically placed on the eastern edge of “The Corridor,” and opens fire on the pinned Japanese infantry. .30 caliber rounds tear into their ranks, but the stubborn enemy continues to press, and more infantry continues to pour into the opening.

The support machinegun team on Captain Coffee Warlord’s left flank does not meet with similar success, unfortunately. Heavily suppressed by mortar fire, they are closed on and destroyed by Japanese infantry. Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon is unable to help, as they themselves are busy with a frontal attack by the Japanese. The squad to their far left, under Sergeant Killingsworth, takes casualties and is forced back.

Japanese infantry slip through the small gap created between zones 1 and 2, and assault Sergeant Reeves’ Stuart tank, from Lieutenant sterlingice’s3rd Platoon. Fortunately for our armored boys, the attack fails.

Zone 3
The stubborn Japanese continue to poor into the clearing, and are cut down by machinegun and rifle fire from Lieutenant Qwikshot’s platoon as quickly as they can enter. The northern edge of the clearing is littered with the bodies of the enemy.

Light contact is also encountered on the both ends of zone three as well, but Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon and Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon give a good accounting of themselves, holding the Japanese at bay without losses.

Zone 4
The respite earned by A Company is a brief one, but is just enough time for Captain ardent enthusiast’s command platoon to withdraw deeper into the treeline. And none too soon! Mortar fire rains down on the area just vacated by the Captain. Good call, ardent!

After trying their luck up the middle, the Japanese now seem intent on pressing the ends, as infantry move up on the western edge of rice paddy and the eastern edge of the graveyard. Lieutenant Marino’s 3rd Platoon and Lieutenant samifan24’s 1st Platoon stop them cold, though, and now appear to have them pinned in place.


Orders

Zone 1
We’ve got Japanese trying to pierce the area between Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon and Lieutenant Blade’s 2nd Platoon. Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Armored is dispersed between these two platoons, and Lieutenant Jennings’ 3rd Platoon is between and behind the two, fortunately positioned to stop just such a thrust.

Zone 2
Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon has trouble on its left side, and is still being pressed from the center. Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Armored is in the area, but this sort of close-range fighting is hazardous for the armor, as witnessed by Sergeant Reeves.

Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon and Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Armored, on your right side, have yet to make contact with the enemy, and the center is pretty well busy mowing down infantry that keep trying to come up “The Corridor.” Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon is to the rear in the center, being held in reserve.

Zone 3
This is the most stable of the zones right now, and Captain Blade6119’s Company is fairing well. No casualties have been reported yet.

Zone 4
The Japanese are trying to move up the sides, rather than the middle, but have been stopped cold wherever they’ve gone. Aside from Captain ardent enthusiast’s voluntary withdrawal, no ground has been given.

Infantry Captains
Bear in mind that you each have a 60mm mortar team at your disposal, as well as a pair of 81mm mortars to the rear. We also have two dozen small-caliber howitzers available for area bombardment.

Armor Captains
Close-range fighting in these heavily wooded areas can be quite hazardous to armor. Just ask Sergeant Reeves. Keep this in mind.

Let’s have your orders, officers.

Semper Fi!

[Coffee Warlord]

Lt JeffNights, double time it to reinforce Lt Breeze. Everyone else, stay put for now, keep the pressure on em.

Requesting artillery attacks on my left side until my reinforcements arrive.

You may wanna duck, Lt Lackey.

edit: Wouldn't mind some mortar fire down the middle while you heavy weapons boys are at it. Relieve some more pressure.

edit 2b: Screw it. Right flank teams, start scoping out positions for advance. CAUTIOUS advance forward, take your time. I want you to set up a flanking position on the center corridor. How you do it is up to you. Armor units, lend support as best you can. If you can't make it through the trees, fall back and lend support where you can.

[WSUCougar]

"Hot damn! Those infantry boys ain't so bad after all. Nice shooting, Qwikshot!"

"Fire & Ice units, hold your positions and stay frosty. This is just the opening number of a long day of dancing."

(Hey Dataking: Even if you can't capture a screenshot, is there any way you can do up a crude map, even if it's in Paint or something? I think it'd help to visualize.)

[sachmo71]

I leave it up to the individual platoon commanders to do what is best, but sterlingice...be CAREFUL! Infantry assaults against armor can get deadly, and my suggestion would be to withdraw to an area where you have at at least two hexes of visibility all around, otherwise those fast moving infantry platoons will be on you before you can hit them! However, you know what is best for your men and so defer the decision to you.

Good luck to all.

[Superman=#54]

I will stay with Lt. Bootlicker on the right flank.

edit: I want to move all my tanks behind Aes's infantry lines. From that spot my tanks will not be as threatened by enemy infantry. We also gain attack range.

[The Afoci]

I am not sure how my men are positioned, but if i have any one set up for reserves, swap them with Udell and have Udell support once his squad regroups. Other wise, shift my squads towards the gap to stop the hole.

[Blade6119]

Originally posted by DataKing
Luzon, The Phillipines

December 11th, 1941

18:27 Hours

“Weapons free. I repeat, all teams weapons free. Send ‘em straight to hell, boys!”

The battle is joined in full, as attacks by the enemy are reported up and down the line. The fighting is close, personal, and at these ranges, very lethal.

Zone 3
The stubborn Japanese continue to poor into the clearing, and are cut down by machinegun and rifle fire from Lieutenant Qwikshot’s platoon as quickly as they can enter. The northern edge of the clearing is littered with the bodies of the enemy.

Light contact is also encountered on the both ends of zone three as well, but Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon and Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon give a good accounting of themselves, holding the Japanese at bay without losses.

Zone 3
This is the most stable of the zones right now, and Captain Blade6119’s Company is fairing well. No casualties have been reported yet.

Infantry Captains
Bear in mind that you each have a 60mm mortar team at your disposal, as well as a pair of 81mm mortars to the rear. We also have two dozen small-caliber howitzers available for area bombardment.

Let’s have your orders, officers.

Semper Fi!

well well....it looks like my predictions were correct. The third company will make the japs wish they never know the word marine. I would like my mortar team to open fire on any target it sees, but right now it looks like the attacks are coming straight down the middle...lets try to get it firing there. I will commit my command force to the same area that Lieutenant Qwikshot has his men...its seems the japs are concentrating there, so why not give them more bullets to eat.

i thought this was supposed to be a delay and retreat mission, but it looks to me like the Third Company could make them retreat....is that possible, or does the comp just keep giving them men...is this a certain amout of turns, or how do we know if we achieved our mission?

[sachmo71]

The Japanese will have a finite number of men. It is quite possible to wipe out every unit on the map. However, as WSUCougar said, this is only the beginning, and the Japanese NEVER retreat!

We know we achieved our mission when either our last troop is pulled off of the map or the time limit expires. At that point we are shown our victory points and casualties compared with the Japanese. In a Delay mission like this one, we get more point for each turn we hold the victory hexes. I'm pretty sure we will end up having to retreat, but who knows?

[JeffNights]

"Alright 3rd platoon! Move out and forward! Lets drive the slants right back where they came from!!"

[DataKing]

OK. Lucky for you guys, I am home sick from work today, so I have had plenty of time to mess with screenshots (between trips to the bathroom, that is :( ).

I found a seperate screenshot program that works.

A couple of notes regarding the maps:

1. The resolution isn't the greatest, but this should give you some idea of what the battle scene looks like.
2. There are four bitmaps, one for each zone.
3. I chose not to display hex-lines, to reduce the clutter.
4. Visible range is 100 meters, and the distance between one unit symbol and another is 50 meters. That should give you all some idea of the limited visibility we are dealing with. Of course, trees reduce the visibility even more.
5. Zone 3 is big, and was cut off slightly on the edges, so the units on those edges will appear to be missing a squad or two. Not to worry.
6. West is "Up" and East is "down" for the purposes of these shots.

Zone 1

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1827_Zone1.jpg

Zone 2

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1827_Zone2.jpg

Zone 3

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1827_Zone3.jpg

Zone 4

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1827_Zone4.jpg

Semper Fi!

[Blade6119]

yah...not getting a thing....though sorry bout te sickness

[DataKing]

Ok got the screenshots fixed.

[Blade6119]

veerrrryyyy nnniiiiceeee.....really like all the dead jap bodies

[Blade6119]

.....umm...sorry, but i just realized that what ive been saying(jap) might be offensive to some people....if you have a problem with it, just post here or pm me and ill stop immediatley.

Sorry if you have taken offense!!

[The Afoci]

Blade and Jennings, since the enemy is driving between us or attempting too, should we allow them to come in some and ambush them from three sides or would it be too risky on a delay mission to let them gain any ground uncontested.

I was just asking since on of my groups got its ass kicked and it was forming a natural funnel so if you guys agreed i would look smarter :)

[Coffee Warlord]

From the looks of things, I think my boys are definatly earning the name Meat Grinder.

CARNAGE!

[Qwikshot]

I'm staying dug in unless my Captain has new orders.

[Blade6119]

nope....just moving my men and the mortar up to support you in the center....i do have to commend you with the machine gun request, as you turned out to be right.

But back to cleaning the toilets you insignificant little boy!!!!!

[samifan24]

Originally posted by Qwikshot
I'm staying dug in unless my Captain has new orders.

Same here. We sit on the rice paddy till they come at us, right Cap'n?

[Blade6119]

Data, i have tried to play this game but still have yet to figure it out...tried the turorials, but could not find the text files that go along with them....can you please direct me in the right way? Any helpful advice about the game?

[Blade]

Originally posted by The Afoci
Blade and Jennings, since the enemy is driving between us or attempting too, should we allow them to come in some and ambush them from three sides or would it be too risky on a delay mission to let them gain any ground uncontested.

I was just asking since on of my groups got its ass kicked and it was forming a natural funnel so if you guys agreed i would look smarter :)

If we want to risk it...then let's do it!

[DataKing]

Originally posted by Blade6119
veerrrryyyy nnniiiiceeee.....really like all the dead jap bodies

Those aren't bodies, those are active Japanese units that we can see. Naturally, there are a lot more that we cannot see right now.

Blade6119: The text for the tutorials is in the manual. The manual is a big PDF file, and you should have a link to it under your start button somewhere. I believe the tutorials start on page 82. You'll also probably want to print out the page that lists the hotkeys. There are quite a few.

For those of you who have taken a look at the game, it can be pretty detailed, particularly with a large unit like ours.

[RainRaven]

Lt. Blade and Lt. Afoci, Considering that Lt. Jennings is in perfect position to mow down the japs if they so choose to try to exploit the gap, then let them, they will be cut through like a hot knife through butter. However, I leave it you to decide if that is the best course of action at this current time, I see no sense in risking a higher body count on our side if you don't feel as though it is a prudent tactic.

[sterlingice]

I leave it up to the individual platoon commanders to do what is best, but sterlingice...be CAREFUL! Infantry assaults against armor can get deadly, and my suggestion would be to withdraw to an area where you have at at least two hexes of visibility all around, otherwise those fast moving infantry platoons will be on you before you can hit them! However, you know what is best for your men and so defer the decision to you.

Copy that, sir. Men, fall back. We are no good to the company if we are dead. We need to retreat to more visible land.

SI

[Tasan]

Infantry C, I think there is an uncomfortable break in the lines just east of my eastern tank. I'd hate for some Japanese to come through those lines behind us. ANything we can do about it?

[Breeze]

I don't know if the game will let me be this specific...but:

When LT JeffNights arrives, I want to slide some of my men to the left. This will strengthen our flank, allow the new troups to handle the right and we can combine forces to shore up the middle.

Hang in there men, help is on the way!

Breeze

[Poli]

Originally posted by samifan24
Same here. We sit on the rice paddy till they come at us, right Cap'n?

Affirm, LT!

[The Afoci]

Blade, Jennings maybe we should just partially do it. What i am thinking is I will drop my 2 most western squads back a little and maybe Blade you could bring back your eastern 2. Either that or Jennings could send his 2 squads up on each side some to support us where the enemy appears to be making its drive. I am for either one.

The more I think about it, the less I think we should let them up. I am worried by letting get forward, we could let them establish a wedge between us that we couldn't seal back up? But I also like the idea of letting them in the gap, calling in a mortar strike and then ambushing the hell out of them.

I guess I am confused on what i want to do, but since this is the first mission, I say lets test are luck and risk letting them in the gap and calling in a strike to blow the bastards back. So if blade, jennings, and rain raven are with me, move my western units back enough so they are out of enemy site and set them up for an ambush in the gap.

sorry if this rambling doesn't make sense, i am kinda thinking out loud to see what others have to say.

[DataKing]

Originally posted by Tasan
Infantry C, I think there is an uncomfortable break in the lines just east of my eastern tank. I'd hate for some Japanese to come through those lines behind us. ANything we can do about it?

The break you see in the lines is a narrow one, and if any Japanese did slip in there, they'd catch hell from two sides. I wouldn't worry about this one too much, if I were you. But still, it's always good to point things out like that. I'll be sure to keep an eye on it.

The basic hex in this game is 50 meters across, and the gap you're looking at is 50 meters. So they'd have a hard time slipping someone through there unnoticed.

[bertogarce]

Originally posted by DataKing

Zone 1
We’ve got Japanese trying to pierce the area between Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon and Lieutenant Blade’s 2nd Platoon. Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Armored is dispersed between these two platoons, and Lieutenant Jennings’ 3rd Platoon is between and behind the two, fortunately positioned to stop just such a thrust.

[/B]


The 1st Armored Division will continue to provide support and assistance to Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon and Lieutenant Blade’s 2nd Platoon. I just ask you guys to keep me informed and advised of potential changes in strategy.

[Katon]

Originally posted by DataKing
The break you see in the lines is a narrow one, and if any Japanese did slip in there, they'd catch hell from two sides. I wouldn't worry about this one too much, if I were you. But still, it's always good to point things out like that. I'll be sure to keep an eye on it.

The basic hex in this game is 50 meters across, and the gap you're looking at is 50 meters. So they'd have a hard time slipping someone through there unnoticed.

I can see three different units that can almost see into the gap. Why not just move one of them over?

[The Afoci]

bertogarce, I don't know how deadly this would be for you, probably a lot, but if our troops fall back to allow an open gap, is it feasable for you to draw them into the gap by attacking and falling back to lead them to the mortar strike and ambush? if so, i think that would be very helpful, if not maybe go to the north end maybe and set up there so your tanks can cover the entire gap.

That is if everyone agrees that we should try to draw them into it.

[DataKing]

Originally posted by Katon
I can see three different units that can almost see into the gap. Why not just move one of them over?

If you're referring to the infantry to your east, those are Lt. Qwikshot's boys, and they're busy hosing the enemy infantry that keep entering "The Clearing."

[bertogarce]

If we are in agreement that we should be drawing them into the gap, then I’m willing to carry out this difficult mission. The 1st Armored Platoon will launch an offensive against the Japanese, then retreat towards the open gap that’s created by the falling back of troops. If all goes according to plan, the enemy will follow us into the open gap, where they will be met with a mortar strike and ambush.

Once we get them following us, don’t leave me hanging guys!

[Qwikshot]

Originally posted by Katon
I can see three different units that can almost see into the gap. Why not just move one of them over?

If we are referring to the clearing, then yes, I have set up machine gun posts to ambush the enemy in the clearing, why have my soldiers in the clearing with no coverage against mortar or gunfire?

It's almost a funnel where the enemy has to rush through the clearing (like a gauntlet) to pierce the middle.

If your boys want to volunteer to sit in the middle of it waiting for the enemy be my guest.;)


If we are in agreement that we should be drawing them into the gap, then I’m willing to carry out this difficult mission. The 1st Armored Platoon will launch an offensive against the Japanese, then retreat towards the open gap that’s created by the falling back of troops. If all goes according to plan, the enemy will follow us into the open gap, where they will be met with a mortar strike and ambush.

Once we get them following us, don’t leave me hanging guys!


If you mean the clearing then yes, I 'll dig in an wait for you to draw them in...please have our ammo restocked and Captain you may want to make sure machine gunners are deployed in positions to be most lethal...you can have that mortar ready to rain fire as well...

I'm not going anywhere for an advance, but I'll watch your back if you draw them in. (As long as my captain is okay by it, I mean heck, he wants me cleaing toilets after the action is done;) )

[damnMikeBrown]

I'm in zone 4, to the SW edge of the graveyard. Just to be clear, the expected path of the Japanese force will be from the north?

What exactly am I looking at to my north. It would appear to be the tail end of a swamp? Looks bluish liquidy.

[DataKing]

damnMikeBrown: The rice paddy is to your west ("Up" on the map). It is labelled as such. You may need to scroll over a bit to see the entire map for Zone 4.

Everyone: Remember a couple of things, please.

1. West is "Up" and east is "Down" for these maps.
2. Don't worry too much about the nitty-gritty details with the maps. They're only there to help with visualization.
3. Armor attacks through heavy terrain like this, without infantry support, is a very risky proposition.
4. Bertogarce and the other guys in Zone 1 are the ones contemplating a move, but we have yet to receive any support of definitive "go" or "no go." That's probably up to the Captain.

[sachmo71]

Speaking as a Captain, I would say that I do not support a local counter-attack at this time. We do not know enough about the enemy force besides the fact that they probably outnumber us greatly. If units move forward then they lose cover and any entrenchment values that they have made thus far. Also, armor without infantry support is fodder for assaulting infantry. While I do not support the local attack, I still leave the ultimate decision to my lieutenants.

[The Afoci]

Sachmo, if you are worried only about the fact of an armor attack without infantry support, i will send in 1 or 2 squads for support. I am having trouble decide if we should be cautious or all out. It would be safe to just wait, but i have an urge to see what our guys can do. Maybe we wait a few turns to see how it works out to see if they are going after a center? An assult does seem risky(even though I suggested it), but the benifits could be huge, right?

Dataking, is a trap feasible with the game or is it something that has no chance to work?

[jfbbis]

Do "on high ground" mean my platoon has a line of sight on the clearing ? the graveyard ? the rice paddy ?

[Katon]

Originally posted by DataKing
If you're referring to the infantry to your east, those are Lt. Qwikshot's boys, and they're busy hosing the enemy infantry that keep entering "The Clearing."

Partly them, as I wasn't sure if they could shoot into the clearing through what for some reason I thought was jungle. I just misread the map. There are also two units (armor?) on the other side of the passage that could be moved to cover it. Of course, if the gap is as insignificant as you say, there's no need to bother.

[damnMikeBrown]

I'd preach caution. There may be a time for a counter assault, but outnumbered, and without intelligence on enemy assets, it wouldn't be a counter assault. It would be a probe. I don't think we've got the #'s to be doing that. The Japanese have the initiative. My advice would be wait for them to show their hand & commit in some manner. From that, we could formulate a counter strike.

Alternatively, a cauctious advance made by a few squads, along the axis of the Japanese advance, could provide some intelligence. If nothing else, they could call for fire from the mortar teams.

I'd advocate standing firm, however.

19-D, Scouts Out!

[DataKing]

The Afoci: The trap that you guys have been discussing is feasible, but there are a couple of things to bear in mind:

1. If the Japanese are able to break out of the pocket to the south (left), then we're in trouble. We're spread thin, and have very little to call on at the rear.
2. Any unit that moves loses the benefits of whatever cover and entrenchment they've managed to build. This reduces their effectiveness as a defensive unit. This makes a much bigger difference for infantry than it does for armor.

jfbbis: If the visibility were better, then these tanks would have an improved line of sight. However, the pouring rain means these units can't see much of anything right now. Only one of them can see even a portion of the clearing, and that is the very southern end. I was under the impression this platoonwas being held in reserve.

Katon: Those little gaps are small enough that nothing should slip through unnoticed.

I'm going to play the next turn or two this evening, so you boys in Zone 1 are going to want to make up your minds pretty soon.

[The Afoci]

Alright boys what are we going to do, go all out or sit and wait?

[Coffee Warlord]

<i>Has Captain Coffee Warlord doomed his men? Find out next time!</i>

[jfbbis]

"I was under the impression this platoonwas being held in reserve."
We are in reserve . I jut wanted to know if we could give supporting fire from where we are.

[Blade]

Originally posted by The Afoci
Alright boys what are we going to do, go all out or sit and wait?

Well, it is up to the Captain, but I am in favor of going all out...let's draw them into the gap. We need to establish right away that we are here to win, and we will do whatever is necessary to do so...

[sachmo71]

Funny, we "win" this scenerio by holding the objective as long as possible and exiting units from the map... :)

[The Afoci]

If capt says it alright, prepare 2 of my squads to run with tank to draw them back in.

[Aesyrqwe]

Personally im against such an ambush. Intelligence has not told us how many Japanese soldiers there are. With their slow probing of our lines they may be trying to draw US in. Also, if this left flank were to fall because of this ambush, our lines in the east will be jeapordized and open to be routed. We could end up losing more ground, more men, and most importantly, we would fail our mission...

[Superman=#54]

Lt. Bootlicker is right. We should play it safe it is only the first mission. We still have a long way to go. Lets all try to stay alive its only the first mission.

[Coffee Warlord]

I leave the choice up to you, Lt Bootlicker.

[bertogarce]

I respect the comments of Captain Sachmo. While part of me really wants to go all out at this time, I cede to the better judgement of the Captain. Put me down as now being in favor of playing it safe.

[The Afoci]

I don't know, I don't think they will be able to drive through the front of gap, the only problem i see is that they don't fall for our trap and hit us in a weakened area of our line.

[Aesyrqwe]

Well, in that case Coffee, sir, it is my belief that we do not go through with this planned "ambush". We would be sending our weakened forces of an already hurting left flank into the unknown. The game has just started, and i know we are all antsy, but i am opposed to sending out our reserves which are needed to reinforce that left flank. I know I'm not in charge of the soldiers out there, but i do not want to see an ambush which may ultimately end in us getting surrounded or a failed mission...

Edit: I seemed to have misunderstood Cpt. Coffee's order. I still stay true to my opinion on the matter, however.

[Superman=#54]

I agree with Lt. Bootlicker. This Bootlicker has a good head on him. Wouldn't want to see it blown off in the first mission. Bootlicker could go a long way with me supporting him. ;)

[The Afoci]

I think that rain raven has final say over what my troops do, but with no armor support it would fail. Maybe we should wait to see how it evolves....I still say, ambush, but....

[Coffee Warlord]

Oh, wait. You musta misread my orders, Aesyrqwe.

JeffNights, currently in reserve, is reinforcing an already hurting position (the left)

I had planned for *you*, on the right flank (where it's presently quiet), to advance and flank the corridor position. If you don't think you can get there, don't do it.

[DataKing]

ORDERS ARE NOW CLOSED.

I am progressing the battle a little bit this evening, so no more orders until I have the next battle report up.

I also have a question for you all. I am thinking of creating a different thread for the actual battle reports and such. The reason for this is that, for people that just want to read about the results, there is a lot of other stuff here for them to sift through. This would be one concise place for the story, the battle reports, the situational maps, and other "reader material," and we could keep discussion of orders here.

Please respond, if you have an opinion, via PM rather than posting here. Thanks.

Semper Fi!

[Aesyrqwe]

Well, looks like I missed out on sending orders. Oh well, I'll send them out tomorrow.Hmm... I still don't like this "ambush" idea, but its not my call. About flanking the corridor, sir, however. If i were to do so, it would be only if Lt. Superman=#54 and his armor platoon is in full agreement to do so. I would not like to leave his armor alone. I can see where you want me to go (that is, of course, unless i misread your orders again). You would like me to hit the advancing Japanese advance from the northwest. For me to do this I would be sending my platoon right into unknown land. I could get hit from any side and sent right back. This would also leave a gap in our lines. I would like to remind you sir that this is a delay mission, and excessive casualties is not needed. (Sorry if I sound to insubordinate with this sir, but i must speak my mind on this matter...)

[Coffee Warlord]

I fully believe in my officers speaking their minds. If you see something I don't, speak up or go for it on your own. The mighty Lackey, Bootlicker, and Flunky are in command of their own platoons for a reason.

I also fully believe in cutting my officers out of the gambling proceeds when they screw up. :)

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Phillipines

December 11th, 1941

18:30 Hours

Shouts of “Medic!” and “Man down!” are heard across the lines, mixed in with the cacophony of battle. Heavy fighting is reported across the line.

Zone 1
A squad of Japanese infantry attempt to exploit the gap created between 1st and 2nd Platoons, but are repulsed by various Marine infantry elements, and heavy fire from Lieutenant bertogarce’s personal Stuart tank.

But at the same time, no less than two full platoons of Japanese infantry rush Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon. The fighting is fierce, and our brave Marines give better than they get, but the weight of numbers begins to play a factor. Casualties mount, particularly amongst Captain RainRaven’s machinegun teams, and the Marines are forced to give ground. At least eight Marines are dead or wounded.

Zone 2
Insubordination can be a good thing! Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s hesitance to move his 2nd Platoon forward proves to be the right move, as Japanese infantry begin to appear out of the trees in front of them. Properly dug in and unsuppressed, they are able to fight the enemy off without losses. Lieutenant Superman=#54’s tanks stand fast right behind them, ready to move forward if necessary and bring their full weight to bear.

Just as American 60mm mortar shells begin to pound the corridor, at least a platoon of infantry charge at the Marines’ lines to Captain Coffee Warlord’s left. The fighting is fierce, and not without cost, but Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon succeeds in fending off the advancing enemy, giving up very little ground in the process.

As all of this is going on, 81mm mortar shells begin slamming home to Lieutenant Breeze’s left, and if any Japanese are there to attempt to press the flank, they make no move to do so. A couple of Lieutenant JeffNights’ squads from 3rd Platoon are close to reinforcing the company’s left, with more on the way, while Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Armored (including a very grateful Sergeant Reeves) withdraw towards a more defensible position.

Zone 3
Much to Captain Blade6119’s dismay, he cannot get his 81mm mortars on the radio as his squad moves into position to lay more fire on the clearing. Just as his own 60mm’s begin laying down fire and death on the far side of the clearing, shouts of “Incoming!” are heard from the trees at the west and east edges of the clearing. Japanese mortar shells begin to fall, suppressing some of the units located there.

Hot on the heels of the bombardment, more and more Japanese infantry begin to pour out of the trees. Some manage to gain at least a temporary foothold on the far end of the clearing, and others work their way into the tree-line at the west end.

The enemy appears in greater strength on the edges of zone three as well. To the west, Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon is hit by Japanese infantry. Casualties are reported on both sides, and one of 1st Platoon’s squads is forced to retreat.

To the east, Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon reports further contact with the Japanese. Katon’s boys fight bravely, though, and hold their own against the advancing enemy, though not without cost.

Zone 4
On the western edge of the rice paddy, Captain ardent enthusiast’s machinegun teams succeed in laying waste to the brave (though foolish) squad of Japanese that attempted to charge across.

At the eastern edge of the graveyard, support machineguns and heavy rifle fire from Lieutenant Marino’s 1st Platoon take care of business against another advancing squad of Japanese.

More Japanese infantry try their luck in the middle, between the rice paddy and the graveyard, but a Stuart tank commanded by Sergeant Bryan from Lieutenant Icjjdnh’s 1st Armored moves forward to the tree-line and decimates the Japanese with cannon and machinegun fire. Heartened by this bold move, the rest of 1st Armored moves up to the edge of the tree-line as well.


ORDERS

Zone 1
The gap between 1st and 2nd Platoons has not been exploited, but Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, along with the company’s machinegun teams, are taking heavy fire on the eastern edge of the zone, and are being forced back through sheer weight of numbers. This has placed two of Lieutenant bertogarce’s Stuarts in vulnerable positions, where it is possible for the enemy to close in on them and attempt to assault. Remember that you haven’t brought any of your artillery to bear yet.

Zone 2
The Meat Grinder is holding up pretty well. To the left, Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon is under heavy fire, but is holding its ground, and the mortar strikes to his left appear to be holding the enemy back there.

To the right, Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon has fought off the Japanese that have begun to appear there, and Lieutenant Superman=#54’s Stuarts are right behind them, in case anything goes wrong.

Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon is moving into position to reinforce 1st Platoon, and will begin to arrive in a few minutes. They are capable of going immediately to Breeze’s left, so no shift by him is necessary. Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Armored has withdrawn a short distance, out of harm’s way from Japanese infantry.

Zone 3
The Japanese have thrown a couple of platoons at “The Clearing,” and have established a foothold, as well as pressuring the units on the west side of the clearing. The defenses have begun to show signs of wavering.

To the west of the clearing, Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon has taken a few casualties fighting off Japanese infantry, and have begun to give a little ground. Lieutenant Tasan’s 3rd Armored is right behind him though, in case things get bad.

To the east, Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon has been bloodied as well, but has fought off the enemy so far without budging an inch.

Zone 4
It appears safe for armor to move up to the tree-line, as the enemy is unable to get close enough to attempt assaults on the tanks without being seen, so that is exactly what Lieutenant Icjjdnh’s 1st Armored has done. Captain WSUCougar’s Stuarts have remained behind the tree-line for now, though.

More infantry is trying to work its way across the rice paddy, but appear to be easy pickings for Lieutenant samifan24’s 1st Platoon and the company’s machinegun teams.

Zone 4 has yet to call upon their 60mm or 81mm mortars. The 60mms are integral, but the 81mms can be “loaned” to another company if you like.

The graveyard appears to be clear, at least for the moment. (Handy, having a graveyard right here, for when it comes time to bury the enemy dead. :D ).

ORDERS ARE NOW OPEN!

Semper Fi!

[sterlingice]

Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Armored has withdrawn a short distance, out of harm’s way from Japanese infantry.

Is there anywhere we can go where we would be helpful in any sort of capacity but not in immediate danger? I don't like this sitting on the sideline stuff.

SI

[Coffee Warlord]

Nice call, Lt Bootlicker. You get an extra 5 percent of the weekly poker proceeds this week. I may redirect some mortar fire your way if you receive additional pressure.

To my Lieutenants, no new orders. Do what you gotta do.

Continue mortar fire. Still requesting howitzer strikes in my sector.

And Lt Sterlingice, unless your heavy guns can reach the Corridor and lay down further suppressing fire, sit tight and have a cigarette.

[Blade6119]

Originally posted by DataKing
Luzon, The Phillipines

December 11th, 1941

18:30 Hours

Shouts of “Medic!” and “Man down!” are heard across the lines, mixed in with the cacophony of battle. Heavy fighting is reported across the line.

Zone 3
Much to Captain Blade6119’s dismay, he cannot get his 81mm mortars on the radio as his squad moves into position to lay more fire on the clearing. Just as his own 60mm’s begin laying down fire and death on the far side of the clearing, shouts of “Incoming!” are heard from the trees at the west and east edges of the clearing. Japanese mortar shells begin to fall, suppressing some of the units located there.

Hot on the heels of the bombardment, more and more Japanese infantry begin to pour out of the trees. Some manage to gain at least a temporary foothold on the far end of the clearing, and others work their way into the tree-line at the west end.

The enemy appears in greater strength on the edges of zone three as well. To the west, Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon is hit by Japanese infantry. Casualties are reported on both sides, and one of 1st Platoon’s squads is forced to retreat.

To the east, Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon reports further contact with the Japanese. Katon’s boys fight bravely, though, and hold their own against the advancing enemy, though not without cost.

Zone 3
The Japanese have thrown a couple of platoons at “The Clearing,” and have established a foothold, as well as pressuring the units on the west side of the clearing. The defenses have begun to show signs of wavering.

To the west of the clearing, Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon has taken a few casualties fighting off Japanese infantry, and have begun to give a little ground. Lieutenant Tasan’s 3rd Armored is right behind him though, in case things get bad.

To the east, Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon has been bloodied as well, but has fought off the enemy so far without budging an inch.

Semper Fi!

hmmm....well bu the sound of it alone it seems that the clearing has more troops than anywhere else, and my command squad is already deployed there. That mortar blasting into them would be a nice help:rolleyes: :rolleyes: ,but we have to make due with what we got. We must try to hold the line for a longer period of time, for we do have the crucial zone. it is the biggest, and also has two bordering zones.

Men: if our zone falls we will systematically bring about the defeat of this army, so we will not retreat until ordered to. Now i am very aware that they are comin on strong, so again...if you think you need to give some ground, do so(Qwiksoht, in your orders remeber you still have the machine gun crew). My command squad will await the decision of my 3 offivers before we decide where to move. If you believe a need for reinforcements befits your zone over Qwikshots, just say so. I will review it and respond. If one unit falls back, we need to have all 3 units fall back...flanking is a big facotor in this gamem and we cannot allow them to hit our sides as we will be wiped out. So here are my individual orders for what, in genreal(you take care of details), i want to be carried out.

Lieutenant tucker342: I might suggest a small fallback to your 1 retreating unit...if not, hold your ground, as reviewing the situation for the enitre army, i'm not to sure we will be sticking around too long. It still sounds like the clearing is the main objective of the enemy troops in our zone, so giving up your corresponding spot would surley doom the center and right flanks.

Lieutenant Qwikshot: The only orderes i have for you are to kill as many as you can before falling back......we will eventually give them the center, but make them pay dearly for it. My squad will help you until futher notice, and deploy them how you see fit unless otherwise noted. When it gets to the point where you feel the fall back is required, you jave my support...but with make sure the machine gunners give em a going away present;) .

Lieutenant Katon: You look to be faring the best right now...you have oushed back the enemy, but more will come....dig in for now, but if the rest of the company falls back, do notI leave compromise your flanks trying to hold...If you feel no pressure from the enemy, a move to support would be nice, but could also expose a hole between us and zone 4....i would prefer a strong defensive stand here, possible delaying any japanese advance.

Please respond with any comments on my tactics, for i value all of your insight. The orders are pending, as change is more than likely based on our current situation.

[Blade6119]

oh, and Lieutenant tasan, if you could do anything to help tuckers boys it would be nice, but we may be falling back to you anyway.

[Qwikshot]

Could we have another map update please?

[DataKing]

I will post new battle maps when requested, and when I feel they are pertinent. I don't mind doing them, but they take some time to put together. Just so you all know.

Here is the updated map for Zone 3, Qwikshot.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1830_Zone3.jpg

Semper Fi!

[Qwikshot]

Thanks for the map, having viewed it, I still feel we're better dug in (waiting on those mortars!)

If I'm seeing correctly the enemy has to run through rice paddies (swamp?) to get to the clearing so they're not in favorable position.

I'm concerned about the westernmost(?) tip of my crew (it looks like an 8 and 9) are in a bad way.

[Tasan]

Roger that Cptn Blade6119.

Platoon, get 'em cranked and prepare to cover Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon in a fallback manuver. Provide covering fire and withdraw behind the infantry to secure overlook positions when they have cleared. Can we get some directed mortar fire to cover the fallback?

Oh yeah and boys, make 'em bleed real good for any ground they get.

[Breeze]

Captain Coffee,

I would like to keep the mortors coming, at least until reinforcements arrive. If they need to be redirected at that point do so. Plus, get those howitzers out here. Tell them if they don't show soon, we'll call in their markers.

Men,

Dig in a little deeper, keep your heads down, and hold the line. Help should arrive is a couple minutes.

Lt. Lackey

[Coffee Warlord]

I plan on keeping your mortar strikes right where they are, Lt Lackey.

Captain: Radioman Boris!

Radioman: Da, comrade kaptain?

Captain: Continue sending request for howitzer support in our area. Inform them I have enough IOU's from their unit to repossess one of the damn things.

Radioman: Da, kapitan! HQ! We are beink under heavy attack. Pleased to beink firink howitzers now, zlotniks.

[Katon]

Do we suffer any negative consequences for the command squad getting shot? If so, are we sure we want Infantry 3 Command that close to the clearing? Nice to know that my lot are holding out. I think trying to flank the enemies in the clearing would be a bit of a gamble - if it goes well than we've really weakened the main enemy assault, but it involves weakening my position and abandoning fortifications. I get the impression that the battle is going well enough so far that we don't really need to gamble. My platoon stays where it is unless/until the people in the clearing have trouble keeping on top of things there.

[DataKing]

Note: The blue stuff on that map (to the north of the clearing and along the line) is smoke, not rice paddy or swamp. For some reason, the snapshot program makes it look blue.

I'll remove the smoke on future maps.

[DataKing]

I am communicating with ardent enthusiast regarding this dynasty via e-mail, due to his connectivity issues, and I will relay his orders and comments here, for the benefit of his men and others.

Currently, he has no new orders for his men. Since Zone 4 seems to be pretty well in hand, he is willing to "loan out" his 81mm mortars to someone else who feels the particular need for more fire support (Hint hint Blade6119). :D

[The Afoci]

Could I get a map on what is going on? Did we try to set up an ambush? From the sounds of it, the japanese went east not west and are ready to punch through the lines? I don't know what is going on. Please help.

[DataKing]

Originally posted by The Afoci
Could I get a map on what is going on? Did we try to set up an ambush? From the sounds of it, the japanese went east not west and are ready to punch through the lines? I don't know what is going on. Please help.

I'm at work right now, so I can't put a map together until I get home this evening.

The Japanese did strike mostly to the east, rather than west, running right into your line. Your platoon has been pushed back a little bit, but not much. Other than that, things stand pretty much where they were with the last map.

[Blade6119]

Originally posted by DataKing
I am communicating with ardent enthusiast regarding this dynasty via e-mail, due to his connectivity issues, and I will relay his orders and comments here, for the benefit of his men and others.

Currently, he has no new orders for his men. Since Zone 4 seems to be pretty well in hand, he is willing to "loan out" his 81mm mortars to someone else who feels the particular need for more fire support (Hint hint Blade6119). :D

i wouldn't at all mind the added firepower, and any help is gretly appreciated.

I though the blue was enemy troops, which is why i was soo afraid...with the knowledge i have know, a stand at current positions is fine...Tasan, keeping your tanks in the battle for another round would help. Sorry for the mixed-up orders:p

[sachmo71]

All Broadsword elements, hold your positions. Remeber to fall back WITH the infantry...do not leave them exposed, or yourselves. If you have to move quick, load the squads onto your hulls. We are just mobile pillboxes in this one, so move wherever the infantry needs you most. Good luck.

[jfbbis]

Maybe time for my platoon to advance just behind Qwikshot and give him support ? What does my captain think of it ?

[damnMikeBrown]

I realise I never sent the order for my men to dig in. While we've done nothing yet, laying on the ground isn't good for getting a proper amount of sleep. Digging a foxhole for the BAR, and some hasties for the rest, will provide a much better environment for relaxing, and listening to the other's gunplay.

Zone 4: Lt. damnMikeBrown orders the platoon to entrench.

[The Afoci]

I want my guys to dig in an hold as long as they can here right now. If I am getting hammered in the east, could I get some mortar support here or anything?

Data-did we go through with the ambush plan even thought they didn't fall for it (yet)?

[Superman=#54]

I would like to move up to Lt. Bootlicker and support his men with my tanks. Put my tanks in attack range. I have a feeling about the next few turns.

[DataKing]

Originally posted by The Afoci
I want my guys to dig in an hold as long as they can here right now. If I am getting hammered in the east, could I get some mortar support here or anything?

Data-did we go through with the ambush plan even thought they didn't fall for it (yet)?

Your guys are holding on as best they can, but are being forced back through sheer weight of numbers. Mortar fire to your front is a definite possibility.

Regarding the ambush plan, it didn't sound to me like there was a definite go-ahead with the plan, so you guys did not conduct it.

[Aesyrqwe]

Ok boys, we've held them off so far, lets keep it up. My men will stay dug in. We will let them rush at us and mow them down as they come...

[WSUCougar]

Originally posted by jfbbis
Maybe time for my platoon to advance just behind Qwikshot and give him support ? What does my captain think of it ?
"Copy that. Deploy half of your tanks in support of Lt. Qwikshot's platoon. Do not overextend! Coordinate with the boys on foot. Give 'em hell. Cougar out."

DataKing: What is the command range for the platoon commanders? In other words, how much separation can we have between the far tanks with the command tank? By the way, the maps are a great help - thanks.

[Tasan]

3rd Platoon, belay those orders, seems the grunts were getting a little jumpy. Advance and provide cover fire, remaining behind the infantry and keep an eye on the corridor to the east of us.

[DataKing]

WSUCougar: The safe command range for command unit is 150 meters (3 hexes). For reference, since I am not including hexes on the maps, the distance between adjacent unit flags is approximately 50 meters. I will generally keep all of the units in a platoon within 150 meters of their command unit. Lieutenant bertogarce's armor is the notable exception right now, as he has been charged with providing armor support for two platoons in Zone 1.

Anything beyond 150 meters and you're relying on radios, and they are anything but reliable (just ask Captain Blade6119).

I'm glad the maps are helpful. I will update them when the time allows and the situation warrants. They are a little time-consuming to put together.

[Superman=#54]

Yes, the maps are very usefull and are worth the time you spend on them. Keep up the good work Data this has been a pretty fun experince so far.

[RainRaven]

I want mortar fire directed at those damn japs on Lt. Afoci's line. The losses of our brothers will not be in vain. Any other ideas that the Lt's have will be considered of course. Afoci, I was slow on the ambush idea but in the end I would've decided againist it anyways, no sense getting fancy and taking huge risks when this is a delaying mission. We will get better chances later to give them plenty of hell.

[DataKing]

I'm glad you guys are enjoying it. I am having fun running it, and it has certainly added a new aspect to the game for me.

It can be a little difficult to keep up with all of the different orders and questions that come in, so bear with me if I miss something.

And on that happy note...

ORDERS ARE NOW FROZEN.

In the interest of keeping things moving, I am going to run another turn or two now.

[Godzilla Blitz]

Just wanted to jump in a say that this is some great stuff! Lots of fun to read! I would vote for keeping everything in one place, though. It's just as much fun to read the group's thinking and brainstorming as it is to read the battle reports. The "chatter" adds a lot of flavor, IMHO.

Keep it up! Semper Fi!

Take it to Tokyo!

[Coffee Warlord]

Captain Coffee says there's always a place for GB in his staff.
You can take the role of Radioman Boris, or perhaps even Private Toadie!

[sony]

wow

[Godzilla Blitz]

Originally posted by Coffee Warlord
Captain Coffee says there's always a place for GB in his staff.
You can take the role of Radioman Boris, or perhaps even Private Toadie!

Coffee,

Thanks, I would love to—this really looks like it's going to be a great dynasty—but I'm in crunch time for my thesis now and am won't be able to contribute much for another couple of months. I'm stopping by a few times a week though to read though. Really enjoying it! Great idea and great participation!

Thanks though for the offer!

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Phillipines

December 11th, 1941


18:33 Hours

New wrinkles by the Japanese, and a bit of misfortune, threaten to turn the tide of the battle against our brave Marines.

(Note: On these maps, each Japanese flag symbol (the red dot on a white field) represents at least one enemy unit that can be seen.)

Zone 1
American 60mm and 81mm mortar shells slam home to the front and the left of Lieutenant The Afoci’s embattled 1st Platoon. With additional fire support from Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Armored, the Marine platoon reforms a contiguous line. Fierce fighting continues to 1st Platoon’s front, but the intensity of the attacks seems to be lessening, no doubt due to the mortar shells crashing to earth 100 meters or so beyond their lines.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1833_Zone1.jpg

Zone 2
At the east end of zone two, Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Armored moves up to the fire line with Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, and not a moment too soon! Large numbers of Japanese infantry come storming out of the woods, only to be met by a hail of lead and fiery death from the combined fire of the infantry and the Stuart tanks. The Japanese keep the pressure up, but many of them are killed or forced back deeper into the tree-line.

To the west of the corridor, squads from Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon begin to arrive, and take up positions to the left of Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon. More American mortar shells slam home to the front of 1st Platoon, taking some of the bite out of the Japanese’ continuous attacks in this area. However, Radioman Boris (part of our lend-lease arrangement with the Russians, no doubt :D ) is still unable to contact our howitzer batteries to the rear.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1833_Zone2.jpg

Zone 3
To the west of the clearing, Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon remains under heavy fire, but a timely thrust forward by Lieutenant Tasan’s 3rd Armored helps to fend off the Japanese, at least for the time being.

To the east, the brave Marines of Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon fight on, inflicting and receiving heavy casualties from the relentless enemy infantry. While most of the platoon holds their ground, Sergeant Glussich’s platoon is caught in a murderous and continuous hail of bullets from the Japanese. Three Marines withdraw to regroup with Lieutenant Katon, but there whereabouts of the rest of the squad is unknown.

But the boys in the center appear to be worse off than either group on the flanks, as all hell breaks loose in and around The Clearing. 81mm mortar shells, some of them “on loan” from Company A, begin dropping at the northern end of the clearing a little further to the west, breaking up the Japanese infantry formations there. At the same time, two Stuarts from Lieutenant jfbbis’ 2nd Armored move up to the southern edge of the clearing, helping to clear out the enemy infantry.

A few 60mm shells land on the Japanese positions as well, then suddenly a particularly loud BOOM is heard from the rear. A faulty mortar round has exploded in the tube. Fortunately, none of the crew of the mortar team were injured, but the tube itself is useless.

As all of this is going on, heavy (and I mean HEAVY) amounts of Japanese mortar fire pours into the area, particularly on the east and southern edges of the clearing. Lieutenant Qwikshot and Captain Blade6119 themselves dive for cover and dare not lift their heads, as the area is absolutely peppered with small and medium-caliber mortar shells, as well as rounds from 75mm long-range guns (a new development in the battle). The bombardment is fierce and terrible, and a few unfortunate Marines are caught without suitable cover.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1833_Zone3.jpg

Zone 4
Just when you thought it was safe to loan out your mortar team…

Captain WSUCougar’s Command Group from Armor A join their compatriots at the edge of the tree-line, joining in the fun of mowing down Japanese infantry attempting to cross the rice paddy. But things are not as they have appeared. More Japanese infantry move into firing range from the tree-line to the west of the rice paddy, and begin to give the Marines of Lieutenant samifan24’s 1st Platoon some trouble.

At the same time, somewhere in the neighborhood of a full company of Japanese infantry emerge from the rain in the graveyard to the east, immediately putting heavy pressure on the Marines of Lieutenant damnMikeBrown’s 2nd Platoon and Lieutenant Icjjdnh’s 1st Armored. No ground is given, and casualties appear to be light on the Marines side, but through the cost of many lives the Japanese appear to be establishing a foothold on our right flank.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1833_Zone4.jpg


ORDERS

Zone 1
Things seem to be calming down, at least for the time being, in zone one. I am sure this is at partially due to the mortar fire being called down on the Japanese in the area.

Zone 2
3rd Platoon is beginning to reinforce 1st Platoon, particularly to their left. That, and the mortar fire to the front of 1st Platoon seems to be taking some of the pressure off. But pressure is mounting to the right. 2nd Platoon and 2nd Armored are fairing well so far against the enemy on the right, but there seem to be more of the Japanese waiting to pounce.

Lieutenant sterlingice, if you want to get into the action, the most logical place would be to move up to 1st Platoon’s firing line. However, doing so is not without hazard, as you will be susceptible to Japanese assault tactics. Just so you know.

Zone 3
There is a world of hurt coming down on the east side of the clearing, and a number of units in that area are on the verge of panic. At the same time, 3rd Platoon is being hard-pressed to the east. The 60mm mortar team is nothing more than a glorified rifle squad now, and I suspect Captain ardent enthusiast will be “asking” for his 81mm mortars back.

Ahhh…the joys of command. :D

Zone 4
What looked to be the quietest sector in our area has suddenly become rather noisy. You’ve got Japanese moving in through the trees to your far left, as well as about a company trying to work their way through the graveyard. The Marines of Company A and Stuarts from Armored Company A are holding them back for now, but the numbers of the Japanese are impressive.

You are well within your rights to demand your 81mm mortar teams back from zone three.


ORDERS ARE NOW OPEN.

Semper Fi!

[Qwikshot]

If I pull my threatened wing (East?) back I'll leave Katon in danger. but I'd want to only move a hex or two back.

I'd like to keep the western part dug in still and cover the clearing as I believe there will be a rush coming soon.

If I can just get those units in harms way back into better positions that's what I'd like to do without giving up too much ground.

[Tasan]

anyone else wanting to contribute to the "remove the damn stamp from the screenshot" fund? I know I am. ;- )

Anyway, how are the infantry doing around my tanks? I'd like to 'cover' my tanks again so I don't have to be assaulted directly, but I don't want to leave the infantry hanging thin and in low moral.

[Blade6119]

Originally posted by Qwikshot
If I pull my threatened wing (East?) back I'll leave Katon in danger. but I'd want to only move a hex or two back.

I'd like to keep the western part dug in still and cover the clearing as I believe there will be a rush coming soon.

If I can just get those units in harms way back into better positions that's what I'd like to do without giving up too much ground.

This movement has my full support, but i have a few additional orders....with the 60 mm out, lets move that rifle team up to help the center...id like also to ask Lietenant jfibbs if he would move his back 3 tanks forward to support Lt. Katon...it sounds like he needs it. If ardent is taking away his mortars(he has every right), can i get some of the bombardment that coffee has been callin for??

[DataKing]

Woohoo! We've been given the "thumbs-up" from Mr. Interactive Dynasty himself, Godzilla Blitz! I'm blushing! :p

Glad you've enjoyed the read GB. Good luck with the thesis. I'm sure we can find you a spot on the roster when you're done with all that silly academic work and are ready to get back to what really matters. ;)

Tasan: The license stamp may be a little annoying, but it's $35 to buy a license. A bit pricey if you ask me.

As far as your tanks go, it's a trade-off. If you leave them up close, then they can add their firepower to fighting off the enemy, but run the risk of being assaulted. But if you pull them back, it's damn near impossible to get a line-of-sight on the enemy, meaning you can't fire.

We can't be sure, but I suspect that tucker342's infantry will continue to be pressured, judging by what we have seen thus far. The decision is up to you and Captain WSUCougar, naturally.

Blade6119: Assuming that Radioman Boris can ever get through on the radio, then howitzer support is yours. We've got guns galore that should be available. These are area-fire pieces though, so targeting them a safe distance from your own infantry can be tricky.

[sterlingice]

I'll do what's best for us as a whole. sachmo71, I'm awaiting your orders, sir.

SI

[damnMikeBrown]

What is the games facility for counter fire on the Japanese long guns? Are our mortars able to function as a counter battery, or are they strictly harrasment/supression weapons here?

Is entrenchment a single command, or are there varying levels of entrenchment?

[DataKing]

damnMikeBrown: True entrenchment isn't really available in delay missions, only defend missions. The best we can do on a delay mission is "in cover," which is accomplished by setting a unit's stance to "defend." This was done right at the beginning, so your boys are as well protected as they're going to get, I'm afriad.

The ability of a unit to use cover to protect themselves is a function of their experience, as well as terrain (which is why we set up on the tree-line), so they will get better at it as the war progresses (assuming they survive).

Our howitzers are capable of counter-battery fire against the Japanese long guns, but this is something completely out of our hands. The only thing we can do to help this out is to leave some of the howitzers idle (which definitely isn't a problem, since Radioman Boris can't get them on the horn anyway).

Let me know if this doesn't answer your questions.

[WSUCougar]

"Captain blade6119, I don't like the sound of that Jap artillery. Your infantry has a bit of a salient at the east edge of the clearing, and I'd expect them to get slammed. I'm putting Lt. jfbbis' platoon of Stuarts at your immediate disposal. I'd recommend moving them up to support that area, but it's your call on the ground. Lt. jfbbis, acknowledge, and fire the rest of your tanks up ASAP. It's gonna get hot."

"Lt. Icjjdnh, let's hit the Japs while they're in the open in the graveyard. Pile 'em high!"

DataKing: please redploy a couple of my tanks to support the west end of the rice paddy (where the Japanese are advancing).

[Breeze]

Someone tell Boris if he doesn't get through to the "Big Guns" I'm going to tell Ginger he has herpies.:D

With support arriving for my men and action heating up elseware, tell Boris to order the first Howitzer attack for Blade. (but don't forget about us...I'm sure things are going to get ugly again.)

Otherwise, we'll continue to hold the line.

Captain Coffee, any additional orders, SIR?

[AStott]

Originally posted by DataKing
As far as your tanks go, it's a trade-off. If you leave them up close, then they can add their firepower to fighting off the enemy, but run the risk of being assaulted. But if you pull them back, it's damn near impossible to get a line-of-sight on the enemy, meaning you can't fire.
Actually, there is a good chance that the tanks can use indirect fire to hit areas that are beyond their own 2 hex spotting range, but which don't have a line of sight blocked by trees or hills. Try using the 'Z' key to attack a hex. This would allow the tanks to pound hexes in which the infantry has spotted enemy units without having to move into potential assault range. Mostly this will just increase suppression levels on the enemy units, but you may also get some occasional kills. In this situation, suppression is extremely useful because it'll slow down the enemy's advance giving the marines more time to mow them down with rifle fire.

[sachmo71]

Dataking, I'm having trouble keeping track of all of the Lieutenants being mentioned. Could we add the company to the descriptions as well as the platoon? At least until everyone get's comfortable with who belongs to who, and I think it might make this MAGNIFICENT dynasty a little easier to read! Example: 1st Platoon, Armor A or 3rd Platoon Infantry B?


Orders: Sterlingice, I leave it up to you as to how to handle your deployment. Everyone, if you don't have line of sight, resort to indirect fire.

[Coffee Warlord]

Boris! Get through on that radio, or I'm sending your ass back to the Russian front!

Mortar teams. Those of you targeting the left flank, retrain to shell the treeline on the right flank.

Corridor mortar teams, if we have enemy contact in that area, continue fire. If it's clear, move mortar attacks to the left flank.
Don't get comfortable shelling the left flank though, as your main priority is supressing enemies in that Corridor.

Left and right flank platoons, hang on to what we got. Left flank, you'll get your mortars back soon, but I want some pressure on the right for a bit. You got grenades, use em, if they help.

[bertogarce]

Glad to hear things have calmed down in Zone 1 and a contiguous line has been formed again. 1st Armored Platoon will go wherever we’re needed. Captain Sachmo, let me know if you want us to remain in Zone 1, or head somewhere else.

OOC: Great read! I'm happy to be part of this thread.

[Katon]

Originally posted by Qwikshot
If I pull my threatened wing (East?) back I'll leave Katon in danger. but I'd want to only move a hex or two back.

I'd like to keep the western part dug in still and cover the clearing as I believe there will be a rush coming soon.

If I can just get those units in harms way back into better positions that's what I'd like to do without giving up too much ground.

Don't worry about me. I'm also going to be giving a little ground. I'll pull back enough to both get my units to a slightly safer position and let Qwikshot pull his east wing back as far as he wants.

[The Afoci]

Hold position boys. Since we are regrouped, you can stop the mortar fire and save for those who need it.

Rain Raven- I understand wanting to hold back, but I was getting antsy to kick their ass all at once.

[sachmo71]

Bertogarce: Unless you can see a need to move, I'd rather you hold position.

[sterlingice]

Lieutenant sterlingice, if you want to get into the action, the most logical place would be to move up to 1st Platoon’s firing line. However, doing so is not without hazard, as you will be susceptible to Japanese assault tactics. Just so you know.

Orders: Sterlingice, I leave it up to you as to how to handle your deployment. Everyone, if you don't have line of sight, resort to indirect fire.

Well, I don't know much about tactics, but I do know that I'm not doing anything to help right now so we're moving up to help them out.

SI

[Qwikshot]

Originally posted by Katon
Don't worry about me. I'm also going to be giving a little ground. I'll pull back enough to both get my units to a slightly safer position and let Qwikshot pull his east wing back as far as he wants.

Now that Lt. Katon is aware of my plans, please pull back the soldiers under heavy bombardment a few hexes but I still want them to have a good line of sight.

[damnMikeBrown]

Thanks, it did answer my question. I went to bed, and thought of another one though.

What about soldier fatigue? Is it modeled here? I see where some of us are antsy to advance upon Japanese troops, after they've been under fire. Does a turn with no activity help the troops or is it merely a turn with no activity?

[DataKing]

Soldier fatigue is not taken into account in the game, but suppression is. A unit that is under fire (particularly from mortars and other "big guns) or takes casualties will either get pinned in place, or will retreat. Unit sergeants and their commanders can work to reduce suppression, but it can take time (a couple of turns for heavily suppressed units).

[DataKing]

(Orders from ardent enthusiast for Infantry Company A).


1. Redirect 60mm mortar and machinegun fire to tree-line at the left end of the zone.
2. Lt. samifan24, provide crossfire on the graveyard if possible (this is likely to be unfeasible. samifan24's men are busy with Japanese infantry between the graveyard and rice paddy, and the range is too great to be able to see most of the enemy in the graveyard).

Well, I suppose I'll need to recall my mortar and
> have them concentrate
> their fire over the graveyard. Just hope I don't
> end up picking bone out of
> my hair over the next couple of days.:)

Edit: Orders changed. 81mms ARE being recalled from Company C.

[DataKing]

Originally posted by sachmo71
Dataking, I'm having trouble keeping track of all of the Lieutenants being mentioned. Could we add the company to the descriptions as well as the platoon? At least until everyone get's comfortable with who belongs to who, and I think it might make this MAGNIFICENT dynasty a little easier to read! Example: 1st Platoon, Armor A or 3rd Platoon Infantry B?


No problem, I'll do this, at least for the time being.

[sachmo71]

Originally posted by DataKing
No problem, I'll do this, at least for the time being.
Thanks a ton!

[bertogarce]

1st Armored Platoon will hold our position in Zone 1.

[Tasan]

Okay keep my tanks in front line position with the infantry but keep an eye on how close their guys are getting, we may need to fall back a little and regroup our defesive line if they start assaulting the tanks directly.

[jfbbis]

"I'm putting Lt. jfbbis' platoon of Stuarts at your immediate disposal. I'd recommend moving them up to support that area, but it's your call on the ground. Lt. jfbbis, acknowledge, and fire the rest of your tanks up ASAP"
Acknowledge ! Unless asked otherwise by Blade6119, i'll just advance towards the east edge of the clearing and engage whatever is there.
Uh, whatever hostile is there sounds maybe better, doesn't it ?

[lcjjdnh]

Originally posted by WSUCougar
[B
"Lt. Icjjdnh, let's hit the Japs while they're in the open in the graveyard. Pile 'em high!"
[/B]
Sounds captain. Let's concentrate on trying to force the forces in the graveyard further back east where we can keep them in the open. It could be tougher to get them if they get into the rice paddy, so if we could pinch those in the graveyard off it would be good.

[samifan24]

Dataking- My men are being held up by Japanese near the rice paddy. If I could get some help, I could sweep them back and move to provide crossfire on the graveyard. What do you suggest?

[DataKing]

Originally posted by samifan24
Dataking- My men are being held up by Japanese near the rice paddy. If I could get some help, I could sweep them back and move to provide crossfire on the graveyard. What do you suggest?

Not advisable, as you have Japanese infantry coming through the trees to the west of the rice paddy as well between the paddy and the graveyard.

I would advise waiting to see what develops in the graveyard. The Japanese have strong numbers there, but are facing a lot of firepower (infantry, machineguns, and tanks). Captain ardent enthusiast is also going to bring the 81mm mortars to bear down there.

[Superman=#54]

I wil hold my position on the right flank with Lt. Bootlicker. Nice we get some motar fire on the right side not that we need it. ;)

[Aesyrqwe]

Ok, stay dug in. Let them rush us and we will send them right back. Also we got mortar fire which will ease them off our backs a bit.

[DataKing]

I am progressing the game, so...

ORDERS ARE NOW CLOSED.

[Godzilla Blitz]

Commander DataKing: I have to admit that my priorities are really screwed up when I have to turn down serving our country in the jungles of Asia to write a silly graduate thesis. It's hard to be back here on the homefront safe behind my computer and read about the violent ugliness that's going on in that bloody stretch of jungle. I would much rather pick up a rifle and be in a foxhole. Great stuff, though. This next graveyard rush looks to be nasty, and who knows how much more the Japanese have got left to give? They seem to be coming in endless waves.

Remember the Alamo!

Oops. Wait. We lost that one, didn't we?

Remember Bunker Hill?

Did we lose that one too?

Oh, well. Just give 'em hell!

[DataKing]

It looks like it may be a day or two before I can post the next write-up, and the next batch of maps. You can blame Hattrick for part of it, and real life for the rest of it, if you feel the need to do so. :)

A couple of things...

1. Don't blame Boris any more for not being able to call up the Howitzers. It turns out that we're out of range. My bad. :mad:
2. The Meat Grinder's 81mm mortars are now out of ammo.
3. Infantry Company C is getting beaten and battered, but 1st Platoon (Lieutenant tucker342) are proving themselves to be damn fine Marines.
4. The carnage continues on all fronts.

I hope to have the next batch of information ready for you guys on Saturday. Stay tuned!

[Coffee Warlord]

Originally posted by DataKing
2. The Meat Grinder's 81mm mortars are now out of ammo.



Eeep.

[samifan24]

Hold your ground, men, hold your ground!!

[Qwikshot]

Originally posted by samifan24
Hold your ground, men, hold your ground!!

I am the dread pirate roberts!!!

Seriously, I feared my platoon would get mauled. Now I have to be held in suspense until Saturday....

[damnMikeBrown]

You don't have to be the fastest guy in a retreat. You just have to be faster than the guy behind you.

[Breeze]

Um, Captain.

It's disturbingly quiet around here without those mortors.:(

But I'm sure we won't have long to dwell on that thought.


Keep your heads up men....ahh, maybe that wasn't the best phrase to use.

[Coffee Warlord]

Worry not. I have Radioman Boris working on finding some cows to launch at the Japanese as we speak.

[Poli]

Let's get them, men!

[tucker342]

Infantry Company C is getting beaten and battered, but 1st Platoon (Lieutenant tucker342) are proving themselves to be damn fine Marines.

Lets stay strong guys.
I'm surprised I'm actually fighting well.

Maybe it's almost time to fall back???

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Phillipines

December 11th, 1941

18:36 Hours

Our ferocious enemy continues to press on all fronts, particularly in Zone 3, where Lieutenant Quikshot’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry C is forced to abandon the eastern side of the clearing.

Zone 1

In the interest of conserving precious ammunition, Infantry Company B suspends mortar fire in their area. The Japanese renew their attack on Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B, but seem to have been weakened by the mortar barrage. With the assistance of Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Platoon, Armor B, the Marines are able to fend off the Japanese attack without difficulty.


Zone 2

Disturbing news reaches The Meat Grinder as radioman Boris is finally able to get through to our howitzer groups to the rear. “My Kapitan, “he shouts. “Ze big guns to us rears say we is out of range!”

Captain Coffee Warlord shifts the fire of his 81mm mortars to his eastern flank. Despite the mortar support, Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B are under fierce attack from the Japanese. The brave Marines are able to hold the line, but begin to sustain casualties from the repeated enemy attacks.

To the west, Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry D, continues to trickle into position, and the Stuart tanks of Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B, move up to the line to supprt Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon, Infantry D. The added support is a welcome sight, and forces yet another Japanese attack back into the trees.


Zone 3

To the west of the clearing, Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon, Infantry C and Lieutenant Tasan’s 3rd Platoon, Armor A, continue to fend off sporadic Japanese infantry advances without much difficulty.

The begins to deteriorate on the east side of the clearing, however. More bombardment of the area by the Japanese, followed shortly thereafter by enemy infantry attacks, all but route the USMC units stationed there. As three Stuarts from Lieutenant jfbbis’ 2nd Platoon, Armor A advance to the north, they soon encounter their fleeing comrades-in-arms, and move to cover the retreat of the infantry.

To the east, Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon, Infantry C begins a planned withdrawal to continue to cover 2nd Platoon’s flank. However, a couple of their squads are caught in the Japanese bombardment of the area.


Zone 4

In a move to help preserve his west flank, Captain ardent enthusiast orders the machineguns and 60mm mortar of Infantry Company A to be trained on the tree-line at the western edge of the rice paddy. This, combined with the timely arrival of 2 Stuarts from Captain WSUCougar’s Armor A Command, including the tank of the Captain himself, forces the Japanese back.

Infantry Company A also recalls its 81mm mortar fire from Zone 3, and trains them on the Graveyard to the east, where a heavy attack by the Japanese is mounting. Lieutenant Icjjdnh’s 1st Platoon, Armor A, and Lieutenant damnMikeBrown’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry A, poor deadly fire into the area, cutting down many of the enemy. But the Japanese are both numerous and stubborn, and keep the pressure on.


18:39 Hours


Zone 1

The Japanese continue their sporadic attacks against the line of Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B, but these attacks are easily repelled with assistance of Stuarts from Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Platoon, Armor B.

Lieutenant Blade’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry B and Lieutenant Jennings 3rd Platoon, Infantry B, have the luxury of sitting idly by, as the pressure on Zone 1 seems to have dissipated.

(Note: Unit displacement is the same as it was with the last screenshot, so no new shot is necessary).


Zone 2

Without the presence of the 81mm mortars on the western side of the zone, the Japanese attack with renewed vigor. Up and down the line, Marines from Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon, Infantry D and Stuarts from Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B, repel fierce attacks by the Japanese aggressors. To the far west of the zone, one of the Marine squads from Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry B takes particularly heavy casualties and is forced back deeper into the trees.

To the east of the corridor, heavy attacks by Japanese infantry continue, but with the combined fire of Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry D, Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B, and 81mm mortars, these attacks seem doomed to fail. But as the fighting wears on, the Marines begin to notice a particular change, as they no longer hear the crash and bang of the mortars.

“My Kapitan!” screams radioman Boris, “Ze mortars, they says they ammunition is kaput!” (Why does Boris suddenly sound more German that Russian?)

Also, ammunition for the 60mm mortar team is reported at about 10%.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1839_Zone2.jpg


Zone 3

The heavy Japanese bombardment has stopped, but enemy infantry continue to press the Marines withdrawing from the east side of the clearing. However, the presence of Lieutenant jfbbis’ tanks seems be helping to fend the enemy off, and the withdrawal from the area becomes a bit more orderly. The same is the case with Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon, Infantry C to the east.

Elements of Lieutenant Quikshot’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry C on the west side of the clearing are attacked again by Japanese infantry, but are able to fend off the enemy with little trouble.

And to the west, Japanese attacks on Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon, Infantry C and Lieutenant Tasan’s 3rd Platoon, Armor A intensify. The fighting, like so many other places across the line, is close-range and ferocious. Despite the close support of the Stuarts, the Marines of 3rd Platoon begin to take significant losses, but hold their ground.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1839_Zone3.jpg


Zone 4

Having been repulsed along the tree-line to the west, the Japanese once more renew their attack, this time straight across the rice paddy once again. And once again, the Marines of Lieutenant samifan24’s 1st Platoon, Infantry A and Captain WSUCougar’s Armor A Command fight them to a standstill. This does not come without cost, however, as casualties are sustained and one of Captain ardent enthusiast’s machinegun teams is wiped out.

Further to the east, the stubborn Japanese continue to attack across the graveyard, but accomplish little more than wasting ammunition and lives as Lieutenant damnMikeBrown’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry A and Lieutenant Icjjdnh’s 1st Platoon, Armor A cut them down.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1839_Zone4.jpg


ORDERS ARE NOW OPEN!

[damnMikeBrown]

O-1 damnMikeBrown: We're staying pat

What's up with the ammo truck? Get that thing revved up and over to that mortar team.

[Aesyrqwe]

Looks like me and Superman=#54 may need some support. Im going to keep my men in position for another turn, but if the agressors dont stop, we may need to pull back...

[Coffee Warlord]

1) Does the ammo truck carry additional mortar ammo? If so, take a guess what I want rearmed.

2) What's the word in the Corridor? Quiet?

Lieutenants, fall back if you need to. Hold if you can. If you start to give ground, make sure you don't expose my center's flank.

Mortar teams, hold fire. Conserve your ammo, unless there's a major trouble spot. If any team calls in for support, give it to them.

[DataKing]

The ammo trucks carry ammunition for the squad mortars (60mm), but not for the 81mms. (Actually, if you recall, one of the "house rules" was no ammo replenishment for the big artillery.)

The corridor appears quiet at the moment.

[Coffee Warlord]

Rearm the 60mm's, then. As for the corridor, I'm not keen on weakening my position there just yet, so we're sitting tight.

[Superman=#54]

I will stand and hold the right flank with Aesyrqwe for one more turn then I must retreat.

[sterlingice]

Looks like we helped quite a bit. We'll stay there as long as we can reasonably safely repel the attack. However if the mortars running out is significantly going to put us in danger, we can't risk losing the armor units and will be forced to fall back. Then again, if the mortars get refilled, no harm there. Good to see JeffNights's guys in place.

SI

[lcjjdnh]

Looks good where I am right now. Let's keep the pressure on 'em.

[Qwikshot]

Dig in and fire until the ammo is gone.

[Katon]

We've given enough ground. Let's hold our current positions for a while.

[samifan24]

I'm standing pat as well. Holding my ground.

[The Afoci]

Same here, hold position and blast the bastards to hell!

[Blade6119]

hold strong boys

[Poli]

As the crowd cheers:

"DE-FENSE, DE-FENSE, DE-FENSE"

"Hold that line!"

[Breeze]

Standing pat as ordered. SIR!

We will be prepared to fall back and support any other units in trouble.

Lt. Lackey

[Tasan]

Keep an eye to our east, if they start falling back, I don't want to get flanked by the Japanese, so we'll need to fall back too. Plus, the grunts seem to be taking losses so we might need to fall back a little to reorganize our defenses.

[Blade]

I am also holding my ground...now that things have quieted down for us. But we will stay sharp!

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Phillipines

December 11th, 1941

18:42 Hours

Heavy infantry attacks continue on all fronts. Despite inflicting heavy losses on the Japanese, our determined enemy keeps throwing troops into the fray. As losses amongst the Marines mount, including the first losses to the Stuarts, officers and men up and down the line begin to wonder just how long their Colonel will leave them out here to fight and die.

Author’s Note: Unit placement is pretty much unchanged since the last update, so no new battle maps are necessary this time around.

Zone 1

The Japanese seem to have only been catching their breath, as they attack The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B with renewed fury. With the continued assistance of Lieutenant bertogarce’s1st Platoon, Armor B, the Marines are able to hold the enemy at bay. However, the pressure continues to build.


Zone 2

Artillery shells from 81mm mortars and 75mm long-range guns begin to rain down on the positions of The Meat Grinder north of The Corridor. As Marines try to take what meager cover is available, a bit of misfortune strikes Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B. With a deafening THUMP, one of the shells lands squarely on top of Sergeant Puller’s Stuart tank, penetrating the armored hull and starting the mechanical beast on fire. Sergeant Puller bails from the vehicle and dives for cover as the on-board ammunition goes up with a tremendous explosion, killing the other three crewmen instantly.

The bombardment is followed up by yet another wave attack from Japanese infantry, both north and south of the corridor. Without suppression fire from the company’s empty mortars, the Marines are hard-pressed to keep the enemy at arm’s length, but are able to do so through grit, determination, and blood. The line wavers, but holds.

To the south, the ammunition truck moves towards the line to re-supply Captain Coffee Warlord’s 60mm mortar team, but has not arrived just yet.

Zone 3

Heavy attacks by the enemy continue all across the zone, but particularly on the western half. At least two full platoons attempt to charge Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon, Infantry C at the western edge of the zone. Some losses are sustained by the Marines of 1st Platoon, but close fire support from Lieutenant Tasan’s 3rd Platoon, Armor A continues to prove very valuable. Still, the Japanese press forward, mindless of their losses.

Around the clearing and to the east, the bloodied Marines of Lieutenant Quikshot’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry C and Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon, Infantry C halt their withdrawal and turn to face the enemy once again. With steely determination and heavy support from the Stuarts of Lieutenant jfbbis’ 2nd Platoon, Armor A, the Marines halt the small Japanese advance in it’s tracks.

The company’s 81mm mortar teams report low ammunition available (only about enough for three more minutes of sustained fire), and suspend their firing.

Zone 4

Despite heavy fire along the tree-line to the west from Captain ardent enthusiast’s 60mm mortars, the Japanese continue to press forward through the trees as well as across the rice paddy. The combined fire of Captain WSUCougar’s Armor A Command and Lieutenant samifan24’s 1st Platoon, Infantry A succeeds in holding the enemy at bay, but not without cost. The Japanese seem determined to take out our machinegun teams, and succeed in doing so here. Another MG team from Infantry A is destroyed, and Lieutenant O’Hern’s squad withdraws deeper into the jungle.

To the east, Japanese bodies are continuing to pile high in (ironically enough) the graveyard, as more fresh troops are thrown into the fray. The guns of Lieutenant damnMikeBrown’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry A and Lieutenant Icjjdnh’s 1st Platoon, Armor A throw off steam as raindrops touch their barrels. The volume of fire being thrown into the graveyard is truly a sight to behold. Further to the east, the men of Lieutenant Marino’s 3rd Platoon, Infantry A add their firepower as well, and cut down many of the enemy, but do sustain light casualties in the process.

The 81mm mortars assigned to Infantry A report a similar situation as those assigned to Zone 3. Enough ammunition remains for approximately three more minutes of fire.


ORDERS

“FOFC Brigade Captains, this is the colonel. Present situation untenable without proper fire support. Withdrawal orders forthcoming to each of you. But whatever you do, make it slow and PAINFUL! Make those bastards pay for every inch. Over and out.”

Zone 1

Withdraw approximately 150 meters south of your present position. Suggest shifting unengaged units slightly east to cover the withdrawal of Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B.

Zone 2

Withdraw 300 meters to the south, but not an inch more! We’ve got precious little room to work with in this area, but 300 meters should bring you within extreme range of our howitzers.

Zone 3

Withdraw approximately 400 meters to the south. Make it as slow as possible, but Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon, Infantry C may want to speed their withdrawal up a little bit, to draw even with 2nd Platoon.

Zone 4

I hate to give up an advantageous position like the one we have in zone four, but the other withdrawals of the remainder of the brigade will leave your left flank WIDE open. Withdraw half a click (500 meters) to the south, but no more than that. And like everywhere else, make it slow and make the bastards pay for it with blood!


ORDERS ARE NOW OPEN.

[sterlingice]

Withdraw 300 meters to the south, but not an inch more! We’ve got precious little room to work with in this area, but 300 meters should bring you within extreme range of our howitzers.

Ow! Well, what's gotta be done must be done. Pull back men, we've already lost 1 today. No time to mourn

SI

[Blade6119]

yah.....do as you see fit with your retreat, and tucker/tasan double time it!

[Kingsguard]

May I join the opening in Infantry B (RainRaven)?

[Breeze]

Withdrawing 300 meters as ordered.

Lt. Lackey

[Blade]

Originally posted by DataKing
Withdraw approximately 150 meters south of your present position. Suggest shifting unengaged units slightly east to cover the withdrawal of Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B.

I will shift my platoon east so I can assist during the withdrawl...

[Qwikshot]

Roger...will proceed to plan.

[samifan24]

Withdrawing as ordered, sir.

[Katon]

Falling back as ordered. You might want to get Boris to start trying to tell the howitzers what we're planning. It'd be nice if he actually managed to get through while there was still something for them to do! What is it with FOFC radio operators? Boris is as bad as the X-Com pilots!

[sachmo71]

All Broadswords, withdraw with the infantry, but try to keep in areas of maximum visibility to use the range of your guns to an advantage. Make no mistake that the Japanese infantry will be hot on the heels of our withdrawl. Try to set up a corridor of heavy fire to give the grunts a few extra minutes to move without being chopped to pieces. Remember to load the grunts up onto the tanks to facilitate quick movement.

Captain Coffee Warlord, I have a nice spot right up here on my tank for you if you would care to join us! :D

[Coffee Warlord]

Controlled withdraw. Flanks, fall back first, me and my armor support in the center will cover your retreat. I'll be right behind you.

Boris, you tell those idiots on the howitzers to fire the moment they are in range, you got that?

Ammo trucks, hurry the hell up. Any mortars with ammo remaining, launch supressing fire on the left and right (in order of preference), and then pray the ammo trucks arrive.

Sterlingice, don't break any more tanks.

[The Afoci]

Fall Back, if i can get some mortar fire to slow the enemy down during my retreat it would hopefully allow my men to regroup and get ready to hold again.

[DataKing]

Kingsguard: I'm not too keen on making any officer switches smack in the middle of a battle, but the position is yours once this messy fight is over with (assuming the brigade survives, that it :).

[Coffee Warlord]

You're scaring me DK. :)

Edit: Oh, and for my fellow Captains. If any of you can spare a round of 81mm mortar fire to cover my withdraw, I'll make sure you are well compensated next casino night.

[Tasan]

Platoon, cover the infantry fallback. Flanks, fall back first and make us a well to fall into. We'll pull the center back last. Find some good cover and "high" ground if possible to set up for the coming attack. Out.

[jfbbis]

So well said that i can only repeat :
"Platoon, cover the infantry fallback. Flanks, fall back first and make us a well to fall into. We'll pull the center back last. Find some good cover and "high" ground if possible to set up for the coming attack. Out."

[Blade6119]

DataKing: I will be leaving for vegas and will be gone through saturday night...please take over my duties until then...if not...

Third Company Lieutenants: Make them pay for every yard and retreat how you see fit...good luck boys. If we get into another battle afterwards, deploy your men well, fight hard, and when i get back i know i will be damn proud.

Semper Fi!

[DataKing]

Blade6119: Roger that. Have fun in Sin-City. :)

[Superman=#54]

Yes Sir!

I am retreating as ordered. Hey, Lt. Aesyrqwe I have a nice spot for you and your men on my tanks. Your men can be my human shields. I wouldn't want my tanks to get scratched by bullets and bombs. ;)

[damnMikeBrown]

What about smoke rounds for the mortars? If a mortar team is out of HE, do they still have smoke rounds left? I'd suggest maximum suppresion fire, combined with smoke on the graveyard. One inf platoon does a hasty retreat & entrenches in a position with a good field of view for covering fire(especially the MGs).

The other inf platoon does a combined slow withdrawl with the armor, so as to slow the Japanese advance through the tombstones.

Just my thought.

[DataKing]

Smoke rounds are an alternative, but are of limited use. They're designed to cut down on visibility, but visible range is already at a minimum.

[Aesyrqwe]

Ok boys lets fall back... Stick close to the tanks as they will provide some cover from any Japanese fire...

[WSUCougar]

"Platoon Commanders, Armor Company A, Fire & Ice: We are displacing 400-500 meters to the south. Coordinate with the foot grunts, don't leave anything hanging in the breeze. Withdraw at your discretion...repeat, withdraw at your discretion."

DataKing: If possible, displace my tanks to the rear in an overwatch manner. Two hold while three withdraw, or whatever works within the game system.

[sterlingice]

Coffee Warlord's orders through the reciever
Sterl...ice, do... bre... any m... tanks.

What was that? I can't hear you- the com is breaking up. We must have the old (new?) x-com radios in here.

SI

[Coffee Warlord]

Cap'n Coffee: Radioman Boris!

Boris: Da, Kapitan?

Cap'n: I demand the truth from you, Boris. Are you from the future, and did you work for Commander Kodos?

Boris: Kapitan? Am thinkink you are insane, comrade capitan.

Cap'n: Dammit boy, get rid of those X-Com radios! They're nothing but trouble!

Boris: Um......da, Kapitan?

Cap'n: Argh! Not the Sectoids!

[tucker342]

I'll fallback as DataKing suggested

[Tasan]

This sorely needs a bump, and an update!

[DataKing]

Originally posted by Tasan
This sorely needs a bump, and an update!

I'm putting the finishing touches on the next update as I type this. :)