The FOFC Brigate - Chapter 1: Rain and Blood

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Phillipines

December 11th, 1941

18:45 Hours

Orders are handed down, and to the relief of many a battle-weary Marine, the withdrawal begins all across the line…

Zone 1

Captain RainRaven’s Infantry Company B, with support from Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Platoon, Armor B, begins its withdrawal. Lieutenant Blade shifts his 2nd Platoon, Infantry B to the east a bit. That, combined with suppressing fire from the company’s 60mm and 81mm mortars, leads to Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B being able to withdraw with little difficulty.


Zone 2

The Japanese apparently have little desire to let The Meat Grinder withdraw peacefully. Heavy bombardment pounds Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon, Infantry D to the west of the corridor. This is followed up by a well-timed infantry attack by the enemy, turning Captain Coffee Warlord’s left flank into a confused mess. The Marines there are too busy dodging mortar shells and fighting for their lives, and are unable to withdraw. Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B and Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry D are able to withdraw in good order, however.

Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry D fares a bit better on the eastern flank of zone 2. With more fire support from Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B, the Marines are able to at least temporarily break contact with the enemy and fall back.

The company’s last 60mm mortar rounds are trained on the woods in front of the western flank, but seem to do little to slow down the enemy.


Zone 3

The withdrawal of Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon, Infantry C is facilitated by the firepower of Lieutenant Tasan’s 3rd Platoon, Armor A. The firepower of the Stuarts is sufficient to hold the enemy at arm’s length while the grunts manage to begin their fall-back. On the east end of the zone, Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon, Infantry C also has little trouble with their withdrawal, and see no signs of the enemy.

In the middle of the zone, Japanese infantry once again try to gain a foothold in the clearing, but are cut down by the retreating men of Lieutenant Qwikshot’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry C. With the Japanese artillery apparently concentrating their efforts elsewhere, Lieutenant jfbbis’ 2nd Platoon, Armor A and Captain Blade6119’s Infantry Company C are able to begin their withdrawal with little trouble.


Zone 4

At the edge of the rice paddy, Japanese mortar fire pins one of Lieutenant samifan24’s infantry squads from 1st Platoon, Infantry A and one of the Stuarts from Lieutenant Icjjdnh’s 1st Platoon, Armor A in place. Elsewhere, though, the men of 1st Platoon and Captain WSUCougar’s Armor A Command are able to begin their withdrawal in good order.

Further east, the last of Captain ardent enthusiast’s 81mm mortar shells land in the graveyard, allowing the Marines of Lieutenant damnMikeBrown’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry A and the rest of 1st Platoon, Armor A to break contact without incident. Japanese mortar fire does pin down one of the squads from Lieutenant Marino’s 3rd Platoon, Infantry A at the eastern edge of the graveyard, but the rest of the platoon is able to effect their escape as well.


18:48 Hours


Zone 1

The withdrawal of Captain RainRaven’s Infantry Company B continues without incident. With no evidence of the enemy in sight, the company once again suspends their mortar attacks in order to conserve ammunition.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1848_Zone1.jpg


Zone 2

To the west of Captain Coffee Warlord’s position, Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon, Infantry D continues to get hammered by Japanese artillery and infantry attacks. Heavy losses are suffered by the beleaguered Marines of 1st Platoon, but they are finally able to break contact with the enemy. For how long, though, is the question of the day.

Lieutent JeffNights 3rd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B are able to continue their withdrawal.

To the east, the Japanese are hot on the heels of Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B. Fierce fighting occurs along the line, and particularly around Lieutenant Superman=#54’s personal tank, but the Marines’ withdrawal remains unhindered.

The company’s 60mm mortar team reports the timely arrival of an ammunition truck. Lieutenant Ellis reports that, with the presence of the truck, they will be able to resume firing, but at a reduced rate. Basically, they’re pulling rounds off the truck and dropping them straight into the tube.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1848_Zone2.jpg


Zone 3

The withdrawal of Captain Blade6119’s Infantry Company C, along with the Stuarts of Lieutenant Tasan’s 3rd Platoon, Armor A and Lieutenant jfbbis’ 2nd Platoon, Armor A continues without hindrance, as the Japanese are apparently concentrating their efforts elsewhere.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1848_Zone3.jpg


Zone 4

While the rest of the troops from Lieutenant samifan24’s 1st Platoon, Infantry A and Captain WSUCougar’s Armor A Command continue their withdrawal, Sergeant Fernandez’ squad and Sergeant Dobbs’ Stuart remain pinned at the edge of the rice paddy. Forced into a rear-guard role, the Marines fight bravely, gunning down many of the numerous enemy in the hopes of being able to break free and rejoin their comrades.

Lieutenant damnMikeBrown’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry A and the rest of Lieutenant Icjjdnh’s 1st Platoon, Armor A are able to continue their withdrawal in good order. One of the squads from Lieutenant Marino’s 3rd Platoon, Infantry A remains pinned at the edge of the graveyard, but the rest of the Platoon is able to continue their withdrawal.

Captain ardent enthusiast’s 81mm mortar teams report that their ammunition is exhausted. Lieutenant Silva reports that his 60mm is down around 10% ammunition, but that an ammunition truck is on its way.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1848_Zone4.jpg


ORDERS ARE NOW OPEN

Remember: We aren’t retreating…we’re advancing in a different direction. :cool:

[Coffee Warlord]

Cap'n sachmo, I'd like you to roll a little ways to our left flank and help provide some covering fire. Take some pressure off those boys while they advance backwards.

Left flank, you've got help coming. Take your time, fall back and regroup.

Right flank, no new orders.

My unit will begin falling back. Keep an eye on our left and right sides, as I do not want japanese units splitting us down the sides. Since Sachmo is rolling left (unless he has alternate planes), I will keep focus on the right.

Mortar teams, fire at will. Get ready to get the hell out of dodge once we fall back some more.

[sterlingice]

Is there anything I can do to lay down fire for our retreating guys or anything to help?

SI

[sachmo71]

Roger that, Coffee.
HQ platoon, let's get on over to the left flank to provide some covering fire.

[DataKing]

Originally posted by sterlingice
Is there anything I can do to lay down fire for our retreating guys or anything to help?

SI

You could move your armor back up to a line parallel with Breeze's infantry, but that would mean exposing yourself to the enemy. It's your call.

[Poli]

I see no reason to continue our "advance" as usual. I'd like to continue to expend our mortar to provide a pretty distraction to aid our Marines.

[sterlingice]

You could move your armor back up to a line parallel with Breeze's infantry, but that would mean exposing yourself to the enemy. It's your call.
Considering my track record for evasion and their track record for aim, it's probably best I hang back and get to the smokes that were mentioned earlier.

SI

[samifan24]

Any chance WSU and I can get any support? We're getting blow to pieces up here!! Where's radioman Boris when you need him?

[Coffee Warlord]

Radioman Boris is the exclusive property of Meat Grinder, Inc.
And reproductions, retransmissions, or accounts of his operation without the express written consent of Captain Coffee Warlord is prohibited.

Besides, he's using X-Com radios. What the hell you want him for. :)

[Qwikshot]

I'll stick where I'm at.

[WSUCougar]

Hey DK,

Can we get a Zone 4 map? We've mistakenly got two of Zone 3.

I'd also like a status report on my 2nd Platoon, Lt. jfbbis.

Thanks!

[Tasan]

Keep provideing fire for the infantry around me, but watch for those assaults on the tanks, we don't want to lose one now.

[jfbbis]

"I'd also like a status report on my 2nd Platoon, Lt. jfbbis."
back in reserve, apparently. I don't know why, my last orders were to get to a firing position. i can go anywhere from there, just ask

[DataKing]

Originally posted by WSUCougar
Hey DK,

Can we get a Zone 4 map? We've mistakenly got two of Zone 3.

I'd also like a status report on my 2nd Platoon, Lt. jfbbis.

Thanks!

My bad. The map for Zone 4 is now up.

Also, just so you all know, the withdrawal is not complete yet. It may not have sounded like it in the write-up, but you are still in the process of withdrawing. So I am going to ignore the orders to hold up.

I'll give you guys a little more time to give and adjust orders, but I am hoping to advance the game a little more late tonight.

[The Afoci]

Keep falling back to rain ravens line and attempt a second delay of the japanese advance....

[DataKing]

Originally posted by jfbbis
"I'd also like a status report on my 2nd Platoon, Lt. jfbbis."
back in reserve, apparently. I don't know why, my last orders were to get to a firing position. i can go anywhere from there, just ask

Maybe the last write-up was a little unclear. Jfbbis, your Stuarts are still withdrawing with 2nd and 3rd Infantry Platoons. Armor moves pretty slow through the heavily jungle terrain, and with the visibility as low as it is, good firing positions are harder to find than honest politicians.

ORDERS ARE NOW CLOSED.

I am going to continue the withdrawals. I don't want anyone to feel like I am usurping command or anything, but I think the impression was given that the withdrawal is complete. It is NOT.

Sorry for the confusion, if there was any. It's pretty complex turning all of these orders into in-game actions, and trying to keep it all straight at the same time. I'm working on it. :)

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Phillipines

18:51 Hours

The withdrawal is mostly complete on the far western edge of the line, in Zone 1, and the pinned-down units in Zone 4 are able to extract themselves from the situation and rejoin their brethren. Things continue to go smoothly in Zone 3 as well.

But things go from bad to worse in the middle, as The Meat Grinder is proving to be an apt nickname for Infantry Company D…

Zone 1

The 150 meter withdrawal of Captain RainRaven’s Infantry Company B concludes smoothly, and the men begin to dig in as best they can and find new cover.

The Marines of Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B soon hear the reports of Japanese rifles and machineguns, however. Men duck for cover before realizing that they are not the targets. (See the write-up for Zone 2). Shortly thereafter, the piercing whistle of howitzer rounds overhead dominates, as American 75mm Howitzer shells blanket the area just to the north of 1st Platoon.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1851_Zone1.jpg


Zone 2

The situation continues to deteriorate on the left flank of Captain Coffee Warlord’s Infantry Company D. While Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B have been able to withdraw in relatively good order, the same cannot be said for Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon, Infantry D. As Captain sachmo71 shifts his Armor B Command group to the west to help out, some of the men from 1st Platoon, including Lieutenant Breeze himself, are able to withdraw a short ways into the woods. But not all of the Marines are able to do so, and continue to be pinned down by Japanese attacks.

Suddenly, rifle and machinegun fire bursts forth from the trees to Lieutenant JeffNights’ left. He and the rest of his squad duck for cover, but one of the Marines is struck squarely in the chest and falls silent, his chest a mass of red. The delay in the withdrawal of Zone 2 has created a gap with Zone 1, and the Japanese have moved to exploit the gap. As fire is exchanged, Lieutenant sterlingice’s Stuarts join the fray. Fortunately, a barrage had already been planned for the area the Japanese have moved into, and 75mm howitzer rounds begin to fall on the area.

As Captain Coffee Warlord and his men begin their withdrawal, Radioman Boris delivers more bad news to his captain. The company’s 60mm mortar is broken, apparently guilty of a faulty round, similar to what befell Infantry Company C to their east.

The one good piece of news in all this mess is that Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B are withdrawing in good order on the eastern flank.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1851_Zone2.jpg


Zone 3

Things appear to be relatively quiet, at least for the moment, on the western edge of Zone 3, as Lieutenant tucker342 and Lieutenant Tasan are able to continue their withdrawal without incident.

Japanese infantry continue to appear in the clearing in the center of the zone, slowly gaining ground, but the Marines of Lieutenant Qwikshot’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry C succeed in making them pay dearly for every foot they take. The open ground in the clearing is littered with the bodies of dead and dying Japanese.

Light infantry elements are also encountered to the east of the clearing, but the combined fire of Lieutenant Katon’s 3rd Platoon, Infantry C and Lieutenant jfbbis’ 2nd Platoon, Armor A are able to fend them off with ease.

The withdraw continues with little difficulty.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1851_Zone3.jpg


Zone 4

The Marines of Captain ardent enthusiast’s Infantry Company A pause, hoping to lend what support they can to their comrades trapped under fire back to the north.

The squad from Lieutenant Marino’s 3rd Platoon, Infantry A that had been trapped at the edge of the graveyard are successful in fending off the enemy and disengaging. They double-time it to the south and are able to catch up with the rest of 3rd Platoon.

To the west, well-placed and timely firing from the company’s 60mm mortar team disrupt the Japanese in the rice paddy, giving the squad from Lieutenant samifan24’s 1st Platoon, Infantry A and the pinned-down Stuart from Lieutenant Icjjdnh’s 1st Platoon, Armor A enough time to disengage. Marines scramble onto the hull of the Stuart, and the metal monster peels off into the jungle, rapidly catching up with the rest of A Company.

As all of this has been going on, the Japanese have pressed across the graveyard, and have reached it’s edge. They engage some of the Marines of Lieutenant damnMikeBrown’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry A at range. Light losses are sustained by both sides of the firefight, but the Marines of 2nd Platoon and Stuarts of Lieutenant Icjjdnh’s 1st Platoon, Armor A are able to hold them at bay.

http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1851_Zone4.jpg


Status

Zone 1

Your withdrawal is pretty much complete, and you can now call upon close (read: mildly hazardous) fire support from the howitzers we have at our disposal. Mortar teams report ammunition is running at about 50%. Now that you have howitzer support, I would like to suggest you “lend” your 81mms to the Meat Grinder. They can use the help. ;)

Zone 2

Your left flank is in big trouble. You’ve got Japanese to the front and on your left side there. The one saving grace may be that the enemy on the left side are within extreme howitzer range, but are mighty close to JeffNights’ troops and some of sterlingice’s tanks.

Oh, and by the way, your 60mm is busted.

You guys get to have all the fun. :D

Zone 3

Things are going relatively well. You’ve completed about 150 meters of your 400 meter withdrawal (keeping it slow and painful for the Japanese). The 81mms report that there is enough ammunition for about 3 minutes of firing. Use it wisely.

Since I am acting as interim-Captain during Blade6119’s absence, I will suggest that the withdrawal continue on. We seem to be doing pretty well so far, although this means abandoning the last of our positions at the edge of the clearing. We’ll save our last 81mm ammunition for an emergency.

Zone 4

Holding up looks to have been the right move. The squads that were pinned down earlier have been able to withdraw and catch up with their parent units. However, the 60mm mortar is empty and the ammo truck has yet to arrive (it is having trouble finding its way in the difficult terrain).

ORDERS ARE NOW OPEN.

Semper Fi!

[Coffee Warlord]

God I hate you DK. :)

[Coffee Warlord]

Dola!

Orders.

Radioman Boris, get through to Zone 1 command, tell them I would appreciate them to drive the Japanese straight into us. Delaying them from pressing us would be nice, but keep them coming. We'll be waiting.

Left flank, full retreat right back towards the center. I will be setting up a defensive position with my platoon, and cutting the Japanese up while you get the hell out of dodge. Retreat to our left side and set up defensive position, as I do not want them cutting off our rear.

Mortar teams, you're fired. I'm shipping you to the Coast Guard.

ANYONE with 80mm mortars, GIVE ME THEM.

Right flank, I'm taking my machine gun unit back. Tell those boys to double time it to set up defensive position with me for protection vs the coming onslaught. I'd also appreciate your teams moving a little bit towards me, to provide at least a little corridor spotting.

Boris, once you're done talking with Zone 1, tell the howitzers to keep firing.

Open to alternate suggestions if you have them, Lieutenants.

edit: Oh, and keep the Ammo Track around. I imagine some of us are getting low on ammo. Get ready for a reload if necessary.

[Qwikshot]

I'll follow the commanders orders but I'd like to dig in like a bulldog on a burgler's leg (with his teeth people)

[lcjjdnh]

Just want to get my men caught up with the rest of the guys

[The Afoci]

Meat Grinder, If i can, I will try to relieve the pressure on your flank. If I could advance enough to effect the japanese flank and help meat grinders fall back, do that.

[samifan24]

Thanks for the mortar support, boss. Awaiting orders.

[Superman=#54]

Its a little hot in this tank. I just made a fresh batch of brownies. Anybody want some. You guys on the left flank look like you could use a nice fresh and hot brownie.

I will make sure that machine gun unit takes you over a couple of batches of my brownies. Tell me if you like them or not. ;)

[sachmo71]

Lt. Bertogarce,

I'd love it if you could move up into the gap between 1st Platoon, Infantry B and the left flank of the Meat Grinder and hit the Japanese attacking the flank. It seems like that little clearing should provide you with some visibility to hit their flanks and at least divert their attention.

All other Broadsword elements, continue as ordered. Lt. Sterlingice, stay with me here and let's get these grunts out of trouble. Button up and watch out for friendly artillery. One hit on the top and you are spam in a can, got me?

MOVE OUT!

[Poli]

Sorry about my delay in responding, but aloha means goodbye as well.

Delaying worked last time, let's regroup and try to take some heat off the LT DMB. We're almost in the clear.

LT Samifan, if you can lend some support to LT DMB, I'd appreciate it. It's your call, or actually, DKs.

Ultimately, I'd like some fire support to help LT DMB to clear out.

[Breeze]

Falling Back as ordered! SIR!

[DataKing]

Just wanted to let you guys know that you can expect the next update to this sometime tonight. I've been a little distracted the past few days (bought Hearts of Iron :) ).

[samifan24]

DK- I'm ready to offer support. Where do you want me?

[Blade6119]

Dk, im back so i can resume command of my group.

[DataKing]

samifan24: We'll slide you over towards dMB's position if necessary, but I think I can get them to break contact on their own.

Blade6119: Roger that, and welcome back.

ORDERS ARE NOW CLOSED.

I'm advancing the game. Expect the next update sometime tonight.

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Phillipines

18:54 Hours

Three of the four zones assigned to the intrepid Marines of the FOFC Brigade remain under Japanese attack, as the withdrawal continues. Fierce, close-range fighting rages, and one of our companies suffers a tragic loss and blow to morale…

Zone 1

While most of Captain RainRaven’s Infantry Company B dig in to the best of their ability, Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Platoon, Armor B and elements of Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B shift slightly to the north, in an attempt to take pressure off of The Meat Grinder’s left flank.

But the Japanese are apparently not satisfied with only attacking Infantry Company D. As Marines and Stuarts move slowly to the north, including Lieutenant The Afoci himself, they come nearly face-to-face with Japanese infantry! A fierce firefight ensues, and our brave Marines prove the better, forcing the enemy back deeper into the jungle.

|http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1854_Zone1.jpg


Zone 2

On the right flank, Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B shift slightly to the west. As they are on the move, however, more of the seemingly endless Japanese infantry emerge from the dense jungle, hitting the center of the line. The fighting is fierce and brief, as the firepower and marksmanship of the Marines and Stuart tanks once again forces the Japanese back.

On the left flank, Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon, Infantry D is finally able to fully break contact with the enemy, and withdraw towards the center, where they take up positions with Captain sachmo71’s Broadsword Command. Further to the south, Marines of Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B are able to join up and form a line facing the gap to the west.

Just as these maneuvers are completed, our Japanese pursuers emerge from the trees, and are met by a hail of lead. All of the units on the left flank get in on the action, with Lieutenant sterlingice’s own Stuart tank right in the middle of it. 81mm mortars “borrowed” from Infantry Company B to the west add their weight to the fray as well. Light casualties are sustained by the Marines, but they do not budge an inch further.

With his machinegun teams on their way over from the right flank, Captain Coffee Warlord’s Infantry D Command platoon attempts to move into position to help. Suddenly Japanese burst out of the trees to the north. The cacophony of bullets, grenades, and screams is nearly defeaning to the Marines. The Captain himself pulls his .45 and moves to fire, but then is suddenly tackled by a Marine shouting something unintelligible. At the same moment, machinegun fire rips through the air.

Captain Coffee Warlord recovers his senses and moves the now figure of the Marine that gave his life to save him. As the body turns over, he sees that it is Radioman Boris, with a strange smile upon his lifeless face.

Boris is not the only casualty suffered by the men of the platoon, and they are forced to move back to the southwest to evade their attackers. To make matters worse, the howitzers fall silent once more.

|http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1854_Zone2.jpg


Zone 3

Strangely enough, things fall completely quiet in Zone 3, as the men of Captain Blade6119’s Infantry Company C and elements of Captain WSUCougar’s Armor Company A continue to fall back to the south.

Is this the calm before the storm?

Note: No zone map is necessary, as the withdrawal is going according to plan.


Zone 4

Stuart tanks from Lieutenant Icjjdnh’s 1st Platoon, Armor A are quick to react to the threat from the edge of the graveyard. Lending their considerable firepower to the fight, they are able to force the Japanese who had been pressing Lieutenant damnMikeBrown’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry A back out of visible range. 2nd Platoon and Lieutenant Marino’s 1st Platoon are able to continue their withdrawal without difficulty.

Things heat up a bit at the western edge of the zone, however. As Captain WSUCougar’s Armor A Command and Lieutenant samifan24’s 1st Platoon, Infantry A continue their withdrawal, they are engaged. The enemy has apparently reached the edge of the rice paddy and further south into the trees. Lieutenant samifan24 himself, as well as other Marines from the platoon, find themselves ducking for cover as bullets wiz past overhead. The Marines return fire, and with help from Captain WSUCougar’s tanks are able to hold the enemy at bay.

|http://home.attbi.com/~j.hoag/Snaps/1854_Zone4.jpg


STATUS

Zone 1

The Meat Grinder has “borrowed” about half of your remaining 81mm mortar rounds, though the 60mm remains at about 50%. The right flank is under attack once again, but the howitzers not firing may be a blessing in disguise. The howitzers are firing at such extremely range that the men from 1st Platoon and the Stuarts that moved forward may be in harm’s way. You can hold your currently position if you like, but the howitzers will have very little room for error, and there is the distinct possibility of “blue-on-blue.”

Zone 2

JeffNights and sterlingice were able to form a nice defensive line on the left flank, and the right flank is withdrawing under fire pretty well. But now there are Japanese in the middle again, and they’re forcing Coffee’s command platoon back with losses. Also, the machinegun teams are at least a few minutes away yet.

Zone 3

All is quiet, as I mentioned. But with the lousy visibility, the enemy could be right on our heels and we wouldn’t even know it. Approximately 200 of the 400 meter withdrawal is complete.

Zone 4

There is a way to go yet in the withdrawal, and the Japanese are attempting to keep contact wherever they can. The Stuarts are proving invaluable, as their firepower is helping immensely to keep the enemy at arm’s length.

ORDERS ARE NOW OPEN.

Semper Fi!

[Blade6119]

keep movin boys....if they dont want to hit us, well let them hold back

[Tasan]

Keep truckin the other way Platoon!

[Blade6119]

looking at the maps, i see datakings men behind coffee....where have ya been the entire day we were holding strong?

[Breeze]

Company...fall back with the Broadswords, but look to offer assistance in the middle if needed.

Boris is dead! Man that sucks...that Russian owed me $50. Somebody grab me the X-com radios. I'll see if I can't trade them for some Scotch.

[sachmo71]

Broadsword elements:

Continue local support of the infantry. Withdraw in good order and do not leave the crunchies behind. Prepare to fire at point blank range...in this jungle, with rain, they will be on top of us before we know they are there.

[Katon]

Originally posted by DataKing
Suddenly Japanese burst out of the trees to the north. The cacophony of bullets, grenades, and screams is nearly defeaning to the Marines. The Captain himself pulls his .45 and moves to fire, but then is suddenly tackled by a Marine shouting something unintelligible. At the same moment, machinegun fire rips through the air.

Captain Coffee Warlord recovers his senses and moves the now figure of the Marine that gave his life to save him. As the body turns over, he sees that it is Radioman Boris, with a strange smile upon his lifeless face.


Alas, poor Boris! Incoherent to the last.

[Coffee Warlord]

Dammit! We're going to have to place an order for a Scottish radioman, next.

Orders...we'll keep it simple. My team will continue to fall back until we meet up with the machine gun unit coming up, at which point we dig in and hold.

Lt's, I'm displacing like mad over here. Do what you gotta do, just keep the openings in our line covered while I'm moving around.

[Superman=#54]

Yes Sir!

I will continue to retreat as ordered.

SIR YES SIR!

[tucker342]

Originally posted by Blade6119
keep movin boys....if they dont want to hit us, well let them hold back


SIR YES SIR!!!!!!!

[Godzilla Blitz]

Someone say they need radiomen?

We got lots of 'em doing nothing while X-Com is on break.

Real quality guys, every one of 'em.

We hire only the best.

Just let me know if you need one of 'em, and I'll time warp him back.

I can send him with his radio, too, if you want.

[Coffee Warlord]

GET AWAY! AWAY WITH YOUR EVIL XCOM RADIOS! BACK! HISS!

[Katon]

Actually, I think we've already got one of your radios. Want it back?

[tucker342]

update?????

[The Afoci]

When do we get to have shock and awe????

[Coffee Warlord]

He's busy grinding up more of my company. :)

[DataKing]

<removed by DataKing>

[DataKing]

Actually, my previous post is not entirely accurate. Please take a look at the poll I have started, asking about the appropriateness of this sort of dynasty report, given the current situation in Iraq.

[DataKing]

I am closing this thread for the time being, and will not be advancing the story-line for a while. For an explanation as to the reason for this, please check out this poll. (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/~fof/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6937)

[sachmo71]

I understand. Broadswords...dismissed!

[tucker342]

hey that's completely cool. Come back whenever you're ready!

[DataKing]

Atten...SHUN!

I'd like to get this dynasty back up and running again shortly. I feel that I am comfortable with the subject matter once again, and would like to return to the fun I was having running the game and writing the report. In light of that, two things:

1. I want to make sure that our company and platoon commanders are still out there and interested in participating. Please sound off to let me know whether or not you are still interested.

2. When I do get this up and running again (assuming there is still interest), I will probably pick up the pace a little bit, and run more than a turn or two at a time whenever possible. Otherwise, we will all be little old FOFCers by the time the war is over. :) Let me know your thoughts on this, if any.

I will probably be out of town this weekend, so I will be looking to get this started again early next week.

That is all. Dismissed.

[Coffee Warlord]

Captain Coffee Warlord and the Meat Grinders are at your command.

[Katon]

I'm still here.

[Blade]

I am definitely still here and ready to go!

[sachmo71]

Broadswords are ready to come out of cryogenic sleep.

[sterlingice]

Broadsword 3rd Platoon CO: Lieutenant sterlingice reporting back for duty, Colonel old man. And it's good to see sachmo71 made it back because a commanding Captain's a good thing to have.

SI

[The Afoci]

Ready and now armed with Crawfish.

[DataKing]

Originally posted by The Afoci
Ready and now armed with Crawfish.

The next time we run out of mortar rounds, we can lob angry, and I mean angry, crawfish at the Japanese. Brilliant! :D

[lcjjdnh]

Still here

[Superman=#54]

Back for more crack err... I mean action. Yea thats it! ;)

[Aesyrqwe]

Lt. Bootlicker Reporting for duty Sir!

-Aes-

[Qwikshot]

We're knee deep in gore, but we're ready.

[tucker342]

ready for action sir!

[Poli]

Anchors...shoot.

I mean...

Semper Fi

Or something.


:)

[Breeze]

LT. Lackey...I mean Breeze, Reporting for duty.

[DataKing]

Just an FYI. I have played the next few turns, and should have the write-up done late tonight. But first, The Sands of Iwo Jima is on and I must watch it. Should give me some good material. :)

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Phillipines

The battle rages on, and the withdrawal continues across much of the front. The Japanese press the Marine lines hard, particularly in the west. The line draws dangerously thin in spots…

18:57 Hours

Zone 1

There remains no action on the west side of the zone, as the Japanese do not appear to be attempting to flank us. The same cannot be said for the east side of the line, however. Lieutenant The Afoci’s command squad and Lieutenant bertogarce’s own Stuart tank fight off a squad of enemy infantry that emerge from the trees. But as soon as those troops are forced back, more of the persistent enemy emerge, and a fierce firefight ensues. One of the men from Lieutenant The Afoci’s squad catches a bullet in the throat, and expires with a wet gurgle, but the Marines hold the line.

Zone 2

The action remains fast and furious in Zone 2, as the withdrawing troops of Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B and Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry D catch harassing fire from the northwest. The superior firepower of the Marines is able to force the enemy to hold back, but soon mortar fire begins to drop among the Marines.

In the center, Captain Coffee Warlord’s Infantry D command squad is able to pull back in good order, thanks in no small part to the assistance of the Stuart tanks of Captain sachmo71’s Armor B Command, who fend off another small Japanese attack up the middle.

In the meantime, the machinegun teams from Infantry D hop onto the hulls of Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B, and are quickly transported to positions near their captain. The withdrawal of the armor and Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry D continues with little trouble.

Zone 3

The withdrawal of C Company and their supporting armor continues, and no contact is made with the Japanese.

Zone 4

The west edge of Zone 4 sees some action, as the brave Marines of Lieutenant samifan24’s 1st Platoon, Infantry A fend off a probe by the Japanese as they fall back. Shortly thereafter, Japanese infantry attempt to swing into position on the left flank, but are easily beaten back, thanks in no small part to the superior firepower and marksmanship of Captain WSUCougar’s Armor A Command.

The withdrawal of the rest of A Company continues unhindered.


19:00 Hours

Zone 1

Japanese troops continue to press The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B and Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Platoon, Armor B. They seem to be attacking in waves, oblivious to the losses their own men are sustaining. The fighting remains fierce, and at close range. 1st Platoon, Infantry B sustains two more casualties, but hold their ground.

Zone 2

The heavy mortar fire on the western edge of the zone causes a couple of casualties among the Marines, but still most are able to continue their withdrawal. Not all, however, as one of the squads from Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry D are firmly pinned in place, unable to move without threat of being immediately cut down.

The withdrawal continues smoothly across the rest of the area, however.

Zone 3

The relative silence in Zone 3 is broken quite suddenly, as a full platoon of Japanese infantry burst forth from the trees in front of Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon, Infantry C and Lieutenant Tasan’s 3rd Platoon, Armor A. A brief and vicious firefight ensues. Two Marines fall, but our boys give better than they get, and the Japanese are forced to fall back and regroup.

The rest of the troops of C Company continue their withdrawal without incident.

Zone 4

Mortar shells begin to fall in the area abandoned by the men of Lieutenant samifan24’s 1st Platoon, Infantry A mere moments before. Other than that, the withdrawal continues smoothly.


19:03 Hours

Zone 1

The fighting is furious for the men of Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B and Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Platoon, Armor B. Heavy Japanese mortar fire hits the right side of the line, and the unfortunate Marines there do not escape unscathed. As soon as the mortars let up, Japanese infantry charges forward yet again. The Marines are being tested, both mentally and physically, by the repeated charges, and the line is growing dangerously thin. One squad of Japanese even gets close enough to attempt an assault on one of Lieutenant bertogarce’s Stuarts, but fortunately it fails.

Shortly after the most recent Japanese attack melts away, the welcome sound of howitzer shells greets the ears of those Marines with intact eardrums. The elation at the sound suddenly turns to horror, however, as some of the shells land among the Marine positions…

http://home.comcast.net/~j.hoag/Snaps/1903_Zone1.jpg

Zone 2

The withdrawal in the middle of the zone goes with little hindrance, but both ends are struck by the Japanese. The pinned squad from Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry D, commanded by Sergeant Huck, are hit hard from the west, sustaining casualties, and are forces east, north of the line, in order to elude their attackers.

At the same time, the far right side of the line is struck, as the Japanese suddenly and violently attack the men of Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B. One of Infantry D’s squads, at the far right of the line, are mauled by rifle and machinegun fire from the enemy, and only two men are able to stumble away from the carnage intact.

http://home.comcast.net/~j.hoag/Snaps/1903_Zone2.jpg

Zone 3

One squad of Japanese infantry strike at Lieutenant tucker342’s 1st Platoon, Infantry C and Lieutenant Tasan’s 3rd Platoon, Armor A. The Marines do suffer one casualty before beating back the enemy, but are able to continue their withdrawal.

The rest of Infantry C continues to back off unmolested.

http://home.comcast.net/~j.hoag/Snaps/1903_Zone3.jpg

Zone 4

All contact seems to have been broken with the Japanese, at least for the time being, and the withdrawal continues unhindered in Zone 4.

http://home.comcast.net/~j.hoag/Snaps/1903_Zone4.jpg
STATUS

Zone 1

1st Platoon is getting worn down quite rapidly, and are also in considerable danger of suffering from “blue-on-blue.” Something needs to be done to help them, Captain RainRaven.

The 60mm mortar team reports that their rounds are nearly spent. The 81mm mortar teams have only enough ammo left for a few minutes of sustained bombardment.

Zone 2

Sergeant Huck’s squad is out there in no man’s land, but you risk additional troops if you send someone out there to help them out. It’s your call, Captain Coffee Warlord.

One thing that you do need to do is shift some troops to the southeast, about 100 yards or so. A small gap has developed between your zone and zone three, and we can’t risk having the Japanese slip through the crack.

Also, you’ve got about another 100 yards to withdraw before the howitzers can give you any direct help in the middle or the right side.

Zone 3

The withdrawal is going well, all things considered, but you do have another 200 yards or so to go yet.

The 81mm mortar teams report that they have enough ammo left for about 3 minutes of sustained fire.

Zone 4

Contact has been broken and all is going well. About 300 yards to go yet, though.

ORDERS ARE NOW OPEN!

I’ve got a busy couple of days planned, so I will not be able to get back to this until Sunday. You have until then to post your orders.

Semper Fi!

[Aesyrqwe]

Me and my men are up for the challenge of covering that gap. If I can get Lt. Superman's Tank support to help me out there, I'm sure we'd do a whole hellava lot better.. Also I could get some payback from shooting up my squad like they did..

-Aes-

[sterlingice]

If my armor are too far back to help then never mind, but I'd like to help those in Zone 2 if I can and if it's not suicide. Then again, does an armor unit aid in escape or just get risk getting destroyed and getting in the way?

SI

[Coffee Warlord]

Originally posted by Aesyrqwe
Me and my men are up for the challenge of covering that gap. If I can get Lt. Superman's Tank support to help me out there, I'm sure we'd do a whole hellava lot better.. Also I could get some payback from shooting up my squad like they did..

-Aes-

You want it, you got it. My machine gun team will cover your rear while you advance.

"Radioman O'Brian! Get your irish butt up here and call Sergeant Huck. Tell him to sit tight and that help is on the way."

"Aye, but Cap'n. You said it yourself. You nay be sending help to the lads just yet."

"They don't need to know that. I won't risk it until we have our flanks secured. Until then, we're still withdrawing, and they are still on their own."

[sachmo71]

I will personally move Broadsword's command platoon to get that pinned squad out of danger. Anyone who wants to come along is welcome! Let's go get our boys!

VROOM! VROOM! Listen to those Detroit engines whine! LET'S GO!!!

[Superman=#54]

I'll do what Lt. Bootlicker wants.

Let's get this going!

[DataKing]

ORDERS ARE NOW CLOSED.

I am advancing the game now. Look for the next update later tonight (Monday).

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Philippines

Despite heavy losses, it appears that the tide may finally be turning in the west, as the Marines are finally able to bring the full weight of their artillery to bear. However, the same cannot be said for other points along the line, as the withdrawal continues, and the line grows a bit precarious at points…

19:06 Hours

Zone 1

Mortar fire continues to rain down on the heads of the Marines in Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B. The incessant Japanese attacks are close to creating a breach, despite the best efforts of the Marines from 1st Platoon and the Stuart tanks of Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Platoon, Armor B. Lieutenant Jennings’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry B is ordered to shift to the east, directly behind the men of 1st Platoon, in case a retreat is necessary.

This shift happens not a moment too soon. As the mortar fire lets up once more, what seems like hordes of the enemy set upon the Marines. Attacking in platoon strength at the very least, the attackers take heavy casualties, but the Marines of 1st Platoon have been simply worn down. One squad is reduced to a mere pair of healthy Marines, who are forced to withdraw. Shortly thereafter, Japanese troops swarm over one of the Stuarts from 1st Armored, tossing a live grenade into a hatch and blowing the machine to pieces.

The disruption of the lines and the heavy casualties they have sustained leaves 1st Platoon with no choice but to fall back.

Zone 2

Radioman O’Brian throws down his X-Com radio in disgust.

“It’s no bloody use, cap’n. I kinna get Sergeant Hoock on tha blasted radio. I might as well be usin’ two ration cans an a wee bit o’ string, for all the good these damn things do us.”

Captain Coffee Warlord attempts to digest this information, and wonders where exactly O’Brian materialized from in the first place. Shortly thereafter, a throaty roar is plainly heard, and the three Stuart tanks of Captain sachmo71’s Armor B Command go rushing past, back towards the north and the enemy. One hundred meters to the north, Captain sachmo71 opens his hatch and watches as five hollow-eyed Marines, including one very relieved-looking Sergeant Huck, emerge from the jungle and scramble onto the hulls of the tanks. The tanks immediately shift into reverse gears and back out of the area, the gunners unleashing a hail of machinegun fire to discourage any pursuit by the Japanese.

Shortly thereafter, Captain sachmo71’s Stuarts return to their previous firing positions, and the Marines jump off. Sergeant Huck flashes a weary grin at Captain sachmo71 as he gathers his men.

“Thanks, Cap! Owe you a beer!” With that, the Marines match south, and soon rejoin their platoon-mates.

No sooner do the Marines disappear into the jungle, then two squads of Japanese infantry emerge from the trees in pursuit. The superior firepower of the machinegun teams in the area and the Stuarts easily cause these units to withdraw, however.

At the same time all of this is going on, the Marines of Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry B and Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B, are hastily shifting to the southeast in order to cover the gap which has developed with Zone 3. Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s men move to fill the gap, and quickly find themselves in a sharp engagement with a platoon of Japanese infantry, no doubt attempting to exploit the gap. With the aid of the Stuarts, the Marines are able to fight the Japanese to a stand-still.

Zone 3

The Marines of Captain Blade6119’s Infantry Company C continue their withdrawal largely unmolested, although a trailing squad from Lieutenant Qwikshot’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry C does exchange relatively harmless gunfire with what appears to be a Japanese probing squad.

Zone 4

Zone 4 remains quiet as the men of Captain ardent enthusiast’s Infantry Company A continue their withdrawal. Some Marines get all the luck. ;)


19:09 Hours

Zone 1

Seventy-five millimeter howitzer shells begin to hammer the area just recently vacated by the retreating Marines of Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B and Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Platoon, Armor B. This, combined with supporting fire from the company’s machinegun teams, allow the remnants of 1st Platoon to join the Marines of Lieutenant Jennings’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry B unmolested.

Zone 2

Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B are finally able to complete their withdrawal, and form a line well inside of the extreme range of the Marines’ howitzers. Lieutenant Breeze’s 1st Platoon, Infantry D are also able to get clear, and begin to shift to the east to even out the lines. Marine howitzer shells begin to fall to the north, as the artillery boys are finally able to earn their keep, and hopefully keep the Japanese off of the Marines’ backs.

Things do not go as smoothly to the east, however. With continued and valuable fire support from Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B, the men of Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s platoon are able to complete their shift, but still have ground to cover to the south before they can come within the artillery umbrella. Unfortunately, they still appear to be in danger of enemy bombardment, as 81mm mortar shells and 75mm cannon shells begin to land within their ranks. The bombardment is fierce, and at least two Marines are wounded by the numerous explosions.

Zone 3

More gunfire is exchanged between Marines from Lieutenant Qwikshot’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry C and pursuing Japanese troops, as the Marines scramble to get out of the open ground which they have found themselves upon. Lieutenant jfbbis dispatches one of the Stuarts from 2nd Platoon, Armor A to provide fire support for the Marines.

Otherwise, the withdrawal continues without incident.

Zone 4

Quiet as a tomb.


19:12 Hours

Zone 1

Some enemy troops appear to have slipped through the bombardment to the north, and attack the line. These troops appear to have been rattled, at the very least, by the shelling, and are easily forced back by the fresh Marines of Lieutenant Jennings’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry B and the four remaining Stuarts of Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Platoon, Armor B. Many of the Marines from Lieutenant The Afoci’s 1st Platoon, Infantry B have managed to slip back from the lines, welcome for any respite they can find, however brief.

http://home.comcast.net/~j.hoag/Snaps/1912_Zone1.jpg

Zone 2

Marine howitzers continue to shell the between Zones 1 and 2, lending their assistance wherever they can, and it seems to be doing the trick here. Only one small attack is mounted against the western part of the line, and is easily driven back by Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B.

The same cannot be said for the eastern part of the line, where Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B still remain outside of friendly artillery range. The fierce bombardment by the Japanese continues, holding the Marines in place. Rifle and machinegun fire are added to the cacophony by the Japanese. To their credit, the grunts and the tank crews do their best, and hold the Japanese at bay, despite being pinned.

http://home.comcast.net/~j.hoag/Snaps/1912_Zone2.jpg

Zone 3

The Japanese probing efforts in the center of the retreating line turn into a full on attack. The Stuart tank of Sergeant Franco, dispatched by Lieutenant jfbbis to support the grunts, lends its considerable firepower to the exchange. While many Japanese are cut down, the tank Marines in the immediate area are outnumbered, and the squad caught on open ground is quickly cut down. Sergeant Franco continues to cut loose on the enemy positions, as the few able-bodied Marines remaining from Sergeant Easter’s squad run past and out of harm’s way.

Things remain quiet across the rest of the zone.

http://home.comcast.net/~j.hoag/Snaps/1912_Zone3.jpg

Zone 4

The Marines in Zone 4 continue their march to the south without contact by the Japanese.

http://home.comcast.net/~j.hoag/Snaps/1912_Zone4.jpg

STATUS

Zone 1

The entire area is now safely under the umbrella of friendly artillery fire, and enemy contact seems to be dying off because of that. Lieutenant Jennings’ platoon has taken the place of Lieutenant The Afoci’s platoon on the line, giving The Afoci’s men a chance to regroup.

A few precious mortar rounds remain for the 60mm and 81mm mortars. I have yet to hear from Captain RainRaven, so I am releasing command of the mortars to the individual platoon commanders.

Zone 2

We’re in good shape in the western portion of the zone, where the howitzers are now pounding the area to the north. A fairly contiguous line is nearly completed.

To the east, however, Lieutenants Aesyrqwe and Superman=#54 are in a fair amount of trouble. They’re pinned down, at least for the moment, and unless the enemy bombardment lets up soon, they could easily find themselves in a very tough, close-range fight. They still need to withdraw about 100 yards before artillery support in the area is a safe possibility.

Zone 3

One squad did get caught in the open during the retreat, but the rest of the troops in the area are under pretty good cover. There are definitely Japanese troops at the other end of the open area, but we have no idea where else they might be in this zone.

You still need to cover about another 100 yards before the howitzers can be brought to bear. You do have a few 81mm mortar rounds left, though.

Zone 4

You guys must be living right, because you’ve had it the easiest by far. No contact with the enemy for some time now. The eastern edge of the zone only needs to fall back another 50 yards or so. Captain WSUCougar and Lieutenant samifan24 are a little behind, however, and still need to cover about 150 yards.

ORDERS ARE NOW OPEN!

Semper Fi!

[sterlingice]

Should I got help out in the eastern side of zone 2 or should I just hold out where I'm at because we're doing well?

SI

[sachmo71]

Broadsword, cover the infantry, and DO NOT LEAVE ANYONE BEHIND!

[Coffee Warlord]

If the Broadswords and the squad they just rescued can cover the position I'm about to weaken, Meat Grinder Command is going to attempt to flank the Japanese pinning down my boys to the east.

As soon as you guys can get your asses back to (relative) safety, do it.

No new orders for the rest of you. Sit tight, and FIND ME A DAMN RADIO THAT WORKS!

[Superman=#54]

My good ole tank holding off the enemy forces. I am doing fine what ever happens make sure the Japanese do not get close enough to blow up my tank.

My tank is to purty to be blown up!

[Breeze]

Lt. Lackey ready to move help the Broadswords cover our area.

[DataKing]

Coffee Warlord: I little clarification would help me. Do you intend to swing east, behind 2nd Platoon, and then north up the right side? Or do you intend to move north, then east down the line in front of 2nd Platoon?

Either way, your E.T.A. on foot is around 15-20 minutes. This is rough terrain and combat conditions. Rapid movement isn't really an option (a limitation of the game, really. No "sprint" command).

[Coffee Warlord]

The former, DK. (cut around from behind option) If you are of the opinion that theres no way in hell we'd make it in time to do a damn bit of good, let me know, and I'll scrap the plan.

[DataKing]

It depends on how long the Japanese bombardment of the area lasts. We have yet to see any of their area bombardments last for a significant amount of time (conserving ammunition, most likely), so we'll see. If the bombardment stops, they should be able to get themselves moving again. Bombardments have caused short-term pinnings thus far, but we've yet to see anything long term. I think playing it by ear is the best course of action at the moment.

[Tasan]

Lt. Tasan back for action, sorry, I feel asleep in the tank for a bit there.....;- )

And Dataking, your inbox is full.

[DataKing]

Thanks for checking in, Lieutenant Tasan. Glad to have you back.

And thanks for letting me know about the inbox. I've cleared it out.

[Coffee Warlord]

In that case, we'll sit tight for now. If bombardment keeps up, we'll go in as planned. If it stops, get them the hell outta there. My guys can cover their retreat if possible.

[jfbbis]

Unless my captain thinks otherwise, I'll make a come back to help Qwikshot.

[Blade6119]

Originally posted by jfbbis
Unless my captain thinks otherwise, I'll make a come back to help Qwikshot.

im not your direct captain, but since wsu is over in zone 4 and hasnt responded, ill take over as the only captain in zone 3. Id say move some, but not all of your tanks over to support, and lets unleash some of thse 81 mm mortar rounds on those attackers. I want as many men alive as possible from my marine groups, and i believe this is the best way to go about this.

[WSUCougar]

~~~STATIC~~~"This is Captain WSUCougar, radio check? Anyone read me, over?"~~~STATIC~~~


"I'm picking up your traffic now, gents. Lt. jfbbis, defer to Captain Blade6119's wishes as directed. The rest of Fire & Ice will continue our withdrawal and hope to position ourselves to support the flank of Zone 3 ASAP. Cougar out."

[jfbbis]

ok, I send 2 more Stuart to support Qwikshot.

[Coffee Warlord]

Sergeant O'Brien!

"Aye, Cap'n?"

"Radio Zone 3, inquire if sending anyone under Lieutenants Tucker or Tasan to ease some pressure off my eastern flank is a possibility. They should be the closest to the enemy position."

"I dinna think we have the power to reach them, Cap'n! Agh! But Aye, I'll be trying! Damn these bloody X-Com radios! Whoever made these needs a good scottish boot up their fookin arse!"

[Qwikshot]

Nothing like some tanks and mortars to help cover our tails...

[Tasan]

If tacticly feasable, send 1-2 tanks from the trailing edge nearest Coffee Warlord to flank the attack there.

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

If you guys need a new Squad leader or Platoon leader I'll be glad to be it .

[Tasan]

oh and if a round or two of our mortar fire can reach and be of help, fire away

[The Afoci]

I am not sure on what to do, dying has seemed to work ok up until now, so I will stick with that.

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

Beautiful write up on the comat across the pacific .

[tucker342]

When is the mission over? It's going to be even better when we have the chance to go on the offensive, which will hopefully be in the next battle...

[DataKing]

tucker342: The mission is over when we break and retreat, or the Japanese decide they've had enough of the FOFC Brigade and concentrate their efforts elsewhere. From a realism standpoint, we have no idea how long the battle will last. (OOC, expect another three updates or so before this one ends. :) ).

CHEMICAL SOLDIER: Thanks much for the compliment. As far as getting a command goes, we can probably accomodate you, once the battle is over.

So far, I have heard back from everyone except bertogarce and JeffNights in one form or another. RainRaven will probably be shipping state-side once we've finished fending off the Japanese here. We will adjust the roster accordingly when we are relieved. Sony has expressed interest in a command as well, along with a couple of others that I know IRL.

I also want to apologize for the delay in posting this week. It's been a busy one. Between running the turns, creating the screenshots, and writing the report, it takes a good four hours to put one of these things together. That being said, I should have the next update posted tonight (Saturday) or tomorrow.

Semper Fi!

[Coffee Warlord]

I'm gonna be running around ragged this weekend, with relatives coming into town (ugh), a wedding to goto (ugh), and my girlfriend possibly coming in as well (yay!).

Assuming I have little time this weekend, Lieutenants, you're on your own. Captain Sachmo (Or the Colonel himself) will issue orders to my command unit if necessary.

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

See you soon and be safe on your endevours .

[DataKing]

Luzon, The Philippines

The withdrawal of the FOFC Brigade nears its completion all across the line, and the weight of American artillery can finally be brought to bear. But will it be enough to stem the seemingly endless tide of Japanese soldiers throwing themselves at the weary Marines?

19:15 Hours

Zone 1

American 75mm howitzer shells continue to slam home to the north of the Marines in Zone 1. The artillery seems to be doing its job of harrying and slowing the Japanese down. One enemy squad manages to gain sight of the Marines at the eastern end of the zone, but the (comparatively) fresh Marines of Lieutenant Jennings’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry B and the Stuart tanks of Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Platoon, Armor B easily dispatch them.

Zone 2

On the western end of Zone 2, some Japanese infantry manage to stagger through the hellish blasting of the Marine artillery, but cannot get any further. Voluminous and accurate fire from Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B force the Japanese back out of sight with little trouble.

Things continue to look dire to the east, however. As Captain Coffee Warlord takes his Infantry D Command to the east, attempting to move into flanking position, Japanese infantry attack Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B on both edges. In a classic pincer-attack movement, the Japanese succeed in keeping the Marines pinned down and unable to move.

Zone 3

Lieutenant Tasan orders the Stuart tanks commanded by Sergeants Isaac and Wilder to move northwest, in an effort to out-flank the flankers of The Meat Grinder’s 2nd Platoon. The tanks do not get very far, however, before they encounter more Japanese infantry. Without infantry support, and fortunate to have not driven into an ambush within the dense foliage, Isaac and Wilder decide that discretion is the better part of valor. They shift their tanks into reverse and lay down fierce machinegun fire, covering their own withdrawal.

Lieutenant jfbbis likewise orders a pair of his own Stuarts from 2nd Platoon, Armor A to shift. Sergeant Killingsworth and Lieutenant jfbbis himself move into the open area in the middle of the zone and lay down a withering fire on the suspected positions of the pursuing Japanese.

The last of the Company’s 81mm mortar rounds are used, as the shells slam home on the positions of the Japanese attempting the pincer attack in Zone 2.

Zone 4

The men of Captain ardent enthusiast’s Infantry Company A and the supporting armor of Captain WSUCougar’s Fire and Ice continue to thank their lucky stars that they seem to have drawn easy duty. Their withdrawal continues unhindered.


19:18 Hours

Zone 1

Despite the sustained artillery fire that the Japanese are being subjected to, a number of the enemy are still able to attack the lines at the eastern edge of the zone. Much to the chagrin of the Japanese, though, the Marines of Lieutenant Jennings’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry B and Lieutenant bertogarce’s 1st Platoon, Armor B are well-prepared, and easily scatter their opposition.

Zone 2

The Japanese bombardment at the eastern end of the zone finally comes to a halt, and the battered Marines of Lieutenant Aesyrqwe’s 2nd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant Superman=#54’s 2nd Platoon, Armor B breathe a sigh of relief as they are finally able to continue their withdrawal.

Light contact is reported on the western edge of the zone, but nothing that Lieutenant JeffNights’ 3rd Platoon, Infantry D and Lieutenant sterlingice’s 3rd Platoon, Armor B aren’t capable of handling.

Zone 3

Captain Blade6119’s Infantry Company C have now withdrawn into the Marine artillery umbrella, and immediately call for fire support from the 75mm guns to the rear. Howitzer shells begin to slam home, particularly in the middle of the zone, and seems to stop the pursuit of the Japanese in its tracks.

Zone 4

The zone remains quiet, as the men of Captain ardent enthusiast’s Infantry Company A are close to completing their own withdrawal, without sight or sound of the enemy.


19:21 Hours

Over the crash of artillery to the north, the Marines of the FOFC Brigade begin to hear high-pitched whistles through the dense jungle. First one, then another. The whistles seem menacing at first, and the Marines brace themselves for the worst. Could this be some sort of signal by the Japanese, preparing for one last, vicious onslaught in an attempt to break through?

The Marines take whatever cover they can find, staring down the barrels of their rifles, BARs, and machineguns, searching the dense jungle for any sign of their pursuers. The minutes seem to take hours, and drag on and on. But no attack comes. The artillery from both sides falls silent.

Soon a half an hour has passed, and still no attack has come. Gradually the word passes down that those were signal whistles for the Japanese to withdraw, though how far back is unknown.

The brave Marines of the FOFC Brigade are ordered to hold the line throughout the night, and seek out whatever shelter they can muster from the persistent rain. Short-range patrols are sent out, but no sign of a living enemy is to be found. These patrols find many bodies of the fallen enemy, as well as a few Marines who were apparently left behind, wounded rather than killed as their companions thought. These men are dead now, unfortunately, stabbed repeatedly by the sharp steel of Japanese bayonets.

The Marines spend a somber, wet, and thoroughly miserable night in the jungles. Most are incapable of sleep, no matter how hard they try, having been blooded in combat for the first time. Friends and comrades are wounded or dead, causing a quiet, somber determination to settle through those that still stand.

The Japanese had started this war, but the Marines of the FOFC Brigade were dawn sure that they would be the ones to end it.

Semper Fi!

[sachmo71]

Whew!

[DataKing]

After-Action Report

On the morning of the December 12th, 1941, the Marines of the FOFC Brigade are relieved by fresh troops coming up from the south. As a result of the pitched battle and the casualties sustained by the Brigade, they are withdrawn to the rear for some well-deserved rest. Gradually, replacements are drawn from other units, as some other formations have been so badly bloodied that they have been disbanded, the survivors dispersed amongst the rest to act as replacements.

The final count for the Brigade is 59 killed, 74 seriously wounded, and 7 listed as “missing in action.” Two of the Brigade’s Stuart tanks were also lost, along with their crews of four.

Exact numbers of Japanese killed and wounded are impossible to determine, but after speaking with all of his officers, Colonel DataKing estimates the number to be somewhere in the neighborhood of 800-1,000. Some hold that this is an optimistic number, while others maintain that the real number was well over 1,000. It is likely that the true numbers will never be known.

The Brigade is commended for holding the line, despite superior Japanese numbers and poor fighting conditions.

FOFC Brigade Losses by Unit

Armor Company A (total losses: none)
-Command Group (Captain WSUCougar): none
-1st Platoon (Lieutenant icjjdnh): none
-2nd Platoon (Lieutenant jfbbis): none
-3rd Platoon (Lieutenant Tasan): none

Armor Company B (total losses: 2 M3 Stuarts, 8 men)
-Command Group (Captain sachmo71): none
-1st Platoon (Lieutenant bertogarce): 1 M3 Stuart, 4 men
-2nd Platoon (Lieutenant Superman=#54): none
-3rd Platoon (Lieutenant sterlingice): 1 M3 Stuart, 4 men

Infantry Company A (total losses: 17 men)
-Command Squad (Captain ardent enthusiast): 1 man
-1st Platoon (Lieutenant samifan24): 4 men
-2nd Platoon (Lieutenant damnMikeBrown): 2 men
-3rd Platoon (Lieutenant Marino): 1 man
-Machinegun Platoon (Lieutenant O’Hern): 9 men
-Mortar Platoon (Lieutenant Silva): none

Infantry Company B )(total losses: 18 men)
-Command Squad (Captain RainRaven): none
-1st Platoon (Lieutenant The Afoci): 10 men
-2nd Platoon (Lieutenant Blade): none
-3rd Platoon (Lieutenant Jennings): none
-Machinegun Platoon (Lieutenant Ortega): 8 men
-Mortar Platoon (Lieutenant Sprague): none

Infantry Company C (total losses: 41 men)
-Command Squad (Captain Blade6119): none
-1st Platoon (Lieutenant tucker342): 12 men
-2nd Platoon (Lieutenant Qwikshot): 8 men
-3rd Platoon (Lieutenant Katon): 10 men
-Machinegun Platoon (Lieutenant Gates): 10 men
-Mortar Platoon (Lieutenant Jackson): 1 man

Infantry Company D (total losses: 42 men)
-Command Squad (Captain Coffee Warlord): 2 men
-1st Platoon (Lieutenant Breeze): 11 men
-2nd Platoon (Lieutenant Aesyrqwe): 13 men
-3rd Platoon (Lieutenant JeffNights): 11 men
-Machinegun Platoon (Lieutenant Easter): 4 men
-Mortar Platoon (Lieutenant Ellis): 1 man

The rest of the Brigade’s losses were sustained by our support troops.


Timeline

December 13th, 1941

A U.S. naval task force under Rear-Admiral Frank J. Fletcher sets sail from Pearl Harbor with orders to relieve Wake Island.

December 14th, 1941

Japanese troops continue to land throughout the Philippines.

December 22nd, 1941

The Japanese land 43,000 troops of General Homma’s 14th Army in Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, 150 miles north of Manila.

December 23rd, 1941

The Japanese launch another attack against Wake Island, overwhelming the small U.S. garrison. Immediately after its capture, the Japanese rename the island as Bird Island. Rear-Admiral Frank J. Fletcher’s task force is still more than 400 miles away and so is diverted to Midway.

American and Filipino troops of the North Luzon Force begin to fall back towards the River Agno under heavy pressure from the Japanese.

December 24th, 1941

Japanese troops make further landings on Luzon to the southeast of Manila in Lamon Bay.

The Japanese 16th Division starts its drive north towards Manila.

General MacArthur announces his decision to withdraw his forces to Bataan. A supply base is to be set up on Corregidor with sufficient stock to carry on the fight for six months.

December 26th, 1941

The Philippine capital of Manila is declared an open city by the Americans.

December 27th, 1941

The Australian Prime Minister, Curtin, announces “Australia looks to America.”

December 31st, 1941

Admiral Chester W. Nimitz is appointed to command the U.S. Asiatic Fleet, while Lieutenant General George H. Brett takes command of U.S. forces in Australia.


While all of this is going on, the FOFC Brigade is not sitting idly by. They are engaged in small holding actions, skirmishes, and patrols against the Japanese, but are not involved in any major entanglements.


Unit Upgrades

American has been at war for mere weeks, and it is unlikely that any new equipment would be sent as far as the Philippines. However, we can make some small improvements with what is on hand. We don’t have that much leeway, but can make some requests. Our two lost tanks have been replaced, but there is nothing more advanced than the M3 Stuart available for our armored troops. In truth, it will probably be some time before a replacement for the M3 is brought into service. We can, however, make some changes to the infantry.

We cannot add to the size of the Brigade, but can change the armament to a small degree. I would like to hear the opinions of our officers regarding what we should seek. Here is what is available:

Infantry

BAR Squad: Replaces a standard Marine infantry squad with a BAR squad. BAR squads have one less man than a standard infantry squad (8 men instead of 9), but have slightly improved firepower, adding a second BAR to the squad’s armament.

Engineer Squad: Engineer squads add one man to the standard infantry squad (10 men instead of 9), and also give access to a few satchel charges. The downside is that the satchel charges are heavy, slowing the squad down by about 10%.

Machineguns

.30 cal HMG: Enhances the standard .30 caliber machinegun with an improved tripod and better cooling system. Better accuracy and rate of fire than our standard .30 caliber medium machineguns (MMGs).

.50 cal HMG: Obviously, the .50 caliber has significantly better killing power than the .30 caliber, and is even capable of penetrating light armor. The weapon and ammunition are considerably heavier, however, slowing the unit down by 25% and carrying 25% less ammunition.


Depending on the decisions we make, we can make improvements to between 15 and 30 squads in the Brigade. If you have an opinion as to where we should place our priorities, let me know and it will be taken into consideration.

Semper Fi!

[sachmo71]

I'd like my tanks replaced, please.

[DataKing]

Don't worry about the lost men and armor, anyone. We've received replacements from other disbanded units.

[sachmo71]

Can I get some T-34s? :)

[DataKing]

Originally posted by sachmo71
Can I get some T-34s? :)

I'm afraid not. Unfortunately, lend-leese only works one way (the exception being the occasional Russian radio-man). ;)

Edited because, despite my English degree, I can't spell. :p

[The Afoci]

I think I could use some flack jackets.

[Coffee Warlord]

Indeed. I need a replacement for Radioman Boris. Radioman O'Brien just ain't cutting it, so I'm demoting him to company Goat Herder, 3rd class.

Putting in the paperwork for the transfer of Radioman Vlad!

Edit: And I do suggest we get at least one unit of Engineers and a 50 caliber team. Both could come in handy.

[WSUCougar]

Memo

To: Captain sachmo71

From: Captain WSUCougar

Re: Armor Replacements

Please be more careful with the brigade's AFVs. Losing them is unacceptable. If you cannot keep track of your tanks, we are going to stop giving them to you.

Signed,

The Management

:D Semper Fi!

[sachmo71]

My I respectfully remind the Captain that MY tanks were lost in the thick of combat, not providing Marines with a mobile rain shelter, unlike some people's tanks! :P

[jfbbis]

.30 cal HMG: Enhances the standard .30 caliber machinegun with an improved tripod and better cooling system. Better accuracy and rate of fire than our standard .30 caliber medium machineguns (MMGs).

They look like a must-have. What is the price to pay ?

[Coffee Warlord]

Memo:

From: Captain Coffee Warlord
To: Captain WSUCougar

Re: Armor Replacements

A certain Captain Sachmo was in heavy action and saved some of my boys who were in trouble. There will be no whining about losses of tanks in battle, or we repossess your alcohol supply. I seem to remember more than a few gambling debts your company has accumulated.

Thank you, and have a nice day.

USMC Gaming Commision

PS - Try fighting without a thousand pounds of steel between you and the enemy sometime, ya wimp. :)

[Blade6119]

Originally posted by Coffee Warlord
PS - Try fighting without a thousand pounds of steel between you and the enemy sometime, ya wimp. :)


lets look at the stats to back up this info:


Armor Company A (total losses: none)
-Command Group (Captain WSUCougar):

Infantry Company D (total losses: 42 men)
-Command Squad (Captain Coffee Warlord):

i think coffee had it a bit harder:rolleyes:

[sterlingice]

Originally posted by sachmo71
My I respectfully remind the Captain that MY tanks were lost in the thick of combat, not providing Marines with a mobile rain shelter, unlike some people's tanks! :P

Uh, captain, could you harass DK into replacing the two tanks we lost?

SI

[DataKing]

I think you guys may have missed it, but the lost tanks have been replaced. What I was talking about earlier regarding the armor is that no upgrades are available, nor will there be for a while (the M3 Stuart is the most advanced tank in the U.S. arsenal right now).

jfbbis: You asked about the price to pay with the .30 caliber HMGs. There isn't one, really, they're equal to or superior to our MMGs in every way.

The only downside is that they, like everything else, take up a certain number of the "upgrade points" we have available to us. I don't want you guys to concern yourselves with the nitty-gritty details of the game, so I have excluded details on the upgrade points we have and how much things cost. They're less "expensive" then the .50 cals, I'll tell you that much.

Carry on, Marines.

[sachmo71]

Ok, so isn't it possible that the Russians might have sent us a couple of prototype T-34's? And somehow they wound up in our unit? Maybe? Please?

EDIT: Just an observation...the machine gun teams will not be as effective on the attack. But Engineer Squads sure are...

[Katon]

It's probably worth taking, say, an engineer squad and a BAR squad per company just so that we can have some available if we need them. Beyond that, I would vote for upgrading everything to .30 HMGs. I don't think the extra power of a .50 is worth the loss of upgrade points, ammo, and (especially) maneuvrability.

[tucker342]

I agree Katon

[DataKing]

I keep having trouble finding the time for this dynasty. I enjoy doing it, but other games (Hattrick and others) keep distracting me. I just want you all to know that I am not giving up on it, but updates and the like may be a bit infrequent. Summertime is always pretty hectic.

Promotions and New Officers

Captain RainRaven has been shipped stateside, and I have decided to promote The Afoci as Captain of Infantry Company B.

Lieutenant bertogarce is AWOL (I have not heard from him).

Four people have approached me regarding commands: Aylmar, Chevalier, CHEMICAL SOLDIER, and sony. We have one armor platoon available, and should have room for the other three of you are infantry lieutenants. Let me know your preference, if any, and I will assign commands accordingly.

Of the three infantry platoons available, two of them are under Captain The Afoci and one of them is under Captain Ardent Enthusiast.

As soon as I have your preferences, I will update our roster and shift things forward to January, 1942.

Carry on.

[The Afoci]

I feel sorry for anyone under me... [insert your own joke here please]

[tucker342]

ewwwwwwww