Dogs Of War Vu

Network of Friends => Theater of Operations: World at War => Topic started by: choppinlt on August 27, 2016, 10:51:54 PM

Title: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on August 27, 2016, 10:51:54 PM
All, I apologize for such a large gap with few posts. The plan was to get this scenario rolling much sooner, but that just didn't happen. I was also hoping to have some good programming updates, but I have no news there either. In a sense we have been idle for a few months, though I can assure you I have been making some progress in a number of different areas.

Among other things I have created the scenario visuals using the excellent Vassal engine with a considerable amount of time and effort. It's not perfect, but it is good enough to effectively display this scenario. I will continue to tweak things as we go along, but you should get a real feel for what I am trying to accomplish. So I will have 2 threads for this scenario: one for the Americans and one for the Germans. This scenario will implement various different game algorithms such as combat resolution, command delays, detection, and artillery fire missions. These items still require thorough play-testing which can only be achieved once we have an alpha version well under way. Needless to say we are not there yet, so that means I am applying all algorithms manually using spreadsheets to calculate various things, and using my Vassal scenario to plot it out. This scenario will also highlight the multiplayer concept for TO. We currently have 3 players all geographically separated, with 2 American players and a German player. I am only playing the role of "computer". If we have any takers we can show how battles can be played using a different game and inputting results. For instance if we have some Combat Mission players that want to play out a battle that develops, we can do that! Game turns will proceed for 2 game hours, at which time the players will have the opportunity to tweak/issue new orders.

So without further ado...

0600 11 JUL 44 SitRep- Today we unleash our offensive with the goal of taking St. Lo. The 115th regiment is in line formation occupying a large frontage. 2nd battalion is occupying an area further west, and is not immediately available. A and B companies are currently disorganized (amber cohesion indicator) due to a pre dawn attack from the FSJ. 116th is in column and poised to be the primary attack force. The 3rd battalion has 2 attached tank companies plus an engineer company, while the 1st and 2nd battalions only have an engineer company attached. The 175th is entirely in reserve, but is available and awaiting orders. They can be used to help exploit any success that the 116th has during their assault. We have an excellent supply situation with an adequate number of replacements. The division has been in constant enemy contact since June 6, but is in good condition to conduct the attack. Lastly, while we have undisputed air superiority, though weather has prevented airpower from being decisive recently. Expect more of the same weather, though airpower will be on standby when the weather clears. You have 1 week to take St. Lo, now make it happen.

Enemy Intel- the enemy we have been facing continues to be a weakened regiment of Fallschirm troops, almost exclusively. They are well trained, well led, and highly motivated. They have proven excellent in defending the hedgerows, however they have been in continuous combat for a month with little respite, limited resupply, and virtually no replacements. Due to the complications from hedgerow fighting they have been able to continually form new lines of resistance with prepared defenses as we overwhelm the previous position. Furthermore, the Fallschirm are widely spread, and only show the ability to conduct limited local counterattacks to date. The Germans know the importance of St. Lo, so expect possible enemy reinforcements the more we threaten St. Lo.

Player orders for game start: the immediate plan is to attack on a wide front when 1/115 is ready. In the mean time, the "dogs of war" (i.e. artillery) will be used to harass German positions and pin them. 4 batteries of 105's are given the Harass Fire Mission, with 1 battery engaging each company position. Notice I said "battery" (i.e.firing element). Each battalion had 3 batteries and players can coordinate a fire plan for each battery. The remainder of the arty will be on counter-battery and opportunity fire missions.

The battle is on, stay tuned for results! For more details regarding this scenario you can visit http://dogsofwarvu.com/forum/index.php/topic,2157.0.html (http://dogsofwarvu.com/forum/index.php/topic,2157.0.html) As always, feel free to ask questions.

(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/USSetup.png)
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on September 04, 2016, 06:57:29 PM
Current time 0800 Hours

Turn 1 Staff Report: 1/115 lies idle recovering its cohesion. Full cohesion is anticipated around 1200 today. In the mean time 4 batteries of 105's put harrassing fire on the 4 known German positions (i.e.1 battery each location) for the entire turn in attempt to pin any potential German movements. In all, over 3000 lbs of ordnance were expended on the German positions. No enemy movement was detected, and there was no other action to report.

0800 Plan of Action: the artillery will continue its harrassing fire in hopes of limiting German movements.

We have already deviated from history without an initial assault. It seems the Americans are in a "hurry up and wait" mode as 1/115 continues to recover.

(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT1.png)
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on September 07, 2016, 04:04:18 PM
Current Time 1000

Turn 2 Staff Report: this turn is a virtual repeat of Turn 1. The 4 batteries of 105’s continue their harassment of the 4 front line German companies by expending another 3000+lbs of ordnance. There is no other artillery fire since no enemy movement was detected. There was no other action this turn except A/115 and B/115 recovers to “degraded” cohesion.

(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT2.png)

1000 Plan of Action:Cohesion recovery for A and B Companies of 1/115 is progressing as anticipated. With this in mind the American commanders will now give orders to unleash their plan. It is hoped that the combined efforts of a simultaneous general attack will be worth the initial delay. Assignments are as follows: 3/115 will attack south against the right divisional boundary with artillery support from A/92 and 115 Cannon Co. A, B, and C companies of 115 will NOT recombine in to a single integrated battalion. They will attack as independent companies (i.e. less efficient). Each of these companies will have 2 batteries of 105's for arty support provided by 110 FAB and 111 FAB. 3/116 will attack southwest supported by B/92 and 116 Cannon Co. 2/116 (the main assault) will then move south attacking down the left divisional boundary supported by 224 FAB and 227 FAB. 1/116 will follow behind in reserve. 967 FAB will remain in general support. The primary purpose of all attacks are to pin and dilute German efforts while the main assault by 2/116 attempts a breakthrough. The general attack is set to kickoff at 1200 hours, and it will be preceded by a bombardment at 1145.

Game Note-orders are given now to account for command delays. The average command delay is 45 minutes. but there are many factors that affect this...mostly factors that create longer delays. So the orders are given now so the attack can kick off at noon.

(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT2B.png)

The front is about to explode....Stay tuned for the results!!


Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on September 16, 2016, 07:54:42 PM
Current Time 1200 Hours

Turn 3 Staff Report-Harrasing fire continues until 1145 when all the American artillery roars to life at once in a preparatory bombardment of the German positions. 24 155mm howitzers, 48 105mm howitzers and 24 4.2-inch mortars combine to expend over 14 tons of ordnance in 15 minutes. 227 FAB and 224 FAB concentrate fire on the German company occupying the position on the far right flank (as we view the battlefield). Moving from right to left, 111 FAB, 116 Cannon Co, and B/92 concentrate on the next German position.  110 FAB and A/92 concentrate on the next German position, and finally the 967 FAB and the 115 Cannon Co. I illustrated where the artillery was concentrating on the map (the yellow dashed lines). As the artillery roars, 2/116 and 1/116 start approach movement to close the gap behind 3/116 in it's prelude to the assault. In the mean time A and B of 115 fully recover to good cohesion. Ready or not, here we come...

1200 Plan of Action-the orders have been given, now all we can do is watch as the plan unfolds and await results. Stay tuned...

(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT3.png)
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on September 26, 2016, 03:36:14 PM
Sorry about the slow turn around, but there was A LOT of things going on this turn...

Current Time 1400 Hours

Turn 4 Staff Report: As planned, the Americans start their general assault immediately following the artillery bombardment. At 1216 C/115 makes first contact with the enemy. After a sharp engagement C/115 ceased its attack at 1317 hours. It suffered 12 casualties, made no advance, and is currently recovering from degraded cohesion. Of special note the Germans in this area received indirect fire support from a battery of 120mm mortars.

At 1224 3/115, A/115, and B/115 make contact with enemy forces. 3/115 is still conducting its attack, and is meeting strong resistance. They have advanced less than 200m, and their attack is anticipated to end prior to 1430. (This is a way of saying that the unit is going to run out of impetus). Game Note: more information is not given because it is still conducting the attack and has not had time to give proper reporting. A/115 was able to give better reports because their attack ended over 30 minutes ago.

A/115- this engagement was resolved using Advanced Squad Leader(ASL). The Americans advanced 200m and suffered 10 casualties. They are currently recovering from degraded cohesion.

B/115 ceased their attack at 1330 hours after suffering 11 casualties and advancing 100m. They are currently recovering from degraded cohesion.

At 1240 hours 3/116 made contact with the enemy. Their attack is still under way, but they are meeting strong resistance. They have advanced less than 200m so far and their attack is anticipated to end before 1500.

At 1248 hours 2/116 makes contact with the enemy. They are still conducting their attack, and are meeting strong resistance. They have advanced less than 200m so far and their attack is anticipated to end before 1530.

Game Note: all American units had a Persistence Level of ‘Determined’. You can visit the forum thread talking about persistence for more information, but ‘Determined’ is the all-purpose level. Stubborn persistence means that a unit is willing to suffer major casualties in attempting to reach its objectives. Cautious means that a unit is more willing to give ground and preserve casualties.

Unit Dispositions at 1248 Hours
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/1248-US-Positions.png)

1400 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT4.png)


1400 Plan of Action: The advance thus far has been disappointing, however progress is being made. The basic plan right now is to continue the pressure as best as we can. While the other engagements wind down, orders are given to combine companies A, B, and C back in to 1/115. This should allow them to be a bit more efficient in the attack. Furthermore the timing is good, because 1/115 should be ready to go about the same time the other battalions are done with their engagements and reorganize. This way all front line battalions can engage at the same time. Additionally, there are 2 companies of tanks still offboard (1 medium, 1 light tank), and they will be given orders to combine with 1/116. Hopefully we can make the next assault a larger hammer blow!
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on October 11, 2016, 05:19:27 PM
CURRENT TIME 1600 Hours

Turn 5 Staff Report:3/115 continued its assault against a persistent enemy until running out of steam at 1426. They were able to advance 200m while suffering 31 casualties. They are well under way reorganizing after having degraded cohesion. Intel reports that the German ground troops were supported by a battery of 120mm mortars.

3/116 continued with its supporting attack. At 1455 the battalion commander ceases the attack after advancing 200m and suffering 39 casualties. They have degraded cohesion and they are recovering in preparation for another assault. They report being hit by German 105’s.

2/116 continued to grind forward against stubborn resistance. The impetus of their attack ended at 1513 after advancing 300m. They suffered 54 total casualties and lost 7 tanks. They have degraded cohesion, and they are currently reorganizing. Intel reports that our armor attracted a lot of attention from German artillery. A battery of 120mm mortars, 105mm howitzers, and 88’s were supporting the defense.

Companies A, B, and C/115 were given orders to recombine back in to 1/115, and movement started at 1500. The battalion was reformed by 1540 with no German artillery responding to the movement. 1/115 is now recovering degraded cohesion.

Companies C and D/747 Tank Battalion first entered the map at 1521 hours making their way to 1/116 to form a battlegroup. Sir the battlegroup is formed and awaiting orders.

Note: the results are all in and the Americans suffered 156 total casualties and lost 7 tanks in this round of engagements.

Unit Positions as of 1600
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT5.png)

1600 Plan of Action: The plan is simple...reload, reorganize, and re-engage for hammer blow number 2! All units will be reorganized and ready to go no earlier than 1740. With this in mind, units are being issued orders to kickoff the next attack at 1800. In addition to the battalions that attacked last time, the 116th is disposing of its reserve (1/116), and the newly formed battlegroup is going to be thrown in the line.

While the units are preparing for the next round, we are issuing orders to bombard the enemy positions to try and soften them up even more. It takes an hour to produce a fire plan, so our units won't be available to fire on the enemy until 1700. This will give us 60 minutes to bombard their positions and further soften them up. We plan to really test our supply system!  ;)
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on October 28, 2016, 03:25:35 PM
Current Time 1800 Hours

Turn 6 Staff Report: All is quiet as units reorganize and prepare until the planned preparatory bombardment commences at 1700. For the next hour US artillery expends almost 70 tons of ordnance on the enemy positions.

The following units come online after reorganizing and are ready to go at the following times:
2/116-1715 Hours
3/116-1655
1/115-1740
3/115-1645

1/116 is sitting in reserve and is awaiting orders. The response of this unit will depend on how the engagements unfold.

American Fire Plan Commencing at 1700
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/1600-Fire-Plan_zpsgenimkvk.png)

1800 Plan of Action: ...let slip the dogs of war! It is now a waiting game. We will watch the assault unfold and assess our progress.This is our last assault of the day before nightfall, so let it be successful!
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: Asid on October 28, 2016, 04:01:50 PM

1800 Plan of Action: ...let slip the dogs of war! It is now a waiting game. We will watch the assault unfold and assess our progress.This is our last assault of the day before nightfall, so let it be successful!

 ;D


Looking good
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on November 08, 2016, 06:10:28 PM
Current Time 2000 Hours  This report was updated on 21 Nov

Turn 7 Staff Report: at 1800 all forces move out and re-engage the enemy. At 1808 hours 2/116 makes contact with 227 FAB and B/92 in support of the attack. Following shortly are 3/115 and 3/116 making contact at 1810 hours. 3/116 is supported by 224 FAB and 116th Cannon Co. 3/115 is supported by 110 FAB and A/92. 1/115 then makes contact at 1811 and is supported by 111 FAB and 115 Cannon Co. 1/116 stands by in reserve and is awaiting further orders…

We will pause here to see if any battles are fought on the tactical level. If you are interested in participating, all you need to do is volunteer here on the forum! In the mean time I will compute the anticipated results…

Troop dispositions as of 1811 hours
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT7a.png)
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: Mad Mike on November 08, 2016, 07:56:01 PM

We will pause here to see if any battles are fought on the tactical level. If you are interested in participating, all you need to do is volunteer here on the forum! In the mean time I will compute the anticipated results…


As stated earlier, I would be happy to play one engagement in CMx2 - CMBN H2H against a real opponent.
I'm available if you think one of these battles is suitable.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on November 08, 2016, 09:31:52 PM
Mad Mike, yes I think that these battles have great potential for CM. Do you have an opponent, or do you need someone to volunteer on the forum? Or did you have some other arrangement in mind?
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: Mad Mike on November 09, 2016, 08:41:03 PM
Mad Mike, yes I think that these battles have great potential for CM. Do you have an opponent, or do you need someone to volunteer on the forum? Or did you have some other arrangement in mind?

I don't have an opponent yet. I think TacticalWargamer has expressed interest in the past. If nobody shows up here, I think I should always be able to find someone on one of the CM-specific websites.

Maybe if we could work out the engagement parameters for a CM battle first and then look for somebody to join me as my opponent?
What kind of engagements do you have in mind? Battalion-sized attacks with support? Or something smaller?
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on November 09, 2016, 09:22:25 PM
Mad Mike, yes there are 4 battalions going in to action. 2 of them are reinforced with an engineer company, and one of these has 2 tank companies! Then all of them have several batteries of artillery in support.

OK, let's give people another day to see, then you can solicit players on other sites. Sound good? Any more questions?
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: A Canadian Cat on November 10, 2016, 02:59:53 PM
I can fight opposite someone - either Mad Mike or we can each find another opponent.  There are several sites that we are both involved in that I am sure we can find an opponent to play.  So, up to you.  Do you want multiple battles or is one enough?
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on November 10, 2016, 08:53:13 PM
Up to you Cat! I can entertain up to 8 tactical players this round. So let's do it this way, you and Mad Mike pair up and then if we have anyone else we can worry about that later! You two quickly discuss which side you prefer and which battle you prefer. If you don't care which battle, let me know and I will assign one to you.  :)
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: Christian Knudsen on November 10, 2016, 11:30:06 PM
I can play a game, with a few provisos:

1.  I am terrible at CM - probably better suited to defender.
2.  I don't really have anyone to play against
3.  Might be interesting getting it done if you wants it done fast!

Other than that, I'm in!
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on November 11, 2016, 02:36:40 PM
CK, if another CM player steps forward then you can square off with them, or you could solicit someone from a different forum. OR you could do an ASL scenario like last time. What sounds best to you? Either way, great to have you!

You also bring up a point I want to highlight. You mention that you are not that good at CM. This is something that people need to figure in to how or if they want to resolve the battles tactically. It is also something to consider regarding casualty "conversion" when inputting results in TO. In other words, players may not want to regulate casualties a bit when inputting results to TO. I would also like to point out that this is strictly player preference! So it is completely up to you (the player) and how you want to play.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: A Canadian Cat on November 11, 2016, 02:47:56 PM
So let's do it this way, you and Mad Mike pair up and then if we have anyone else we can worry about that later!

Sounds good.

You two quickly discuss which side you prefer and which battle you prefer. If you don't care which battle, let me know and I will assign one to you.  :)

I am not fussy about sides - I play lots as either side and am comfortable defending or on the attack.  So @Mad Mike you can pick otherwise put me on the attack.  As for a battle @choppinlt whichever you think will be more fun - I will AAR on the BFC forum - perhaps one with armour.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on November 11, 2016, 02:58:43 PM
There is only one battle with armor, so that narrows it down!  :D I had a feeling this engagement would be the one of most interest. It happens to be the schwerpunkt at the moment. In the mean time, I hope we hear from Mad Mike soon so we can get going!
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: Mad Mike on November 12, 2016, 11:06:49 AM
@choppinlt

I'm ready to go. I guess we're talking about the attack of the 2/116?

If you could provide us with the OOB for both sides involved in this battle, @A Canadian Cat and myself could then setup the battle in CM:BN.

Should we keep the DARs in one place, i.e. the BFC forum as Ian suggested? I'm happy to do it any place you prefer.
I also suggest to create a new thread here to discuss further specifics of this battle (stop cluttering this thread).

@A Canadian Cat

I'm fine with playing the Germans on defense. Kind of makes sense  ;)
I've created a dropbox for us, you should have an invite.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on November 12, 2016, 04:52:29 PM
GREAT! Yes MM, we are talking about the 2/116 engagement. I will try to get the OOB ASAP.

The final decision is yours and Cats to make, but I think keeping the DAR on the BFC forum is the highest priority. Any other forum is great, but BFC would be the highest IMHO. HOWEVER, it would be great if you had a thread here in this forum with the direct link to the BFC thread. Then all you need to do is pop in this forum and say "check out the latest", and you are done here regarding updates. Another forum you could do this with is the Few Good Men. Let me know what you decide to do.

Agreed, I will establish a battle specific thread like I did for CK's ASL battle. This is where I will give all pertinent details to the both of you, and this may be the place for you action report updates.

ALL RIGHT LET'S DO THIS!!  8) Oh, and thank you all for your participation. I know there are lots of people silently interested, but stepping forward to help out is much appreciated...and inspires me to work harder on making this a reality.



Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on December 19, 2016, 04:32:19 PM
Current Time 2000 Hours  Updated on 19 Dec

Turn 7 Staff Report: at 1800 all forces move out and engage the enemy again. At 1808 hours 2/116 makes contact with 227 FAB and B/92 in support of the attack. This battle is currently being played out on the tactical battlefield using CMBN. TO combat resolution has the Americans advancing 400m in 2 hours and 14 minutes with 47 total casualties and the loss of 6 tanks. Let’s see what the CM results give us!

3/116 makes contact at 1810 and is supported by 224 FAB and 116th Cannon Co. This engagement just ended at 1959, and we are awaiting more information. We know that reported progress was very slow and met with heavy resistance.

3/115 makes contact at 1810 and is supported by 110 FAB and A/92. This engagement just ended, and we are awaiting more information. We know that reported progress was very slow and met with heavy resistance.

1/115 makes contact at 1811 and is supported by 111 FAB and 115 Cannon Co. This engagement is still underway, however it appears to be almost over. We know that reported progress has been very slow and met with heavy resistance.

967th Field Artillery Battalion (155’s) performed a counterbattery fire mission against suspected German 105’s. Results are under evaluation.

1/116 stands by in reserve and is awaiting further orders…

Troop dispositions as of 1811 hours
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT7a.png)

2000 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT7b.png)

Plan of Action: wait for combat to wind down and make further assessments. The Germans appear to be holding pretty firm. 2/116 appears to be making greater progress than previous (according to the TO resolution system), the problem is that darkness is arriving soon. Once the official results are in for 2/116 then we may commit 1/116 and see if we can achieve a breakthrough during the night. Most likely our forces will hold firm to rest and recover for now.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on January 12, 2017, 04:29:32 PM
Current Time 2200 Hours

Turn 8 Staff Report: 2/116 ceases their attack at 2022 after a 400m advance. They report 47 casualties and the loss of 5 tanks. Our forces report receiving indirect fire from 120mm mortars, 88’s and 105’s. 2/116 is expected to recover from its cohesion loss around 2230. Note: this battle is still currently being played out and these results may be adjusted accordingly when the battle is completed.

3/116 made contact at 1810 and ended at 1959. They suffered 39 casualties after advancing 200m. Our forces report receiving indirect fire from 120mm mortars and limited fire missions (likely from our counterbattery fire) from 105’s. 3/116 reports a full recovery from their cohesion loss.

3/115 made contact at 1810 and ended at 2000. They suffered 30 casualties after advancing 200m. Our forces report receiving indirect fire from German 105’s. Cohesion recovery for 3/115 appears imminent.

1/115 made contact at 1811 and ended their attack at 2003 after advancing 200m. They report approximately 31 casualties. Our forces report receiving indirect fire from 120mm mortars. Cohesion recovery should happen before 2230.

Approximately 90,000 lbs of artillery ordnance was expended during this round of combat.

This round of combat we suffered 147 casualties, and 5 tanks were knocked out. Totals for the day are  303 casualties and 12 tanks knocked out.

2200 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT8.png)

Plan of Action: right now we believe it is to our best advantage to rest our forces and allow them to re-group for more action in the morning. While ammunition levels are OK at the moment attacking further will only serve to cause greater fatigue, ammunition expenditure, and losses for what appears to be a limited gain. In our judgement, it appears that we are better served to re-new our attack at dawn. The engineer battalion will reform on the road between A/92 and 111th FAB. The 747th Tank Battalion will form up at Couvains. The remainder of our forces will remain in place, rest, and recover. There will be no offensive artillery fire missions to allow for ammo replenishment, and gun maintenance.

Game Note: I have little data on the German casualty rates in this area from July 11, however I do have reliable information on casualties sustained and artillery expenditures for the Americans. Historically the 29th lost around 500 men on this day. This scenario produced 303 casualties, but the Americans delayed their initial assault till noon. So if the Americans had started their assault at 0600 in this scenario (as what happened historically), you could interpolate the results to be close to 500 casualties. So that is a good sign that my game mechanics are producing reasonable results! If anyone has any data they want to share (from credible sources), please feel free to let me know.

Even though I don’t have any data regarding the Germans, 176 casualties feels a little light…but I can’t be sure at this point. One huge factor is that I allowed the Germans to start in prepared defensive positions. I see no reason at the moment to tweak anything, but I will definitely keep an eye on this. You are witnessing the first real play-through with all these different mechanics in action together, warts and all! While there is definite work needed, I am happy with how it is coming together. I hope you are getting a lot of value with seeing a scenario unfold and getting a real feel for how the game concept is supposed to work. It is my hope that these scenarios will lead to better understanding.

I havn’t taken the time to analyze artillery expenditure yet, but that will be interesting to see how that turns out!
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on February 02, 2017, 01:57:38 PM
Current Time 2400 Hours

Turn 9 Staff Report: All infantry units are stationary, have recovered cohesion, and have dug-in for the night. Additionally all engineering and armor elements have withdrawn and reformed in their bivouac areas. Otherwise all is quiet as resupply efforts commence in full force.

Word from HHQ is that we are not being allocated any air support for tomorrow.

2400 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT9.png)

Plan of Action: Rest, recuperate, and reevaluate! The weather is supposed to be partly to mostly cloudy with no precipitation. So weather won’t be a factor for ground forces. Perhaps now would be a good time to commit the 175th, but the question is where and when… We will wait till 0200 before making the final decision.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on February 20, 2017, 01:03:42 AM
Current Time 0200 Hours

Turn 10 Staff Report: There has been no action to report regarding the enemy, and our forces have settled in for the night.

0200 Unit Dispositions and Proposed Fire Plan
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT10.png)

Plan of Action: at 0300 we are going to commence with harrassing fires against all 6 frontline enemy units until 0500. We will wait till next turn to decide when to commence with area fire at that time.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on February 24, 2017, 02:46:05 PM
Current Time 0400 Hours

Turn 11 Staff Report: There is no enemy activity to report. There is nothing to report except the artillery started firing harassment missions at 0300 as planned.

0400 Unit Dispositions (unchanged)
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT10.png)

Plan of Action: at 0500 the intensity of artillery fire will increase with a bombardment lasting 60 minutes. Then at 0600 all units in the front line will commence with their attack. All attacking units will receive dedicated artillery support. Engineers and armor will be reattached to the 116th Regiment, and we will continue our main push on our left. One difference will be that 2/116 will combine with C/747 (they combined with A and B yesterday), and 3/116 will combine with D/747. A and B/747 will sit in reserve to repair and recover lost tanks. If needed they can be attached in a relatively fast manner. The 175th will remain in reserve (offboard), but it will remain available if needed.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on March 17, 2017, 05:52:13 PM
Current Time 0600 12Jul

Turn 12 Staff Report: There is no enemy activity to report. All harassment missions ended at 0500, and the intensity increased to a sustained bombardment (i.e.  Area Fire Missions) as planned. These missions are ending now, and we have no information regarding their effect. We did expend approximately 100 tons of ammunition during these bombardments.

All elements of the 121st Engineer Battalion plus Companies C and D of the 747th Tank Battalion have formed their battle groups with the 116th as planned. All units report being at their line of departure and ready to commence their attack.

1/115 has dedicated support from 115th Cannon Co
3/115 has dedicated support from 110 FAB, A/92, C/227 FAB
2/116 has dedicated support from 111 FAB, 116th Cannon Co, A/227 FAB
3/116 has dedicated support from 224 FAB, B/92, B/227 FAB
967 FAB has all three batteries on Counter Battery Fire Missions

0600 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT12.png)

Plan of Action: all preparations are complete, so now it is time to watch the results and react accordingly.

Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on April 13, 2017, 05:26:45 PM
Current Time 0800 12 Jul Updated

Turn 13 Staff Report: At 0600 all units crossed the line of departure and started advancing to engage the enemy. 3/115 was the first to make contact at 0609. 2/116 made contact at 0612, and 3/116 made contact at 0619. 1/115 made contact at 0621. It should be noted that the two middle battalions advanced further than anticipated before contact. The enemy appears to have redeployed some forces after dark without detection. This also means that of our artillery bombardments likely hit empty positions in those areas.

2/116 is reporting stiff resistance against enemy infantry with significant artillery support. The attack is still underway with losses being reported as heavy with moderate gains. It appears this attack will be halted within the next 30 minutes.

3/116 is reporting stiff resistance against enemy infantry with significant artillery support. The attack is still underway with losses being reported as heavy with moderate gains. Our current assessment is that the attack will halt within the hour.

1/115 is reporting stiff resistance against enemy infantry with notable artillery support. The attack is just ending with reported little to moderate gains and heavy losses.

3/115 is reporting stiff resistance against enemy infantry, and no enemy artillery support has been mentioned. The attack ended at approximately 0750 with reported little to moderate gains and heavy losses.

We are currently collecting and analyzing information to get a more accurate assessment of the situation.

0621 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT13.png)

0800 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT13b.png)

Plan of Action: Let units finish up and recover while awaiting a clearer assessment.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on May 16, 2017, 04:21:22 PM
*sorry for the hiatus it was not expected. Apparently things can get unexpectedly busy some times!  :)

Current Time 1000 12 Jul

Turn 14 Staff Report: The 2 remaining engagements have ended, and more details are available regarding all recent engagements. Our artillery reports that no counterbattery missions were executed. Good concealment and the cloudy weather are contributing factors in limiting our efforts at the moment.

2/116 ceased their attack at 0804 and reported stiff resistance against enemy infantry with significant artillery support. They report an advance of 600m at the cost of 38 casualties and 3 medium tanks. 2/116 is currently recovering their cohesion and should be ready for action within the hour.

3/116 continued with their assault until 0833 and reported stiff resistance against enemy infantry with significant artillery support. They report an advance of 500m at the cost of 44 casualties 3 light tanks. 3/116 is currently recovering their cohesion and should be ready for action within the hour.

1/115 ended their engagement at 0759 and report stiff resistance with moderate artillery support. They reported an advance of 300m while sustaining 35 casualties. They should be ready for action any minute now.

3/115 ended their engagement at 0750 and reported no enemy artillery support. They report an advance of 300m while sustaining 31 casualties. They just reported that they are now fully ready for action.

1000 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AT14.png)

Plan of Action: At 1100 all frontline units will cross their lines of departure and re-new the assault!
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on September 25, 2017, 07:43:51 PM
Current Time 1200 12 Jul

Turn 15 Staff Report: All units were making preparations for the next round of assaults when at 1031 the Germans counterattacked in the area occupied by 1/115. They were initially caught off guard by the sudden appearance of what appears to be a small German battlegroup of armor and infantry. Word is that some Forward Observers were in the right place and paying attention. 105’s were landing on the enemy positions before the attack hardly got started. We are still waiting for more details. It appears the German attack was a local spoiling attack to throw us off our battle rhythm, and it worked because 1/115 won’t be ready to jump off any earlier than 1205.

3/115 jumped off at 1100 and made contact with the enemy at 1111. We have no further updates at this time.

3/116 jumped off as planned at 1100 and made contact with the enemy at approximately 1114. We have no further updates at this time.

2/116 jumped off as planned at 1100. They advanced approximately 200m before making contact with the enemy at approximately 1129. We have no further updates at this time.

1031 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/AT15a.png)

1200 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/AT15b.png)

Plan of Action: wait and see how the assaults turn out.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on October 18, 2017, 08:03:13 PM
Current Time 1400 12 Jul

Turn 16 Staff Report: this is the best information we currently have available…
3/115 reports strong resistance, but reports no enemy artillery. The engagement ended at 1251 with a 100m advance at the cost of 31 casualties.
1/115 reports crossing the LD at 1210 and enemy contact at 1226. They report strong resistance, but we will need to wait for further details as this engagement may still be in progress.
3/116 reports fierce resistance supported by artillery, and the engagement ended at 1313. They report an advance of 200m at the cost 43 casualties and the loss of 2 tanks.
2/116 reports fierce resistance supported by artillery with a slow advance and moderate casualties. We estimate this engagement has ended, and we expect detailed information to be available within the next half hour.

1400 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/AT16a.png)

Plan of Action: forces can recover as we await further information.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on December 19, 2017, 05:22:55 PM
Current Time 1600 12 Jul

Turn 17 Staff Report: 1/115 reports that their attack ceased at 1406. They report no enemy artillery support, however they report the presence of the previously discovered Stugs. Despite the Stugs they still managed to advance 200m, at the cost of 31 casualties.

We also have the final after action reports for 2/116. They had hopes of a significant advance based on various indicators, but were only able to manage a 400m advance with 44 casualties and 3 Shermans KO’d. German artillery was especially dense in this area during this assault. It is likely that the arrival of the Stugs freed up some of their artillery support. And there is also the possibility that they received additional artillery assets.

All our forces have just completed their efforts at re-grouping, and are now awaiting orders.

We also want to report that a weather front is moving through the area and storms are forecasted for almost the entire day tomorrow. (Sorry this was a game manager mistake! Players should have been informed of this earlier, although I’m not sure it would have changed anything).

1600 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/AT17.png)


Plan of Action: we will make one last assault before night falls. At 1700 all battle groups will resume the attack. Under the circumstances I will take a calculated risk and make a "stubborn" attack with 2/116 to see if we can make significant gains. If it goes badly, the situation allows additional recovery time. We will see how things develop (especially with 2/116), but I see little benefit in a night attack at the moment. So this will most likely be our last assault for at least 24 hours. The weather will give us good reason to use tomorrow as a day of recovery. The infantry can recover from their mind numbing fatigue, the tanks can start to repair and recover from their losses, and the artillery can thoroughly re-stock their supplies. The Germans can attest to the liberal use of artillery. 😉
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on December 22, 2017, 08:44:36 PM
Current Time 1800 Hours 12 Jul

Turn 18 Staff Report: Sir, we can report that all 4 units crossed the line of departure at 1700 as planned, and all units made contact with the enemy a short time later. We have no details to report except it appears that all forces continue to meet stubborn resistance.

1800 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/AT18.png)

Plan of Action: wait and see what develops.
Title: Re: Blue, Gray, and Bocage Scenario-American Perspective
Post by: choppinlt on January 04, 2018, 06:41:32 PM
Current Time 2000 Hours 12 Jul

Turn 19 Staff Report: Sir, the gamble has paid off! The latest reports are that 2/116 met stubborn enemy resistance (including artillery) at 1710 hours. We have not confirmed final results, but they appear to be on the verge of breaking through with reportedly moderate casualties. If a breakthrough has been achieved, we can expect them to carry on with their currently assigned movement waypoints with a continued advance down the St. Lo-La Calvaire highway toward St. Lo.**I revised Turn 17's Plan of Action for this unit based on a miscommunication with the American commander’s intent this turn.

3/116 met stubborn enemy resistance (including artillery) at 1712 and appears to have advanced 300-400m with moderate casualties before losing momentum at 1701. They are re-grouping and awaiting further orders.

Perhaps the biggest surprise is that 1/115 met the enemy at 1711 and advanced approximately 500-600m before being stopped at 1903 with moderate casualties despite stubborn enemy resistance (including artillery). They are also re-grouping and awaiting further orders.

At 1714 3/115 met stubborn enemy resistance in it’s supporting attack. They were able to advance approximately 100m before the attack stalled, even though no enemy artillery was reported to be used in this area. They suffered moderate casualties. The are currently re-grouping and awaiting further orders.

Additional details on these engagements will become available later as reports are updated.

2000 Unit Dispositions
(http://buckeyebg.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/AT19.png)

Plan of Action: awaiting input…