A War of Corporals


Brest, France, September 16th, 1944: After the piercing of the front at Avranches, the Americans
launched their divisions in all directions, notably in Brittany. Their lines of resupply were 
lengthening, and the capture of the large French ports was deemed essential. Brest became the primary
objective of US VII Corps. The city garrison was formidable. Led by General Ramcke it consisted of
30,000 men stiffened by the parachutist of the 2nd Fallschirmjager Division, veterans of the Eastern
Front. The assault by three divisions of VII Corps was launched on August 25th, supported by fifteen
artillery groups and seven heavy bomber formations. Despite their numerical advantage, the Americans 
were dealt with harshly. The 23rd infantry regiment finally managed to reduce the exterior defenses
by September 8th, but the parachutist were still holding firm. it would be necessary to engage in
difficult street fighting.

Game Length: 8 Turns

For the Americans to win they must capture VP buildings in town of Brest
For the Germans to win they must defend the town

Boards: #20, #21


Aftermath: The US soldiers slowly progressed into a city reduced to ruins by aviation and artillery.
Despite the support of tank destroyers, each house had to be taken in hand-to-hand fighting or with the use of flame thowers. It was a "war of corporals" according to General Robertson. It required eight further days of heavy and bloody advances and reduction of a fortified strongpoint by the railway station to reach the Old City. On September 18th, Oberst Pietsonka, commanding the paraschutist, surrendered his regiment to the 2nd Division, preceeding the surrender of the Brest garrison itself which took place on September 21st. The port, in ruins, would not be operational for several weeks. General Ramcke had accomplished his mission and was awarded the Oak Leaves with Swords and Diamonds to his Knights Cross of the Iron Cross (he became the 28th holder of this high decoration).


Sourcs: Tactiques magazine, Scenario ASL TAC42, A War of Corporals 