MLR5 Third Time Lucky

St. Martin-de-Fontenay, August 1, 1944: On the evening of July 31st, 
Major Jacques (Jimmy) Dextraz was preparing to go to Bayeux with two 
other officers for dinner and a little wine. Before leaving, he heard 
that there was to be a Brigade 'O' Group to discuss yet another attack 
on the churchin St. Martin. A night assault on July 28th and 29th by 
two companies of Le Regiment de Maisonneuve had failed as had a second 
attempt, which was supported by artillery and Typhoons. The church held 
a commanding position on the outskirts of St. Martin and gave the Germans 
ample view of the Canadian rear areas. While listening to the opinions of 
officers at the 'O' Group, Dextraze spoke up repeatedly suggesting how the 
attack should be done. After presenting one idea too many, Major Dextraze's 
D Company of Les Fusiliers Mont-Royal was given the job of taking the church. 
Dinner and wine would have to wait. Perhaps this third crack at the Germans 
ensconced in the church would succeed.

Major Dextroze was convinced that a swift, carefully coordinated attack 
combined with a thorough briefing of his men and reconnaissance of the 
area was key to success. Dextraze explained the plan to every section leader 
and every man knew his roll in the upcoming assault.

Game Length: 5 turns

For the French Canadians to win they must capture the church
For the Germans to win they must defend the church

French Canadians: Squads, LMG's, PIAT's
Germans: Squads, MMG, LMG's

Boards: #43, #46

Aftermath: At 0530 hrs on the morning of August 1st the attack commenced, 
preceded by a prepatory artillery attack on the church. Several rounds fell 
short and un-nerved a number of Dextraze's men. The Major calmly walked across 
the road through enemy fire and stood by the church graveyard wall. His men 
soon joined their commander. Bren teams took out German machinegun positions 
then the Fusiliers came charging through the wall of the church graveyard. Pouring 
cmall arms fire and grenades into the church, the French Canadians soon cleared 
the building of Germans. The SS troops were quick to put in a counterattack. 
Securing the objective using the numerous slit trenches around the church and 
and an adjoining orchard, the Fusiliers gunned down the first German attack as 
well as a stonger stonger one.

As the morning wore on, the Germans, realising that they had lost the church, 
subjected the area to intense mortar fire for the next 36 hours. Dextraze 
careful planning had paid off. For his courage and leadership in the assault, 
Major Jacques Dextraze was awarded the Distinguished Service Order along with 
a new nicname from his fellow officers, "Mad" Jimmy.

Source: Canadian ASL Association, 2000
