Hi Folks, this is my AAR covering my pbem match against the JAMiAM. I will be commanding the Axis armies, while JAMiAM will be in directing the Soviet forces. I have undoubtedly taken on one of the more experienced players on this forum, and will probably get my-head handed to me. But if I’m going to be ignominiously defeated, it always looks better when it is done by an expert.
First; this is a closed AAR, because I will be discussing future strategies and my operational plans. SO JAMiAM IF YOU ARE READING THIS, GO AWAY NOW. But I would very much appreciate, any advice (please) from other Players/Readers.
This is a RANDOM WEATHER game, with FULL FOW, and LOCKED HQ’s. We are starting under the current Public Beta 1.05.59C Patch version, and sending/receiving our turns by E-mail.
I will be starting this campaign with the main strategy, of destroying Soviet manpower. I plan to do this by two means; first by pocketing and destroying large enemy strategic ground forces, then secondly by capturing Soviet manpower centres. My style of play will be more balanced than some other players (Panzer-Pushers), and you will not normally see me push my mobile units as deep as some players.
I am very aware that I am effectively fighting this war with two distinctly different types of Armies. With the majority of my army being made up of traditional infantry divisions, which still move forward at marching speed. But that my striking/breakthrough units consisting of mechanized divisions that move at vehicle speed.
The gains and enemy pockets that my mobile corps achieve, depend on the follow-up infantry corps for the stability of LOC and holding/destruction of these pockets. This is the reason for my more conservative use of my mobile forces, so that my infantry forces can maintain contact with these point units.
Des.
The Bird Goes East. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), No JAMiAM.
Moderators: Joel Billings, Sabre21
The Bird Goes East. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), No JAMiAM.
When you see the Southern Cross, For the first time
You understand now, Why you came this way
EAGLE VERSES BEAR, the bird goes east.DivePac(A)vJAMiAM(S),(No JAMiAM).
Turn 1.
Army Group North.
My initial objective in this area apart from the panzer corps thrust’s, is to get the infantry corps off the line, and heated toward the Leningrad area. So I attacked first with the army group’s infantry divisions to clear the boarder start-lines. I then pushed the two panzer corps out; with 41 panzer going to the north toward Riga, reaching Jelgava, and the rail link west of Riga. While 56 panzer working northeast toward Jekabplis and Dougavpils. I will probably be criticized here for not taking Riga and crossing the River Daugava, but they are not day one objectives. The 18th army then moved east to Telsiai, engaging the Soviet reserve divisions, and north toward the port of Liepaja. While the 16th army moved east toward Raseiniai to also pin-down the Soviet reserve divisions, and take the city of Kaunas.
Army Group Centre.
I decided than on the first turn in the central region, that Minsk was not an objective. But that forming the Bialystock pocket with my panzer groups, and moving my infantry armies east were the priorities (I know that the panzer-pushers are going to have ago at this). With this in mind, I initially cleared the enemy from in front of panzer groups with infantry divisions.
In the north panzer group 3 broke-out of the start lines, with 57 panzer going toward Vilnius area, and the 39 panzer moving into the Linda area. While in the south panzer group 2 broke-out, with 47 panzer advancing into the Baranovichi area, and 24 panzer moved into the Ivantsevicihi area.
The 9th armies infantry corps advanced on the Grodno area, and the 4th army moved toward Bialystok. Brest-Litsovsk was surrounded by an infantry corps of panzer group 2, but was not taken by the 45th infantry division+, which put-in two planned attacks.
Army Group South.
The plan in the south was with three objectives in mind; first was the capture of the Przemysl to Lvov rail link, the capture of Tarnopol, and securing of the Tarnopol to Chemovtsy rail link as far as the River Prut. With the added goal of occupying a hex east of 51 and south of hex 89, to activate the Axis forces in Rumania.
Two 6th army infantry corps in the Belz area were the first units to advance, braking the Soviet front, and advancing toward Lutsk to the west and Busk to the south. This was to clear the start lines for panzer group 1 (which had been reinforced with the 46 panzer corps from panzer group 2), which then struck-out in a general southerly direction toward the Rumanian border.
The infantry corps’s of the 17th army then advanced off the border, and secured the Przemysl to Lvov rail link as far west as hex 50/84. The 17th army succeeded in driving the enemy infantry units of the border, then attacked and pinned down the Soviet reserve divisions in the Lvov area. One planned attack was launched on Lvov by an infantry corps+, but the city wasn’t taken.
Army Group North.
My initial objective in this area apart from the panzer corps thrust’s, is to get the infantry corps off the line, and heated toward the Leningrad area. So I attacked first with the army group’s infantry divisions to clear the boarder start-lines. I then pushed the two panzer corps out; with 41 panzer going to the north toward Riga, reaching Jelgava, and the rail link west of Riga. While 56 panzer working northeast toward Jekabplis and Dougavpils. I will probably be criticized here for not taking Riga and crossing the River Daugava, but they are not day one objectives. The 18th army then moved east to Telsiai, engaging the Soviet reserve divisions, and north toward the port of Liepaja. While the 16th army moved east toward Raseiniai to also pin-down the Soviet reserve divisions, and take the city of Kaunas.
Army Group Centre.
I decided than on the first turn in the central region, that Minsk was not an objective. But that forming the Bialystock pocket with my panzer groups, and moving my infantry armies east were the priorities (I know that the panzer-pushers are going to have ago at this). With this in mind, I initially cleared the enemy from in front of panzer groups with infantry divisions.
In the north panzer group 3 broke-out of the start lines, with 57 panzer going toward Vilnius area, and the 39 panzer moving into the Linda area. While in the south panzer group 2 broke-out, with 47 panzer advancing into the Baranovichi area, and 24 panzer moved into the Ivantsevicihi area.
The 9th armies infantry corps advanced on the Grodno area, and the 4th army moved toward Bialystok. Brest-Litsovsk was surrounded by an infantry corps of panzer group 2, but was not taken by the 45th infantry division+, which put-in two planned attacks.
Army Group South.
The plan in the south was with three objectives in mind; first was the capture of the Przemysl to Lvov rail link, the capture of Tarnopol, and securing of the Tarnopol to Chemovtsy rail link as far as the River Prut. With the added goal of occupying a hex east of 51 and south of hex 89, to activate the Axis forces in Rumania.
Two 6th army infantry corps in the Belz area were the first units to advance, braking the Soviet front, and advancing toward Lutsk to the west and Busk to the south. This was to clear the start lines for panzer group 1 (which had been reinforced with the 46 panzer corps from panzer group 2), which then struck-out in a general southerly direction toward the Rumanian border.
The infantry corps’s of the 17th army then advanced off the border, and secured the Przemysl to Lvov rail link as far west as hex 50/84. The 17th army succeeded in driving the enemy infantry units of the border, then attacked and pinned down the Soviet reserve divisions in the Lvov area. One planned attack was launched on Lvov by an infantry corps+, but the city wasn’t taken.
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RE: EAGLE VERSES BEAR, the bird goes east.DivePac(A)vJAMiAM(S),(No JAMiAM).
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RE: EAGLE VERSES BEAR, the bird goes east.DivePac(A)vJAMiAM(S),(No JAMiAM).
Hi all,
Nice Des - I wish you good AAR! [:)]
Leo "Apollo11"
Nice Des - I wish you good AAR! [:)]
Leo "Apollo11"
Prior Preparation & Planning Prevents Pathetically Poor Performance!
A & B: WitW, WitE, WbtS, GGWaW, GGWaW2-AWD, HttR, CotA, BftB, CF
P: UV, WitP, WitP-AE
RE: EAGLE VERSES BEAR, the bird goes east.DivePac(A)vJAMiAM(S),(No JAMiAM).
Sorry for saying this, but it is poor beginning.
Overall - to many unnecessary attacks, too wide front, too shallow penetration.
Daugava not crossed, he will probably break your encirclement in AGC area (near Vilnus), plus Romanians are not activated, not too mention not forming Lvov pocket.
In AGS area he will separate your tanks from infantry - it will take place north of Tarnopol what will limit mobility of your panzers, plus will create unpleasant dilemma - advancing and blowing up big chunk of units in Lvov area or wasting turn to surround them properly.
These developments will leave his South-West front in great shape what will give him opportunities to use his reserves elsewhere, possibly in AGN area.
I am not specialist, but I think for sake of enjoyable and long game it could be good idea to replay your first turn.
My formula for first turns - blast corridor, pour forces into it while maintaining line of supply not affected by enemy ZOCs. Make as little attacks as possible, mop up surrounded forces next turn while you pass by, and finish pockets with lagging units supported by security formation. Focus and supply are keys to rapid advance.
Overall - to many unnecessary attacks, too wide front, too shallow penetration.
Daugava not crossed, he will probably break your encirclement in AGC area (near Vilnus), plus Romanians are not activated, not too mention not forming Lvov pocket.
In AGS area he will separate your tanks from infantry - it will take place north of Tarnopol what will limit mobility of your panzers, plus will create unpleasant dilemma - advancing and blowing up big chunk of units in Lvov area or wasting turn to surround them properly.
These developments will leave his South-West front in great shape what will give him opportunities to use his reserves elsewhere, possibly in AGN area.
I am not specialist, but I think for sake of enjoyable and long game it could be good idea to replay your first turn.
My formula for first turns - blast corridor, pour forces into it while maintaining line of supply not affected by enemy ZOCs. Make as little attacks as possible, mop up surrounded forces next turn while you pass by, and finish pockets with lagging units supported by security formation. Focus and supply are keys to rapid advance.
Kamil
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CarnageINC
- Posts: 2208
- Joined: Mon Feb 28, 2005 2:47 am
- Location: Rapid City SD
RE: EAGLE VERSES BEAR, the bird goes east.DivePac(A)vJAMiAM(S),(No JAMiAM).
Given that DivePac is relatively new to WitE, a lot of his mistakes are standard in the opening for a newer player. Live and learn is the best way to play IMO. Good luck DivePac [;)]
RE: EAGLE VERSES BEAR, the bird goes east.DivePac(A)vJAMiAM(S),(No JAMiAM).
DivePAC88,
Do not be influenced by the nay sayers. I received the same sort of friendly input but was not phased; stick to your guns, partner. This is a very long game and contrary to a certain school of thought, the game is not lost on the first move. The more he sedns/keeps forward, the better off you are...as you learn how to pocket better.
Do not be influenced by the nay sayers. I received the same sort of friendly input but was not phased; stick to your guns, partner. This is a very long game and contrary to a certain school of thought, the game is not lost on the first move. The more he sedns/keeps forward, the better off you are...as you learn how to pocket better.
EAGLE VERSES BEAR, bird goes east. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), -No JAMiAM.
Thank you Guy's for the encouragement (and criticisms), but I am personally happy with my start.
My grounding in this game is from reading the manual inside-out, and also reading most of the AAR's. I have also studied Operation Barbarossa for over thirty years, and know the historical moves backward. On top of this I have a year of AI play, and have done operation boot-camp several times. My play/moves are more historic you will see, as I believe this the future of the game. I believe that as the patching has improved the game, it has become closer (but not there quite yet) to Realistic operational warfare.
My belief is that those unrealistic teleporting moves made by mobile units, will become a thing of the past. What I found in the early-days of WitP; was that there was a group of players that played to the mechanics of the game. These players initialy dominated the game, but as the game slowly improved (though patching) they lost interest and disappeared. They were than replaced by people with a mainly wargaming background, and a knowledge of the history of the Pacific theater (like me on both counts).
My grounding in this game is from reading the manual inside-out, and also reading most of the AAR's. I have also studied Operation Barbarossa for over thirty years, and know the historical moves backward. On top of this I have a year of AI play, and have done operation boot-camp several times. My play/moves are more historic you will see, as I believe this the future of the game. I believe that as the patching has improved the game, it has become closer (but not there quite yet) to Realistic operational warfare.
My belief is that those unrealistic teleporting moves made by mobile units, will become a thing of the past. What I found in the early-days of WitP; was that there was a group of players that played to the mechanics of the game. These players initialy dominated the game, but as the game slowly improved (though patching) they lost interest and disappeared. They were than replaced by people with a mainly wargaming background, and a knowledge of the history of the Pacific theater (like me on both counts).
When you see the Southern Cross, For the first time
You understand now, Why you came this way
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Tophat1815
- Posts: 1824
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RE: EAGLE VERSES BEAR, bird goes east. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), -No JAMiAM.
Very refreshing take on the game! Thank you for the effort here and go get'em...
RE: EAGLE VERSES BEAR, bird goes east. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), -No JAMiAM.
Hi all,
How is the game going Des?
Leo "Apollo11"
How is the game going Des?
Leo "Apollo11"
Prior Preparation & Planning Prevents Pathetically Poor Performance!
A & B: WitW, WitE, WbtS, GGWaW, GGWaW2-AWD, HttR, CotA, BftB, CF
P: UV, WitP, WitP-AE
EAGLE VERSES BEAR, bird goes east. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), -No JAMiAM.
Hi Leo,
I should have an update during the week. I had my operation on Saturday, but are still in hospital. I have the second turn back from JAMiAM, and will get started on it tomorrow. But the mind is still a bit feeble (took me three attempts to long onto this forum), so I don't want to make any mistakes with the turn.
Des.
I should have an update during the week. I had my operation on Saturday, but are still in hospital. I have the second turn back from JAMiAM, and will get started on it tomorrow. But the mind is still a bit feeble (took me three attempts to long onto this forum), so I don't want to make any mistakes with the turn.
Des.
When you see the Southern Cross, For the first time
You understand now, Why you came this way
RE: EAGLE VERSES BEAR, bird goes east. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), -No JAMiAM.
I hope the operation was a success, get well soon.
I will admit, did not care for your turn 1 - however like Marquo said its a long game.
You still will get all his units in the Llov pocket- they have nowhere to go.
It remains to be seen how effective he will be at isolating your Panzers.
I would try and lockdown or capture Minsk next turn, I think that is worth 4 arms points (he can't move it the first turn).
I like your stated strategy in your first post, and I admire you doing an AAR against a strong opponent.
Good Luck!
I will admit, did not care for your turn 1 - however like Marquo said its a long game.
You still will get all his units in the Llov pocket- they have nowhere to go.
It remains to be seen how effective he will be at isolating your Panzers.
I would try and lockdown or capture Minsk next turn, I think that is worth 4 arms points (he can't move it the first turn).
I like your stated strategy in your first post, and I admire you doing an AAR against a strong opponent.
Good Luck!
EAGLE VERSES BEAR, bird goes east. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), -No JAMiAM.
Turn 2
Army Group North.
In the northern sector JAMiAM managed to isolate the 41 and 56 panzer corps, but this was only a temporary nuisance. As the infantry corps of both the 16th and 18th armies, were easily able to established communications with both panzer corps early in the turn.
The panzer corps of the 1st panzer group had sufficient supplies/fuel to complete their objectives for the second week; with the 41panzer taking Riga, and then pushing the 1st panzer division out to east of the city. While the 56 panzer crossed the River Daugava at Jekabplis, with the 3rd motorized division securing Plavinas. The 56 panzer then advanced the 8th panzer division up the east bank of the Daugava to just below Ogre and the Totenkoft SS motorized division to the crossroads south of Plavinas.
The 18th army advanced one corps north toward the Port of Ventspils and another corps to just east of Riga. While the remaining two of its corps completed the destruction of the enemy units trapped in the Mazeikiai and Siauliai area. The 16th army continued to push two of its corps toward the Daugava area, while its remaining corps continued clearing up the trapped Soviet units around Panaeveys.
Army Group Centre.
In the central sector, JAMiAM didn’t launch any serious counterattacks and I was able to pretty much continue the operational plan. Panzer group 3’s, 57 panzer successfully secured the Daugavpils area, while 39 panzer advanced to the northeast of Minsk into area between Glubokoe and Begoml. The 4th panzer group’s, 47 panzer took Minsk, and advanced its 18th panzer division to Smolevichi east of Minsk. While the 4ths, 24 panzer advanced against some stiff opposition into the area around Starye Dorogi, to the south of Minsk.
The 45th division+ (12 Corps/2 panzer) successfully took Brest Litsovsk in one set piece assault, for the loss of only 182 men, 1 gun, and 2AFVs. The bag taken in the city included 14 mechanized and 28 rifle corps HQs and the 14th mechanized, 6th rifle, and 28th rifle divisions. With the material loss to the Soviets of 21,655 men, 361 guns, and 196 AFVs.
The Infantry corps’s of the 9th army were able to clear most of the remaining trapped Soviet units in the north of the Bialystok pocket. Then push two corps toward Minsk; one to the Lida area, and the other as far as Dzershinsk. The 4th Army moped up the few Soviet units trapped south of Bialystok, and then advanced toward Minsk, reaching the area between Slonim and Ivantsevicihi.
Army Group South.
The situation in the south is pretty-much going according to plan, with Lvov Pocket now securely sealed. But I am finding the opposition a lot stiffer here, with Jeff’s forces already firming up behind the river lines. But despite this I was still able to make some progress to the east, which the 1st panzer group will be able to exploit next turn.
The 1st panzer group has been reinforced to now consist of 4 panzer corps; these are the 46th, 3rd, 48th panzer corps, and the newly arrived 14th panzer corps. The 14th panzer was able to push to just west of Rovno, the 48th panzer to Ostrog, and the 46th panzer reached the area around Stavuta. While the 3rd panzer corps is still operating to the south on the Rumanian boarder and the Dnester River area.
The 6th army has continued the advance in support of the 1st panzer group, and has deployed as far south Chertkov. But will return north to its southern boundary lines of Tarnopol-Vinnitsa, when the 17th clears the Lvov pocket. The 17th army succeeded in taking the city of Lvov, and constricting the Soviet pocket from the north and north east.
Army Group North.
In the northern sector JAMiAM managed to isolate the 41 and 56 panzer corps, but this was only a temporary nuisance. As the infantry corps of both the 16th and 18th armies, were easily able to established communications with both panzer corps early in the turn.
The panzer corps of the 1st panzer group had sufficient supplies/fuel to complete their objectives for the second week; with the 41panzer taking Riga, and then pushing the 1st panzer division out to east of the city. While the 56 panzer crossed the River Daugava at Jekabplis, with the 3rd motorized division securing Plavinas. The 56 panzer then advanced the 8th panzer division up the east bank of the Daugava to just below Ogre and the Totenkoft SS motorized division to the crossroads south of Plavinas.
The 18th army advanced one corps north toward the Port of Ventspils and another corps to just east of Riga. While the remaining two of its corps completed the destruction of the enemy units trapped in the Mazeikiai and Siauliai area. The 16th army continued to push two of its corps toward the Daugava area, while its remaining corps continued clearing up the trapped Soviet units around Panaeveys.
Army Group Centre.
In the central sector, JAMiAM didn’t launch any serious counterattacks and I was able to pretty much continue the operational plan. Panzer group 3’s, 57 panzer successfully secured the Daugavpils area, while 39 panzer advanced to the northeast of Minsk into area between Glubokoe and Begoml. The 4th panzer group’s, 47 panzer took Minsk, and advanced its 18th panzer division to Smolevichi east of Minsk. While the 4ths, 24 panzer advanced against some stiff opposition into the area around Starye Dorogi, to the south of Minsk.
The 45th division+ (12 Corps/2 panzer) successfully took Brest Litsovsk in one set piece assault, for the loss of only 182 men, 1 gun, and 2AFVs. The bag taken in the city included 14 mechanized and 28 rifle corps HQs and the 14th mechanized, 6th rifle, and 28th rifle divisions. With the material loss to the Soviets of 21,655 men, 361 guns, and 196 AFVs.
The Infantry corps’s of the 9th army were able to clear most of the remaining trapped Soviet units in the north of the Bialystok pocket. Then push two corps toward Minsk; one to the Lida area, and the other as far as Dzershinsk. The 4th Army moped up the few Soviet units trapped south of Bialystok, and then advanced toward Minsk, reaching the area between Slonim and Ivantsevicihi.
Army Group South.
The situation in the south is pretty-much going according to plan, with Lvov Pocket now securely sealed. But I am finding the opposition a lot stiffer here, with Jeff’s forces already firming up behind the river lines. But despite this I was still able to make some progress to the east, which the 1st panzer group will be able to exploit next turn.
The 1st panzer group has been reinforced to now consist of 4 panzer corps; these are the 46th, 3rd, 48th panzer corps, and the newly arrived 14th panzer corps. The 14th panzer was able to push to just west of Rovno, the 48th panzer to Ostrog, and the 46th panzer reached the area around Stavuta. While the 3rd panzer corps is still operating to the south on the Rumanian boarder and the Dnester River area.
The 6th army has continued the advance in support of the 1st panzer group, and has deployed as far south Chertkov. But will return north to its southern boundary lines of Tarnopol-Vinnitsa, when the 17th clears the Lvov pocket. The 17th army succeeded in taking the city of Lvov, and constricting the Soviet pocket from the north and north east.
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You understand now, Why you came this way
RE: EAGLE VERSES BEAR, bird goes east. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), -No JAMiAM.
Hi all,
Best wishes Des and good game! [:)]
Leo "Apollo11"
ORIGINAL: DivePac88
I should have an update during the week. I had my operation on Saturday, but are still in hospital. I have the second turn back from JAMiAM, and will get started on it tomorrow. But the mind is still a bit feeble (took me three attempts to long onto this forum), so I don't want to make any mistakes with the turn.
Best wishes Des and good game! [:)]
Leo "Apollo11"
Prior Preparation & Planning Prevents Pathetically Poor Performance!
A & B: WitW, WitE, WbtS, GGWaW, GGWaW2-AWD, HttR, CotA, BftB, CF
P: UV, WitP, WitP-AE
The Bird Goes East. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), No JAMiAM.
Turn 3
Turn 3.
Army Group North.
In this sector JAMiAM did managed to extract a few of his trapped units around Utena, east across the River Daugava, between Daugavpils and Linani. But in this turn I did manage to mop-up the remaining trapped Soviet units west of the Daugava. JAMiAM did not contest the River Daugava line, and appears to be carrying out a general withdraw to the Pskov area.
The 4th panzer group advanced again this turn (having sufficient fuel/supplies), in the direction of Pskov, which I want to secure before he can put a strong defence in place. The 18th army moved some of its corps across the Daugava in support of the panzer group. While the 16th army also got some of its corps across the Daugava around Daugavpils, and will move up to protect the southern flank of the 1st panzer group.
I did some rearranging of the army group; with the 28 corps from the 16th army being moved to the 18th army, and the 6 corps being transferred to the 16th army from 3rd panzer group.
Army Group Centre.
In the central sector the Soviet forces are generally withdrawing east to a line running from Vitebsk in the north, and Mogilev. But he still has a number of divisions forward around Lepel and Klichev, with some units also well west, to the south in the marches between Rabkor and Mikashevichi. JAMiAM also managed to cut off the 4th panzer division just west of Slutsk, but contact was quickly restabilised by the remainder of 24 panzer corps.
The 3rd Panzer group advanced on an axis toward both Vitebsk and Orsha, while the 2nd panzer group’s axis is toward Zhoblin. The 9th army closed up behind the 3rd panzer northeast of Minsk, to provide infantry support and guard the army group’s northern flank. Meanwhile the 4th army mopped up the 2 remaining trapped Soviet divisions around Mosty, then moved up on Minsk and the area south of the city.
The 2nd army has been formed with 3 corps; the 12 (3 divisions), 34 (3 divisions), and 35 (4 divisions), and is moving up to cover the southern flank of the army group.
Army Group South.
The southern sector was again the area that is causing me the most resistance, with JAMiAM opening a corridor into the Lvov pocket south of Tarnopol. He also managed to route the 10th panzer and 10th motorized divisions, from my beachhead across the River Zbruch to the east of Tarnopol.
But I still managed to make some progress in the south with the 1st panzer group’s 14 and 48 corps by taking Rovno, establishing two beachheads across the River Goryn at Kostopol and just north of Slanim. While the remaining two corps of the panzer group (3 and 46) are still operating south of Tarnopol.
The 6th army deployed mainly to the east from the marches in the north, and Tarnopol in the south in support the panzer group. But I have one corps to south of Tarnopol, guarding this trouble area of the Lvov pocket. The 17th army was heavily involved in fight to reduce the Lvov pocket, and is slowly advancing southeast. Meanwhile the 11th army and 3rd Rumanian army, made limited advances to the east and north to the River Dnester.
Turn 3.
Army Group North.
In this sector JAMiAM did managed to extract a few of his trapped units around Utena, east across the River Daugava, between Daugavpils and Linani. But in this turn I did manage to mop-up the remaining trapped Soviet units west of the Daugava. JAMiAM did not contest the River Daugava line, and appears to be carrying out a general withdraw to the Pskov area.
The 4th panzer group advanced again this turn (having sufficient fuel/supplies), in the direction of Pskov, which I want to secure before he can put a strong defence in place. The 18th army moved some of its corps across the Daugava in support of the panzer group. While the 16th army also got some of its corps across the Daugava around Daugavpils, and will move up to protect the southern flank of the 1st panzer group.
I did some rearranging of the army group; with the 28 corps from the 16th army being moved to the 18th army, and the 6 corps being transferred to the 16th army from 3rd panzer group.
Army Group Centre.
In the central sector the Soviet forces are generally withdrawing east to a line running from Vitebsk in the north, and Mogilev. But he still has a number of divisions forward around Lepel and Klichev, with some units also well west, to the south in the marches between Rabkor and Mikashevichi. JAMiAM also managed to cut off the 4th panzer division just west of Slutsk, but contact was quickly restabilised by the remainder of 24 panzer corps.
The 3rd Panzer group advanced on an axis toward both Vitebsk and Orsha, while the 2nd panzer group’s axis is toward Zhoblin. The 9th army closed up behind the 3rd panzer northeast of Minsk, to provide infantry support and guard the army group’s northern flank. Meanwhile the 4th army mopped up the 2 remaining trapped Soviet divisions around Mosty, then moved up on Minsk and the area south of the city.
The 2nd army has been formed with 3 corps; the 12 (3 divisions), 34 (3 divisions), and 35 (4 divisions), and is moving up to cover the southern flank of the army group.
Army Group South.
The southern sector was again the area that is causing me the most resistance, with JAMiAM opening a corridor into the Lvov pocket south of Tarnopol. He also managed to route the 10th panzer and 10th motorized divisions, from my beachhead across the River Zbruch to the east of Tarnopol.
But I still managed to make some progress in the south with the 1st panzer group’s 14 and 48 corps by taking Rovno, establishing two beachheads across the River Goryn at Kostopol and just north of Slanim. While the remaining two corps of the panzer group (3 and 46) are still operating south of Tarnopol.
The 6th army deployed mainly to the east from the marches in the north, and Tarnopol in the south in support the panzer group. But I have one corps to south of Tarnopol, guarding this trouble area of the Lvov pocket. The 17th army was heavily involved in fight to reduce the Lvov pocket, and is slowly advancing southeast. Meanwhile the 11th army and 3rd Rumanian army, made limited advances to the east and north to the River Dnester.
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The Bird Goes East. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), No JAMiAM.
The River Zbruch Battles.
JAMiAM put in two massive attacks on my beachheads across the River Zbruch, forcing the 10th motorized division to retreat to the northern half of beachhead. Then Routeing both the 10th motorized and the 10th panzer divisions back across the river out of the remaining northern part of the beachhead.
As you can see the Soviets took heavy casualties in these attacks, particularly in the second attack and especially in AFVs. But the 10th motorized division suffered so many casualties in both battles, that its TOE is now down to 57/59, and the division will have to go into reserve to refit.
JAMiAM put in two massive attacks on my beachheads across the River Zbruch, forcing the 10th motorized division to retreat to the northern half of beachhead. Then Routeing both the 10th motorized and the 10th panzer divisions back across the river out of the remaining northern part of the beachhead.
As you can see the Soviets took heavy casualties in these attacks, particularly in the second attack and especially in AFVs. But the 10th motorized division suffered so many casualties in both battles, that its TOE is now down to 57/59, and the division will have to go into reserve to refit.
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When you see the Southern Cross, For the first time
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RE: The Bird Goes East. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), No JAMiAM.
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When you see the Southern Cross, For the first time
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The Bird Goes East. DivePac(Ax)v JAMiAM(Sv), No JAMiAM.
Turn 4
Summary.
Overall I am happy with the progress of my campaign against James, with only one area is causing some concern (Army Group South). In many ways my problems are the same as the Germans faced historically, which I suppose is not surprising.
Another dilemma is that I find I can’t keep a tangible theatre reserve and the reinforcement divisions I do receive have to be deployed to the army groups, to get my corps up to sufficient strength. This goes against all my previous operational war gaming practise, and the command training I have had.
The other (historical) difficulty that I am finding is that I am using two different types of armies, with a new fast-moving mechanized army and an old style foot/horse army. This means that after my major advances, my spearhead and Infantry support/flank protection components become dislocated.
Army Group North.
Again in this sector James managed to temporarily isolate some of 56 panzer corps in the area west of Pskov, which cuts down the amount of resupply (practically fuel) they receive. 41 panzer corps easy managed to breakthrough, so 4th panzer Group has now mainly regrouped in this area.
18th army has now pushed its infantry corps up to the 4st panzer group, and will now be able to support, and supply flank protection, to enable the push on Pskov to continue. Meanwhile 16th army has now closed-up on the southern flank of the 18th army, and will provide protect to the southern flank.
Army Group Centre.
In the central sector the Soviet forces are still withdrawing east to a line running from Vitebsk in the north, and Mogilev in the south. James also managed to cut off the 7th panzer division just east of Krupki, but contact was quickly restabilised by the remainder of 39 panzer corps.
The 3rd panzer group has now pushed on in the direction Vitebsk, and is now just west of the city. While the 2nd panzer group has pushed toward Mogilev, and is across the Drut River just west of Mogilev. The panzer group will move across the River Dnepr at Bykhou next turn, and envelope Mogilev from the south.
Meanwhile the infantry corps of the 9th and 4th armies have now closed-up on Minsk, and are moving into position behind the panzer groups. In the next turn both armies will be in position to support the panzer groups, and more importantly their flanks. The 2nd army is also moving up through the marshes, and will be in position to guard the southern flank of the Army group.
Army Group South.
The southern sector was again the area that is putting up the most resistance, with James in strong position along the river lines. But the northern panzer corps has managed to make some progress toward Zhitomir, which I will exploit in the next turn. The plan is to bring the two remaining panzer corps behind the northern panzer corps, and they will swing south toward Vinnitsa.
The 6th army has now moved into position to support the northern panzer corps, and will assist them in the next turn. Meanwhile the 17th army mopped up some of the Soviet units in the Lvov Pocket, and will move into position on the southern flank of the 6th army when this is completed. With the 11th army will advance to the south of the 17th toward Vinnitsa and Odessa.
Summary.
Overall I am happy with the progress of my campaign against James, with only one area is causing some concern (Army Group South). In many ways my problems are the same as the Germans faced historically, which I suppose is not surprising.
Another dilemma is that I find I can’t keep a tangible theatre reserve and the reinforcement divisions I do receive have to be deployed to the army groups, to get my corps up to sufficient strength. This goes against all my previous operational war gaming practise, and the command training I have had.
The other (historical) difficulty that I am finding is that I am using two different types of armies, with a new fast-moving mechanized army and an old style foot/horse army. This means that after my major advances, my spearhead and Infantry support/flank protection components become dislocated.
Army Group North.
Again in this sector James managed to temporarily isolate some of 56 panzer corps in the area west of Pskov, which cuts down the amount of resupply (practically fuel) they receive. 41 panzer corps easy managed to breakthrough, so 4th panzer Group has now mainly regrouped in this area.
18th army has now pushed its infantry corps up to the 4st panzer group, and will now be able to support, and supply flank protection, to enable the push on Pskov to continue. Meanwhile 16th army has now closed-up on the southern flank of the 18th army, and will provide protect to the southern flank.
Army Group Centre.
In the central sector the Soviet forces are still withdrawing east to a line running from Vitebsk in the north, and Mogilev in the south. James also managed to cut off the 7th panzer division just east of Krupki, but contact was quickly restabilised by the remainder of 39 panzer corps.
The 3rd panzer group has now pushed on in the direction Vitebsk, and is now just west of the city. While the 2nd panzer group has pushed toward Mogilev, and is across the Drut River just west of Mogilev. The panzer group will move across the River Dnepr at Bykhou next turn, and envelope Mogilev from the south.
Meanwhile the infantry corps of the 9th and 4th armies have now closed-up on Minsk, and are moving into position behind the panzer groups. In the next turn both armies will be in position to support the panzer groups, and more importantly their flanks. The 2nd army is also moving up through the marshes, and will be in position to guard the southern flank of the Army group.
Army Group South.
The southern sector was again the area that is putting up the most resistance, with James in strong position along the river lines. But the northern panzer corps has managed to make some progress toward Zhitomir, which I will exploit in the next turn. The plan is to bring the two remaining panzer corps behind the northern panzer corps, and they will swing south toward Vinnitsa.
The 6th army has now moved into position to support the northern panzer corps, and will assist them in the next turn. Meanwhile the 17th army mopped up some of the Soviet units in the Lvov Pocket, and will move into position on the southern flank of the 6th army when this is completed. With the 11th army will advance to the south of the 17th toward Vinnitsa and Odessa.
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