Start of turn 1.
A new campaign of 1943-1945 has been started. Kent will be playing the Allies and Mr. Bimmler will be playing Germany.
East Front Control (EFC) is off.
Parameters are normal with the exception of administrative points. Allies are at two hundred percent or represented another way; receiving 20 points per turn instead of 10. As is normal, Germany is receiving half of its administrative points until a garrison region is invaded. This means for now, Axis is receiving five points but that will increase to ten when France is invaded.
Allies will use the additional administrative points to move flak. I believe this will help counteract the Luftwaffe air naval advantage; which I feel is not historically accurate. This additional challenge for the Axis player should also present an exciting challenge. Additional pressure for Germany but also an opportunity to destroy landing sites, and with that many battalions of flak.
This is an open letter to you Mr. Bimmler; since I have not contacted you directly. Thank you for accepting this challenge! You can post anything you wish here and if you need to contact me directly please feel free to leave a (private message) on WitW system. I will also give you my private e-mail there too if you prefer.
If there is any way I can assist you on our challenge just let me know. I certainly do not know everything but I will do my best. I do not keep secrets about a game in progress so just ask and I will respond.
1943-1945 Campaign
Moderator: MOD_WarintheWest
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kentkroeckel
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1943-1945 Campaign
Last edited by kentkroeckel on Sun Jul 05, 2026 2:31 am, edited 1 time in total.
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kentkroeckel
- Posts: 562
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Turn 1 air setup
Start.
There is no Axis turn one so Allies start it. Coming off of an expanded air HQ one would think the air portion of a normal game should be simple. Not the case though. So many items need to be set up; takes hours.
I wanted to show some of the air missions being set. many of these do not have aircraft yet but it helps to get things organized for following turns.
picture one is of naval missions. Both naval headquarters will be making missions around Italy. Total commitment. RAF Naval command and Coastal Air Force. Escorts are also flying with the naval missions.
Next is air superiority. Malta is assigned for this. However, others are helping in this assignment too. RAF Fighter Command is a big part of that too.
Ground attack is the next item. This will be taken care of by Tactical Air Force along with 2 Tactical air Force. 9 US Air Force will also help with this for now.
Final picture is of reconnaissance. Not glamorous. Ha. However, each hex that is being hit with strategic bombing has a reconnaissance (strategic) filming. This is being accomplished by RAF Transport, IX US Troop Carrier, and XII US Troop Carrier.
There is no Axis turn one so Allies start it. Coming off of an expanded air HQ one would think the air portion of a normal game should be simple. Not the case though. So many items need to be set up; takes hours.
I wanted to show some of the air missions being set. many of these do not have aircraft yet but it helps to get things organized for following turns.
picture one is of naval missions. Both naval headquarters will be making missions around Italy. Total commitment. RAF Naval command and Coastal Air Force. Escorts are also flying with the naval missions.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 002558.jpg (228.94 KiB) Viewed 689 times
Next is air superiority. Malta is assigned for this. However, others are helping in this assignment too. RAF Fighter Command is a big part of that too.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 002616.jpg (100.44 KiB) Viewed 689 times
Ground attack is the next item. This will be taken care of by Tactical Air Force along with 2 Tactical air Force. 9 US Air Force will also help with this for now.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 002654.jpg (289.06 KiB) Viewed 689 times
Final picture is of reconnaissance. Not glamorous. Ha. However, each hex that is being hit with strategic bombing has a reconnaissance (strategic) filming. This is being accomplished by RAF Transport, IX US Troop Carrier, and XII US Troop Carrier.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 011806.jpg (151.3 KiB) Viewed 689 times
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kentkroeckel
- Posts: 562
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Turn 1 air setup Strategic
Start.
There are only three air headquarters in normal game that can launch strategic bombing missions. They are, RAF Bomber Command, 8 US Air Force, and 15 US Air Force. ( Name change from Strategic Air Force.)
First picture is of Ruhr area of Germany. RAF Bomber Command have this since they possess night bombing advantage. And yes, all of their missions are set for night. They are coming in at 9,000 feet. This way no flak attack from adjacent hexes or units. All missions have escorts.
Next picture is of 8 US Air Force. It is bombing the U-Boat facilitates. The altitude is at 25,000 feet because any higher and extra fatigue on crews. All missions will have escorts once aircraft are changed out.
Half of the Strategic air Force is attacking the oil fields of Romania's Ploesti. No escort for them. Too far. However, reconnaissance can reach it.
The final part for Strategic Air Force is attacking the normal industrial spots of Italy.
There are only three air headquarters in normal game that can launch strategic bombing missions. They are, RAF Bomber Command, 8 US Air Force, and 15 US Air Force. ( Name change from Strategic Air Force.)
First picture is of Ruhr area of Germany. RAF Bomber Command have this since they possess night bombing advantage. And yes, all of their missions are set for night. They are coming in at 9,000 feet. This way no flak attack from adjacent hexes or units. All missions have escorts.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 002428.jpg (140.84 KiB) Viewed 684 times
Next picture is of 8 US Air Force. It is bombing the U-Boat facilitates. The altitude is at 25,000 feet because any higher and extra fatigue on crews. All missions will have escorts once aircraft are changed out.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 002452.jpg (253.11 KiB) Viewed 684 times
Half of the Strategic air Force is attacking the oil fields of Romania's Ploesti. No escort for them. Too far. However, reconnaissance can reach it.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 002512.jpg (62.95 KiB) Viewed 684 times
The final part for Strategic Air Force is attacking the normal industrial spots of Italy.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 002529.jpg (149.64 KiB) Viewed 684 times
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kentkroeckel
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Turn 1 Allied Air
July 3, 1943.
Weather is perfect.
Germany lost 201 aircraft while Allies lost 441. This lost ratio is a bit disappointing and was set up only by computer for Axis. Still many more Allied aircraft will join the assault on Sicily.
Invasion of Sicily is being done by securing the two initial ports. Each one has a beach near it to ensure they do not get destroyed. This leaves two Task Forces for different landings.
Next picture shows naval interdiction. Though the air portion was costly the result was good. Sicily is first.
Sardinia is below.
I do not know if this is going to be the first and last post of game since Mr. Bimmler has posted another challenge. I have not heard from him either. I will send turn now.
Weather is perfect.
Germany lost 201 aircraft while Allies lost 441. This lost ratio is a bit disappointing and was set up only by computer for Axis. Still many more Allied aircraft will join the assault on Sicily.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 091406.jpg (159.31 KiB) Viewed 661 times
Invasion of Sicily is being done by securing the two initial ports. Each one has a beach near it to ensure they do not get destroyed. This leaves two Task Forces for different landings.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 091236.jpg (71.97 KiB) Viewed 661 times
Next picture shows naval interdiction. Though the air portion was costly the result was good. Sicily is first.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 092055.jpg (366.28 KiB) Viewed 661 times
Sardinia is below.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 092227.jpg (248.5 KiB) Viewed 661 times
I do not know if this is going to be the first and last post of game since Mr. Bimmler has posted another challenge. I have not heard from him either. I will send turn now.
Re: 1943-1945 campaign
Kent, I'm so glad to see you're back at it with an AAR. I really enjoyed your last one.
One question I've had about WITW. Is the only purpose of the Allied Naval Superiority mission to prevent Axis sea transport?
One question I've had about WITW. Is the only purpose of the Allied Naval Superiority mission to prevent Axis sea transport?
Last edited by RedBunny on Sun May 24, 2026 5:30 am, edited 1 time in total.
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kentkroeckel
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Response to Mr. Red Bunny
Thank you for your question Mr. Red Bunny. I Assume you are talking about WitW, since I have not played WitE or the newer WitE2.
The purpose of air naval interdiction is to stop the opponent from receiving supply and troops. Additionally, Axis are trying to prevent invasions. High naval interdiction numbers do create damage on ships moving through them even if the hex is not controlled. A plus 2 gets control but a hex at 9 by Allies and 9 by Axis is still going to be costly for anyone traversing it.
The purpose of air naval interdiction is to stop the opponent from receiving supply and troops. Additionally, Axis are trying to prevent invasions. High naval interdiction numbers do create damage on ships moving through them even if the hex is not controlled. A plus 2 gets control but a hex at 9 by Allies and 9 by Axis is still going to be costly for anyone traversing it.
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kentkroeckel
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Turn 2 Axis
July 10, 1943.
Weather is perfect.
First picture I wanted to show is of Sardinia. Or rather the area above / north, next to Corsica. This is where Germany had substantial air naval interdiction. Below is picture of specific hex action.
Second picture shows the results of this Axis presence. Mr. Bimmler did well in securing the region, thus preventing an invasion of southern France, Corsica, and finally the northern part of Sardinia. Red line shows control for the Luftwaffe while the area below green line shows control for Allies. It is my belief that Germany is not able to stop the Allies in all areas, especially on Germany's first air naval move so this presence is well done by Mr. Bimmler. ports are circled in blue.
Next area of interest is Sicily. Again, the whole island is difficult for Germany to control so picking a single area to prevent isolation is good planning by Mr. Bimmler. He has put emphasis on the closest section of Sicily to mainland Italy. It is also the escape path for any Germany units. Wise to keep it secure.
As before, the red line is the area controlled by the Luftwaffe while the area behind the green line is Allies. A bit of area is now neutral since neither side has a plus two for control. However, Allies will still loose much if the naval interdiction numbers remain during troop movement. As of now the Allies have only lost two transport amphibious ships but receive four per turn. Thirty one cargo ships have been lost but submarine activity does impact 1943. Also, as Allies I have not put much protection for UK. The first priority is securing Sicily.
Weather is perfect.
First picture I wanted to show is of Sardinia. Or rather the area above / north, next to Corsica. This is where Germany had substantial air naval interdiction. Below is picture of specific hex action.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 174328.jpg (142.22 KiB) Viewed 623 times
Second picture shows the results of this Axis presence. Mr. Bimmler did well in securing the region, thus preventing an invasion of southern France, Corsica, and finally the northern part of Sardinia. Red line shows control for the Luftwaffe while the area below green line shows control for Allies. It is my belief that Germany is not able to stop the Allies in all areas, especially on Germany's first air naval move so this presence is well done by Mr. Bimmler. ports are circled in blue.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 174752.jpg (230.99 KiB) Viewed 623 times
Next area of interest is Sicily. Again, the whole island is difficult for Germany to control so picking a single area to prevent isolation is good planning by Mr. Bimmler. He has put emphasis on the closest section of Sicily to mainland Italy. It is also the escape path for any Germany units. Wise to keep it secure.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 174407.jpg (168.02 KiB) Viewed 623 times
As before, the red line is the area controlled by the Luftwaffe while the area behind the green line is Allies. A bit of area is now neutral since neither side has a plus two for control. However, Allies will still loose much if the naval interdiction numbers remain during troop movement. As of now the Allies have only lost two transport amphibious ships but receive four per turn. Thirty one cargo ships have been lost but submarine activity does impact 1943. Also, as Allies I have not put much protection for UK. The first priority is securing Sicily.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 174641.jpg (391.04 KiB) Viewed 623 times
Last edited by kentkroeckel on Sun May 24, 2026 10:27 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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kentkroeckel
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Turn 2 Axis
July 10, 1943.
Victory points for turn are normal, at -30 due to invasion but the good news is that only one victory point was lost due to Axis submarine warfare. Below is breakdown.
Next chart is misleading because it combines actions from first turn as well. So the losses are more like 117 for the Luftwaffe during Axis phase while Allies lost 27. This chart is combining two turns since it is start of game.
The final two pictures I wanted to show how Mr. Bimmler protected Italy from invasion. Both coastlines are safe.
Number two.
Victory points for turn are normal, at -30 due to invasion but the good news is that only one victory point was lost due to Axis submarine warfare. Below is breakdown.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 175240.jpg (108.58 KiB) Viewed 614 times
Next chart is misleading because it combines actions from first turn as well. So the losses are more like 117 for the Luftwaffe during Axis phase while Allies lost 27. This chart is combining two turns since it is start of game.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 174921.jpg (164.83 KiB) Viewed 614 times
The final two pictures I wanted to show how Mr. Bimmler protected Italy from invasion. Both coastlines are safe.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 175912.jpg (301.88 KiB) Viewed 614 times
Number two.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 175933.jpg (142.45 KiB) Viewed 614 times
Last edited by kentkroeckel on Sun May 24, 2026 10:28 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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kentkroeckel
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Turn 2 Allies
July 10, 1943.
Just about ready to run air phase but did want to make a comment about Sicily. It appears that Mr. Bimmler has withdrawn from a coastal fight. This may be due to each port being protected by a beach force. I did not expect this withdraw but assumed fierce fighting.
An important reason for the beaches is that a captured port is often limited in capacity. Additionally, the ports of Gela and Siracusa are small so supply is never substantial.
Just finished air phase and it went well for Germany. Axis lost 304 while Allies lost 559. This is a Luftwaffe advantage of 255. But on German phase Axis lost about 80 planes more.
Ground phase has been peculiar on Sicily. I do not know where the Italians are. Mr. Bimmler has moved them well so it leaves the Allies guessing. As I said earlier on this post, Allies are committing all to taking Sicily. All Task Forces. In the picture below you can see on the western tip of Sicily the port of Trapani is being invaded.
The hex near the east point, Messina is also being invaded. Airborne was used to help isolate Sicily from Messina. The air landing was successful. Naval invasion is going through Axis controlled hexes but the reward for Allies make this worth it. Blue is invasions and pink is airborne drop hexes. The reason the airborne drop happened this turn instead of when the naval invasion happens next turn is that the hex is within 8 hexes of line so is treated as normal drop.
In the middle of Sicily the town of Termini was assaulted by air. This might lead to Sicily being cut in half for supply. As it is, I believe the western portion of the Island will be isolated due to naval interdiction.
Final picture is of battle since the Battle Locator Mode (BLM) is working. An Italian unit was attacked by British and forced to retreated. It was then attacked again by American forces. This forced a surrender.
Just about ready to run air phase but did want to make a comment about Sicily. It appears that Mr. Bimmler has withdrawn from a coastal fight. This may be due to each port being protected by a beach force. I did not expect this withdraw but assumed fierce fighting.
An important reason for the beaches is that a captured port is often limited in capacity. Additionally, the ports of Gela and Siracusa are small so supply is never substantial.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 224359.jpg (233.48 KiB) Viewed 604 times
Just finished air phase and it went well for Germany. Axis lost 304 while Allies lost 559. This is a Luftwaffe advantage of 255. But on German phase Axis lost about 80 planes more.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 225311.jpg (169.39 KiB) Viewed 603 times
Ground phase has been peculiar on Sicily. I do not know where the Italians are. Mr. Bimmler has moved them well so it leaves the Allies guessing. As I said earlier on this post, Allies are committing all to taking Sicily. All Task Forces. In the picture below you can see on the western tip of Sicily the port of Trapani is being invaded.
The hex near the east point, Messina is also being invaded. Airborne was used to help isolate Sicily from Messina. The air landing was successful. Naval invasion is going through Axis controlled hexes but the reward for Allies make this worth it. Blue is invasions and pink is airborne drop hexes. The reason the airborne drop happened this turn instead of when the naval invasion happens next turn is that the hex is within 8 hexes of line so is treated as normal drop.
In the middle of Sicily the town of Termini was assaulted by air. This might lead to Sicily being cut in half for supply. As it is, I believe the western portion of the Island will be isolated due to naval interdiction.
- Screenshot 2026-05-23 234751.jpg (230.15 KiB) Viewed 595 times
- Screenshot 2026-05-24 000111.jpg (192.73 KiB) Viewed 595 times
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kentkroeckel
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Turn 2 Reflection
July 10, 1943.
Did not receive a turn the last couple of days so wanted to write another detail about turn 2. Mr. Bimmler has positioned axis units well in protecting the eastern portion of Sicily. Units are spread out to take advantage of land features such as volcano and mountain hexes. Axis units block the paths between them so all should have been good.
However, those pesky Allies performed an amphibious invasion along with an airborne drop. Assuming the naval is okay, then Axis units are almost out of supply. If the port of Catania is isolated due to naval control, then there is no supply and units will be isolated. Of course Germany may be able to take one hex back, at which point supply is restored. I just wanted to emphasize that Allies had to travel through two Axis controlled hexes to mount this invasion. Controlled hexes can be traversed but there is a cost.
Clarification: Any Axis naval action cannot happen next to a task force. All is destroyed. Meaning tracing supply or having units pass next to a task force.
The goal of the Trapani invasion is to help isolate the port of Palerino; located along the northern coast of Sicily. It is a major port and needs to be separated from the rest of Sicily. Then isolated units can be removed. Point is, remove supply sources then concentrate on isolated units.
There has been minimal air combat in Mediterranean so Allies will be moving all tactical level bombers to United Kingdom. Better use there in strategic bombing. Tactical bombing in Italy will be accomplished by tactical bombers.
Did not receive a turn the last couple of days so wanted to write another detail about turn 2. Mr. Bimmler has positioned axis units well in protecting the eastern portion of Sicily. Units are spread out to take advantage of land features such as volcano and mountain hexes. Axis units block the paths between them so all should have been good.
However, those pesky Allies performed an amphibious invasion along with an airborne drop. Assuming the naval is okay, then Axis units are almost out of supply. If the port of Catania is isolated due to naval control, then there is no supply and units will be isolated. Of course Germany may be able to take one hex back, at which point supply is restored. I just wanted to emphasize that Allies had to travel through two Axis controlled hexes to mount this invasion. Controlled hexes can be traversed but there is a cost.
Clarification: Any Axis naval action cannot happen next to a task force. All is destroyed. Meaning tracing supply or having units pass next to a task force.
The goal of the Trapani invasion is to help isolate the port of Palerino; located along the northern coast of Sicily. It is a major port and needs to be separated from the rest of Sicily. Then isolated units can be removed. Point is, remove supply sources then concentrate on isolated units.
There has been minimal air combat in Mediterranean so Allies will be moving all tactical level bombers to United Kingdom. Better use there in strategic bombing. Tactical bombing in Italy will be accomplished by tactical bombers.
Last edited by kentkroeckel on Tue May 26, 2026 9:37 pm, edited 2 times in total.
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kentkroeckel
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Turn 3 Axis phase
July 17, 1943.
Weather is perfect in Italy. Rain is falling over France and England. Water level 2.
Victory points: -1 for turn and - 31 for game.
German air phase. Luftwaffe lost 127 while Allies lost 52.
Germany did one attack. Totals from that and air attacks are 1,076 axis soldiers lost while Allies lost 2,820.
Below is the one attack by Germany. The Italians first moved back into the city they had been pushed out of and then attacked.
Fourth picture shows how Allied beach is isolated by Germany. Mr. Bimmler has maintained control; good for Germany. this puts pressure on Allies to reach the isolated beach before it is destroyed.
In the comments you can leave in the game turn, (auto messaging), Mr. Bimmler wrote, "Not bad, could do better".
To this I say, Mr. Bimmler is correct in analysis with the landing near Messina. Allies should have committed more air naval assets. I got careless since Sicily was not being defended as heavily as I had originally anticipated and more importantly, set up for. Allies paid for this in lost amphibious transports. Six were lost this turn and there is still allied air and ground movement to do.
Weather is perfect in Italy. Rain is falling over France and England. Water level 2.
Victory points: -1 for turn and - 31 for game.
German air phase. Luftwaffe lost 127 while Allies lost 52.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 145756.jpg (164.5 KiB) Viewed 501 times
Germany did one attack. Totals from that and air attacks are 1,076 axis soldiers lost while Allies lost 2,820.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 145720.jpg (161.26 KiB) Viewed 501 times
Below is the one attack by Germany. The Italians first moved back into the city they had been pushed out of and then attacked.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 151607.jpg (258.04 KiB) Viewed 501 times
Fourth picture shows how Allied beach is isolated by Germany. Mr. Bimmler has maintained control; good for Germany. this puts pressure on Allies to reach the isolated beach before it is destroyed.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 152125.jpg (69.68 KiB) Viewed 501 times
In the comments you can leave in the game turn, (auto messaging), Mr. Bimmler wrote, "Not bad, could do better".
To this I say, Mr. Bimmler is correct in analysis with the landing near Messina. Allies should have committed more air naval assets. I got careless since Sicily was not being defended as heavily as I had originally anticipated and more importantly, set up for. Allies paid for this in lost amphibious transports. Six were lost this turn and there is still allied air and ground movement to do.
Last edited by kentkroeckel on Wed May 27, 2026 12:52 am, edited 1 time in total.
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kentkroeckel
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Turn 3 Axis air results
July 17, 1943.
First picture show Germany doing reconnaissance at southern end of Sicily, keeping track of Allied movement.
Second picture shows how Germany is attacking the Messiana area, keeping Allied landing isolated and under pressure.
Third picture shows the Luftwaffe protecting the northern area of Sardinia and Corsica.
Final picture shows results. Italy mainland is heavy protected from invasion. Axis control only goes to the tip of Sicily. Just the area needed to protect the port of Messina. Mr. Bimmler has used Axis air resources well in protecting the areas nessecary to prevent a mainland invasion of Italy. Red line represents Axis naval control while green is Allied control. Black area is where Allies need to take control to rescue invasion site.
First picture show Germany doing reconnaissance at southern end of Sicily, keeping track of Allied movement.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 154008.jpg (165.65 KiB) Viewed 492 times
Second picture shows how Germany is attacking the Messiana area, keeping Allied landing isolated and under pressure.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 154024.jpg (145.38 KiB) Viewed 492 times
Third picture shows the Luftwaffe protecting the northern area of Sardinia and Corsica.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 154101.jpg (51.42 KiB) Viewed 492 times
Final picture shows results. Italy mainland is heavy protected from invasion. Axis control only goes to the tip of Sicily. Just the area needed to protect the port of Messina. Mr. Bimmler has used Axis air resources well in protecting the areas nessecary to prevent a mainland invasion of Italy. Red line represents Axis naval control while green is Allied control. Black area is where Allies need to take control to rescue invasion site.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 154252.jpg (317.63 KiB) Viewed 492 times
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kentkroeckel
- Posts: 562
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Turn 3 Allied Air
July 17, 1943.
I wanted to show how the reconnaissance missions are tied to the strategic bombing missions. By the way, it is raining in England and France. Each target is being surveyed seven times a week to help increase effectiveness. First two pictures are for submarine facilities. First is reconnaissance.
Next is the bombing missions on those targets. 8 US Air Force.
Below is the reconnaissance of Ruhr Germany.
This area is being attacked by the RAF Bomber Command.
Wanted to explain a few details. All of the above missions have been placed on maximum altitude despite the extra fatigue. (Some are above 25,000 feet fatigue threshold). all missions have escorts. British missions are at night and have strictly night fighters.
I wanted to show how the reconnaissance missions are tied to the strategic bombing missions. By the way, it is raining in England and France. Each target is being surveyed seven times a week to help increase effectiveness. First two pictures are for submarine facilities. First is reconnaissance.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 210845.jpg (308.61 KiB) Viewed 481 times
Next is the bombing missions on those targets. 8 US Air Force.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 210921.jpg (253.97 KiB) Viewed 481 times
Below is the reconnaissance of Ruhr Germany.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 210902.jpg (190.38 KiB) Viewed 481 times
This area is being attacked by the RAF Bomber Command.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 210934.jpg (84.39 KiB) Viewed 481 times
Wanted to explain a few details. All of the above missions have been placed on maximum altitude despite the extra fatigue. (Some are above 25,000 feet fatigue threshold). all missions have escorts. British missions are at night and have strictly night fighters.
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kentkroeckel
- Posts: 562
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- Location: USA Colorado
Turn 3 Allied Air
July 17, 1943.
Just finished air phase. Mr. Bimmler has placed the Luftwaffe further north of Sicily.
The northern part of Sardinia and Corsica are being heavily protected.
Allied air phase: Germany lost 373 while Allies lost 407. Combined with Axis phase totals are 500 for Axis while Allies lost 457. One of the rare times Allies lost fewer planes.
Next picture is that of lost units for turn. This is typical so no great ability on Allies' part but it is fun to observe. Italians have many flak battalions at ports and the following is the list for them lost this turn.
Just finished air phase. Mr. Bimmler has placed the Luftwaffe further north of Sicily.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 220612.jpg (232.77 KiB) Viewed 476 times
The northern part of Sardinia and Corsica are being heavily protected.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 220635.jpg (155.37 KiB) Viewed 476 times
Allied air phase: Germany lost 373 while Allies lost 407. Combined with Axis phase totals are 500 for Axis while Allies lost 457. One of the rare times Allies lost fewer planes.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 221125.jpg (170.22 KiB) Viewed 476 times
Next picture is that of lost units for turn. This is typical so no great ability on Allies' part but it is fun to observe. Italians have many flak battalions at ports and the following is the list for them lost this turn.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 221403.jpg (186.34 KiB) Viewed 476 times
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kentkroeckel
- Posts: 562
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Turn 3 Allied Ground
July 17, 1943.
Below are some Italian surrenders. Not all but most. They almost always do this if isolated so I make it a priority if possible. Otherwise they will simply route.
One: Bottom of Sicily in town of Agrigento. Several battles over it.
Two: West part of Sicily. Town of Marsala
Three: Main port of Palermo
Four: Western hex of Sicily.
Below are some Italian surrenders. Not all but most. They almost always do this if isolated so I make it a priority if possible. Otherwise they will simply route.
One: Bottom of Sicily in town of Agrigento. Several battles over it.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 222545.jpg (210.86 KiB) Viewed 470 times
Two: West part of Sicily. Town of Marsala
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 222630.jpg (158.19 KiB) Viewed 470 times
Three: Main port of Palermo
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 222806.jpg (153.29 KiB) Viewed 470 times
Four: Western hex of Sicily.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 222729.jpg (122.5 KiB) Viewed 470 times
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kentkroeckel
- Posts: 562
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- Location: USA Colorado
Turn 3 Allied Conclusion
July 17, 1943.
I wanted to show what the naval control looked like during Allied phase. There was one more amphibious ship lost, for a total of 7. Only four are received each turn.
Next picture shows Italian units cut off from the main port of Messina. However, there are three German armor divisions on this port so it is well protected. Mr. Bimmler might even attempt to break Allied line of containment.
Next picture is of last port that Italy has on southern Sicily. It is isolated by sea.
Last picture is of Sicily in total. Next turn I will talk about surrender options for Italy. There seems to be confusion on how this happens.
Final thought for turn. Mr. Bimmler was very successful in intercepting Allied strategic bombing. He had several hundred aircraft attacking individual missions.
I wanted to show what the naval control looked like during Allied phase. There was one more amphibious ship lost, for a total of 7. Only four are received each turn.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 225821.jpg (283.23 KiB) Viewed 467 times
Next picture shows Italian units cut off from the main port of Messina. However, there are three German armor divisions on this port so it is well protected. Mr. Bimmler might even attempt to break Allied line of containment.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 230157.jpg (89.42 KiB) Viewed 467 times
Next picture is of last port that Italy has on southern Sicily. It is isolated by sea.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 230237.jpg (91.15 KiB) Viewed 467 times
Last picture is of Sicily in total. Next turn I will talk about surrender options for Italy. There seems to be confusion on how this happens.
- Screenshot 2026-05-26 231200.jpg (214.93 KiB) Viewed 465 times
Final thought for turn. Mr. Bimmler was very successful in intercepting Allied strategic bombing. He had several hundred aircraft attacking individual missions.
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kentkroeckel
- Posts: 562
- Joined: Mon Jun 26, 2017 6:32 pm
- Location: USA Colorado
Re: Italian Surrender
How Italian surrender happens:
Italy surrenders in three ways. (Manual 18.1.) Different methods are used but all three start by one action. An Allied unit must be in supply on Mainland Italy. No exceptions. Does not matter if all three islands are captured by Allies; Corsica, Sardinia, or Italy. the above still holds true. By the way, the three Italian islands are not considered part of mainland Italy.
Time has an impact on surrender of Italy. Below is in [Living Manual]
[V1.00.07 – 19 December 2014
Rule Change - Italy will never surrender prior to August 1943.]
The above rules says it clearly; Italy will not surrender in July of 1943 under any circumstance. This means that if a condition of surrender is achieved in July it still needs to be present on the first week of August of 1943 for Italy to surrender. I hope this makes sense so far.
First surrender path: An Allied unit is going to conduct an invasion on Italy. (Manual 18.1.) This is usually accomplished by amphibious invasion but I suppose could be by airborne drop. However, the check would be made on the following turn during Axis logistics. the main point is, this is a one time chance for Italy to surrender. It represents the government trying to get out of the war. There are no modifications for German combat value; (taken at face value). Totals are from all of Italy mainland. (North and south).
Random number is from 1-200. (Manual 18.1.1) Whichever number is greater wins. Meaning, If German combat value is greatest, Italy keeps fighting. If the random number is greatest Italy surrenders and switches over to Allies.
Second surrender path: Conditions for this is similar to first surrender method but this is made every turn Allies have a supplied unit on mainland Italy. (manual 18.1.1) Determining outcome is the same as in first surrender method.
Third surrender path. This option only happens when one of the three Italian islands are controlled by Allies. (Manual 18.1.1) Same conditions apply, like; never in July of 1943. However, this path does get a bonus for Allies controlling an island.
Allied bonus: Any German unit that is more than ten hexes away from an Allied unit has its combat value divided by four.
Example: Most likely German units in Northern Italy, like the garrison; will be quartered in value. This would mean the 40 combat points required would only be worth 10 against the random number.
Rule change [Living Manual V1.00.07 – 19 December 2014]
In August 1943, the German garrison value in Italy is never divided by 4 when determining Italian surrender.
With this rule change the first, second, and third path for Italian surrender all use the same method when determining German combat face value in August of 1943.
Italy surrenders in three ways. (Manual 18.1.) Different methods are used but all three start by one action. An Allied unit must be in supply on Mainland Italy. No exceptions. Does not matter if all three islands are captured by Allies; Corsica, Sardinia, or Italy. the above still holds true. By the way, the three Italian islands are not considered part of mainland Italy.
Time has an impact on surrender of Italy. Below is in [Living Manual]
[V1.00.07 – 19 December 2014
Rule Change - Italy will never surrender prior to August 1943.]
The above rules says it clearly; Italy will not surrender in July of 1943 under any circumstance. This means that if a condition of surrender is achieved in July it still needs to be present on the first week of August of 1943 for Italy to surrender. I hope this makes sense so far.
First surrender path: An Allied unit is going to conduct an invasion on Italy. (Manual 18.1.) This is usually accomplished by amphibious invasion but I suppose could be by airborne drop. However, the check would be made on the following turn during Axis logistics. the main point is, this is a one time chance for Italy to surrender. It represents the government trying to get out of the war. There are no modifications for German combat value; (taken at face value). Totals are from all of Italy mainland. (North and south).
Random number is from 1-200. (Manual 18.1.1) Whichever number is greater wins. Meaning, If German combat value is greatest, Italy keeps fighting. If the random number is greatest Italy surrenders and switches over to Allies.
Second surrender path: Conditions for this is similar to first surrender method but this is made every turn Allies have a supplied unit on mainland Italy. (manual 18.1.1) Determining outcome is the same as in first surrender method.
Third surrender path. This option only happens when one of the three Italian islands are controlled by Allies. (Manual 18.1.1) Same conditions apply, like; never in July of 1943. However, this path does get a bonus for Allies controlling an island.
Allied bonus: Any German unit that is more than ten hexes away from an Allied unit has its combat value divided by four.
Example: Most likely German units in Northern Italy, like the garrison; will be quartered in value. This would mean the 40 combat points required would only be worth 10 against the random number.
Rule change [Living Manual V1.00.07 – 19 December 2014]
In August 1943, the German garrison value in Italy is never divided by 4 when determining Italian surrender.
With this rule change the first, second, and third path for Italian surrender all use the same method when determining German combat face value in August of 1943.
Last edited by kentkroeckel on Thu May 28, 2026 12:57 am, edited 2 times in total.
Re: Italian Surrender
Thanks for the great writeup on Italian surrender Kent, and thanks again for your great AAR!
I don't have WITW yet, but I was wondering how Allied control of Corsica and Sardinia works in the game. Do they "go Allied" when Italy surrenders or do the Allies have to invade and conquer them?
I don't have WITW yet, but I was wondering how Allied control of Corsica and Sardinia works in the game. Do they "go Allied" when Italy surrenders or do the Allies have to invade and conquer them?
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kentkroeckel
- Posts: 562
- Joined: Mon Jun 26, 2017 6:32 pm
- Location: USA Colorado
Response on Italian Surrender
Thank you for your question Mr. Red Bunny. It is sort of a mixed answer unfortunately.
Effects of Italian surrender:
All Italian units on Mainland Italy surrender and are removed from play. The same applies to Sicily. (Manual 18.1.2)
Italian units that are on Corsica and Sardinia may convert to Allied control. However, they cannot be on the same hex as a German unit during conversion. The Italian unit must also be infantry or armor. All other types are removed. This includes air and headquarters. This is the basic Italian surrender.
In five turns these Allied Italian units disappear and get processed. This includes any that are isolated too. They just magically transform and materialize later in North Africa. Ha.
Forgot to mention that half of the Italian transports are removed from play when Italy surrenders. Yet this does not matter much unless German player has reinforced Sardinia and Corsica. Then it will matter. Air transport will become important too in this case.
Effects of Italian surrender:
All Italian units on Mainland Italy surrender and are removed from play. The same applies to Sicily. (Manual 18.1.2)
Italian units that are on Corsica and Sardinia may convert to Allied control. However, they cannot be on the same hex as a German unit during conversion. The Italian unit must also be infantry or armor. All other types are removed. This includes air and headquarters. This is the basic Italian surrender.
In five turns these Allied Italian units disappear and get processed. This includes any that are isolated too. They just magically transform and materialize later in North Africa. Ha.
Forgot to mention that half of the Italian transports are removed from play when Italy surrenders. Yet this does not matter much unless German player has reinforced Sardinia and Corsica. Then it will matter. Air transport will become important too in this case.
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kentkroeckel
- Posts: 562
- Joined: Mon Jun 26, 2017 6:32 pm
- Location: USA Colorado
Game Strategy
Did not receive a turn tonight so wanted to write an observation of the challenge so far.
Mr. Bimmler's strategy seems to be refusing to engage the Allies on Sicily. A good move indeed, preserving German units. The Italians do not matter and are best used as blocking units; which Mr. Bimmler has done. The main port of Messina is heavily protected with two German mechanized divisions and a strong brigade. It would look like the Axis do not intend on giving it up.
This may come as a surprise to some, but the Allies (Kent) is okay with this. There are still three more weeks before Italy can surrender. Moreover, Allies will not have the Italian units cleared out of Sicily for that long.
Starting in August of 1943 Allies will have to decided how to approach mainland Italy. Of course right now Task Forces are being readied but they can be changed if necessity dictates. There needs to be flexibility so that German defenses can be best approached. Allies cannot reveal more than that for now.
One observation I can talk about is how well the Luftwaffe has been intercepting and and causing losses to strategic bombing missions. The number of interceptors is troubling. Well done Mr. Bimmler! To counter this Allied Command is going to reposition hundreds more fighter bombers to United Kingdom for escort duty. All are and will be fighter trained. I personally hope for epic fights over the Ruhr. Some missions will even be during daylight.
Mr. Bimmler's strategy seems to be refusing to engage the Allies on Sicily. A good move indeed, preserving German units. The Italians do not matter and are best used as blocking units; which Mr. Bimmler has done. The main port of Messina is heavily protected with two German mechanized divisions and a strong brigade. It would look like the Axis do not intend on giving it up.
This may come as a surprise to some, but the Allies (Kent) is okay with this. There are still three more weeks before Italy can surrender. Moreover, Allies will not have the Italian units cleared out of Sicily for that long.
Starting in August of 1943 Allies will have to decided how to approach mainland Italy. Of course right now Task Forces are being readied but they can be changed if necessity dictates. There needs to be flexibility so that German defenses can be best approached. Allies cannot reveal more than that for now.
One observation I can talk about is how well the Luftwaffe has been intercepting and and causing losses to strategic bombing missions. The number of interceptors is troubling. Well done Mr. Bimmler! To counter this Allied Command is going to reposition hundreds more fighter bombers to United Kingdom for escort duty. All are and will be fighter trained. I personally hope for epic fights over the Ruhr. Some missions will even be during daylight.