Last week I got the north, central, and southeastern half of the Pacific done for February 15-28, 1942. This report will cover operations during that time for the DEI-China-Burma Theatres.
Philippines
My operational tempo begins to pick-up as I get substantial reinforcements from the Fall of Fortress Singapore. Multiple Divisions, Regiments of Engineers, and Artilllery units arrive. I land nearly all of them at Naga. My attack will center on the drive through Manila to get to Clark/Bataan. A diversionary attack will be made at San Marcelino in the north to draw off forces.
Ground Ops:
San Marcelino I cross the river into this hex and steadily attack and reduce the Forts there. During this time I attack on the 16th, 24th, with an Allied Counterattack on the 26th. Initially there are 2 Phil Div and 2BF, this commitment grows by 2 additional Div so my distraction seemeingly works.
Manila I HATE city fighting! Prefer it to an Assault River crossing though... I launch several attacks on the 18th, 22nd, and 28th. Don't make much progress but gradually build-up strength as my numbers increase with reinforcements arriving.
Lingayen The move I have feared occurs on Feb 25th. The Allies decide on an attack from Clark to this base. Luckily, I have JUST enough strength to throw back a single Phil Division. My opponents do not realize how close they come to causing real trouble. If there had been several units in teh attack, I would have lost the base and hex...
Continous air operations occur here with my planes hitting Manila and Clark airfields. Since my opponents have shown a decided interest in re-basing planes at these bases for surprise attacks, I want to close them down and KEEP THEM THAT WAY!
On the 18th over 100+ 2EB/$EB move into Clark and stage surprise raids. I lose a few planes and take damage but manage over the next several days to beat back the attacks and destroy a decent number of B-17s and Liberators. They are pulled out by the 24th.
Eastern DEI
Am consolidating my hold on Timor and mopping up small Allied units in the region. There is some give-and-take between planes based in NW Australia and my aircraft in Timor. Several ships are hit, damaged, or sunk by LBA.
Bases Captured: Menado, Sul--Feb 16th (3750 POW)
Western DEI
Am finishing up the capture of Sumatra using two Infantry Brigades that will then move to Rangoon.
Bases Captured: Medan, Sum--16th (900 POW), Kuala, Sum--21st, and Sabang, Sum--26th
Allied SS are HIGHLY active here hitting targets nearly every other day. I have two small ASW Groups in the area but am not having much luck hitting SS. I do catch 2 and damage them during these two weeks.
Java
I am bogged down here! After taking the entire island except the area around Soerabaja, the movement bug has grabbed my troops. They are reduced to moving at 2-4 miles per day on a perfectly FINE road....grrrrr....several units begin to lay seige to Soerabaja starting on the 22nd.
The air war is quite active. I bomb Soerabaja nearly every day and lose 1-5 bombers each time. The Flak must be THICK over this town. Intelligence reports over 30 units here...
Burma
There is considerable action here. I have gone as far as possible until I gain real reinforcements from other areas. Mandalay and Akyab is where the lines sit. I'll take them, just a matter of waiting...
The air war here is hot and heavy. There are a lot of British and refugee American units here and they are being used heavily! I try to hit Akyab and Mandalay as often as possible but other areas have greater priority. Until I reinforce this theatre, it will continue to be an aerial stalemate also...
Naval Actions continues to roll! There is give-and-take here also:
17th--CL Jintso hits a mine during Andaman Bombardment
18th--DD hits mine at Rangoon (send MSW to clean-up area)
19th--KB-3 gets into the action! CVL Zuiho, CVL Ryujo, CVE Hosho, and CVE Kaiyo do some anti-shipping action. They sink an AK.
23rd--CL Jintsu takes a Bomb from LBA while heading for Singapore.
China
I am prepping for an attack on Hengchow from Changsha and have the seige going on in Yenen. Daily air raids hit both cities.
Yenen: attack on the 17th and reduce Forts from 4 to 3, get no benefit from an attack on the 21st, and the AVG appear over Yenen to successfully knock back my air attacks on the 23rd.
Feb 15-28, 1942
Totals for the Two-Weeks:
Ships Sunk
Japanese 12 Total--1DD, 1SS, 8AK, and 2AP
Allied 18 Total--2DD, 1PG, 1MSW, 8AK, 1AP, 3TK, and CL Raleigh
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 38 F, 4DB, 3TB, 34 B, and 2R Total: 81 aircraft
Allied 39 F, 23 B, 5 B-17, 7 Liberators, 3 Trans and 9Recon Total: 84 aircraft
From Here It SEEMS Like an Eternity...Imperial Japan's Thoughts
Moderators: wdolson, Don Bowen, mogami
February 15-29, 1942 DEI Reports
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
March 1-15, 1942 Pacific Action
Combat Report
March 1-15, 1942
North Pacific
Area remains very quiet. See some MSW going on at Anchorage. I have been using some of my SS to hinder his moving shipping between Anchorage and Dutch Harbor.
Central Pacific
Canton Waiting for fuel to arrive! Cannot believe that I took this island and did not have several convoys formed and en route with fuel and supplies. Stupid oversight on my part! After damaging a few of his SS here, I do not have to deal with very many sub attacks. Should note that a Daitai of Betty attacks a Palmyra convoy on March 6th and damage two AK. Since Canton is still a Lvl-3 AF, I didn’t have TT! Darn…
Pago-Pago I do not have the readily available strength open yet to take this island. My recon consistently reports six units here as well as about 100 planes. I WANT ALL OF THEM! Once Suva/Nandi falls, I will move in and take this island. I do have a small bombardment force hit the island on the 10th.
Until then, I need to cut it off from the rest of the world.
Tongatapu To start this process, I land and capture this island on March 1st. Gain 600 POWs and a Sz-2 AF. Load a Ftr and DB Sentai from Canton to land here. Send a BF that was approaching Noumea to this destination as well. While unloading, this TF is hit by several SS. I have a CL and DD hit by TT and I damage 2SS in return.
KB-1 and SS I use a combination of KB-1 (Akagi/Kaga/Soryu) and 5 Glen carrying SS to form a cordon around Pago-Pago. If he tries to bring anything in or take troops off, it will be sunk.
SE Pacific
Noumea Having just captured this target, I spend time reorganizing and off-loading troops and planes. I have 2 Daitai of Zeros, 1 Sentai of Helen, 2 Daitai of Betty, 1 Daitai of Kates, and 1 Daitai of Vals. The AF and Port are not too damaged from the capture so things look pretty good. It will serve as a fine platform for the invasion of New Zealand.
Suva/Nandi Primary focus in this two week period is the capture of these bases. Recon shows that Nandi is NOT defended so I chose to land there and then overland march to Suva. I capture Nandi on March 12th and immediately move a Daitai of Zeros there to protect my convoys while offloading. The Americans have some B-17s here and they have ineffectually tried to attack my forces. I bombard Suva twice on the 7th and 14th doing minor damage.
KB-2 My opponents try to either evacuate or reinforce these bases only to meet up with KB-2 (Shokaku, Zuikaku, Shoho--with Zuiho on the way from Singapore). Several AK and TK are attacked and sunk South of the island.
Allied SS The Americans must be screaming to high-heaven during this time. In the space of two weeks, US SS get 7 separate chances to attack major units of the Imperial Navy. Four of these chances are against Japanese CV! All of them result in TT ‘fail to detonate.’ I’ll personally thank the American developer of the magnetic TT…for their bravery, a number of American SS get damaged by ASW attack.
Norfolk Isle I land and capture this island on March 6th. Move a BF there and begin building an AF. Seaplane Recon moves there on the 15th to help keep an eye out for things…
Should note that on March 5th, the first reinforcements to the Pacific from China begin loading. The 5th and 6th Independent Brigades (at full strength) begin embarkation at Tientsin, China. I changed their HQ two weeks ago and let them sit and rebuild themselves at Tientsin for nearly a month. They will help with the capture of New Zealand and then serve as garrison units there.
Will add the DEI action for this 14 day period tomorrow.
March 1-15, 1942
North Pacific
Area remains very quiet. See some MSW going on at Anchorage. I have been using some of my SS to hinder his moving shipping between Anchorage and Dutch Harbor.
Central Pacific
Canton Waiting for fuel to arrive! Cannot believe that I took this island and did not have several convoys formed and en route with fuel and supplies. Stupid oversight on my part! After damaging a few of his SS here, I do not have to deal with very many sub attacks. Should note that a Daitai of Betty attacks a Palmyra convoy on March 6th and damage two AK. Since Canton is still a Lvl-3 AF, I didn’t have TT! Darn…
Pago-Pago I do not have the readily available strength open yet to take this island. My recon consistently reports six units here as well as about 100 planes. I WANT ALL OF THEM! Once Suva/Nandi falls, I will move in and take this island. I do have a small bombardment force hit the island on the 10th.
Until then, I need to cut it off from the rest of the world.
Tongatapu To start this process, I land and capture this island on March 1st. Gain 600 POWs and a Sz-2 AF. Load a Ftr and DB Sentai from Canton to land here. Send a BF that was approaching Noumea to this destination as well. While unloading, this TF is hit by several SS. I have a CL and DD hit by TT and I damage 2SS in return.
KB-1 and SS I use a combination of KB-1 (Akagi/Kaga/Soryu) and 5 Glen carrying SS to form a cordon around Pago-Pago. If he tries to bring anything in or take troops off, it will be sunk.
SE Pacific
Noumea Having just captured this target, I spend time reorganizing and off-loading troops and planes. I have 2 Daitai of Zeros, 1 Sentai of Helen, 2 Daitai of Betty, 1 Daitai of Kates, and 1 Daitai of Vals. The AF and Port are not too damaged from the capture so things look pretty good. It will serve as a fine platform for the invasion of New Zealand.
Suva/Nandi Primary focus in this two week period is the capture of these bases. Recon shows that Nandi is NOT defended so I chose to land there and then overland march to Suva. I capture Nandi on March 12th and immediately move a Daitai of Zeros there to protect my convoys while offloading. The Americans have some B-17s here and they have ineffectually tried to attack my forces. I bombard Suva twice on the 7th and 14th doing minor damage.
KB-2 My opponents try to either evacuate or reinforce these bases only to meet up with KB-2 (Shokaku, Zuikaku, Shoho--with Zuiho on the way from Singapore). Several AK and TK are attacked and sunk South of the island.
Allied SS The Americans must be screaming to high-heaven during this time. In the space of two weeks, US SS get 7 separate chances to attack major units of the Imperial Navy. Four of these chances are against Japanese CV! All of them result in TT ‘fail to detonate.’ I’ll personally thank the American developer of the magnetic TT…for their bravery, a number of American SS get damaged by ASW attack.
Norfolk Isle I land and capture this island on March 6th. Move a BF there and begin building an AF. Seaplane Recon moves there on the 15th to help keep an eye out for things…
Should note that on March 5th, the first reinforcements to the Pacific from China begin loading. The 5th and 6th Independent Brigades (at full strength) begin embarkation at Tientsin, China. I changed their HQ two weeks ago and let them sit and rebuild themselves at Tientsin for nearly a month. They will help with the capture of New Zealand and then serve as garrison units there.
Will add the DEI action for this 14 day period tomorrow.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
RE: March 1-15, 1942 Pacific Action
Japanese Industrial Report
March 1942
Score
Japan 13,309
Allies 4,615
Ships Sunk
Japan 137--Score 1381VP--Warships Lost--Hiryu, Fuso, 3CL, 14DD, 4SS
Allies 170--Score 2101VP--Warships Lost--Lexington, Enterprise, Oklahoma, 1CA, 7CL, 22DD, 2SS
Industry
Supply 1,865,751
Fuel 4,033,184
Manpower 814 (71,035)
Resources 18,044 (1,712,903)
Oil 2253 (1,583,560)
Shipyards
Naval 1274 (24)
Merchant 1016 (4)
Repair 970
War Industry
Armaments 675 (31,277)
Vehicles 178 (7564)
Aircraft Engines 1645
Aircraft Assembly 691+252-Rd
Aircraft Production
Fighters
A6M2 183
Oscar 116
Tony R-92
Tojo R-24
Jack R-28
Bombers
Betty 67
Helen 79
Sally 20
Vals 41
Kates 44
Recon/Floatplanes
Emily 16
Alf 23
Glen 8
Dinah 31
Rufe 14
Jake 11
Transports
Topsy 10
Mavis 8
Tina 26
Sally (MC-21) 5
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
March 1-15, 1942 DEI Report
I should note that our game picks up a new player at the end of February. Nate joins the Japanese side and takes over all land and air operations in the Philippines-China-Burma. He is new to the game so I thought these are safe places to learn about the useless land warfare side of this game. He will pick-up more aerial and some naval assets as his confidence grows.
Philippines
Operational tempo really picks up here. My reinforcements from the Singapore Operations finally reach my troops at Manila and a REAL battle for the Philippines starts at the end of February. I also have troops at San marcelino holding down Phil Div that could be elsewhere.
Air Operations
We continuously hit Manila, Clark, Cebu, and Iloilo almost every turn to keep the AF knocked out and unable to function. It looks as if the Allies finally give up basing planes there.
Manila This city FALLS on March 1st! The AF and Port is remarkably undamaged. Both sit at around 20 damage and shall be repaired quickly. Hit a small supply and fuel bonanza--35,000 Sup and 19,000 Fuel. Immediately send my troops towards Clark.
Clark My units arrive and make Deliberate Attacks on the 4th, 8th, and 12th. The Forts drop from 6 to 4 and I get some good bombardment days as well. Clark should fall by the end of March.
San Marcelino We continue pounding away here. My troops get 1-1 every attack and keep the Forts at 0 but I cannot drive enemy from the hex. Will reinforce this attack some so I can fix that.
Eastern DEI
Clean-up operations are wrapping up. On the 1st, the last group of soldiers on Sulawasi surrender and that island is now clear. The brigade that was doing that is now sent to Sampit to finish Borneo.
Kai Island I have noticed planes flying out of this base and decide to attack it with 2 SNLF units. Prior to that, my small STF (1CA+5DD) swing by on the 3rd and sink an AK. My troops land there on the 11th and I take it on the 13th. The Aussies respond with air raids from Darwin and several AP/AK are hit.
Engineering: Lautem AF3
Western DEI
Mopping up Sumatra and attacking Andaman Isle fill out operations here.
Bases Captured: Andaman Isle on March 5th.
My opponents SS operations continue to be a REAL pain during this time. More ships hit and a couple are sunk.
I decide to check to see if the Allies are running India to Australia convoys still and send a CVE+CS with a small escort to the edge of the board to see and SURE ENOUGH they spot shipping. From the 13th-15th, small strikes are carried out and several Allied ships and small escorts are sunk. The action begins on the hexline due west of Batavia and slowly moves south towards Australia.
Looking for more, I send KB-3 (Ryujo, Junyo, Hosho) towards this area as well.
Java
There is heavy aerial combat throughout the two weeks. Most of my aerial losses for the whole Pacific occur here. I raise the altitude to 15,000 Ft and go to strictly AF attack.
22,64 I finally clear this hex east of Soerabaja on the 2nd and my heavy Inf Divisions move towards the city.
Soerabaja Launch my first real attack on the 6th and attack again on the 10th and 14th. Each time I get a 0-1 and don’t accomplish anything. Forts are at 5 and holding. Decide to hold off on any more attacks until the last four units from the west arrive. These 2 Inf Div and 2 Eng Regiments should get things moving quickly!
Burma
The aerial war mellows some these 14 days. The Allies shift to attacking land units that are working to surround Mandalay and I repair and reinforce Rangoon for a major air offensive. While working on this, the Royal Navy puts in an appearance!
NAVAL ACTION:
March 3rd 27,32--Spot approaching TF and 23 Betty take off from Rangoon and put a single TT into BB Resolution and CA Cornwall. That same hex sees a raiding TF of mine run into the ENTIRE British Fleet! BC Kongo and 8DD stumble onto a TF comprised of 2BB, 4CA, 5CL, and 4DD…YIKES! The Japanese Admiral does the only smart thing and RUNS! I take a little damage but get away.
March 4th Rangoon--While returning from the Naval Battle, BC Kongo takes a TT from ) O19 and, in the same round O19 puts 2TT into a DD. WOW--Nice shooting… The SS Takes a few DC (4) and the two ships safely make port.
China
Hengchow Hit this base every day by about 50 Bombers. My troops begin arriving on the 8th having gotten their PP up to 50. Launch an attack on the 9th and 14th. Get 1-1 and then 2-1 and the Forts drop from 4 to 1. Should capture this city within a few days.
Yenen Things start to go badly for the Japanese here. The Forts are going UP and not down. Several attacks are beaten off and the decision my General Nate is to withdraw from here and finish clearing the rail-line to the south before trying to take this city again.
Homan Chinese counterattack! The Allies try to move back into Homan and are bloodily repulsed. From March 5-9th, Chinese units try to move into the city. They are beaten back and are forcibly ejected from the hex on the 9th.
Totals for the Two-Weeks:
Ships Sunk
Japanese 7 Total--1DD, 1SS, 1MSW, 1TK, 2AK, and 1AP
Allied 14 Total--1MSW, 9AK, 1TK, 2PG, and 1SS
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 7 F, 39 B, 6R, and 3 Tr Total: 55 aircraft
Allied 27 F, 3 B, 6 Lib/B-17, 1 Tr and 5 Recon Total: 42 aircraft
Philippines
Operational tempo really picks up here. My reinforcements from the Singapore Operations finally reach my troops at Manila and a REAL battle for the Philippines starts at the end of February. I also have troops at San marcelino holding down Phil Div that could be elsewhere.
Air Operations
We continuously hit Manila, Clark, Cebu, and Iloilo almost every turn to keep the AF knocked out and unable to function. It looks as if the Allies finally give up basing planes there.
Manila This city FALLS on March 1st! The AF and Port is remarkably undamaged. Both sit at around 20 damage and shall be repaired quickly. Hit a small supply and fuel bonanza--35,000 Sup and 19,000 Fuel. Immediately send my troops towards Clark.
Clark My units arrive and make Deliberate Attacks on the 4th, 8th, and 12th. The Forts drop from 6 to 4 and I get some good bombardment days as well. Clark should fall by the end of March.
San Marcelino We continue pounding away here. My troops get 1-1 every attack and keep the Forts at 0 but I cannot drive enemy from the hex. Will reinforce this attack some so I can fix that.
Eastern DEI
Clean-up operations are wrapping up. On the 1st, the last group of soldiers on Sulawasi surrender and that island is now clear. The brigade that was doing that is now sent to Sampit to finish Borneo.
Kai Island I have noticed planes flying out of this base and decide to attack it with 2 SNLF units. Prior to that, my small STF (1CA+5DD) swing by on the 3rd and sink an AK. My troops land there on the 11th and I take it on the 13th. The Aussies respond with air raids from Darwin and several AP/AK are hit.
Engineering: Lautem AF3
Western DEI
Mopping up Sumatra and attacking Andaman Isle fill out operations here.
Bases Captured: Andaman Isle on March 5th.
My opponents SS operations continue to be a REAL pain during this time. More ships hit and a couple are sunk.
I decide to check to see if the Allies are running India to Australia convoys still and send a CVE+CS with a small escort to the edge of the board to see and SURE ENOUGH they spot shipping. From the 13th-15th, small strikes are carried out and several Allied ships and small escorts are sunk. The action begins on the hexline due west of Batavia and slowly moves south towards Australia.
Looking for more, I send KB-3 (Ryujo, Junyo, Hosho) towards this area as well.
Java
There is heavy aerial combat throughout the two weeks. Most of my aerial losses for the whole Pacific occur here. I raise the altitude to 15,000 Ft and go to strictly AF attack.
22,64 I finally clear this hex east of Soerabaja on the 2nd and my heavy Inf Divisions move towards the city.
Soerabaja Launch my first real attack on the 6th and attack again on the 10th and 14th. Each time I get a 0-1 and don’t accomplish anything. Forts are at 5 and holding. Decide to hold off on any more attacks until the last four units from the west arrive. These 2 Inf Div and 2 Eng Regiments should get things moving quickly!
Burma
The aerial war mellows some these 14 days. The Allies shift to attacking land units that are working to surround Mandalay and I repair and reinforce Rangoon for a major air offensive. While working on this, the Royal Navy puts in an appearance!
NAVAL ACTION:
March 3rd 27,32--Spot approaching TF and 23 Betty take off from Rangoon and put a single TT into BB Resolution and CA Cornwall. That same hex sees a raiding TF of mine run into the ENTIRE British Fleet! BC Kongo and 8DD stumble onto a TF comprised of 2BB, 4CA, 5CL, and 4DD…YIKES! The Japanese Admiral does the only smart thing and RUNS! I take a little damage but get away.
March 4th Rangoon--While returning from the Naval Battle, BC Kongo takes a TT from ) O19 and, in the same round O19 puts 2TT into a DD. WOW--Nice shooting… The SS Takes a few DC (4) and the two ships safely make port.
China
Hengchow Hit this base every day by about 50 Bombers. My troops begin arriving on the 8th having gotten their PP up to 50. Launch an attack on the 9th and 14th. Get 1-1 and then 2-1 and the Forts drop from 4 to 1. Should capture this city within a few days.
Yenen Things start to go badly for the Japanese here. The Forts are going UP and not down. Several attacks are beaten off and the decision my General Nate is to withdraw from here and finish clearing the rail-line to the south before trying to take this city again.
Homan Chinese counterattack! The Allies try to move back into Homan and are bloodily repulsed. From March 5-9th, Chinese units try to move into the city. They are beaten back and are forcibly ejected from the hex on the 9th.
Totals for the Two-Weeks:
Ships Sunk
Japanese 7 Total--1DD, 1SS, 1MSW, 1TK, 2AK, and 1AP
Allied 14 Total--1MSW, 9AK, 1TK, 2PG, and 1SS
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 7 F, 39 B, 6R, and 3 Tr Total: 55 aircraft
Allied 27 F, 3 B, 6 Lib/B-17, 1 Tr and 5 Recon Total: 42 aircraft
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Operation Typhoon--Operational Orders
Operational Planning
Operation Typhoon
Date: 19 March 1942
From: C-in-C Combined Fleet
To: C-in-C 3rd Fleet, C-in-C 16th Army, C-in-C 11th Air Fleet
You are hereby ordered to move from theoretical planning for the invasion of New Zealand (Operation Typhoon) to concrete operational planning. The following units will be at your disposal:
Naval Support:
KB-1 (Akagi, Kaga, Soryu) and escorts
KB-2 (Shokaku, Zuikaku, Shoho, Zuiho) and escorts
KB-3 (Junyo, Hiyo, Ryujo, Hosho) and escorts
KB-4 (2 CVE and 2CS) and escorts
Close Cover Force (to be built around 3BB and escorts)
Air Support:
3 Daitai of Zero
2 Daitai of Betty
2 Sentai of Helen
1 Daitai of Val
1 Daitai of Kate
The Helen, Val, and Kate units shall be embarked onto transports to be landed at the target hex (Dunedin, NZ)
Zero and Betty Daitai are to fly from Norfolk Island to captured AF.
Ground Support:
4th and 56th Infantry Divisions
South Seas Detachment, 9th Ind Brigade, 5th Independent Brigade, and 6th Ind. Brigade
3 Large Base Force
3 IJN/A Base Force
2 Engineering Regiments
4 Artillery Regiments
Additional forces may be assigned upon completion of Philippine Operation.
Operational Goals:
1. Capture South New Zealand Island
2. Capture North New Zealand Island
3. Destroy any and all shipping within ports and adjacent area
The initial Operation shall commence in the following Phases:
Phase One--D-24--21 SS (7 being Glen-equipped) shall depart Noumea on or about April 22nd. These SS shall do an initial Recon of area and direct KB TF towards any shipping that is spotted.
Phase Two--D-18--KB-4, Close Cover TF, a fueling TF, and 3 Invasion TF shall depart Noumea and take SE course to bring them to the target from due east.
Phase Three--D-10--KB-1&3 with a refueling TF shall depart Noumea and position itself between Australia and New Zealand. This should be done as if to appear to be a RAIDING Mission to decieve the Allies of our true intention.
Phase Four--D-6--KB-2 shall depart Noumea to position itself due east of Wellington and Christchurch prior to landing.
Phase Five--D-Day--Landings shall commence with the 2 Inf Div,1 Brig. Engineers, and Artillery. Remainging TF will wait to offload pending situation.
After capturing initial objective, 16th Army shall then advance northwards to capture Christchurch by land.
D-Day is hereby set to be 15 May 1942. This Order provides you two months to plan the above operation.
It is expected that SE Pacific Operations (the capture of Suva and Pago-Pago) to be complete by April 10th so that your forces will have adequate time to rest, re-equip, and prepare for the operation.
Be aware that as you plan this Operation, C-in-C 14th Army has begun planning of Operation Southern Wind whose goal shall be the capture of NW Australia.
The eyes of the Empire are upon you!
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
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USSAmerica
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RE: Operation Typhoon--Operational Orders
John, it's been a while since we have heard from you. From reading your opponent's AAR, I can see that the war continues, and apparently quite well for you. I hope things on the home front are going as well.
Now, make some time to give us more of your very well written and organized updates! [;)]
Now, make some time to give us more of your very well written and organized updates! [;)]
Mike
"Good times will set you free" - Jimmy Buffett
"They need more rum punch" - Me
Artwork by The Amazing Dixie
"Good times will set you free" - Jimmy Buffett
"They need more rum punch" - Me
Artwork by The Amazing Dixie
RE: Operation Typhoon--Operational Orders
Hey Sir!
The battle does go pretty well. I'm a month behind in the AAR and am TRYING to find the time to update it. I am hoping this weekend; however, as a member of the snowbound in Colorado crowd--I cannot describe the level of my excitement in knowing that we have our 4th (in 4 weeks) major snow storm approaching for Thurs-Fri. We have gotten more snow in four weeks then we did all of last year...
I HOPE to update. Since you are reading my opponent's AAR, let me update in borad strokes:
1. Right now, we are locked in a struggle for Mandalay and have been trading heavy aerial punches. I have the city nearly encircled and will start an attack ASAP since it appears they are withdrawing.
2. I have taken ALL of the SE Pac Islands from Canton--to--Noumea. Final resistance is at Pago-Pago and the invasion force is on its way. It is covered by 7 CVs/CVLs.
3. It appears they are going to try to retake Midway. They can have it. THIS way I know where their CVs are.
4. The British Navy has been a little frisky so I am preparing a trap to take them out. My opponents will have to cooperate for this happen...
Planning
1. The invasion of New Zealand is in advanced planning stages I my troops from Java have nearly made it to Noumea. Once they are there and my CVs get a little R&R at Noumea--I will move southwards.
2. As soon as Bataan falls (should be soon Forts down from 6 to 3), those troops will begin planning for the invasion of Perth and the 'liberation' of NW Australia.
Is that OK for an update?
John
The battle does go pretty well. I'm a month behind in the AAR and am TRYING to find the time to update it. I am hoping this weekend; however, as a member of the snowbound in Colorado crowd--I cannot describe the level of my excitement in knowing that we have our 4th (in 4 weeks) major snow storm approaching for Thurs-Fri. We have gotten more snow in four weeks then we did all of last year...
I HOPE to update. Since you are reading my opponent's AAR, let me update in borad strokes:
1. Right now, we are locked in a struggle for Mandalay and have been trading heavy aerial punches. I have the city nearly encircled and will start an attack ASAP since it appears they are withdrawing.
2. I have taken ALL of the SE Pac Islands from Canton--to--Noumea. Final resistance is at Pago-Pago and the invasion force is on its way. It is covered by 7 CVs/CVLs.
3. It appears they are going to try to retake Midway. They can have it. THIS way I know where their CVs are.
4. The British Navy has been a little frisky so I am preparing a trap to take them out. My opponents will have to cooperate for this happen...
Planning
1. The invasion of New Zealand is in advanced planning stages I my troops from Java have nearly made it to Noumea. Once they are there and my CVs get a little R&R at Noumea--I will move southwards.
2. As soon as Bataan falls (should be soon Forts down from 6 to 3), those troops will begin planning for the invasion of Perth and the 'liberation' of NW Australia.
Is that OK for an update?
John
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
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USSAmerica
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RE: Operation Typhoon--Operational Orders
ORIGINAL: John 3rd
Is that OK for an update?
John
Ha, ha! That will have to hold me over until maybe Spring at the rate you guys are getting buried. [;)]
I don't know how many other AAR's you regularly read, but that brief update is as good as most regular ones.
Stay warm out there, John!
Mike
Mike
"Good times will set you free" - Jimmy Buffett
"They need more rum punch" - Me
Artwork by The Amazing Dixie
"Good times will set you free" - Jimmy Buffett
"They need more rum punch" - Me
Artwork by The Amazing Dixie
Midway Invasion DASHED!
Since I have not been able to get updated, I wanted to share a little info about our campaign.
While my Pago-Pago Invasion Force was approaching its target, my troops at Midway found THE ENTIRE US FLEET approaching their Atoll! [X(] All 3 US CV, BBs, and APs were spotted. After I realized that there was NO CHANCE to fight, I withdrew my planes and waited.
The enemy bombarded by air and sea the base and then the 161st RCT TRIED landing! My troops TOTALLY destroyed the RCT! I have 2 small Nvl Garrision units there, a CD unit, and a BF. They held against the shock attack and then the RCT ceased to exist (lost due to attrition)! Scratch one RCT---BANZAI! My opponents withdrew and Midway is still mine.
I just landed at Pago-Pago! I expected to see an Infantry Division, CD unit, Art unit, and a BF. I took this intelligence Info and doubled it.
Thank Goodness I did! I found a MARINE Division, 2 Marine CD units, a Marine Para unit, and FIVE BF. Wow... [&:] My landing came in with 2 Ind Div, 2 Ind Brigades and support units. There are two more Brigades that will land in about three days. I am ashore and holding while waiting for the follow-on lift. If all goes well, I will have 30,000+ POWs in about 10-14 days!
The chance to destroy a Marine Division....YUMMY!
While my Pago-Pago Invasion Force was approaching its target, my troops at Midway found THE ENTIRE US FLEET approaching their Atoll! [X(] All 3 US CV, BBs, and APs were spotted. After I realized that there was NO CHANCE to fight, I withdrew my planes and waited.
The enemy bombarded by air and sea the base and then the 161st RCT TRIED landing! My troops TOTALLY destroyed the RCT! I have 2 small Nvl Garrision units there, a CD unit, and a BF. They held against the shock attack and then the RCT ceased to exist (lost due to attrition)! Scratch one RCT---BANZAI! My opponents withdrew and Midway is still mine.
I just landed at Pago-Pago! I expected to see an Infantry Division, CD unit, Art unit, and a BF. I took this intelligence Info and doubled it.
Thank Goodness I did! I found a MARINE Division, 2 Marine CD units, a Marine Para unit, and FIVE BF. Wow... [&:] My landing came in with 2 Ind Div, 2 Ind Brigades and support units. There are two more Brigades that will land in about three days. I am ashore and holding while waiting for the follow-on lift. If all goes well, I will have 30,000+ POWs in about 10-14 days!
The chance to destroy a Marine Division....YUMMY!
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Combat Report: March 16-31, 1942
I have only been able to post short notes over the last couple of weeks and intend to get caught-up on the AAR today and tomorrow. The campaign’s current turn is April 23, 1942.
Combat Report
March 15-31, 1942
North Pacific
I continue building up Attu and Kiska. There are no intentions of sending a great amount of material to these northern bases. I want enough there to hold the islands and protect my northern flank. Kiska went to a Lvl Port and AF during these two weeks.
There is a small raiding TF based here of 3CL and 5DD. They attacked Dutch Harbor and sank 2 PT-Boats on the 23rd. My good SS Minelayers (I-121-124) are being used to constantly mine Dutch Harbor and Anchorage.
Central Pacific
Canton I have been waiting for fuel to arrive and it finally does. I have several Base Force units here working to rapidly expand the AF and Port facilities. There are a lot of Allied SS working here. Several are damaged but they also account for a few merchant ship losses.
Line Islands My SS are working this area and score a few hits on Merchants as well. I have two damaged while doing this.
SE Pacific
Here is the focal point of the Pacific War from mid-March to the end of April 1942! The majority of the active Combined Fleet is here.
Noumea My build-up at Noumea continues. All three New Caledonia bases are being expanding and aircraft, troops, and HQ units are arriving to augment the eastern thrust against Suva/Nandi and Pago-Pago as well as prep for the invasion of New Zealand. Operation Southern Fury has been moved back 6 weeks to occur in early June.
Suva/Nandi Having already grabbed Nandi earlier, I use it a build-up location and then move overland to Suva. My offensive against Suva opens on March 22nd with 2 Inf Divisions, 5 smaller Inf units, 2 Artillery Regiments, and 1 Aviation BF. They face a New Zealand Brigade, US Artillery Regiment and 2 Base Forces. Between Infantry attacks, I bombard Suva with BB/BC TF several times inflicting damage to the facilities, casualties, destroy aircraft, and damage several crippled ships that are in the harbor.
Close air support is provided by Nandi starting on the 30th when its AF goes to size 2. I station a Daitai of Zeros, a Daitai of Vals, and a Daitai of Kates there for attacking the ground forces at Suva.
Pago-Pago This base looks like there will be a MAJOR fight over! I must expand Tongatapu for support purposes and capture Upolu for the same reason.
Tongatapu Two Base Forces are furiously expanding the AF!
KB-2 My opponents try to either evacuate or reinforce these bases only to meet up with KB-2 (Shokaku, Zuikaku, Shoho--with Zuiho arriving from DEI). Several AK and TK are attacked and sunk South of the island.
KB-1 Towards the end of the month, KB-1 (Akagi, Kaga, Soryu) arrives and bolsters the naval power near Pago-Pago. With seven CVs surrounding P-P, it will be VERY difficult for my opponents to send in ANYTHING!
Japanese SS I have 7 I-Boats with Glens set-up in an arc running due north of Pago-Pago to SE of the island. They are set at about 12 hexes from the island. ANYTHING approaching should be spotted and my CVs can move in.
Allied SS SS are filling the waters between Noumea and Nandi as well as Nandi to Tongatapu. Several ships are hit and I damage a few of his SS.
Norfolk Isle No action
Philippines
Movement here remains at a slower pace then other campaigns. I dedicated very few units initially to the Philippines and only now am really building up some strength after the fall of Singapore and the reduction of Java.
Clark Captured on March 15th.
San Marcelino Captured on March 25th.
On the 25th, a STF sinks 3 AK at Bataan. I presume that my opponents have been running 1 ship TF into the area without my Recon picking it up.
Bataan Begin the reduction of Bataan on the 30th. Daily bombing raids occur as well as bombardments from the ground.
Eastern DEI
Clean-up operations are wrapped up with the capture of Sampit on 17th.
Kai Island MY opponents send regular raids to attack this island after I captured it earlier in the month.
Amboina Begin slowly moving units here in a build-up that will, ultimately, end up in the invasion of NW Australia. This operation is tentatively scheduled for sometime in July. It will use ALL the troops currently in the Philippines.
KB-3 My weaker 3rd CV TF (Junyo, Ryuho, Taiyo, Hosho) operates between Amboina, Java, and the sea lanes to the south for a period of nearly 10 days. They bag several smaller ships for no damage. CV Hiyo will soon bolster this TF as well as another CVE. At that point, KB-3 will have some teeth and may go looking for the British Fleet prior to redeployment in support of Operation Southern Fury.
Western DEI
My opponents SS operations continue to be a REAL pain during this time. More ships hit and a couple are sunk. MY ASW really gets going by damaging 5 SS during the same time. Don’t get any sinkings but due knock some out for a while.
Java
Soerabaja Throughout the two week period, I launch attacks that drive down the Forts surrounding this last bastion of Imperialism. FINALLY on March 30th it FALLS! Into eager Japanese arms come 57,441 POWs! YUMMY…
While nearly every other resource center in the DEI has been captured with little damage, that is NOT the case with Soerabaja. Only 247 of 600 resources are OK as well as 18 of 100 Oil. Going to take a while to get that repaired.
I have 4 Inf Divisions here as well as some Ind Brigades as well as Engineers and support units. Immediately begin prepping them for new objectives and move shipping from Batavia to Soerabaja. Nearly 150 AP/AK head for this port. I have decided that 3 of the ID will head for the SE Pacific. They will then be used for Southern Fury or the reduction of Pago-Pago. The remaining ID, with an Eng Reg and 2 Art Reg, will head for Burma to strengthen my assault there.
Burma
There is REAL give-and-take in this theatre. I continue to think about pulling my aerial assets out and let the situation stagnate but I want Mandalay, Akyab, Lashio, and Myitkyina. Until that occurs, then we trade blows.
The aerial battles revolves around Mandalay. We are working to surround it and capture the 100,000+ troops there. HUGE dogfights involving dozens of Zeros fighting with Hurricanes and the AVG occur with high losses. Ex. On the 25th we send in 57Z and 86B--up rises 66 Allied Fighters--after the Furball is done, we lose 11 Zero and 5 Bombers while the enemy losses--GET THIS--45 Fighters!
The Imperial Navy strikes Akyab several times bombarding that base.
China
Hengchow Base falls on March 20th.
Yenen We withdraw from this city since we do not have the combat power to take it. Everyday still sees a heavy air strike come in to try to keep the Forts from going up TOO rapidly. Troops from here shuffle southwards to help the drive to clean out the railway.
Wuchow Begin aerial bombardment of city as troops prep to move there.
Totals for the Two-Weeks:
Ships Sunk
Japanese 17 Total--1APD, 1SS, 2MSW, 2AK, and 11AP
Allied 15 Total--5PT, 4AK, 2TK, 2PG, 1AP and 1AO
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 28 F, 35 B, and 2R---Total: 65 aircraft
The fighters are lost over Burma and the bombers at Burma and Soerabaja.
Allied 74 F, 6 B, 6 Lib/B-17, and 4 Recon--Total: 90 aircraft
I would prefer closer to 2 for 1 but this is good and his fighter pools must REALLY be low.
Combat Report
March 15-31, 1942
North Pacific
I continue building up Attu and Kiska. There are no intentions of sending a great amount of material to these northern bases. I want enough there to hold the islands and protect my northern flank. Kiska went to a Lvl Port and AF during these two weeks.
There is a small raiding TF based here of 3CL and 5DD. They attacked Dutch Harbor and sank 2 PT-Boats on the 23rd. My good SS Minelayers (I-121-124) are being used to constantly mine Dutch Harbor and Anchorage.
Central Pacific
Canton I have been waiting for fuel to arrive and it finally does. I have several Base Force units here working to rapidly expand the AF and Port facilities. There are a lot of Allied SS working here. Several are damaged but they also account for a few merchant ship losses.
Line Islands My SS are working this area and score a few hits on Merchants as well. I have two damaged while doing this.
SE Pacific
Here is the focal point of the Pacific War from mid-March to the end of April 1942! The majority of the active Combined Fleet is here.
Noumea My build-up at Noumea continues. All three New Caledonia bases are being expanding and aircraft, troops, and HQ units are arriving to augment the eastern thrust against Suva/Nandi and Pago-Pago as well as prep for the invasion of New Zealand. Operation Southern Fury has been moved back 6 weeks to occur in early June.
Suva/Nandi Having already grabbed Nandi earlier, I use it a build-up location and then move overland to Suva. My offensive against Suva opens on March 22nd with 2 Inf Divisions, 5 smaller Inf units, 2 Artillery Regiments, and 1 Aviation BF. They face a New Zealand Brigade, US Artillery Regiment and 2 Base Forces. Between Infantry attacks, I bombard Suva with BB/BC TF several times inflicting damage to the facilities, casualties, destroy aircraft, and damage several crippled ships that are in the harbor.
Close air support is provided by Nandi starting on the 30th when its AF goes to size 2. I station a Daitai of Zeros, a Daitai of Vals, and a Daitai of Kates there for attacking the ground forces at Suva.
Pago-Pago This base looks like there will be a MAJOR fight over! I must expand Tongatapu for support purposes and capture Upolu for the same reason.
Tongatapu Two Base Forces are furiously expanding the AF!
KB-2 My opponents try to either evacuate or reinforce these bases only to meet up with KB-2 (Shokaku, Zuikaku, Shoho--with Zuiho arriving from DEI). Several AK and TK are attacked and sunk South of the island.
KB-1 Towards the end of the month, KB-1 (Akagi, Kaga, Soryu) arrives and bolsters the naval power near Pago-Pago. With seven CVs surrounding P-P, it will be VERY difficult for my opponents to send in ANYTHING!
Japanese SS I have 7 I-Boats with Glens set-up in an arc running due north of Pago-Pago to SE of the island. They are set at about 12 hexes from the island. ANYTHING approaching should be spotted and my CVs can move in.
Allied SS SS are filling the waters between Noumea and Nandi as well as Nandi to Tongatapu. Several ships are hit and I damage a few of his SS.
Norfolk Isle No action
Philippines
Movement here remains at a slower pace then other campaigns. I dedicated very few units initially to the Philippines and only now am really building up some strength after the fall of Singapore and the reduction of Java.
Clark Captured on March 15th.
San Marcelino Captured on March 25th.
On the 25th, a STF sinks 3 AK at Bataan. I presume that my opponents have been running 1 ship TF into the area without my Recon picking it up.
Bataan Begin the reduction of Bataan on the 30th. Daily bombing raids occur as well as bombardments from the ground.
Eastern DEI
Clean-up operations are wrapped up with the capture of Sampit on 17th.
Kai Island MY opponents send regular raids to attack this island after I captured it earlier in the month.
Amboina Begin slowly moving units here in a build-up that will, ultimately, end up in the invasion of NW Australia. This operation is tentatively scheduled for sometime in July. It will use ALL the troops currently in the Philippines.
KB-3 My weaker 3rd CV TF (Junyo, Ryuho, Taiyo, Hosho) operates between Amboina, Java, and the sea lanes to the south for a period of nearly 10 days. They bag several smaller ships for no damage. CV Hiyo will soon bolster this TF as well as another CVE. At that point, KB-3 will have some teeth and may go looking for the British Fleet prior to redeployment in support of Operation Southern Fury.
Western DEI
My opponents SS operations continue to be a REAL pain during this time. More ships hit and a couple are sunk. MY ASW really gets going by damaging 5 SS during the same time. Don’t get any sinkings but due knock some out for a while.
Java
Soerabaja Throughout the two week period, I launch attacks that drive down the Forts surrounding this last bastion of Imperialism. FINALLY on March 30th it FALLS! Into eager Japanese arms come 57,441 POWs! YUMMY…
While nearly every other resource center in the DEI has been captured with little damage, that is NOT the case with Soerabaja. Only 247 of 600 resources are OK as well as 18 of 100 Oil. Going to take a while to get that repaired.
I have 4 Inf Divisions here as well as some Ind Brigades as well as Engineers and support units. Immediately begin prepping them for new objectives and move shipping from Batavia to Soerabaja. Nearly 150 AP/AK head for this port. I have decided that 3 of the ID will head for the SE Pacific. They will then be used for Southern Fury or the reduction of Pago-Pago. The remaining ID, with an Eng Reg and 2 Art Reg, will head for Burma to strengthen my assault there.
Burma
There is REAL give-and-take in this theatre. I continue to think about pulling my aerial assets out and let the situation stagnate but I want Mandalay, Akyab, Lashio, and Myitkyina. Until that occurs, then we trade blows.
The aerial battles revolves around Mandalay. We are working to surround it and capture the 100,000+ troops there. HUGE dogfights involving dozens of Zeros fighting with Hurricanes and the AVG occur with high losses. Ex. On the 25th we send in 57Z and 86B--up rises 66 Allied Fighters--after the Furball is done, we lose 11 Zero and 5 Bombers while the enemy losses--GET THIS--45 Fighters!
The Imperial Navy strikes Akyab several times bombarding that base.
China
Hengchow Base falls on March 20th.
Yenen We withdraw from this city since we do not have the combat power to take it. Everyday still sees a heavy air strike come in to try to keep the Forts from going up TOO rapidly. Troops from here shuffle southwards to help the drive to clean out the railway.
Wuchow Begin aerial bombardment of city as troops prep to move there.
Totals for the Two-Weeks:
Ships Sunk
Japanese 17 Total--1APD, 1SS, 2MSW, 2AK, and 11AP
Allied 15 Total--5PT, 4AK, 2TK, 2PG, 1AP and 1AO
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 28 F, 35 B, and 2R---Total: 65 aircraft
The fighters are lost over Burma and the bombers at Burma and Soerabaja.
Allied 74 F, 6 B, 6 Lib/B-17, and 4 Recon--Total: 90 aircraft
I would prefer closer to 2 for 1 but this is good and his fighter pools must REALLY be low.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Combat Report: April 1-15, 1942
Combat Report
April 1-15, 1942
North Pacific
No action at all.
Central Pacific
Canton My blissful peace here is RUDELY interrupted by the arrival of the American Fleet! On April 2nd and 3rd, Canton is pounded. I manage to shot down some Wildcats and Dauntless but MISS the CV Hornet with a 18Z and 13 Betty. I had 8 planes drop bombs (Canton AF is ALMOST Size-4) without a hit--DAMN! On the first day, I number of my planes are caught on the ground and that tilts the battle immediately towards the Allies. A small CA TF bombards the island on the night of the 3rd. US Fleet departs smugly NE on the 4th.
It is lucky for me that I had no combatant shipping present when the US Fleet arrived. I lose a couple of AK but nothing else.
My CVs were busy sinking a convoy to the south of Suva at the time…
Midway is now picking up the occasional B-17 strike from Johnston Isle.
SS trade attacks throughout the area over these two weeks.
SE Pacific
The reduction of Suva and my planned invasion of Pago-Pago dominate activities in this arena.
Noumea My build-up at Noumea continues.
Suva/Nandi On April 3rd Suva falls! I capturing the base, several Allied planes are destroyed, 2AK/1AP scuttled and 4,000 POWs become mine. Immediately move supplies and aircraft there. These land units started prepping for a Pago-Pago attack about 10 days ago. They are tired and will rest for a little while before heading out for Pago-Pago.
Upolu The base there is slowly expanding the AF. Want to get it operational by the time of my invasion.
Pago-Pago I bombard P-P (8th/11th/12th/13th) several times, destroy a number of aircraft, and cause a goodly number of casualties.
Tongatapu Two Base Forces are furiously expanding the AF! It moves to Lvl 3 on the 12th. Move planes there to begin serious attacks upon P-P.
KB-2 (Shokaku, Zuikaku, Shoho, Zuiho). Several AK and TK are attacked and sunk South of the island as I do some raiding while Canton is hit by the US Carriers.
KB-1 (Akagi, Kaga, Soryu) Stay close to Suva.
With the Canton Raid, I order my CTF to rendezvous at Suva, get some rest, and prepare for the Pago-Pago Operation.
Japanese SS I have 7 I-Boats with Glens set-up in an arc running due north of Pago-Pago to SE of the island.
Allied SS SS are filling the waters between Noumea and Nandi as well as Nandi to Tongatapu. Several ships are hit and I damage a few of his SS.
Pago-Pago Invasion Force
I begin loading my assault force on the 9th.
I am not fooling around--my intelligence reports 6 units and 30,000 troops there. My preliminary guess is an Infantry Division, a CD unit, an Art Reg, and several BF. I will have to fight my way ashore so I load ALL I can for the first wave:
Initial Assault: 4th Inf Div, 56th Inf Div, South Seas Detachment, 9th Brigade, 4 smaller Inf units, and 4th Aviation Regiment. This is nearly 60,000 troops.
2nd Wave: Figuring that these will probably NOT be enough, I start loading at Noumea the two China Brigades, 2 Art Regiments, and an Engineering Regiment. This would be another 30,000+ troops. They will land about a week after the initial wave.
Distant Reinforcements: If the above cannot do it, I have 3 Inf Div moving eastward from Java. They are meant to attack New Zealand (Operation Southern Fury) but can be shifted as needed.
Philippines
The enemy is down to just Bataan. I spend this two week period reducing the Fortress while offering a surrender opportunity to General Macarthur. Unfortunately--he downs it down…There are daily air attacks as well as ground bombardments. I attack on the 3rd/8th/13th and begin reducing the Forts from 6 down to 4. Just a matter of time and patience…
NW Aussieland
To reflect new Campaign direction, the Eastern DEI Heading has been replaced with this.
Kai Island MY opponents send regular raids to attack this island after I captured it earlier in the month.
Amboina Begin slowly moving units here in a build-up that will, ultimately, end up in the invasion of NW Australia. This operation is tentatively scheduled for sometime in July. It will use ALL the troops currently in the Philippines.
Western DEI
My opponents SS operations continue to be a pain during this time. More ships hit and a couple are sunk. MY ASW efforts continue by damaging 2 SS during the same time. Don’t get any sinkings but do knock some out for a while.
KB-3a and 3b
With the British Fleet getting a little frisky (more later), I decide to reorganize this CTF into two units. They will operate together but in separate TF. Here is the new layout:
KB-3a---Junyo/Hiyo/Ryujo (62Z, 34DB, 53TB) and CS Nisshin (20FP), 3CA, and 8DD
KB-3b---Hosho/Taiyo/Unyo (5Z/18DB/41TB) and CS Mizuho (17FP), BB Nagato, and 6DD
This re-org occurs at Batavia on the 15th of April. They shall move NW and LOOK for the British Fleet! The Floatplanes will scout while all available strike aircraft wait to attack. They have operational freedom for 3 weeks but then they need to move to Noumea to support Operation Southern Fury.
Burma
The British Navy arrives in the area between Rangoon, Andaman, and Padang, Sumatra over the days of April 8-10th. It would appear to be an all-out effort by 2CV, several BB, and numerous smaller fleet units. I am caught totally flatfooted (just like at Canton!) with my Betty and Nell Daitai refitting (from Mandalay fighting) at Palembang.
Initially, I am angry at this but then sense a chance. I LET the Brits do what they want and begin a reorganization of the area CVs as well as land-based air. WHEN they come back, I will be ready…this might be called an old fashioned ambush!
I FINALLY take the upper hand with the air battle taking place over Mandalay. Facing initiall heavy resistance, large strikes are flown against Mandalay and Akyab in an effort to keep them down. I also bombard Akyab several times.
Pagan moves to AF 2 on the 10th and two Daitai of Fighters move there immediately.
Mandalay On the 12th, I effectively move to one step from encircling his army at Mandalay. I take the hex directly east of the city. My two Brigades then split--one heads for Lashio and the other moves to cut the rail line from Mandalay going north.
Rangoon Reinforcements arrive in the form of an Inf Div, Eng Reg, and 2 Art Reg on the 14th. They head for Mandalay. I taunt my opponents by telling them that 40,000 fresh boots are walking off ship right then!
China
Yenen Everyday still sees a heavy air strike come in to try to keep the Forts from going up TOO rapidly. Troops from here shuffle southwards to help the drive to clean out the railway.
Wuchow The vanguard of my army starts to arrive there on the 10th. On the 14th it appears that the Chinese are withdrawing!
The Chinese try to come down across the river to the west of Changsha and North of Wuchow and are bloodily repulsed TWICE!
Kweilin On a hunch that my opponents have stripped their defenses to hold Changsha-Wuchow, I move a small force of 2 Inf Div and 2 Brigades to this town and TAKE IT on the 6th.
With these developments, China seems to be opening up some. My Allie and I converse as to opportunities and we shall see how things pan out.
China-to-Pacific: the 10th Ind Brigade has its HQ changed to 4th Fleet and begins loading in Shanghai for operations in the SE Pacific. This is now the 4th Ind Brigade I have pulled from China to help with Pacific Operations.
[center]Totals for the Two-Weeks:[/center]
Ships Sunk
Japanese 16 Total--1PG, 1SS (I-123), 1MSW, 4AK, 6AP, 1MLE, and 2TK
Allied 18 Total--1MSW, 13AK, 1TK, 1AP and 2SS (S-43 and ???)
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 65 F, 50 B, 1TB, 3DB, and 1R---Total: 120 aircraft
Heavy Losses--the fighters are lost over Burma/Canton and the bombers at Burma/Canton/Pago-Pago.
Allied 79 F, 4 B, 12DB, and 9 Recon--Total: 104 aircraft
My opponents have lost 153 Fighters in 4 weeks their fighter pools must REALLY be low.
April 1-15, 1942
North Pacific
No action at all.
Central Pacific
Canton My blissful peace here is RUDELY interrupted by the arrival of the American Fleet! On April 2nd and 3rd, Canton is pounded. I manage to shot down some Wildcats and Dauntless but MISS the CV Hornet with a 18Z and 13 Betty. I had 8 planes drop bombs (Canton AF is ALMOST Size-4) without a hit--DAMN! On the first day, I number of my planes are caught on the ground and that tilts the battle immediately towards the Allies. A small CA TF bombards the island on the night of the 3rd. US Fleet departs smugly NE on the 4th.
It is lucky for me that I had no combatant shipping present when the US Fleet arrived. I lose a couple of AK but nothing else.
My CVs were busy sinking a convoy to the south of Suva at the time…
Midway is now picking up the occasional B-17 strike from Johnston Isle.
SS trade attacks throughout the area over these two weeks.
SE Pacific
The reduction of Suva and my planned invasion of Pago-Pago dominate activities in this arena.
Noumea My build-up at Noumea continues.
Suva/Nandi On April 3rd Suva falls! I capturing the base, several Allied planes are destroyed, 2AK/1AP scuttled and 4,000 POWs become mine. Immediately move supplies and aircraft there. These land units started prepping for a Pago-Pago attack about 10 days ago. They are tired and will rest for a little while before heading out for Pago-Pago.
Upolu The base there is slowly expanding the AF. Want to get it operational by the time of my invasion.
Pago-Pago I bombard P-P (8th/11th/12th/13th) several times, destroy a number of aircraft, and cause a goodly number of casualties.
Tongatapu Two Base Forces are furiously expanding the AF! It moves to Lvl 3 on the 12th. Move planes there to begin serious attacks upon P-P.
KB-2 (Shokaku, Zuikaku, Shoho, Zuiho). Several AK and TK are attacked and sunk South of the island as I do some raiding while Canton is hit by the US Carriers.
KB-1 (Akagi, Kaga, Soryu) Stay close to Suva.
With the Canton Raid, I order my CTF to rendezvous at Suva, get some rest, and prepare for the Pago-Pago Operation.
Japanese SS I have 7 I-Boats with Glens set-up in an arc running due north of Pago-Pago to SE of the island.
Allied SS SS are filling the waters between Noumea and Nandi as well as Nandi to Tongatapu. Several ships are hit and I damage a few of his SS.
Pago-Pago Invasion Force
I begin loading my assault force on the 9th.
I am not fooling around--my intelligence reports 6 units and 30,000 troops there. My preliminary guess is an Infantry Division, a CD unit, an Art Reg, and several BF. I will have to fight my way ashore so I load ALL I can for the first wave:
Initial Assault: 4th Inf Div, 56th Inf Div, South Seas Detachment, 9th Brigade, 4 smaller Inf units, and 4th Aviation Regiment. This is nearly 60,000 troops.
2nd Wave: Figuring that these will probably NOT be enough, I start loading at Noumea the two China Brigades, 2 Art Regiments, and an Engineering Regiment. This would be another 30,000+ troops. They will land about a week after the initial wave.
Distant Reinforcements: If the above cannot do it, I have 3 Inf Div moving eastward from Java. They are meant to attack New Zealand (Operation Southern Fury) but can be shifted as needed.
Philippines
The enemy is down to just Bataan. I spend this two week period reducing the Fortress while offering a surrender opportunity to General Macarthur. Unfortunately--he downs it down…There are daily air attacks as well as ground bombardments. I attack on the 3rd/8th/13th and begin reducing the Forts from 6 down to 4. Just a matter of time and patience…
NW Aussieland
To reflect new Campaign direction, the Eastern DEI Heading has been replaced with this.
Kai Island MY opponents send regular raids to attack this island after I captured it earlier in the month.
Amboina Begin slowly moving units here in a build-up that will, ultimately, end up in the invasion of NW Australia. This operation is tentatively scheduled for sometime in July. It will use ALL the troops currently in the Philippines.
Western DEI
My opponents SS operations continue to be a pain during this time. More ships hit and a couple are sunk. MY ASW efforts continue by damaging 2 SS during the same time. Don’t get any sinkings but do knock some out for a while.
KB-3a and 3b
With the British Fleet getting a little frisky (more later), I decide to reorganize this CTF into two units. They will operate together but in separate TF. Here is the new layout:
KB-3a---Junyo/Hiyo/Ryujo (62Z, 34DB, 53TB) and CS Nisshin (20FP), 3CA, and 8DD
KB-3b---Hosho/Taiyo/Unyo (5Z/18DB/41TB) and CS Mizuho (17FP), BB Nagato, and 6DD
This re-org occurs at Batavia on the 15th of April. They shall move NW and LOOK for the British Fleet! The Floatplanes will scout while all available strike aircraft wait to attack. They have operational freedom for 3 weeks but then they need to move to Noumea to support Operation Southern Fury.
Burma
The British Navy arrives in the area between Rangoon, Andaman, and Padang, Sumatra over the days of April 8-10th. It would appear to be an all-out effort by 2CV, several BB, and numerous smaller fleet units. I am caught totally flatfooted (just like at Canton!) with my Betty and Nell Daitai refitting (from Mandalay fighting) at Palembang.
Initially, I am angry at this but then sense a chance. I LET the Brits do what they want and begin a reorganization of the area CVs as well as land-based air. WHEN they come back, I will be ready…this might be called an old fashioned ambush!
I FINALLY take the upper hand with the air battle taking place over Mandalay. Facing initiall heavy resistance, large strikes are flown against Mandalay and Akyab in an effort to keep them down. I also bombard Akyab several times.
Pagan moves to AF 2 on the 10th and two Daitai of Fighters move there immediately.
Mandalay On the 12th, I effectively move to one step from encircling his army at Mandalay. I take the hex directly east of the city. My two Brigades then split--one heads for Lashio and the other moves to cut the rail line from Mandalay going north.
Rangoon Reinforcements arrive in the form of an Inf Div, Eng Reg, and 2 Art Reg on the 14th. They head for Mandalay. I taunt my opponents by telling them that 40,000 fresh boots are walking off ship right then!
China
Yenen Everyday still sees a heavy air strike come in to try to keep the Forts from going up TOO rapidly. Troops from here shuffle southwards to help the drive to clean out the railway.
Wuchow The vanguard of my army starts to arrive there on the 10th. On the 14th it appears that the Chinese are withdrawing!
The Chinese try to come down across the river to the west of Changsha and North of Wuchow and are bloodily repulsed TWICE!
Kweilin On a hunch that my opponents have stripped their defenses to hold Changsha-Wuchow, I move a small force of 2 Inf Div and 2 Brigades to this town and TAKE IT on the 6th.
With these developments, China seems to be opening up some. My Allie and I converse as to opportunities and we shall see how things pan out.
China-to-Pacific: the 10th Ind Brigade has its HQ changed to 4th Fleet and begins loading in Shanghai for operations in the SE Pacific. This is now the 4th Ind Brigade I have pulled from China to help with Pacific Operations.
[center]Totals for the Two-Weeks:[/center]
Ships Sunk
Japanese 16 Total--1PG, 1SS (I-123), 1MSW, 4AK, 6AP, 1MLE, and 2TK
Allied 18 Total--1MSW, 13AK, 1TK, 1AP and 2SS (S-43 and ???)
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 65 F, 50 B, 1TB, 3DB, and 1R---Total: 120 aircraft
Heavy Losses--the fighters are lost over Burma/Canton and the bombers at Burma/Canton/Pago-Pago.
Allied 79 F, 4 B, 12DB, and 9 Recon--Total: 104 aircraft
My opponents have lost 153 Fighters in 4 weeks their fighter pools must REALLY be low.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Combat Report--April 16-23, 1942
Combat Report
April 16-23, 1942
North Pacific
No action at all.
Central Pacific
Midway Whereas Canton Isle got the attention of the American Cvs in early-April, they take a serious swing at Midway on April 16-18! Initially, I thought it was a raid and then I spotted and invasion force coming in. It got a little interesting…
16th The battle opened with an aerial fight throughout the day. His 3 CV threw every SBD they had at Midway’s AF and I tried to strike back at his carriers. Over Midway, my Daitai of Zeros managed to bloody his SBDs pretty decently. At sea, I (probably) gave them a heart attack when I had a group of 8 Bettys break through CAP and make runs on Saratoga and Yorktown. American luck held and my Torps missed! Against this obvious firepower, I decide to pull my planes back to Wake.
17th Day opens with a bombardment by 2 old BB, 2CA, 1CL, and 5DD. Not doing too much damage, the Carriers launch large strikes of SBDs and TBDs. To add to the fun, 35 B-17 fly up from Canton Isle and hit the island--this is an all-out effort! Here comes the Transports…
18th The bombardment from ships and air continues as members of the 161st RCT land on the atoll. I have 2 small Naval Guard units, 2 Coast Defense units, and a large Aviation Regiment present. With all the pummeling these units have taken, I don’t expect too much; however, Colonel Hioka Yoshi puts together a SPLENDID defense that quickly isolates the assaulting waves and, LITERALLY, throws them back into the sea! BANZAI! The entire RCT is wiped out! BANZAI! Colonel Yoshi triumphantly radios back to Tokyo “send us more Americans!”
I got lucky here. Decide to reinforce the island with a large Naval Guard unit and will take off the 2 smaller ones that are present. Am sure that the Americans will be back…
SE Pacific
Operational Planning for Typhoon continues at Noumea while the long-planned invasion of Pago-Pago occurs!
Noumea My build-up at Noumea continues.
Suva/Nandi Move Aviation assets here and begin expanding facilities.
Upolu AF becomes operational on the 16th and I move a Sentai of Oscars there to protect shipping that move away from ago-Pago.
Tongatapu Regular bombing runs over P-P occur from this base. I have 50 Zeros and 100 Sallys flying from here. I order 1 Sentai of Sallys to do Ground Attack while the other 2 Sentai go for the AF.
Pago-Pago Here we go! My Intel has told me that there are nearly 30,000 troops present. I expect to find an Infantry Division, CD unit, Art unit, and several Base Forces. In expecting this, I plan for 50% MORE then what is reported. The goal is to land on the island, build-up troops, and destroy the Allied units there. My Invasion Force: 4th & 56th Inf Div, 9th Ind Brigade, South Seas Detachment, 2 Artillery Regiments, and a Base Force.
16-19th Aerial Bombardment, KB Attacks--using nearly 100 Vals--and Naval Bombardment prep for the landing. Pretty well manage to wreck the AF and its planes there and await the landing. Should note that this is occurring as the Americans attack Midway…
20th LANDING! Holy Cow…the CD is immense…3442 and 2893 shot fired on landing day! Numerous AK/AP hit and damaged. This being said, my troops make it ashore and HOLD off the first counterattack! Enemy entrenchments are at 7...
The enormous CD is explained when I see the units based on the island. I am SO GLAD I raised the estimate of resistance. Here are the units on Pago-Pago: 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Para Btn, 2 Marine Defense Btns, and FIVE US/Brit Base Forces. A Marine Division?! WOW!
Seeing the scale of resistance and a true opportunity to destroy an elite unit, I start moving my follow-on wave towards P-P: 2 Ind Brigades, an Eng Regiment, and 6 smaller Inf units (SNLF-type) head for Upolu--40,000+ Troops. If they are not enough, I will have 2 Infantry Divisions from Java in the area within 2-3 weeks.
21st An attempted Allied Shock Attack only yields 1-1 and is thrown back! I am ashore to stay…
The goal will now be to prevent any sort of reinforcement from arriving: KB-2 (Shokaku, Zuikaku, Shoho, Zuiho) and KB-1 (Akagi, Kaga, Soryu) move NE of P-P and assume a patrol position…I have 7 Glen SS in an arc running from North to due East of P-P to provide me with at least a 1 day warning of the enemy.
Allied SS SS are filling the waters between Noumea and Nandi as well as Nandi to Tongatapu. I watch as these SS begin to have a field day against my damaged AK/AP. I form 2 ASW TF to try and counter this.
Philippines
Momentum and numbers are on my side with Bataan. I continue to wear down the Forts until I capture Bataan on April 23rd and resistance ends! I get 61,495 POWs and can claim BANZAI!
My Philippine Army (5 Inf Div and numerous other units) begin prepping for the invasion of NW Australia. They will get a month of rest to recoup losses before I move them…
NW Aussieland
Kai Island His planes from Darwin continue hitting this base but do little damage.
Lautem and Amboina Occasional bombing raids hit here to no great effect.
Western DEI
Some SS and ASW action but nothing too interesting…
Leaving Batavia for raiding are:
KB-3a---Junyo/Hiyo/Ryujo (62Z, 34DB, 53TB) and CS Nisshin (20FP), 3CA, and 8DD
KB-3b---Hosho/Taiyo/Unyo (5Z/18DB/41TB) and CS Mizuho (17FP), BB Nagato, and 6DD
Burma
Akyab Begin regular Bombardments of this base by my surface forces.
Mandalay Notice that my opponents appear to be evacuating Mandalay on the 17th and order an attack. They are and I capture the city on the 19th. The Allied troops manage to escape my encirclement attempt--Grrr…
Charge up the railroad and harass his retreating units.
Have to deal with air raids constantly as Mandalay’s AF is repaired.
China
Yenen Everyday still sees a heavy air strike come in to try to keep the Forts from going up TOO rapidly. AVG appears and a bloody air battle is fought on the 22nd.
Wuchow Capture this city on the 16th.
The railroad is now clear in China. I will begin to think of where to go next but will wait for a while. Time to rest units, consolidate, and plan.
Totals for the Week:
Ships Sunk
Japanese 10 Total--1DD, 1PG, 1PC, 2AK, 4AP, and 1AO
Allied 1 Total--S-39
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 22 F, 40 B, 2TB, and 9DB---Total: 73 aircraft
Heavy Losses--the majority come from Midway and Yenen.
Allied 24 F, 16 B, 19DB, 3 TB and 9 Recon--Total: 72 aircraft
April 16-23, 1942
North Pacific
No action at all.
Central Pacific
Midway Whereas Canton Isle got the attention of the American Cvs in early-April, they take a serious swing at Midway on April 16-18! Initially, I thought it was a raid and then I spotted and invasion force coming in. It got a little interesting…
16th The battle opened with an aerial fight throughout the day. His 3 CV threw every SBD they had at Midway’s AF and I tried to strike back at his carriers. Over Midway, my Daitai of Zeros managed to bloody his SBDs pretty decently. At sea, I (probably) gave them a heart attack when I had a group of 8 Bettys break through CAP and make runs on Saratoga and Yorktown. American luck held and my Torps missed! Against this obvious firepower, I decide to pull my planes back to Wake.
17th Day opens with a bombardment by 2 old BB, 2CA, 1CL, and 5DD. Not doing too much damage, the Carriers launch large strikes of SBDs and TBDs. To add to the fun, 35 B-17 fly up from Canton Isle and hit the island--this is an all-out effort! Here comes the Transports…
18th The bombardment from ships and air continues as members of the 161st RCT land on the atoll. I have 2 small Naval Guard units, 2 Coast Defense units, and a large Aviation Regiment present. With all the pummeling these units have taken, I don’t expect too much; however, Colonel Hioka Yoshi puts together a SPLENDID defense that quickly isolates the assaulting waves and, LITERALLY, throws them back into the sea! BANZAI! The entire RCT is wiped out! BANZAI! Colonel Yoshi triumphantly radios back to Tokyo “send us more Americans!”
I got lucky here. Decide to reinforce the island with a large Naval Guard unit and will take off the 2 smaller ones that are present. Am sure that the Americans will be back…
SE Pacific
Operational Planning for Typhoon continues at Noumea while the long-planned invasion of Pago-Pago occurs!
Noumea My build-up at Noumea continues.
Suva/Nandi Move Aviation assets here and begin expanding facilities.
Upolu AF becomes operational on the 16th and I move a Sentai of Oscars there to protect shipping that move away from ago-Pago.
Tongatapu Regular bombing runs over P-P occur from this base. I have 50 Zeros and 100 Sallys flying from here. I order 1 Sentai of Sallys to do Ground Attack while the other 2 Sentai go for the AF.
Pago-Pago Here we go! My Intel has told me that there are nearly 30,000 troops present. I expect to find an Infantry Division, CD unit, Art unit, and several Base Forces. In expecting this, I plan for 50% MORE then what is reported. The goal is to land on the island, build-up troops, and destroy the Allied units there. My Invasion Force: 4th & 56th Inf Div, 9th Ind Brigade, South Seas Detachment, 2 Artillery Regiments, and a Base Force.
16-19th Aerial Bombardment, KB Attacks--using nearly 100 Vals--and Naval Bombardment prep for the landing. Pretty well manage to wreck the AF and its planes there and await the landing. Should note that this is occurring as the Americans attack Midway…
20th LANDING! Holy Cow…the CD is immense…3442 and 2893 shot fired on landing day! Numerous AK/AP hit and damaged. This being said, my troops make it ashore and HOLD off the first counterattack! Enemy entrenchments are at 7...
The enormous CD is explained when I see the units based on the island. I am SO GLAD I raised the estimate of resistance. Here are the units on Pago-Pago: 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Para Btn, 2 Marine Defense Btns, and FIVE US/Brit Base Forces. A Marine Division?! WOW!
Seeing the scale of resistance and a true opportunity to destroy an elite unit, I start moving my follow-on wave towards P-P: 2 Ind Brigades, an Eng Regiment, and 6 smaller Inf units (SNLF-type) head for Upolu--40,000+ Troops. If they are not enough, I will have 2 Infantry Divisions from Java in the area within 2-3 weeks.
21st An attempted Allied Shock Attack only yields 1-1 and is thrown back! I am ashore to stay…
The goal will now be to prevent any sort of reinforcement from arriving: KB-2 (Shokaku, Zuikaku, Shoho, Zuiho) and KB-1 (Akagi, Kaga, Soryu) move NE of P-P and assume a patrol position…I have 7 Glen SS in an arc running from North to due East of P-P to provide me with at least a 1 day warning of the enemy.
Allied SS SS are filling the waters between Noumea and Nandi as well as Nandi to Tongatapu. I watch as these SS begin to have a field day against my damaged AK/AP. I form 2 ASW TF to try and counter this.
Philippines
Momentum and numbers are on my side with Bataan. I continue to wear down the Forts until I capture Bataan on April 23rd and resistance ends! I get 61,495 POWs and can claim BANZAI!
My Philippine Army (5 Inf Div and numerous other units) begin prepping for the invasion of NW Australia. They will get a month of rest to recoup losses before I move them…
NW Aussieland
Kai Island His planes from Darwin continue hitting this base but do little damage.
Lautem and Amboina Occasional bombing raids hit here to no great effect.
Western DEI
Some SS and ASW action but nothing too interesting…
Leaving Batavia for raiding are:
KB-3a---Junyo/Hiyo/Ryujo (62Z, 34DB, 53TB) and CS Nisshin (20FP), 3CA, and 8DD
KB-3b---Hosho/Taiyo/Unyo (5Z/18DB/41TB) and CS Mizuho (17FP), BB Nagato, and 6DD
Burma
Akyab Begin regular Bombardments of this base by my surface forces.
Mandalay Notice that my opponents appear to be evacuating Mandalay on the 17th and order an attack. They are and I capture the city on the 19th. The Allied troops manage to escape my encirclement attempt--Grrr…
Charge up the railroad and harass his retreating units.
Have to deal with air raids constantly as Mandalay’s AF is repaired.
China
Yenen Everyday still sees a heavy air strike come in to try to keep the Forts from going up TOO rapidly. AVG appears and a bloody air battle is fought on the 22nd.
Wuchow Capture this city on the 16th.
The railroad is now clear in China. I will begin to think of where to go next but will wait for a while. Time to rest units, consolidate, and plan.
Totals for the Week:
Ships Sunk
Japanese 10 Total--1DD, 1PG, 1PC, 2AK, 4AP, and 1AO
Allied 1 Total--S-39
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 22 F, 40 B, 2TB, and 9DB---Total: 73 aircraft
Heavy Losses--the majority come from Midway and Yenen.
Allied 24 F, 16 B, 19DB, 3 TB and 9 Recon--Total: 72 aircraft
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
My Opponents Return
I've gotten several personal emails from readers asking why there haven't been any updates. Simple answer is that one of my esteemed opponents took off for some extended R&R. While he claimed to be in email contact, I saw no turns for over a week. [8|]
I checked my email today and low-and-behold there was a TURN! [:D] We are back and running. Just completed the April 30th turn and will post an update this weekend.
Hope that news helps!
I checked my email today and low-and-behold there was a TURN! [:D] We are back and running. Just completed the April 30th turn and will post an update this weekend.
Hope that news helps!
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
The Campaign for Pago-Pago, April 23-30, 1942
It has been forever since I updated my AAR! Life, as always with the two jobs and two sons, has been hectic. My Allie Nate and our worthy opponents have been making slow but steady progress with our 2x2. I am currently waiting for our May 16, 1942 turn to arrive and decided to try to get caught-up today.
Put simply, the war revolves the American bastion of Pago-Pago (Samoa). For the last six weeks, the entire focus of the Pacific War has been squarely placed on this island. When I set about to conquer the ENTIRE SE Pacific, I knew I might get a chance to destroy enemy units that were not, historically taken out. I accomplished this while taking New Caledonia, Nandi/Suva, and Canton--plus everything else in between--and had set my sights on the last American outpost in the SE Pacific.
Intelligence and Recon had placed resistance at about 7 units and 20,000 defenders. Figuring that that the actually numbers might be close to double this, I planned accordingly and landed with two complete Infantry Divisions, two Independent Brigades, and several supporting units. To my shock and somewhat horror, I found that I was confronting the 2nd Marine Division, 2 Marine CD Units, a Para Btn, and five BF! YIKES!!! Thankfully, I had enough strength to land and HOLD my beachhead!
The decision then became what to do.
Once my initial shock wore off at the opposition, I realized that I had been given a golden opportunity. No matter how many American Carriers and Cruisers I sank, they would all be replaced. A Marine Division COULD NOT! That realization changed everything.
In the six weeks that we have struggled for the island, I have moved two more Independent Brigades and most of the Java Island Campaign Force--three more ENTIRE divisions--to this island. During that time I have also withdrawn two of the more severely beat-up Brigades.
Everything has now assumed a pattern:
1. As I moved my convoys carrying all these troops back and forth, they have concentrated US SS throughout the area and have been having a field day hitting my AK/AP. I have moved nearly 50 ASW ships in to try and counter the threat. The Marine CD fire has been murderous as well!
2. I have accumulated a HUGE amount of airpower here. My airfields at Nandi (AF-3 near 4), Suva (AF-3 near 4), Canton (AF-4), Upolu (AF-2) and Tongatapu (AF-3 near 4) are chock full of aircraft. I, initially could only attack from Tongatapu, but now Upolu has grown to a Sz-2 AF and Kates/Vals have added their weight to the attack. Daily strikes hit the Marines, AF, and other targets.
3. The Combined Fleet is TETHERED to this damned island. Have never felt so controlled by an island in my gaming life! I have 7 CV (Akagi/Kaga, Shokaku/Zuikaku, Soryu, and 2 CVL) staying close enough to keep my opponents from trying to reinforce or evacuate the island. The island (actually islands) is bombarded 2-3 times a week. I have a highly useful screen of about 10 Glen SS that are in an arc about 12 hexes from Pago-Pago that have allowed me to know when the American Fleet has been sniffing around. My warships are all tired and not at peak efficiency. Once the island falls, then I will rest and refit my capital ships.
Operational Impact:
1. Operation Typhoon--the capture of New Zealand--has been moved back from early-May to early-July. I have HQ units in Noumea preparing for the invasion and an Infantry Division, Infantry Brigade, 2 Artillery Regiments, and some minor support units prepping as well. Whatever Infantry Divisions are strongest after P-P falls will be used to augment this Invasion Force… I figure that I will need at least two more to do the job.
A fresh KB-3 (Junyo/Hiyo and Ryujo) is moving to provide support to the exhausted members of KB-1 and -2.
2. Operation Southern Fury--the conquest of NW Australia--proceeds on schedule. I should be ready to launch that assault (starting north of Perth) about June 1st. I have been letting the triumphant Philippine Army rest and re-equip for nearly a month while prepping for the attack. They are currently being moved to Koepang for the operation.
KB-4 (Hosho and 2CVE) will cover the initial landing.
That is a summation of the big picture. Let us turn to the specifics:
Combat Report
April 24-30, 1942
North Pacific
No action at all.
Central Pacific
Midway After the heroic defense of the island, the Midway Garrison hangs on waiting supply and reinforcements. A semi-daily raid by B-17s from Johnston Island usually occurs. I am bringing in a large Naval Garrison (about 100 Assault Points) and pulling off a small SNLF).
SE Pacific
Noumea My build-up at Noumea continues--4 AR arrive to help repair shipping.
Suva/Nandi Expanding facilities--4 AR arrive here as well.
Upolu AF at Lvl 1 and expanding rapidly.
Tongatapu Regular missions fly from here to P-P. I have 36Z and about 150 bombers doing the job.
Pago-Pago Realizing that he cannot force my troops off the island and that I am well-supplied, I bombard the American and British defenders every day. I generally get about 125-150 Cas and knockout a few guns. This will help as time passes for the final assault.
Merauke Capture April 26th
Allied SS SS are filling the waters between Noumea and Nandi as well as Nandi to Tongatapu. I watch as these SS begin to have a field day against my damaged AK/AP. I form several ASW TF to try and counter this.
Naval Action! The CA--DD TF based in Auckland tries to interdict my supply line running from Noumea to Suva. While losing a few ships, my LBA makes him pay for it! CA Pensacola is sunk by 4TT on the 20th and a DD also takes a hit.
Philippines
I begin resting the victorious troops there! Mopping up commences:
Roxas Capture on April 26th
NW Aussieland
Kai Island His planes from Darwin continue hitting this base but do little damage.
Lautem and Amboina Occasional bombing raids hit here to no great effect.
Koepang This is the base from which I will launch the invasion of NW Australia. Begin to rapidly expand the Port and AF. Planes used in the Philippines slowly start moving down to the base.
Western DEI
Some SS and ASW action but nothing too interesting…
My Raid into the IO yields ONE MSW! These ships are needed elsewhere so I pull them and send KB-3a to Noumea and KB-3b (now KB-4) to Koepang:
KB-3a---Junyo/Hiyo/Ryujo (62Z, 34DB, 53TB) and CS Nisshin (20FP), 3CA, and 8DD
KB-3b---Hosho/Taiyo/Unyo (5Z/18DB/41TB) and CS Mizuho (17FP), BB Nagato, and 6DD
Burma
The air war stays hot here. Nate moves forces towards Myitkyina and Akyab.
Akyab Begin regular Bombardments of this base by my surface forces.
Mandalay Have to deal with air raids constantly as Mandalay’s AF is repaired.
China
Yenen After the appearance of the AVG on the 22nd, Nate lets his planes rest and replenish. I order two Claude Daitai in Japan to upgrade to A6M3, shift their ’ownership’ to 4th Fleet (and Nate), and prepare to move into China. These 54 Zero (with 70+ experience) should turn the tide back his way and allow for him to continue advancing on Yenen.
The railroad is now clear in China. Time to rest units, consolidate, and plan for the Yenen assault.
[center]Totals for the Week:[/center]
Ships Sunk
Japanese 8 Total--1MSW, 2AK, 5AP
Allied 3 Total--CA Pensacola, 1MSW, 1AK
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 5 F, 14 B, 1TB---Total: 20 aircraft
Much lighter losses. Hopefully this will allow my production to catch-up.
Allied 7 F, 4 B, 1 DB, 3 Recon---Total: 15 aircraft
Put simply, the war revolves the American bastion of Pago-Pago (Samoa). For the last six weeks, the entire focus of the Pacific War has been squarely placed on this island. When I set about to conquer the ENTIRE SE Pacific, I knew I might get a chance to destroy enemy units that were not, historically taken out. I accomplished this while taking New Caledonia, Nandi/Suva, and Canton--plus everything else in between--and had set my sights on the last American outpost in the SE Pacific.
Intelligence and Recon had placed resistance at about 7 units and 20,000 defenders. Figuring that that the actually numbers might be close to double this, I planned accordingly and landed with two complete Infantry Divisions, two Independent Brigades, and several supporting units. To my shock and somewhat horror, I found that I was confronting the 2nd Marine Division, 2 Marine CD Units, a Para Btn, and five BF! YIKES!!! Thankfully, I had enough strength to land and HOLD my beachhead!
The decision then became what to do.
Once my initial shock wore off at the opposition, I realized that I had been given a golden opportunity. No matter how many American Carriers and Cruisers I sank, they would all be replaced. A Marine Division COULD NOT! That realization changed everything.
In the six weeks that we have struggled for the island, I have moved two more Independent Brigades and most of the Java Island Campaign Force--three more ENTIRE divisions--to this island. During that time I have also withdrawn two of the more severely beat-up Brigades.
Everything has now assumed a pattern:
1. As I moved my convoys carrying all these troops back and forth, they have concentrated US SS throughout the area and have been having a field day hitting my AK/AP. I have moved nearly 50 ASW ships in to try and counter the threat. The Marine CD fire has been murderous as well!
2. I have accumulated a HUGE amount of airpower here. My airfields at Nandi (AF-3 near 4), Suva (AF-3 near 4), Canton (AF-4), Upolu (AF-2) and Tongatapu (AF-3 near 4) are chock full of aircraft. I, initially could only attack from Tongatapu, but now Upolu has grown to a Sz-2 AF and Kates/Vals have added their weight to the attack. Daily strikes hit the Marines, AF, and other targets.
3. The Combined Fleet is TETHERED to this damned island. Have never felt so controlled by an island in my gaming life! I have 7 CV (Akagi/Kaga, Shokaku/Zuikaku, Soryu, and 2 CVL) staying close enough to keep my opponents from trying to reinforce or evacuate the island. The island (actually islands) is bombarded 2-3 times a week. I have a highly useful screen of about 10 Glen SS that are in an arc about 12 hexes from Pago-Pago that have allowed me to know when the American Fleet has been sniffing around. My warships are all tired and not at peak efficiency. Once the island falls, then I will rest and refit my capital ships.
Operational Impact:
1. Operation Typhoon--the capture of New Zealand--has been moved back from early-May to early-July. I have HQ units in Noumea preparing for the invasion and an Infantry Division, Infantry Brigade, 2 Artillery Regiments, and some minor support units prepping as well. Whatever Infantry Divisions are strongest after P-P falls will be used to augment this Invasion Force… I figure that I will need at least two more to do the job.
A fresh KB-3 (Junyo/Hiyo and Ryujo) is moving to provide support to the exhausted members of KB-1 and -2.
2. Operation Southern Fury--the conquest of NW Australia--proceeds on schedule. I should be ready to launch that assault (starting north of Perth) about June 1st. I have been letting the triumphant Philippine Army rest and re-equip for nearly a month while prepping for the attack. They are currently being moved to Koepang for the operation.
KB-4 (Hosho and 2CVE) will cover the initial landing.
That is a summation of the big picture. Let us turn to the specifics:
Combat Report
April 24-30, 1942
North Pacific
No action at all.
Central Pacific
Midway After the heroic defense of the island, the Midway Garrison hangs on waiting supply and reinforcements. A semi-daily raid by B-17s from Johnston Island usually occurs. I am bringing in a large Naval Garrison (about 100 Assault Points) and pulling off a small SNLF).
SE Pacific
Noumea My build-up at Noumea continues--4 AR arrive to help repair shipping.
Suva/Nandi Expanding facilities--4 AR arrive here as well.
Upolu AF at Lvl 1 and expanding rapidly.
Tongatapu Regular missions fly from here to P-P. I have 36Z and about 150 bombers doing the job.
Pago-Pago Realizing that he cannot force my troops off the island and that I am well-supplied, I bombard the American and British defenders every day. I generally get about 125-150 Cas and knockout a few guns. This will help as time passes for the final assault.
Merauke Capture April 26th
Allied SS SS are filling the waters between Noumea and Nandi as well as Nandi to Tongatapu. I watch as these SS begin to have a field day against my damaged AK/AP. I form several ASW TF to try and counter this.
Naval Action! The CA--DD TF based in Auckland tries to interdict my supply line running from Noumea to Suva. While losing a few ships, my LBA makes him pay for it! CA Pensacola is sunk by 4TT on the 20th and a DD also takes a hit.
Philippines
I begin resting the victorious troops there! Mopping up commences:
Roxas Capture on April 26th
NW Aussieland
Kai Island His planes from Darwin continue hitting this base but do little damage.
Lautem and Amboina Occasional bombing raids hit here to no great effect.
Koepang This is the base from which I will launch the invasion of NW Australia. Begin to rapidly expand the Port and AF. Planes used in the Philippines slowly start moving down to the base.
Western DEI
Some SS and ASW action but nothing too interesting…
My Raid into the IO yields ONE MSW! These ships are needed elsewhere so I pull them and send KB-3a to Noumea and KB-3b (now KB-4) to Koepang:
KB-3a---Junyo/Hiyo/Ryujo (62Z, 34DB, 53TB) and CS Nisshin (20FP), 3CA, and 8DD
KB-3b---Hosho/Taiyo/Unyo (5Z/18DB/41TB) and CS Mizuho (17FP), BB Nagato, and 6DD
Burma
The air war stays hot here. Nate moves forces towards Myitkyina and Akyab.
Akyab Begin regular Bombardments of this base by my surface forces.
Mandalay Have to deal with air raids constantly as Mandalay’s AF is repaired.
China
Yenen After the appearance of the AVG on the 22nd, Nate lets his planes rest and replenish. I order two Claude Daitai in Japan to upgrade to A6M3, shift their ’ownership’ to 4th Fleet (and Nate), and prepare to move into China. These 54 Zero (with 70+ experience) should turn the tide back his way and allow for him to continue advancing on Yenen.
The railroad is now clear in China. Time to rest units, consolidate, and plan for the Yenen assault.
[center]Totals for the Week:[/center]
Ships Sunk
Japanese 8 Total--1MSW, 2AK, 5AP
Allied 3 Total--CA Pensacola, 1MSW, 1AK
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 5 F, 14 B, 1TB---Total: 20 aircraft
Much lighter losses. Hopefully this will allow my production to catch-up.
Allied 7 F, 4 B, 1 DB, 3 Recon---Total: 15 aircraft
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Death to the 2nd Marine Division! May 1-15, 1942
Combat Report
May 1-15, 1942
North Pacific
I have a couple of SS operating around Anchorage and Dutch Harbor. One of them tries to sink a MSW in Anchorage and takes 3 DC for its effort.
Central Pacific
Midway My reinforcement/supply convoy arrives on the 8th and drops off 25,000 Supply, 8,000 Fuel, and a large Nvl Guard unit. I have about 350 Assault Points of strength here now. About everyday somewhere between 20-30 B-17 appear over the base and hit the AF. Not much damage done but it is a nuisance.
SE Pacific
Noumea Busy expanding Port and AF. Slowly gathering shipping, supply, and fuel for the assault on New Zealand.
Suva/Nandi Expanding facilities and patching up damaged AK/AP from P-P. About twice a week, a damaged convoy leaves Suva for Shanghai or Hong Kong for repair.
Upolu AF raises to Lvl 2 on the 15th! I have two Daitai of Kates, One Daitai of Vals, and a Daitai of Oscars here. They immediately begin attacking P-P.
Tongatapu Regular missions fly from here to P-P. I have 36Z and about 150 bombers doing the job.
Pago-Pago We reach endgame for this Isle over the two week period! My reinforcements finally arrive:
4th & 5th Two Brigades and an Aviation Regiment land.
7th & 11th Pull two badly damaged Brigades (5th and
6th Brigades from China) off of P-P. One goes for garrision duty on Canton and the other heads to Noumea to re-equip for New Zealand.
15th Final landing occurs carrying TWO Infantry Divisions and an Engineering Regiment.
Daily air strikes and raids occur. I bombard every day and hit the base about every 4th day with a BB/BC STF.
The Shock Attack, due to the landing on the 15th, actually REDUCES his Forts from 7 to 6. The end is HERE!!!! Give myself about 7-10 days and I should have a HUGE new haul of POWs! BANZAI!
Allied SS and ASW My ASW TF start to punch back during these two weeks. I damage 4-5 Allied SS and sink the USS Halibut! They are successful enough, I get the query as to whether I am following the 6 Ship ASW Rule? For the independent ASW TF this is true but what I am really doing is packing PC/MSW/APD around a group of 4-7 damaged AP/AK and shepherding them back to Suva from P-P or Upolu. Seems to be working…
THE AMERICAN FLEET: Twice in the two week period, my Glen SS spot several TF of US Ships including at least 2CV, 3BB, and numerous support vessels. The first spotting is on the 5th to the East of P-P and the second is on the 15th almost due south of P-P. Range each time was roughly 14-16 hexes away. I taunt my opponents ‘come and play’ but they will have none of it. This might make things interesting for the New Zealand Operation…
Philippines
Begin moving troops from Manila to Koepang during this time. I lift two complete Infantry Divisions, 1 Brigade, 1 Tk Reg, 4 Art Reg, and 2 Eng Reg. This nearly 80,000 troops. With some aviation units and HQ, they will assault Perth.
NW Aussieland
Kai Island His planes from Darwin continue hitting this base but do little damage.
Lautem and Amboina Occasional bombing raids hit here to no great effect.
Koepang This is the base from which I will launch the invasion of NW Australia. Begin to rapidly expand the Port and AF. The AF is filling up. I have about 75 Fighters and 80 Bombers plus Recon present. More is on the way…
Western DEI
Some SS and ASW action but nothing too interesting…
I split my small CV TF:
KB-3---Junyo/Hiyo/Ryujo (62Z, 34DB, 53TB) and CS Nisshin (20FP), 3CA, and 8DD head for Noumea via Port Moresby.
KB-4---Hosho/Taiyo/Unyo (5Z/18DB/41TB) and CS Mizuho (17FP), BB Nagato, and 6DD go to Koepang for some raiding along the Aussie Coast.
Burma
My esteemed partner starts to play guessing games with incoming bomber strikes. Three times he guesses correctly and put 40-50 Zero over a target and wipes out nice amounts of bombers and/or strafing Fighters.
Akyab Begin regular Bombardments of this base by my surface forces.
Mandalay Move about 125 Fighters to this base and HOPE it is enough to hold it.
Andaman Island The Royal Navy pays a visit with a bombardment on the 9th. My Betty’s seemingly cannot locate them and they get away--AGAIN!
China
Yenen Use Bombers and Oscars to attack various Troops concentrations near Yenen. On the 15th, Nate moves three Daitai of Zeros there. These are all A6M3 and high hopes are expected with Fighter Sweeps beginning REAL soon.
Begin the approach march to Yenen. Knock his outlying troops (3 Corps) back into the city. I am approaching from the SE road. Prior to entering the city hex, Nate has ordered 3-4 units to move directly south of Yenen to start a flanking attack. Didn’t work at Mandalay but we’ll see…
[center]Totals for the Week:[/center]
Ships Sunk
Japanese 21 Total--1PC, 1 DD, 1TK, 7AK, 11AP----Nearly all due to the CD at P-P!
Allied 4 Total--1DD, 1AK, 1TK, and SS Halibut
ONLY four ships! This is what results from being tethered around an island...
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 13 F, 42 B, 8 Recon---Total: 63 aircraft
AVG does some damage near Yenen and lose a few bombers everyday to AA at P-P.
Allied 50 F, 41 B, 4 4EB, 2 DB, 12 Recon---Total: 109 aircraft
The bombers and fighters are mostly from Burma and a few from P-P. ALL the Recon are from P-P.
Not a bad amount of give-and-take for the two week period. Like to be about 2-1 in kills...
May 1-15, 1942
North Pacific
I have a couple of SS operating around Anchorage and Dutch Harbor. One of them tries to sink a MSW in Anchorage and takes 3 DC for its effort.
Central Pacific
Midway My reinforcement/supply convoy arrives on the 8th and drops off 25,000 Supply, 8,000 Fuel, and a large Nvl Guard unit. I have about 350 Assault Points of strength here now. About everyday somewhere between 20-30 B-17 appear over the base and hit the AF. Not much damage done but it is a nuisance.
SE Pacific
Noumea Busy expanding Port and AF. Slowly gathering shipping, supply, and fuel for the assault on New Zealand.
Suva/Nandi Expanding facilities and patching up damaged AK/AP from P-P. About twice a week, a damaged convoy leaves Suva for Shanghai or Hong Kong for repair.
Upolu AF raises to Lvl 2 on the 15th! I have two Daitai of Kates, One Daitai of Vals, and a Daitai of Oscars here. They immediately begin attacking P-P.
Tongatapu Regular missions fly from here to P-P. I have 36Z and about 150 bombers doing the job.
Pago-Pago We reach endgame for this Isle over the two week period! My reinforcements finally arrive:
4th & 5th Two Brigades and an Aviation Regiment land.
7th & 11th Pull two badly damaged Brigades (5th and
6th Brigades from China) off of P-P. One goes for garrision duty on Canton and the other heads to Noumea to re-equip for New Zealand.
15th Final landing occurs carrying TWO Infantry Divisions and an Engineering Regiment.
Daily air strikes and raids occur. I bombard every day and hit the base about every 4th day with a BB/BC STF.
The Shock Attack, due to the landing on the 15th, actually REDUCES his Forts from 7 to 6. The end is HERE!!!! Give myself about 7-10 days and I should have a HUGE new haul of POWs! BANZAI!
Allied SS and ASW My ASW TF start to punch back during these two weeks. I damage 4-5 Allied SS and sink the USS Halibut! They are successful enough, I get the query as to whether I am following the 6 Ship ASW Rule? For the independent ASW TF this is true but what I am really doing is packing PC/MSW/APD around a group of 4-7 damaged AP/AK and shepherding them back to Suva from P-P or Upolu. Seems to be working…
THE AMERICAN FLEET: Twice in the two week period, my Glen SS spot several TF of US Ships including at least 2CV, 3BB, and numerous support vessels. The first spotting is on the 5th to the East of P-P and the second is on the 15th almost due south of P-P. Range each time was roughly 14-16 hexes away. I taunt my opponents ‘come and play’ but they will have none of it. This might make things interesting for the New Zealand Operation…
Philippines
Begin moving troops from Manila to Koepang during this time. I lift two complete Infantry Divisions, 1 Brigade, 1 Tk Reg, 4 Art Reg, and 2 Eng Reg. This nearly 80,000 troops. With some aviation units and HQ, they will assault Perth.
NW Aussieland
Kai Island His planes from Darwin continue hitting this base but do little damage.
Lautem and Amboina Occasional bombing raids hit here to no great effect.
Koepang This is the base from which I will launch the invasion of NW Australia. Begin to rapidly expand the Port and AF. The AF is filling up. I have about 75 Fighters and 80 Bombers plus Recon present. More is on the way…
Western DEI
Some SS and ASW action but nothing too interesting…
I split my small CV TF:
KB-3---Junyo/Hiyo/Ryujo (62Z, 34DB, 53TB) and CS Nisshin (20FP), 3CA, and 8DD head for Noumea via Port Moresby.
KB-4---Hosho/Taiyo/Unyo (5Z/18DB/41TB) and CS Mizuho (17FP), BB Nagato, and 6DD go to Koepang for some raiding along the Aussie Coast.
Burma
My esteemed partner starts to play guessing games with incoming bomber strikes. Three times he guesses correctly and put 40-50 Zero over a target and wipes out nice amounts of bombers and/or strafing Fighters.
Akyab Begin regular Bombardments of this base by my surface forces.
Mandalay Move about 125 Fighters to this base and HOPE it is enough to hold it.
Andaman Island The Royal Navy pays a visit with a bombardment on the 9th. My Betty’s seemingly cannot locate them and they get away--AGAIN!
China
Yenen Use Bombers and Oscars to attack various Troops concentrations near Yenen. On the 15th, Nate moves three Daitai of Zeros there. These are all A6M3 and high hopes are expected with Fighter Sweeps beginning REAL soon.
Begin the approach march to Yenen. Knock his outlying troops (3 Corps) back into the city. I am approaching from the SE road. Prior to entering the city hex, Nate has ordered 3-4 units to move directly south of Yenen to start a flanking attack. Didn’t work at Mandalay but we’ll see…
[center]Totals for the Week:[/center]
Ships Sunk
Japanese 21 Total--1PC, 1 DD, 1TK, 7AK, 11AP----Nearly all due to the CD at P-P!
Allied 4 Total--1DD, 1AK, 1TK, and SS Halibut
ONLY four ships! This is what results from being tethered around an island...
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 13 F, 42 B, 8 Recon---Total: 63 aircraft
AVG does some damage near Yenen and lose a few bombers everyday to AA at P-P.
Allied 50 F, 41 B, 4 4EB, 2 DB, 12 Recon---Total: 109 aircraft
The bombers and fighters are mostly from Burma and a few from P-P. ALL the Recon are from P-P.
Not a bad amount of give-and-take for the two week period. Like to be about 2-1 in kills...
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
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USSAmerica
- Posts: 19211
- Joined: Mon Oct 28, 2002 4:32 am
- Location: Graham, NC, USA
- Contact:
RE: Death to the 2nd Marine Division! May 1-15, 1942
Good to see more from you, John! Keep hacking away at that tether around P-P. It seems about ready to break! [8D]
Mike
"Good times will set you free" - Jimmy Buffett
"They need more rum punch" - Me
Artwork by The Amazing Dixie
"Good times will set you free" - Jimmy Buffett
"They need more rum punch" - Me
Artwork by The Amazing Dixie
May 1942 Victory Point and Industrial Report
Japanese Industrial and Victory Point Report
1 May 1942
Score
Japan 18,625
Allies 5,796
Ships Sunk
Japan 207--Score 1901VP--
Warships Lost--Hiryu, Fuso, 3CL, 18DD, 8SS
Merchant Marine Losses--AV/CS 2, 126 AP/AK, 8 TK, 19 PG/PC, 17 MSW, 4 APD, 1 ML, 1 MLE
The warship losses are a little higher than I would like. I am still rankled over losing Hiryu right at the start of the war when she SHOULD have been saved! Nearly 33% of the AP/AK losses are due to Marine CD at Pago-Pago!
I have a bunch of ships repairing in the yards. Nearly my entire battleline was out of service from Feb-May! Literally had 6 BB in the repair yards.
Allies 213--Score 2440VP--
Warships Lost--Lexington, Enterprise, Oklahoma, 2CA, 7CL, 22DD, 5SS, 31 PT-Boats
Merchant Marine Losses--AV/CS 1, AP/AK 52, TK/AO 17, PG/PC 10, MSW 19, ML 4
Haven't hurt his navy or merchant fleet near as much as I want to. Operation Typhoon might go a long way to helping here. I intend to cordon off New Zealand, sink anything there, and then take it.
Base Points
Japan 317--4,913
Allies 131--1,108
Aircraft Points
Japan 2,035
Allies 2,391
I have gotten stuck into an attritional airwar over Burma. It has hurt a lot (mainly my Sally/Helen Sentais) but I have also inflicted heavy losses on his fighter squadrons. The SE Pacific area has a HUGE amount of airpower in it that will get used when I have New Zealand Bases to operate from.
Army Loss Points
Japan 753
Allies 8,881
Life here is good and will only get better! When I add another 30,000+ POWs to the bag from P-P, this total will jump nicely.
Industry
Supply 2,091,424
Fuel 3,538,912
Manpower 814 (71,035)
Resources 18,994 (1,721,883)
Oil 2359 (1,602,735)
Shipyards
Naval 1274 (8)
Merchant 1016 (350)
Repair 1082
War Industry
Armaments 675 (40,954)
Vehicles 178 (16,670)
Aircraft Engines 1,768
---Mitsubishi 815/Month--1,558 in Pool
---Nakajima 781/Month--5 in Pool
---Kawasaki 158/Month--924 in Pool
---Aichi 14/Month--24 in Pool
Aircraft Assembly 788+406-Rd
Aircraft Production
Fighters
A6M2 197
A6M3 72
Oscar 116
Tony R-207 Online one month early in July 1942!
Tojo R-50
Jack R-67
Bombers
Betty 76
Helen 70
Sally 36
Vals 41
Kates 44
Recon/Floatplanes
Emily 16
Alf 23
Glen 8
Dinah 31
Rufe 14
Jake 11
Transports
Topsy 10
Mavis 8
Tina 26
Sally (MC-21) 5
Aircraft production is solid. I have a shortage of bombers due to the heavy aerial combat over Burma but everything else is good. I will begin to cut back several plane types now that the Pools are big enough. Will pullback on Tina, Rufe, Dinah, and Alf. My pool for the Lily is nearly eghausted so I'll have to restart these planes...
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
RE: May 1942 Victory Point and Industrial Report
Thanks for the response Capt. America! For the first time in WEEKS I am caught up with the AAR.
The end is near for those Marines at P-P! I am have allowed myself to become totally committed here to destroying these units. I just gave orders for over 80 AP to move from Noumea and Suva to Upolu so I can quickly pick-up my troops for Operation Typhoon.
His fleet is definately sniffing around and I cannot but hope for a Fleet action soon. My CVs are now headed for Noumea to rest some and get ready for a fight. Four of the seven CV/CVL have operational damage over 10 and I do not like that. Have ARs in Noumea and maybe they can whittle that down some.
The build-up at Koepang continues to proceed. I will dictate an Operational Order pretty soon for that offensive.
The end is near for those Marines at P-P! I am have allowed myself to become totally committed here to destroying these units. I just gave orders for over 80 AP to move from Noumea and Suva to Upolu so I can quickly pick-up my troops for Operation Typhoon.
His fleet is definately sniffing around and I cannot but hope for a Fleet action soon. My CVs are now headed for Noumea to rest some and get ready for a fight. Four of the seven CV/CVL have operational damage over 10 and I do not like that. Have ARs in Noumea and maybe they can whittle that down some.
The build-up at Koepang continues to proceed. I will dictate an Operational Order pretty soon for that offensive.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Pago-Pago Falls! Death to the 2nd Marine Division!!! Banzai!
Combat Report
May 16-20, 1942
For the greater GLORY of Japan do I make this update! BANZAI!
North Pacific
No activity. My base at Kiska has nearly reached Port & AF 3. When that happens, things will heat-up a little as I forward deploy some ships, SS, and aircraft.
Central Pacific
Midway A pattern of an every other day B-17 Raid here has developed. I might try to bushwhack those B-17s sometime soon…
SE Pacific
Noumea On the 16th, my last Inf Div from Java begins unloading here. It has an Artillery and Engineering Regiment with it. They, with a former China Brigade, will form the rested portion of my New Zealand attack.
Anticipating victory at P-P, I send a large AP convoy (to pick up units) in that direction on the 17th.
Suva/Nandi Expanding facilities and patching up damaged AK/AP from P-P. About twice a week, a damaged convoy leaves Suva for Shanghai or Hong Kong for repair. Another AP/AK convoy departs for P-P on the 16th.
Upolu My Kates/Vals/Oscars fly daily attacks on P-P targets. I don’t lose too many and I see their experience climb some.
Tongatapu Regular missions fly from here to P-P. I have 36Z and about 150 bombers doing the job.
Pago-Pago We left off with the Marines seeing nearly 50 AP drop anchor on the 15th and begin to unload two Inf Div and an Engineering Regiment. This massive increase in troops does the trick!
16th With troops still landing, the automatic Shock Attack occurs and I get 3-1! Forts drop from 6 down to 3. KNOWING what is about to occur, Admiral Yamamoto humbly asks the Marines to surrender over the air through Toyko Rose…the Marines refuse to answer…oh, well…
17th The last of my reinforcements land and cause the normal Shock Attack. I get 1-1 from it and the Forts drop to 2. The 1-1 occurred due to my resting my troops that weren’t landing. I want the nest attack to FINISH the Marines!
18th Prepare for final attack.
19th Open a furious artillery bombardment and order troops to sharpen bayonets and swords…
20th BANZAI! BANZAI!! BANZAI!!! The combined assault of nearly 65,000 Japanese troops crushes the enemy defences. I get a 6-1! The facilities, port, and AF become mine and the following units surrender: 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Para Btn, 2nd/7th Marine CD Btns, and 5 Base Force! Total POW bag is 31,110 troops! How about that??!!
Allied SS and ASW My ASW TF manage to damage 3 SS during these days.
THE AMERICAN FLEET: Two Glen-equipped I-Boats track portions of the American Fleet eastwards on an apparent course for New Zealand. Several times, 2 CVs are spotted with several heavy surface units. Looks like I will have my chance for a Fleet Action when I move against New Zealand.
JAPANESE REDEPLOYMENT: Starting on the 18th, I begin moving my very TIRED warships. Most of the shipping goes to Noumea for R&R. They will get that and there are 4AR in port that might help with their Sys Dam. Another, smaller group of CV go to Suva for the same purpose.
BB YAMATO joins the Imperial Fleet on May 20th. She is immediately placed in a STF comprising Yamato, BB Ise, 2CA, 1CL, and 6DD. They head for Noumea…
Philippines
Continue moving troops from Manila to Koepang for Operation Southern Fury.
Iliolo This base falls to me on the 18th.
NW Aussieland
Kai Island His planes from Darwin continue hitting this base every few days but do little damage.
Lautem and Amboina Occasional bombing raids hit here to no great effect.
Koepang Starting to get cramped from all the shipping dropping off troops.
KB-3 (while en route to PM and then Noumea) sink an AK NE of Darwin on the 18th.
KB-4 arrives in Koepang on the 19th. It is immediately dispatched due west for some raiding.
Western DEI
Some SS and ASW action but nothing too interesting…
Burma
Akyab Bombers and Fighters from Rangoon begin everyday training missions to help bolster experience.
Mandalay 3 Daitai of Zeros and 2 Sentai of Oscars are holding this base. The Zeros make periodic sweeps and bag a number of fighters trying to strafe Japanese troops to the north.
Andaman Island A group of 6 Minelayers arrive with an MLE at Georgetown and commence mining operations at this island to provide a rude surprise to the Royal Navy the next time it decides to pay a visit.
Chandpur, India A convoy is spotted by my recon planes and a strike flies from Rangoon to hit it! 64 Zero escort 71 Betty in a large-scale attack upon the port. The defense is anchored by 19 Hurricanes and my Zeros (in losing 4 of their own) manage to shot down ALL the Hurricanes! The bombers go in and sink 1AK, 1ML, 1MSW and heavily damage another MSW, 3AK, and 3TK. Not bad but I hope more of them sink!
China
Yenen REAL quiet! Our planes don’t fly too much due to batch of bad weather days.
[center]Totals for the Week:[/center]
Ships Sunk
Japanese 10 Total--6AK, 4AP--All due to the CD at P-P!
Allied 5 Total--1ML, 3AK, and 1MSW
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 26 F, 2 B, 2 DB, 2TB---Total: 31 aircraft
Fighter losses are over Burma.
Allied 40 F and 4 R---Total: 44 aircraft
Fighters are from Burma and ALL the Recon are from P-P.
Thoughts from my readers??!! [8D]
May 16-20, 1942
For the greater GLORY of Japan do I make this update! BANZAI!
North Pacific
No activity. My base at Kiska has nearly reached Port & AF 3. When that happens, things will heat-up a little as I forward deploy some ships, SS, and aircraft.
Central Pacific
Midway A pattern of an every other day B-17 Raid here has developed. I might try to bushwhack those B-17s sometime soon…
SE Pacific
Noumea On the 16th, my last Inf Div from Java begins unloading here. It has an Artillery and Engineering Regiment with it. They, with a former China Brigade, will form the rested portion of my New Zealand attack.
Anticipating victory at P-P, I send a large AP convoy (to pick up units) in that direction on the 17th.
Suva/Nandi Expanding facilities and patching up damaged AK/AP from P-P. About twice a week, a damaged convoy leaves Suva for Shanghai or Hong Kong for repair. Another AP/AK convoy departs for P-P on the 16th.
Upolu My Kates/Vals/Oscars fly daily attacks on P-P targets. I don’t lose too many and I see their experience climb some.
Tongatapu Regular missions fly from here to P-P. I have 36Z and about 150 bombers doing the job.
Pago-Pago We left off with the Marines seeing nearly 50 AP drop anchor on the 15th and begin to unload two Inf Div and an Engineering Regiment. This massive increase in troops does the trick!
16th With troops still landing, the automatic Shock Attack occurs and I get 3-1! Forts drop from 6 down to 3. KNOWING what is about to occur, Admiral Yamamoto humbly asks the Marines to surrender over the air through Toyko Rose…the Marines refuse to answer…oh, well…
17th The last of my reinforcements land and cause the normal Shock Attack. I get 1-1 from it and the Forts drop to 2. The 1-1 occurred due to my resting my troops that weren’t landing. I want the nest attack to FINISH the Marines!
18th Prepare for final attack.
19th Open a furious artillery bombardment and order troops to sharpen bayonets and swords…
20th BANZAI! BANZAI!! BANZAI!!! The combined assault of nearly 65,000 Japanese troops crushes the enemy defences. I get a 6-1! The facilities, port, and AF become mine and the following units surrender: 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Para Btn, 2nd/7th Marine CD Btns, and 5 Base Force! Total POW bag is 31,110 troops! How about that??!!
Allied SS and ASW My ASW TF manage to damage 3 SS during these days.
THE AMERICAN FLEET: Two Glen-equipped I-Boats track portions of the American Fleet eastwards on an apparent course for New Zealand. Several times, 2 CVs are spotted with several heavy surface units. Looks like I will have my chance for a Fleet Action when I move against New Zealand.
JAPANESE REDEPLOYMENT: Starting on the 18th, I begin moving my very TIRED warships. Most of the shipping goes to Noumea for R&R. They will get that and there are 4AR in port that might help with their Sys Dam. Another, smaller group of CV go to Suva for the same purpose.
BB YAMATO joins the Imperial Fleet on May 20th. She is immediately placed in a STF comprising Yamato, BB Ise, 2CA, 1CL, and 6DD. They head for Noumea…
Philippines
Continue moving troops from Manila to Koepang for Operation Southern Fury.
Iliolo This base falls to me on the 18th.
NW Aussieland
Kai Island His planes from Darwin continue hitting this base every few days but do little damage.
Lautem and Amboina Occasional bombing raids hit here to no great effect.
Koepang Starting to get cramped from all the shipping dropping off troops.
KB-3 (while en route to PM and then Noumea) sink an AK NE of Darwin on the 18th.
KB-4 arrives in Koepang on the 19th. It is immediately dispatched due west for some raiding.
Western DEI
Some SS and ASW action but nothing too interesting…
Burma
Akyab Bombers and Fighters from Rangoon begin everyday training missions to help bolster experience.
Mandalay 3 Daitai of Zeros and 2 Sentai of Oscars are holding this base. The Zeros make periodic sweeps and bag a number of fighters trying to strafe Japanese troops to the north.
Andaman Island A group of 6 Minelayers arrive with an MLE at Georgetown and commence mining operations at this island to provide a rude surprise to the Royal Navy the next time it decides to pay a visit.
Chandpur, India A convoy is spotted by my recon planes and a strike flies from Rangoon to hit it! 64 Zero escort 71 Betty in a large-scale attack upon the port. The defense is anchored by 19 Hurricanes and my Zeros (in losing 4 of their own) manage to shot down ALL the Hurricanes! The bombers go in and sink 1AK, 1ML, 1MSW and heavily damage another MSW, 3AK, and 3TK. Not bad but I hope more of them sink!
China
Yenen REAL quiet! Our planes don’t fly too much due to batch of bad weather days.
[center]Totals for the Week:[/center]
Ships Sunk
Japanese 10 Total--6AK, 4AP--All due to the CD at P-P!
Allied 5 Total--1ML, 3AK, and 1MSW
Aircraft Losses
Japanese 26 F, 2 B, 2 DB, 2TB---Total: 31 aircraft
Fighter losses are over Burma.
Allied 40 F and 4 R---Total: 44 aircraft
Fighters are from Burma and ALL the Recon are from P-P.
Thoughts from my readers??!! [8D]
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
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USSAmerica
- Posts: 19211
- Joined: Mon Oct 28, 2002 4:32 am
- Location: Graham, NC, USA
- Contact:
RE: Pago-Pago Falls! Death to the 2nd Marine Division!!! Banzai!
Congratulations on the big victory at P-P, John! As I've said many times, your planning, management, execution, and results are most impressive. [8D]
I will be very interested to see how well you are able to keep up the pace of operations. Keep up the great work, both in the game, and with the detailed AAR. I've just started my first PBEM game, as the Allies, against MontereyTrench. I'll hope to apply many of the lessons I have learned from reading your AAR and many others, but I know that my experienced and worthy opponent will provide many more lessons! [;)] What better way to improve in my next PBEM game? "Thank you sir, may I have another?" [:D]
I will be very interested to see how well you are able to keep up the pace of operations. Keep up the great work, both in the game, and with the detailed AAR. I've just started my first PBEM game, as the Allies, against MontereyTrench. I'll hope to apply many of the lessons I have learned from reading your AAR and many others, but I know that my experienced and worthy opponent will provide many more lessons! [;)] What better way to improve in my next PBEM game? "Thank you sir, may I have another?" [:D]
Mike
"Good times will set you free" - Jimmy Buffett
"They need more rum punch" - Me
Artwork by The Amazing Dixie
"Good times will set you free" - Jimmy Buffett
"They need more rum punch" - Me
Artwork by The Amazing Dixie