Matrix Games Forums

Thanks all for the good wishes. It's been fun so far, with a few challenges. Helps to have a good partner in the game, just like AE!

[font="Times New Roman"]May 18-31, 1944[/font]

---

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]THE GAME: [/font] For the 18th and 19th and 20th there was nothing in the combat report. The number of these turns at this stage of the war has been getting me nervous. I wrote to Joe to just see if he still was interested. I knew he had restarted another game, and he was pretty down after the last CV clash. He got back assuring me it was just taking time.

The longer it takes the more confident I feel in the Japanese defences. I still have a lot of forts to build and areas to improve, but troops are arriving now. Lots of them from this point on. I've been sending most to fill in the DEI hole. If Joe is massing forces elsewhere and going for the jugular, say up North, I should still be able to react. At this point I hope there are no easy targets.

Although my time is a bit, ahh, less plentiful, turns are still coming and going at 4-6 a week. [:)]

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]BURMA: [/font] Sqz sends a bunch of 2E at my moving 2nd tank division near Taung Gyi, and accomplishes little. This is deep hilly x3 jungle, so not surprising. Sqz though is a bit perturbed, and seems to be exasperated by these little setbacks. I fear for the big ones later. 44-45 should be absolute carnage for both sides, but so far we're just flipping very banal turns for weeks between actions. He does look to eb massing some troops and moving into central Burma. Could be a real thrust. I'm back filling the Burmese, Thai and Malay coastlines just in case it's a diversion before an amphib strike to the rear.

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]CENT PAC: [/font] My little xAKL runs to the Marshalls are found out. An encounter between xAKL Assam Maru and the Raton sends the freighter burning to a nearby beach.

An empty Ocean Island is taken by the Allies.

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]SW PAC: [/font] The Allies hit Dagua and with some bombing runs and a few strikes on Gove. No further troop moves or concentrated air campaigns.
[font="Trebuchet MS"]
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR May 27, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Morning Air attack on 2nd Tank Division, at 58,49 , near Taung Gyi

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 64 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 18 minutes

Allied aircraft
B-25D Mitchell x 11
B-25C Mitchell x 18
B-25C Mitchell x 15
B-25D1 Mitchell x 18
P-51A Mustang x 12

Allied aircraft losses
B-25D Mitchell: 1 damaged
B-25C Mitchell: 3 damaged
B-25D1 Mitchell: 1 damaged
B-25D1 Mitchell: 1 destroyed by flak

Japanese ground losses:
16 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
11 x B-25D Mitchell bombing from 8000 feet
Ground Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[/font]

---

[font="Trebuchet MS"]Lots of Allied troops massing near Magwe. I've activated reserves, strengthened the block between Prome and Taung Gyi, and have a few troops in strat mode ready to move once something becomes clear. [/font]

---

Congratulations on your new addition! I noted you to be absent for several weeks. I'm off with buddy to London/Portsmouth/Bovington etc in spring and wonder what apps you might be able to recommend.

ORIGINAL: obvert

An apology for my lack of updates and general absence for the past week or two.

Yesterday my wife gave birth to a daughter at 3:50pm! Everyone is healthy and Violet is happily feeding as I type.

Just wanted to let you all know and get the AAR off of page 2!

Back soon to do some posts I hope.

Oops - missed your announcement until now: Congratulations!!! [:)]

Hope you have both been getting some sleep this past week. [;)]

ORIGINAL: witpqs

ORIGINAL: obvert

An apology for my lack of updates and general absence for the past week or two.

Yesterday my wife gave birth to a daughter at 3:50pm! Everyone is healthy and Violet is happily feeding as I type.

Just wanted to let you all know and get the AAR off of page 2!

Back soon to do some posts I hope.

Oops - missed your announcement until now: Congratulations!!! [:)]

Hope you have both been getting some sleep this past week. [;)]

Thanks! Not too bad so far. Learning about the logistical and strategic concerns required in raising a small human. Base camp is operational, we have functional bomb disposal equipment, and so far the mess is providing plenty of nutritional meals to keep her actively engaged. [;)]

[font="Times New Roman"]June 1-7, 1944[/font]

---

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]SUBS: [/font] We have some action!

A very fun combat on June 1 between USS Bream and xAKL Nichiryo Maru. The Bream attacked on the surface, didn't fire torpedoes, and paid a price by taking 4 direct hits and disengaging due to ongoing fires. [:D] The Japanese steamer took 10 hits but has only 36 system and minor float damage, and she'll limp back toward Marcus Island to deposit the supply extracted form Wotje.

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]SW PAC: [/font] The Allies invade Ponape!! A large assault hits the base, which has been slowly decommissioned, and which I consider well behind the front lines these days. The CD guns are still there though, and I welcome the opportunity to get them into play! The Allied support ships take most of the punishment and leave the most important transports untouched. A few LST and xAP take some heavier damage and the I-178 moves in fro Truk to likely finish off xAP Sarpendonia with troops still aboard. [:)]

One Judy strike hits the remaining ships on day 2 as well, taking out half of a small TF. Better than nothing and a small overall VP gain since many IJ troops continued to fly out even after the invasion landings. No unit will have to be repurchased. Instead they'll move to the rear to rebuild.

The I-178 adds to her totals knocking out the crippled escorting PF boat on the 5th , while the I-176 finishes off LST-350 with a surface gunnery display. [8D]

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]BURMA: [/font] The big army is still sitting next to Magwe. No more movement along the Arakan either.

[font="Trebuchet MS"]
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR June 1, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sub attack near Jaluit at 133,119

Japanese Ships
xAKL Nichiryo Maru, Shell hits 10

Allied Ships
SS Bream, hits 4, on fire

SS Bream attacking on the surface

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR June 3, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Night Naval bombardment of Ponape at 119,113 - Coastal Guns Fire Back!

113 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Allied Ships
BB Mississippi, Shell hits 2
BB Tennessee
CLAA Oakland, Shell hits 2
CLAA Juneau, Shell hits 1

Japanese ground losses:
171 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 4 destroyed, 12 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 2 disabled

Airbase hits 3
Airbase supply hits 4
Runway hits 11
Port hits 4

OS2U-3 Kingfisher acting as spotter for BB Mississippi

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Invasion action off Ponape (119,113)
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

24 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Allied Ships
LST-42
DE Griswold
DE Crouter
LST-86, Shell hits 3
LST-70, Shell hits 3, on fire
LST-75

14cm 3YT CD Gun Battery engaging LST-42 at 4,000 yards

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Invasion action off Ponape (119,113) - Coastal Guns Fire Back!
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

307 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Allied Ships
CL Biloxi, Shell hits 16
CL Santa Fe, Shell hits 17
DD Trathen, Shell hits 9
DD Thatcher
DD Terry, Shell hits 1
DD Picking, Shell hits 11, on fire
DD Miller, Shell hits 4, on fire
APA Elmore
DD Walker

Japanese ground losses:
7 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
34 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

CL Biloxi firing at Ponape Naval Fortress
Ponape Naval Fortress firing at CL Biloxi

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Ponape (119,113)

TF 413 troops unloading over beach at Ponape, 119,113

Allied ground losses:
719 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 79 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 181 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 90 (0 destroyed, 90 disabled)
Vehicles lost 52 (1 destroyed, 51 disabled)

10 troops of a US Cmbt Eng Sqd 44 lost from landing craft during unload of 93rd Infantry Div /3
13 troops of a USA Rifle Squad 44 accidentally lost during unload of 93rd Infantry Div
Motorized Support lost in surf during unload of 233rd USN Base Force /6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Invasion action off Ponape (119,113)
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

50 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Allied Ships
xAP Sarpedonia, Shell hits 5, on fire, heavy damage
PF Van Buren
LCI-525
LCI-529
LCI-523
LCI-527

Allied ground losses:
11 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

PF Van Buren firing to suppress enemy battery at 7,000 yards

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Invasion action off Ponape (119,113) - Coastal Guns Fire Back!
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

90 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Allied Ships
DD Monssen, Shell hits 5
DD Grayson, Shell hits 4, on fire
DD Meredith, Shell hits 1, on fire
LST-27
LST-23, Shell hits 4, on fire
DD Laffey
LST-19
LST-21
LST-24

Ponape Naval Fortress firing at DD Monssen

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Ponape (119,113)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 2305 troops, 41 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 94

Defending force 24532 troops, 426 guns, 537 vehicles, Assault Value = 430

Japanese ground losses:
23 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 1 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
15 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
51st Naval Guard Unit
Ponape Naval Fortress
7th JNAF Coy
Maloelap Base Force
Majuro Base Force

Defending units:
102nd(Sep) Infantry Rgt /4
93rd Infantry Div /6
Eleventh USAAF EAB /4
51st Marine Defense Battalion
186th USAAF Base Force
233rd USN Base Force
227th USN Base Force /1
611th Coast AA Regiment
48th Aviation Base Force
157th USA Base Force /1

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR June 4, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Submarine attack near Ponape at 119,113

Japanese Ships
SS I-178

Allied Ships
xAP Sarpedonia, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage

Allied ground losses:
22 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

xAP Sarpedonia is sighted by SS I-178
SS I-178 launches 6 torpedoes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Invasion Support action off Ponape (119,113)
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

45 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Allied Ships
xAP Zealandia, Shell hits 18, heavy fires, heavy damage
LCI-535
LCI-533
PF Van Buren
LCI-523
LCI-529
LCI-527

Allied ground losses:
56 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 6 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

12.7cm 3YT DP Gun Battery engaging xAP Zealandia at 5,000 yards

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Invasion Support action off Ponape (119,113)
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

42 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Allied Ships
xAP Zealandia, Shell hits 17, heavy fires, heavy damage
LCI-533
LCI-529
LCI-527
LCI-525
PF Van Buren
LCI-523

Allied ground losses:
34 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

14cm 3YT CD Gun Battery engaging xAP Zealandia at 3,000 yards

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Ponape at 119,113

Weather in hex: Partial cloud

Raid detected at 101 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 26 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 54
D4Y1 Judy x 31
Ki-43-IIIa Oscar x 29

Japanese aircraft losses
D4Y1 Judy: 1 damaged
D4Y1 Judy: 1 destroyed by flak

Allied Ships
PF Van Buren, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
LST-223, Bomb hits 2, heavy fires, heavy damage
LCI-529, Bomb hits 1, and is sunk
LST-335
LCI-525, Bomb hits 1, and is sunk
LST-82
xAP Macdhui, Bomb hits 1, on fire

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 500 kg SAP Bomb
23 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 500 kg SAP Bomb
5 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 500 kg SAP Bomb

Heavy smoke from fires obscuring LST-223
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring PF Van Buren

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Ponape at 118,115

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid spotted at 8 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 2 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D4Y3 Judy x 30

No Japanese losses

Allied Ships
LST-70, Bomb hits 4, and is sunk
LST-23, Bomb hits 7, and is sunk

Allied ground losses:
193 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 10 destroyed, 32 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x D4Y3 Judy releasing from 3000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 500 kg SAP Bomb
7 x D4Y3 Judy releasing from 1000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 500 kg SAP Bomb
17 x D4Y3 Judy releasing from 10000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 500 kg SAP Bomb

Heavy smoke from fires obscuring LST-70
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring LST-23

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Invasion Support action off Ponape (119,113)
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

10 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Allied Ships
xAP Macdhui, Shell hits 4, heavy fires
LST-350
LCI-535
LCI-533
LCI-527
LCI-523

14cm 3YT CD Gun Battery engaging xAP Macdhui at 8,000 yards
12.7cm 3YT DP Gun Battery engaging xAP Macdhui at 8,000 yards
LST-350 fired at enemy troops
LCI-535 fired at enemy troops
LCI-533 fired at enemy troops


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR June 5, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Submarine attack near Ponape at 119,113

Japanese Ships
SS I-178

Allied Ships
PF Van Buren, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage

PF Van Buren is sighted by SS I-178
SS I-178 launches 6 torpedoes at PF Van Buren

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Ponape at 119,113

Japanese Ships
SS I-176

Allied Ships
LST-350, Shell hits 9, heavy fires, heavy damage

LST-350 is sighted by SS I-176
SS I-176 attacking LST-350 on the surface
SS I-176 low on gun ammo, Akazawa, Shizuo breaks off surface engagement and submerges

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Ponape (119,113)

Allied Deliberate attack

Attacking force 15400 troops, 294 guns, 253 vehicles, Assault Value = 463

Defending force 2554 troops, 31 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 23

Allied adjusted assault: 272

Japanese adjusted defense: 13

Allied assault odds: 20 to 1 (fort level 3)

Allied forces CAPTURE Ponape !!!

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), forts(+), experience(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
763 casualties reported
Squads: 14 destroyed, 8 disabled
Non Combat: 5 destroyed, 77 disabled
Engineers: 4 destroyed, 1 disabled
Guns lost 14 (14 destroyed, 0 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
18 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
102nd(Sep) Infantry Regiment
93rd Infantry Division
Eleventh USAAF Engineer Aviation Battalion
51st Marine Defense Battalion
611th Coast AA Regiment
233rd USN Base Force
157th USA Base Force
227th USN Base Force
186th USAAF Base Force
48th Aviation Base Force

Defending units:
51st Naval Guard Unit
Ponape Naval Fortress
Maloelap Base Force
Majuro Base Force

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[/font]

---

[font="Trebuchet MS"] The lack of air support here is interesting, although it looked like some CVEs accompanied the day 1 landings. I like the Allied tentativeness. This is essentially clean up, and now come the more difficult and defended targets. True will not be easy if he chooses that route, and anything beyond will both engage the KB and LBA, plus leave any damaged ships and troops farther from port from LBA cover. [/font]

---

Yes was surprised he had no LRCAP to protect his landings. he was naked and paid a heavy priced in shipping for it.

ORIGINAL: Bif1961

Yes was surprised he had no LRCAP to protect his landings. he was naked and paid a heavy priced in shipping for it.

I wish it were heavier, but the Allies can get the APA/AKA in and out in a day, so for this kind of "bare" target, there is no way to get to them. Still, bit by bit, the sinking and losses accumulate and the territory gained is minimally relevant in June 44. In my previous long PBEM though, this was the time when the Allies began to be able to move in multiple fronts and really push hard and fast. This time the prep is slightly better, so hopefully the progress can be delayed.

ORIGINAL: obvert

ORIGINAL: Bif1961

Yes was surprised he had no LRCAP to protect his landings. he was naked and paid a heavy priced in shipping for it.

I wish it were heavier, but the Allies can get the APA/AKA in and out in a day, so for this kind of "bare" target, there is no way to get to them. Still, bit by bit, the sinking and losses accumulate and the territory gained is minimally relevant in June 44. In my previous long PBEM though, this was the time when the Allies began to be able to move in multiple fronts and really push hard and fast. This time the prep is slightly better, so hopefully the progress can be delayed.

It isn't until about fall, IMO. The APAs arrive about every other day at that point.

[font="Times New Roman"]June 8-13, 1944[/font]

---

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]STRAT BOMBING: [/font] The first major strategic bombing of the campaign took place on the 12th at Bangkok. I had 18 J7N1-S Irvings NF flying day CAP there, which were target practice for B-17E gunners. The 4Es took a good dozen points off of the HI here and some more off of the refinery. This serves notice at some expense that I have to start covering rear bases effectively. Franks and Ki-100 move in. A group is being allocated to both Saigon and Georgetown, and one more will go to Haiphong, as I actually do need those resources and want to avoid losing the strat VPs.

On the other side of the world Babo had all oil knocked out by 4E. Here we go. Boela is next in range. I've not put cover up there yet but will in the next week, although it's closer to the bigger base at Ambon, and thus a lot more risky.

In mid-July the big IJN cull happens with over 30 groups withdrawing and only 12 or so arriving to replace them. More do come back in gradually, but the IJAAF will have to bear the brunt of what will be a strengthening Allied air campaign soon. I'll suspend some training and move in groups this months to begin replacing IJN groups that will withdraw. Luckily pools are strong and the Ki-84b arrives in late July!!

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]SUBS: [/font] The I-178 fresh off of its several successes makes a move too far and strays into the sonar range of Allied DEs. She manages to evade after several direct hits but should get back to Babeldaob for repairs. I've luckily now moved the Dublon ARD to Babs and this is allowing a good amount of local repair to be done far enough back to avoid 4E strikes (for now).

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]SW PAC: [/font] The Allies resume sporadic bombing of forward North New Guinea bases at Weak, Daggua and Aitape. I'll not attempt LR CAP or any activities here for a while. There will be a surprise move at some point to interdict, but I want the Allies to get comfortable attacking "soft" targets, then have the surprise come when it looks close to a big move forward.

Hopefully this can serve to destabilise plans and again, delay. Sqz tends to comment that my style is "aggressive," so I'll attempt to first confuse by not acting on some possible threats, then only intermittently acting even to severe threats. I want to become unpredictable and thus make the Allies prepare for anything as well as negating some of the "traps" he'll undoubtedly lay. Hopefully I can get good search and recon in place so that anything really major can be spotted reliably with a day's notice.

The Allied 4Es try a night strike on Hollandia but from 15k. That won't do much, but if he does get down to 4-6k these could cause some real damage accompanied by daytime sweeps/strikes. Something to look out for.

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]BURMA: [/font] A strike on Prome gave a small indication of what our defences look like there. The Allies sent in 120+ B-24J, but didn't close the fields and took several losses and lots damaged to flak. [:)] I'm not using this airfield currently so no big deal. Worse would be strikes against troops in the clear hex, but hopefully the level 6 forts and flak plus occasional LR CAP can help here.

Sent in some fast Es to Akyab to interdict small shipping there. They got in, did their business, sank a small TF, then E Hiyodori got nailed by a mine and sank. [:(]

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]OZ: [/font] The Allies continue to hit Gove regularly with 2E and once struck the fields at Taberfane with 4Es. This was a good strike and closed the fields, but nothing is there, so fairly ineffectual strategically (as far as I know now, anyway).

[font="Trebuchet MS"]
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR June 11, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ASW attack near Ponape at 119,114

Japanese Ships
SS I-178, hits 16, heavy damage

Allied Ships
DE Baron
DE Weaver

SS I-178 is located by DE Baron
I-178 diving deep ....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR June12, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Morning Air attack on Prome , at 55,50

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid detected at 55 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 18 minutes

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 26
P-40N5 Warhawk x 24

Allied aircraft losses
B-24J Liberator: 5 damaged
B-24J Liberator: 1 destroyed by flak

Airbase hits 1
Airbase supply hits 2
Runway hits 3

Aircraft Attacking:
15 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 16000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
11 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 16000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Bangkok , at 56,62

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 36 NM, estimated altitude 17,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 11 minutes

Japanese aircraft
J1N1-S Irving x 18

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 33

Japanese aircraft losses
J1N1-S Irving: 3 destroyed

No Allied losses

Heavy Industry hits 2
Refinery hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
11 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 12000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
11 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 12000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
11 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 12000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-901 Hikotai with J1N1-S Irving (3 airborne, 8 on standby, 7 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 10000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Bangkok , at 56,62

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 36 NM, estimated altitude 18,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 11 minutes

Japanese aircraft
J1N1-S Irving x 5

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 11

Japanese aircraft losses
J1N1-S Irving: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses


Aircraft Attacking:
11 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 12000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-901 Hikotai with J1N1-S Irving (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 1 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 10000 and 12000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 38 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Babo , at 83,111

Weather in hex: Partial cloud

Raid detected at 80 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 27 minutes

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 34

No Allied losses

Oil hits 7

Aircraft Attacking:
10 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 12000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR June13, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Night Time Surface Combat, near Ramree Island at 54,48, Range 10,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
E Shimakaze
E Nadakaze
E Tsuga
E Hiyodori

Allied Ships
xAK Admiral Chase, Shell hits 47, Torpedo hits 1, and is sunk
xAK Barala, Shell hits 4, Torpedo hits 2, and is sunk
AM Konkan, Shell hits 5, and is sunk

Japanese Ships Reported to be Approaching!
Allied TF begins to get underway

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TF 45 encounters mine field at Ramree Island (54,48)

Japanese Ships
E Hiyodori, Mine hits 1, on fire, heavy damage

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[/font]

---

[font="Trebuchet MS"]So at least these first strat bombing strikes only knocked off 11 HI and 1 Refinery point. I've got to start calculating distances to know industrial targets now and thinking about B-29 range. I know they're on map and should be in theatre somewhere. [/font]

---

[font="Times New Roman"]R & D[/font]

---

The Sam finally started researching!! Just in time, and within a few months will also get the engine bonus. Still a long way off, but I predict by 3/45 I could have some. That is probably too late for the KB, but still good for LBA.

Other planes arriving within a month or two include the Ki-102b to upgrade the three FB groups, the final version of the Jack, the J2M5, and the final Oscar IV. The Jack is a very good defensive plane, and the Oscar will help with good range and CL 20mm canons for both interception and escort. I use these a lot with IJN strike planes as well as the 2E TB Peggys. Pilots are ready now so these will be introduced soon!!
[:)]

[font="Times New Roman"]June 14-18, 1944[/font]

---

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]SW PAC: [/font] Gove is invaded. A small force but they take the base easily. Not much was left there, and remaining naval guard troops retreat and are picked up by flying boat transports. This indicates the Allies are probably interested in continuing here by sea, which also must mean there isn't enough supply to mount an offensive on Darwin by land.

Liberators hit Taberfane and Aru Island, closing the fields.

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]BURMA: [/font] The big stack is moving forward toward the defensive hex between Prome and Toungoo. There are 2k AV dug in. A few of the divisions were split and have built 4 forts. He'd need more than double the AV to begin to budge this spot. At Toungou I've only got 1100 AV now, but there is a tank division one hex out and another in strat mode at Moulmein, plus a Thai division in strat mode. Those can move either to Toungou or Prome depending on which way things develop. There are a few more brigades to move around if needed. Also, the brigades that combine to divisions just arrived and are en route to the area. So in 1-2 weeks there will be three more (weaker) divisions to add to the fray. I'll shift one back toward the coast to cover the rear, and a few more brigades are still heading for Malaysia.

The next troops to be bought out are three cheaper divisions; one tank division from China and two understrength divisions from the Home Islands. I'll be able to get all three in the next two months. They'll head to Singers as a reserve for the DEI.

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]CENT PAC: [/font] Kusaie is invaded by one USMC Defensive Battalion. For a day. Then they bug out having found a nearly complete naval guard here. I sent some DBs into the area which could have done some business against the uncovered TF here, but they were out of range by the day phase.

There has been shipping to recently conquered Ponape, so I added a sweep of Georges and set the range to hit em. They flew. All worked, we sunk an AM and four xAKL. So essentially a VP loss after taking the lost escorts into the equation. This is the peril for the Japanese in the endgame. Even good outcomes can be counter productive.
[font="Trebuchet MS"]
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR June 16, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amphibious Assault at Kusaie Island (125,118)

TF 160 troops unloading over beach at Kusaie Island, 125,118

Allied ground losses:
66 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 11 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 24 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 14 (0 destroyed, 14 disabled)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Kusaie Island (125,118)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1831 troops, 19 guns, 2 vehicles, Assault Value = 62

Defending force 1143 troops, 51 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 20

Assaulting units:
Yokosuka 5th SNLF

Defending units:
12th Marine Defense Battalion

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR June 18, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Morning Air attack on Ponape , at 119,113

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid detected at 177 NM, estimated altitude 35,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 52 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K2-J George x 27

Allied aircraft
F4U-1A Corsair x 32

Japanese aircraft losses
N1K2-J George: 3 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
F4U-1A Corsair: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
15 x N1K2-J George sweeping at 31000 feet *

CAP engaged:
VMF-322 with F4U-1A Corsair (4 airborne, 11 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 31000 , scrambling fighters between 24000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
VMF-441 with F4U-1A Corsair (4 airborne, 11 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 31000 , scrambling fighters between 25000 and 36900.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on TF, near Ponape at 119,113

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid detected at 91 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 23 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D4Y1 Judy x 21
Ki-43-IIIa Oscar x 19

Allied aircraft
F4U-1A Corsair x 27

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-43-IIIa Oscar: 8 destroyed

No Allied losses

Allied Ships
AM Triumph, Bomb hits 2, and is sunk
xAKL Argus, Bomb hits 3, heavy fires, heavy damage
xAKL Karuah, Bomb hits 2, and is sunk
xAKL Mortlake Bank, Bomb hits 2, and is sunk
xAKL Kindur, Bomb hits 3, and is sunk

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 500 kg SAP Bomb
5 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 500 kg SAP Bomb
12 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 500 kg SAP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-441 with F4U-1A Corsair (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(12 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
9 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 31000 , scrambling fighters between 35000 and 36900.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 22 minutes
VMF-322 with F4U-1A Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(15 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
11 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 31000 , scrambling fighters between 34000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes

Heavy smoke from fires obscuring AM Triumph
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring xAKL Argus
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring xAKL Mortlake Bank
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring xAKL Kindur

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[/font]

---

[font="Trebuchet MS"]Air losses. [/font]

---

[font="Times New Roman"]June 19-21, 1944[/font]

---

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]SW PAC: [/font] Things are afoot in North New Guinea. The Allies land at Wewak and Dagua and take both bases on the 21st. These had been essentially left as small speed bumps with minimal supply and partial units (which will now rebuild behind the lines).

The real action took place in the air. I had coincidentally added some bombers to Hollandia the turn before, but these were LR Nells aimed at Cooktown, where recon had shown several disbanded ships and no CAP. The planes didn't fly so I sent them to Darwin in order to move full CAP back in to Hollandia. Just in time. [:)]

Sqz may have been aware the bombers were here, but either way, he probably thought I'd try for the invasion forces on day 2 at Wewak/Dagua. He set a massive Allied 4E force to strike Hollandia fields. Luckily for the IJ two things worked in our favour. I had decided to set only one CL led surface force to aim for the landings, and it's LR CAP flew from Vanaimo (where I have an actively supplied level 2 field and only usually base Norm FPs for deep search missions. Secondly, the sweeps came in after the bombing missions. I'm sure he's hopping mad, but it's about the third time the same thing has happened. I think he's in a rush, and doesn't want to work the base for days with sweeps before sending the beasts in. This plays to the favour of the defending force, as even if the sweeps connected, on day 1 there are just too many fighters available.

Needless to say it was carnage for the 4Es and escorts. Over 65 4Es reported lost and Hellcats also took a beating with about 44 downed. The totals for the day are decidedly in favour of the IJ units, but it the groups are shattered for the next day. I suspect only sweeps and made the decision to keep the CAP up with support from Sarmi using LR CAP. We'll see how it goes.

The IJN surface forces swung and missed, then got pummelled from the air by DBs. I made a mistake with the LR CAP here and didn't reset the Jacks to DB altitudes, so the first strikes got through untouched. We lose the Kitakami and the Oi is given light damage and will retire with the 6 DDs escorting. The Jacks finally got to the escorts and some DBs, so felt better about the afternoon.

This kind of day can set the Allies back a bit. It may also give a few moments to resupply. I've got both supply and fuel en route. Need to get the MTBs refuelled.

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]BURMA: [/font] The large stack tries to confuse with multiple movement indicators. I'l zoom in and examine in a further post. Need some advice there.
[font="Trebuchet MS"]
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR June 20, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amphibious Assault at Dagua (95,119)

TF 201 troops unloading over beach at Dagua, 95,119

Allied ground losses:
25 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 54 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 3 (0 destroyed, 3 disabled)
Vehicles lost 24 (0 destroyed, 24 disabled)

15 Support troops accidentally lost during unload of 177th USAAF Base Force

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR June 21, 44
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Morning Air attack on TF, near Wewak at 96,119

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 55 NM, estimated altitude 17,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 24 minutes

Japanese aircraft
J2M3 Jack x 1

Allied aircraft
P-38J Lightning x 23
F6F-3 Hellcat x 14
SB2U-3 Vindicator x 15

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
SB2U-3 Vindicator: 1 damaged

Japanese Ships
CL Kinu
CL Yura
CL Kitakami, Bomb hits 2, heavy fires

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x SB2U-3 Vindicator releasing from 4000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 1000 lb SAP Bomb
8 x SB2U-3 Vindicator releasing from 3000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 1000 lb SAP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-602 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 33000 , scrambling fighters to 6000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 74 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 80 NM, estimated altitude 19,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 27 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 54
J2M3 Jack x 36
N1K2-J George x 42
Ki-84a Frank x 47
Ki-100-I Tony x 49

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 24
B-24D1 Liberator x 57
B-24J Liberator x 8
P-38J Lightning x 22
F6F-3 Hellcat x 31

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M8 Zero: 4 destroyed
J2M3 Jack: 2 destroyed
N1K2-J George: 1 destroyed
Ki-84a Frank: 1 damaged
Ki-100-I Tony: 4 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D Liberator: 7 damaged
B-24D Liberator: 1 destroyed by flak
B-24D1 Liberator: 7 destroyed, 21 damaged
B-24J Liberator: 1 destroyed, 1 damaged
F6F-3 Hellcat: 7 destroyed

Airbase hits 4
Airbase supply hits 2
Runway hits 11

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 45 NM, estimated altitude 17,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 33
J2M3 Jack x 31
N1K2-J George x 41
Ki-84a Frank x 38
Ki-100-I Tony x 39

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 8
P-38J Lightning x 15
F6F-3 Hellcat x 32

Japanese aircraft losses
J2M3 Jack: 1 destroyed
N1K2-J George: 1 destroyed
Ki-84a Frank: 1 destroyed
Ki-100-I Tony: 3 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D1 Liberator: 3 destroyed, 2 damaged
B-24D1 Liberator: 1 destroyed by flak
F6F-3 Hellcat: 6 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 80 NM, estimated altitude 22,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 27 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 24
J2M3 Jack x 25
N1K2-J George x 34
Ki-84a Frank x 28
Ki-100-I Tony x 27

Allied aircraft
Beaufighter X x 1
B-24D Liberator x 6
B-24D1 Liberator x 7
B-24J Liberator x 49
P-38J Lightning x 15
F6F-3 Hellcat x 11

Japanese aircraft losses
J2M3 Jack: 1 destroyed
N1K2-J George: 1 destroyed
Ki-100-I Tony: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
Beaufighter X: 1 destroyed
B-24D Liberator: 1 damaged
B-24D1 Liberator: 1 damaged
B-24J Liberator: 3 destroyed, 14 damaged
P-38J Lightning: 5 destroyed
F6F-3 Hellcat: 3 destroyed

Airbase hits 3
Airbase supply hits 1
Runway hits 6

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 79 NM, estimated altitude 32,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 23 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K2-J George x 2
Ki-100-I Tony x 2

Allied aircraft
P-47D25 Thunderbolt x 68

Japanese aircraft losses
N1K2-J George: 1 destroyed
Ki-100-I Tony: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
23 x P-47D25 Thunderbolt sweeping at 31000 feet *
21 x P-47D25 Thunderbolt sweeping at 31000 feet *
21 x P-47D25 Thunderbolt sweeping at 31000 feet *

CAP engaged:
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 26000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 23 minutes
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 22000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Wewak at 96,119

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid detected at 33 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
J2M3 Jack x 8

Allied aircraft
F6F-3 Hellcat x 28
SB2U-3 Vindicator x 14

Japanese aircraft losses
J2M3 Jack: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
F6F-3 Hellcat: 4 destroyed
SB2U-3 Vindicator: 1 damaged

Japanese Ships
CL Oi, Bomb hits 2, on fire
DD Hibiki
DD Umikaze

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x SB2U-3 Vindicator releasing from 4000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
4 x SB2U-3 Vindicator releasing from 3000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
4 x SB2U-3 Vindicator releasing from 2000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-602 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (8 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 33000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 33000.
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Wewak at 96,119

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid detected at 67 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 26 minutes

Japanese aircraft
J2M3 Jack x 4

Allied aircraft
SBD-3 Dauntless x 15

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
SBD-3 Dauntless: 2 destroyed, 1 damaged

Japanese Ships
DD Akebono, Bomb hits 1
CL Kitakami, Bomb hits 1, heavy fires, heavy damage

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 1000 lb SAP Bomb
5 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 1000 lb SAP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-602 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 33000 , scrambling fighters to 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 98 minutes

Heavy smoke from fires obscuring CL Kitakami


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Wewak (96,119)

Allied Deliberate attack

Attacking force 2234 troops, 34 guns, 11 vehicles, Assault Value = 115

Defending force 1303 troops, 6 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 14

Allied adjusted assault: 28

Japanese adjusted defense: 1

Allied assault odds: 28 to 1 (fort level 3)

Allied forces CAPTURE Wewak !!!

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), disruption(-), preparation(-), morale(-)
experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker: leaders(-), fatigue(-)

Japanese ground losses:
516 casualties reported
Squads: 24 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 30 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Units retreated 3

Defeated Japanese Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
30th Australian Brigade

Defending units:
Nanking Naval Guard Unit
14th Nav Gd /2
53rd JNAF AF Unit /1

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Dagua (95,119)

Allied Deliberate attack

Attacking force 4740 troops, 60 guns, 43 vehicles, Assault Value = 167

Defending force 1029 troops, 6 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 5

Allied engineers reduce fortifications to 2

Allied adjusted assault: 62

Japanese adjusted defense: 5

Allied assault odds: 12 to 1 (fort level 2)

Allied forces CAPTURE Dagua !!!

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), forts(+), preparation(-), fatigue(-), morale(-)
experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
237 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 21 destroyed, 5 disabled
Engineers: 4 destroyed, 0 disabled
Units retreated 3

Defeated Japanese Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
3rd Australian Brigade
177th USAAF Base Force
76th Coast AA Regiment
10th USN Naval Construction Battalion

Defending units:
4th JAAF AF Bn /2
61st JNAF AF Unit
43rd JNAF AF Unit /1
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[/font]

---

[font="Trebuchet MS"]This series kind of gives an idea of what happened in the first major strike on the 21st. The IJ fighters also got to the bombers after their runs to knock down a few more. [/font]

---

ORIGINAL: obvert

[font="Times New Roman"]June 1-7, 1944[/font]

---

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]SUBS: [/font] We have some action!

A very fun combat on June 1 between USS Bream and xAKL Nichiryo Maru. The Bream attacked on the surface, didn't fire torpedoes, and paid a price by taking 4 direct hits and disengaging due to ongoing fires. [:D] The Japanese steamer took 10 hits but has only 36 system and minor float damage, and she'll limp back toward Marcus Island to deposit the supply extracted form Wotje.

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]SW PAC: [/font] The Allies invade Ponape!! A large assault hits the base, which has been slowly decommissioned, and which I consider well behind the front lines these days. The CD guns are still there though, and I welcome the opportunity to get them into play! The Allied support ships take most of the punishment and leave the most important transports untouched. A few LST and xAP take some heavier damage and the I-178 moves in fro Truk to likely finish off xAP Sarpendonia with troops still aboard. [:)]

One Judy strike hits the remaining ships on day 2 as well, taking out half of a small TF. Better than nothing and a small overall VP gain since many IJ troops continued to fly out even after the invasion landings. No unit will have to be repurchased. Instead they'll move to the rear to rebuild.

The I-178 adds to her totals knocking out the crippled escorting PF boat on the 5th , while the I-176 finishes off LST-350 with a surface gunnery display. [8D]

[font="Microsoft Sans Serif"]BURMA: [/font] The big army is still sitting next to Magwe. No more movement along the Arakan either.

[font="Trebuchet MS"]
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Catching up. A critical mistake in invading Ponape in such a way. Instead of using his BBs for a mostly useless bombardment run, he should have embedded one in each of the Amphibious TFs. They would have drawn the bulk of the defensive gunfire as well as adding a ton of suppression. The CDs guns would have bounced off them and in exchange for a bit of system damage his remaining ships would have suffered very little harm. This was a rookie mistake. Squeeze should know better. The air attacks also would have mostly targeted the BBs and were unlikely to really hurt a BB. It is what those old BBs are for, to take a few hits for the team.

Better yet, just don't do the invasion. I did not see any real necessity for it.

I agree on all counts.

I think he's both up against a sense he needs to catch up and feeling like he has to do something to show progress, understand my reactions, and make some step toward the more important goals. This move does isolate Truk, but by now he should be able to neutralise the base with 4Es as well, I'd think. He does seem wary of my Low CAP settings.

ORIGINAL: obvert

I agree on all counts.

I think he's both up against a sense he needs to catch up and feeling like he has to do something to show progress, understand my reactions, and make some step toward the more important goals. This move does isolate Truk, but by now he should be able to neutralise the base with 4Es as well, I'd think. He does seem wary of my Low CAP settings.

But now he doesn't have to. There's something to be said for having territory for the sake of territory. Ponape will help him a bunch later simply because you won't have it.

ORIGINAL: Lokasenna

ORIGINAL: obvert

I agree on all counts.

I think he's both up against a sense he needs to catch up and feeling like he has to do something to show progress, understand my reactions, and make some step toward the more important goals. This move does isolate Truk, but by now he should be able to neutralise the base with 4Es as well, I'd think. He does seem wary of my Low CAP settings.

But now he doesn't have to. There's something to be said for having territory for the sake of territory. Ponape will help him a bunch later simply because you won't have it.

Yep. No doubt it can help. He can simply LR CAP and sweep it now, let it wither on the vine. If he decides to invade Truk too I would have some raised eyebrows.

[font="Times New Roman"]BURMA[/font]

---

Out East the Allies are on the move, but their moves are a bit confusing. As you can see in the screenshot detail, the big 285k troop stack is sitting one hex from my dug in block, but it's showing three sets of movement. He wants me to react, so I'm showing reaction, but preparing for all possibilities. In 3-4 more days I'll have another tank division in the blocking hex, bringing AV totals to 2.5k. I'll have 1.5k AV in Toungou. There is still 1.7k AV in Taung Gyi with level 6 forts in x3. If I see numbers go up there I have another brigade one hex out that can shift in quickly. That will be a tough nut if he strikes there.

Reinforcements are on the way and just now passing Singers that will make three brigades into mediocre divisions. All in reserve though, so that is positive.

More are also heading to Malaya and Sumatra to hold in case of bypassing Burma. He still has major troops in the central valley and along the Arakan though, so a bypass would have to use other forces, and thus would lack some ability to reinforce even if the first landings were successful.

Let me know if you have ideas about the multiple move possibilities here. I am guessing by the big move bar pointing toward the Toungou road that the main stack is going that direction. If it does I'll need to send more troops in quickly to Toungou. I'm getting them in position now, but since this just started a few days ago, there is some time.

No. The top movement dot simply means that the "top" unit in the stack is moving that way. So from this you know that he is moving in 3 directions, but not how many units in which direction. Just that at least 1 is moving to the east and it's the

I'm not really sure why he's moving that way at all, because he's not in danger of being cut off by your forces in this position.

ORIGINAL: Lokasenna

ORIGINAL: obvert

I agree on all counts.

I think he's both up against a sense he needs to catch up and feeling like he has to do something to show progress, understand my reactions, and make some step toward the more important goals. This move does isolate Truk, but by now he should be able to neutralise the base with 4Es as well, I'd think. He does seem wary of my Low CAP settings.

But now he doesn't have to. There's something to be said for having territory for the sake of territory. Ponape will help him a bunch later simply because you won't have it.

Well, true. But the Allies need not take every base. As an Allied player I really try to minimize the need. A lot depends on the sea power (carriers that they have vs Japan at any stage) And a well defended base with good CD units demands respect. Japan has so few good CD units that it is pretty easy to avoid them. Ponape is a potential level 4 port and level 8 air field. Nice if you can take it easily but otherwise there are other options. The arrival of LSTs in number make even zero port but 8 AF bases very attractive for the Allies.