I am using the latest version of the game (4.4.263).
In each case, I had given an attack order, and specified a FUP in what I hoped was the closest “safe” location.
I did make a few saves, including one which caught the HQ in the act
The attached screenshot does show a couple of things (if it uploaded correctly):
“X” HQ safe to the west after routing SW of the West bridge because it had its nose way too close to the action during the attack.
“Z” HQ merrily marching up the road towards Malmedy, shortly before it ran a picket of Allied forces salivating at the opportunity to blast away at it!
Both HQ eventually reorganized, and I regained all 3 objectives, but I stopped gaining VP for a while as the objectives were lost for about half a day.
My strategy here was for the Z regiment to move through the battlegroup holding the West bridge and join the two companies fighting for their lives at Malmedy Bridge. I envisioned the HQ and mortar hanging out in the treeline near Cligneval, rather than abruptly deciding to scoot after the attacking brigades through the hornet's nest of Allied troops east of the West Bridge!
Would that even be possible? Could the HQ command reasonably from Cligneval? I know the mortar unit could reach from there! Next time I will detach the mortars prior to the attack order.
So if I am reading the responses (and linked post) correctly, then (in similar cases) once the battle for the objective appears won, I should detach the battle group from HQ (or order each unit in the group individually for more granular control) and order it to defend, issue a move order with carefully selected waypoints to HQ, then regroup them and issue a defend order with in situ formation. Does that sound correct?
In this scenario, early on I could have moved X HQ and the mortar unit across the West Bridge and down to Waverumont. But what about Z HQ? If I wanted its regiment to attack Malmedy bridge, would the HQ have had to plough through West Bridge during the Allied attack, or could it have been somehow made to stay put in Cligneval (and would it be effective commanding from there)?
Thanks again for all of the amazing help! Looking forward to my next scenario
Scott