Days of Decision

[Von Rom]

Originally posted by Mogami
Hi, would it be impolite for me to ask you to send your game files to Mogami99@aol.com ? I would like to take an in depth look at the situation.

("it's not over till it's over" don't give up)

Hi Mogami

Many thanks for your kind offer. But let me see what I can do. I have been racking my brains over a new strategy, so let me see if I can still "pull this iron out of the fire."

Don't worry, I'm not giving up. . .

heh. . .

Cheers!

[mogami]

Greetings, I was not implying I was going to give advice. I just wish to look at the situation, I'll keep my thoughts to my self.
AAR's only give part of the picture.

[Von Rom]

Mogami: Hi I think the save game files (at 8mb), even when compressed, is more than my poor email can handle - heh. Otherwise, I would love to send you my saved game. . .

*********


General Von Rom's Headquarters

December 17, 1942

General Von Rom is standing in a large room facing the seated members of his operational staff.

Von Rom: Gentlemen. As you know, we have our backs to the wall. Our naval forces have been severely weakened. We have no carriers and we simply cannot stand toe-to-toe against the Japanese in capital ships.

Therefore, over the past several days I have taken a close look at the assets that are still in operation under my command. Having done this, I have formulated a plan that is both bold in conception AND dangerous in execution.

I have called this plan:

Operation Rattlesnake

The "Rattle" portion of this snake will be directed towards Shortland. This "Rattle" will be used to put the enemy on guard and to hold his attention.

The Japanese have been building up Shortland with supplies, troops and major warships in anticipation of a possible Allied invasion. We will NOT invade Shortland, but we will let the Japanese think that we are going to invade it. To that end, I have set-up 30 PT Boats that will be divided into three squadrons of 10 boats each. Their job will be to attack Shortland, and to harass and sink anything they can find. Needless to say, losses will be heavy among the men manning these craft.

I also intend to send half of our submarines to cover the waters around Shortland, and to sink anything that tries to either leave or enter its waters.

I have also directed the 30 Allied medium bombers on Lunga to bomb, without respite, the airfields and port facilities on Shortland.

Meanwhile, the "Venomous" or deadly portion of this snake will be directed to "biting" or securing our REAL objectives: Hopei and Finschafen on New Guinea, and Gasmata on New Britain. The capture of the bases on New Guinea will mean securing all of the southern half of the peninsula from the enemy. Capturing Gasmata means that we will hold the knife that points directly into the heart of the enemy's major bases. With Gasmata secure, Kavieng, Rabaul and Shortland will all be within striking distance of our medium bombers.

Yes, gentlemen, I intend to strike directly into the heart of enemy territory. On New Guinea, our land forces are currently 15 miles from Hopei and 45 miles from Finschafen. The objective of these land forces will be to capture both locations before December of this year.

As you know, the Japanese have been supplying Finschafen with troops and material for some time. To counter these moves, I have ordered that all fighter-bombers will be stationed at Buna, with orders to sink anything that approaches the waters around Finschafen. I have also directed the other half of our submarine force to patrol the waters around this port.

In addition, I have directed that 100 medium bombers stationed at Port Moresby will bomb the airfields and port facilities of Finschafen non-stop until these assets have been reduced to a burning rubble. These bombers will attack at altitudes of 2,000, 1,000 and 100 feet.

To capture Gasmata, located on the southern portion of New Britain, I have scraped together 10 transport ships that will carry fuel, supplies, and an invasion force consisting of strong elements of the 2nd and 3rd Marine Divisions. For escorts I can only provide a flotilla of 5 destroyers, 1 Patrol Gunboat, 3 Sub Chasers, and 4 PT Boats. Air protection will be minimal, with only 11 P-38G Lightnings flying cover above this invasion force. Needless to say, when the Japanese learn about these invasion ships, they will send all the air power at their disposal to sink them. I am expecting heavy casualties. This invasion fleet will wait at sea, just south-east of Gili Gili, until they receive word to steam towards Gasmata.

Finally, I have directed all 25 heavy bombers to attack Rabaul non-stop with the hope of suppressing and damaging as many enemy aircraft as possible.

Well, gentlemen, that is the plan. Operations are to begin immediately.

Let us go forward and display "uncommon valor".

Good luck.

[EricLarsen]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Mogami
Greetings, While I love your AAR I would suggest you stop being so French World War I about things. Operations in this game need a lot of planning and rushing into combat with tired troops worn out ships and aircrews is a recipe for disaster. Take your time, slow down. And send "Overkill" (the more you use, the less you lose

Mogami,
I couldn't have put it better. I see we are of the same mindset as far as liking overwhelming force, and using patience and persistence. I agree you really need to plan invasions out carefully, I even write out my tf's and what troops go on them before ever loading a single unit. Plus I make sure to know where the enemy carriers and surface tf's are so they don;t cause me undue problems. I've been playing a derivation of scenario 19 with double ship committment and I've just taken it slowly but surely since the IJN has more troops and planes than in scenario 17. So far I've only lost 8 small ships to over 185 ships for the AI IJN side by being careful, planning carefully, and applying overwhelming force to each invasion.
Eric Larsen

[EricLarsen]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Von Rom
Within a short time after this initial attack, the American task force scout planes spotted enemy surface ships. Japanese ships were everywhere!

In this naval action, the carrier Saratoga was lost, with all the planes she had carried. Many a brave sailor and airman went with her.

Von Rom,
Talk about sticking your head into the Lion's mouth! Not very good thinking sending one lone carrier up near Truk, that's just asking for trouble. While trading the Saratoga for the Kaga is ok since eventually you'll get more carriers, it will really put a damper on your ability to cover invasion landings. Just be careful that with your new "Rattlesnake" plan that you're not the one who ends up getting bit.<g> I guess it is fun to push the envelope, but I sure do like having 7 big carriers plus 3 CVE's and in 2 weeks 3 more CVL's. I now have two really nice fleets to back SWPAC and SOPAC complete with surface tf's. I can't wait to get them into action soon when I finally get my Shortland and Lae-Finshafen invasions rolling. Talk about rolling thunder!

After the AI abadoned Wau and Salamua by marching the troops to Lae I see the AI is now busy landing more troops at Salamua. Ah, more POW's and bomb fodder. I should be ready for my Shortland operation in about a month, around the end of August '43. Then my other SWPAC shoe should be ready to fall upon the Finschafen-Lae. I'm still debating about landing at Salamua first so I can use that point to then capture the 3 or 4 empty adjoing bases and seal off Lae from the overland supply route from Madang. Then I'll hit Finschafen so I seal off Lae from supplies coming from there before finally taking the center and the remainder of his force once they're isolated. I can't wait for this weekend to come since I'll be able to play, play. play.:p
Eric Larsen

[Von Rom]

======BREAKING NEWS======

Allied Troops Capture Hopei

December 20, 1942

This is the BBC:

Chris Wrinkle reporting:

"We have just received this important news from the South Pacific, on New Guinea.

At 0700 this morning (Australia time), after advancing 30 miles through terrible weather and jungle conditions, advance elements of the Australian 16th Brigade, the American 1st Marine Division, and the Marine Tank Brigade, engaged the Imperial Japanese forces at Hopei, New Guinea.

After hours of vicious hand-to-hand fighting, the Japanese were defeated, and have withdrawn into the jungle, falling back to Finschafen.

The victorious Australians and US Marines, dubbed by some as, "Von Rom's Jungle Rats", have taken control of Hopei. Transport ships are currently on the way to re-supply these tough, but tired soldiers.

When reached for comment, General Von Rom replied, "I'm proud of those boys. Now it's on to Finschafen. On to victory.'"

[Von Rom]

Originally posted by EricLarsen
Von Rom,
Talk about sticking your head into the Lion's mouth! Not very good thinking sending one lone carrier up near Truk, that's just asking for trouble. While trading the Saratoga for the Kaga is ok since eventually you'll get more carriers, it will really put a damper on your ability to cover invasion landings. Just be careful that with your new "Rattlesnake" plan that you're not the one who ends up getting bit.<g> I guess it is fun to push the envelop.

I can't wait for this weekend to come since I'll be able to play, play. play.:pEric Larsen

Eric: On previous occasions I have sent carriers near Truk and have been able to get away again, after sinking a few enemy ships. On this occasion (with the CV Saratoga) I was unlucky. Ahh, the fortunes of war.

You're right, I like to push the envelope and have some fun. By taking chances, I am able to see how far I can push my tactics and the troops under my command. Since I started my game I haven't had a single "dull" turn. It's been great fun

I never imagined planning invasion forces, and ferrying supplies to fighting troops, could be so exciting. Really edge-of-the-seat playing. . . heh. . .

[Von Rom]

======BREAKING NEWS======

Allied Troops Capture Finschafen

Thousands of Japanese Troops Defeated

December 27, 1942

This is the BBC:

Chris Wrinkle reporting:

"In a dramatic turn of events, Australian troops and US Marines have captured the vitally important Japanese base at Finschafen, on New Guinea.

As part of "Operation Rattlesnake", the earlier victory at Hopei, and now this victory at Finschafen, has placed the entire peninsula on New Guinea into Allied hands.

The Battle of Finschafen was dramatic. Subjected to 10 days of continuous bombing, the port and airfield became burning heaps of rubble. Fighter-bombers stationed at Buna sank many Japanese ships attempting to re-supply the base with fuel and troops.

But most dramatic of all were the efforts of "Von Rom's Jungle Rats". Low on food and material, but equipped with high morale and a fighting spirit, the tough and resilient Australians and US Marines marched 30 miles through some of the worst terrain in the South Pacific, fought a pitched battle at Hopei, and then marched another 30 miles through the same, unforgiving jungle, and, with little rest, fought a savage, and at times, vicious, battle, with the entrenched Japanese troops, at Finschafen.

Victory was total: thousands of Japanese soldiers were killed or have been captured.

When reached for comment, General Von Rom replied, "I knew my boys could do it. They are tough SOBs, and I'm sure proud to lead such great fighting men. I have kept my promise - I have taken Finschafen before December 31. Now, I want to send those boys my thanks.'"

[EricLarsen]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Von Rom
General Von Rom's Headquarters

December 17, 1942

General Von Rom is standing in a large room facing the seated members of his operational staff.

Von Rom: Gentlemen. As you know, we have our backs to the wall. Our naval forces have been severely weakened. We have no carriers and we simply cannot stand toe-to-toe against the Japanese in capital ships.

Therefore, over the past several days I have taken a close look at the assets that are still in operation under my command. Having done this, I have formulated a plan that is both bold in conception AND dangerous in execution.

I have called this plan:

Operation Rattlesnake


Well, gentlemen, that is the plan. Operations are to begin immediately.

Let us go forward and display "uncommon valor".

Good luck.

General Von Rom's HQ (post briefing):
After addressing his officers and informing them of his new offensive plan, "Operation Rattlesnake", General Von Rom felt on top of the world. His confidence in his men and their abilities was soaring.

Meanwhile back in the meeting room his disgruntled officers are quietly complaining about this latest foolhardy plan. "Old General Blood, Guts, and Glory is bent on getting us all killed" complained his aide-de-campe Colonel Frag. "Our blood, our guts, and his glory" retorted Major Frank. Too bad someone doesn't frag the old S.O.B. so we can get a new commander who doesn't squander our meager resources on operations that hang by a thread. KABOOM, a loud explosion is heard outside and the assembled officers rush outside to see what has caused such a tremendous explosion.

When they get outside they all see the mangled body of old General Von Rom lying about in bits and pieces, victim of a friendly fragging. The officers look around and start to ask each other, "who could have done this"???? Colonel Frag gives a little smirk and says, "Now gentlemen we can continue the war".

Watch Your Back!

Eric Larsen

[Von Rom]

======BREAKING NEWS======

US MARINES INVADE NEW BRITAIN

Battle for Gasmata a Total Victory

December 28, 1942

This is the BBC:

Chris Wrinkle reporting:

"At 0530 this morning, in a daring amphibious assault, powerful elements of the 2nd and 3rd Marine Divisions stormed ashore on the beaches of New Britain and secured the vital port and airfield at Gasmata.

Supported only by light naval forces, and deep in the heart of enemy territory, this invasion of New Britain was the final part of "Operation Rattlesnake": the bold plan to seize Hopei, Finschafen and now, Gasmata.

The Japanese did not allow this Allied invasion force to proceed unmolested. When alerted to the presence of the approaching ships, the Japanese unleashed wave-after-wave of violent air attacks in an effort to send them to a watery grave. A determined handful of American pilots fought bravely to protect the helpless ships and destroyed many Japanese Zeros and bombers. However, despite these heroic efforts, many enemy planes broke through this protective cover and attacked the impotent convoy. Several ships, including a destroyer, sub-chaser and tanker, were sunk.

In spite of the fury of these repeated enemy air attacks, the convoy reached its destination, and unloaded troops and supplies.

Against all odds, and called fool-hardy by some, this invasion and seizure of Gasmata, is being hailed by top military commanders as a complete and total victory. For the first time in the war, ALL of the major Japanese bases in the South Pacific will be within striking distance of Allied bombers. One military commander stated, "The seizure of Gasmata changes everything."

When reached for comment, General Von Rom exclaimed, "Now we have the enemy in our sights. With our left flank secure with the capture of Hopei and Finschafen, we can now concentrate on the build-up of the base at Gasmata. From this base we will rain down a terrible punishment upon the formerly secure bases and forces of the Imperial Japanese Empire. This latest victory is testimony to the quality, resilience, and fighting ability, of the soldiers in this theatre. Now, let us go on to victory."


Statistics To Date:

Ships Lost

Allied - 166

IJN - 226

Planes Lost

Allied - 1,429

IJN - 1,898

Score

Allied - 11,024

IJN - 10,015

[Von Rom]

======BREAKING NEWS======

US MARINES MARCH OVERLAND: SEIZE HOSKINS

More Invasions Planned

January 7, 1943

This is the BBC:

Chris Wrinkle reporting:

"Another dramatic event has taken place in the South Pacific. The 7th Marine Regiment, in a daring march through inhospitable terrain, has seized Hoskins, on New Britain, thus splitting the island in two, and effectively isolating the Japanese bases west of the Admiralty Islands.

When reached for comment, General Von Rom, declared: "This is only the beginning of a new wave of offensives in the South Pacific. Although 'Operation Rattlesnake' was a complete success, more operations are being planned. The Japanese were caught flat-footed with our latest offensives, and I do not intend to allow them to gain their balance. As I speak, dozens of medium bombers are hammering Sag Sag on New Britain and Saidor on New Guinea. I intend to seize these bases in the very near future. Give us the weapons and we will give you the victories.'"

[Von Rom]

Current Date: January 10, 1943

THE HUNT FOR BIG YAMATO

Or, how I stopped worrying, and learned to love bombardments

Alrighty then. . .

Ahem. . .

It seems that the Japanese have come into possession of not one, but four, count 'em, FOUR BATTLESHIPS, including the mighty YAMATO. Naturally, being a newly purchased item, the Japanese were anxious to try them out. . .

I learned of the Yamato's presence in the South Pacific, when it SLAMMED into Lunga with several other ships performing a bombardment mission. That ship hit so hard I thought all my planes stationed on Lunga were going to fall into the sea. . .

Not only that, but another BATTLESHIP bombardment Task Force has SLAMMED into Gasmata. Those big puppies can really do a number on convoy ships, barracks, newly-built latrines, beach chairs. . .

Ahem. . .

*cough*

Which brings me to the title of this post. Those battleships have got to go. Fortunately, Pearl just sent me three Escort Carriers (CVE), containing about 40 fighters and 50 bombers. Their sole job will be to seek out and destroy the YAMATO and any other battleship they can sink their grubby little torpedoes into. . .

Ahem. . .

Now I know how the British felt when they wanted to hunt down the Bismarck. . .

Those Japanese battleships are wrecking havoc. . .

Therefore my orders are: Those Japanese battleships will be hunted down and destroyed, no matter what the cost.

Come on YAMATO, I dare ya. . . :p

[EricLarsen]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Von Rom
I learned of the Yamato's presence in the South Pacific, when it SLAMMED into Lunga with several other ships performing a bombardment mission. That ship hit so hard I thought all my planes stationed on Lunga were going to fall into the sea. . .

Not only that, but another BATTLESHIP bombardment Task Force has SLAMMED into Gasmata. Those big puppies can really do a number on convoy ships, barracks, newly-built latrines, beach chairs. . .

Von Rom,
The Yamato and Musashi strike back! In my game I nailed both big super BB's when they were pounding Port Moresby. I managed to time it out right so that I caught them both on their return trip from PM when they were just south of Gili Gili. I had 6 carriers pounce on them and they went down fast under my furious air attack. I also nailed a few other BB's the same way because I knew I could depend upon the AI being predictable.

I bet you were sweating bullets when the mighty Yamato bombarded Lunga and probably messed up your nice air force there. Shame on you for not providing some naval cover there. Oh, that's right you've lost most of your ships already or they're severly damaged and limping back to Pearl. Be careful with those 3 CVE's as they are not full-blown carriers and they don't run away fast either if you let them get caught by some IJN big carriers.

I advanced a few more turns and am still busy supplying Guadalcanal and Port Moresby. I should soon have at least 2 to 3 months of supply there over and above the magic 2-1 supply level, about 150,000 supplies. I should be commencing my Shortland invasion this weekend so I'll be giving a post mission briefing after the weekend. I should also be seeing the Bunker Hill as it is now only 9 days away from being at Pearl. I just started bombing Gasmata with my B-17's and B-24's from PM and that should keep the AI busy supplying that base. I see it put a big armored unit there so I'll take it down by killing it's supply base and letting time and malaria do the hard work for me. I've got Lae and Finschafen pounded into mush and I'm just keeping them that way now with periodic bombings by my medium bombers. The AI landed almost a new division at Salamua so I'll strat pounding the grund units there a little with the mediums. Just got to love the way the AI is brining me more bomb and cannon fodder in their self-maintained POW camps.
Eric Larsen

[Von Rom]

Originally posted by EricLarsen
Von Rom,

The Yamato and Musashi strike back! I bet you were sweating bullets when the mighty Yamato bombarded Lunga and probably messed up your nice air force there. Shame on you for not providing some naval cover there. Oh, that's right you've lost most of your ships already or they're severly damaged and limping back to Pearl. Be careful with those 3 CVE's as they are not full-blown carriers and they don't run away fast either if you let them get caught by some IJN big carriers.Eric Larsen

Eric: Oh, I still have few surprises up my sleeve, heh. . .

[Von Rom]

MOMENTOUS DAYS AHEAD

Current Date: January 12, 1943

Several important events are about to take place within the next few days:

1) "Operation Quickstart" - Advance elements of the 2nd and 3rd Marine Divisions are currently steaming from Noumea, on their way to invade the beaches of south-west New Britain and north-east New Guinea. Japanese troop build-ups, submarine activity, and air attacks, in those areas have all been increasing. Two major land battles are expected.

2) "The Great Carrier Battle" - At least three Japanese carriers have been sighted north-east of Kavieng. Their presence changes everything. My three Escort Carriers (CVE) simply cannot stand toe-to-toe with them. And if they steam towards the Admiralty Islands, then my tenuous hold on several forward bases, as well as my up-coming invasions, may be in jeopardy. I am currently devising a plan to lure them towards Lunga. If my plan works, I hope to destroy as much of the Japanese carrier planes as I can. If I fail, then the enemy carriers will be free to attack my forces at will. Therefore, a great and desperate carrier battle is about to be fought. Its outcome may very well be decisive. . .

3) "The Battle of Gasmata" - Currently, Allied and Japanese airforces are engaged in a desperate airwar over, and around, Gasmata. Hundreds of fighters from both sides have been engaged in non-stop air battles. The Japanese are fully aware that if the Allies can land enough troops, and build-up the base, at Gasmata, then ALL Japanese bases, convoys, and naval warships, will be within reach of Allied bombers. To defeat this, the Japanese have launched fighters and bombers in unprecedented waves, attacking Gasmata, the fighters stationed there, as well as the ships attempting to unload their precious cargo at its port.

Allied fighters stationed at Gasmata and at Buna have been fighting desperate air battles in an attempt to protect this vital shipping. Many planes have been lost; precious ships have been sunk; and brave men have died. . .

However. . .

Ships have been getting through. . .

Their cargo has been unloaded. . .

The base IS being developed. . .

IF my plan succeeds, then in the very near future, the sun will be darkened by the presence of hundreds of Allied bombers; the air will be filled with the deafening roar of their engines; and the skies will be lit with the vengeance of their fires. . .

The next few days and weeks will see even more vicious air attacks in the airwar around Gasmata. Whatever the outcome in this "Battle of Gasmata", its results will be decisive. Stay tuned. . .

[Von Rom]

======BREAKING NEWS======

US MARINES STORM ASHORE: SEIZE ENEMY BASES

Operation 'Quickstart' a Total Victory

January 21, 1943

This is the BBC:

Chris Wrinkle reporting:

"In more dramatic developments today, the 2nd and 3rd Marine Divisions, under a constant hail of enemy air attacks, stormed ashore at both Sag Sag, on New Britain and at Saidor, on New Guinea.

After fierce counterattacks by the Japanese to eliminate the invasion beachheads, the Marines, supported by bombers from Port Moresby, charged both enemy positions. After several hours of hand-to-hand fighting, the Marines won decisive victories at both bases, eliminating or taking captive, thousands of Japanese Imperial soldiers.

The capture of Sag Sag and Saidor, as part of Operation "Quickstart", secures the strait joining the Solomon Sea to the Bismarck Sea, and opens the door to the Japanese-held Admiralty Islands.

Military commanders are hailing these latest victories as important contributions to isolating the remaining enemy bases on New Guinea, and to defeating the Japanese in the South Pacific."

[Von Rom]

Great Carrier Battle at Santa Isabel

January 29, 1943

As last reported, my recon planes spotted 3 Japanese carriers that were part of two powerful task forces that were north-east of Rabaul. I needed to keep these enemy carriers away from the Admiralty Islands and from New Britain (where I was landing supplies/troops ashore), and yet I could not stand toe-to-toe against them with my three puny Escort Carriers. So I decided to devise a plan to lure those IJN carriers towards Lunga.

This is what I did. I placed a single Escort Carrier into an AA-heavy task force made up of 13 CLAAs, CLs, and DDs. I then sent it towards Shortland, had it stop, wiggle its little bottom (to attract the Japanese carriers) and then had it s-l-o-w-l-y sail back to Lunga, where I positioned it just a few hexes outside Lunga within the Slot.

Well, those IJN carriers smelled blood: they moved so fast towards that vulnerable CVE, you would have thought they were a pack a Great Danes that had just spotted a little, innocent poodle, and were salivating at the thought of achieving an "easy" kill.

Unknown to the Japanese, two months previously, I had moved at least 100 dive bombers and torpedo planes to Lunga, in the hopes of attacking enemy shipping. Up until this point, I rarely had a chance to use them. So the Japanese were probably expecting me to have only a few medium bombers and fighters stationed there.

Poor Japanese carriers. . .

Well, when those three Japanese carriers came within striking distance of Lunga, the commander on Lunga launched at least FOUR WAVES of attacking planes totalling at least 82 dive bombers and torpedo planes as well as 45 fighters.

Those American planes swooped down time-and-time again, as bombs dropped on, and around, the zig-zagging Japanese ships. A 1,000 pound bomb struck the carrier Hiyo. Then another 1,000 pound bomb plunged into the carrier Shokaku. Then several 500 pound bombs landed on the light carrier Shoho. On and on it went: dive bombers shrieking through the air; the release of bombs; the sound of explosions; the sight of flying debris and burning flight decks; the terrible agony of survivors struggling to contain fires on burning ships. . .

In the end, the light carrier Shoho sank along with a couple of destroyers. The heavy carriers Hiyo and Shokaku were both crippled with at least three bomb hits each. They limped away. I don't know whether they made it to a secure base or not; in all probability they also sank. I'll probably know more in a few weeks' time. In addition to the lost carriers, the Japanese also lost 35 valuable carrier fighters and bombers.

The cost to the Allies for this stunning victory? Only two hits were taken on the "decoy" CVE, which sustained 20% system damage, in addition to losing 10 fighters and 15 dive bombers.

The result of this decisive carrier battle means that my surface ships have gained relative freedom of movement, and my supply and build-up at Gasmata can continue.


Air Battle for Gasmata

February 5, 1943

After three weeks of non-stop air attacks by the Japanese air force against Gasmata and my convoys, the action is finally easing up. In the beginning, the enemy was attacking almost every ship that sailed to Gasmata. Now, it is attacking one ship in four.

The attrition in fighters, and the fury of the attacks, has been exhausting. Many planes on both sides have been destroyed; many ships have been sunk or damaged; and a great deal of supplies and lives have been lost. . .

But now, the Allies are finally getting the upper hand, and Gasmata now has a level 4 airbase. I immediately stationed about 90 dive bombers and torpedo planes on it.

Gasmata is a vitally strategic base to own. It is an "Unsinkable Aircraft Carrier"; the "HUB" around which all shipping and bases revolve.

To give you an idea of how devastating having bombers on Gasmata can be, here is a report of the first attack that was made by Allied bombers stationed there, against a Japanese bombardment task force:

Air attack on Japanese Bombardment TF:


Allied aircraft (Stationed at Gasmata):

F4F-4 Wildcat x 90
SBD Dauntless x 84
P-400 Airacobra x 12
P-40E Kittyhawk x 29
P-40E Warhawk x 29

no losses

Japanese Ships:

BB Nagato, Bomb hits 6, on fire
CL Kinu, Bomb hits 1, on fire
BB Mutsu, Bomb hits 1
DD Nagatsuki, Bomb hits 1, on fire
CA Mikuma, Bomb hits 1
DD Minegumo, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
DD Oboro, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage

Japanese ground losses:
Men lost 81

And the attacks have been continuing. The Japanese are paying a heavy price for allowing me to operate from Gasmata.

I can now bomb Kavieng, Rabaul and Shortland at will. In addition, I can also attack ALL the shipping that moves between these bases. And I haven't even stationed a single level bomber on it yet! ALL my level bombers have been resting at Lunga and Port Morseby, just waiting for this day. . .

Now it's time to "Let the Dogs Out. . ."


Statistics To Date:

Ships Lost

Allied - 192

IJN - 242

Planes Lost

Allied - 1,804

IJN - 2,295

Bases Held

Allied - 25

IJN - 8

Score

Allied - 12,398

IJN - 10,628

[EricLarsen]

July 21, 1943
At the Allied HQ on Noumea Admiral Larsen looks at his assembled staff and declares his new offensive, code named "Combined Fury". "As soon as the 3 new CVL's arrive at Noumea in a few days all carrier forces will move to their forward operating bases of Gili Gili and Tulagi. Then they will conduct a combined carrier offensive against Rabaul. The heavy bomber elements of both SOPAC and SWPAC will also assist in this combined offensive by the two major commands. The offensive will start on 8/1/43. The goal of this offensive is simple, reduce Rabaul to rubble!"

Eric Larsen

[EricLarsen]

Late July 1943 - The 3 CVL's arrive at Noumea and now the remaining fleet carriers at Cairns and Noumea set sail for their forward oeprating bases of Gili Gili and Tulagi. As the carriers sail away with no CAP or patrols flying the Allied sailors are confident that the land-based fighters will protect them as they sail into their forward ports. There are over 600 planes reported at Rabaul. Over 3 days as the carriers sail into Gili Gili and Tulagi the Japanese send out strikes that result in over 50 Japanese planes shot down for only a few land based fighters lost.

August 1, 1943 - Seven CV's, six, CVe's, three CVL's, 8 CA's, 7 CLAA's, 7 CL's and 72 destroyers set sail towards the middle of the Solom Seas. A RO class submarine attacks at night the CL in the Lexington tf but is sunk by accompanying destroyers. CAP is set for 30% but the only naval air attack goes in against Gili Gili where some tankers start to unload their fuel load but they cannot find their quarry due to the CAP over Gili Gili.

August 2, 1943 - The 11 carrier tf's meet at Point Combine, sixty miles due west of Shortland and 270 miles SE of Rabaul. The Japanese send about 50 planes to attack but most are shot down by over 250 Hellcats and Wildcats and no bombers make it through to drop bombs on the ships. Alarms go off at Shortland as the Japanese there learn of the massive Allied naval force 60 miles away, but the only planes to fly over are 4 recon planes from Lunga. The carrier air bosses get their orders for the following day, all planes to bomb Rabaul's airfield. There are still over 500 planes reported at Rabaul.

August 3, 1943 - The carrier tf's arrive 60 away from Rabaul and launch their massive air attack of over 400 Dauntlesses and Avengers escorted by over 100 Wildcats and Hellcats. They kill over a thousand troops and score over 270 airfield hits on their first attack, but only a few planes are caught on the ground. Then the Japanese strike back, sending in wave after wave of planes to atatck the combined carrier force. First about 20 fighters and bombers go in and are met by over 240 Wildcats and 70 Hellcats and are shredded. Then a wave of 50 planes comes in against the formidable CAP and gets shot down. Then a big third wave of 150 planes comes in and only 3 fighters survive the combat. Finally a small wave of 9 Val's comes in and after 5 are shot down the rest fly back home without pressing home their attack. The pilots refer to this air battle as "The Great Rabaul Turkey Shoot" as the Allies have shot down 250 planes in air-to-air combat to only 24 losses of their own.

August 4, 1943 - Now the carriers move to within 30 miles of Rabaul and attack the port, sinking many APD's and AG's as well as putting a lot of damage to the port facilities and fortifications. Over 100 heavy bombers arrive to bomb Rabaul's airfield against no enemy CAP, as the enemy has only a little over 100 planes left at Rabaul. No more attacks come from Rabaul against the formidable carrier force.

August 5-15, 1943 - Over the next two weeks the US carriers sail back and forth 30 miles away from Rabaul and attack the airfield and port there until no ships are left in port and no planes fly from Rabaul. They also attack naval forces around the area and manage an attack against a big transport tf at Kavieng, shooting down over 20 CAP there in one day. After two weeks of continuous action the carriers have totally trashed Rabaul, leaving the airfield and port facilities smoking ruins and sinking over 35 ships of various types, including 1 CL, 1 sub, and several destroyers, and sinking about 20 barges. The Allies lost just under 100 planes during that whole two week operation and only one transport took a torpedo off of Gili Gili but managed to limp to that port to unload it's cargo before repairing floatation damage and hading back to Pearl via Noumea.

August 16-18, 1943 - All carriers head back to home port and now that the air threat from Rabaul has ended all fighters everywhere are now resting instead of flying CAP.

August 21, 1943 - almost 100 transports and accompanying escort vessels load up and set sail for Dobadura and Buna from Brisbane. Now finally the Allies can put planes on the fully built airfield at Dobadura as soon as the new base forces and tons of supply arrive there.

August 22, 1943 - About 100 transports and their escorts start loading up 2nd Marine division along with supporting troops to invade Shortland. Two newly arrived BB's and their escorts head to Tulagi in preparation of their supporting role in the shortland invasion. Taking Shortland will allow the medium bombers and long-rnage fighters to base there in preparation of the next invasion: target Rabaul!

August 25, 1943 - The Enterprise and Hornet carrier tf's, along with 2 surface combat tf's head out to rendevous with the Shortland invasion fleet. Meanwhile the transports are just rounding the corner around Gili Gili and Saratoga heads out towards Finschafen to interdict enemy shipping there. The Saratoga's planes sink a few transports.

And that's where I'm at now, just getting ready to land at Shortland and having my bases at Dobadura and Buna get lots of supply. I finally decided to invade Rabaul right after Shortland, probably about the end of September, rather than go for the small troop concentrations at Munda and Vila and Buin. After I capture Rabaul with SOPAV forces it will be much easier to shift some more transports to SWPAC so that they can finish up the Salamua, Finschafen, Lae landings. It's rather peaceful now as the AI can't put up air attacks daily anymore. It looks like it's sending everything back to Truk. Just before I left Rabaul I hit a huge enemy transport tf that arrived at Rabaul. I saw that those transports were carrying a lot of troops, but I couldn't tell if it was trying to drop them off before I bombed it and chased it away or if it came in empty and was trying to evacaute troops. I think I caught it trying to bring them in, and I sent some subs to dog it about half way back to Truk resulting in sinking a few more ships with my subs.
Eric Larsen

[Von Rom]

OPERATION MONSOON

Current Date: Feb 7, 1943

Having a level-4 airbase at Gasmata is like owning 6 unsinkable "Essex-Class" fleet carriers. I now have 400 fighters, dive bombers and medium level bombers stationed there. Every day, the dive bombers attack ALL shipping that either leaves, enters, or is stationed, at Rabaul, including warships and convoys. Every day, medium bombers strike Rabaul's airfield and port facilities from 18,000 feet. Numerous Japanese ships anchored at Rabaul, including the mighty YAMATO, have been struck countless times by 500-pound bombs by this air offensive. Every day, the fighters provide escort and CAP, in their battle to whittle down the enemy air strength.

Two weeks ago, the Japanese were able to launch 100-plus fighters to intercept my bombers. Now, they are lucky if they can send up 15 fighters. Every day, my bombing runs consist of 80 fighters and 85 medium bombers. The fortress at Rabaul, its shipping, the troops stationed there, and its fortifications, are all being reduced to rubble.

In addition to the planes stationed at Gasmata, Long-Range Level Bombers (including the Liberator and Fortress), located on Lunga and Port Moresby, are bombing Rabaul from 18,000 feet.

After just 10 days of this intensive air offensive, called "Operation Monsoon", Japanese air- and naval- power, have essentially been crippled. . .

To supplement this great air offensive, I have put together a Bombardment Task Force consisting of four Battleships, four Heavy Cruisers, and four Destroyers. This Task Force is positioned just a short distance from Rabaul. It's orders? To Bombard Rabaul and destroy the YAMATO and the other damaged battleships at anchor there.

Essentially, I have by-passed Shortland and its heavily fortified garrison, and I am instead, going for the throat of the enemy - Rabaul. I have a few surprises up my sleeve for this once protected enemy base. . .

Gasmata: This base has become my Task Force of "Fleet Carriers".