Matrix Games Forums

Greetings post readers, this AAR is going to cover a game between myself (Allies) and my esteemed opponent Shark7 (Japanese).This being my third PBEM start (the game against Ramjet is still rolling, with me controlling the Japanese). I feel the need to start prattling on about my cunning plans (after the fact for reasons of secrecy of course), and the outcome of those plans.

It is going to be an open AAR; there will be from time-to-time some sensitive information. But it is up to Shark7 if he reads it or not, because I would like his input in this AAR. It also means that he can concentrate on that fine AAR ‘Thunder in the Pacific; Shark7 vs. Schwartzkie’. I would also like input from readers, because as a wise old Shark once told me ‘you’ll never learn anything if you don’t listen to others’.

We are going to conduct this campaign in the MOD CHS155.2.08 format, on AB’s beautiful extended map. We are using the following settings;

1. Sub doctrines OFF
2. Fog of war ON
3. Advanced weather ON
4. Allied damage control ON
5. Historical 1st turn OFF
6. PDU ON
7. Variable setup OFF
8. Dec 7 surprise ON
9. Variable replacements FIXED
10. Combat reports ON
11. Auto Sub Ops OFF
12. TF move radius ON
13. Plane move radius ON
14. Auto facility expand OFF
15. Auto airgroup upgrade OFF
16. Accept air/ground replacements OFF.

We will also be guided in our operations and battles by this standard set of rules;

1. PT boat units limited to 6 hulls.
2. 6 ship max in ASW.
3. TF-Landings only in Base or dot base hexes.
4. No upgrading of 2E groups (64AC) to 4E, 2E squadron (16-18AC) upgrade to 4E OK.
5. 4E bombers must operate from airfield of at least size 4. 4E bombers may not bomb below 10000 feet.
6. B-29s must operate from a minimum size 6 airfield. B-29s may not perform naval attack missions.
7. 4Es on naval attack min alt 15.000 ft
8. Aircraft limitations per airfield are 50 * +10%
9. No Corsairs on US carriers until 1/44.
10. Allied units may not move on turn one. Japan may conduct only one port attack on turn one and cannot target USN carriers.
11. Japanese Kwantung Army forces and those in China must pay PP to leave the theatre. Allied forces in China and India must also pay PP to leave their respective theatres.
12. Aerial mining of ports limited to 1 group per target per turn, max of 8 groups per turn.
13. Army 2E aircraft on ASW patrol limited to 1 group per base, no limit on total.
14. Aerial mining of ports limited to 1group per target per turn, max of 8 groups per turn.
15. Army 2E aircraft on ASW patrol limited to 1 group per base, no limit on total.

My overall strategy will be to fight hard, were possible against the first round of landings. To attrite his forces at all, and any opportunity. While stalling for time, to allow the build-up of a line of defense. This line of defense will be based on LBA, protected by strongly dug-in Ground Forces, well supported by AA and engineer units. These bases will be far enough back not to be overrun in the initial onslaught, but far enough forward to threaten his SRA perimeter bases.

My Naval tactics will be mainly reactive for the initial months. With the need to convoy large numbers of Troops and equipment, in evacuation and reinforcement operations. The Naval combat units not engaged in convoying, will be tasked primarily to hit and run raids on his landing sites, and supply lines. If I can keep track of KB, there will be the chance of some Carrier raids also (maybe).

The first task will be to assess the nature of the beast that I am facing: specifically is he a fast moving, lightly supported land-grabber; or is he the far more dangerous slow moving methodical well supported kind. Time will tell, and victory for me I suspect is not assured, it will have to be hard-won. So that’s about it for now, so till December 7th. Also I must add that I wish my opponent no luck at all what so ever in this game, and of course may the best Shark win.

Dec 7, 1941 Hostilities begin

Shark7 has launched a surprise attack on my main Pacific base at Pearl Harbor… yes shocking isn’t it. The strike consisted of 370 aircraft and targeting the main fleet anchorage, and the airfields. Damage was extensive with 22 ships being very badly damaged, and some may not survive, also 1 Battleship has already sunk at its moorings. The strike was so well coordinated that 51 Kate torpedo bombers managed to launch their torpedoes, with the consequence that all my Battleships received torpedo hits.

The strike against the airfields was equally devastating destroying over 80 aircraft on the ground. The airfields themselves are so badly cratered, as to be unusable. And the shame of it all is that only 4 brave P-40B Tomahawk managed to climb to intercept this raid. Also with only 16 enemy aircraft being brought down over the targets, some embarrassing questions are being asked.

My conclusion is that all his 6 large carriers were involved in this raid, because of the number of aircraft in the strike. We now wait to see if he will launch a second day of strikes tomorrow, which would give our alerted defenses a chance to redeem themselves, and maybe do some damage to his air groups.

There has also been landings made by Japanese landing Infantry at a number of locations in the Pacific area, notably at Wake Island were the defenders repulsed the enemy causing over 400 casualties to him. The enemy has also landed and successfully taken Tarawa, Nauru, with landings also Guam which is expected to fall tomorrow.

The Philippines are reporting air raids and landings in their backyard also, with a devastating raid launched against Clark Field by over 150 Japanese Naval Air force aircraft from Formosa. This raid has shut-down Clark Field, and also destroyed over 20 aircraft, and again only a handful of Allied fighters tried to intercept this raid.

The Landings in the Philippines have taken place at Aparri, Vigan, Legaspi, and Gasmata in Luzon, they were all unopposed, as was a paratroop landing on Lamon Bay. Batan Island between Luzon and Formosa was also taken in assault. In the south there are reported landings at Iloilo and Dadjangas. With the landing at Dadjangas on Mindanao clearly designed to split the forces there in half. There have been a few raids launched against some of these landings by small numbers of B-17’s, but no hits have yet been scored.

Meanwhile there have been air and surface ship attacks against Allied shipping attempting to flee in the South China Sea area. One attack was reportedly made by aircraft from a light carrier, positioned just to the west of Luzon. There has been air raids reported on Hong Kong, with a ground attack expected to follow soon. In China there has also been numerous air attacks reported, mainly against ground troops.

In Malaya the British are reporting a landing in force at Kota Bharu, with air attacks on Victoria Point, and Alor Star Air Force bases. The RAF has been launching attacks on Shipping involved in the landing at Kota Bharu all day, but has yet to score any hits. It is expected that there will be an overland advance by Japanese forces into northern Malaya in the next few days.

In the Moluccas area the Dutch are reporting landings at Morotai, and Weda, and also to the south at Sorong. It is expected that these landings are a springboard for a move on Amboina, and ultimately Kendari. Also the Australians are reporting landings in the New Britain area, clearly designed to isolate Rabaul.

Japanese Merchant raiders have also sunk a Freighter off the Society Islands. On a positive note S-39 has put 2 torpedoes into a Japanese merchantman of Leyte, and lived to tell the tale.

Taisa Takagi, Akira entered the room and bowed deeply to the man in front of him. With a simple nod in return he began to speak:

"Majesty our forces have reported many successes in the initial waves of our offensive. As you are aware our forces have struck at British, Dutch and American targets across the Pacific. Our forces in China continue to press Chaing Kai-Shek's forces as well as the disorganized Communist rabble. The Soviet front remains quiet and no antagonistic actions have been taken in this theatre."

Taisa Takagi pauses for a breif moment before another nod signals for him to continue.

"In the Central Pacific, Chujo Nagumo has reported a successfull airstrike on the port facilities at Pearl Harbor. Numerous battleships have been sunk or damaged and the airfields, drydocks, and manufacturing facilites are reported damage. However, the success is not as complete as we had hoped, as the American aircraft carriers were not in the port and Chujo Nagumo's attempts to locate them have proved unsuccessful. The fuel concerns we had during the planning stage prevent further searching."

"Shosho Kaijioka reports the situation at Wake Island is in doubt. The initial wave has established a beachhead, but the initial push toward the airfield was repulsed with heavy casualities. Aditional forces will be landing in the next few days to reinforce Kaijioka's forces."

"Chujo Yoshinaka of the 4th Fleet area reports all other objectives taken or on schedule. Nauru Island and Tawara are secured. In the South East Fleet area, Chujo Kusaka reports that our forces have made successful landings in the Rabaul area and will be able to isolate the Australian forces in that area within days."

"Chujo Homma of 14th Army reports that the the Phillipine landings are on schedule and meeting very limited resistance from American and Phillipine forces. The port facilities at Lamon Bay have been secured and our landings at Aparri, Vigan, Naga, and Legaspi have all successfully established beachheads meeting no resistance from enemy troops. It is also expected that we will secure Iloilo and Dadjangas within the next 24 to 48 hours. The invasion of Jolo was aborted due to the presence of enemy surface forces in the landing zone, aircraft from the light carrier Ryujo will attempt to clear the area ahead of a second landing attempt."

"Taisho Terauchi of the Southern Area Army reports all objectives successfull. Our landings at Singora and Khota Baharu have met limited resistance and beachheads have been successfully established. The 38th Infantry Division has met stiff resistance at Hong Kong, but has managed to gain a foothold in the area. Aditional air power will be assigned to support the efforts there. The Siamese have entered into a cease fire agreement with our forces and have given us basing options pending a more permanant treaty."

"Taisho Yamamoto reports that our submarine and surface raider task forces have managed to engage and sink some 16000 tons of shipping in the last 24 hours of operations. Taisho Yamamoto has also compiled a report transmitted from the Kido Butai concerning damage to the ships and facilities at Pearl Harbor."

With that, Taisa Takagi hands a type written report to the man in front of him, and with an approving nod and wave of the hand is dismissed. Bowing deeply he backs his way out of the room as the man he has just addressed reads the reports given to him...

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Air attack on Pearl Harbor , at 114,72

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 76
D3A2 Val x 137
B5N2 Kate x 157

Allied aircraft
P-40B Tomahawk x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed
D3A2 Val: 7 destroyed, 53 damaged
B5N2 Kate: 8 destroyed, 45 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
P-40B Tomahawk: 21 destroyed
PBY Catalina: 18 destroyed
SBD-3 Dauntless: 7 destroyed
P-26A: 2 destroyed
P-36A Mohawk: 12 destroyed
C-47 Dakota: 4 destroyed
B-17D Fortress: 2 destroyed
OS2U-3 Kingfisher: 3 destroyed
B-18A Bolo: 4 destroyed
P-40E Warhawk: 5 destroyed
F4F-3 Wildcat: 3 destroyed
A-20B Boston: 3 destroyed
B-17E Fortress: 1 destroyed

Allied Ships
BB Arizona, Bomb hits 9, Torpedo hits 2, on fire
BB West Virginia, Bomb hits 13, Torpedo hits 4, on fire, heavy damage
BB Oklahoma, Bomb hits 9, Torpedo hits 4, on fire, heavy damage
DD Shaw, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
BB Tennessee, Bomb hits 8, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
DMS Perry, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
BB Nevada, Bomb hits 12, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
BB Pennsylvania, Bomb hits 8, Torpedo hits 2, on fire
BB Maryland, Bomb hits 3, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
CL Raleigh, Bomb hits 2, on fire
DD Monaghan, Bomb hits 1, on fire
AK Florence D., Bomb hits 1, on fire
CA New Orleans, Bomb hits 2, on fire
CL St. Louis, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
AD Dobbin, Bomb hits 1, on fire
BB California, Bomb hits 13, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
CA San Francisco, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
DD Cummings, Bomb hits 1, on fire
AK Castor, Bomb hits 1, on fire
CL Detroit, Bomb hits 1
ML Oglala, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
DD Downes, Bomb hits 1, on fire


Allied ground losses:
93 casualties reported
Guns lost 3

Airbase hits 50
Airbase supply hits 3
Runway hits 246

Dec 8, 1941 A day I would rather forget

No second day strike on Pearl Harbor didn’t really need it I suppose as the first strike did so well. Air-search has failed to find any sign of KB today, which I can tell you is a bit disconcerting, but hopefully he is going northwest. Can’t see any sign of his Subs either, they must be heading somewhere not so hot, to cause some mischief.

The enemy overran Wake today, must have had a floating reserve. A big SNLF, now I am wondering where that was meant for, if he didn’t use it at Wake. Also all his landings in South West Pacific, and Southern DEI have taken their objectives, Am reasonably positive where second round of landings will go, Rabaul, and Amboina would be my guess.

Now we come to the fiasco in the Philippines, with the Enemy Light Carrier operating in the Southern China Sea I ordered several naval units to head south for the Celebes Sea at night. First unit to find the Trap was Boise when she ran into the Light Carrier Ryujo, and her attendant Heavy Cruisers plus Destroyers, which promptly sunk her before she could get a shot off. Come daylight Ryujo’s Kates located and sunk Houston, a day that I would rather forget.

Meanwhile on land in the Philippines the enemy has taken all his landing objectives, and is now consolidating them. The Landing at Lamon Bay is concerning me, as I think he may try to cut-off Manila, with a quick advance from here. May have to take offensive action to protect Manila, till the northern troops have withdrawn into the City. Also the slaughter continues in the South China Sea, with several more ships sunk by air attack.

He continues to land troops at Kota Bharu in Malaya, and it is only a matter of time before he pushes me out. Also he is now landing a large force at Singora in the north, which he will possibly try to fix my forces with, so he can cut me off with an advance from Kota Bharu. The RAF have been attacking both beachheads with all aircraft available all day, but as yet has only had one torpedo hit on a transport at Singora.

So all in all a day I would rather forget, but I suspect that I will have a few more days like today, which will make the revenge all that much sweeter.
[;)]

Taisa Takagi again enters the ornately decorated room bowing deeply. Again with the positive nod, he begins his report...

"Majesty we have many more successes to report to you today. In the Central Pacific, Shosho Kaijioka reports success in securing Wake Island. The additional Naval Landing forces you wisely assigned to the operation proved essential in the victory. In the South Pacific area, all operations are on schedule and all initial waves report securing their targets. Phase 2 of operations in the 4th Fleet and South East Fleet areas will begin on schedule."

"In the Philippines area we have many great victories to report. Iloilo has fallen with the airfields still in servicable condition. We have already stationed Army Air Force fighter and bomber squadrons at Iloilo to intercept enemy shipping. Also, Shosho Takagi reports sinking an American light cruiser in surface action, and a successful air strike against and American heavy cruiser sinking it as well. Our air forces have also claimed many merchant ships and military transports in the area."

"Taisho Terauchi reports that all Sourthen Area Army operations are proceeding on schedule. The landings at Kota Baharu have been a complete success and he expects that the 18th Infantry Division and supporting units will secure the airfield there within the next 72 hours. In Hong Kong, 38th Infantry Division continues to progress slowly toward the airfields and port, and have succesfully bombarded enemy positions with artillery."

"Taisho Yamamoto reports that Kido Butai has once again entered radio silence and is expected to arrive at its next destination on schedule. Our submarine forces have been dispersed to the pre-determined hunting zones. Taisho Yamamoto also reports that an additional 20,000 tons of enemy shipping have been eliminated in the last 24 hours."

Again, Taisa Takagi is met with an approving nod and dismissal before bowing deeply and backing out of the room.

***
Finding Boise in the middle of my Carrier Fleet was an unexpected moment for sure, one of those times that leaves you sweating bullets. This was especially true for me as the first of my ships to open fire on Boise and score hits with its 5" guns was the Ryujo! That was a little too close for comfort.

Dec 9, 1941 The headless Chicken stage continues

The Good news from Pearl Harbor is that an air search Catalina has reported an enemy force containing carriers 800 miles to the west heading for Wake. PH itself is still a mess, and will be that way for some time. While the fight continues to save the badly damaged ships, which in some cases I feel we may lose. To the south at Makin Island an enemy Naval Guard unit landed at night, and occupied the Island during the day.

In the south west Rabaul is now completely surrounded by enemy landings, and it is only a matter of time before it is assaulted itself. Every effort will be made to reinforce Rabaul, but with the distances involved, this will take time, and time is something I fear that is running out. Also to the north a landing has been reported at Manokwari in northern New Guinea, which is somewhat confusing as I thought the next landing would be at Amboina. From this last bit of information I can only concluded that the enemy has insufficient forces available at present for a direct assault on Amboina.

In the Philippines the days are dark indeed with the enemy now firmly established ashore in force. The day started with an escorted attack on Manila by enemy army dive bombers operating from the recently captured airfield at Iloilo, and even though this attack was intercepted by P-40s which shot down several enemy aircraft, the dive bombers still seceded in badly damaging 2 docked Oilers. Later in the day the enemy conducted fighter sweeps on both Clark field and Manila with Zero fighters from Formosa, The sweep on Clark field encountered no opposition, but the one on Manila was met by a P-40 CAP, and in the resulting dogfight the enemy shot down 8 P-40s for the cost of 2 Zeros.

One ray of sunshine happen today when 7 B-17s escorted by 12 P-40s out of Cagayan successfully bombed the airfield at Iloilo, also the escort managed to shot down 2 Nate fighters over the airfield for no loss. But I’m afraid all other news from the Southern Philippines is bad as the Light carrier group has been wrecking havoc on the shipping fleeing the area. Also in the South China Sea the slaughter continues with strikes from a light carrier group and land based aircraft sinking several ships in the area.

The battle for Malaya goes badly with the fall of Kota Bharu to the enemy today; this has compelled the start of a withdrawal from Northern Malaya before the enemy can cut the main rail link. Meanwhile the RAF attacked the shipping at Kota Bharu today with limited success, scoring torpedo hits on 2 enemy troop transports, for the loss of 3 attacking aircraft. One surprise today was the appearance of enemy fighter cover over Kota Bharu, even if they were only Nates they did distract some of the Bombers from doing their job.

The Brave Hong Kong garrison continues to holdout, but sadly there is not much that can be done to help. There was some air attacks on Chinese forces today and a small ground combat west of Shanghai, but no major offensives as yet. So as you can see a bad day with a few sunny moments, and tomorrow I suspect will be much the same.

Dec 10, 1941 Safer to stay in Dodge City today

Only thing of note to happen in the Western Pacific today was at Pearl Harbor, where the enemy I-15 put 3 torpedoes into a small AK, which promptly sank. With some more submarine sightings around PH, I think he may be hanging are round looking for damaged ships from the raid.

Most of the action today was centered around the Philippines, but I think a slaughter would best describe what is happening. To the west of the Philippines, and to the north and south the enemy is hunting down fleeing Allied shipping with 2 CVL task forces. Land based aircraft from Indo-China, Formosa, and the captured airfield at Iloilo are also striking at the fleeing shipping in their range. I also now fear with the capture of Jolo Island today by the enemy that the southern exit will be sealed tomorrow.

The 2 highlights for the day was the retreating of an SNLI attacking Clark Field from Lamon Bay, and another escorted B-17 raid on Iloilo airfield. The SNLI shock attack on Clark Field was a real surprise, and probably would have worked if there had been no Allied troops there. The P-40s escorting the B-17s also knocked down another 4 Nates, which warmed up my desponded mood. Meanwhile a heavy air attack on Manila by enemy naval aircraft from Formosa heavily damaged the port, and caused many casualties.

In Malaya the enemy has been consolidating his landings today; the RAF has launched several raids on these landings, but with no result. The enemy launched a large raid (Nells and Zeros from Bangkok) on a convoy loading at Victoria Point today, I had ordered the commander to be gone by daylight, but I don’t have to replace him as they’re all dead. There are reports of enemy submarines operating in the approaches to Singapore, and a merchant ship found that the Palembang River mouth had been mined.

Here is the Score to date:

Taisa Takagi again apears for his daily report and begins as soon as he is signaled to do so.

"Majesty, again we are having great success against the American and British forces. The current situation suggests that the American fleet is in disaray and the British are not able to respond in force. To the latter point, British forces have abandoned Alor Star and forward scouting units from the 5th Infantry Division have been able to secure the airfields there."

"In the Central Pacific, submarine I-15 was able to successully infiltrate the American defenses at Pearl Harbor and sink a large merchant transport in the mouth of the harbor. I-15 then managed to successfully elude American defensive forces. A similar attack was attemped by I-20 at Johnston Island, but the commander of that submarine reports his torpedoes failed to detonate and he was unable to make another attempt."

"In the 4th Fleet and South East Fleet Areas operations continue as planned. The facilities at Manokwari will be secured within 24 hours. The Australians have increased their air activity around Rabaul, but this should not hamper our operations in the area."

"Taisho Terauchi reports that the British appear to be in full retreat in the Malayan Penninsula. He reports that they seem to be withdrawing toward the Johore Bharu/Singapore area as expected. In the northern Malaya area, bombers from the 22nd Aviation Flotilla attacked and sunk British transports that appeared to be evacuating troops from Victoria Point. The British garrison at Hong Kong has managed to repulse a probing attack by 38th Infantry Division."

"Chujo Homma of 14th Army reports that the attempt to secure the airfield at Clark Field by 3rd SNLF Paratroops has failed and that the unit has successfully withdrawn to Lamon Bay. However, Jolo Island has been secured with operational airfields, and American shipping in the area has been seen dispersing in an attempt to fee the Philippines."

"Taisho Yamamoto reports that while we have suffered damaging attacks to 3 tranposrt to date, we have suffered no sinkings or operational losses to the fleet. The fleet air assets have suffered minor losses, but American and British resistance has been soft to this point. Taisho Yamamoto also reports that our naval assets have claimed another 18,000 tons in American, British and Dutch shipping in the last 24 hours."

With his report finished, Taisa Takagi is dismissed.

Dec 11, 1941 First loss to the enemy[:'(]

Central Pacific was quiet today, no action, but we (by we I mean my forces and I) are busy putting Pearl Harbor to rights. We have been playing cat and mouse with his I-boats around Pearl Harbor, but no contacts yet. KB is still heading west and is reported to be moving at full speed, so he must have a date somewhere soon.

Some shipping movements detected around Rabaul, but no landings here yet, but my guess is that he is gathering his dispersed units for a crack soon. Also in the Moluccas area there is movement, and the enemy has taken Manokwari. But as yet there is no move on Amboina, also an RAAF Hudson raid failed to find the shipping it was after.

The Philippines was all bloody action again today, with too many raids by the enemy to mention. But several more ships were lost to enemy air strikes to day, mainly in the south west. Also notable were several skirmishes between P-40s and Nates today, in which the P-40s were the winners again. P-40s also knock down some Kates plus a couple of escorting Nates today in an interception over Bataan. B-17s have been active today in the south on naval strikes, but no hits were obtained.

There was a heavy raid on the airfields in Manila today, by over 130 enemy naval bombers escorted by Zeros from Formosa. This raid has effectively knocked out my Airpower for the protection of the Luzon area. Meanwhile on the ground the enemy has taken San Fernando, and is set to move on Clark Field in the foreseeable future. South of Manila the enemy is also closing up on the city, and there is not much I can do, as the enemy holds all the cards.

The South China Sea was quieter today with just a few stragglers sunk. While the brave Hong Kong garrison still holds out against a superior force with air support. But I suspect Hong Kong’s days are numbered, as the enemy can easy reinforce from mainland China. Also in Southern China the enemy has crossed the Vietnamese frontier with a small force, but I suspect that this is a spoiling attack designed to draw me into Vietnam. A number of enemy air raids in China today on ground units, but no big pushes yet.

In Malaya the enemy launched an air raid on Taiping today, which damaged the airfield. The RAF launched several raids on Japanese shipping, but again no hits were obtained. The enemy ground offensive has started to move down the peninsula from the north, also his forces at Kota Bharu are moving inland to meet this thrust. And finishing on a high note… to the south at Batavia, the enemy submarine I-155 ran into a minefield off the harbor, detonating a mine and sinking.

Taisa Takagi was a bit nervous this day as he began briefing the most important man in his world...

"Majesty, I have both good and bad news to report," he said hesitantly, the man he was reporting too simply nodded.

"The good news is that we are still well on schedule to achieve our objectives. Chujo Homma of the 14th Army reports that recon shows that the airfields at Manila are completely destroyed and that the enemy will no longer be able to operate from those airfields in significant numbers. Chujo Homma also reports that San Fernando is secured and he expects to march on Clark Field within days."

"Our aircraft operating out of the fields at Jolo Island and Iloilo have successfully engaged several merchant ships attempting to escape from the area. However, American P-40 fighters escorting B-17 bombers have been causing losses to our air forces in the area. Chujo Homma is requesting additional fighter cover for the area. Unfortunately our Army and Naval Air Forces in the area have different objectives and cooridination is lacking. Taisho Sugiyama of the Home Defense Force has indicated he can temporarily release one or two Sentai to aid in the Philippine Area."

"The South East Fleet and 4th Fleet continue with their preparations for phase 2 of the operation. They have reported no enemy contacts in their operational areas in the last 24 hours."

"Taisho Terauchi reports that operations are proceeding ahead of schedule in Malaya. Both 5th and 18th Infantry Divisions are attempting to pursue and overtake fleeing enemy forces. The air field at Alor Star is now manned and we will begin air operations from this field in the next 24 hours. Hong Kong continues to resist, and we have made no additional progress in that area of operations."

"In China we have started operations to secure our lines of communitcation. Chinese resistance remains passive, though one Chinese unit along the Indo-China border is offering stiff resistance to our forces. Additional forces will be made available if necessary."

"Taisho Yamamoto reports that we have claimed an additional 16000 tons of shipping in the last 24 hours. The bad news for today also comes from Taisho Yamamoto who reports that the submarine I-155 failed to report in as scheduled. The current status of this vessel is unknown, as the cause of the overdue report could be anything from a failure of the radio equipment to a loss of the vessel. You will be updated when the status of this vessel is confirmed."

And with a wave of the hand, Taisa Takagi is dismissed.

Dec 12, 1941 The Great Bataan Duck Line Shoot-up

The day started at Pearl Harbor with an air raid alarm, a dawn patrol Cat reported a carrier launching aircraft 200miles to the north. But after the crew returned from patrol, and was debriefed, it transpires that they spotted and reported a large enemy submarine launching a floatplane. The war appears to have moved away for now, but the cleanup continues at Pearl Harbor in case the enemy return.

RAAF Wirraway and Hudson aircraft attacked enemy shipping off the north coast of New Britain today, and a Wirraway managed to put a bomb onto a small AK (go RAAF). There is still no move on Rabaul, but it cannot be long now as the enemy will not want to leave the only airfield in the area in our hands. Also to the north there is still no move on Amboina, but that too cannot be long in coming.

Now to the Philippines and a strange incident happen off Bataan in the early hours of the morning. The Bataan coastal gun batteries report engaging and hitting a line of Destroyers steaming past their positions in a perfect review formation. The spotting crews also report that these Destroyers were at optimal range, ‘like Ducks in a shooting gallery’ was their description. The general feeling now is that this Destroyer division was lost, as no landings have been reported in the Bataan area today.

Meanwhile a further heavy air attack on the airfields in the Manila area has now rendered all aircraft operations in this area impossible, till these fields can be repaired. But most of the enemy air action was in the south today with 2 air attacks on Cagayan. The first was a fighter sweep by Nates which was meet by P-40s that managed to shot down 3 Nates for no loss. The second was by Kates escorted by Nates which managed to put a torpedo into a transport docked in the Harbor, while the P-40s bought down 1 of the Nates from this raid.

B-17s also struck at several naval targets in the south, and central Philippines today but no hits have been recorded (may have to reconsider their use for this type of attack). The enemy ground forces are now closing in on Manila in strength, and it can be expected that the City will be besieged in the very near future. Most of the Allied shipping has now fled the Philippines, and the cripples are still trying, but the cost has been high with over 30 vessels sunk in this area alone.

Brave Hong Kong is still holding, but with daily artillery bombardments, and air attacks are wearing the Troops down. Also in China today several air raids on Chinese troop concentrations, but no pattern to these strikes has emerged yet, with no troops to back-up these attacks moving. The enemy is also continuing his demonstration on the Indo-Chinese border, but is expected to move back across that border soon.

In Malaya the Japanese have hit Tavoy with a very heavy air attack by both Army and Naval bombers, and have reutilized it’s airfields for the foreseeable future. The RAF raided all the enemy landings again today, but again there have been no reported hits (the Gods don’t seem to be with us at present). Lastly a Japanese I-boat has sunk an AK just west of Kuching, this ship had made it all the way from Hong Kong without a scratch.

Taisa Takagi could feel beads of sweat forming on his brow as he began this day's breifing.

"Majesty, we have terrible news this morning," Takagi paused waiting for a reaction that did not come. "Shosho Nishimura has blundered into range of the coastal defenses at Bataan and had two ships of his task force badly damaged. While the light cruiser Naka will likely make it back to port, it is feared that destroyer Minegumo will not. Taisho Yamamoto has relieved Shosho Nishumura of command. Taisa Tahara of the Naka reports that Shosho Nishimura committed seppuku shortly there after."

The man receiving Taisa Takagi's report scowled for a brief moment before signaling him to continue.

"In other areas, we are progressing as planned. South Eastern Fleet operations against target K have begun and the attack should commence within 72-96 hours." Takagi points to a position on a large map in the room. "As you can see on the map, the area around Target K has been secured and enemy naval forces have withdrawn."

"4th Fleet reports sighting numerous submarines sighted in the last 24 hours. It is feared that Kido Butai has been sighted and these submarines are attempting to intercept the carrier force. Naval search patrols will be stepped up in the area in an attempt to sink or drive away these submarines."

"Chujo Homma of 14th Army reports our troops have reached both Lingayen and the Baguio Pass without enemy contact. The American and Philippine Armies are both in full retreat toward the Clark Field and Manila areas. Chujo Homma reports that to the south, 16th Infantry Division will reach the outskirts of Manila in the next 12 hours."

"In the Southern Area Army operations continue with 5th Division reaching the outskirst of Georgetown in Malaya. 18th Infantry Division and supporting units have made contact with fleeing British units neat Kuantan. 38th Infantry Division and supporting units continue to bombard enemy positions in Hong Kong."

"Taisho Yamamoto reports that we have sunk an additional 12000 tons of enemy shipping in the last 24 hours. With the exception of the Nishimura incident, there have been no other significant operations to report."

With a nod, Takagi is dismissed.

***
I just want to point out here that after this happened DivePac88 offered to replay the turn and let me manually set the course for the Naka group to avoid Bataan. Obviously it had never been my intention to challenge the CD at Bataan with a CL and a handfull of DDs. And while I greatly appreciate the gesture, I also felt it was my own fault for not manually setting the course to avoid the Bataan hex in the first place. These things happen in real life as well and I will just simply consider this a navigation error. These kinds of events simply fall under the 'it happens' category. I can say I have thus far enjoyed our PBEM.

Dec 13, 1941 Retreat Retreat Retreat

All was quiet elsewhere in the Pacific today, so we go straight to the Philippines. The day started with enemy landings at Laoag, and San Jose, the occupation of Laoag being completed by the end of the day. The now morning ritual air raid on the Manila airfields further damaged these fields again, followed by a strike by escorted Kates out of Iloilo which did additional damage. Then the news came late in the day that Japanese troops were probing the southern outskirts of the city. While in northern Luzon the enemy occupied both Lingayen and Baguio without resistance (the shame of the withdrawal policy is starting to hurt).

Meanwhile in the south there was an air attack on the port of Cagayan by escorted Mary dive bombers, possibly from Jolo Island. This raid numbered only 3 Marys escorted by 3 Nates, but managed to evade the P-40 CAP, and put 2 bombs onto an AK. The fact that the CAP could be evaded so easily is because the pilots are tried, and many machines are now unserviceable. To the south at Balikpapan a damaged Tanker entering the Port struck an enemy mine.

Hong Kong has been subjected to a number of air attacks today, but can take heart in the fact that 6 of the attackers were brought down by the AA defenses. The City was also subjected to a prolonged artillery bombardment, but no ground assault was launched, so it can be presumed that the enemy is resting for an all out attack soon. Elsewhere in China there were several air attacks on Chinese ground units, and airfields, but no major ground movements as yet from the enemy (only a matter of time).

Malaya was all action today, starting with a delaying action fought by 2 British brigades withdrawing from Kota Bharu, they were pushed out of their positions south of the town by a full enemy division. To the north at Tavoy the base support troops were surprised, and bundled out of the town by an enemy Tank regiment. Enemy patrols have also been spotted approaching Georgetown, and an assault on the town is expected soon.

The Enemy naval air force today put an air raid in on Kuala Lumpur, which damaged the airfield. But the RAF had some small success today when a Dutch T.IVa float bomber put a bomb onto the enemy BB Haruna off Kota Bharu, which resulted in some light damage. Vildebeest bombers also managed to put torpedoes into 2 AKs in the same area. But several other strikes on enemy shipping produced no hits, and some heavy losses in the aircraft involved. So all… in all, another dismal day for the Allies

Taisa Takagi begins his morning briefing...

"Majesty, Operation Sword Stroke against targets in target region Y will begin within the next 96 hours. As you can see here on the map, enemy positions have been weakened by our air forces and ground troops are preparing to move and take the initial phase targets. Additional forces will be formed up and prepped for action to secure and garrison the targets."

"Chujo Homma of 14th Army reports that the Baguio Pass and Lingayen were taken with no enemy resistance. 16th Army has arrived at Manila and is prepared to begin their assault on the city immediately. He also expects 7th Tank Regiment and the 65th Independant Brigade and supporting units to march on Clark Field withing 48 hours."

"Taisho Terauchi reports that British forces continue to flee south towards Singapore. The British have made several weak attempts to fight a delaying action, but each of these barriers has been easily overcome by our forces. In Hong Kong, 38th Infantry Division and supporting units continue to bombard enemy positions. In the Burma area of opertations, we have successfully over run Tavoy with the 1st Tank Regiment."

"Taisho Yamamoto reports that in the last 24 hours we have sunk an estimated 12000 tons of enemy shipping. In a bold more, submarine I-154 attacked and sank a small merchant ship in the harbor at Singapore. What makes this more impressive is the fact that I-154 surfaced to finish off the stricken merchant ship with its deck guns despite the threat of enemy defenses in the area. Taisho Yamamoto has suggested a battle citation for I-154 based on this bold action."

Dec 14, 1941 Manila Gone, We Shall Return

Pacific was quiet again today action-wise, but is now a hive of activity with preparations for the inevitable storm to come. There were submarine sightings again today around Pearl Harbor, but as yet no follow-up ASW Patrols has led to any contacts. All is quite in the waters around Rabaul for now, but with enemy radio transmissions increasing in the Truk area, it is possible some enemy mischief is afoot. There has also been no more enemy activity in the Moluccas area, it is possible that the enemy has detected our heavy naval units in the area, and has proponed operations for now.

In the southern Philippines today there was another air strike on the port at Cagayan, this raid managed to badly damage an AK with 2 torpedo hits. P-40s had attempted to intercept this raid, but lost the Kates and Nates in the scattered cloud. In the centre Philippines the Japanese completed the occupation of both Roxas, and San Jose, these 2 conquests have now effectively isolated the northern and southern Islands from each other.

The big news in the northern Philippines today was the fall of Manila to an enemy infantry division; but the truth was that the City had been evacuated by all other than fortress troops, who delayed the enemy before surrendering. It could be said that the enemy was somewhat surprised with the withdrawal from Manila, and maybe a little embarrassed that they have so badly damaged the airfields and port in this City. So in the north the Allies only hold Bataan and Clarke Field, so now with a limited front, have a chance of holding the enemy. The only enemy air activity today was a Zero sweep on Clarke Field, meet by P-40s, but no losses were recorded.

Hong Kong was raided again by Sally medium bombers, but only light damage was done, and none of the attackers were brought down. The enemy also bombarded military positions in the City with artillery, but no movement of ground troops was reported. Elsewhere in China there were air raids on Nanning’s airfield, and on 2 Chinese Guerrilla units, casualties and damage were light in all of these raids.

In the early hours of the morning a particular enemy submarine (I-154, we suspect from enemy radio intercepts) struck off Singapore again, putting a torpedo into an AK, and so badly damaging it, it will probably sink. The enemy launched a very destructive anti-shipping raid on the Singapore area today, carried out by Nell torpedo bombers escorted by Zero fighters. This raid badly damaging 2 APs ( 1 of which later sunk), and a PC, also the escorting Zeros became involved in a dogfight over the city in which both sides lost 6 fighters each. Up the coast at Johore Bahru another raid by a Nell and Zero combo badly damaged another AP, and sunk its escorting MSW.

On the east coast of Malaya the RAF launched 2 anti-shipping raids of its own, but sadly no hits were obtained, and 5 of the attackers were destroyed, mainly by enemy fighters now operating over the Landing sites. Meanwhile on the ground the orderly withdrawal continues down the Malaya peninsula to better defensive positions. So again a dark day, but on the bright side it is said; that a General is not truly tested until he has conducted a retreat.

As Taisa Takagi entered the room to begin his breifing, he noticed a number of civilian officials in the room as well. The civilians remained silent as Takagi was signaled to begin.

"Majesty, good news from 14th Army today. Manila has fallen. 16th Infantry Division not only secured the city, they managed to surround the defenders and force their surrender. As expected, the damage to the airfields was extensive, but our plans had taken this into account when we began our bombing campaign against the Americans."

"On other fronts, the British continue to flee before our forces in Malaya. Our air forces in China continue to soften Chinese positions. In Hong Kong 38th Division has been reinforced with an engineer regiment and attacks to reduce the fortifications in the area will begin soon."

"Taisho Yamamoto also has good news to report. The audacious I-154 has struck Merchant shipping inside Singapore Harbor for a second day in a row. Unfortunately, this submarine has expended its torpedoes and is returning to home port to resupply. In other areas, the initial forces assigned to the invasion of Target K will be in range of their targets by early morning, and the forces assigned to Target R will begin preparations later this afternoon. Taisho Yamamoto also reports an additional 15,000 tons of enemy shipping has been sunk in the last 24 hours."

Dec 15, 1941 A Mixed Bag Today

Pacific; around midnight a USN submarine patrolling west of Eniwetok spotted the enemy CA Tone steaming west in company of a BB, and had a torpedo shoot at her. The Torpedoes missed, and the submarine was depth charged by some escorting DDs, causing some light damage. The significance of this sighting is that Tone was known to be accompanying the enemy CV strike force that raided Pearl Harbor.

Elsewhere in the Pacific today around Pearl Harbor 2 ASW task forces located and attacked 2 enemy I-boats that they had been stalking, both submarine were suspected to have been heavily damaged in these attacks. Also to the west at Johnston Island an escorting force attacked another enemy SS, but contact was lost and it is not known if any damage was done. It is suspected that this ASW work will have to continue for some time, to clear the shipping lanes between PH and the US west coast.

It is reported today that the enemy has launched a carrier aircraft raid on Amboina, and while 3 of the attacking Kates were bought down, no damage is reported to any of the ships in the harbor. It is thought that this raid is a precursor to an invasion on Amboina, and all shipping other than military has been withdrawn from the area. Meanwhile a MSW struck a mine at the entrance to the harbor at Balikpapan, it is thought they were laid by an enemy SS 2 days ago.

There was no reported activity in the Philippines today as the weather was mainly bad, but the action expected to return when the skies clear. US PT-boats raided some of the enemy landings south of Manila during the night. A torpedo hit was reported on an enemy APD for the cost of 1 PT-boat sunk. It has also been reported by intelligence that the enemy BB Kongo struck a mine while entering Saigon harbor.

Poor old Hong Kong was pounded relentlessly by air attacks, and artillery bombardment again today, but there was still no assault on the City. The enemy IJAAF launched several raids on targets in China today, mainly against airfields and troop concentrations, in central and southern areas of the country. Japanese ground forces were also active in clearing several major roads in the central region of Chinese Guerilla forces.

Singapore was raided by the IJNAF; with the first raid being a fighter sweep by 20 Zeros, 1 of the enemy fighters was destroyed for the cost of 5 Buffalos, and 2 AVG P-40s. The 2nd raid was on the harbor by Nells escorted again by Zeros, and managed to torpedo a CL lying in the harbor. But a major achievement was scored by the RAF and AVG in turning most of the Nells in this raid back, plus shooting down 2 of them.

The RAF also launched a Vildebeest raid on the port at Kota Bharu, but no hits were achieved, and 3 of the escorting Buffalos were shot down by enemy fighters. Meanwhile in the northern Malaya Georgetown was overrun by the enemy, and the defending fortress troops forced to surrender. Victoria Point also fell today to an enemy parachute assault, which easily took the undefended airfield. So today was a mixed bag, with some little successes in amongst the bad news.

Again, Taisa Takagi finds several civilian officials in the briefing room. With the signal he begins his briefing.

"Majesty, we have both good and bad news today. The bad news comes from Saigon where the Battleship Kongo struck a mine and was damaged while entering the harbor. While the damage was not severe, Taisho Yamamoto reports the estimated repair time will be from 4 to 6 weeks. Also, an American torpedo boat group in the Philippines surprised a convoy and has severely damaged one of our transport destroyers, and this destroyer may be mortally wounded."

A nod.

"Chujo Hommo reports that a large force of infantry and armor has entered the Clark Field area. He indicates that the enemy has heavily fortified the area around the airfield and appears prepared to defend it. There have also been a large number of enemy merchant ships noted in the area. It is currently unkown if these ships are attempting to resupply the Philippine Garrison, or if they are attempting to evacuate the American troops from the area."

"In the Target K area, Shosho Takagi reports that an enemy surface combat force was located at Amboina's harbor. Pilot reports indicate that the force was centered on a heavy cruiser. This enemy task force was successfully attacked by aircraft from Shosho Takagi's Ni Butai with the heavy cruiser heavily damaged and at least one of the attendant destroyers badly damaged. Shosho Takagi also reports that enemy air activity around Target K is very light."

"Taisho Terauchi reports that Georgetown's defenders capitulated after a short engagement. He also reports that Victoria Point was assualted by paratroops of the 2nd SNLF Regiment who found the facilities abandoned by the enemy. Hong Kong continues to resist, however it is uncertain how long they will continue to do so, as they have been cut off from resupply since hostilities began."

"Taisho Yamamoto reports that an additional 12,000 tons of enemy shipping have been claimed by our forces today."

As Taisa Takagi bows and awaits his dismissal, the man in front of him signals one of the civilian officials who begins to speak.

"Taisa Takagi, his Majesty approves of the battle citation for submarine I-154. His Majesty was most impressed with the warrior spirit of this ship and crew. Please convey his Majesty's approval to Taisho Yamamoto and deliver this document to him." The official hands Taisa Takagi a parchment document embossed with the Imperial Seal. Taisa Takagi then bows deeply as he is dismissed.

Dec 16, 1941 1st Battle of Clark Field to Allies

Eastern Pacific was quiet today with no action, or sightings. So we’ll move across the Pacific to Amboina, where aircraft from a Japanese CVL striking force raided the port and airfield again today. Damage to the airfield and port were light, and while none of the attacks were shot down, unfortunately 1 of the defending fighters was lost. It is expected that a follow-up enemy landing force will make an appearance in the next few days.

Today enemy I-boats were active in the Makassar Strait sinking or damaging several merchant vessels. Some of these vessels had made it all the way from Manila, and were starting to think they were on the home-run. Up the Strait at Balikpapan some MSWs work on sweeping the port entrance were also attacked by an I-boat, which managed to sink one of the sweepers, and escape back out to sea unscathed.

Meanwhile in the southern Philippines a Dutch ML was caught just south of Jolo Island by IJAAF Dive bombers, and sunk. Also south of Davao a fleeing AP was bombed and strafed by enemy fighters, but this AP managed to escape undamaged. 2 badly damaged AKs also sunk today west of Davao, they had been fighting to stay afloat for several days.

In the Northern Philippines AO Pecos limping along damaged to the west of Bataan was set upon by IJAAF dive bombers, and left on fire and dead in the water. It is expected that the enemy will finish off the AO tomorrow. The Japanese tried to disrupt the unloading of supplies at Bataan today with a low level strike by Zero fighter-bombers, while no damage was done to the Transports, 6 of the attackers were bought down.

The big news today was the enemy’s first ground assault on Clark Field which was easily held by the defending troops. The Allied troops then launched a full scale attack of their own, which forced the enemy to retreat from the Clark Field area with heavy loss. The morale in the units involved in this attack has soared, and there is now a new confidence in holding the enemy when he renews his attack.

Hong Kong was also heavily assaulted today by Infantry and Engineers, but the enemy made no headway against the defenses. The city was also subjected to an air raid by IJAAF light bombers in support of the ground attack. In China the enemy also launched a ground attack out of the Nanchang salient, which again made no headway against the Allied positions. Also 2 IJAAF air raids on Guerilla units west of Shanghai, and in the south an air raid on the City of Nanning.

It was a quiet day over Malaya today because of overcast skies, which has given the Allied Airmen a much needed rest. The withdrawal down the peninsula continues at an orderly pace, and thanks to the rearguard units who held the enemy up, he has not been able to interfere. Well today was a great day, and has maybe slowed the enemy’s campaign in the Philippines a little.

Taisa Takagi returns for yet another report with bad news.

"Majesty, our probing assault on Clark Field has been repulsed and the enemy has forced our recon units to retreat. The enemy fortifications at the airfield were stronger than we anticipated." When there was no reaction, Takagi continued.

"In other fronts, our plans for China continue on schedule. The Chinese Army appears to be in dissary and is attempting to regroup. On the Indo-China border, Chinese units have fled the field without a fight."

"Taisho Terauchi reports that the British are still fleeing in a disorderly manner towards Singapore. 38th Division has made some progress at Hong Kong, but the defenders are still offering stiff resistance. Taisho Terauchi does report that in an late evening push our forces did managed to push the British defenders of Hong Kong out of one of their fortified positions, it appears they fell back to another position that had been prepared for this event."

"Taisho Yamamoto reports that our submarine forces have been very active in the last 24 hours, claiming an estimated 26,000 tons of enemy shipping. Also, light cruiser Naka appears to have safely made it to home port and repairs to the ship will begin immediately. Taisho Yamamoto reports that a fleet repair ship will be sent to aid in the repairs."