OB Error: Where is the BP 1???

[Sid]

Although a Japan specialist, I decided to try a game as the Allies. Immediately, I notice that the BM 1 is missing from Noumea!!
This is 1 er Battaillion du Pacifique. It formed in May 1941. It's manpower was 600 and it was mixed European and locals. In the summer of 1942 it was amalgamated with 1 er BIM to become the BIMP [Which I assume is something like Battaillion d'Inf. de Marine du Pacifique]. This would mean a TO&E of about 1070. These were pure light infantry formations, short on heavy weapons. A company of three platoons was about 150 men. Each platoon would have three squads of about 14 men organized around an LMG. The platoon would have a leader, a sergeant and a medic, about 45 men. The Company would be 3 platoons, a Machine Gun Section and a Headquarters Section. The Machine Gun section would typically have 2 MMG. The battalion BM had three line companies while the BIMP had five. Each had the equal of a Headquarters and Support Company, with the usual staff, medics, etc. as well as a Mortar Section. The BIM must also have had a light anti-tank section as it fought in the desert with the British 7th Armored Division from 1 May 1941 until summer 1942 when it joined the BP - so the BP probably had these guns from its formation. This was a militia force, led by a cadre of veterans, and it might have had some advantages in the Pacific Islands. A number of volunteers from Tahiti were part of this organization.

[Ron Saueracker]

I think there was a french contre torpellieur stationed in Noumea as well. LE FANTASTIQUE I think. Not that it matters a hoot. From my readings, the French in Noumea were more of a hindrance than an ally, resenting the American military presence there. Hard to believe given the situation.:rolleyes:

[Titan]

[Ron Saueracker]

Hey TITAN, what are you smiling about?:D

[Rich Dionne]

Thanks Sid,

I'll see what we can do.

Regards,

Rich Dionne

[Sid]

The situation on New Caledonia, as in much of the French empire, was complex. The peacetime governor was pro Vichy, but Australian cruiser Adelaide forced him to change sides. Much more a factor was American misbehavior re natives, esp. mine workers - in my view as bad as many enemy behaviors. As well, logistics was nowhere on Earth more obviously out of sync with reality - ships would often ride at anchor in Noumea for half a year waiting for cargos because too many ships were sent (etc). The Battalion Pacifique actually did fight rather well -- in Africa in May 1942 - which explains why you don't have them at Noumea!!! . They were part of a composite Brigade that took on three divisions under Rommel at bir Hakeim, and won decisively! In fact, the reason the Americal division was so named was "in honor of their warm welcome."