With my Reluctant Admiral Campaign against Michael stopping, I wanted to find another opponent so the Mod could be fully explored. AdmNelson (Lew Nelson) rose to the challenge. We have re-started the Campaign and agreed to most of the House Rules Michael and I were using:
John vs. Lew
RA 2b
1. 1st turn can have multiple port attacks, but ONLY from carriers. Manila and Singapore may have Fighters up and on CAP. Cannot transfer new Squadrons reflecting prior knowledge.
2. PPs to move out of national borders (Japan - Manchuria, Thai) and (Allies - India, China)
3. No strategic bombing (Oil, Resources, HI, LI, etc.) on EITHER side until July 1943
4. Manila subs can form TF based on a date/time stamp (use the last digit in a pre-determined e-mail). Since this may be the second port attack, the last digit in the time (hh:mm:ss) is used to determine how many subs can form TF (anywhere from 1-9 SS can be formed up).
5. Non-historic 1st turn, normal reinforcements, PDUs ON, orders for TF formed already OK, no transfers
6. Offensive operations in jungle and mountain hexes on the Burmese front should be stopped from June 1st to November 1st for the Monsoon Season, allowing R&R, unit rotations, and give both players on the front a much less bloody (and much more interesting) experience. This would mean:
- No deliberate or shock attack in the jungle hexs in the designated area
- Bombardment attacks are still allowed
- Movement into friendly or empty hexes are still allowed
- No offensive air ops from or against the Burmese front hex (recon still allowed)
- No offensive carrier operations in the Gulf of Bengal against Burma (other naval ops, including bombardment, are still allowed). Striking either Bengal, Northern India or Malaya from carriers in the Gulf is still allowed, of course.
Hexes would be corresponding to everything above the "Thailand" label within Burmese and Thailandese borders + the few jungle hexes going 3 or 4 hexes into "India" (Kohima, Ledo, Imphal area)
7. Night Bombing must have 50% Moonlight through the end of 1943. Starting January 1, 1944 Night Bombing may occur in any condition.
8. Aircraft Limitations (reflecting the Mod):
-No A6M3 on CVEs
-No A6M4 on any form of Carrier
9. Combat altitude with fighters only from:
--Dec 1941- May 1942 20,000
--June 1942-Dec 1942 25,000
--1943 28,000
--1944 31,000
--1945 Whatever
All other Aircraft below 20k (except Recon and 4EB)
10. Four-Engine Bombers:
a. 4e bombers restricted to 10k or higher for naval attacks (does not include PBY/Mavis type patrol craft)
b. 4e bombers CANNOT bomb troops
AdmNelson is an experienced player with whom I have no real knowledge of so this should make the beginning of the Campaign very different. Don't know how aggressive he is or what his play style is so it should be enjoyable...
Days of Infamy: Japanese Side
Moderators: wdolson, MOD_War-in-the-Pacific-Admirals-Edition
Days of Infamy: Japanese Side
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Opening
We have already gotten a couple of turns in and I shall cover the initial moves:
Pearl Harbor Attack
The attack was carried out by a 5 CV TF striking from the traditional NNW position on the 7th. The Strike was conducted by 85 Zero, 120 Val, and 96 Kate. As seemingly normal a Daitai of Kates did not attack the American Fleet. Results were certainly better then my Opening against Michael:
Arizona
1 800Kg--3 250Kg--3 TT--Heavy Damage
Pennsylvania
1 250Kg--Totally Operational
Maryland
2 800Kg--1 250Kg--On Fire
West Virginia
2 800Kb--2 TT--Heavy Damage
Oklahoma
2 800Kg--5 250Kg--6 TT--SUNK!
Nevada
1 800Kg--3 250Kg--1 TT--On Fire
California
3 800Kg--1 250Kg--1 TT--Heavy Damage
Tennessee
1 800Kg--3 250Kg
CA/CL
San Fransisco
1 800Kg--On Fire
New Orleans
1 250Kg--2 TT--Heavy Damage
Raleigh
2 TT--Heavy Damage
Phoenix
1 TT--On Fire
St. Louis
1 250Kg
Other Ships: 2 DD, 1 DM, and 1 PC sunk
Ha-22 got into the Harbor and planted a Torp into West Virginia (COOL!) and the attack only cost the Japanese 4 Val and 5 Kates. Not too bad for the start. Looks like one or perhaps two US BB available for action...
Manila Strike
I ordered a rendezvous for Kaga, Ryujo, Zuiho, Shoho, and the 2 CVE three hexes east of Manila. From that point they launched 74 Zero, 39 Val, and 63 Kate at the Port. Excellent results were obtained during the attack:
SS Pickerel, Seawolf, Pike, and S-41 were sunk
12 more Subs were hit in the attack
Over a dozen other ships were hit
Pearl Harbor Attack
The attack was carried out by a 5 CV TF striking from the traditional NNW position on the 7th. The Strike was conducted by 85 Zero, 120 Val, and 96 Kate. As seemingly normal a Daitai of Kates did not attack the American Fleet. Results were certainly better then my Opening against Michael:
Arizona
1 800Kg--3 250Kg--3 TT--Heavy Damage
Pennsylvania
1 250Kg--Totally Operational
Maryland
2 800Kg--1 250Kg--On Fire
West Virginia
2 800Kb--2 TT--Heavy Damage
Oklahoma
2 800Kg--5 250Kg--6 TT--SUNK!
Nevada
1 800Kg--3 250Kg--1 TT--On Fire
California
3 800Kg--1 250Kg--1 TT--Heavy Damage
Tennessee
1 800Kg--3 250Kg
CA/CL
San Fransisco
1 800Kg--On Fire
New Orleans
1 250Kg--2 TT--Heavy Damage
Raleigh
2 TT--Heavy Damage
Phoenix
1 TT--On Fire
St. Louis
1 250Kg
Other Ships: 2 DD, 1 DM, and 1 PC sunk
Ha-22 got into the Harbor and planted a Torp into West Virginia (COOL!) and the attack only cost the Japanese 4 Val and 5 Kates. Not too bad for the start. Looks like one or perhaps two US BB available for action...
Manila Strike
I ordered a rendezvous for Kaga, Ryujo, Zuiho, Shoho, and the 2 CVE three hexes east of Manila. From that point they launched 74 Zero, 39 Val, and 63 Kate at the Port. Excellent results were obtained during the attack:
SS Pickerel, Seawolf, Pike, and S-41 were sunk
12 more Subs were hit in the attack
Over a dozen other ships were hit
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
December 7-9, 1941
Beyond the Port Attacks, I have opted for what I was trying to achieve in the earlier PBEM. I want a fast capture of Luzon, early thrust into Burma, and quick taking of Java. I'll report in by Theatre:
Philippines
Manila
In addition to the Port getting hit Day One by the CVs, the AF is pounded each day and Betty's fly in on the 8th and 9th. The damage wrought by the initial Port Strike continues as two more US SS (Shark and Sailfish) sink on the 8th, another SS (Snapper) goes down on the 9th. A number of AK and other ships continue to be hit. P-40s try to fly CAP but they--for the most part--are brushed aside for the attacks.
Luzon AF
Iba, Clark, and Bataan are hit each of the opening days with solid results obtained. The AF are all 65% damaged or higher.
Landing Sites
I am landing at San Fernando and Atimonan for the pincers movement into the Manila--Clark--Bataan triangle. Four Inf Div are assigned to these assaults. We SHOULD clear the area quite quickly. This is the plan at least...
Thundering Herd
The CVs and STF sink many Allied ships (as normal) as they flee the Philippines. The Combined TF sink: 2 DDs, 11 AKL, 2 AK, 1 AP, 3 PG, 2 AM, 1 AS, 1 AVD, and 1 TK. More are soon to follow...
Malaya
All Malay AF are hit hard over these days. There is resistance as British Bombers and Fighters either defend their AF or attack the Japanese Invasion Fleets. The normal dropping off of troops occur at Singora and Pattani. My first major landing is at Kota Bharu. It falls on the 9th. The troops that landed their are now reloading to grab Kuantan.
Will advance from Singora to Alor Star and proceed south. Don't know if Lew will defend the north or central Malaya area or not. If it looks like he is going to fight, then I will keep him focused up there and try to lop off the base at Mersing.
Paras take Victoria Point and Merqui. Will reorganize them and capture Port Blair in a few days.
Central--South Pacific
Truk
Troops depart for Kavieng, Rabaul, and Lae.
Marshalls
Wake Invasion Force has departed.
Baker is about to be taken.
In the process of grabbing Ocean, Nauru, etc...
Kido Butai
The Carriers depart SW towards Jaluit. I will split off Soryu--Hiryu for Northern Operation and leave Akagi, Shokaku, and Zuikaku to spearhead operations in the South and SE Pacific.
Northern Lights
For something totally different, I am going to move strongly into the Aleutians. I bought out the Imperial Guards Brigade on Turn One and they are already at Paramushiro Jima. CarDiv2 will move North to provide the Cover for operations. Figure two weeks to gather everything at this base, expand it, and then launch the assault. Plan to grab Dutch Harbor west and then maybe move into Kodiak. Might be able to force the attritional fight up here for a while to divert attention from the south.
SS Action
It would appear that the Japanese I-Boats are following their original pre-war training. They seem to be focusing on Allied warships. Here are the initial attacks:
Dec 8th
I-122 sinks two in one Day! AK Demodocus and TK Strix east of Palembang
I-8 sinks CL Concord between Pago Pago and Suva with two Torps
I-123 hits CA Houston with 1 Torp east of Tarakan
Dec 9th
I-154 finishes CA Houston with 3 Torps (out of a spread of six) NE of Balikpapan
Philippines
Manila
In addition to the Port getting hit Day One by the CVs, the AF is pounded each day and Betty's fly in on the 8th and 9th. The damage wrought by the initial Port Strike continues as two more US SS (Shark and Sailfish) sink on the 8th, another SS (Snapper) goes down on the 9th. A number of AK and other ships continue to be hit. P-40s try to fly CAP but they--for the most part--are brushed aside for the attacks.
Luzon AF
Iba, Clark, and Bataan are hit each of the opening days with solid results obtained. The AF are all 65% damaged or higher.
Landing Sites
I am landing at San Fernando and Atimonan for the pincers movement into the Manila--Clark--Bataan triangle. Four Inf Div are assigned to these assaults. We SHOULD clear the area quite quickly. This is the plan at least...
Thundering Herd
The CVs and STF sink many Allied ships (as normal) as they flee the Philippines. The Combined TF sink: 2 DDs, 11 AKL, 2 AK, 1 AP, 3 PG, 2 AM, 1 AS, 1 AVD, and 1 TK. More are soon to follow...
Malaya
All Malay AF are hit hard over these days. There is resistance as British Bombers and Fighters either defend their AF or attack the Japanese Invasion Fleets. The normal dropping off of troops occur at Singora and Pattani. My first major landing is at Kota Bharu. It falls on the 9th. The troops that landed their are now reloading to grab Kuantan.
Will advance from Singora to Alor Star and proceed south. Don't know if Lew will defend the north or central Malaya area or not. If it looks like he is going to fight, then I will keep him focused up there and try to lop off the base at Mersing.
Paras take Victoria Point and Merqui. Will reorganize them and capture Port Blair in a few days.
Central--South Pacific
Truk
Troops depart for Kavieng, Rabaul, and Lae.
Marshalls
Wake Invasion Force has departed.
Baker is about to be taken.
In the process of grabbing Ocean, Nauru, etc...
Kido Butai
The Carriers depart SW towards Jaluit. I will split off Soryu--Hiryu for Northern Operation and leave Akagi, Shokaku, and Zuikaku to spearhead operations in the South and SE Pacific.
Northern Lights
For something totally different, I am going to move strongly into the Aleutians. I bought out the Imperial Guards Brigade on Turn One and they are already at Paramushiro Jima. CarDiv2 will move North to provide the Cover for operations. Figure two weeks to gather everything at this base, expand it, and then launch the assault. Plan to grab Dutch Harbor west and then maybe move into Kodiak. Might be able to force the attritional fight up here for a while to divert attention from the south.
SS Action
It would appear that the Japanese I-Boats are following their original pre-war training. They seem to be focusing on Allied warships. Here are the initial attacks:
Dec 8th
I-122 sinks two in one Day! AK Demodocus and TK Strix east of Palembang
I-8 sinks CL Concord between Pago Pago and Suva with two Torps
I-123 hits CA Houston with 1 Torp east of Tarakan
Dec 9th
I-154 finishes CA Houston with 3 Torps (out of a spread of six) NE of Balikpapan
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
12-10-41
No major developments during the December 10th Turn so I'll keep it fairly simple:
North Pacific
Convoys beginning to arrive at Paramushiro Jima bringing Construction units, Base Forces, and more engineers. Will have a group of older vessels forming the defensive corps of the STF. Should be 1 CL and 11 DD plus the CarDiv whenever it arrives.
Central Pacific
Wake Invasion Force moving along.
The Baker IF will meet another TF in a couple of days to form up and take Canton. I figure 3 SNLF (180 Assault) SHOULD be enough to do that job. This Invasion will be covered by the KB just incase the Americans get fisky.
Nauru is taken and that TF now moves towards Ocean.
South Pacific
The Lae, Rabaul, and Kavieng TF are well on their way to landing at their chosen objectives. An I-Boat smashed the HMNZS Achilles with 2 Torps at Port Moresby. I elect to send a Strike Force of 3 CA and 2 DD to attack any shipping at that base.
My CVE TF is about two days from Truk where they will refuel and re-provision and then move south to Cover further movements.
Philippines
San Fernando falls to the 21st Inf Div. I order in three more TF for unloading over 70,000 troops. Move a large Daitai of Zeros, 9 Kate, 9 Val, and some Army bombers to keep up pressure on Manila and attack any shipping still in the area.
Land at Vigan as well with 3 TK Reg who will rapidly capture Luzon.
Cagayan gets bombarded by two CA who destroy a couple of planes on the ground, inflict nearly 200 casualties, put 43 holes in the Runway, but most interestingly cause--GET THIS--371 Fires to start. Wow.
Hong Kong
The 104th Inf Div adds it weight to the assault. The entire force located at its starting point now gets orders to move on Hong Kong. This city will fall quickly.
In an interesting development Lew has kept a number of ships in HK harbor. Perhaps he hoped I would miss that? Well...I don't...a number of bombers hit the Port and severely damage well over half-a-dozen ships and sink an AKL.
KB-3
The Kaga spots a group of ships sailing along the northern edge of Borneo and dispatches 12 Zero, 13 Val, and 30 Kate to sink 2 AK, an AM, and an AO.
The other two CVL move towards Kendari in an attempt to find targets there.
Malaya
Kota Bharu provides aircover for the Kuantan Invasion Force. Nearly 40 Fighters provide CAP and they shot down a number of Hudson, Blenheim, Buffalo, and Swordfish during the day. Nearly 20 British planes fall while trying to inflict damage. Will land at Kuantan tomorrow.
SS Action
Ro-63 plants two Torps into CL Achilles at Port Moresby. Odds are it sank.
KXV sinks the damaged DD Murasame
S-36 sinks an xAK and gets creamed (9 hits) by Japanese ASW
North Pacific
Convoys beginning to arrive at Paramushiro Jima bringing Construction units, Base Forces, and more engineers. Will have a group of older vessels forming the defensive corps of the STF. Should be 1 CL and 11 DD plus the CarDiv whenever it arrives.
Central Pacific
Wake Invasion Force moving along.
The Baker IF will meet another TF in a couple of days to form up and take Canton. I figure 3 SNLF (180 Assault) SHOULD be enough to do that job. This Invasion will be covered by the KB just incase the Americans get fisky.
Nauru is taken and that TF now moves towards Ocean.
South Pacific
The Lae, Rabaul, and Kavieng TF are well on their way to landing at their chosen objectives. An I-Boat smashed the HMNZS Achilles with 2 Torps at Port Moresby. I elect to send a Strike Force of 3 CA and 2 DD to attack any shipping at that base.
My CVE TF is about two days from Truk where they will refuel and re-provision and then move south to Cover further movements.
Philippines
San Fernando falls to the 21st Inf Div. I order in three more TF for unloading over 70,000 troops. Move a large Daitai of Zeros, 9 Kate, 9 Val, and some Army bombers to keep up pressure on Manila and attack any shipping still in the area.
Land at Vigan as well with 3 TK Reg who will rapidly capture Luzon.
Cagayan gets bombarded by two CA who destroy a couple of planes on the ground, inflict nearly 200 casualties, put 43 holes in the Runway, but most interestingly cause--GET THIS--371 Fires to start. Wow.
Hong Kong
The 104th Inf Div adds it weight to the assault. The entire force located at its starting point now gets orders to move on Hong Kong. This city will fall quickly.
In an interesting development Lew has kept a number of ships in HK harbor. Perhaps he hoped I would miss that? Well...I don't...a number of bombers hit the Port and severely damage well over half-a-dozen ships and sink an AKL.
KB-3
The Kaga spots a group of ships sailing along the northern edge of Borneo and dispatches 12 Zero, 13 Val, and 30 Kate to sink 2 AK, an AM, and an AO.
The other two CVL move towards Kendari in an attempt to find targets there.
Malaya
Kota Bharu provides aircover for the Kuantan Invasion Force. Nearly 40 Fighters provide CAP and they shot down a number of Hudson, Blenheim, Buffalo, and Swordfish during the day. Nearly 20 British planes fall while trying to inflict damage. Will land at Kuantan tomorrow.
SS Action
Ro-63 plants two Torps into CL Achilles at Port Moresby. Odds are it sank.
KXV sinks the damaged DD Murasame
S-36 sinks an xAK and gets creamed (9 hits) by Japanese ASW
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
December 11-12, 1941
It is important to always remember as the Japanese that humility and humbleness are important traits of the Samurai. The previous two days of the war has demonstrated a sharp lesson in this area for the Imperial High Command.
We are fighting an opponent who is, perhaps, cut from the same bolt of cloth. He is aggressive and very willing to take risks and losses in return for upsetting the Imperial Timetable of Conquest. In this goal he has been highly successful over the last two turns.
North Pacific
The concentration of Shipping and Troops is really starting to occur at Paramushiro Jima. Operation Northern Light should commence about Dec 25th or so with landings scheduled throughout the Aleutians in early January.
Central Pacific
The Empire has taken Nauru and Guam with Forces moving towards Wake, Canton, and Lunga.
In an early indication of things to come, the American Heavy Cruiser Pensacola appeared from the South and attacked shipping at Jaluit. It then headed for Wake. The Raid sank a PB and AK as well as damaged two more AK. As the CA moved north a group of 12 Zero and 11 Betty attacked it from Roi-Namur. A single Torpedo was put into the vessel and it is now at Wake.
The Wake IF has been recalled for three days as a STF (1 Cl and 4 DD) move in to finish off the cruiser. Additionally CARDIV2 has been ordered into the vacinity to 'deal' with any other surprises that might be lurking...
It should be noted that CARDIV2 sank two large APs (President Coolidge and Hugh Scott) to the direct east of the Marshalls. Rather strange location. Makes me wonder if he is trying to pull out the Wake Garrison. Cool idea. I've often thought about it myself.
As the TF gather to attack Canton, KB-1 moves south to provide Cover and punch. CVs Akagi, Shokaku, and Zuikaku are ready to inflict PAIN if something appears...
South Pacific
On the 11th landings begin at Kavieng, Rabaul, and Lae. There is scattered resistance in the form of Hudsons. Kavieng falls on the 12th and Rabaul's Fort are dropped to zero on the same day. It and Lae will fall on the 13th. A Zero Chutai and a Betty Daitai wait at Truk to move in ASAP.
Shipping is spotted at PM and the Cover Force (3 CA and 3 DD) of the Rabaul IF is pulled to attack the targets. This proves to be a costly MISTAKE on my part. Two Cruiser Forces must pass each other during the night. Luckily my TF has fully unloaded when CA Canberra and CLs Perth and Leander appear. What follows is totally depressing.
The Patrol Cruiser Kashima bravely interposes herself to no avail. She, 5 PB, 2 AMc, 5 AK, and a CM are sunk. This is an expensive lesson relearned to not go out 'hunting' when you don't KNOW what is in the area!
Very bold and nice move my Adm Nelson. His stocks ticks up in the fiendishness department.
Time to go Home. I'll update the rest of the action in a little while.
We are fighting an opponent who is, perhaps, cut from the same bolt of cloth. He is aggressive and very willing to take risks and losses in return for upsetting the Imperial Timetable of Conquest. In this goal he has been highly successful over the last two turns.
North Pacific
The concentration of Shipping and Troops is really starting to occur at Paramushiro Jima. Operation Northern Light should commence about Dec 25th or so with landings scheduled throughout the Aleutians in early January.
Central Pacific
The Empire has taken Nauru and Guam with Forces moving towards Wake, Canton, and Lunga.
In an early indication of things to come, the American Heavy Cruiser Pensacola appeared from the South and attacked shipping at Jaluit. It then headed for Wake. The Raid sank a PB and AK as well as damaged two more AK. As the CA moved north a group of 12 Zero and 11 Betty attacked it from Roi-Namur. A single Torpedo was put into the vessel and it is now at Wake.
The Wake IF has been recalled for three days as a STF (1 Cl and 4 DD) move in to finish off the cruiser. Additionally CARDIV2 has been ordered into the vacinity to 'deal' with any other surprises that might be lurking...
It should be noted that CARDIV2 sank two large APs (President Coolidge and Hugh Scott) to the direct east of the Marshalls. Rather strange location. Makes me wonder if he is trying to pull out the Wake Garrison. Cool idea. I've often thought about it myself.
As the TF gather to attack Canton, KB-1 moves south to provide Cover and punch. CVs Akagi, Shokaku, and Zuikaku are ready to inflict PAIN if something appears...
South Pacific
On the 11th landings begin at Kavieng, Rabaul, and Lae. There is scattered resistance in the form of Hudsons. Kavieng falls on the 12th and Rabaul's Fort are dropped to zero on the same day. It and Lae will fall on the 13th. A Zero Chutai and a Betty Daitai wait at Truk to move in ASAP.
Shipping is spotted at PM and the Cover Force (3 CA and 3 DD) of the Rabaul IF is pulled to attack the targets. This proves to be a costly MISTAKE on my part. Two Cruiser Forces must pass each other during the night. Luckily my TF has fully unloaded when CA Canberra and CLs Perth and Leander appear. What follows is totally depressing.
The Patrol Cruiser Kashima bravely interposes herself to no avail. She, 5 PB, 2 AMc, 5 AK, and a CM are sunk. This is an expensive lesson relearned to not go out 'hunting' when you don't KNOW what is in the area!
Very bold and nice move my Adm Nelson. His stocks ticks up in the fiendishness department.
Time to go Home. I'll update the rest of the action in a little while.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
December 11-12, 1941--Part Two
Philippines
The Japanese grabbed San Fernando on the 10th and Vigan falls to 3 TK Reg on the 11th. Atimonan is landed upon on the 12th and it will fall tomorrow. The build-up is gaining steam. Most of my convoys have returned for their second lift of support and Construction units. As can be expected there is plenty of supply arriving.
I'll transfer all the air I intend to use for attacking the islands within the next few days. Manila continues to be a feeding ground for both the Phil Air Force and damaged shipping. The 12th conformed SS sinking occurs on the 11th with S-37 perminently put down. All of his P-40s are trying to due anything possible to protect these damaged ships but to no avail. I moved a large Daitai of Zero and Oscars to San Fernando and they are grinding down the American Fighters.
Not enough time has passed to see what he'll choose to defend in Luzon. That should clear up within 2-3 days I imagine.
Malaya
Not quite sure what to make of Malaya at the moment. Using Kota Bharu for a CAP base, I lift the 3 Inf Reg that captured that base and move them to Kuantan. British aircraft attack both days but they are scredded by Tojo, Oscars, and Zeros. Kuantan falls on the 12th and a large Base Force is now unloading there. I'll move Fighters to this base and attack Singapore directly. No building of Forts is allowed.
There are 4 units in Alor Star and it looks like he intends to fight there. All I have are two Inf Reg, 2 TK Reg, and some minor troops moving that direction. If he is not concentrating to the south, I may try another Amphib Hook and try for Mersing for the Gambit. If he is smart there will be 3-4 units there. If not...
Western DEI
There are ships at that small base NE of Brunei. These are spotted on the 11th and a CA--DD TF is sent to bag them.
My landing at Singakwang begins on the 12th. Suddenly I spot a STF SE of Palembang, another 2 hexes SE of Singkawang, and a third NW of Singkawang. Suddenly have fears of Prince of Wales appearing on scene. The troops are unloaded at the end of the day so I order the TF to move away--just in case.
DISASTER--My TF carrying the entire 4th Inf Div moves TOO close to Singkawang and a force of nearly 20 Vildebeests attack. The dice Gods roll with the Allies in the morning and afternoon attacks! I lose 4 AK and 1 AKL to bombs as well as nearly 2,000 troops. CRAP! I had planned to stop the TF at a range of 5 hexes above Singakwang. Instead, I forget to make the Order and it sails to a range of 3 hexes and PRESTO--Vildebeest Hell. Not good. It isn't terrible but it does crimp things up some. Nice work on my Opponent's side of the coin. I assumed--yes I know--that all the Brit Aircraft were in Malaya.
I order the TF back to safety and wait for the Aerial Cavalry. Think there are enough troops ashore at Singkawang to take it. If so, advance the Fighter Line. If not, we wait for Kaga and help.
Central DEI
Everything here looks good as Tarakan will be invaded on the 12th and Balikpapan on the 14th. Both will fall and the Central corridor will be open to Java.
Eastern DEI
The word/ship most feared by the Japanese appears on Dec 11th at Ternate. CL Boise attacks a convoy preparing to land here and manages to nearly wipeout the whole group of ships. 4 AK and 3 AKL are sunk by 6" salvos. The Invasion Force is driven off and will try again in a few days.
Boise has a charmed day as the Zuiho and Shoho (only 3 hexes from her) get socked in by bad weather and cannot fly a sortie. Boise escapes for the minute having inflicted a nasty reverse.
As mentioned, Kaga and Ryujo pass by Tarakan and Balikpapan. They make sure no warships are in the area. They will loiter the 13th below Balikpapan and then move around southern Borneo to protect the Palembang IF (4th Inf Div).
SS Action
I-156 near Ceylon sinks AP Australia with 4 TT
Thoughts/Comments
1. I am dealing with an aggressive opponent seeking to upset my timetables with risky, bold moves. They are well done and I am now getting a measure of this new opponent. The realization as to his style leads to immediate changes within my planning.
2. A number of Invasions are stopped, pulled back, and additional escorts are summoned.
3. More thinking and thoroughness are required against this enemy. I am taking longer with the last turn to make sure bases are covered.
4. The loss of shipping is definite and forces me to move ships around to help with my lift capacity. Anyone playing the Japanese know just how tight things can be. The three defeats detailed above (Rabaul, Ternate, and 4th Inf Div TF) serve to make me more cautious.
5. With an aggressive opponent there are also more--shall I say--possibilities for additional damage to be inflicted. We'll seek to do that over the next couple of turns.
Thoughts from the Gallery?
Does anyone know Adm Nelson?
The Japanese grabbed San Fernando on the 10th and Vigan falls to 3 TK Reg on the 11th. Atimonan is landed upon on the 12th and it will fall tomorrow. The build-up is gaining steam. Most of my convoys have returned for their second lift of support and Construction units. As can be expected there is plenty of supply arriving.
I'll transfer all the air I intend to use for attacking the islands within the next few days. Manila continues to be a feeding ground for both the Phil Air Force and damaged shipping. The 12th conformed SS sinking occurs on the 11th with S-37 perminently put down. All of his P-40s are trying to due anything possible to protect these damaged ships but to no avail. I moved a large Daitai of Zero and Oscars to San Fernando and they are grinding down the American Fighters.
Not enough time has passed to see what he'll choose to defend in Luzon. That should clear up within 2-3 days I imagine.
Malaya
Not quite sure what to make of Malaya at the moment. Using Kota Bharu for a CAP base, I lift the 3 Inf Reg that captured that base and move them to Kuantan. British aircraft attack both days but they are scredded by Tojo, Oscars, and Zeros. Kuantan falls on the 12th and a large Base Force is now unloading there. I'll move Fighters to this base and attack Singapore directly. No building of Forts is allowed.
There are 4 units in Alor Star and it looks like he intends to fight there. All I have are two Inf Reg, 2 TK Reg, and some minor troops moving that direction. If he is not concentrating to the south, I may try another Amphib Hook and try for Mersing for the Gambit. If he is smart there will be 3-4 units there. If not...
Western DEI
There are ships at that small base NE of Brunei. These are spotted on the 11th and a CA--DD TF is sent to bag them.
My landing at Singakwang begins on the 12th. Suddenly I spot a STF SE of Palembang, another 2 hexes SE of Singkawang, and a third NW of Singkawang. Suddenly have fears of Prince of Wales appearing on scene. The troops are unloaded at the end of the day so I order the TF to move away--just in case.
DISASTER--My TF carrying the entire 4th Inf Div moves TOO close to Singkawang and a force of nearly 20 Vildebeests attack. The dice Gods roll with the Allies in the morning and afternoon attacks! I lose 4 AK and 1 AKL to bombs as well as nearly 2,000 troops. CRAP! I had planned to stop the TF at a range of 5 hexes above Singakwang. Instead, I forget to make the Order and it sails to a range of 3 hexes and PRESTO--Vildebeest Hell. Not good. It isn't terrible but it does crimp things up some. Nice work on my Opponent's side of the coin. I assumed--yes I know--that all the Brit Aircraft were in Malaya.
I order the TF back to safety and wait for the Aerial Cavalry. Think there are enough troops ashore at Singkawang to take it. If so, advance the Fighter Line. If not, we wait for Kaga and help.
Central DEI
Everything here looks good as Tarakan will be invaded on the 12th and Balikpapan on the 14th. Both will fall and the Central corridor will be open to Java.
Eastern DEI
The word/ship most feared by the Japanese appears on Dec 11th at Ternate. CL Boise attacks a convoy preparing to land here and manages to nearly wipeout the whole group of ships. 4 AK and 3 AKL are sunk by 6" salvos. The Invasion Force is driven off and will try again in a few days.
Boise has a charmed day as the Zuiho and Shoho (only 3 hexes from her) get socked in by bad weather and cannot fly a sortie. Boise escapes for the minute having inflicted a nasty reverse.
As mentioned, Kaga and Ryujo pass by Tarakan and Balikpapan. They make sure no warships are in the area. They will loiter the 13th below Balikpapan and then move around southern Borneo to protect the Palembang IF (4th Inf Div).
SS Action
I-156 near Ceylon sinks AP Australia with 4 TT
Thoughts/Comments
1. I am dealing with an aggressive opponent seeking to upset my timetables with risky, bold moves. They are well done and I am now getting a measure of this new opponent. The realization as to his style leads to immediate changes within my planning.
2. A number of Invasions are stopped, pulled back, and additional escorts are summoned.
3. More thinking and thoroughness are required against this enemy. I am taking longer with the last turn to make sure bases are covered.
4. The loss of shipping is definite and forces me to move ships around to help with my lift capacity. Anyone playing the Japanese know just how tight things can be. The three defeats detailed above (Rabaul, Ternate, and 4th Inf Div TF) serve to make me more cautious.
5. With an aggressive opponent there are also more--shall I say--possibilities for additional damage to be inflicted. We'll seek to do that over the next couple of turns.
Thoughts from the Gallery?
Does anyone know Adm Nelson?
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
RE: December 11-12, 1941--Part Two
Best way vs an Aggressive opponent is to seize some key points but ahead fo schedule points with significant force ( eg PM , Timor) . You can then take all the less important bases under cover of LBA , if he persists in being aggressive it will cost him. Forget using KB for raids or killing shipping , establish some outposts then you are free again.
Underdog Fanboy
RE: December 11-12, 1941--Part Two
Thoughts from the Gallery?
Does anyone know Adm Nelson?
Also up aginst an aggresive foe!
Invade like midway perhaps with the main bulk of your Sub.
And ofc KB hoppefully he will bring his CVs around.
Good luck!
Amateurs study tactics, professionals study logistics.
"All warfare is based on deception. There is no place where espionage is not used. Offer the enemy bait to lure him."
"All warfare is based on deception. There is no place where espionage is not used. Offer the enemy bait to lure him."
RE: December 11-12, 1941--Part Two
I've yet to see a US CV. If they appear then I KNOW he is extremely aggressive. Cannot wait to see!
I love this aggressive stance by an Allied commander. REALLY has a chance to upend all sorts of thinking.
Got the current turn and am now running it.
I love this aggressive stance by an Allied commander. REALLY has a chance to upend all sorts of thinking.
Got the current turn and am now running it.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Dec 13-15, 1941
The history of World War Two is all about move and counter-move. Learning to anticipate your opponent and being flexible are important traits to. It has taken a few turns to adjust my thinking but I believe I now have a feel for my adversary and have done a far better job of changing my moves on-the-fly.
After the severe set-backs on Dec 11th and 12th, the Japanese get their feet under them again and manage to land some serious blows against the Americans and their Allies. This is not to say that I won't be surprised again--that is inevitable--I am simply saying that my play has undergone a bit of 'adjustment.'
Here is my three day Combat Report:
North Pacific
All troops finish unloading in Paramushiro Jima on the 15th. There is now roughly 400 Assault Strength gathered for the move into the Aleutians. I need to wait for the arrival of CARDIV2 before launching the Operation. Since Hiryu and Soryu are presently at Wake, I anticipate about 10 days before the assault shipping can move out. The weather will be terrible but NOW is time for relatively cheap victories up there before he has time to reinforce the outposts.
Central Pacific
Wake
The Invasion Force (roughly 5,000 troops) marks time after the appearance of CA Pensacola at the Atoll. The F4Fs have not been taken off the base so they are still a factor. I move the Invasion Fleet to a point of 5 hexes SW of Wake.
CARDIV2
Hiryu and Soryu, with 2 BC, 1 CL, and 8 DD, move NW to clear the seas of any immediate surface threats. In this move they are imminently successful. Three day tally:
On the 13th they find and sink a lone DMS at sea.
The 14th finds them squarely between the Pensacola to the NW and the Indianapolis TF to the NE. Yamaguchi elects to attack both targets and he manages to sink both CA and 3 DMS. NICE!
The 15th puts them three hexes east of Wake where they perform a Sweep by 12 Zeros that bag 3 F4F.
They now move to provide direct Cover as I order the Invasion Force in. The Landing shall be on the 17th and it will be preceeded by my 2 BC bombarding the Atoll. Expect CARDIV2 to stay in position through the 17th and then head for Paramushiro Jima for fuel, planes, and pilots...
Canton
The Canton IF merges together so that they carry roughly 6,000 men with an Assault Value of roughly 150. It SHOULD be enough to grab the base. The Invasion should be the 18th or 19th and it will be covered by CARDIV5.
Southeast Pacific
I've had SS reports of shipping at Suva for 4 days now so I send Sho, Zui, and Akagi down to investigate. The CVs are not spotted and they are in launching position on the 15th. Two strikes are flown at Suva attacking a group of 3 DD. One American DD is damaged (probably sunk) and the large French DD La Triomphant is also sunk. These CVs will Sweep the sea one more day and then rendezvous with two AOs before Covering the Canton Invasion.
South Pacific
After the defeat inflicted on the Rabaul IF, I order all Japanese shipping back to Kavieng until the seas are better controlled. Lae falls on the 13th along with Kavieng. Rabaul's Fort are dropped to zero and it falls on the 15th.
Port Moresby
Two Cruiser raiding forces must have simply passed each other in the night. As Canberra and the two CLs savage the Japanese Fleet so too does the Japanese CAs manage to inflict a strong reverse on the Allies. The evening of the 13th sees 3 CA and 2 DD surprise a large TF unloading at PM. Though CL Adelaide and AMC Westralia heroically attempt to interpose, they are quickly sank and then down go an AO, 3 xAP, and 2 xAK. Should note that during the fight the AMC planted two hits against DD Uzuki and it sank due to the damage.
This was the TF we created in the Mod allowing the Allied player to raise the garrison of a single South Pacific base. PM now has a full Brigade and several Base Forces as well as 2-3 Squadrons of new Aircraft. It will be a tough nut to crack.
To further confuse AdmNelson, my two CVE arrive NE of New Guinea on the 15th and manage to announce their presence by attacking an AK. He is probably wondering just how many CVs I have right now!
Philippines
Things are really picking up steam here:
1. Antimonan is taken on the 13th. The troops there move towards Batangas and SE towards Legaspi.
2. Laoag falls to a Tank Reg on the 14th.
3. Two Philippine Inf Div are routed out of Lingayen on the 15th. The casualties in this attack were interesting. The Japanese attacked for a 5-1 result and lost 379 men. The Phil ID lose 5,185! Scrap two effective fighting forces in this fight.
A landing at Batangas will happen on the 17th by an Inf Div and 65th Brigade. Hope to catch a couple of units that haven't fallen back into Manila yet.
The second wave is offloading right now. More support troops and Base Force will allow me to transfer all planes from Formosa to Luzon. That should help a bunch.
Malaya
The Allies retreat down the peninsula has been rather tardy. I think my opponent isn't sure where he will fight here. I've got a reinforced Inf Div moving across the peninsula to take Alor Star. Another reinforced Inf Div sits in Kuantan and I am thinking of moving it to Mersing. This will be a risk but I think it might be worth it. NO troops are present at Mersing...
Western DEI
The GREAT VILDEBEEST assault continues to cost the Japanese. After the convoy carrying 4th ID lost nearly 2,000 men to these unknown killers, they manage to--catch this--sink CL Sendai and two DDs! I cannot hit a DD with Vals or Bettys and these Vildebeest sink THREE WARSHIPS! Wow...
The troops that landed at Singakwang on the 12th are just barely enough to take the base on 14th. Oscars and rested Daitai of Betty fly in. As they take the base, the Japanese troops are stunned to see Force Z sitting just offshore!
Kaga
As mentioned before Kaga and CVL Shoho had been ordered to leave the Balikpapan area to help re-assert control over this area of sea. This is done quite effectively.
As they move across Southern Borneo they lay a swath of destruction:
13th--Three Strikes sink 3 AP, 1 AK, 2 AVP, 1 CM, and 1 AG at or around Soerabaja.
14th--Two Strikes hit Force Z. At the end of the day, Prince of Wales takes 8 250Kg Bombs and is 'on Fire' while Repulse gets 6 250 Kg Bombs and 3 TTs.
15th--The TF moves towards Palembang and Batavia where they sink 2 AMC and 3 TK at Palembang. Additionally they sink two ML near Mersing.
Coming back to Force Z, the fall of Singkawang brings all Japanese TF in towards the new base. The first to arrive are BB Fuso and Yamashiro. They find Repulse still there and rapidly--at no cost--sink her with 17 large-caliber shells hits.
Once I see an AKE arrive at Singkawang, the CVs will reload and then Cover the Palembang Landing.
Central DEI
Tarakan
This valuable base falls on the 15th with NO DAMAGE to its facilities!
Tandjoengselor
Located next to Tarakan it goes the same day.
Balikpapan
The Landing of an entire Brigade starts on the 14th and is Covered by a pair of BBs. The base then easily falls on the 15th on a 72-1 attack. The facilities do take some damage (235 Operational with 65 Damaged). Not good but not too bad either.
The troops at Tarakan and Tandj are already loading for the jump to Bandjermasin. We can directly attack Soerabaja at that point.
Should note Brunei fell on the 15th.
Eastern DEI
The defeat inflicted at Ternate has real repercussions. I have little more to send into this region. There are troops but little shipping. Supplies and fuel are unlading at Babeldoap right now and my pair of last CVs (Ryujo and Zuiho) will reprovision before moving South and attacking shipping. There is a large group of AK/AKL coming down from Formosa when they arrive I can begin this set of operations again.
Japanese I-Boats
Ro-65 finishes off CL Achilles near Port Moresby on the 13th
I-155 sinks TK Pinna near Palembang
With my change in tactics the Japanese have a pretty good set of days. Total losses for the three days are: BC Repulse, CA Pensacola and Indianapolis, CL Adelaide and Achilles, 1 DD, 4 DMS, SS KXI, 3 AMC, 4 TK, 1 AO, 3 AP, 3 AVP, 4 AK, 3 AKL, 1 CM, 1 AG, 1 AM, and 2 ML. Total: 37 Ships.
Japanese Losses are CL Sendai and 3 DD.
Pretty big turn-around. As long as I stay alert and thoughtful with the upcoming operations the chances of major reverses should be much more limited. We'll have to see...
After the severe set-backs on Dec 11th and 12th, the Japanese get their feet under them again and manage to land some serious blows against the Americans and their Allies. This is not to say that I won't be surprised again--that is inevitable--I am simply saying that my play has undergone a bit of 'adjustment.'
Here is my three day Combat Report:
North Pacific
All troops finish unloading in Paramushiro Jima on the 15th. There is now roughly 400 Assault Strength gathered for the move into the Aleutians. I need to wait for the arrival of CARDIV2 before launching the Operation. Since Hiryu and Soryu are presently at Wake, I anticipate about 10 days before the assault shipping can move out. The weather will be terrible but NOW is time for relatively cheap victories up there before he has time to reinforce the outposts.
Central Pacific
Wake
The Invasion Force (roughly 5,000 troops) marks time after the appearance of CA Pensacola at the Atoll. The F4Fs have not been taken off the base so they are still a factor. I move the Invasion Fleet to a point of 5 hexes SW of Wake.
CARDIV2
Hiryu and Soryu, with 2 BC, 1 CL, and 8 DD, move NW to clear the seas of any immediate surface threats. In this move they are imminently successful. Three day tally:
On the 13th they find and sink a lone DMS at sea.
The 14th finds them squarely between the Pensacola to the NW and the Indianapolis TF to the NE. Yamaguchi elects to attack both targets and he manages to sink both CA and 3 DMS. NICE!
The 15th puts them three hexes east of Wake where they perform a Sweep by 12 Zeros that bag 3 F4F.
They now move to provide direct Cover as I order the Invasion Force in. The Landing shall be on the 17th and it will be preceeded by my 2 BC bombarding the Atoll. Expect CARDIV2 to stay in position through the 17th and then head for Paramushiro Jima for fuel, planes, and pilots...
Canton
The Canton IF merges together so that they carry roughly 6,000 men with an Assault Value of roughly 150. It SHOULD be enough to grab the base. The Invasion should be the 18th or 19th and it will be covered by CARDIV5.
Southeast Pacific
I've had SS reports of shipping at Suva for 4 days now so I send Sho, Zui, and Akagi down to investigate. The CVs are not spotted and they are in launching position on the 15th. Two strikes are flown at Suva attacking a group of 3 DD. One American DD is damaged (probably sunk) and the large French DD La Triomphant is also sunk. These CVs will Sweep the sea one more day and then rendezvous with two AOs before Covering the Canton Invasion.
South Pacific
After the defeat inflicted on the Rabaul IF, I order all Japanese shipping back to Kavieng until the seas are better controlled. Lae falls on the 13th along with Kavieng. Rabaul's Fort are dropped to zero and it falls on the 15th.
Port Moresby
Two Cruiser raiding forces must have simply passed each other in the night. As Canberra and the two CLs savage the Japanese Fleet so too does the Japanese CAs manage to inflict a strong reverse on the Allies. The evening of the 13th sees 3 CA and 2 DD surprise a large TF unloading at PM. Though CL Adelaide and AMC Westralia heroically attempt to interpose, they are quickly sank and then down go an AO, 3 xAP, and 2 xAK. Should note that during the fight the AMC planted two hits against DD Uzuki and it sank due to the damage.
This was the TF we created in the Mod allowing the Allied player to raise the garrison of a single South Pacific base. PM now has a full Brigade and several Base Forces as well as 2-3 Squadrons of new Aircraft. It will be a tough nut to crack.
To further confuse AdmNelson, my two CVE arrive NE of New Guinea on the 15th and manage to announce their presence by attacking an AK. He is probably wondering just how many CVs I have right now!
Philippines
Things are really picking up steam here:
1. Antimonan is taken on the 13th. The troops there move towards Batangas and SE towards Legaspi.
2. Laoag falls to a Tank Reg on the 14th.
3. Two Philippine Inf Div are routed out of Lingayen on the 15th. The casualties in this attack were interesting. The Japanese attacked for a 5-1 result and lost 379 men. The Phil ID lose 5,185! Scrap two effective fighting forces in this fight.
A landing at Batangas will happen on the 17th by an Inf Div and 65th Brigade. Hope to catch a couple of units that haven't fallen back into Manila yet.
The second wave is offloading right now. More support troops and Base Force will allow me to transfer all planes from Formosa to Luzon. That should help a bunch.
Malaya
The Allies retreat down the peninsula has been rather tardy. I think my opponent isn't sure where he will fight here. I've got a reinforced Inf Div moving across the peninsula to take Alor Star. Another reinforced Inf Div sits in Kuantan and I am thinking of moving it to Mersing. This will be a risk but I think it might be worth it. NO troops are present at Mersing...
Western DEI
The GREAT VILDEBEEST assault continues to cost the Japanese. After the convoy carrying 4th ID lost nearly 2,000 men to these unknown killers, they manage to--catch this--sink CL Sendai and two DDs! I cannot hit a DD with Vals or Bettys and these Vildebeest sink THREE WARSHIPS! Wow...
The troops that landed at Singakwang on the 12th are just barely enough to take the base on 14th. Oscars and rested Daitai of Betty fly in. As they take the base, the Japanese troops are stunned to see Force Z sitting just offshore!
Kaga
As mentioned before Kaga and CVL Shoho had been ordered to leave the Balikpapan area to help re-assert control over this area of sea. This is done quite effectively.
As they move across Southern Borneo they lay a swath of destruction:
13th--Three Strikes sink 3 AP, 1 AK, 2 AVP, 1 CM, and 1 AG at or around Soerabaja.
14th--Two Strikes hit Force Z. At the end of the day, Prince of Wales takes 8 250Kg Bombs and is 'on Fire' while Repulse gets 6 250 Kg Bombs and 3 TTs.
15th--The TF moves towards Palembang and Batavia where they sink 2 AMC and 3 TK at Palembang. Additionally they sink two ML near Mersing.
Coming back to Force Z, the fall of Singkawang brings all Japanese TF in towards the new base. The first to arrive are BB Fuso and Yamashiro. They find Repulse still there and rapidly--at no cost--sink her with 17 large-caliber shells hits.
Once I see an AKE arrive at Singkawang, the CVs will reload and then Cover the Palembang Landing.
Central DEI
Tarakan
This valuable base falls on the 15th with NO DAMAGE to its facilities!
Tandjoengselor
Located next to Tarakan it goes the same day.
Balikpapan
The Landing of an entire Brigade starts on the 14th and is Covered by a pair of BBs. The base then easily falls on the 15th on a 72-1 attack. The facilities do take some damage (235 Operational with 65 Damaged). Not good but not too bad either.
The troops at Tarakan and Tandj are already loading for the jump to Bandjermasin. We can directly attack Soerabaja at that point.
Should note Brunei fell on the 15th.
Eastern DEI
The defeat inflicted at Ternate has real repercussions. I have little more to send into this region. There are troops but little shipping. Supplies and fuel are unlading at Babeldoap right now and my pair of last CVs (Ryujo and Zuiho) will reprovision before moving South and attacking shipping. There is a large group of AK/AKL coming down from Formosa when they arrive I can begin this set of operations again.
Japanese I-Boats
Ro-65 finishes off CL Achilles near Port Moresby on the 13th
I-155 sinks TK Pinna near Palembang
With my change in tactics the Japanese have a pretty good set of days. Total losses for the three days are: BC Repulse, CA Pensacola and Indianapolis, CL Adelaide and Achilles, 1 DD, 4 DMS, SS KXI, 3 AMC, 4 TK, 1 AO, 3 AP, 3 AVP, 4 AK, 3 AKL, 1 CM, 1 AG, 1 AM, and 2 ML. Total: 37 Ships.
Japanese Losses are CL Sendai and 3 DD.
Pretty big turn-around. As long as I stay alert and thoughtful with the upcoming operations the chances of major reverses should be much more limited. We'll have to see...
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ny59giants
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RE: Dec 13-15, 1941
Port Moresby - I would invade and capture both Milne Bay and Horn Island to isolate. An Air HQ with Nell/Betty go to Milne Bay. Add in a BB TF and/or CV lead air attacks to hit Cairns hard. That is the only base he could use now to get troops in by patrol planes. He can transport them up to Cairns and then fly them in without having to spend PPs to change them over.
Canton Island - Good grab now, but since he is being this aggressive, I would then re-load and invade Christmas Island. I would then ship in an Air HQ with short command radius. Force him to route shipping further east to avoid Nell/Betty. He cannot afford to allow you to stay there without a response. I would also consider taking Midway with some of your troops you have prepping for the Aleutians. Even if you don't have plans to land at Hawaii, force him to dig in deeper there.
Malaya - Is he keeping his LBA there to fight?? If so, then send in strong LB to hit both Port Blair and Sabang (northern tip of Sumatra). Close down both AFs so it is very difficult for him to transfer his shorted legged fighters and TBs north to Burma/India through them. He has limited engineers to repair both AFs.
Canton Island - Good grab now, but since he is being this aggressive, I would then re-load and invade Christmas Island. I would then ship in an Air HQ with short command radius. Force him to route shipping further east to avoid Nell/Betty. He cannot afford to allow you to stay there without a response. I would also consider taking Midway with some of your troops you have prepping for the Aleutians. Even if you don't have plans to land at Hawaii, force him to dig in deeper there.
Malaya - Is he keeping his LBA there to fight?? If so, then send in strong LB to hit both Port Blair and Sabang (northern tip of Sumatra). Close down both AFs so it is very difficult for him to transfer his shorted legged fighters and TBs north to Burma/India through them. He has limited engineers to repair both AFs.
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[/center]RE: Dec 13-15, 1941
A call please Mr. Benoit?
He has kept the aircraft in Malaya and I have been crushing them for most part. He lost 10 Vildebeest when I took Singkawang and another chunk of planes when Balikpapan fell. Kaga and her TF were hit each day by Dutch Fighters and Bombers of which 20 Buffalo and about 10 bombers were shot down.
Christmas Isle is a good idea. Could do that and then sit to see what happens.
I'll isolate PM and then take it once I can get a serious Infantry unit freed up.
He has kept the aircraft in Malaya and I have been crushing them for most part. He lost 10 Vildebeest when I took Singkawang and another chunk of planes when Balikpapan fell. Kaga and her TF were hit each day by Dutch Fighters and Bombers of which 20 Buffalo and about 10 bombers were shot down.
Christmas Isle is a good idea. Could do that and then sit to see what happens.
I'll isolate PM and then take it once I can get a serious Infantry unit freed up.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Kimmel was Right.
The Thread over in the War Room talking about Pearl Harbor, what FDR knew, who was/is to blame provoked some thinking with me a few days ago and I found myself reaching for the good old trusty "At Dawn We Slept" to review some of the above topics. As I was going through that it struck me, yet once again, how Short and Kimmel were sold up the river as the Commanders on-the-spot and how they were blamed for many things that were not their fault.
In reading that I chanced upon Kimmel's musings on the opportunities that might be created for the American Navy if Japan attacked Wake. His vision was the chance to set a trap for the Japanese.
This is all a lead-in for my report on the December 16, 1941 turn.
100 miles SW of Wake
CARDIV2 is comprised of Japan's two smallest heavy carriers the Hiryu and half-sister Soryu. For the previous couple of days this tandem has sunk a pair of American Heavy Cruisers, two large APs, and several destroyer-minesweepers. Their hangars are filled with 42 Zero, 38 Val, and 41 Kate. These planes are piloted by some of the very best pilots in the world. In fact--staring at the XP list prior to the turn--there are nearly 50 pilots with a skill in the 70s or higher. These two carriers are filled with magnificent pilots, highly trained ship crews, and capable leadership. Their escorts are the powerful and fast Battlecruisers Kongo and Haruna as well as a Light Cruiser, and 7 Destroyers.
In the distance the TF can see the Wake Island Invasion Force of 15 vessels carrying over 5,000 Japanese Marines. A small escort TF of 2 CL and 4 DD protect the Invasion Force from any potential harm.
CAP has been launched and the morning searches flown. A small group of 7 Zero have just departed to Sweep Wake Island in the hopes of shooting down more of the Marine Wildcats that defend the base.
The morning serenity is shattered when a search plane--flying from Eniwetok--spots the unmistakable form of an American Carrier 250 miles to the NE. The weather is pretty shaky with thunderheads and heavy clouds but there is no doubt as to the spotting of a Yorktown-Class Carrier. Twenty minutes later yet another carrier--Lexington-Class is spotted 40 miles NE of the first US CV. The Carriers have already turned into the wind and are launching their Strike Planes.
Admiral Yamaguchi Tamon instinctually knows that his two CVs are in deep trouble. He is a warrior, however, and calmly he prepares for battle. He has roughly 20 Zero for Escort and over 70 Strike Aircraft at his command. The orders ring out for Battle Speed and prepare to attack. As the maintenance crews furiously finish arming the aircraft, Hiryu is struck by a horrific calamity. At this moment her entire Circuit Breaker System trips and shuts down. The three large elevators cannot transfer Strike Planes from the hangars to the flight deck. Never before has something like this ever happened and the highly experienced Hiryu crew works at a frantic pace to fix the unbelievable problem.
As American Strike Aircraft close on the Japanese Force, Yamaguchi orders Soryu to launch all it can. Two small Strikes are launched comprising 8 Zero, 20 Val, and 11 Kate. Nothing else gets off the decks of the Japanese CVs before the massed American Strike arrives.
Lexington's Strike arrives first in the form of 10 Buffalo, 35 SBD, and 18 Marine Vindicator bombers. There are 19 Zero in the air to combat the incoming planes. Though the Zeros do well in shooting down 7 Buffalo,4 SBD, and 3 Vind the rest tip over into their dives.
For rookie pilots on the their first ever combat mission their aim is uncannily accurate. Soryu takes 4 1,000lb bombs and immediately goes dead-in-the-water, Hiryu takes 1 1,000lb and 1 500lb bomb but isn't terribly affected, BC Kongo takes 1 1,000lb, BC Haruna is hit by 4 1,000lb, and DD Urakaze takes 2 of the large weapons. Hit rate is just a bit better then 1-in-3...
Before the Japanese can catch their breath, Enterprise's Strike arrives in the form of 8 F4F, 35 SBD, and 15 TBD. The remaining 15 Zeros attack here as well and, once again, do fairly well. They shot down nearly a dozen planes before watching the attack begin over their ships. Soryu takes 3 more 1,000lb, Hiryu is, thankfully, not hit, BC Kongo takes 4 more, and BC Haruna staggers under a remarkable 10 additional hits.
Soryu sinks at this point.
The calamity continues to build as Soryu's magnificent pilots somehow lose their coordination. The Zeros lose track of their charges and end up landing at Roi-Namur. The remaining 20 Val and 11 Kate attack in not one, not two, but THREE separate groups. The good news is that only 10 Wildcats protect Enterprise. That being said the F4Fs shoot down (out of 10 Val and 10 Kate) all but 5 Val and 2 Kate. These seven planes then, quite logically, decide to not attack the American CV but instead go after 1 or 2 of the Heavy Cruiser escorts. A single Kate then comes in and is shot down. The last portion of the attack is 10 Vals and 9 of them get through to drop their payloads. Of course 2/3 of them see the logic in attack those pesky CAs and only 3 drop their bombs at the US CV. NOOOOOO hits!
The afternoon simply accelerates the carnage.
No matter what the crew of IJN Hiryu tries those darned elevators won't work and so her entire Strike Plane complement never even takes to the sky.
American Strikes:
1. Enterprise sends 5 F4F and 24 SBD to attack the Wake Invasion Force. They hit CL Yubari twice, DD Mochizuki once, and sink an AKL.
2. Lexington sends 18 SBD to attack the AO's moving in to refuel the TF. They hit DD Amagiri once and sink an AO with two bombs.
3. All hope ends when the last Strike of the day, naturally, 6 Buf, 18 SBD, and 12 TBD nail Hiryu with 1 1,000lb and 2 500lb bombs, DD Urakaze takes 1 large bomb, and BC Kongo get 3 more.
Late afternoon shows little hope for the ill-fated Hiryu and she is scuttled. All other ships are ordered towards Kwajalein as quickly as they can sail. A quick tally at Roi-Namur reveals 37 Zeros and 3 Kate from the two CVs present at that distant base. Everything else is gone...
In the hopes that the Americans will foolishly advance south of Wake, Roi-Namur prepares 54 Betty and nearly 60 Zero to fly a Strike Mission the next day...
In reading that I chanced upon Kimmel's musings on the opportunities that might be created for the American Navy if Japan attacked Wake. His vision was the chance to set a trap for the Japanese.
This is all a lead-in for my report on the December 16, 1941 turn.
100 miles SW of Wake
CARDIV2 is comprised of Japan's two smallest heavy carriers the Hiryu and half-sister Soryu. For the previous couple of days this tandem has sunk a pair of American Heavy Cruisers, two large APs, and several destroyer-minesweepers. Their hangars are filled with 42 Zero, 38 Val, and 41 Kate. These planes are piloted by some of the very best pilots in the world. In fact--staring at the XP list prior to the turn--there are nearly 50 pilots with a skill in the 70s or higher. These two carriers are filled with magnificent pilots, highly trained ship crews, and capable leadership. Their escorts are the powerful and fast Battlecruisers Kongo and Haruna as well as a Light Cruiser, and 7 Destroyers.
In the distance the TF can see the Wake Island Invasion Force of 15 vessels carrying over 5,000 Japanese Marines. A small escort TF of 2 CL and 4 DD protect the Invasion Force from any potential harm.
CAP has been launched and the morning searches flown. A small group of 7 Zero have just departed to Sweep Wake Island in the hopes of shooting down more of the Marine Wildcats that defend the base.
The morning serenity is shattered when a search plane--flying from Eniwetok--spots the unmistakable form of an American Carrier 250 miles to the NE. The weather is pretty shaky with thunderheads and heavy clouds but there is no doubt as to the spotting of a Yorktown-Class Carrier. Twenty minutes later yet another carrier--Lexington-Class is spotted 40 miles NE of the first US CV. The Carriers have already turned into the wind and are launching their Strike Planes.
Admiral Yamaguchi Tamon instinctually knows that his two CVs are in deep trouble. He is a warrior, however, and calmly he prepares for battle. He has roughly 20 Zero for Escort and over 70 Strike Aircraft at his command. The orders ring out for Battle Speed and prepare to attack. As the maintenance crews furiously finish arming the aircraft, Hiryu is struck by a horrific calamity. At this moment her entire Circuit Breaker System trips and shuts down. The three large elevators cannot transfer Strike Planes from the hangars to the flight deck. Never before has something like this ever happened and the highly experienced Hiryu crew works at a frantic pace to fix the unbelievable problem.
As American Strike Aircraft close on the Japanese Force, Yamaguchi orders Soryu to launch all it can. Two small Strikes are launched comprising 8 Zero, 20 Val, and 11 Kate. Nothing else gets off the decks of the Japanese CVs before the massed American Strike arrives.
Lexington's Strike arrives first in the form of 10 Buffalo, 35 SBD, and 18 Marine Vindicator bombers. There are 19 Zero in the air to combat the incoming planes. Though the Zeros do well in shooting down 7 Buffalo,4 SBD, and 3 Vind the rest tip over into their dives.
For rookie pilots on the their first ever combat mission their aim is uncannily accurate. Soryu takes 4 1,000lb bombs and immediately goes dead-in-the-water, Hiryu takes 1 1,000lb and 1 500lb bomb but isn't terribly affected, BC Kongo takes 1 1,000lb, BC Haruna is hit by 4 1,000lb, and DD Urakaze takes 2 of the large weapons. Hit rate is just a bit better then 1-in-3...
Before the Japanese can catch their breath, Enterprise's Strike arrives in the form of 8 F4F, 35 SBD, and 15 TBD. The remaining 15 Zeros attack here as well and, once again, do fairly well. They shot down nearly a dozen planes before watching the attack begin over their ships. Soryu takes 3 more 1,000lb, Hiryu is, thankfully, not hit, BC Kongo takes 4 more, and BC Haruna staggers under a remarkable 10 additional hits.
Soryu sinks at this point.
The calamity continues to build as Soryu's magnificent pilots somehow lose their coordination. The Zeros lose track of their charges and end up landing at Roi-Namur. The remaining 20 Val and 11 Kate attack in not one, not two, but THREE separate groups. The good news is that only 10 Wildcats protect Enterprise. That being said the F4Fs shoot down (out of 10 Val and 10 Kate) all but 5 Val and 2 Kate. These seven planes then, quite logically, decide to not attack the American CV but instead go after 1 or 2 of the Heavy Cruiser escorts. A single Kate then comes in and is shot down. The last portion of the attack is 10 Vals and 9 of them get through to drop their payloads. Of course 2/3 of them see the logic in attack those pesky CAs and only 3 drop their bombs at the US CV. NOOOOOO hits!
The afternoon simply accelerates the carnage.
No matter what the crew of IJN Hiryu tries those darned elevators won't work and so her entire Strike Plane complement never even takes to the sky.
American Strikes:
1. Enterprise sends 5 F4F and 24 SBD to attack the Wake Invasion Force. They hit CL Yubari twice, DD Mochizuki once, and sink an AKL.
2. Lexington sends 18 SBD to attack the AO's moving in to refuel the TF. They hit DD Amagiri once and sink an AO with two bombs.
3. All hope ends when the last Strike of the day, naturally, 6 Buf, 18 SBD, and 12 TBD nail Hiryu with 1 1,000lb and 2 500lb bombs, DD Urakaze takes 1 large bomb, and BC Kongo get 3 more.
Late afternoon shows little hope for the ill-fated Hiryu and she is scuttled. All other ships are ordered towards Kwajalein as quickly as they can sail. A quick tally at Roi-Namur reveals 37 Zeros and 3 Kate from the two CVs present at that distant base. Everything else is gone...
In the hopes that the Americans will foolishly advance south of Wake, Roi-Namur prepares 54 Betty and nearly 60 Zero to fly a Strike Mission the next day...
- Attachments
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Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
It was sooooo fun!
Enough of my musings trying to justify the turn.
Talk about whacked! Strange:
1. Hiryu's planes--except her Sweep of Wake and CAP Zeros--never took to the sky.
2. Soryu's planes then decide to lose their cohesion--like American Squadrons--and attack in little piece packets.
3. 80% of the survivors then choose to attack everything BUT the Carrier and not get in a single hit.
Never seen anything like it.
Just to clarify--Adm Nelson pulled off a magnificent and breathtakingly bold move to set-up his attack. I knew I'd lost those two CVs the moment I realized I was up against two American Carriers. My reasonable hope was that I'd at least take one of them down with me. NOTHING! Not even one lousy hit...
(Shaking fist at the Heavens)
Am now trying to "enhance my calm."
Talk about whacked! Strange:
1. Hiryu's planes--except her Sweep of Wake and CAP Zeros--never took to the sky.
2. Soryu's planes then decide to lose their cohesion--like American Squadrons--and attack in little piece packets.
3. 80% of the survivors then choose to attack everything BUT the Carrier and not get in a single hit.
Never seen anything like it.
Just to clarify--Adm Nelson pulled off a magnificent and breathtakingly bold move to set-up his attack. I knew I'd lost those two CVs the moment I realized I was up against two American Carriers. My reasonable hope was that I'd at least take one of them down with me. NOTHING! Not even one lousy hit...
(Shaking fist at the Heavens)
Am now trying to "enhance my calm."
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
RE: Days of Infamy: Japanese Side
Lew offered a re-start. I am not too thrilled about that but will think on it.
Got him laughing because I sent the above narration of the battle last night as we were exchanging emails! He thought it was a weird turn too...
Am taking the family up to the mountains for three days so won't be able to Post until Sunday night. Everyone have a pleasant weekend.
Got him laughing because I sent the above narration of the battle last night as we were exchanging emails! He thought it was a weird turn too...
Am taking the family up to the mountains for three days so won't be able to Post until Sunday night. Everyone have a pleasant weekend.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
RE: Days of Infamy: Japanese Side
Just sent this to my opponent:
Good Day Sir.
We return to the house with a bunch of dirty clothes, dishes, and a bit of sunburn but a good time was had by all. As I said earlier we took the boys (6 and 4) fishing for the first time and my youngest caught a little 6" Rainbow trout. VERY exciting for him! No luck for the other but we had a pleasant time.
I went up the Hill with the intention of saying no and playing on with our Campaign. If you can believe this, I dreamt about the stupid game! Lordy--I am a geek. Took the Rule Book up with me and re-read the thing from cover-to-cover. These two things made me think long and hard about a few things. It dawned on me that I still haven't mastered some fo the details of this game and re-learned that in reading the handbook. My only true opponent in AE was Michael whom I only got in 20 turns with.
Point is that I've only really been playing AE by myself for about 40 turns now (Michael's and ours) and your style is antithetical to Michael's. I was guilty of laziness and want to correct that. How you play as the Allies is how I would play! I love it. So many Allied players are afraid to lose their early ships and planes when they never realize THAT IS WHAT HAPPENED in 1941/1942. Several well-timed punches can seriously erode the Japanese Offensive. You were magnificently accomplishing this and I greatly respect that.
Proposal:
1. We do a re-start as offered.
2. I want to do a minor upgrade of RA to reflect some problems found in other's games. This shouldn't take me long. Probably a good 3-4 hour session will fix and correct all that stuff.
3. Instead of using the turn I created for Michael's Campaign I will start all over. I've got a new strategy I'd like to try and so this will be the testbed.
Lew already agreed and so we will shall do it. I'll use this Thread to continue the AAR and detail a true tactical and strategic vision for the new game. Didn't really have a vision with Michael or this game but now I do and will go into details once I get the minor changes done to create RA, 2c.
Good Day Sir.
We return to the house with a bunch of dirty clothes, dishes, and a bit of sunburn but a good time was had by all. As I said earlier we took the boys (6 and 4) fishing for the first time and my youngest caught a little 6" Rainbow trout. VERY exciting for him! No luck for the other but we had a pleasant time.
I went up the Hill with the intention of saying no and playing on with our Campaign. If you can believe this, I dreamt about the stupid game! Lordy--I am a geek. Took the Rule Book up with me and re-read the thing from cover-to-cover. These two things made me think long and hard about a few things. It dawned on me that I still haven't mastered some fo the details of this game and re-learned that in reading the handbook. My only true opponent in AE was Michael whom I only got in 20 turns with.
Point is that I've only really been playing AE by myself for about 40 turns now (Michael's and ours) and your style is antithetical to Michael's. I was guilty of laziness and want to correct that. How you play as the Allies is how I would play! I love it. So many Allied players are afraid to lose their early ships and planes when they never realize THAT IS WHAT HAPPENED in 1941/1942. Several well-timed punches can seriously erode the Japanese Offensive. You were magnificently accomplishing this and I greatly respect that.
Proposal:
1. We do a re-start as offered.
2. I want to do a minor upgrade of RA to reflect some problems found in other's games. This shouldn't take me long. Probably a good 3-4 hour session will fix and correct all that stuff.
3. Instead of using the turn I created for Michael's Campaign I will start all over. I've got a new strategy I'd like to try and so this will be the testbed.
Lew already agreed and so we will shall do it. I'll use this Thread to continue the AAR and detail a true tactical and strategic vision for the new game. Didn't really have a vision with Michael or this game but now I do and will go into details once I get the minor changes done to create RA, 2c.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.