Chekov, after conferring with Lorencz opts to sit tight at Bretogne and reorganize and refit. Rather than stringing out his force over many miles of road in enemy country (and without a preponderance of cavalry. He will away rest an reorganization of Alfonso's division. In GM terms, this allows him to recover at least 2000 additional troops back into his battalions before moving out.
At 7pm Gen Lorenko at corps HQ receives the following telegraph from Makowsy.
GAVE BATTLE AT BRETOGNE THIS MORNING STOP 4 HOURS WORTH OF HEAVY FIGHTING STOP COULD NOT HOLD CITY BUT BELIEVE T HAVE DEALT ENEMY SEVERE BLOW STOP ENEMY HAS NOT LEFT BRETOGNE APPEARS TO BE STOPPED FOR REORGANIZATION STOP CONDUCTED FORCE MARCH TO DELEMOND WOODS TWELVE MILES EAST LONGCHAMPS STOP CURRENT STRENGTH 5470 ALL ARMS CASUALTIES IN BATTLE APPROX 900 STOP LOST ANOTHER 500 STRAGGLERS ON FORCED MARCH HOPE TO RECOVER STOP WE ARE PREPARING POSITIONS FOR NEXT DELAYING ACTION ENDSTOP MAKOWSKY
GM Note: Freedonian player when asked what to do opted to move west with all haste to the next defensible position. By conducting a forced march this allowed him to get to the next position (15 miles SW) with enough time to prepare improved positions. However this cost him an additional 500 casualties in stragglers, many of which will be permanently lost. The haste of the Freedonian withdrawal and the delay in Slobobian pursuit basically puts a day's normal march between the two armies.
Now on to what's happening on the southern route.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
2 June: Noon
It was not until the afternoon that Pereira and his Cacedores entered the town. On the eastern outskirts there were a few burned down buildings bodies and evidence of fight. Less damage was observed within the town. nearly all the inhabitants were gone, having left before the battle. A few very elderly citizens remained, and all glared at him as he went by with his men. Once his men were dropped off by the battalion mess wagons, he went to the makeshift hospital to look in on the wounded. Only a few were to be found, as several building around the town were being used as surgery stations.
When he returned to his platoon, he was stuck by how ragged they appeared. His own uniform was torn and filthy as the woods had been overgrown with thickets. Major Silva, the battalion commander, as waiting for him. It was now that he learned of the death of Captain Almeida. A few minutes of conversation later and Periera was now the Company commander.
Per instruction he moved his men to the hill just east of town where they would reassemble and reorganize. His company had gone int actin with 185 men, they now had 127. Many of the leaders had been killed. Lt Furnal, the only other company officer, commander 1st platoon, Sgt Gomes would command second platoon. After an hour's rest on the hill they were moved to the brigade assembly area. bow them he watched the endless procession of I Corps trudging through the town.
Three miles to the south Lt Morden peered through his field gasses back down the road. There had been a sharp clash with enemy Dragoons twenty moments before and his squadron had prevented them from probing forward. Th dragoons seemed content with pot shotting at them, no real pressing of the attack. Morden was happy for this as he was convinced that any aggressive push by the enemy now would overwhelm and destroy the brigade as they struggled south.
A pair of uhlans trotted by, both on the same horse. They were his last patrol. "We are the last one's sir! No one following us at the moment. Their infantry is still east of the river." Corporal Meeks, his courier, looked on expectantly for a message to deliver back down the line. He scribbled a quick not to regiment.
Half-hearted enemy cavalry probe turned. Bulk of enemy force still remains east of the river. Enemy appears to be reorganizing in town....Morden
When he returned to his platoon, he was stuck by how ragged they appeared. His own uniform was torn and filthy as the woods had been overgrown with thickets. Major Silva, the battalion commander, as waiting for him. It was now that he learned of the death of Captain Almeida. A few minutes of conversation later and Periera was now the Company commander.
Per instruction he moved his men to the hill just east of town where they would reassemble and reorganize. His company had gone int actin with 185 men, they now had 127. Many of the leaders had been killed. Lt Furnal, the only other company officer, commander 1st platoon, Sgt Gomes would command second platoon. After an hour's rest on the hill they were moved to the brigade assembly area. bow them he watched the endless procession of I Corps trudging through the town.
***
A pair of uhlans trotted by, both on the same horse. They were his last patrol. "We are the last one's sir! No one following us at the moment. Their infantry is still east of the river." Corporal Meeks, his courier, looked on expectantly for a message to deliver back down the line. He scribbled a quick not to regiment.
Half-hearted enemy cavalry probe turned. Bulk of enemy force still remains east of the river. Enemy appears to be reorganizing in town....Morden
2 June: 0800-1000
Despite success on the left, Alfonso sticks to his original plan and orders Leite to attack up the center.
Leite immediately pushes forward. Tow battalion are ordered forward up the road through the woods wile a third battalion is ordered to attack the castle position on the hill. On the west side of the woods is the last battalion for Correia's original attack. Disorganized, most of its officers killed and they are finally beginning to give away. The jaegers know they can't hod against a fresh brigade. they withdraw in good order to the rear secure in the knowledge they have bought time for the rest of the brigade to get away. They pass through the second line at the eastern edge of town and take up position in the stone buildings.
At this point Makowsky is beginning to think about breaking contact. many of his battalion are out of ammo, at least on Line battalion 1/8 has suffered heavy losses, and his left is wide open to a flanking movement. Leite's fresh brigade finally passes through t narrow terrain and impacts along the edge of the town. they are met by a severe fire and accurate Freedonia artillery. Within thirty minutes they are back on their heels but the Freedonians can see artillery being brought up for deployment. Makowsky uses the pause in the Slobibian attack to order a withdraw through th town to the third line. The indefatigable jaegers, themselves low on ammo, cover the retrograde then break away themselves. Leite, with a bloody knows pushes forward gingerly lest he ruin into another ambush.
By 1030 Makowsky has all of his forces behind the third line in marching order and heads south. the brigade is in desperate need of rest and reorganization, but any delay now will be fatal. he'd like to put about 10-15 miles between himself and the Slobobians. As the brigade heads south, toward Longschamps, the dragoons and Uhlans resume the rearguard .
Here are the results of the battle per Carnage and Glory post battle editor:
The Freedonian Army has suffered losses of:
[ 13%] 868 men of all arms
[ 13%] 760 bayonets
[ 18%] 108 sabres
[ 0%] 0 artillerists
Honors: [ 107] 3rd Tuefelwald Jaeger Bn
The Slobobian Army has suffered losses of:
[ 15%] 1620 men of all arms
[ 20%] 1473 bayonets
[ 0%] 74 sabres
[ 33%] 73 artillerists
Honors: [ 503] 1/3 inf rgt
Both sides have basically accomplished their immediate missions, the Freedonians have given battle and inflicted tactical reverse, then gotten away more or less intact. The Slobobians have cleared the road and are able to proceed west. We shall soon see how much of a delay has been caused....
Leite immediately pushes forward. Tow battalion are ordered forward up the road through the woods wile a third battalion is ordered to attack the castle position on the hill. On the west side of the woods is the last battalion for Correia's original attack. Disorganized, most of its officers killed and they are finally beginning to give away. The jaegers know they can't hod against a fresh brigade. they withdraw in good order to the rear secure in the knowledge they have bought time for the rest of the brigade to get away. They pass through the second line at the eastern edge of town and take up position in the stone buildings.
2 June 1000 Hours
At this point Makowsky is beginning to think about breaking contact. many of his battalion are out of ammo, at least on Line battalion 1/8 has suffered heavy losses, and his left is wide open to a flanking movement. Leite's fresh brigade finally passes through t narrow terrain and impacts along the edge of the town. they are met by a severe fire and accurate Freedonia artillery. Within thirty minutes they are back on their heels but the Freedonians can see artillery being brought up for deployment. Makowsky uses the pause in the Slobibian attack to order a withdraw through th town to the third line. The indefatigable jaegers, themselves low on ammo, cover the retrograde then break away themselves. Leite, with a bloody knows pushes forward gingerly lest he ruin into another ambush.
By 1030 Makowsky has all of his forces behind the third line in marching order and heads south. the brigade is in desperate need of rest and reorganization, but any delay now will be fatal. he'd like to put about 10-15 miles between himself and the Slobobians. As the brigade heads south, toward Longschamps, the dragoons and Uhlans resume the rearguard .
Here are the results of the battle per Carnage and Glory post battle editor:
The Freedonian Army has suffered losses of:
[ 13%] 868 men of all arms
[ 13%] 760 bayonets
[ 18%] 108 sabres
[ 0%] 0 artillerists
Honors: [ 107] 3rd Tuefelwald Jaeger Bn
The Slobobian Army has suffered losses of:
[ 15%] 1620 men of all arms
[ 20%] 1473 bayonets
[ 0%] 74 sabres
[ 33%] 73 artillerists
Honors: [ 503] 1/3 inf rgt
Both sides have basically accomplished their immediate missions, the Freedonians have given battle and inflicted tactical reverse, then gotten away more or less intact. The Slobobians have cleared the road and are able to proceed west. We shall soon see how much of a delay has been caused....
2 June: 0600-0800
The attack begins well as the Slobobia press upward. The Cacedores in the lead are in company sized skirmish elements while the line battalions proceed uphill in compact attack columns. Both flanks push forward against retiring screening elements. By 0630 the early sun gives way to a light misting rain causing visibility to drop under 600 meters. This is an advantage to the attackers who are saved form accurate artillery fire on the long march up slope.
Heavy firing takes place along the line. Th Freedonians now face a second misfortune. Both battalions on the right flank run low on ammo! With the newly issued dreyse rifle, the unfamiliar troops rapid shoot of all their ammo. An incompetent Brigade quartermaster further exasperated matters as he has positioned the supply column several miles to the rear and made insufficient arrangements to bring ammo forward. Freedonian artillery is compelled to withdraw without making a significant impact.Both of Makowsky's left flank battalions are compelled to withdraw. On the right the Slobobians rush forward into the assault. They throw back the Freedonian 1/8th foot with heavy loss.
As the Freedonia line falls back they are covered by two outstanding units, the 2d Guards Jaegers and the 3rd Tuefelwald Jaegers. unlike their line brethren, these two units are highly capable with the dreyse. Operating in company sized elements thy are well-positioned in stone building and the heavy thickets. Now the terrain conspires against the Slobobians. The main road runs through a very thick wood. To push forward they must go into march column. (The Cacedores at this point have ceased forward movement having been in heavy fighting for over an hour). Flanking the wood also requires channelized movement. The three attacking line battalions of Leite's brigade, already exhausted and bleeding become bogged down against this Jager defense.
0730 the lines make contact
As the Freedonia line falls back they are covered by two outstanding units, the 2d Guards Jaegers and the 3rd Tuefelwald Jaegers. unlike their line brethren, these two units are highly capable with the dreyse. Operating in company sized elements thy are well-positioned in stone building and the heavy thickets. Now the terrain conspires against the Slobobians. The main road runs through a very thick wood. To push forward they must go into march column. (The Cacedores at this point have ceased forward movement having been in heavy fighting for over an hour). Flanking the wood also requires channelized movement. The three attacking line battalions of Leite's brigade, already exhausted and bleeding become bogged down against this Jager defense.
0830: Leite relieves Correia
Stepping off.....
Lt Jorge Pereira nervously eyed the gentle, open slope before him. His platoon of cacedores squatted in the wide ditch the marked the forward progress of the entire army. The engineers had replaced the destroyed bridge with a claptrap affair, yet sturdy enough to hold wagons, really just some boards across the narrowest part of the ditch. It was nearly six am. The sun had been up since 430am and was slowly burning off the thick mist in the low lying areas. Before him the main road meandered up a long gentle slope, terminating less than a thousand yards ahead in a thick wood. His platoon would be in the lead of the entire army. To his left and right other platoons in open skirmish order waited in the ditch for the signal to move out. Behind him he could hear the hubbub of the rest of the division in marching order, sorting themselves out for the day’s move ahead. Pereira checked his Colt Navy revolver for the forth time, making sure it was loaded.
“Ho!” Pereira turned at the shout and he saw his Captain impatiently waving his sword forward in the direction of the hill.
“Let’s go!” He raised to his feet, a bit unsteady, pistol in hand and commanded the men to move along the road. They moved at a deliberate pace, rifles at the ready, the big Sergeant Arroyo in the lead, heads on a swivel. After moving about 100 paces the rest of the battalion followed, open order skirmish platoons in line abreast. Amid a clatter of canteen cups and banging metal they struggled out of the long ditch and followed.
****
300 paces up the hill closer to the southern end of the line, Lt Morden, squinted into his field glasses. He stood in his saddle straining at the faint noise in the misty lower reaches of the field. Something was going on. Masked by a small wood he was reasonably safe from whatever might come from his front, and he observed diagonally across the wide open field, observing the road. Sure enough he saw the first enemy troops moving deliberately up the road. He observed them for a minute, until like apparitions, a body of troops in extended order appeared behind them. He estimated at least a battalion. This should be it, he thought. He fumbled for his revolver, raised it above his head and fired off three shots, at one second intervals. The shots caused his horse to flinch. He scribbled a quick note of what he was observing and sent it off to his commander via one of his riders.
****
They continued forward for another five or six minutes covering about 400 yards. Behind him the head of the first line battalion emerged form the mist. Arroyo stopped the platoon and ran back to him.
“Sir, look up to those trees on the right.” Pereira looked in the direction he was pointing. The rising sun was at their back and he could clearly see, 400 yards ahead along the woodline, a line of troops along the woodline reflections glinting off of various bits of metal in their equipment. Pereira examined closer with his field glasses. He thought it was at least a company. He scribbled a message to his commander.
“Sibella! He looked for one of his runners. The boy came up at once. “Take this back to the battalion commander, Hurry”. Arroyo spread the men out and move up another hundred paces. No sooner had the words left his mouth than the line of troops in the woods open fire. Whizzing bullets flew about their ears and the men again took a knee and began to return fire without being told. Arroyo grabbed the nearest man to him by the belt and sought to raise him up, yelling for the men to move forward. Arroyo slumped forward as if he had stumbled but lay still in a heap. He heard the blast of cannon and saw the smoke atop the hill. Incredulously he saw a single shot careening towards him. It hit the ground in front of him and bounced along beyond, miraculously missing all his men.
“Lieutenant Pereira!” he looked behind him. It was the company commander.
“Take your men forward at once. Move damn you!” Arroyo held up his pistol and ran forward kicking a few cowering men along the way. “Let’s go men, move forward. Follow me!”
The Slobobian Plan of Attack
General Alfonso directs that General Correia's Brigade will lead off the assault up the main road cleaning the high ground and continuing to push southeast. General Leite's Brigade will follow closely i support and be prepared to pass through and continue the assault if there areany problems. Leite will detach two battalions to guard the flanks together with the cavalry. The Cacedores will lead off the division.
Once the division has accomplished it's task it will reorganize as I corps assumes thee lead of Group A.
Monday, December 19, 2011
First Clash 2 June 0500 Freedonian deployment
First Clash: 2 June 0500 The Situation
Group A has encountered rough terrain upon crossing the border into Freedonia. The Army is confined to a single road. However once through the town of Bretogne, the terrain opens up and the Army can deploy on a wider front for the march southwest.
It is at Bretogne that Gen Makowsky, commander of Force N has been directed to conduct his first delaying action.
Each commander received a packet which includes detailed maps of battle area, on overall situation map (attached) and a detailed order of battle for his forces.
Slobobian Log and GM notes
Slobobian Log
June 1st : At 0600 Slobobian Dragoons dismantle the border crossing at Herinval and the Army crosses into Freedonia by 2pm it is through Chetogne. By 5pm the Army halts in the open 7 miles north of Bertogne camping in the woods and thick fields by the road. No news yet from Group B. However your cavalry reports superior enemy cavalry forces screening the scouting effort forward. Intense skirmishing. Telegraph lines along the main road have been cut in numerous places. Otherwise apart from the inability for the scouts to range far forward, the Army has been unimpeded in it's progress.
GM Notes:
Because of the distance between the two Slobobian forces and lack of rapid information, there is currently a 24 hour lag in information sharing between the two wings. The Slobobian commander, co-located with Group A, only knows what is going on there. The Freedonian commander can make use of the telegraphs running along the main roads to both covering frcs and gets more frequent updates.
The first major clash we will game out is to take place with Group A and Force N at bretogne. This will be a Slobobian Division vs a Freedonian Brigade. With the holidays here we've been forces by HIGHER HQ to take down our game table to make room for a tree. I am going to try a combination of several wargaming systems:
TFL's 1862 Kriegsspeil rules http://toofatlardies.co.uk/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=8&zenid=65a2f6f47457a9bcf95155f30b242907 for this. I have found a suitable spot on the Meckel map for detailed terrain and have made up briefing packets for each commander to plot his battle strategy. I have made up a Kriegsspeil set that may be easier and quicker for smaller actions.
For resolving battles on my own (using orders and guidance from the players) I often use Carnage & Glory a computer moderated rules set by Nigel Marsh:
Carnage & Glory II Here is an overview of the system.
I use it in conjunction with powerpoint to game out the battles at leisure and send results. I used C&G in conjunction wit a long dramatic and quite successful earlierpbem campaign set in 1866 with 6 participants. (Someday I'll get around to posting about that!)
I will be using other systems as well such as the Gettysburg: Scourge of War computer game with it's excellent multiplayer and courier systems (more on that later). More on that later...
For face to face battles I have Grand tactical Rules-1866 where elements can be either battalions or companies. For the larger battles I wil try out the Bruderkrieg supplement for Polemos Kommondant der Armee .
I also have a homegrown set of mass skirmish rules I am working on that allow the players to be battalion commanders.
I will use various maps as I see fit to provide the best battle experiences, at times the tactical maps may not jive with the strategic map, but that's OK. It will all work out in the wash.
I hope to bounce around through these sets tailoring them to the situation to derive the experiences I want for the players. This will assist me in planing additional future campaigns.
So who are the two players I have foisted this particular campaign upon? They are my two sons (14 and 9). Do not let their ages fool you as they are both veteran wargamers, always up for something new, love history and will not shy away from the competition. They have experience with some short campaigns. The older one will command the Slobobians, the younger one the Freedonians. More on the two of them later.
June 1st : At 0600 Slobobian Dragoons dismantle the border crossing at Herinval and the Army crosses into Freedonia by 2pm it is through Chetogne. By 5pm the Army halts in the open 7 miles north of Bertogne camping in the woods and thick fields by the road. No news yet from Group B. However your cavalry reports superior enemy cavalry forces screening the scouting effort forward. Intense skirmishing. Telegraph lines along the main road have been cut in numerous places. Otherwise apart from the inability for the scouts to range far forward, the Army has been unimpeded in it's progress.
GM Notes:
Because of the distance between the two Slobobian forces and lack of rapid information, there is currently a 24 hour lag in information sharing between the two wings. The Slobobian commander, co-located with Group A, only knows what is going on there. The Freedonian commander can make use of the telegraphs running along the main roads to both covering frcs and gets more frequent updates.
The first major clash we will game out is to take place with Group A and Force N at bretogne. This will be a Slobobian Division vs a Freedonian Brigade. With the holidays here we've been forces by HIGHER HQ to take down our game table to make room for a tree. I am going to try a combination of several wargaming systems:
TFL's 1862 Kriegsspeil rules http://toofatlardies.co.uk/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=8&zenid=65a2f6f47457a9bcf95155f30b242907 for this. I have found a suitable spot on the Meckel map for detailed terrain and have made up briefing packets for each commander to plot his battle strategy. I have made up a Kriegsspeil set that may be easier and quicker for smaller actions.
For resolving battles on my own (using orders and guidance from the players) I often use Carnage & Glory a computer moderated rules set by Nigel Marsh:
Carnage & Glory II Here is an overview of the system.
I use it in conjunction with powerpoint to game out the battles at leisure and send results. I used C&G in conjunction wit a long dramatic and quite successful earlierpbem campaign set in 1866 with 6 participants. (Someday I'll get around to posting about that!)
I will be using other systems as well such as the Gettysburg: Scourge of War computer game with it's excellent multiplayer and courier systems (more on that later). More on that later...
For face to face battles I have Grand tactical Rules-1866 where elements can be either battalions or companies. For the larger battles I wil try out the Bruderkrieg supplement for Polemos Kommondant der Armee .
I also have a homegrown set of mass skirmish rules I am working on that allow the players to be battalion commanders.
I will use various maps as I see fit to provide the best battle experiences, at times the tactical maps may not jive with the strategic map, but that's OK. It will all work out in the wash.
I hope to bounce around through these sets tailoring them to the situation to derive the experiences I want for the players. This will assist me in planing additional future campaigns.
So who are the two players I have foisted this particular campaign upon? They are my two sons (14 and 9). Do not let their ages fool you as they are both veteran wargamers, always up for something new, love history and will not shy away from the competition. They have experience with some short campaigns. The older one will command the Slobobians, the younger one the Freedonians. More on the two of them later.
Th First 24: Three telegrams
Freedonian campaign log
June 1st:
At noon Telegraph report arrives at main force HQ in Bastogne attn Gen Lorenko from the telegraph station at Wicourt:
AT 0500 STRONG ENEMY FORCES CROSSED THE BORDER AT HOFFALIZE AND ARE PROCEEDING WEST TOWARDS WICOURT STOP ESTIMATE FOUR TO SIX BRIGADES WITH CAVALRY AND ARTILLERY STOP ENEMY ATTEMPTS TO FLANK OUR POSITION WITH CAVALRY HAVE BEEN CONTAINED STOP WE WILL BE UNABLE TO HOLD WICOURT AGAINST THIS FORCE STOP INTEND DELAYING ACTION FOLLOWED BY SLOW WITHDRAW WEST ALONG MAIN ROAD TO NOVILLE STOP TROOPS CUTTING TELEGRAPH LINES AND PULLING UP RAILS STOP MANY REFUGEES WILL BE HEADING YOUR WAY ALONG MAIN ROAD ENDSTOP GEN CRUZ
At 4PM Telegraph report arrives at main force HQ in Bastogne attn Gen Lorenko from the telegraph station at Bertogne:
AT 0600 THIS MORNING STRONG ENEMY FORCE CROSSED THE BORDER ALONG MAIN ROAD TO BERTOGNE STOP FORCE STRENGTH AT LEAST THIRTY THOUSAND RIFLES SEVERAL HUNDRED CAVALRY AND TWO DOZEN GUNS STOP ENEMY FORCE STICKING TO MAIN ROAD AND PROCEEDING AT A NORMAL PACE STOP FREEDONIAN CAVALRY SCREEN SUCCESSFUL AND PREVENTING ENEMY CAVALRY FROM RANGING TOO FAR FORWARD STOP COVERING FORCE WITHDRAWING STUBBORNLY TO WEST STOP ONLY CAVALRY HAS BEEN ENGAGED SO FAR STOP IN MORNING I INTENDTO DELAY ENEMY AT BERTOGNE AND SLOWLY WITHDRAW WEST ENDSTOP GEN MAKOWSKY
At 7pm another telegram from telegraph station at Novella
BRIGADE WASSERMAN WITHDRAW WEST FROM NOVILLE AFTER DELAYING ACTION STOP CURRENT POSITION TEN MILES NORTH OF NOVILLE PREPARING NEW DEFENSIVE POSITION AT CROSSROADS STOP CASUALTIES TWO HUNDRED KILLED AND WOUNDED STOP BRIGADE STILL IN GOOD SHAPE STOP ENEMY FORCE HALTED AT WICOURT FOR THE NIGHT THEY DO NOT SEEM TO BE IN ANY HURRY STOP ENEMY FORCE STRENGTH ESTIMATED AT OVER FORTY THOUSAND BAYONETS SEVERAL HUNDRED CAVARLY ONE HUNDRED GUNS STOP OUR CAVALRY SCREEN SUCCESSFUL IN PREVENTING ENEMY CAVALRY FROM RANGING FORWARD OF THEIR MAIN BODY STOP GEN CRUZ
At 8PM General Lorenko Issues the following orders via telegraph followed up by courier:
To CRUZ
DO NOT BECOME DECISIVELY ENGAGED IN CURRENT PREP3ARED POSITION STOP BEFORe INCURRING MODERATE CASUALTIES FALL BACK TO NOVILLE STOP SUGGEST YOU WORK THROUGH NIGHT TO PREPARE FURTHER DEFENSES THERE STOP REQUIRE EXACT INFORMATION ON ENEMY FORCES STOP GEN LORENKO
To Makowsky
PREPARE STRONG DEFENSIVE POSITION AT CURRENT LOCATION AND ATTEMPT TO DELAY ENEMY FORCING HIM TO DEPLOY STOP PREFER ONE DAY RESPITE ON ENEMY ADVAnCE IN YOUR FRONT STOP REQUIRE EXACT INFORMATION ON ENEMY FORCES STOP GEN LORENKO
Situation After 24 hours (0500 2 June)
June 1st:
At noon Telegraph report arrives at main force HQ in Bastogne attn Gen Lorenko from the telegraph station at Wicourt:
AT 0500 STRONG ENEMY FORCES CROSSED THE BORDER AT HOFFALIZE AND ARE PROCEEDING WEST TOWARDS WICOURT STOP ESTIMATE FOUR TO SIX BRIGADES WITH CAVALRY AND ARTILLERY STOP ENEMY ATTEMPTS TO FLANK OUR POSITION WITH CAVALRY HAVE BEEN CONTAINED STOP WE WILL BE UNABLE TO HOLD WICOURT AGAINST THIS FORCE STOP INTEND DELAYING ACTION FOLLOWED BY SLOW WITHDRAW WEST ALONG MAIN ROAD TO NOVILLE STOP TROOPS CUTTING TELEGRAPH LINES AND PULLING UP RAILS STOP MANY REFUGEES WILL BE HEADING YOUR WAY ALONG MAIN ROAD ENDSTOP GEN CRUZ
At 4PM Telegraph report arrives at main force HQ in Bastogne attn Gen Lorenko from the telegraph station at Bertogne:
AT 0600 THIS MORNING STRONG ENEMY FORCE CROSSED THE BORDER ALONG MAIN ROAD TO BERTOGNE STOP FORCE STRENGTH AT LEAST THIRTY THOUSAND RIFLES SEVERAL HUNDRED CAVALRY AND TWO DOZEN GUNS STOP ENEMY FORCE STICKING TO MAIN ROAD AND PROCEEDING AT A NORMAL PACE STOP FREEDONIAN CAVALRY SCREEN SUCCESSFUL AND PREVENTING ENEMY CAVALRY FROM RANGING TOO FAR FORWARD STOP COVERING FORCE WITHDRAWING STUBBORNLY TO WEST STOP ONLY CAVALRY HAS BEEN ENGAGED SO FAR STOP IN MORNING I INTENDTO DELAY ENEMY AT BERTOGNE AND SLOWLY WITHDRAW WEST ENDSTOP GEN MAKOWSKY
At 7pm another telegram from telegraph station at Novella
BRIGADE WASSERMAN WITHDRAW WEST FROM NOVILLE AFTER DELAYING ACTION STOP CURRENT POSITION TEN MILES NORTH OF NOVILLE PREPARING NEW DEFENSIVE POSITION AT CROSSROADS STOP CASUALTIES TWO HUNDRED KILLED AND WOUNDED STOP BRIGADE STILL IN GOOD SHAPE STOP ENEMY FORCE HALTED AT WICOURT FOR THE NIGHT THEY DO NOT SEEM TO BE IN ANY HURRY STOP ENEMY FORCE STRENGTH ESTIMATED AT OVER FORTY THOUSAND BAYONETS SEVERAL HUNDRED CAVARLY ONE HUNDRED GUNS STOP OUR CAVALRY SCREEN SUCCESSFUL IN PREVENTING ENEMY CAVALRY FROM RANGING FORWARD OF THEIR MAIN BODY STOP GEN CRUZ
At 8PM General Lorenko Issues the following orders via telegraph followed up by courier:
To CRUZ
DO NOT BECOME DECISIVELY ENGAGED IN CURRENT PREP3ARED POSITION STOP BEFORe INCURRING MODERATE CASUALTIES FALL BACK TO NOVILLE STOP SUGGEST YOU WORK THROUGH NIGHT TO PREPARE FURTHER DEFENSES THERE STOP REQUIRE EXACT INFORMATION ON ENEMY FORCES STOP GEN LORENKO
To Makowsky
PREPARE STRONG DEFENSIVE POSITION AT CURRENT LOCATION AND ATTEMPT TO DELAY ENEMY FORCING HIM TO DEPLOY STOP PREFER ONE DAY RESPITE ON ENEMY ADVAnCE IN YOUR FRONT STOP REQUIRE EXACT INFORMATION ON ENEMY FORCES STOP GEN LORENKO
Situation After 24 hours (0500 2 June)
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
INITIAL FREEDONIAN PLAN OF DEFENSE
Mission:
III Corps is to defeat or delay enemy forces in sector and prevent advance on capital off map to the west.
Execution:
Concept of the operation:
The III Corps is divided into two forces: The Covering Force under General Cruz and the Main force under General Lorenko. The covering force screen delays and identifies enemies forces. The
main force concentrates and attempts to defeat the enemy in detail if he divides his forces using central lines. If the enemy remains in mass defend and delay in sector until help arrives.
Coordinating Instructions:
The Covering Force
General Cruz' Division
Force reserve: 1 Jager bn, 1 Dragoon Regiment, 1 4 lbr battery.
Northern Force General Makowsky (Force N)
6th Infantry Brigade (5 line bn, 1 jaeger bn, 1 6 lbr battery)
St George's cavalry brigade ( 1 Uhlan rgt, 1 dragoon regt,)
1 militia bn in company sized garrisons
Deploy small outposts in a N-S line observing the border between Salle and Compagne. Main position vic Wiscourt. Withdraw along main road as necessary.
Southern Force General Wasserman (Force S)
7th Infantry Brigade (5 line bn, 1 jaeger bn, 1 6 lbr battery)
Hilton's cavalry brigade ( 1 Hussar rgt, 1 dragoon regt,)
1 militia bn in company sized garrisons
Deploy small outposts in a N-S line observing the border between Mabampre and Tavigny. Main position vic bertogne Withdraw along main road as necessary.
The covering force deploys near the border and observes enemy movement, delays where feasible and most importantly identifies the size composition and direction of the enemy's thrusts. This force is to avoid becoming decisively engaged until ordered to do so. Withdraw south along Main axis of enemy advance delaying him where feasible. Destroy rail tracks and cut telegraph lines. Report all movements to CinC. Screen all enemy reconnaissance. On order be prepared to either assist main body in counterattack or delay enemy force as directed. Be prepared to evacuate the magazine at Foy
Priority Intel requirements:
Size, composition and strength f enemy forces.
Direction of thrust
Speed of advance
Is enemy force divided or in one mass?
Will enemy attempt envelopment or come headlong at us?
All messages to be dispatched by telegraph and courier.
The Main Force:
III Corps (-) General Lorenko
1 Art bde (6 Art btrys)
General Lang's Division (2 bdes w 12 bns, 1 cav and 2 art btrys
General Norrington's Division ( 3 Bdes w 13 bns, 3 art btry, 1 cav rgt)
General Brocketts' Cavary Division (2 lt, 1 hvy Cav Bde=7 rgts, 1 HA btry)
Deploy centrally vic bastogne. Be prepared to move immediately to concentrate in terrain favorable to attack and destroy any inferior segment of the enemy advance as it presents itself through covering force reports segment Division cav to pre reconnoiter routes to the battle area.
Logistics:
Each division has sufficient stores in it's wagon trains to conduct two full day battles. AT Foy is stores for one division to conduct a full day's battles. At Bastogne there are two full days battles a fourth days stores are located at Remabrose. Additional Forage for horses obtainable off land. One rail engine with 6 cabins available for use and remains at bastogne. (Do not allow this engine to fall to the enemy.
Communications:
Use telegraph to send messages from covering force. Follow up with courier. Refer to PIR.
Order of Command:
Gen Lorenko
General Norrington, General Lang
General Cruz
General Brockett
THE LIBERATION OF FREEDONIA
Mission:
The Second Army attacks west into Freedonia, clears it’s sector and secures it’s lines of communications and advanced West to take the capital, bringing Freedoina into compliance.
Execution
The Army will be divided into two wings. I intend to advance in a westerly direction along both main roads from our border and envelop Bastogne. The army will continue it’s advance west from Bastogne along the main road to the capital. We will defeat enemy forces encountered along the way.
Concept of the operation: Division of the Army and initial deployment
Group A: General Chekov
I Corps Gen Checkov
4 brigades (22 line bns, 3 jaeger bns, 7 art btys, 2 lt cav rgts. 1 eng rgt. 1 supply train)
Alfonso’s division (Gen Alfonso)
2 Brigades (10 line bns, 2 jaeger bns, 2 art bty, 1 suppy train)
Group A will cross the border at Chetagne and move southwest along axis f advance Chetagne-Longchampes-Bastogne. The light cav rgts from Chekov’s corps will be in the lead followed by Alfonso’s division and then I Corps. Normal movement rate will be conducted in order to preserve order and concentration. Group A will hold at Savy, coordinate with Group B and prepare to attack Bastogne if necessary. If needed the engineers will repair of build bridges as necessary at Bastogne. Following he seizure of Bastogne, group A will assume the lead of Second Army and continue South to the capital. At any time be prepared to engaged the enemy on contact.
Group B: General Mattieu:
II Corps Gen Mattieu
4 Brigades (23 line bns, 5 jaeger bns, 6 arty btys, 1 cav rgt, 1 suppy train)
III Corps Gen Dexter
4 Brigades (24 line bns, 3 jaeger bns, 2 arty btys, 1 cav rgt, 1 supply train)
Group B will cross the border 20 miles North of Tavigny and move northwest along axis of advance Wicourt-Foy-Bastogne. The light cav rgts will be in the lead followed by III Corps and then II Corps. Normal movement rate will be conducted in order to preserve order and concentration. Group B will hold at Luzezy, coordinate with Group A and prepare to attack Bastogne if necessary. Following he seizure of Bastogne, group A will assume the lead of Second Army and continue South to the capital. At any time be prepared to engaged the enemy on contact. III Corps will be prepared to detach a brigade at Bastogne to preserve our line of communication.
Logistics:
Each major command carried with it sufficient supplies for two major day long battles. Seize and reserve any major depots encountered along the way to add to our stocks. Forage for horse along countryside is possible in June. Ensure rail lines are captured undamaged.
Communications:
All messages by courier. Attempt to seize intact enemy telegraph network for our use. Expect daily situation reports passed between the two groups. Cavalry patrols to secure any North-South roads between the two groups to facilitate communications. Report any enemy encounters at once.
Intelligence requirements:
State of road networks along axis of advance.
Security of axis of advance
Cooperation of local populace. (anticipated to be friendly)
Location of enemy main body.
Chain of command:
General Major Lorencz (Will be traveling with Group A)
Gen Checkov
Gen Mattieu
Gen Dexter
Gen Alfonso
The Second Army attacks west into Freedonia, clears it’s sector and secures it’s lines of communications and advanced West to take the capital, bringing Freedoina into compliance.
Execution
The Army will be divided into two wings. I intend to advance in a westerly direction along both main roads from our border and envelop Bastogne. The army will continue it’s advance west from Bastogne along the main road to the capital. We will defeat enemy forces encountered along the way.
Concept of the operation: Division of the Army and initial deployment
Group A: General Chekov
I Corps Gen Checkov
4 brigades (22 line bns, 3 jaeger bns, 7 art btys, 2 lt cav rgts. 1 eng rgt. 1 supply train)
Alfonso’s division (Gen Alfonso)
2 Brigades (10 line bns, 2 jaeger bns, 2 art bty, 1 suppy train)
Group A will cross the border at Chetagne and move southwest along axis f advance Chetagne-Longchampes-Bastogne. The light cav rgts from Chekov’s corps will be in the lead followed by Alfonso’s division and then I Corps. Normal movement rate will be conducted in order to preserve order and concentration. Group A will hold at Savy, coordinate with Group B and prepare to attack Bastogne if necessary. If needed the engineers will repair of build bridges as necessary at Bastogne. Following he seizure of Bastogne, group A will assume the lead of Second Army and continue South to the capital. At any time be prepared to engaged the enemy on contact.
Group B: General Mattieu:
II Corps Gen Mattieu
4 Brigades (23 line bns, 5 jaeger bns, 6 arty btys, 1 cav rgt, 1 suppy train)
III Corps Gen Dexter
4 Brigades (24 line bns, 3 jaeger bns, 2 arty btys, 1 cav rgt, 1 supply train)
Group B will cross the border 20 miles North of Tavigny and move northwest along axis of advance Wicourt-Foy-Bastogne. The light cav rgts will be in the lead followed by III Corps and then II Corps. Normal movement rate will be conducted in order to preserve order and concentration. Group B will hold at Luzezy, coordinate with Group A and prepare to attack Bastogne if necessary. Following he seizure of Bastogne, group A will assume the lead of Second Army and continue South to the capital. At any time be prepared to engaged the enemy on contact. III Corps will be prepared to detach a brigade at Bastogne to preserve our line of communication.
Logistics:
Each major command carried with it sufficient supplies for two major day long battles. Seize and reserve any major depots encountered along the way to add to our stocks. Forage for horse along countryside is possible in June. Ensure rail lines are captured undamaged.
Communications:
All messages by courier. Attempt to seize intact enemy telegraph network for our use. Expect daily situation reports passed between the two groups. Cavalry patrols to secure any North-South roads between the two groups to facilitate communications. Report any enemy encounters at once.
Intelligence requirements:
State of road networks along axis of advance.
Security of axis of advance
Cooperation of local populace. (anticipated to be friendly)
Location of enemy main body.
Chain of command:
General Major Lorencz (Will be traveling with Group A)
Gen Checkov
Gen Mattieu
Gen Dexter
Gen Alfonso
Monday, December 12, 2011
FREEDONIA vs UPPER SLOBOBIA JUNE 1868
General War Situation:
The king of Freedonia has passed away with no heirs. The Parliament has voted to give the President Elect Rufus T. Firefly greater constitutional powers and is greatly weakening the influence of the Monarchy, after the fashion of England. Freedonia’s neighbor to the east, Upper Slobobia, views this as an affront to Europe’s Monarchy. In particular the King of Upper Slobobia is a distant relative to the deceased King of Freedonia and feels that he should double as Freedonia’s monarch. The delicate relationship between the two counties has been exasperated by the eccentric nature of President Firefly. On June 6th, Upper Slobobia intent on resolving the issue by force, issues an ultimatum to allow it’s troops into Freedonia to “restore order”.
Current Situation:
Upper Slobobia began massing on Freedonia’s border last week and invasion is imminent. Freedonia underwent and emergency mobilization and is frantically putting itself in a state of defense.
Geography
Much of the region where the campaign takes place is covered in dense forests, with the mountains averaging around 350–700 m (1,148-1,640 ft) in height but rising to over 694 m in the boggy moors of theregion. The region is typified by steep-sided valleys carved by swift-flowing rivers. This sector of Freedonia is otherwise relatively sparsely populated, with few of the cities exceeding 10,000 inhabitants. The Tuefel range in Slobobia adjoins the region and is part of the same geological formation, although they are conventionally regarded as being two distinct areas.
Several main all-weather roads run through the area general along rail lines. Telegraph lines are in evidence along these MSRs (Main Supply Routes) as well. Many unimproved roads also criss-cross the area but become unreliable in bad weather. (Note I am using a map of the Ardennes for the campaign. On the attached map 1 hex = 5 miles)
Weather:
Average daily sunshine hours in June=7. Average participation in June=2”, average rains days in June=14. Average high temp=71F average low temp=51F. This region of Freedonia has a mild continental climate with four distinct seasons and moderate rainfall year round. Summers are warm and winters are cold. The weather in summer is much milder than might be expected for a continental climate due to the region’s elevation. The region is made up of forested mountains and rolling hills with sheer-faced valleys carved out by rapid rivers. The mountainous terrain gives rise to wetter weather than in surrounding regions; this region has the highest annual rainfall in Freedonia. Mist and fog are also much more common. The wet weather has led to the development of many boggy areas.
General Notes re: The Upper Slobobian Army
The Slobobian Army is immense and superiority in numbers is to be expected on all fronts. It is organized into Ad Hoc Corps each with 3-4 Brigades consisting of anywhere from 6-8 battalions. Training and capability of the officers and men is mixed with Patronage being the main ticket to commission. The battalions themselves consist of long service professionals armed with rifled Muskets. The cult of the bayonet still reigns supreme among commanders.. The Cavalry has a record of high quality. Slobobian artillery is still primarily muzzle loading smooth bore.
General Notes Re: The Freedonian Army.
Freedonia maintains a conscript Army. It is a smaller force than their adversaries. All males serve 3 years in the active Army, followed by 10 years in the reserve followed by ten years in the militia. The Freedonia Army is organized into Divisions each of 2-3 Brigades consisting of 5-7 battalions. Troops are armed with Breach loading rifles. Some rifled breech-loading artillery also exists.
GM Notes:
The king of Freedonia has passed away with no heirs. The Parliament has voted to give the President Elect Rufus T. Firefly greater constitutional powers and is greatly weakening the influence of the Monarchy, after the fashion of England. Freedonia’s neighbor to the east, Upper Slobobia, views this as an affront to Europe’s Monarchy. In particular the King of Upper Slobobia is a distant relative to the deceased King of Freedonia and feels that he should double as Freedonia’s monarch. The delicate relationship between the two counties has been exasperated by the eccentric nature of President Firefly. On June 6th, Upper Slobobia intent on resolving the issue by force, issues an ultimatum to allow it’s troops into Freedonia to “restore order”.
Current Situation:
Upper Slobobia began massing on Freedonia’s border last week and invasion is imminent. Freedonia underwent and emergency mobilization and is frantically putting itself in a state of defense.
Geography
Much of the region where the campaign takes place is covered in dense forests, with the mountains averaging around 350–700 m (1,148-1,640 ft) in height but rising to over 694 m in the boggy moors of theregion. The region is typified by steep-sided valleys carved by swift-flowing rivers. This sector of Freedonia is otherwise relatively sparsely populated, with few of the cities exceeding 10,000 inhabitants. The Tuefel range in Slobobia adjoins the region and is part of the same geological formation, although they are conventionally regarded as being two distinct areas.
Several main all-weather roads run through the area general along rail lines. Telegraph lines are in evidence along these MSRs (Main Supply Routes) as well. Many unimproved roads also criss-cross the area but become unreliable in bad weather. (Note I am using a map of the Ardennes for the campaign. On the attached map 1 hex = 5 miles)
Weather:
Average daily sunshine hours in June=7. Average participation in June=2”, average rains days in June=14. Average high temp=71F average low temp=51F. This region of Freedonia has a mild continental climate with four distinct seasons and moderate rainfall year round. Summers are warm and winters are cold. The weather in summer is much milder than might be expected for a continental climate due to the region’s elevation. The region is made up of forested mountains and rolling hills with sheer-faced valleys carved out by rapid rivers. The mountainous terrain gives rise to wetter weather than in surrounding regions; this region has the highest annual rainfall in Freedonia. Mist and fog are also much more common. The wet weather has led to the development of many boggy areas.
General Notes re: The Upper Slobobian Army
The Slobobian Army is immense and superiority in numbers is to be expected on all fronts. It is organized into Ad Hoc Corps each with 3-4 Brigades consisting of anywhere from 6-8 battalions. Training and capability of the officers and men is mixed with Patronage being the main ticket to commission. The battalions themselves consist of long service professionals armed with rifled Muskets. The cult of the bayonet still reigns supreme among commanders.. The Cavalry has a record of high quality. Slobobian artillery is still primarily muzzle loading smooth bore.
General Notes Re: The Freedonian Army.
Freedonia maintains a conscript Army. It is a smaller force than their adversaries. All males serve 3 years in the active Army, followed by 10 years in the reserve followed by ten years in the militia. The Freedonia Army is organized into Divisions each of 2-3 Brigades consisting of 5-7 battalions. Troops are armed with Breach loading rifles. Some rifled breech-loading artillery also exists.
GM Notes:
These are taken from Donald Featherstone's Wargaming Campaigns
Daily Movement rates:
Note: Bad weather negates unimproved roads
Infantry
Roads Normal: 15 miles
Roads Forced 25 miles 10% daily loss
Roads Emergency: 30 miles 40% daily loss, mandatory one day rest period
Cross country: 2/3 distance
Rough terrain 1/3 distance
Cavalry
Roads Normal: 30 miles
Roads Forced: 40 miles 10% daily loss
Roads Emergency: 50 miles 40% daily loss, mandatory one day rest period
Cross country: half distance
Rough terrain 1/3 distance
Artillery
Roads Normal: 20 miles
Roads Forced: 30 miles 10% daily loss
Roads Emergency: 40 miles 20% daily loss, mandatory one day rest period
Cross country 2/3 distance
Rough terrain 1/3 distance
Wagon trains
Roads Normal: 15 miles
Roads Forced: 25 miles 10% daily loss
Roads Emergency: 30 miles 40% daily loss, mandatory one day rest period
Cross county half distance
Rough terrain 1/3 distance
Tactical Situation:
Slobobian Army of the North (General M.Lorencz) is comprised of the following
First Corps: 4 bdes (total: 29 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 1 Eng bn, 4 art btry)
Second Corps: 4 bdes (total 29 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 4 art btry)
Third Corps: 4 bdes (total 28 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 3 art btry)
Allied Division: 2 bdes (12 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 2 art btry)
The supply trains for the Slobobians carry sufficient supplies for 7 corps-sized equivalent combat operations)
Total: 98 line bns, 4 cav rgts, 13 art btrys, 1 eng bn)
Advantages for the attacker:
Initiative and Objective: they know what they are doing , when and where
Numbers
Disadvantages:
Lack of sufficient cavalry for scouting out situation ahead, groping blind in enemy territory.
Muzzleloading rifle vs Breechloading
Supplies and supply lines
Freedonia III Corps (General D.Lorenko)
1st Division: 2 bdes (12 line bns, 1 cav rgt 3 btry)
2d Division: 2 bdes (12 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 2 btry)
3rd Division: 3 bdes (18 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 4 btry)
1 Cav Bde(2 rgts)
1 Cav bde (2 rgts)
1 Cav division (4 lt cav 2 hvy cav rgt, 1 btry)
Arty bde ( 3 btry)
Supply trains and supply depots in the region carry enough supplies for 10 division sized combat operations
4 militia battalions are divided into company sized garrisons through the area of operations
(total: 42 line bns, 4 militia bns, 13 cav rgts, 13 art btry)
Advantages for the defenders:
Interior lines
Control of the one railroad line and telegraph lines
Advantage in cavalry
Home territory: Militia and others can facilitate intel gathering
Breech loading vs muzzle loading rifles
Disadvantages:
Reacting to the enemy
Enemy has superior numbers
Note: Bad weather negates unimproved roads
Infantry
Roads Normal: 15 miles
Roads Forced 25 miles 10% daily loss
Roads Emergency: 30 miles 40% daily loss, mandatory one day rest period
Cross country: 2/3 distance
Rough terrain 1/3 distance
Cavalry
Roads Normal: 30 miles
Roads Forced: 40 miles 10% daily loss
Roads Emergency: 50 miles 40% daily loss, mandatory one day rest period
Cross country: half distance
Rough terrain 1/3 distance
Artillery
Roads Normal: 20 miles
Roads Forced: 30 miles 10% daily loss
Roads Emergency: 40 miles 20% daily loss, mandatory one day rest period
Cross country 2/3 distance
Rough terrain 1/3 distance
Wagon trains
Roads Normal: 15 miles
Roads Forced: 25 miles 10% daily loss
Roads Emergency: 30 miles 40% daily loss, mandatory one day rest period
Cross county half distance
Rough terrain 1/3 distance
Tactical Situation:
Slobobian Army of the North (General M.Lorencz) is comprised of the following
First Corps: 4 bdes (total: 29 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 1 Eng bn, 4 art btry)
Second Corps: 4 bdes (total 29 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 4 art btry)
Third Corps: 4 bdes (total 28 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 3 art btry)
Allied Division: 2 bdes (12 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 2 art btry)
The supply trains for the Slobobians carry sufficient supplies for 7 corps-sized equivalent combat operations)
Total: 98 line bns, 4 cav rgts, 13 art btrys, 1 eng bn)
Advantages for the attacker:
Initiative and Objective: they know what they are doing , when and where
Numbers
Disadvantages:
Lack of sufficient cavalry for scouting out situation ahead, groping blind in enemy territory.
Muzzleloading rifle vs Breechloading
Supplies and supply lines
Freedonia III Corps (General D.Lorenko)
1st Division: 2 bdes (12 line bns, 1 cav rgt 3 btry)
2d Division: 2 bdes (12 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 2 btry)
3rd Division: 3 bdes (18 line bns, 1 cav rgt, 4 btry)
1 Cav Bde(2 rgts)
1 Cav bde (2 rgts)
1 Cav division (4 lt cav 2 hvy cav rgt, 1 btry)
Arty bde ( 3 btry)
Supply trains and supply depots in the region carry enough supplies for 10 division sized combat operations
4 militia battalions are divided into company sized garrisons through the area of operations
(total: 42 line bns, 4 militia bns, 13 cav rgts, 13 art btry)
Advantages for the defenders:
Interior lines
Control of the one railroad line and telegraph lines
Advantage in cavalry
Home territory: Militia and others can facilitate intel gathering
Breech loading vs muzzle loading rifles
Disadvantages:
Reacting to the enemy
Enemy has superior numbers
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