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LST vs. IdahoNYer (DBB-C, A AAR) 6 yrs and done! VJ Day!

 
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LST vs. IdahoNYer (DBB-C, A AAR) 6 yrs and done! VJ Day! - 9/3/2014 5:57:47 AM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		Well, I finally went all in and will have a go at a PBEM after a long, long time. LargeSlowTarget
has been kind enough to accept my offer for a game, and it should be a fun ride for the next few
months or years....

Wanted to get this initial post off while its still today, 2nd Sep here in Idaho. Figure starting an Allied AAR on the anniversary
of the Japanese surrender is a good omen:





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< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 10/17/2020 2:54:35 AM >
Post #: 1
RE: Duel of the tankers - LargeSlowTarget vs. IdahoNYer... - 9/3/2014 5:30:27 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		Overview: It always amazes me as I start a WiTP campaign at the state of Allied unpreparedness across the Pacific. And of course, LargeSlowTarget knows this as much as I do. So, on the morning of 8 Dec 1941, where do we stand? First rule of thumb is that until mid 1942 at the earliest, we’re not going to hold a piece of real estate that the Japanese want. Second, preserving the fleet, especially the carrier force is paramount. Understanding these two rules should keep me out of trouble. Understanding and following them aren’t however the same thing. Third rule, hit the Japanese when and where he isn’t strong; keep him off balance.

So the overall intent for the first couple of months is to trip up his expansion by hitting back when and where he is lightly protected (avoiding the KB at all costs), preserve the force, dig in, delay, and build up - and keep the fingers crossed that we have some luck!

First turn preparation for the long haul: Now to attempt to bring some order to the chaos. I try and get most of my “housekeeping” started on the first turn and hopefully, I’ll have assets in place by the end of the month for the long haul plan (literally in the case of shipping). First, pilot training. I won’t overly micro manage this, but at start, the Allies are short both planes and pilots. Good pilots are of course, very few and far between. Having bad pilots in what few aircraft are available is just going to get pilots and planes lost. So, as best as possible, if a pilot has less than 50 experience, he goes back to “advanced flight training” This is a process, and I’ll still have some lack luster pilots flying in Dec 41, but hope to have all committed pilots have an experience of at least 50. I also like to keep deployed squadrons free of replacements - they’ll be in rear area advance training squadrons and not deployed. I’ll “graduate” pilot classes on the first turn of each month which should provide a steady stream of reasonably trained pilots for the force. For the US Army pilots, there are plenty of restricted units for training. No issues here. For the US Navy, 2xPBY squadrons will train torp pilots, 2xKingfisher will train fighters, and 1xKingfisher will train SBD pilots. More float planes will commit to navy training as they come avail. For the Marines, a Texan will train fighters, and a stateside SBD will train SBD pilots initially. Marine squadrons that arrive with only 2 planes will be trainers until planes and a trained reserve pilot pool is established. Aussies will have the Wirraway for trainers, Brits the Audax and NZ the Vincent at start. I’ll pull other airframes as they come avail, but right now, for the Commonweath - All hands on deck! For the Chinese, I have no idea right now…

For the shipping war, using off map capabilities are a great asset. I plan to use AKLs and short endurance haulers to move fuel and supply off map from NY to Capetown, augmenting with short haul tankers as necessary. This will leave the tankers and AKs to move fuel/supply on map. From the states, I try and keep things simple as possible. Seattle supports NOPAC, San Francisco supports CENPAC, and Los Angeles supports SOPAC and SWPAC. Capetown supports Australia and India, while fuel comes from Abadan. Long haulers (10,000+ endurance) will compromise Capetown to Austrailia and shipping out of Los Angeles. Medium Haulers (8,000) will ship the other main routes, and distro from shipping hubs augmented by short haulers. This all assumes I can keep the shipping lanes clear of course! Getting all this sorted out will take most of Dec as well. On the bright side, I don’t need to worry about shipping oil or resources back to the home islands! Supply and Fuel are plentiful to the Allied Cause. Getting it shipped forward to where it is needed, especially in DBB-C, is the challenge - for both sides.

Other first turn must dos are getting engineers to start digging and building. Ports (especially shipping hubs) and airfields need to be expanding and defenses need to be started and/or expanded. If supplies are on hand, engineers go to work - I don’t consider any place “safe” and not needing additional fortification if at all possible. The exception to all this engineer work is of course China.





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(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 2
RE: Duel of the tankers - LargeSlowTarget vs. IdahoNYer... - 9/3/2014 5:42:07 PM   
witpqs


Posts: 26087
Joined: 10/4/2004
From: Argleton
Status: offline 		Good luck!

Reading both sides so will tightly restrict comments.

_____________________________

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(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 3
RE: Duel of the tankers - LargeSlowTarget vs. IdahoNYer... - 9/3/2014 5:46:12 PM   
BBfanboy


Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline 		After seeing Bullwinkle use the short-ranged xAKLs off-map to feed CT, I adopted the practice too. It's a godsend to not have to monitor their fuel state every turn.
I did keep the 6500 nm ranged ones for on-map work - they can go from PH to SOPAC and back without refuelling. They are also small enough to risk for supplying isolated garrisons.
To feed PH I kept some of the 6000 nm 2900 (cargo) tonners. These can be escorted about six hexes away from the ports and then let sail independently, with a small ASW vessel escorting if there is one available.
A convoy of 10 of these guys brings 29000 tons of cargo - a worthwhile amount.

Looking forward to your AAR. Good luck!

_____________________________

No matter how bad a situation is, you can always make it worse. - Chris Hadfield : An Astronaut's Guide To Life On Earth

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 4
RE: Duel of the tankers - LargeSlowTarget vs. IdahoNYer... - 9/3/2014 6:14:39 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		Thanks guys, this should be a fun game. As for the off map shipping - yep - not sure if it was Bullwinkle I read it from, but sure did get it from the forum! Amazing what fantastic knowledge is out there. I learn something all the time, and then slap my head with "I've been playing this game for years, why the heck didn't I know that??!!"

(in reply to BBfanboy)
Post #: 5
Allied Initial Planning Overview - 9/3/2014 10:31:26 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		Allied Strategy in December 1941. We as players have a great advantage over our 1941 counterparts in our knowledge of history and hindsight. What a clear crystal ball we have on turn 1! The challenge is to rapidly cloud the Japanese player’s crystal ball while maintaining a degree of clarity in the Allied side and then, the hard part, be able to act on it.

Political Points will be used for changing out lackluster naval leaders first and foremost - starting with sub commanders, then other leaders. Second priority will be the release of stateside restricted units - especially engineers to Theater. Third will be releasing of restricted units already deployed to redeploy elsewhere in Theater. Fourth, swapping out air and ground leaders.

The submarine campaign will begin immediately and faulty torpedoes or not, will engage Japanese shipping throughout the Empire. Subs will not focus only on invasion sites, but press to Japanese home waters - the goal is to force the IJN to escort every ship transiting all waters. Fleet boats will go deep into Home Waters and Coastal boats will focus on short range targets. Mining will be used to the extent mines are available at shipping choke points. Initially, major Allied sub bases are Pearl, Manila and Soerebaja. Will try and keep Manila operational as long as possible to cut transit time. As tenders and supplies become available, will establish sub bases at Townsville, Darwin, Colombo, Midway and Dutch Harbor in that order.

Unfortunately, there’s not a lot the Allies can do to stop the Tokyo Express in Dec 41. However, all hope is not lost. Maybe we can’t stop it in its tracks just yet, but perhaps we can cause a derailment or two which can throw that tight Japanese timetable into disarray. And time, of course, is the most potent weapon on the Allied side. To accomplish this, I’ve created a Containment Zone (CZ) and a Defend Zone (DZ) across the theater (The area between the CZ line and the DZ line is the CZ). The CZ is where the Allies will attempt to disrupt Japanese operations, but not become decisively engaged. Ultimately, in the CZ, attempt to force the Japanese to fight for ground - use something more than a battalion landing in key areas, defend key areas and delay, delay, delay -by committing some ground, air and naval forces. Force the commitment of more than an SNLF or Army regiment to take select bases in the CZ. As reinforcements arrive, attempt to turn areas of the CZ into the DZ if possible. It’s in the DZ that we want to hold ground. Build up of bases here have priority until they are no longer vulnerable. Bases here should be able to hold against a division sized landing. If threatened, consider commitment of major air and naval forces. A little later I’ll get into some detail of each major command’s initial plan, assets currently available, and assets slated for commitment into that command.

To keep clarity in the Allied crystal ball, the Allies need information on what the Japanese are up to. The most import Japanese activities will become Priority Intelligence Requirements (PIR) - and these, once identified, will drive Allied actions. Although I’d like to know everything LargeSlowTarget is doing and planning, that of course isn’t practical, so I’m going to have about half a dozen PIR that I can focus recon/search/SIGINT on. I’ll review and modify these periodically to see if they are still valid, or need to be replaced. Here’s my starting lineup of PIR:

1. Kido Butai - location, composition and employment. This is a no brainer, as where the KB is, trouble lurks. Keeping tabs on the KB is going to be a priority and what it consists of (splitting off some CVs perhaps) and how is it employed (port/AF attacks, stand-off ranges to targets) can provide opportunities.

2. Mini-KB - location, composition and employment. Same as above….

3. Commitment of Second Echelon Japanese Infantry Divisions (ex. 38ID, 2nd ID, 21st ID). Knowing where these formations are heading or have been committed can tip the Japanese hand. Premature commitment of these forces in the CZ could slow the overall Japanese advance. Identifying two or more divisions heading toward as single objective is trouble - decision to fight or withdraw early on could be key!

4. New airbase capable of operating Zeros then Netties with torpedoes. Establishing these advance bases telegraph where the Japanese thrusts are going. Identified these before fully operational, bombard and disrupt if possible. Once established, evac naval units as feasible, or ensure CAP is avail (not likely in Dec 41). Establishing these bases will gradually collapse the CZ.

5. Commitment of 144th IN REG (South Seas Detachment). The only major army ground unit threatening SOPAC and SWPAC early on. Assume it will go to Rabaul, but heading toward Noumea or Moresby in Dec is dangerous. CZ goal is to be able to defeat a landing of this, or similar sized unit.

6. Commitment of BBs. Although I’ll keep what’s left of the US BB fleet out of harm’s way for a while, commitment of the Japanese BB fleet likely signals the target is pretty important. Not sure about this one…any better ideas?





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(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 6
RE: Allied Initial Planning Overview - 9/4/2014 6:42:00 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		Major command initial plans:

NOPAC
Overview: Tertiary theater at best - will keep it quiet as long as possible and will rely on forces in theater as much as possible until reinf become avail later in ‘42. 2xDDs from Seattle inbound immediately. CL Omaha and 2-4 DD from PH (as well as possibly a CA) once the KB is confirmed out of the area. 2xS Boats enroute.
CZ: Establish forces on Amchitka and Adak Is to deny to enemy.
DZ: Hold Dutch Harbor and Kodiak


CENPAC
Overview: Critical theater in order to safeguard Pearl Harbor. 3rd in Priority of overall reinforcement as Japanese moves in Central Pacific not likely past Wake/Baker/Canton. Lex and Big E Carrier groups initially to patrol in CENPAC south of PH until KB intentions become clear; avoid combat with KB, but disrupt enemy efforts in CZ. Expect one of the two CVs to move into SOPAC by end of year.
CZ: Canton Island has priority of Reinf to deny. Midway, Christmas and Johnston Is also to reinforce and deny.
DZ: Hold Hawaiian Islands at all costs. Can expect to move islands currently in CZ to DZ status within four months as reinforcements arrive.

SOPAC
Overview: Initial priority of reinforcements for entire Pacific Theater in Dec. Most dangerous area vulnerable to Japanese attack; few forces currently on hand. CA, 2xCL, DD initially scattered in SOPAC to hit lightly guarded Japanese invasions against in SOPAC area; Cruisers to move to SWPAC as soon as practical. CV Saratoga to depart San Diego shortly; will link up with 1xCV from CENPAC by end of month to deny unless KB committed. 1xMarine Reg for Noumea and Suva to depart San Diego shortly on fast APs. Engineers and Marine Def Battalion as well as other army units as soon as they can ship.
CZ: Noumea and Suva are priority for reinforcement and attempt establish as bases. Pago-Pago and Luganville next. Determine if able to hold these bases.
DZ: Build up and hold New Zealand. Establish and safeguard Auckland as initial major base in area.

SWPAC/Australia
Overview: Priority is to build up defenses on Australian mainland (especially Darwin area)with forces on hand and as reinforcements become available. Reinforce Pt. Moresby as practical depending on Japanese intentions. CL Adelaide to move to Kavieng to disrupt any “quick grabs”. ANZAC CA/CL TF forming to disrupt operations in CZ unless major Japanese commitment in area. 4xDD from US Asian Fleet and the US/NZ CA/CLs in SOPAC. 2xUS CV TF to be potentially avail if Japanese move on Moresby early without KB.
CZ: Rabaul, Port Moresby, Milne Bay and Horn Is all to be garrisoned to prevent easy takeover.
DZ: Australian mainland - move forces from interior to defend coastal bases, with priority on NW and NE bases. Australian I Corps to reinforce as soon as avail.

Philippines
Overview: With invasion imminent, begin falling back to defensive positions of Clark, Bataan and Manila, with Bataan being the final stand. Subs sortie on 8 Dec and will operate out of Manila for as long as practical. 4xsubs to begin transporting supplies to Bataan from outer islands immediately. All other ships less a single AS to sail for safer waters. Half dozen AKLs to attempt to resupply Manila from outer islands. Maintain existing fighters as CAP for as long as possible. B-17s to conduct harassing raids, then withdraw to DEI/Aus.
CZ: Prioritize the above bases for defense.
DZ: N/A

Malaya/DEI
Overview: In Malaya, fall back towards Johore/Singapore and hold for as long as possible. In DEI, use aggressive naval strikes to disrupt Japanese advance for as long as practical. Dutch, US Asian Fleet and British Far Eastern Fleet has some potential and will operate aggressively in the DEI. Will reinforce with some British naval units as they become avail. Other than PoW and Repulse, no heavy units or CVs will be committed. Brit ground forces currently in transit to Singapore to be diverted to Ceylon.
CZ: Singapore, Batavia and Soerebaja to hold as long as possible. Airlift as practical forces for Palembang.
DZ: N/A

Burma/India
Overview: British focus will be on preserving India/Ceylon. Will hold Rangoon for China supply as long as practical. Sqdn of AVG to commit to Rangoon. Singapore bound troops to divert to Ceylon.
CZ: Rangoon and slow withdraw to India border
DZ: Ceylon and mainland India to be bitterly defended.

China
Overview: I hate China. 1xSqdrn of AVG to China.
CZ: Any clear hex; withdraw towards the interior. Attempt to hold Sian, Wenchow and Pakoi. Hold out at Hong Kong as long as possible of course.
DZ: With some luck, a line running from Lanchow, Sian, Changsa, Wuchaw and Nanning.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 7
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/7/2014 6:21:00 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		8-9 Dec 1941

Jpn ships sunk:
None

Allied ships sunk:
xAK: 1
xAKL:1

Air loss:
Jpn: 33
Allied: 47

Amph Inv:
Batan Is (PI)
Jolo (PI)
Nauru Is (CENPAC)

Bases lost:
Batan Is (PI)
Nauru Is (CENPAC)

After the debacle of Pearl Harbor on 7 Dec, the Allied High command is pleased to report that no major catastrophes occurred on either 8-9 Dec…all catastrophes will be postponed to a later date.

Prior to LargeSlowTarget sending the turn, he commented on how “sinking CL Boise was top priority”. He wasn’t kidding! CVL Ryujo moved quickly into the Celebes Sea and CL Boise was attacked in two waves by 26xKate torpedo laden sorties - all of which missed! The last act against the Boise was by the major Japanese surface task force (3xCA,CL,12xDD) covering the Jolo Invasion. Here’s the result of that combat (note the second to last line of the combat report):

quote:

Japanese Ships
CA Myoko
CA Haguro
CA Nachi
CL Nagara
DD Kuroshio
DD Oyashio
DD Hatsukaze
DD Natsushio
DD Yukikaze
DD Hayashio
DD Amatsukaze
DD Tokitsukaze
DD Yamakaze
DD Kawakaze
DD Umikaze
DD Suzukaze

Allied Ships
CL Boise

Improved night sighting under 78% moonlight
Maximum visibility in Clear Conditions and 78% moonlight: 12,000 yards
CONTACT: Japanese lookouts spot Allied task force at 11,000 yards
CONTACT: Allied lookouts spot Japanese task force at 11,000 yards
CA Nachi engages CL Boise at 11,000 yards
Range closes to 7,000 yards
CA Nachi engages CL Boise at 7,000 yards
Range closes to 6,000 yards
CA Haguro engages CL Boise at 6,000 yards
CL Nagara engages CL Boise at 6,000 yards
Range increases to 7,000 yards
CL Boise engages CA Nachi at 7,000 yards
Range increases to 11,000 yards
CA Nachi engages CL Boise at 11,000 yards
CL Boise engages DD Umikaze at 11,000 yards
CL Boise engages DD Kuroshio at 11,000 yards
Japanese Task Force Manages to Escape
Task forces break off...


CL Boise has started off a very, very lucky ship. We’ll see if she can continue that luck!

In CENPAC, the KB has disappeared, hopefully pulling west toward home waters (hey, I can hope, right?). A B-17 claimed a hit on a Jpn sub off Oahu and SS Thresher took a shot at another sub - sub reporter notched up a damage sub to Thresher, so maybe she got lucky. Immediate focus around PH will be to clear out the subs. Big E TF departed PH and headed south toward Palmyra, escaping detection by subs. Lady Lex headed south towards Tarawa after launching 6xSBUs each to Midway and Wake Is. The Wake F4Fs do well against the Nell attacks and 2LT Kliewer is the first Allied Ace with 5 kills (he’s immediately evac’d from Wake by order of President to receive the first Medal of Honor of the Pacific War). Nauru Is invasion looks to be a re-routing of either Tarawa or Makin, and the CA Louisville just SE escorting an AP will investigate....

Quiet in SOPAC and SWPAC, no sightings. CL Adelaide enroute to Kavieng and all avail CA/CL/DDs in area are moving northward to consolidate into a Striking Force. The first group of Banshees at Brisbane are moving to Townsville, then on to Moresby and perhaps Rabaul. The pilots need some training in Naval attack though..

In the Philippines area, the Japanese are making Jolo their main initial objective to cut off any supply attempts to Luzon. The exodus of shipping from the PI has begun, the only casualties were an xAK off Bataan and the Langley hit by one of Ryujo’s Kates (pretty much all torps should be expended now). His early move on Jolo beat my attempt to mine it, but at least he did not get the chance to attack the on the turn of invasion - so I have some time here before shipping is completely shut down in the southern PI area. Jpn fighter sweeps effectively clear P-40s from the skies above Manila without much payback. Troops begin moving back toward Batann, Clark and Manila.

In the DEI, Force Z arrived at Batavia w/o incident. She’ll immediately set sail on 10 Dec with additional Brit and Dutch CL/DD forces and attempt to strike toward Jolo. US Asian Fleet combat forces are moving toward Balikappan, and should also be able to sortie against Jolo shortly. An Eastern Striking force (2xCL,5xDD) under Doorman will also sortie on 10 Dec headed toward the eastern Celebes to disrupt expected Japanese landings. Singkawang is mined without incident. Lastly, shipping is starting to be evac’d out of Java.

In Malaya, Kota Bharu holds off the first Japanese assaults, but that won’t last. Forces begin falling back toward Singapore. Shipping is evac’d from Singapore harbor and surprisingly, no Jpn air attacks were launched against Singapore …yet. No sightings of the Jpn fast BB TF or additional invasions either. Its quiet, too quiet off Malaya right now.


(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 8
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/8/2014 1:33:11 PM   
traskott


Posts: 1546
Joined: 6/23/2008
From: Valladolid, Spain
Status: offline 		Suscribed! Good luck! Can u explain the xAKLs off-map use? Why are so important off-map? I believed they excel in front bases with lowlevel ports...

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 9
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/8/2014 10:47:46 PM   
BBfanboy


Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: traskott

Suscribed! Good luck! Can u explain the xAKLs off-map use? Why are so important off-map? I believed they excel in front bases with lowlevel ports...

If I may respond:
At game start there is little supply in the islands to move to where it is needed, and little enough in Australia or NZ or India. So long-distance trips are necessary to haul from the US or Cape Town and the xAKLs of 4000 nm range cannot make the trip without refuelling.
But wait! There is no fuel to be had at most forward bases! If you do not want to be burdened with directing small TFs to intermediate fuelling points like PH and Canton Island, and then giving new orders to destination, then new orders to a return refuel point, send them off-map until you get some fuel and supply moved forward by larger ships. Then you can start sending some of the 4000 nm ranged ships back on-map to distribute to the forward bases.
I keep most of the 1700 ton capacity/6500 nm range xAKLs on-map to operate PH-SOPAC, Prince Rupert-NORPAC, and Columbo(or Bombay)- Burma.

< Message edited by BBfanboy -- 9/8/2014 11:49:39 PM >

_____________________________

No matter how bad a situation is, you can always make it worse. - Chris Hadfield : An Astronaut's Guide To Life On Earth

(in reply to traskott)
Post #: 10
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/8/2014 11:29:44 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline
quote:

Why are so important off-map? I believed they excel in front bases with lowlevel ports...


BBfanboy beat me to it with his response, but here's my take.

As BB said, you'll need some short haulers - some of which can actually do some intermediate routes - operating on map. But you'll also need to bring fuel to Capetown from NY or London - you can use your short range xAKLs off map for this, as long as you can get them to Capetown or NY. Ships off map don't burn fuel and can go at fast speed without worry about maint breakdowns. This allow you to focus your limited tanker fleet on map.

(in reply to traskott)
Post #: 11
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/9/2014 12:00:33 AM   
Bullwinkle58


Posts: 11302
Joined: 2/24/2009
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: IdahoNYer

quote:

Why are so important off-map? I believed they excel in front bases with lowlevel ports...


BBfanboy beat me to it with his response, but here's my take.

As BB said, you'll need some short haulers - some of which can actually do some intermediate routes - operating on map. But you'll also need to bring fuel to Capetown from NY or London - you can use your short range xAKLs off map for this, as long as you can get them to Capetown or NY. Ships off map don't burn fuel and can go at fast speed without worry about maint breakdowns. This allow you to focus your limited tanker fleet on map.


I keep 90% of my tankers off-map in 1942. They're too efficient at hauling EC to CT. I bring fuel on-map in xAKs. I have a lot more of those and end up getting over 2000 by the end. Tankers are precious and escorts are terrible early.

_____________________________

The Moose

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 12
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/9/2014 9:23:11 AM   
traskott


Posts: 1546
Joined: 6/23/2008
From: Valladolid, Spain
Status: offline 		For Uk/NY to C.T. routes I use TKs and fast AKs....

AKs of 2900: On map, at Aukland/P.H. and such.

AKs of 6400-5200: From WC or C.T. to Australia, P.H.

xAKLs: Frontline duty.


(in reply to Bullwinkle58)
Post #: 13
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/10/2014 5:56:32 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		10-11 Dec 1941

Jpn ships sunk:
CM:1
SC:1
xAK:1
AG:1

Allied ships sunk:
DD:1
AV:1 (Langley)
CM:1
TK:1
xAP:2 (small)
xAK: 2
xAKL:1

Air loss:
Jpn: 17
Allied: 13

Subwar:
Jpn: 1xAttack: no hits
Allies: 11xAttack: 2xships hit and both sunk (xAK, AG)

Amph Inv:
Aparri (PI)
Balabac (PI)
Guam (CENPAC)
Kudat (DEI)
Laoag (PI) - Airborne assault

Bases lost:
Jolo (PI)
Laoag (PI)
Kota Bharu (Malaya)
Pengpu (China)

With the exception of the “Battle for the Exodus”, the flight of shipping from the PI, a fairly quiet two days. Focus for the Allies remains redeploying assets, preparing bases for either imminent attack or long term use, and striking back with naval/air assets when and where possible. Subs are starting to reach patrol areas and beginning attacks in patrol zones. Despite the synch bug rearing its ugly head, here’s the wrap up:

West Coast’s first reinforcement effort departed LA for the SOPAC, 3xAPs with two Marine Regiments bound for Noumea and Suva, with CV Saratoga TF providing escort against subs and perhaps the two Jpn AMCs lurking in the south Pacific. The first true resupply/reinforcement convoy is forming up in LA, and should depart on the 12th bound for Auckland. B-17s and PBYs begin flying from Frisco to PH.

In NOPAC, the engineer battalion on Kodiak set sail for Adak, and escorts of 1xCL (Detroit) 2xDD enroute from PH along with 2xDD from Seattle. An aviation engineer battalion is being loaded at Annette Is, enroute to Umnak Is. So far, its been quiet; PBYs out of Dutch Harbor have not seen any sign of the Japanese.

In CENPAC, two Jpn TFs are sighted approaching Wake Is from the south by a SB2U which attacks, claiming a hit on a CL. Other than a few subs in the area, Wake is left to its own devices at this point, no CVs coming to the rescue. Big E TF is heading towards Canton Is to provide cover for the Marine Def Bn TF heading out of PH on the 12th. Lexington TF is moving toward Ocean/Naru Is area to strike the Amph TF reported by CA Louisville (which failed to press its attack, and only damaged a DD).

Still quiet in SOPAC and SWPAC. CL Adelaide has reached Kavieng, and 2xCL 1XDD have reached Noumea, bound for Tulagi where they will rendezvous with 2xUS CAs, then head toward Rabaul. Moving to Cairns are an Aus CA and DD which will join 4xUS DDs from the Asian Fleet. With the KB unseen, my guess is that its enroute to Truk and we’ll see a major thrust towards Rabaul and the Solomons - which will make this CA Striking force assembling very ineffective. But if he moves south without the KB in support, we might be able to derail the Express for a bit.

In the Philippines area, the CVL Ryujo and CA TF covering Jolo move to sink fleeing ships from the PI. The CA TF(s) patrol the Macassar Strait to good effect, sinking a number of ships and blocking the passage. The Ryujo, clearly without any torps remaining for its Kates, moves back toward Babeldaob, hitting shipping moving south from the eastern side of Mindanao. Although a few ships are sunk or damaged, many more seem to be slipping through the net. Laoag is the focus on Luzon for heavy Zero flights covering the airborne drop. The landings on Aparri goes in without opposition. On the positive side, no attacks on troops falling back to defensive positions or attacks on airfields. Also, the first two subs transporting supply dock at Bataan, and the first two interisland resupply xAKLs dock at Lucena offloading supplies.

In the China theater, Japanese forces invest Hong Kong which is under heavy aerial bombardment, damaging three xAKs/xAKLs in the port. All other shipping has departed to run the gauntlet to safer havens. 2/3 of the MTBs attempt to make the PI, the remainder patrol waters off Hong Kong looking for nearby prey. Chinese land forces continue to attempt to redeploy to better defensive ground and a squadron of the Flying Tigers arrives in Changsa.

In Malaya, The withdraw towards positions at the southern end of the peninsula continues without major interference. Japanese air focused in the north, at Georgeotown and Alor Star, and supporting their successful attack at Kota Bharu. The 15th Indian Bde was moving south a bit too slow, and looks like it may be trapped up in Alor Star, the rest of the forces having moved south. While the majority of Commonwealth Forces look to have successfully redeployed, three large Jpn TFs have been sighted in the South China Sea heading due west - assume for now they are heading for Kuantan, but that’s a guess - Singapore air hasn’t been hit, let alone reduced enough to try Mersing, right?

In the DEI, things should heat up quickly. As shipping from the PI moves south, English, American and Dutch warships head north to locate and strike back at the enemy. In the Makassar Straits, the US CA TF (CA, 2xCL, 5xDD) under Adm Shalfroth and Force Z (BB, BC, 3xCL, 8xDD) under Adm Palliser head north toward Jolo. Shalfroth to sink shipping, and Palliser to bombard the airfield. This is a risk, and I’m counting on getting through before Jolo can be fully functional. East of Celebes, Doorman’s TF (2xCL, 5xDD) heads to Manado which has a large Amph TF approaching. On Borneo’s northwest side, 2xDD from the PI currently just arriving at Brunei will interdict the Amph TF approaching Miri as they attempt to make for Java. These two DDs were to be joined by the 2xDD from Hong Kong, but the Brit DDs ran into the CL Sendai and DDs in the South China Sea - losing one DD and heavily damaging another for no reported gain. Lastly, 3xPTs from Manila currently at Puerto Princessa will hit the Japanese at Kudat enroute to Jesselton and hopefully then on to Kuching and Java. Airpower to support these multiple operations will be minimal, with B-17s from Cagayan hitting Jolo and Buffaloes out of Balikpapan providing cover for Force Z while in range. Lots of risk here for this aggressive operation, but with some luck we’ll have some success and keep the enemy off balance - and perhaps a bit cautious in further operations.









Attachment (1)

< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 9/10/2014 7:03:35 PM >

(in reply to traskott)
Post #: 14
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/10/2014 6:15:52 PM   
Wuffer

 

Posts: 402
Joined: 6/16/2011
Status: offline 		thx for the 'During-Action-Report' and your efforts! Really an excellent read (... as usual, one might add). :-)



(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 15
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/10/2014 7:50:59 PM   
Jorge_Stanbury


Posts: 4320
Joined: 2/29/2012
From: Toronto and Lima
Status: offline 		"three large Jpn TFs have been sighted in the South China Sea heading due west - assume for now they are heading for Kuantan, but that’s a guess - Singapore air hasn’t been hit, let alone reduced enough to try Mersing, right? "

If he has carrier support, then he can take care of Singapore's TP bombers regardless. Even a small CAP of zeroes can kill a lot of TP bombers, and even if you get the transports, with the Japanese early bonus there is a good chance most troops would had already landed

< Message edited by Jorge_Stanbury -- 9/10/2014 8:56:37 PM >

(in reply to Wuffer)
Post #: 16
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/10/2014 9:44:47 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline
quote:

"three large Jpn TFs have been sighted in the South China Sea heading due west - assume for now they are heading for Kuantan, but that’s a guess - Singapore air hasn’t been hit, let alone reduced enough to try Mersing, right? " If he has carrier support, then he can take care of Singapore's TP bombers regardless. Even a small CAP of zeroes can kill a lot of TP bombers, and even if you get the transports, with the Japanese early bonus there is a good chance most troops would had already landed



Fully agree about the carrier air support - but would the Zuiho and Hosho be enough? KB can't possibly be in the South China Sea yet, right(started NE of Midway on 8 Dec)? And Ryujo is confirmed in the Celebes Sea, heading east. Have no idea where Taiyo is, but don't think it has sailed around the PI without the Ryujo.

(in reply to Jorge_Stanbury)
Post #: 17
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/10/2014 9:45:36 PM   
IdahoNYer


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Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
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quote:

thx for the 'During-Action-Report' and your efforts! Really an excellent read (... as usual, one might add).
:-)


Thanks Wuffer!

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Post #: 18
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/10/2014 10:27:12 PM   
Jorge_Stanbury


Posts: 4320
Joined: 2/29/2012
From: Toronto and Lima
Status: offline 		Hosho can carry 20 planes, Zuiho 30. both start the war with Claudes, but Japan has 66 Zeros in the pool... Thus it is possible to resize and convert.
50 zeros is possible and they kill many Swordfish

Even if he keeps bombers to work as ASW... You can still look at potentially: 21 zeros in Zuiho and 14 in Hosho.

This of course can be even worst if he gets Singkawang before Mersing

did you count the size of the striking force attacking Pearl Harbor? are you sure all 6 fleet carriers are with KB?


< Message edited by Jorge_Stanbury -- 9/10/2014 11:27:44 PM >

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 19
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/10/2014 11:08:31 PM   
IdahoNYer


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From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline
quote:

This of course can be even worst if he gets Singkawang before Mersing did you count the size of the striking force attacking Pearl Harbor? are you sure all 6 fleet carriers are with KB?


I figure Singkawang first - just like you said to get that airfield operational. I've mined it, but that's about all I can do right now until I can get some surface elements back from their sortie in the Celebes Sea.

As far as the composition of the KB - we did a 8 Dec start, so I know they started out together! Since 8 Dec, haven't got a glimpse.

(in reply to Jorge_Stanbury)
Post #: 20
RE: 8-9 Dec 1941 - 9/11/2014 3:41:37 PM   
Jorge_Stanbury


Posts: 4320
Joined: 2/29/2012
From: Toronto and Lima
Status: offline 		Mines without coastal batteries means he will be capable to sweep them easily if he is careful.. of course that means he will need to devote at least the 1st day to minesweeping, which is also good for you, as every day counts!

And there are many places to invade and so many DMS available, he will need to take his chances on some places or go slower

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 21
12-13 Dec 1941 - 9/13/2014 6:57:38 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		12-13 Dec 1941

Jpn ships sunk:
DD:2 (reportedly by collision in two separate locations!)
xAK:1

Allied ships sunk:
CL:1 (Tromp)
DD:2
PG:1
AM:1
TK:1
xAK:5
xAKL:10

Air loss:
Jpn: 27
Allied: 20

Subwar:
Jpn: 4xAttack: no hits
Allies: 7xAttack: 2xships hit: CA Haguro dam, xAK sunk

Amph Inv:
Hollandia (SWPAC)
Vanimo (SWPAC)
Legaspi (PI)
Miri (DEI)
Wake Is (CENPAC)

Bases lost:
Aparri (PI)
Guam (CENPAC)
Wake Is (CENPAC)
Kudat (DEI)

SIGINT:
Heavy volume of radio traffic detected at Truk: I figure this is the KB arriving at Truk from the PH raid.

“Battle for the Exodus”, heats up as the IJN shifts focus to the more eastern routes south, and has some success in sinking the slower xAKLs and xAKs heading towards Darwin with both CA TFs and naval air. As for the Allied counterthrust into the Celebes Sea, the shifting in IJN focus runs right into Doorman’s strike force heading north with predictable results. Elsewhere in the Pacific, it’s pretty quiet all things considered.

West Coast’s first reinforcement effort departed LA on schedule on the 12th, but the transports didn’t fully load, so they will turn back to LA…that could turn into an expensive goof on my part if the IJN move quickly in the SOPAC. Lesson learned, ensure the transports load fully before having them depart - it takes another turn, but it’s worth it.

In NOPAC, its still quiet. The engineer battalion has reached Dutch Harbor and linked up with escorts and will depart for Adak.

In CENPAC, Wake Is falls without much of a whimper. SB2Us manage 2xbomb hits on an AMC but doesn’t sink, and shore batteries hit 2xCL, and the island falls in the first assault. Big E TF begins to loiter near Christmas Is waiting for the Marine Def Bn TF heading to Canton which departed PH successfully on the 12th. Lexington TF is approaching Ocean/Nauru Is and its searches have seen nothing. Its naval air will hit the port facilities at Nauru if no better targets are found.

Quiet in SOPAC, not even a sub contact.

In SWPAC, in response to Jpn landings on the northern central coast of New Guinea, the CL Adelaide will sortie from Kavieng to disrupt their operations. The assembling Cruiser Strike Force should rendezvous near Russell Island shortly. Air search out of Rabaul has seen only empty ocean.

In the Philippines, Zeros sweep Manila and Clark, but US fighters stay on the ground. US and Filipino ground forces continue to solidify Bataan, Clark and Manila areas. At sea, off Samar, Jpn BBs Ise and Hyuga, coming from the north, attempt to blockade sinking a couple of xAKLs. With only minimal DD escort, we’ll move some PTs and subs into their last known locations.

In the China theater, Japanese ground forces begin bombarding Hong Kong. Flying tigers debut outside of Changsa claiming 6xSonia without loss.

In Malaya, the withdrawal to the south continues, Jpn air attacks focus on the 15th Ind Bde at Alor Star. Still no raids against Singapore.

In the DEI, things did heat up, but not exactly according to plan. It starts out well with the Dutch sub KXIV hitting the CA Haguro off Jolo with a torp (which apparently just scratched the paint, as the Haguro will appear again shortly). The Jpn naval units in the Celebes Sea though weren’t focused on supporting Jolo, they were now focused on stopping the exodus of shipping moving south toward the Ceram Sea and Darwin. Ryujo and at least one CS used almost every available aircraft on naval strike to stop the flow of ships - and it paid off. xAKs and xAKLs were hit by Petes, Jakes, and Claudes (but not a single Kate sortie?). The CA TFs seen in the Malacca Straits sailed around the east coast of Celebes looking for shipping, but also found Doorman’s TF heading north. First encountering CA Myoko and 4xDD, then CA Nachi and 3xDD and then finally CA Haguro and 2xDDs in a series of daylight engagements. Needless to say, the Dutch CLs and DDs came off second best. When the smoke cleared, CL Tromp and 2xDDs were sunk, 2xDDs were heavily damaged and taking refuge in Ternate. CL DeRuyter with 1xDD escaped pretty much without damage. As for the Jpn CA TFs, 2-3 DDs were moderately damaged. Not much of a gain. In the Straits of Malacca, Force Z encountered no opposition and is ready to bombard Jolo come nightfall; they will retire back through the Straits. With no shipping observed near Jolo, Shalfroth’s TF will be diverted to Kendari via the east coast of Celebes - hopefully catching the Jpn CA TFs still trolling for shipping and low on ammo. The other actions of the counter thrust, the 2x US DDs hit the Jpn TF offloading at Miri and managed to cripple an APD and an xAKL, but withdraw toward Batavia without doing further serious damage. Most disappointing was the PTs from Puerto Princessa - they found a single big xAK off Balabac, just SW of Palawan, and failed to score a torp hit! They did make it safely to Jesselton which is something, but without torps of course.










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(in reply to Jorge_Stanbury)
Post #: 22
RE: 12-13 Dec 1941 - 9/16/2014 10:48:59 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		14-15 Dec 1941

Jpn ships sunk:
xAP:1

Allied ships sunk:
PT: 2
MTB: 3
xAK:3
xAKL:1

Air loss:
Jpn: 27
Allied: 14

Subwar:
Jpn: 11xAttack: 3xships hits; CA Louisville hit by 2xtorp (76 flot), 2x xAK sunk
Allies: 9xAttack: 2xships hit: xAP sunk, AV dam

Amph Inv:
Taytay (PI)

Bases lost:
Talaud-eilanden (DEI)
Hollandia (SWPAC)
Vanimo (SWPAC)
Miri (DEI) -looks like hv dam to oil and refinery!
Hong Kong (China) - early collapse frees up the 38th ID and support troops!

SIGINT/Intel:
- 12/4th Division is loaded on xAK moving to Truk: This is a PIR - one of the second echelon divisions is heading to the Pacific and not the DEI/Malaya. Station Hypo’s analysis is that this reduces the threat toward India and signals a early major commitment towards SOPAC.
- CV Kaga sighted 200 miles SW of Marcus Is with 2xDD escort. Presumably heading for Japan?

“Battle for the Exodus”, winds down as ships start arriving in Darwin and Java. Subs for both sides begin to have more targets of opportunity. Hong Kong falls. Overall though, it’s pretty quiet out there.

West Coast is still sorting out convoy departures. A small convoy carrying the 34th Reg to Christmas Is departed as scheduled out of SF. LA is ready to push out AF1 (Auckland Fast) departing on the 17th with TK(11), xAP(2), xAK(3),AKE(1) and escorted by DD(1),KV(1) and an APD(1). While PBYs patrol protecting the approaching of Seattle, SF and LA, no subs have been sighted off the west coast.

In NOPAC, the engineer battalion landed without incident at Adak and work begins to fortify. PBYs are shifted from Dutch Harbor to Adak. So far, so good.

In CENPAC, Lexington TF finds nothing near Nauru Is and will pull back toward Canton to join the Enterprise TF and refuel, then support the Defense Battalion reinforcing Canton Is.

In SOPAC, an RO sub puts 2xtorps into the CA Louisville off Munda while she was enroute to join the CA TF gathering near Rossel Is. PBYs reach Suva and establish an air search while the first B-17s out of PH reach Auckland, enroute to Australia. With the Jpn 4th ID enroute to Truk, reinforcements can’t arrive in SOPAC fast enough.

In SWPAC, CL Adelaide finds nothing near Vanimo, and will patrol the north coast to Hollandia and then return to Rabaul. So far, still quiet. Allied CA/CL TF is assembling at Rossel Is. The first provisional P-40 Squadron arrives in Australia.

In the Philippines, Oscars and Tojos sweep to find the skies empty. Manila receives its first heavy bombing attack of over 80xNetties which does little damage. About 20 US P-40s remain in Luzon, split between Bataan and Manila, but they’re staying on the ground for a while. Was a bit surprised to see 2xBBs bombarding Cagayan - fortunately not causing too much damage as that is where remaining B-17s are based. xAKLs and subs continue to bring in limited supplies from as far away as Tarakan, and that will continue for as long as possible. The Exodus is pretty much over. Although a number of ships were lost, many made it through - to include 2xAS and all warships. A couple of xAKs are still fleeing toward Midway - one even blundered into the CV Kaga and 2xDD about 200 miles south of Marcus Is - fortunately the weather was bad and the xAK continued east without further incident.

In the China theater, Japanese ground forces take Hong Kong on the second assault. This was after Jpn BBs bombarded - was hoping for a bit more lengthy fight here. Flying tigers did well outside of Changsa again, tallying about 20+ Nates for no loss. With Hong Kong fight over, time to move the AVG out of Changsa as I’m sure it will get some significant airpower against it shortly.

In Malaya, the 15th Indian Bde is isolated east of Alor Star as the unit apparently got lost enroute south. It will try and head towards Patani and disrupt Jpn operations there. Not really much preventing the Japanese from heading south along the west coast with the 15th Bde getting lost. Georgetown retains a small battalion size garrison, and I’ll push up a battalion to Taiping to delay south, but the first heavy resistance the Jpn will hit is at Kluong. Still no air attacks against Singapore. Brit units withdrawing from Tavoy are hit by Jpn Army planes, and the one squadron of AVG in Rangoon will fly some LR Cap to see if they can interdict the next raid.

In the DEI, Force Z successfully bombards Jolo - which only had Jakes on it - to fairly good effect and withdrew back down the Malacca Straits towards Java. Shalfroth’s Cruiser TF came up empty east of Celebes as the Jpn CA TFs had withdrawn, and will arrive in Kendari shortly. Jpn subs are moving into the Java Sea, with a couple of unescorted xAKs sunk off Singkawang (coming from Hong Kong) and the damaged Brit DM Thracian being missed at least three times. In Java, ships arriving from the PI aren’t staying long, they are heading back out toward Cape Town, Perth, Darwin or Colombo as soon as they refuel.



(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 23
RE: 16-17 Dec 1941 - 9/17/2014 11:04:13 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		16-17 Dec 1941

Jpn ships sunk:
CM:1

Allied ships sunk:
PT: 1
AM:1
xAK:1
xAKL:1
YO:1

Air loss:
Jpn: 6
Allied: 3

Subwar:
Jpn: 2xAttack: 2xships hits; xAK sunk, xAK dam
Allies: 5xAttack: 2xships hit: CM sunk, AO dam

Amph Inv:
None

Bases lost:
Alor Star (Malaya)
Langkawi (Malaya)
Taytay (PI)
Tuguegarao (PI)
Vigan (PI)

SIGINT/Intel:
NSTR (Nothing significant to report)

A very quiet two days. Minimal activity across the Pacific, although activity looks to be increasing in the Celebes Sea.

West Coast is getting convoys sported out. Convoy AF1 totaling 17 ships with 3 escorts departed as scheduled on the 17th. AF 2 is forming to depart on the 18th and is a major troop push for SOPAC and SWPAC transporting 3xEng units, a Base Force, 2xCst Art, Marine Def Bn, AA Bn, two Marine HQ, a Marine F and DB squadron. Basically every unit I can assemble and move without costing PPs. Of course, as convoys are starting to get sorted out, the first contact with a Jpn sub is made just south of SF.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, an RO class sub torpedoes and damages a lone xAK north of Wake Is - fleeing from PI. Otherwise, quiet.

In SOPAC, the first US troops arrive in Noumea - a Base Force and 2xFA Bns begin offloading. Convoy LAF 1 (Los Angeles Fast) consisting of 34 empty ships from the ANZAC areas with only 2xescorts assembles in Auckland to depart on the 18th.

In SWPAC, CL Adelaide returns to Rabaul. CA TF (2xCA,3xCL, DDs) assembled at Rossel Is refuels and awaits the Japanese thrust. CA Louisville still afloat, creeping to Townsville with one DD as escort. Outlying garrisons in New Guinea and Kavieng are being slowly evac’d to Horn Is by seaplane.

In the Philippines, heavy Jpn air raids on Manila port sink a few remaining ships, but miss the AS - which is the only ship left that matters. Jpn army forces begin moving south from Aparri. xAKLs with subs continue to bring in supplies, but the clock is ticking down on the xAKLs ability to transit around the PI and the Celebes Sea.

In China NSTR.

In Malaya, NSTR.

In the DEI, Force Z returns to Soerabaja, rearms, and becomes the Center Striking Force. Repulse is detached with 3xDDs and will sail for Batavia where it will link up the newly arrived CA Exeter and CL Enterprise with additional Brit, Dutch and US DDs forming the Western Striking Force. Shalfroth picks up the remaining ships from Doorman’s TF awaits the next move at Kendari as the Eastern Striking Force (CA, 3xCL, 6xDD). Major Jpn naval elements are observed moving back into the Celebes Sea. We wait the next push.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 24
RE: 18-19 Dec 1941 - 9/20/2014 6:30:45 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		18-19 Dec 1941

Jpn ships sunk:
xAP:1

Allied ships sunk:
SS: 1
xAK:1
xAKL:4

Air loss:
Jpn: 4
Allied: 4

Subwar:
Jpn: 5xAttack: 1xship hit; SS (KVIII) sunk off Kuching by I-164 80m NW of Sambas
Allies: 3xAttack: 2xships hit: xAP sunk, xAKL dam

Amph Inv:
Manado (DEI)
Surigao (PI)

Bases lost:
Georgetown (Malaya)
Banggi (DEI)
Jesselton (DEI)
Hwaiyin (China)
Kweiteh (China)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

Another pretty quiet two days, but things are building up in the DEI. Bad weather apparently grounds many Jpn air raids in the Malaya/PI areas. Minimal activity across the western Pacific other than subs. Jpn thrusts moving on Kuching and Menado in the DEI area.

West Coast. Convoy AF2 now to depart LA on 20 Dec. The first slow convoy will form up within a week. xAP Queen Elizabeth preparing for a solo transport mission to Auckland.

In NOPAC, engineers land on Umnak to begin building an airstrip. Still quiet in the Aleutians.

In CENPAC, as the Canton Island reinforcement convoy nears within 100 miles Canton, TF Lex ASW patrols pick up 2x subs in the vicinity of both the CV TF and Canton Is. TF Lex will move south out of the projected sub’s path. Enterprise TF refuels SSE of Christmas Is and will move to join Sara TF heading near Pago Pago, leaving the Lexington near Canton for the time being; I want Lex to head to PH to re-equip with F4F-3s and linkup with Yorktown in the next few weeks. With luck, it will remain quiet in the Western Pacific.

In SOPAC it remains quiet, no contact. Convoy LAF 1 departed on schedule from Auckland and Convoy LAS1 (slow convoy) with 40 ships will depart Auckland on the 20th. It will drop (3)xAPs and excorts at Penrhyn Is to pick up the US Port Maint Eng Bn that arrived there as a reinforcement and return it to Auckland. Until the convoys out of LA reach Auckland, escorts are in very, very short supply.

In SWPAC, 5xBanshee arrive in Rabaul, the rest of the provisional US Army squadrons remain in Australia training. Rabaul will attempt a PBY recon over Truk on the 20th to see what is brewing.

In the Philippines, torpedo armed Kates attack the Cebu area sinking a couple of xAKLs resupplying Luzon. Strikes seem a bit heavy for the Ryujo, so perhaps the Kaga is in the Philippine Sea? With weather clearing and carrier planes back, the (4)xAKLs currently offloading at Lucena south of Manila could be the last surface resupply. Jpn land on Mindinao at Surigao unopposed. Still, we can still strike back - 5xMTBs from Hong Kong moving towards Tarakan will sortie against suspected shipping near Jolo.

In China two bases are lost as the Chinese forces abandon eastern open hexes. Jpn ground forces catch a withdrawing Chinese Corps in the open near Sinyang causing over 4k casualties.

In Malaya, Georgetown rear guard falls as expected. 28th Gurkha Bde arrives at Mersing, solidifying the positions north of Singapore. Now we dig and wait for the Jpn ground forces to march south.

In the DEI, Jpn land at Manado supported by a major surface escort (search shows multiple BBs - at least one Kongo BB confirmed). Kuching is also approached by an invasion TF, escorted by a CA TF. The Eastern Striking Force (CA, 3xCL, DDs) at Kendari isn’t enough to disrupt the landing at Menado, and will remain at Kendari. Establishing bases at both Jolo and Menado will effectively shut down the Celebes Sea for both counterattack and resupplying Luzon, but he’s massing forces covering the Menado landing and its not worth expending the few naval assets available for little expected gain. However, the landing at Kuching is still relatively exposed - unless there’s a CV TF unidentified in the South China Sea of course! The Western Striking Force (BC, CA, 3xCL, DDs) will sortie to disrupt the Kuching landings - supported by as much air that can range from Singapore and remaining bases in Borneo. The Center Force, with the PoW will remain in Soerabaja, conducting some minor repairs.










Attachment (1)

< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 9/20/2014 7:33:24 PM >

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 25
RE: 18-19 Dec 1941 - 9/21/2014 3:17:07 AM   
Jorge_Stanbury


Posts: 4320
Joined: 2/29/2012
From: Toronto and Lima
Status: offline 		Good luck!

are you planning to run at full speed? be careful with fuel... you might want to keep one TK fully loaded in Palembang or Pontianak in case you spend a lot of fuel during battle

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 26
RE: 18-19 Dec 1941 - 9/21/2014 5:06:32 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline
quote:

are you planning to run at full speed?



I seldom, if ever use full speed. Mission speed should get me around Pontianak at the end of the first day, and then into Kuching during the next night pulse. Two day sail time, hit on second night.

(in reply to Jorge_Stanbury)
Post #: 27
20-21 Dec 1941; Raid on Rabaul - 9/21/2014 10:09:50 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		20-21 Dec 1941

Jpn ships sunk:
CL:1 (Kashii)
DMS:2
AK:1
xAK:1

Allied ships sunk:
CL: 2 (Adelaide, Durban)
PT:2
xAKL:2

Air loss:
Jpn: 27
Allied: 43

Subwar:
Jpn: 1xAttack: no ships hit
RO-66 heavily damaged (if not sunk) by DCs off DD Phelps at Canton Is.
Allies: 2xAttack: 1xship hit: CL (Kashii) dam
Swordfish dam by A/C off Foochow (should make port)
O-16 dam by A/C off Babeldaob (should make port)
(Heavy increase in Jpn LBA devoted to ASW the past two turns)

Amph Inv:
Kuching (DEI)

Bases lost:
Victoria Point (Burma)
Surigao(PI)
Naga (PI)
Bayombong (PI)

SIGINT/Intel:
KB sighted in the Solomon Sea. PIR triggered; likely prelude to invasion of Rabaul and potentially Port Moresby.

Tempo seems to be picking up in a few areas. KB makes a surprise visit in the Solomon Sea, avoiding all searches and hitting Rabaul. Battle of Kuching is the first Allied victory (at least from the Allied point of view!) of the war.

West Coast. Convoy AF2 (22 ships incl 5 escorts) departed LA on 20 Dec and was immediately attack by an I-boat off the Channel Islands. At least one, maybe two I-boats are in the vicinity of LA/San Diego and well focus some ASW efforts (be what they may in Dec ’41) to attempt to clear the area. xAP Queen Elizabeth begins loading the 53rd (Sep) In Reg, bound for SOPAC.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, as the 3rd Mar DB begins offloading at Canton Is, RO-66 fails to penetrate the screen and is heavily damaged by DD Phelps. CVs Lex and Enterprise patrol some 200 miles SSE and prepare to refuel from AO Neosho.

In SOPAC, Convoy LAS1 with 40 ships (3xescort) departed Auckland as scheduled on the 20th. With the sighting of the KB in the Solomon Sea, Noumea port will empty shortly - just in case.

In SWPAC, the KB avoids Rabaul’s air search and appears as if by magic in the Solomon Sea about 200 miles NNW of Rossel Is on the 20th and launches a large strike against Rabual’s port and airfield doing moderate damage - Rabaul’s defenses are minimal (8xCatalina, 5xBanshee, 8xB17s). What was surprising (and very, very fortunate) was the KB not sighting the CA TF loitering at Rossel Is - which will now make itself very scarce. I figured that Rossel Is was far enough out of harm’s way if they KB came calling at Rabaul - never expected him to head into the Solomon Sea before hitting Rabual! On the 21st, the KB moved off Finschhafen, hitting Rabaul again, this time massing against the CL Adelaide which is hit over 10 times and is sunk. Based on the size of the strikes, the KB has at least 5xCV. If the KB stays in full support, this likely signals the start to seize not only Rabaul, but also Moresby and bases in the Solomons. That said, coastal shipping along Australia’s NE coast is already being diverted, just in case the KB decides to raid the Australian coast - which there really isn’t much that can prevent that at this point in the war.




In the Philippines, Jpn take Naga as they start to march towards Manila from the south. Surigao falls unopposed.

In China the corps screening Kaifeng is pushed back with heavy loss. We continue to delay towards the west, and hope our forces move just fast enough to prevent encirclement. Did I mention I hate China?

In Malaya, Singapore gets full treatment by Zero sweeps which do their job against the Buffalo. Still, Singapore reaches fort level 3 and packed with heavy AA. Buffaloes will now focus on escorting naval strikes should the IJN come within range.






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< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 9/21/2014 11:11:13 PM >

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Post #: 28
20-21 Dec 1941; Kuching - 9/21/2014 10:12:31 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		In the DEI, Manado falls quickly as expected. Not as expected was the Battle of Kuching, in which the British TF had some incredible good luck, which of course is quite rare in Dec ’41. The battle starts off on the 20th with the Dutch sub KXIII missing DD Fubuki while penetrating the harbor, and then putting 2xtorp into the CL Kashii which burns, but does not sink. On the 21st, the burning Kashii draws Adm Younger’s Western Striking Force as Younger somehow manages to avoid the surface task force guarding the invasion. Although likely already mortally wounded, the Kashii, along with DD Ayanami, attempt to buy time for the IJN ships to get underway. Kashii draws most of the attention and goes down fighting, and before Ayanami can put a torp into CL Durban, the invasion TF is mauled.




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Post #: 29
RE: 20-21 Dec 1941; Kuching 2 - 9/21/2014 10:14:34 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		The scuffle with the transports does get the attention of the powerful IJN surface force which intercepts Younger before he can make good his escape. With moonlight at only 7%, both sides close to 7000 yds before the IJN opens fire and Younger’s ships engage CA Ashigara, quickly setting her afire by a 15” shell from Repulse. Despite being heavily outnumbered, Younger does not attempt to withdraw, but continues to close the range. In the confused melee that follows, the British ships somehow avoid every torpedo fired from all IJN ships. Repulse shrugs off numerous hits, none which penetrate her armor. CA Exeter and CL Enterprise also take gunnery damage, but nothing hitting vitals. British gunnery concentrates on CA Ashigara which takes 20 hits ranging in caliber from 4” to 15” and is left with heavy fires and heavy damage - likely not survivable. Ranges varied from 7000 to 5000, then out to 11,000 and back down to 6000 before finally disengaging - a long, confused fight. Both sides gunnery was poor, but torpedo accuracy (fortunately) was atrocious - not a single torp from either side found their mark. Following the fight, both sides withdrew, the IJN force (less Ashigara) stumbling on the damaged CL Durban with a DD escort and putting the CL under the waves without much problem. Exeter and Enterprise are also detached with 2xDDs as escort, but successfully clear the area. Now, if the British ships, now in two TFs with minimal escort from prowling subs can make it back to Soerabaja….




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