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WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion

 
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WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/9/2006 10:54:41 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		Hello,

I set up a campaign starting in June 1944 with a reinforced German parachute batallion on the Western front. My idea is to fight battles similar to those the Green Devils saw in France, Netherlands, Belgium and the Lower Rhine region.

I try to configure the single battles that they "fit" more or less to the situations the paratroopers saw. Therefore, I incorporate maps delivered with the game or change artificial maps in a way that they make sense. Finally, I change the AI troops in a way that they make also sense and the whole force does not look so "gamey".

First battle will be a hypothetical counter attack (actual a "advance" mission") south of Carentan on June 7th, 1944. Forces are:

1 x Parachute Batallion (maybe III./FJ Rgt 6) consisting of
3 x Parachute Companies (with K98 instead of FG 42 because I never read that it was used in front line with the
exception of Operation "Eiche")
1 x Heavy Company (1 x MG Platoon, used SS to simulate Elite character, 1 x LG 75mm section, 2 x 81mm
Mortar section;normally, the heavy company had 2 MG platoons but FJR 6 was low on MGs)
1 x Light Howitzer battery (75mm, I "play" that ArtRgt 191 from 91. GrenDiv to which FJRgt was subordinated gave one
battery to that combat group, this regiment had 75mm Mountain howitzers)
1 x Tank company with H 35 (assumed that Panzerbrigade 100 which was on the Contentin peninsular gave a company to
the battle group)
1 x 88 FlaK battery (8 tubes) vor AT purpose (assumed that an anonymous batallion gave a battery to the battle group;
FJR 6 had more or less no AT guns)
1 x StuG III battery (to have at least a little bit of armour)

Battle group is for the mission reinforced with a batallion of 105 mm howitzers (most common artillery in German army) and 2 platoons of motorcycle infantery for reckon (very common in the reckon company/batallion of the parachute divisions)

Enemy will be US paratroops (as historically), later reinforced with tanks and infantry. I gave the AI also strong airforce and naval artillery to simulate the situation directly after D-Day

Give me a respond if you are interested in battle reports...

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.
Post #: 1
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/9/2006 11:56:09 AM   
Korpraali V


Posts: 659
Joined: 7/11/2005
From: Finland
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: Zardoz

Give me a respond if you are interested in battle reports...


a respond







_____________________________


(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 2
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/9/2006 1:23:09 PM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline



as requested ?

War Diary III./FJR 6 05.06.1944

Korps Commander General Marcks and Regimental leader Major Freiherr v. d. Heydte decided to build up a battle group around III./FJR which should function as a reserve on the Contentin peinsular. Battle group will be named after the batallion leader Hauptmann Wenskat "Kampfgruppe Wenskat". Reinforcements will be 2. Kompanie of Panzerbrigade 100, 3. Batterie of Artillerieregiment 191 and 1. Batterie of StuG Abteilung 202. Furthermore, 2. Batterie of Flak Abteilung 352 will be attached.

Deceision was made since desertion of all drivers coming from Alsaque, activities of French marquis and the bombing of bridges, crossings and railroads around Carentan and Coutances gives evidence that the invasion will occur in the next couples of days. Korps and 7. Armee assume that invasion will take place in their area


War Diary Kampfgruppe Wenskat 06.06.1994

Cotentin penisular was subject to heavy bombing in the nigth of 5/6 06.1944. Outposts reported parachute and gilder landings. Korps, Regiment and kampfgruppe were immediately alarmed. Kampfgruppe was given the task to organise at Carentan because support elements had not yet reached III./FJR 6

Parts of the Jäger Companies were involved in local skirmishing with hostile paratroopers. Enemy was identified as US paratroops. Division or divisions are yet unclear since prisoners show high morale and give no answers than name and rank.

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Korpraali V)
Post #: 3
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/9/2006 2:13:45 PM   
IBTyrone


Posts: 432
Joined: 7/29/2003
From: Kentucky, USA
Status: offline 		Another "respond"

Keep it up, Zardoz!

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 4
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/9/2006 3:19:49 PM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		(Map is the Normandy map in the game pack with the "Elle river" in the South"


War Diary Kampfgruppe Wenskat 07.06.1944

Kampfgruppe got in the night the order to attack southward from Carentan. Enemy (identified as US troops) has erected a beachhead and already taken St. Mere Eglise. Strength and quality of the enemy there is still unclear beside the fact that 101. and 82 US Parachute Divisions have been identified.

The task of the Kampfgruppe is to push back the enemy perimeter and make contact with I./FJR 6 which is in danger to be encircled.

The Jäger companies and the attached parts of Art.Rgt 191 and 2./PzBrigade 100 have reached in the night the north side of the Elle river. The other parts of the battle group have been delayed by heavy sea based artillery fire. Contact to them is lost. According to the last information they will reach the start position for the attack within 1 or 2 hours. However, it is no time to wait and the attack must be started without them. Fortunately, contact was created with the survivors of ArtRgt. 191, 91. Gren Div which is able to support the battle group with 3 batteries of 10,5 cm howitzers.

War Diary Kampfgruppe Wenskat 07.06.1944 7:00

Attack started at 7:00 in the morning. 9. Kompanie is situated in the South of the operational area , supported by the MG platoon and the LG platoon of 12. (heavy) Kompanie. Furthermore 1 Platoon of 2./PzBgd 100 has been attached. The company has the task to take the bridges over the Elle and to secure the town situated north at the river. It is assumed that the south bank of the river is already in the hands of the enemy as well as the southwest part of the town.

11. Kompanie will attack in the centre of the operational area, support 9. Kompanie in taking the town and take hill 102 situated northwest of the town. it is assumed that hill 102 allows to control artillery fire and must therefore be taken. The company is reinforced with a platoon of 2./PzBgd 100 and a Kradschützen platoon.

10. Kompanie attacks in the north with the task to secure vital crossroads and, if possible, to take the town in the Northwest edge of our operational area. However, the last task should be tried to fullfilled with a"Stosstrupp" infiltrating the enemy frontline rather than an attack. One platoon of 1o. Kompanie is kept as batallion reserve. The company is supported by the rest of 2./PzBgd 100.

Attack started with a surprising success. After a preparing artillery barrage the Kradschützen took both bridges over the Elle intact without any resistance. In the other areas the companies marched forward and contact with the enemy is not yet made.


War Diary Kampfgruppe Wenskat 07.06.1944 7:15

9. Kompanie has made contact with the enemy. Strong infantery groups suppported by jeeps attack our bridge head at the South most bridge. At the moment only one squad of a Kradschützen platoon and a LG hold the position. The town is to about 2/3 in our hand. However, in the Southend of the town, a hostile infantery concentration was detected. A strong enemy attack is suspected in the next 15 minutes.

In the centre, the Kradschützen were ambushed by the enemy and suffered heavy losses. The firefight alarmed the 11.Kompanie which prepared a definsive perimeter to hold the central cross road

10. Kompanie in the North approaches without any resistance.

Artillery fire is directed on the enemy.

7:30

In the centre, a group of the enemy was ambushed and lost several jeeps. Our artillery fire has hit the enemy and his march stopped. 11. Kompanie reorganises to attack him and push him back. Our Jäger appreciate the effective support by the H 35. Losses are light at the moment.

In the north, 10 Kompanie has still not made contact

In the south, 9. Kompanie was able to support the bridgehead just in time with a Jäger platoon. Fighting is heayy, one LG is lossed, but the enemy losses are much higher, especially because of our well aimed artillery fire. The bridge head is under heavy hostile mortar fire.

At the South side of town the first attack of the enemy was stopped. One H 35 was lost by a Bazooka hit. The enemy, identified as US paratroopers try to infiltrate the town. 9. Kompanie fall back to the next row of houses to set up a prepared defense because the company seems to be outnumbered by the enemy.


In the centre, we meet only light resistance and assume to overcome it in the next 15 minutes


War Diary Kampfgruppe Wenskat 07.06.1944 7:45

10. Kompanie made contact with the enemy in the North. Resistance is only light and it is assumed that the approach is not stopped very long.

I./11. Kompanie came under heavy fire of hostile naval guns. 2/3 of the platoon were wounded or killed. The rest must reorganise. Jabos attacked tanks of 2/PzBgd 100. 3 tanks were destroyed with no survivors. One tank was knocked out by a bazooka, 1 tank broke down.

11. Kompanie still holds all crossroads and repulsed an enemy attack with losses for him. Own losses with the exception of I/11. Kp are still light.

9. Kompanie prepares for a suspected enemy attack. The enemy has alread infiltrated the town with some squads. MG platoon has the task to destroy them. At the NorthWest edge of the town at the Elle river the enemy took cover as he was hit with our mortar fire.At the South bridge all enemy attacks were beaten off. However , the defending platoon is under heavy mortar fire. a second platoon was able to cross the bridge.

Overall, the situation has now changed much. With the execption of 1o. Kompanie in the North, all companies have taken defensive positions. Tanks cannot operate in the open any longer. All company leaders got order to keep their units moving to avoid losses by naval fire.

No contact with our reinforcements yet.




_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 5
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/9/2006 7:42:54 PM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wenskat 07.06.1944 8:00

Enemy attacked our positions in the South and the centre. Only in the northmost part of the operation area II. platoon of 10. Kompanie approaches without meeting any resistances. Scouts of the platoon have already reached the Northeast outskirts of the town in the Northwest.

On the main road crossing in the Northern area the enemy has concentrated about a company and attacks the defending III. platoon of 10. Kompanie. Good positioning of snipers and scouts allows well aimed own artillery fire and pins down the enemy. Enemy losses must be here severe. III./10 Kompanie falls back 100m to take cover and await the enemy. Own artillery is aimed on the old defensive position to surprise the enemy when he attacks.

Further south 11. Kompanie has recovered from heavy artillery fire and its spearheads have reached hill 102. Leading platoon prepares the attack.

The town at the Elle river was hit by naval artillery fire and air attacks. The centre of the town is devastated and burns. Losses were severe. One squad was totally wiped ot when the building they hided collapsed after a hit. However, 9. Kompanie stubbornly repulsed all attacks and also counterattacks. Leutnant Zimmermann, leader of I./9.Kompanie took advantage of the fact that the naval barrage hit also the enemy and caused disorganisation in their lines and pushed the perimeter further west. This allows good observation of enemy action in the town and helps aiming our artillery and mortars.

In the Southern bridgehead, 9. Kompanie could hold its postion even though attempts to further penetrate were not successfull. Own artillery was very effective and caused a high toll from the enemy. Own losses grew in the last minutes because the bridgehead was target to fire from medium naval guns. Here, too, some grenades were bad aimed and hit the enemy position.

Tanks of 2./PzBgd 100 are constantly harassed by Jabos. One tank got a direct hit and exploded.

Overall, activity of the enemy slowed down and had less pressure. It is hoped that his high losses consumed already part of his fighting power.

First elements of our 88 battery reached the area. Deployment is a problem because streets are under permanent straffing from the air.

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 6
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/10/2006 1:52:56 AM   
PimpYourAFV

 

Posts: 581
Joined: 9/30/2005
From: Japan
Status: offline
Zardoz, nicely written report and great idea for a battle design. Are you going to post a scenario or campaign of this for us to play?

I have to admit I'm frightened of the numbers you mentioned. It sounds like you have about 5 companies of units to control. Is that right? Wow. I have a total of one company for my core in my game and it is plenty for my small brain to try and handle. Do you put most of them on AI control? I always put support infantry on AI to reduce micromanagement. How long does it take you to do one turn?

Keep the story coming dude. I will be reading it.

_____________________________


(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 7
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/10/2006 9:49:28 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		Hi Tokioboy,

thank you very much. I have to confess that iIam sticked to this scale of battle report because my English is not good enough to write an "emotional report" like a soldier in the fighting as for example KG Erwin had done. However, this report should have the breath of an "official" German war diary which were always very casual.

The number of units is really a bit high. 3 infantry companies, 1 heavy company, finally 2 tank companies and a AT company. I stick to this because for me slow scale actions ..a company or so...are a bit gamey..more commando-style. And my phantasy for commando-style operations is a bit limited. And..making a mistake with a small force can be very tremendeous.

I have not yet looked on the watch.... i do not know how long it takes to play a turn.

I have saved the battle as a scenario. I can give it to you, no problem. But I have to warn you. I do not know whether the battle is really outbalanced. I have the impression it is not and the AI has an advantage. Furthermore, one explanation. I changed the names of leaders but they are not historically even they look now more real (at least for Germans....I hate it having 3 Tychsen in my force and 2 Achtzehn....not very common names in Germany *s*)

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to PimpYourAFV)
Post #: 8
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/10/2006 10:07:18 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wenskat 07.06.1944 8:45

Suffering constant losses 9. Kompanie is down to 20 - 30 men. Losses were heavy due to close range fighting with machine pistols and hand grenades. All attempts to further widen the bridge head were beaten off by the enemy with severe losses for 9. Kompanie. Oberleutnant Jungbluth, leader of 9. Kompanie has requested permission to retreat on the east bank of Elle river and to evacuate the bridgehead. Enemy has brought in tanks. All attacks with infantry AT weapons against them personally lead by Jungbluth were without effect. Furthermore, 9. Kompanie even with support of 11. Kompanie is not able to hold the town any longer. Permission to act at free will was granted. Jungbluth will try to retreat and destroy the Sothern (wood) bridge.

Batallion reserve has been released and has reached the Northeastern part of the town. A platoon of 11. Kompanie supported by 3 tanks of 2./PzBgd. 100 have been orderd to perform a flanking attack against the town from the North. The attack makes good progress. Other elements of 11. Kompanie have already taken hill 102 without any resistance. In the central part 10. Kompanie has stopped the enemy effort to retake the vital crossing there. The infiltrating platoon has reached with spotters the town in the Northwest and controls the road crossing there. An emey HQ, presumably of a brigade or batallion, was detected and a squad was given the task to ambush it.

88 battery has reached in full strengt the front. Battery will set up a defensive position at the central crossroad as well as at the East bank of the Elle river to stop the suspected enemy tank assault there.

Kampfgruppe sufferd less from air attacks and naval artillery. Several own mortars are already out of ammo. No supply possible because all transports to the front were hit by enemy air attacks.

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 9
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/10/2006 10:39:50 AM   
Korpraali V


Posts: 659
Joined: 7/11/2005
From: Finland
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: Zardoz

I changed the names of leaders but they are not historically even they look now more real (at least for Germans....I hate it having 3 Tychsen in my force and 2 Achtzehn....not very common names in Germany *s*)



Some of the name choices are really quite funny. Seeing the former presidents or generals of Finland in squad leaders. Many of their names were very rare at that time (nowadays as well).

_____________________________


(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 10
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/10/2006 1:43:34 PM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wenskat 07.06.1944 9:30

Hauptmann Wenskat, leading a counterattack in the Eastern part of the town ath Elle river, was killed in action. Command of the battle group has been taken over by Oberleutnant von Alzey, leader of 12. Kompanie.

9. Kompanie has been almost annihilated after been attacked by light tanks. Its leader, Oberleutnant Jungbluth was killed in action. The survivors of the company, roughly 10 men, are dispersed, hide in the bridgehead or try to get connection with own troops in the the town at the Elle river. Enemy has taken the Southern bridge which could not yet be destroyed and has reached the Eastern side of the second bridge. However, 2 light tanks were knocked out by Hauptmann Bachmann, leader of 2./PzBgd. 100 with his PzJg 38, the only vehicle of the company with a gun over 3,7 cm

Jäger of 10. Kompanie (reserve platoon), elements of 11. Kompanie and 12. Kompanie hold still the Eastern outskirts of the town and repulse all attacks of the enemy with heavy losses for him. The enemy was reinforced with 2 tank destroyers of "Wolverine" type and 1armoured car. Tanks were destroyed in close aussault by members of 10. Kompanie. Armoured car was knocked out by Sergeant brunner and his H 35. However, H 35 is more or less useless in combat against enemy tanks because his armor can easily be penetrated even by 3,7cm guns and its optic to abd to fight on larger ranges. it is only suited for infantry support when the enemy has no AT guns.

After taking hill 102 advacing elements of 11. Kompanie, supported by 1 H 35, surprised an enemy AT gun, destroyed it, and were able to knock out an enemy mortar position with 3 60 mm tubes.

The central road crossing is still in the hands of 10. Kompanie after repulsing several assaults. Defending was effective supported by 2 88 guns used for direct fire support. Enemy flees and seems to be more or less annihilated. II./10. Kompanie has completely surprised the enemy HQ and destroyed it and a comand post. Furthermore, the spearhead of an enemy recconaissance columm was ambushed. Fighting is still raging.

The StuG battery has now reached the front. Parts counter attackt the enemy near the Elle River on the East side and destroyed an enemy Stuart tank. It seems to be possible to retake the bridge. 2 StuG III support 11. Kompanie in the town. One StuG was destroyed by a bazooka. Battery leader and some additonal StuG will try to support 11. Kompanie and secure lanes to the West. becasue the enemy has already tanks it must be considere d that he might receive more reinforcements from the beachhead.

One 88 was destroyed by a Jabo. 2 guns are used to secure the bridge in the Eastern part of our operational area. other guns have taken position in the town to secure the main roads.

Morale of the enemy has significantly dropped as a result of his heavy losses. However, morale of our troops is also quite low as they heard that their beloved leader Hauptmann Wenskat was killed. (i.e. Moral of both sides is broken...at least the US moral 2 game turns earlier)


_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Korpraali V)
Post #: 11
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/10/2006 5:20:27 PM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wenskat 07.06.1944 16:30
Elements of 10. and 11. Kompanie cleared the town at the Elle River. Also, the the South bridge is our. In the centre and the North all companies are marching forward as enemy is in full retreat, as it seemed.

StuG battery represents now the main force and keeps high pace to get connection with I./FJR 6. However, without infantry it is a dangerous task in the hedgerow country. Jäger must keep back and secure objects and with regard to our own high losses, the tanks can only be supported with very weak elements.

10. Kompanie ambushes a columm in the Northwest. 2. aroured cars and a halftrakc could be destroyed. Platoon must retreat because the columm turned to have strong armour support.

StUg battery prepared for the battle and attacked the enemy. Quickly it was to reckognise that we are again outnumbered. A chaotic battle started because visibility was low and enemy tanks seemed to be everywhere. Battery Commander of the StuG died in his tank. Even we were again able to inflict high casualties to the enemy, we had to accept that our forces are to weak to achieve a breakthrough. The enemy retreated after the firefight and we took defensive position with the centre in the town at the Elle.

Regiment and Korps appreciate our efforts. Even we were not able to achieve a breakthrough, the enemy paid a high price for it.

Own losses are

Men 501
Artillery 2
Soft vehicle 6
APC (?) 1
AFV 14

von Alzey
Interim Company Commander


Enemy losses were

Men 1o90
Artillery 11
Soft vehicle 1
APC 14
AFV 22

Result was a draw even most V-hexes were held by me at the "sudden death" end of the battle


Hm....I think was to aggressive and lost several squads when I attempted to retake the town and to penetrate the bridgehead. StuG were not very useful in the close combat in the bocage and Ihad the disadvantage of low firerate. Furthermore the better penetration at longer range could not be used. Only, sometimes with 88 guns well positioned. Naval fire was very unpleasant and caused many losses.

beside the fact that the kill rate in the game is much to high...have batallion lost in 1 1/2 hour real time (gt at 5 minutes?) the battle coudl gave an impression of the war in the Normandy. Towns devasted, German forces fight courageous but are outnumbered.

AI forces were

5 parachute companies
1 heavy company
2 combat groups
1 Cav reckon group
1 Platoon M5 Stuart
4 Thunderbolts
2 destroyer
1 cruiser
1 battery 75mm pack howitzer
1 company 5,7 mm AT






_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 12
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/12/2006 5:07:28 PM   
PimpYourAFV

 

Posts: 581
Joined: 9/30/2005
From: Japan
Status: offline
Nice fight. I prefer your report style which is good 'n clean. No heavy descriptions of some commander having emotional problems or smoking addictions. You should post this as a public scenario. There's never anything wrong with having the AI's army being stronger than the human's side. That's the way I like my battles cause I like a challenge to survive a hard firefight.

_____________________________


(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 13
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/12/2006 6:13:10 PM   
Wild Bill

 

Posts: 6821
Joined: 4/7/2000
From: Smyrna, Ga, 30080
Status: offline 		Nice action and nice reporting...WB

_____________________________


In Arduis Fidelis
Wild Bill Wilder
Independent Game Consultant

(in reply to PimpYourAFV)
Post #: 14
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/13/2006 10:54:54 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		Thank you very much for your comments.

I have a version of the battle as a scenario....the campaign does not work...where shoud I post it? Is there a special thread for such things?

To BW...

*s*...would be also a nice idea for a campaign or even mega campaign....I would have already the title "Broken wings....Green Devils on the ground in the West"

They were involved in many dramatic battles, Carentan, St. Lo, Albert Canal, Nimwegen, Kleve, Moyland and finally "Varsity"

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Wild Bill)
Post #: 15
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/13/2006 10:55:42 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		I forgot the battle of the bulge...

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 16
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/21/2006 6:06:27 PM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		Since my files crashed, i had to set up a new campaign....forces are the same as in the last campaign with the difference that i did not purchase agian a H 35 company and the heavy company has now not only one but two MG platoons.

Motorisation is scare and totally mixed...for historical reasons....2. FJ Div, which is the mother of the battle group in this game, had only 5 % of the scheduled motor transport and this was a mixture from 4 nations and about 20 types... so i have 2Kettenrads, Guzzi trikes *s*..looking very interesting, trucks from Skoda, Fiat, Opel, Peugeot, Renault, MAN....

Ok...here I start again



War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 8. Juni 1944

Hauptmann Wolzow, leader of Fallschirmersatzbatallion 2, was appointed commander of former Kamfgruppe Wenskat, which was renamed „Kamfgruppe Wolzow“ after its new leader. The battle group absorpted the men of the Ersatzbatallion as replacement for the losses of the last day.

After the experience of yesterday’s battle Regiment and Korps see at the moment no realistic alternative than to defend and to slow down the enemies approach. Kampfgruppe Wolzow has received the task to stop the enemy in this area and especially prevent that the enemy takes Carentan and cuts off the rest of 91. ,243., 709. GrenDiv. and of FJR 6. Reinforcements (17. SS PzGrenDiv “Götz von Berlichingen”) are on the way but will need some days to reach the front. This time must be granted by the battle group.

The battle group sets up a defensive perimeter almost at the start line of yesterday’s attack. With the help of the Pionierkompanie of FJR 6 the position of the battle group was strengthened with some minefields and wire obstacles. Since no explosives were available the bridges over the Elle River were blocked with wire and mines. 2 Pionier platoon remain with the battle group and will function as a reserve.

Also, the ranks of the StuG-battery could be filled with survivors of 2./PzBgd. 100 and all tanks knocked out yesterday could be repaired. Consequently, 2./PzBgd 100 was dissolved.
The frontline will be the east bank of the Elle River, the town “Elleville” and then roughly a line of hedgerows running in South/North direction. The guns of Flak Batterie 112 (88 guns) were set up mainly backwards, concentrated at the Eastern bridge of the Elle river and a bridge over a small creek in the Northeast because any position more forward especially in installations in the town would not allow to retreat the guns. For this reason, fire power in Elleville will be provided by a battery of 105 mm LG (4 tubes) from Fallschirmartillerieregiment 2., which was temporarily subordinated to the battle group to increase its firepower.

The LG platoon of 12. Kompanie with its 2 75mm LG is positioned in the North in an AT role. The StuG battery, together with the Pionier platoons will function as a mobile battalion reserve.
MG platoons of 12. (schwere) Kompanie have been concentrated in Elleville and between the Western and Central Bridge over the Elle to cover suspected approaches of the enemy.

The South-western part of the Elle river bank will be defended by one platoon of 9. Kompanie. Elleville itself will be reinforced by another platoon of 9. Kompanie. The last platoon will take a covering position more eastern to provide a fall-back line or to function as reserve. In similar fashion 10. and 11. Kompanie defend the hedgerows up to the North. Emphasis is laid on defending in depth to be able to move without risking a breakthrough of the enemy and still be able to avoid his deadly naval artillery fire.


_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 17
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/21/2006 6:44:50 PM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 8. Juni 1944

10:00

The Jäger companies established an observation screen about 200-300 m in front of the Main Battle Line composed of „Spähtrupps“ and snipers. The companies defend their areas with two platoons each. The third platoon is positioned backwards as a rear guard and reserve.

The battle group was temporarily reinforced by a Fla-battery equipped with 4 20 mm Quadruple guns, 2 engineer platoons, a 105mm LG battery and, finally, an artillery battalion with 105mm guns for indirect fire support.

10:15
Spotters noticed engine noises and the noises of tracks. The enemy starts his attack.
First contact was made in the South and the centre. Assaults by the spotters against enemy tanks were unsuccessful and caused only own losses. Therefore, the spotters received the order to retreat to the Main Battle Line.
In the centre, enemy forces consisting of APCs and tank destroyers are seen. All units have the strict order to open fire only at close range to safe ammunition and secure kills.

10:30
In the centre a 75mm LG opened fired at about 350 m distance. Immediately, 3 APCs were knocked out. The enemy infantry bailed out and was cut down in the cross fire of our machine guns. However, the enemy localised the LG and put heavy fire on it.

In the South, the enemy probes the wood bridge. After a shoot-out at close range with support of a StuG, 2 tanks were immobilised, a third one was knocked out by the Panzerjäger attached to 9. Kompanie.

In Elleville, 9.Kompanie awaits the enemy in the centre of the town. It was decided not to defend the outskirt because this would allow the enemy to easily put heavy artillery fire on our positions. Defending in the town has the advantage of low visibility. The enemy was, however, surprised by our artillery fire in the town and fire from 105mm LGs and Stugs along the streets. We made the experience that on a distance of more than 400 mm the LG fire is not exact enough to knock out the tanks.

In the North, the enemy attacked the main crossing and suffered heavy losses. Several tanks were destroyed by a 105 mm LG and an 88 Flak Gun. The attack was stopped.

Some hundred metres south, the enemy was able to inflict losses to 10. Kompanie and to penetrate the front line. However, the squad of Sergeant Feller (4./II./10. Kompanie) distinguished himself by knocking out three APCs and 1 Sherman tank with Panzerfaust and close assaults. For his courageous action he will be awarded the Iron Cross First Class. A platoon of StuG II reinforced by an engineer platoon was alarmed to stop the breakthrough. Since the enemy infantry – here assault engineers – were stopped and not able to follow the tanks, the isolated tanks should be easily destroyed.

To be continued..


_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 18
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/27/2006 9:37:30 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 8. Juni 1944

11:30

The enemy attacks at our whole front. In the south, we succesfully destroyed the wooden bridge by an 105 mm artillery barrage. The enemy went further north and attacks especially the southern and northern outskirts of Elville. Here, he concentrated about a tank company. Which this support he managed to deeply penetrate our defensive perimeter in the town. Since the central position here repulsed all infantry attacks with heavy losses for the enemy, the towns is in danger to be encircled.

The enemy achived this success after he concentrated naval artillerx fire and air attacks on two 105 mm LGs and MG squad securing the main roads at the Northeastern corner of the town. Theses units were literally annihilated. However, one Jabo was shotdown by our AA battery. Beside this, several trucks were lost to the straffing attacks. Attacks on our tanks could be avoided by rigid camouflage tactics and avoiding to postion the StuGs in open terrain. This is time consuming but saves our valuable tanks according to the old Jäger theme "sweat saves blood".

Losses of 12. Kompanie are severe because the LGs and its MG squad are the favorised targets of the enemies heavy artillery and airforce.

In the centre a road crosing and a road running in Northsouth direaction were lost to the enemy after heavy fighting, in which the US troops lost several tanks to close assaults and Panzerschreck fire. Corporal van Severen from 10. Kompanie knocked out 3 Sherman tanks with his Panzerschreck. He will be awarded the Iron Cross First Class after the battle.

In the North the enemy also concentrated about a tank company with infantry and succeeded to penetrate the front line. Here, too, his tank losses were severe and about 5 tanks were knocked out in close quarter fighting. One 88 gun was destroyed iin this fight. The enemy has now learned to avoid roads in the North as they are watched by 88 guns which took a high toll from his amoured forces.

Reserves habe been released and a StuG platoon together with an engineer platoon were sent to the town.Two StuG and parts of the second engineer platoon were sent to the North to stop the enemy there. The StuG platoon has already reached Elleville and enagged enemy tanks in the Norteast and Southeast part of the town. Even outnumbered, it is hopened that the enemy assault can be beaten with fire support from StuGs and an 88 gun postioned on the Southern rbank of the Elle river.

To avoid losses by the numerical superior enemy and to maintain a coherent frontline, it was decided to fall back on our second battle line. This tactic seems to be successfull as the spearheads of the following enemy sufffered losses in ambushes when he tried to maintain contact with our retreating Jäger.

The HQ of the battle group was attacked from the air. The command car was destroyed , the HQ suffered losses but Hauptmann Wolzow was only lightly wounded and is still able to lead his troops in this battle.

< Message edited by Zardoz -- 3/27/2006 12:13:40 PM >

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 19
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 3/30/2006 12:28:39 PM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 8. Juni 1944

11:45

After heavy fighting on close distance the assault guns orderd to Elleville succeded in stopping the armoured pincer attack in the north and the south of the town. The success was caused by the superior tactic of a combined infantry-armor attack supported by one 88 gun positioned on the other bank of the Elle river. The enemy lost about 6 tank with no losses in tanks for us. However, since our forces in the town are outnumbered, it was decided to retreat and erect a new defensive line at the eastern outskirt of the town. The decision was also influenced by the assumption that a heavy artillery bombardment of the town by ship based fire is expected as a reaction of the enemy on his defeat here.

In the north the enemies approach could also be stopped. Despite an extrem intensive bombardment by the enemy with naval artillery and several air attacks, our counter attack was successfull and only minor forces should have escaped our . Here, our Jäger were succesfull in close assault against enemy tanks and destroyed several of them. This was possible because our resistance succesfully seperated infantry from armor. The infantry of the enemy, identified as members of 101. US Airborne Division and 4. US Infantry Division are still pinned down at our old front line. OLt. Fabricius, leader of 11. Kompanie, having personally destroyed 2 tanks in close assaults, leads our counter attack here and has organised an simultan attack on the enemy from north and east. The counter attack makes good progress especially because it is supported by own massive artillery fire. His outstanding performance should be awarded with the Iron Cross Second Class beside the 2 badges for single handed tank destruction earned by him.

Nevertheless, we suffered some painful losses. The reserve engineer platoon was badly hit by concentrated naval artillery and suffered considerable losses.Also, an 88 gun and its crew were destoyed in this bombardment. Finally, the leader of our assault gun battery was killed when his vehicle was hit by several rockets fired from about 5 P-47 Jabos after he had survived the naval artillery barrage.

In the centre the situation remains critical. The enemy achieved a serious breakthrough through our lines with an armoured columm of about six tanks. An important road crossing felt into the hands of the enemy. It was only possible to temporarely slow down the approach of the enemy by some retreating Jäger squads of 10. Kompanie. Here, Uffz. Kiesow, leader of 4. Gruppe II. Zug 10. Kompanie, succesfully attacked the enemy and destroyed 3 APC with Panzerfaust and close assaults.

Because of the retreat contact to the enemy is partially lost in the centre. Therefore, the combat group has no longer a comprehensive picture of the activities of the enemy.

The reserve platoon of 10. Kompanie is already alerted and set up an ambush on the assumed march route of the enemy. Furthermore, the main bulk of our assault guns have been send to the centre after fullfilling their task in Elleville. 2 StuG III have already taken position to open fire on the envisaged route of the enemy.


< Message edited by Zardoz -- 3/30/2006 12:34:44 PM >

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 20
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 4/3/2006 10:24:02 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 8. Juni 1944

16.00


III. Platoon of 10. Kompanie and about 4 assault guns attacked the enemies group in the centre, which had achieved a breakthrough. Furthermore, the Stab of 6. Batterie/ArtRgt 191 supported also this counter attack.Despite heavy loses of 10. Kompanie, this force was able to destroy the main bulk of the armor and beat back the enemy infantry supporting this armor.

In the South, 9. Kompanie was able to stop the enemy at the eastern outskirts of Elleville. All enemy attempts to further penetrate were repulsed with heavy losses for tehe enemy.

In the North our counter attack was very successful and succeeded in retaking all lost crossroads.

The enemy forces stop their attack and are now retreating in all areas. Combat action in all areas came to an end. We were able to hold our position despite own heavy losses, especially of 10. and 12. Kompanie.10, Kompanie is nearly wiped out. 12. Kompanie had high losses ij its MG platoons. 9. und 11. kompanie lost about 1/3 of their strength. Losses of the assault gun battery and the 88 battery were very light.

The performanc of 11. Kompanie and the assault gun battery, even the leader of the battery was killed., was outstanding.



Result:

Marginal victory

Losses

Own US

Men 507 886
Artillery 3 -
Soft verhicle 4 -
AFV 2 44

Points 17,410 3,628

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 21
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 4/3/2006 6:40:00 PM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 10. Juni 1944

The Jäger-companies of the battle group were refreshed with the remnants of I/FJR 6 who where able to fight their way out of the pocket near St. Come du Mont and reached Carentan. However, this was not enough to rebuild the battle group after its heavy losses from the battle on the 8. Juni. 10. Kompanie has now about 50 % of its OOB-strength. 9. Kompanie and 10. Kompanie have about 70% to 80 % of their OOB- strength. 12. Kompanie has lost one MG platoon. Other losses of 12.Kompanie were marginal and could be replaced. All other parts of the battle group have full strength.

It was decided to retreat the battle group to Carentan to take an entrenched position north of the Douve river. Here, the engineer company of FJR 6 has recently build some entrechments, tank obstacles and minefields. This decision was made since the remaining troops of 91., 709. and 243. Grenadierdivisions have already reached Carentan and it is thought that the retreat will buy time because the enemy will follow us only slowly after loosing about 2/3 of a tank battalion in yesterday's fight. Finally the nort bank of the Douve will provide relatively well prepared and camouflaged position. This might enable us to better defend Carentan than in a more forward position.

To defend Carentan against the proposed massive US assault the battle group was reinforced with the last 4 75mm PaK guns of 243. Grenadierdivision. Furthermore a battery of 105mm LGs has been detached to the battle group. Additionally, an engineer platoon of 243. GrenDiv will support us as well as 2 captured Sherman tanks and APCs. Finally, the light fieldhowitzer (105mm) battalion of Art. 243 will provide indirect fire support to us.

It is assumed that the enemy will attack in the the next day(s).

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 22
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 4/26/2006 10:59:30 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 11. Juni 1944



The battle group has taken an improved position around Carentan with the task to defend the town and the crossings over Douve and Madeleine.

The bridges in the West and in the East have been blocked with mines and wire. Destruction was not possible because the battle group and FJR 6 have no explosives anymore. The battle group has taken positions as follows:

The Eastern Bridge and the Town La Douane are defended by an engineer platoon of 91. GrenDiv and II./12. Kompanie (MG). For AT defence a PaK platoon of PzJg Btn 191 equipped with 75 mm PaK was added. Furthermore, snipers and reckon elements of the battle-group are entrenched at the Dyke in the North of this bridge as well as in a small forest at the river bank south of the bridge. This will allow crossfire in the flanks and the back of the attacking enemy.

The central part of the front is defended by 9. Kompanie with one platoon in the northern town and a platoon southwest of this town and east of the Dyke. The platoon is reinforced by III./12. Kompanie (75 mm LG) and 2 captured Sherman tanks. The last platoon is positioned southwest of the central town and holds connection with 11. Kompanie which defends the Western bridge. 11. Kompanie is reinforced by 2 105 mm LG and 1 platoon of our 88mm FLAK battery.

The other guns of the FlaK battery are entrenched at vital crossroads around Carentan. In the city, 10. Kompanie has taken position and important crossroads and erected roadblocks with mine fields because it is the weakest company of the battle group. The StuG Battery is hold back as reserve together with 10. Kompanie.

7.30
The enemy has started his attack with heavy artillery fire on many crossroads near Carentan and the river banks. Furthermore, he established a smoke screen at both bridges. Only minimal losses are suffered.

Snipers and spotters at the river banks report strong armour concentrations at the bridges and some assault boats and barges at both sides of the bridges. Additionally, ca. in the middle between the Northern town and the Western bridge the enemy found a ford and crosses the Madeleine River. After a short fire fight, the crossing attempt is stopped with losses for the enemy caused by an 88 gun. One captured Sherman is lost in this fire fight. Spotters report that they hear many detonations. It is assumed that the enemy tries to take the bridges quickly and accepts high losses to achieve this.

Our artillery fire is concentrated on the bridges. Some assault boats and barges were knocked out and sunk.

7:45
Infantry has crossed the Douve in the Southeast corner of our operational area and moves in direction to La Douane. This attack is repulsed with heavy losses for the enemy by II./12 Kompanie. The flat terrain here is a deadly trap for the enemy because the advancing infantrymen are easy targets for MG42 of the MG platoon posititioned here. First tanks of the enemy have crossed the bridges and are approaching in direction to Carentan. This first attack could be beaten off with several tanks destroyed by PaK and FlaK. One PaK malfunctioned and is evacuated.

8:00
The enemy renewed his attack at both bridges. Despite heavy losses he achieved some success in the West. This was caused by heavy air bombardment on our position here. The attacks hit especially our 88 battery and destroyed 2 guns. Enemy infantry has reached the defending 11. Kompanie. One squad is encircled but holds its position. Another squad has to retreat. Both squads suffered heavy losses.

Because the AT defence of 11. Kompanie is seriously crippled and it is assumed that the enemy will achieve a breakthrough here in the next 15 minutes 3/StuGAbt 202 has been released. The tanks will be concentrated in the West to create a locally superior force and destroy the enemy armour here. The encircled platoon is covered with smoke to avoid long-range fire on it.

8:30
The counter attack in the West starts successfully. Some enemy tanks are destroyed. However, operating our tanks is dangerous because the enemy’s air superiority stops every movement in the open. The enemy concentrates his air attacks on our armour. 2 StuG are already destroyed. Every 88 gun is subject to air attacks after 4 shots. We were able to rescue the encircled squad which is down to 3 Jäger.

In the East, the enemy suffered further heavy losses. The position of the AT defence seems to be very favourable because every tank was knocked out with only minor losses for us yet. The resistance nest on the river banks repulsed several enemy attacks with infantry and tanks.

Both bridges are under permanent own artillery fires which stops especially enemy infantry.

9:00
Radio problems stopped our artillery fire in the East. This and heavy air bombardment on our PaK guns allowed enemy troops to cross the river and to further approach. In the West we lost further tanks to enemy air attacks. However, the battle group has the impression that the enemy is stopped here. Therefore, the remaining 4 StuGs are directed to the East.

10. Kompanie has been alarmed and is moved with its bulk to the east to strengthen our defence there. The enemy has infiltrated our frontline in the east. Olt. Koschnick. Leader of Fla Batterie 112 (88 guns) was killed in action. A part of the enemy force now tries to infiltrate La Douane from the Northeast. Strong infantry (at least 2 platoons) have crossed the Douve and moves in direction to Carentan.

9:30
Our counterattack in the East is stopped by fire from enemy tanks and air attacks. Olt. Franzius, leader of 11. Kompanie was killed in this attack in a fight with enemy engineers armed with flame throwers.

In the West, the enemy attack could be stopped with losses on both sides. Now, only two StuG remain operable. However, most crews survived. The resistance nest in the southeast still holds it position despite heavy losses. Here, Uffz. Rittenhaus who together with his MG squad has beaten off several attacks of a far superior enemy was finally killed in action.
11.00

The enemy retreats and evacuates the bridgeheads. The battle group has still to perform some mopping-up actions but it is clear that the enemy has lost the battle with heavy losses for him

Own losses are

Men 255
Artillery 5
Soft vehicle 2
APC 4
AFV 8

Enemy losses

Men 1,296
Artillery 1
Soft vehicle 4
APC 47
AFV 79

Dec. Victory

23,678 points to 3.816 points


< Message edited by Zardoz -- 4/26/2006 11:31:00 AM >

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 23
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 4/26/2006 11:23:45 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 12. Juni 1944

The enemy has crossed the Douve River in the East of Carentan. The defending battlegroup of 275. GrenDiv was pushed back. The enemy then altered the direction of his assault to the South. Therefore FJR 6 and Kampfgruppe Wolzow are threatened with encirclement. As a consquence, the commander of FJR 6, Frh. v. d. Heydte ordered to retreat and to evacuate Carentan. The battle-group has taken a new defensive position southeast of Carentan.

First elements of 17. SS PzGren Div "Götz von Berlichingen" including the divisional headquarter have reached the front . FJR 6 and the battle group have been subordinated to the "Götz von Berlichingen". The commander of the SS Div has accused v. d. Heydte for the retreat and announced to court-martial him. Hptm. Wolzow and Major v. d. Heydte both argued that the thread in the East flank of the force made the retreat mandatory. After intervention of General Meindl, commander of II. Fallschirmkorps the decision of v. d. Heydte was accepted.

However, Brigadeführer Ostendorff, commander of "GvB" ordered an immediate counterattack to retake Carentan. The task was given to the battlegroup. Our plead for armoured reinforcment for this task was neglected. Only two engineer platoons of the SS Div will reinforce the attack and even no artillery support will be available.



_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 24
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 7/14/2006 9:56:17 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow  13. Juni 1944

0.30

The battle group commander called in all officers and ncos to inform them about the ordered counterattack and to give orders for the attack. The morale of the leaders dropped when they were informed that despite two engineer platoons the "Götz von Berlichingen" will not support the attack. Some ncos made comments that the SS wants to fight to the last paratrooper.

Hptm. Wolzow wiped all criticsm away and stated that this order had to be followed. Since the battle-group can not rely on fire-power maximum surprise would be essential. Therefore, the attack will commence without any artillery preparation and the tanks of the StuG battery will be concentrated in the sector of one company. The plan is to penetrate the emey front line punctually and to circumvene resistance nests which should be mopped up later by the "Götz von Berlichingen" when its lead elements will reach the front. The battle group will try to penetrate in depth firstly to reach the bridges at Carentan and secondly to irritate the enemy who will hopefully assumes that a major attack occurs and retreats.

The main burden should be carried by the 9. Kompanie as it is the most experienced company.9. Kompanie will be supported by the StuG battery and an engineer platoon on the south side of the front. 11. Kompanie will attack on the north side, try also to penetrate deeply and to take the small town in the northwest corner of the operational area. 10. Kompanie will be postiioned in the centre and try to take the major crossroads there.

12. Kompanie and the AA battery are kept in reserve and will provide AT defense and defensive power at key points.

Major Wolzow warned that the sky will be clear tomorrow and that , therefore, heavy enemy air activity must be taken into account. He ended his description of the attack plan with the hind that the main task of all leaders should be today to preserve their men and their units as a cohesive fighting instruments. Local territorial gains should be not so important if purchased by irrevisible losses. He wished luck to all and "Gott mit uns"

5:30

All elements of the battle group have reached the starting positions for the counter attack. The attack will begin at 7:00



_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 25
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 7/14/2006 5:52:00 PM   
azraelck

 

Posts: 581
Joined: 1/16/2006
Status: offline 		Out of curiousity, is this a campaign or series of scenarios you've designed, or a long campaign with a historical force? This is very interesting to read, and wrote well enough that I can get a picture of the field. If your building these scenarios yourself, then may I suggest posting them at the Depot. 

_____________________________

"Wait... Holden was a cat. Suddenly it makes sense."

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 26
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 7/17/2006 9:41:03 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		H azraleck,

I started it as a regular campaign and bought my core force as usual. however, I laid emphasis on having a historcal correct force and did not try to get the "best out of my points". The battles have been modified to fit in the historical conduct, i. e I changed the maps and took some delivered with the game showing some bocage country (for the period where I am at the moment). Further more I changed the enemy force so that it makes also more sense from a historical perspective (i. e. less tanks and the beginning for the US, paras for the US , many aircrafts and naval artillery).

Finally, for the reader, I wrote something like a story around it so that the whole campaign is not an addition of not connected scenarios but the envolvement of my (fictious) battle group and it makes more fun to read for you. Please note that some of the incidents I mentioned in the "pre-battle reports" are not fictious, e. g. the problems between SS and the paras (i. e. v. d. Heydtes 6. FJR).

I do not think that the single battles are well outbalanced at the moment. So, I think I would blame me a bit if I post them at the game depot (*s*). However, if somebody is interested, I have the single scenarios saved so you can have a look on them.



_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to azraelck)
Post #: 27
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 7/17/2006 10:10:18 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 13.Juni 1944

During the march to the starting position for the attack, the battle group was subjcet to some confusion in the night. 9. and 11. Kompanie struggled and did not reach the correct positions. Therefore, 11. Kompanie will attack in the south and 9. Kompanie in the north.

7.00
The attack started. more or less immediately after the attack enemy forces were detected in the centre consisting of armoured infantry and armoured cars at an important crossroad.

10. Kompanie made contact with the enemy. After a short firefight the emey infantry retreated. I/10. Kompanie was able to knockout some APCs. MG fire of a MG of 12. Kompanie took a heavy toll from the enemy.

8.00
Contact with the enemy was made in th north and the south. However the crossroad in the north was not defended. In the far north I/9. Kompanie marched forward without meeting any resistance.
In the centre the firefight continued. Several APCs of the enemy were destroyed. One Stug was lost to an ambush by enemy infantry.

8:15
10 Kompanie met heavy resistance in the centre. The enemy had started a counter attack with armoured infantry and harrassed 10. Kompanie with heavy artillery fire. The impression is at the moment that the enemy concentrated his froces in the centre. At his flanks, his resistance is only light until no. This is exactly what was planned with our attack.

9:00
The enemy has supported his counterattacks in the centre with one or two tank companies. 10. Kompanies has been overrun. The enemy then turned to the south. 11. and 10. Kompanie as well as our StuG battery are in danger of encirclement. 10. Kompanie had to defend at close range against an overwhelming number of enemy tanks. Losses of the company are high. The AA battery was released to increase firepower of 10. Kompanie but it is clear that the 88s are not very effecitve in this kind of battle on close range.

9:15
11. Kompanie in th south was subject to extreme heavy artillery fire. Several artilley batteries and mortars targetd the Kompanie. Furthermore, several Jabos attacked the Kompanie and destroyed 2 StuGs.Lossews were severe.

Furthermore, enemy tanks were also detected in the North. Our position there was bolstered with an 88 gun. The whole battle group with the exception of I/9. Kompanie has to defend against a numerical superior enemy who has also much more firepower. The crossroads with the exception of a road in the south were lost to the enemy

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 28
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 7/17/2006 3:10:54 PM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diary                  Kampfgruppe Wolzow                             13. Juni 1944

9:45
The enemy has started a counterattack in the soutern area from two sides, i. e. from the west and the north. The StuG battery has suffered heavy losses and figths outnumbered at close range against US. tanks. It is unable to support the Jäger and fights for its survival. 11. Kompanie will give up its gains and retreat to the east. One platoon was more or less annhiliated, another platoon suffered severe losses. 10. Kompanie in the centre retreats already.

Reserves have been released. A MG platoon of 12. Kompanie together with an 88 gun will cover 11. Kompanie in the south. Other reserves will bolster 10. Kompanie.

I/9. Kompanie attacks an enemey AT position in the town in the northwest. This hopefully will drag some enemy troops from the other frontline. I./9. Kompanie attacked another defensive position of the enemy and destroyed 2 tanks.

10.00
Enemy air attacks knocked out an additional StuG and an 88. The 88 are easily identified after firing and are not very useful in this terrain. Another 88 and a LG were knocked out by enemy fire.
All reserves habe been released. Enemy prssure in the centre and the south is not decreased.Only 2 StuGs remain operable

Hptm. Wolzow decided to break-off the attack. All companies got the order to retreat to their starting psotion and to break contact with the enemy.


Result:

Losses

Own
men                                          373
artillery                                         4
soft vehicle                                   4
APC                                              0
AFV                                              8

US (AI)
men                                           690
artillery                                          3
soft vehicle                                     2
APC                                              22
AFV                                              18


Point
OWN                                      11,560
US                                           5,835
all VP hexes controlled by the AI at the end.

result was a DRAW

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 29
RE: WW II Campaign with a German paratroop batallion - 9/25/2006 10:56:49 AM   
Zardoz

 

Posts: 80
Joined: 2/20/2006
From: Essen (Germany)
Status: offline 		War Diar Kampfgruppe Wolzoz 15. Juni 1944

The battle group was taken out the frontline. It has suffered heavy losses and needs a rest to be refreshed and rearmed.

9. Kompanie has about 80 % of its scheduled strength, 10. Kompanie about 75 %. 11. Kompanie is down to about 35 %. The 12. Kompanie has about 50 %.

The attached battery of StuG Btl. 202 was destroyed and is replaced by 3.Batterie of Fallschirmsturmgeschützbrigade 2. The AA battery has lost about 50 % of it tubes.Only 6./ArtRgt 191 is at full strength.

Motorization dropped to a critical level.

War Diary Kampfgruppe Wolzow 18. Juni 1944

New orders reached the battle group. It will be attached to Panzerlehrdivision in the more North-Eastern combat area. The battle group was ordered to launch an armed reckon task with support of reckon elements (infantry) of PzLehrDiv and 6./PzRgt 130 (8 PzKpfw IV H). If things go well, the battle group should drive the front perimeter further to the North to avoid a connection between the two US beachheads.

The elements of the battle group marched to their new positions in the East in night moves to avoid air raids and made already contact with PzLehrDiv. General Bayerlein was pleased to get this reinforcements. Atmosphere is good as the staff of PzLehrDiv seems to be very professional.

_____________________________

"No other troops in the world but German paratroops could have stood up to such an ordeal and then gone on fighting with such ferocity" — Field Marshal Alexander.

(in reply to Zardoz)
Post #: 30
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