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RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly Pillager)

 
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RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/22/2012 9:23:34 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/17/43

North Pacific: Sigint entry for 2/16 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Onnekotan Jima. Detected status of Onnekotan Jima shows unidentified Jap planes based there, no other visible Japanese forces or activity. Current detected airfield size at Onnekotan Jima is 3(4), port size 1(1).

Construction and expansion of Allied base facilities in the Aleutians is ongoing – a chain of bases now exists as far west as Adak and gradually creeping westward. Plans are underway to develop Adak as a forward base for US submarine operations in sea areas near the Japanese Home Islands, Adak to serve mainly as a replenishment base for refueling and rearming subs operating in the northern Pacific. Current status of base construction at Adak has this base coming on-line sometime in mid-1943. Other Allied bases in the Aleutians under expansion include Dutch Harbor and Umnak Is.

Base construction to expand both port and airfield facilities at Kodiak Is to maximum size is already completed – this expansion done more to create unlimited fuel and supply point storage capacity on Kodiak rather than any intent to actually use its airfield and port on a large scale (though these facilities are handy when needed). Short-term plans are to utilize Kodiak Island as a forward supply and fuel “dump” for the North Pacific (Aleutians) theatre area – this use of Kodiak allowing movement of fuel and supply to Aleutian bases using local shipping (from Kodiak) rather than transporting supply and fuel to Aleutian island bases directly from the West Coast. Utilization of Kodiak as a supply/fuel depot has proved helpful in allowing a forward build-up of fuel and supply stockpiles in the North Pacific theatre while construction to expand other bases has been underway.


Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 2/16 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Tarawa. Detected status of Tarawa shows unidentified Jap planes based there, no other visible Japanese forces or activity. Current detected airfield size at Tarawa is 3(2), port size 3(1) – Pillager definitely expanding Tarawa into a significant Japanese base facility. Available intelligence data has three Jap LCU located on Tarawa – 5 JAAF AF Bn, 53 Naval Gd, 6 Naval Construction Bn.


South Pacific: Plans are underway to transfer support of some US long-range sub patrol operations from Pearl Harbor to selected bases in the South Pacific theatre area. Only US S-class sub patrols are currently based in the South Pacific – these subs mainly operating from Auckland and Suva (Suva only as a refueling port) in patrol areas to the N, NW and W of Fiji. A small number of US and Dutch subs operate from Australia – these subs in patrol areas near Rabaul and the Coral Sea area.

Support of long-range sub patrol operations from the South Pacific theatre will initially be used with fleet subs now operating in patrol areas north of the Solomons and around Truk, this likely to be expanded to include sub patrol ops in additional Japanese-controlled sea areas as more sub bases in the South Pacific become operational.

US fleet subs now operating in these patrol areas will be assigned home ports in the South Pacific area rather than Pearl Harbor. Permanent transfer of several AS plus a number of US fleet subs to the South Pacific is in preparation. At this time Auckland is fully capable of supporting submarine patrol operations, several other South Pacific bases (including Suva, Pago Pago, Tahiti, Tongatapu) are also capable of supporting sub operations once sufficient supply, fuel, base force LCU and AS ships are in place.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/16 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 8 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 15 Japanese ships anchored in port (+3 from last report), 2 Jap TF in harbor, 74 aircraft (40 fighters, 34 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s. Japanese ships shown at anchor in Rangoon include patrol ships (PT, PC, PB) and minesweepers (AM).


China: Japanese bombardment attack at Chungking continues. Latest AAR follows.

3 detected Japanese LCU in hexes adjacent to Chungking.

** below indicates Japanese LCU reinforcements arriving this game turn. (no new arrivals)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chungking (76,45)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 261946 troops, 2539 guns, 1316 vehicles, Assault Value = 8957
Defending force 571317 troops, 3352 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 20154

Allied ground losses:
94 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 9 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 2 (1 destroyed, 1 disabled)

Assaulting units:
39th Division
7th Ind.Mixed Brigade
4th Ind.Mixed Brigade
1st Ind.Mixed Brigade
15th Division
59th Infantry Brigade
58th Division
22nd Division
26th Division
37th Division
17th Division
9th Ind.Mixed Brigade
116th Division
110th Division
34th Division
41st Division
32nd Division
36th Division
35th Division
3rd Tank Division
70th Division
104th Division
8th Armored Car Co
40th Division
13th Division
38th Division
21st Mortar Battalion
12th Army
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
2nd Mortar Battalion
11th Army
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
23rd Army
1st Mortar Battalion
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
North China Area Army
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
70th Chinese Corps
16th Chinese Corps
46th Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
89th Chinese Corps
115th Red Chinese Division
1st Chinese Cavalry Corps
47th Chinese Corps
23rd Chinese Corps
69th Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
40th Chinese Corps
42nd Chinese Corps
56th Chinese Corps
35th Chinese Corps
92nd Chinese Corps
83rd Chinese Corps
61st Chinese Corps
60th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
76th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
36th Chinese Corps
72nd Chinese Corps
12th Chinese Corps
30th Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Cavalry Corps
38th Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Corps
5th Chinese Cavalry Corps
94th Chinese Corps
78th Chinese Corps
9th Chinese Corps
11th Chinese Corps
51st Chinese Corps
59th Chinese Corps
48th Chinese Corps
3rd Prov Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
99th Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Cavalry Corps
13th Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
1st New Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Cavalry Corps
7th Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
18th Chinese Corps
96th Chinese Corps
90th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
17th Chinese Corps
55th Chinese Corps
87th Chinese Corps
58th Chinese Corps
37th Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Corps
19th Chinese Corps
20th Chinese Corps
14th Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps
22nd Chinese Corps
259th Brigade
39th Chinese Corps
7th New Chinese Corps
120th Red Chinese Division
65th Chinese Corps
26th Chinese Corps
34th Chinese Corps
27th Chinese Corps
63rd Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
9th Prov Chinese Corps
31st Chinese Corps
33rd Chinese Corps
81st Chinese Corps
74th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
50th Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
91st Chinese Corps
21st Chinese Corps
41st Chinese Corps
57th Chinese Corps
85th Chinese Corps
15th Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
129th Red Chinese Division
77th Chinese Corps
97th Chinese Corps
10th Chinese Corps
25th Chinese Corps
53rd Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
5th New Chinese Corps
84th Chinese Corps
17th Construction Regiment
4th Chinese Base Force
14th Group Army
9th War Area
35th Group Army
34th Group Army
15th Chinese Base Force
CAF HQ
7th Chinese Base Force
Central Reserve
Jingcha War Area
7th Group Army
2nd Group Army
3rd Construction Regiment
16th Chinese Base Force
12th Construction Regiment
39th Group Army
1st Artillery Regiment
15th Group Army
5th Group Army
3rd Group Army
11th Chinese Base Force
11th Group Army
6th War Area
11th Construction Regiment
16th Construction Regiment
Lusu War Area
7th Construction Regiment
23rd Group Army
41st AA Regiment
7th War Area
32nd Group Army
14th Construction Regiment
29th Group Army
6th Construction Regiment
1st Chinese Base Force
4th Group Army
30th Group Army
98th Chinese Corps
9th Group Army
18th Chinese Base Force
57th AT Gun Regiment
5th War Area
21st Group Army
5th Construction Regiment
4th War Area
6th Chinese Base Force
20th Group Army
10th Chinese Base Force
36th Group Army
20th Chinese Base Force
26th Group Army
37th Group Army
19th Group Army
18th Group Army
1st War Area
38th Group Army
13th Group Army
9th Chinese Base Force
17th Group Army
31st Group Army
13th Chinese Base Force
18th Artillery Regiment
10th Construction Regiment
16th Group Army
2nd Chinese Base Force
2nd War Area
43rd Chinese Corps
20th Artillery Regiment
33rd Group Army
6th Group Army
7th Artillery Regiment
2nd Prov Chinese Corps
12th Group Army
25th Group Army
Red Chinese Army
China Command
13th Construction Regiment
1st Construction Regiment
3rd War Area
8th Construction Regiment
3rd Heavy Mortar Regiment
17th Chinese Base Force
22nd Group Army
4th Heavy Mortar Regiment
27th Group Army
1st Group Army
24th Group Army
8th Group Army
49th AA Regiment
56th AT Gun Regiment

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 751
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/24/2012 12:17:08 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/18/43

Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 2/17 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Majuro and Mili. Detected status of Majuro shows unidentified Jap LCU(s), otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity at either Majuro or Mili. No visible evidence of base construction activity observed.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/17 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: 8 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


DEI: Japanese amphibious landing underway at Sorong in a mop-up operation. 72 JAAF AF Bn now landing at Sorong is a new addition to the known Japanese OOB. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Sorong (82,107)

TF 380 troops unloading over beach at Sorong, 82,107

Japanese ground losses:
10 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 17 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

10 Support troops lost overboard during unload of 72nd JAAF AF Bn /2
8 Aviation Support troops lost in surf during unload of 72nd JAAF AF Bn /2

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Dutch sub patrol engaged with Jap surface ASW near southern exit of Sunda Straits. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Oosthaven at 46,97 (S of Oosthaven)

Japanese Ships
PB Choyo Maru #2
SC Ch 8

Allied Ships
SS KXVIII

SS KXVIII launches 2 torpedoes at PB Choyo Maru #2
PB Choyo Maru #2 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 15 Japanese ships anchored in port, 1 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 69 aircraft (38 fighters, 31 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese launch ground assault on Chungking. As there is a number of Chinese LCU in Chungking at very low strength, it was not surprising that seven Chinese LCU were eliminated in this action. AAR follows.

3 detected Japanese LCU in hexes adjacent to Chungking.

** below indicates Japanese LCU reinforcements arriving this game turn.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chungking (76,45)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 243472 troops, 2358 guns, 1283 vehicles, Assault Value = 9196
Defending force 571232 troops, 3345 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 20154
Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 4
Japanese adjusted assault: 2195
Allied adjusted defense: 20949
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 9 (fort level 4)

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), forts(+), leaders(+), experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker: disruption(-)

Japanese ground losses:
7744 casualties reported
Squads: 34 destroyed, 1810 disabled
Non Combat: 10 destroyed, 131 disabled
Engineers: 2 destroyed, 119 disabled
Guns lost 173 (4 destroyed, 169 disabled)
Vehicles lost 70 (2 destroyed, 68 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
11326 casualties reported
Squads: 177 destroyed, 2126 disabled
Non Combat: 107 destroyed, 943 disabled
Engineers: 26 destroyed, 156 disabled
Guns lost 467 (62 destroyed, 405 disabled)
Units destroyed 7

Assaulting units:
37th Division
36th Division
32nd Division
3rd Tank Division
9th Ind.Mixed Brigade
8th Armored Car Co
58th Division
70th Division
34th Division
35th Division
39th Division
41st Division
15th Division
116th Division
4th Ind.Mixed Brigade
59th Infantry Brigade
40th Division
13th Division
17th Division
104th Division
23rd Ind.Mixed Brigade **
1st Ind.Mixed Brigade
22nd Division
110th Division
7th Ind.Mixed Brigade
26th Division
38th Division
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
1st Mortar Battalion
2nd Mortar Battalion
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
23rd Army
21st Mortar Battalion
12th Army
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
11th Army
North China Area Army
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
59th Chinese Corps
83rd Chinese Corps
63rd Chinese Corps
5th New Chinese Corps
92nd Chinese Corps
53rd Chinese Corps
38th Chinese Corps
35th Chinese Corps
10th Chinese Corps
78th Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
91st Chinese Corps
33rd Chinese Corps
1st New Chinese Corps
22nd Chinese Corps
97th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps
60th Chinese Corps
50th Chinese Corps
30th Chinese Corps
81st Chinese Corps
56th Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
41st Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Cavalry Corps
74th Chinese Corps
26th Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
15th Chinese Corps
84th Chinese Corps
47th Chinese Corps
5th Chinese Cavalry Corps
115th Red Chinese Division
51st Chinese Corps
57th Chinese Corps
3rd Prov Chinese Corps
76th Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Corps
40th Chinese Corps
94th Chinese Corps
16th Chinese Corps
13th Chinese Corps
23rd Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Cavalry Corps
70th Chinese Corps
11th Chinese Corps
48th Chinese Corps
90th Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps
129th Red Chinese Division
87th Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Cavalry Corps
72nd Chinese Corps
9th Prov Chinese Corps
96th Chinese Corps
61st Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
77th Chinese Corps
7th New Chinese Corps
55th Chinese Corps
46th Chinese Corps
19th Chinese Corps
58th Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Cavalry Corps
69th Chinese Corps
259th Brigade
45th Chinese Corps
89th Chinese Corps
36th Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
20th Chinese Corps
42nd Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
9th Chinese Corps
7th Chinese Corps
37th Chinese Corps
99th Chinese Corps
14th Chinese Corps
18th Chinese Corps
12th Chinese Corps
120th Red Chinese Division
32nd Chinese Corps
39th Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
34th Chinese Corps
17th Chinese Corps
65th Chinese Corps
85th Chinese Corps
31st Chinese Corps
21st Chinese Corps
27th Chinese Corps
25th Chinese Corps
17th Construction Regiment
9th War Area
3rd Group Army
18th Chinese Base Force
7th Construction Regiment
3rd Heavy Mortar Regiment
15th Group Army
38th Group Army
12th Group Army
30th Group Army
21st Group Army
49th AA Regiment
24th Group Army
43rd Chinese Corps
1st Artillery Regiment
7th War Area
7th Group Army
33rd Group Army
16th Chinese Base Force
3rd War Area
China Command
9th Chinese Base Force
39th Group Army
2nd Prov Chinese Corps
57th AT Gun Regiment
15th Chinese Base Force
20th Artillery Regiment
7th Artillery Regiment
10th Construction Regiment
14th Construction Regiment
18th Artillery Regiment
8th Group Army
7th Chinese Base Force
1st Construction Regiment
10th Chinese Base Force
4th War Area
23rd Group Army
6th Chinese Base Force
26th Group Army
11th Group Army
18th Group Army
Central Reserve
13th Chinese Base Force
36th Group Army
34th Group Army
6th Construction Regiment
2nd Chinese Base Force
4th Chinese Base Force
27th Group Army
13th Group Army
11th Chinese Base Force
12th Construction Regiment
37th Group Army
CAF HQ
19th Group Army
4th Group Army
98th Chinese Corps
32nd Group Army
Red Chinese Army
14th Group Army
4th Heavy Mortar Regiment
1st War Area
Jingcha War Area
9th Group Army
1st Chinese Base Force
20th Chinese Base Force
35th Group Army
16th Group Army
13th Construction Regiment
6th War Area
1st Group Army
11th Construction Regiment
29th Group Army
6th Group Army
3rd Construction Regiment
17th Group Army
2nd Group Army
17th Chinese Base Force
8th Construction Regiment
31st Group Army
Lusu War Area
5th Construction Regiment
5th War Area
2nd War Area
5th Group Army
16th Construction Regiment
25th Group Army
41st AA Regiment
20th Group Army
22nd Group Army
56th AT Gun Regiment

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 752
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/25/2012 3:28:22 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/19/43

Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 2/18 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Maleolap. Detected status of Maleolap shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Sigint entry for 2/18 reports heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Rabaul. Detected status of Rabaul shows unidentified Japanese aircraft based there, also ship(s) anchored in port. Current detected airfield size at Rabaul is 4(6), port size 4(4). Available intelligence data has four Jap LCU’s known to be located at Rabaul – these include HQ 8th Fleet, 5 & 10 Shipping Engineer Rgts, Yokosuka 5 SNLF.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/18 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 6 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


DEI: Sorong occupied automatically this game turn by Japanese landing force (72 JAAF AF Bn) without any reported combat (no AAR). Sorong was not occupied by any Allied LCU.


Southeast Asia: Sigint entries for 2/18 report Jap 1 Independent Heavy Artillery Bn and 1 Mobile Infantry Rgt have transferred from Kwantung Army (Manchuria) into the Southeast Asia theatre area. Reported current location of 1 Ind Heavy Artillery Bn is Singapore, 1 Mobile Infantry Rgt at hex location 52, 65 (moving along rail line in southern Thailand). Possibility has to be considered that Pillager could be gathering sub-units of Jap 1st Tank Division either in Burma or within the Southeast Asia theatre area with the intent of forming the divisional LCU of 1 Tank Division.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 15 Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 70 aircraft (40 fighters, 30 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese resume ground bombardment at Chungking. AAR follows.

3 detected Japanese LCU in hexes adjacent to Chungking.

** below indicates Japanese LCU reinforcements arriving this game turn. (no new arrivals)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chungking (76,45)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 221494 troops, 2301 guns, 1251 vehicles, Assault Value = 7720
Defending force 549666 troops, 3288 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 18080

Allied ground losses:
81 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 10 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
41st Division
3rd Tank Division
116th Division
58th Division
34th Division
7th Ind.Mixed Brigade
35th Division
104th Division
36th Division
1st Ind.Mixed Brigade
4th Ind.Mixed Brigade
110th Division
22nd Division
23rd Ind.Mixed Brigade
26th Division
32nd Division
70th Division
8th Armored Car Co
37th Division
59th Infantry Brigade
39th Division
17th Division
9th Ind.Mixed Brigade
40th Division
15th Division
13th Division
38th Division
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
23rd Army
North China Area Army
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
1st Mortar Battalion
2nd Mortar Battalion
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
11th Army
21st Mortar Battalion
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
12th Army
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
26th Chinese Corps
36th Chinese Corps
9th Chinese Corps
20th Chinese Corps
81st Chinese Corps
61st Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
78th Chinese Corps
85th Chinese Corps
35th Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
70th Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
46th Chinese Corps
21st Chinese Corps
22nd Chinese Corps
129th Red Chinese Division
1st New Chinese Corps
84th Chinese Corps
19th Chinese Corps
76th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
31st Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
55th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
13th Chinese Corps
42nd Chinese Corps
77th Chinese Corps
14th Chinese Corps
3rd Prov Chinese Corps
97th Chinese Corps
115th Red Chinese Division
38th Chinese Corps
56th Chinese Corps
65th Chinese Corps
5th New Chinese Corps
18th Chinese Corps
11th Chinese Corps
27th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
89th Chinese Corps
30th Chinese Corps
5th Chinese Cavalry Corps
1st Chinese Cavalry Corps
69th Chinese Corps
17th Chinese Corps
120th Red Chinese Division
23rd Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
57th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Cavalry Corps
9th Prov Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Corps
91st Chinese Corps
87th Chinese Corps
74th Chinese Corps
59th Chinese Corps
41st Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
39th Chinese Corps
51st Chinese Corps
94th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
96th Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
53rd Chinese Corps
37th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps
47th Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
25th Chinese Corps
63rd Chinese Corps
99th Chinese Corps
90th Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
7th New Chinese Corps
16th Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Cavalry Corps
60th Chinese Corps
50th Chinese Corps
10th Chinese Corps
12th Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
92nd Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps
7th Chinese Corps
72nd Chinese Corps
48th Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Corps
2nd Construction Regiment
3rd War Area
14th Construction Regiment
31st Group Army
7th Group Army
2nd War Area
Red Chinese Army
18th Group Army
8th Group Army
Central Reserve
2nd Chinese Base Force
3rd Construction Regiment
1st War Area
4th Heavy Mortar Regiment
23rd Group Army
33rd Group Army
CAF HQ
8th Construction Regiment
9th War Area
7th Construction Regiment
21st Group Army
7th Chinese Base Force
2nd Group Army
13th Chinese Base Force
Lusu War Area
7th Artillery Regiment
20th Chinese Base Force
6th Chinese Base Force
57th AT Gun Regiment
36th Group Army
4th Group Army
5th War Area
11th Chinese Base Force
49th AA Regiment
3rd Group Army
3rd Heavy Mortar Regiment
6th Construction Regiment
4th Chinese Base Force
15th Group Army
20th Artillery Regiment
22nd Group Army
12th Construction Regiment
12th Group Army
37th Group Army
32nd Group Army
7th War Area
11th Group Army
18th Chinese Base Force
5th Construction Regiment
39th Group Army
10th Chinese Base Force
20th Group Army
83rd Chinese Corps
10th Construction Regiment
38th Group Army
3rd Chinese Cavalry Corps
9th Group Army
26th Group Army
16th Construction Regiment
Jingcha War Area
29th Group Army
40th Chinese Corps
China Command
34th Group Army
259th Brigade
27th Group Army
9th Chinese Base Force
6th War Area
1st Artillery Regiment
1st Group Army
34th Chinese Corps
24th Group Army
11th Construction Regiment
14th Group Army
13th Construction Regiment
4th War Area
58th Chinese Corps
15th Chinese Base Force
19th Group Army
16th Chinese Base Force
13th Group Army
1st Chinese Base Force
1st Construction Regiment
6th Group Army
17th Construction Regiment
41st AA Regiment
17th Chinese Base Force
98th Chinese Corps
25th Group Army
17th Group Army
5th Group Army
43rd Chinese Corps
56th AT Gun Regiment

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 753
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/26/2012 12:24:58 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/20/43

Japanese Home Islands: A small group of US fleet subs is now operating in patrol areas to the W and SW of Kyushu – this mission intended to identify the extent of Japanese transport shipping in this area and attack targets of opportunity. The mission may also have the added effect of requiring Pillager to deploy Japanese ASW forces to cover this area, spreading them out a little thinner. Two of the three US subs sent into this area immediately found targets. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Tokara Retto at 99,62 (NE of Amami Oshima)

Japanese Ships (two ships in small transport TF, reported moving W)
xAKL Nichirin Maru, Shell hits 4, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage

Allied Ships
SS Herring, hits 2 (system damage 3, sub remaining on patrol)

xAKL Nichirin Maru is sighted by SS Herring
SS Herring attacking on the surface
Johnson, R.W. decides to submerge SS Herring due to damage

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Fukue-jima at 100,57 (NW of Nagasaki/Sasebo)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Ina Maru

Allied Ships
SS Silversides

xAKL Ina Maru is sighted by SS Silversides
SS Silversides launches 2 torpedoes at xAKL Ina Maru

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 2/19 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Baker Is and Roi-Namur. Detected status of both Roi-Namur and Baker Is show unidentified Jap planes at each base, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity.

US minesweeper patrol at Christmas Is reporting contact with unidentified Jap aircraft.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/19 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


DEI: All quiet... but not for long.


Straits of Malacca: US sub patrol reports attacks by Ki-49 Helen and Ki-30 Ann air patrols NW of Georgetown. No hits or damage.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 15 Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 74 aircraft (46 fighters, 28 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese ground bombardment at Chungking continues. AAR follows.

3 detected Japanese LCU in hexes adjacent to Chungking.

** below indicates Japanese LCU reinforcements arriving this game turn. (no new arrivals)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chungking (76,45)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 3315 troops, 298 guns, 103 vehicles, Assault Value = 7893
Defending force 550629 troops, 3277 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 18145

Allied ground losses:
114 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 19 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 1 (1 destroyed, 0 disabled)

Assaulting units:
4th Ind.Mixed Brigade
39th Division
23rd Ind.Mixed Brigade
15th Division
17th Division
26th Division
8th Armored Car Co
1st Ind.Mixed Brigade
3rd Tank Division
32nd Division
35th Division
104th Division
36th Division
41st Division
37th Division
70th Division
59th Infantry Brigade
110th Division
22nd Division
34th Division
58th Division
40th Division
9th Ind.Mixed Brigade
116th Division
13th Division
7th Ind.Mixed Brigade
38th Division
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
1st Mortar Battalion
21st Mortar Battalion
12th Army
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
23rd Army
North China Area Army
2nd Mortar Battalion
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
11th Army
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
91st Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
9th Chinese Corps
81st Chinese Corps
60th Chinese Corps
65th Chinese Corps
22nd Chinese Corps
56th Chinese Corps
78th Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Corps
77th Chinese Corps
17th Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
69th Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
7th New Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Cavalry Corps
46th Chinese Corps
120th Red Chinese Division
39th Chinese Corps
23rd Chinese Corps
7th Chinese Corps
63rd Chinese Corps
41st Chinese Corps
9th Prov Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Cavalry Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
92nd Chinese Corps
20th Chinese Corps
72nd Chinese Corps
14th Chinese Corps
57th Chinese Corps
59th Chinese Corps
38th Chinese Corps
9th Separate Brigade
32nd Chinese Corps
18th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
26th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
31st Chinese Corps
115th Red Chinese Division
87th Chinese Corps
94th Chinese Corps
1st New Chinese Corps
70th Chinese Corps
51st Chinese Corps
129th Red Chinese Division
16th Chinese Corps
47th Chinese Corps
85th Chinese Corps
76th Chinese Corps
89th Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Corps
13th Chinese Corps
21st Chinese Corps
12th Chinese Corps
61st Chinese Corps
30th Chinese Corps
5th Chinese Cavalry Corps
3rd Prov Chinese Corps
37th Chinese Corps
96th Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Corps
36th Chinese Corps
42nd Chinese Corps
48th Chinese Corps
97th Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
19th Chinese Corps
35th Chinese Corps
55th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps
27th Chinese Corps
11th Chinese Corps
5th New Chinese Corps
50th Chinese Corps
53rd Chinese Corps
90th Chinese Corps
74th Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
25th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Cavalry Corps
99th Chinese Corps
10th Chinese Corps
84th Chinese Corps
2nd Construction Regiment
25th Group Army
11th Chinese Base Force
16th Construction Regiment
41st AA Regiment
8th Group Army
5th Construction Regiment
13th Construction Regiment
36th Group Army
18th Group Army
6th War Area
6th Group Army
16th Chinese Base Force
1st Chinese Base Force
43rd Chinese Corps
3rd Group Army
1st Group Army
7th Artillery Regiment
10th Construction Regiment
9th War Area
20th Chinese Base Force
57th AT Gun Regiment
32nd Group Army
1st Construction Regiment
1st Artillery Regiment
21st Group Army
3rd Construction Regiment
Jingcha War Area
1st War Area
10th Chinese Base Force
17th Chinese Base Force
12th Group Army
49th AA Regiment
23rd Group Army
3rd War Area
7th Group Army
5th Group Army
11th Group Army
7th Chinese Base Force
98th Chinese Corps
38th Group Army
13th Group Army
2nd Chinese Base Force
3rd Chinese Cavalry Corps
20th Group Army
7th Construction Regiment
15th Chinese Base Force
17th Group Army
6th Chinese Base Force
5th War Area
31st Group Army
34th Group Army
CAF HQ
3rd Heavy Mortar Regiment
40th Chinese Corps
8th Construction Regiment
6th Construction Regiment
7th War Area
Lusu War Area
34th Chinese Corps
15th Group Army
2nd War Area
26th Group Army
33rd Group Army
9th Group Army
14th Group Army
29th Group Army
24th Group Army
4th Heavy Mortar Regiment
83rd Chinese Corps
2nd Group Army
4th Chinese Base Force
39th Group Army
259th Brigade
27th Group Army
18th Chinese Base Force
12th Construction Regiment
4th War Area
11th Construction Regiment
Red Chinese Army
58th Chinese Corps
9th Chinese Base Force
22nd Group Army
37th Group Army
17th Construction Regiment
China Command
Central Reserve
13th Chinese Base Force
19th Group Army
20th Artillery Regiment
14th Construction Regiment
4th Group Army
56th AT Gun Regiment

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 754
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/27/2012 3:12:05 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/21/43

Japanese Home Islands: US sub patrol near the Tsushima Straits intercepts a Jap transport TF in two night actions. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Masan at 101,55 (NW of Nagasaki/Sasebo)

Japanese Ships
xAK Gozan Maru, Shell hits 2, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage (sunk)

Allied Ships
SS Silversides

xAK Gozan Maru is sighted by SS Silversides
SS Silversides attacking xAK Gozan Maru on the surface

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Masan at 101,55

Japanese Ships
xAK Kuraido Maru, Shell hits 2, Torpedo hits 2, heavy fires, heavy damage (sunk)

Allied Ships
SS Silversides

xAK Kuraido Maru is sighted by SS Silversides
SS Silversides attacking xAK Kuraido Maru on the surface

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


US fleet sub Gar hit and damaged (system damage 29, float 19, engine 1) in attack by Ki-48 Lily air patrol north of Batan Is. SS Gar is now returning to base for repair at 8 kts speed.


Eastern Pacific: Jap submarine encounters transport convoy WP-44 off San Francisco, sub engaged by convoy’s ASW escort. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near San Francisco at 213,74 (WSW of San Francisco)

Japanese Ships
SS I-2

Allied Ships
DD Strong
DMS Lamberton
xAP President Buchanan
xAP President Fillmore
xAK Talune
xAK Juan de Fuca
DD Carmick

SS I-2 launches 2 torpedoes at DD Strong
I-2 diving deep ....
DD Carmick fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/20 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: xAK Senko Maru reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 6 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: 12 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown


DEI: US main carrier force strikes Palembang. AAR follows.

The initial strike was launched against port facilities in Palembang. My first choice of target in Palembang had been to begin with the oil production – however, I was unable to select City Attack mission for my VS and VT squadrons during the orders phase going into this game turn. As I see it, the probable reason for being unable to select City Attack was that the US carrier TF’s were still 18-20 hexes out from Palembang prior to start of this game turn, the final approach to Palembang by the carrier TF’s done at full movement speed during the night and day naval movement phases of this turn.

It appears the AE game mechanics only allow issuing orders for City Attack to an air unit when the target base for the City Attack air strike is within range of the air unit’s planes at the time orders to launch the air strike are being issued, this particular feature of the game mechanics not allowing for movement of carriers between the time air strike orders are issued and the time the air strikes are actually launched. As my carriers were still 18-20 hexes out when I was issuing strike orders to my VS/VT squadrons, City Attack was not one of my available attack mission options. (Not to be a rules lawyer or anything, but one does occasionally have to read between the lines)

Given all that… my best available attack target option (besides nothing) was launching a Port Attack strike – my third choice initially after oil and refineries. Why a Port attack? Not only is Pillager producing and refining oil in Palembang, he also has to load it on ships in Palembang. Damage to the port facilities reduces Pillager’s ability to load and move oil and fuel stockpiles out of Palembang. Plus the modest amount of stockpiled fuel and supply destroyed by fuel and supply hits on the port. As stated before… not my first target choice, but hitting port facilities accomplishes something within the context of the overall mission.

The overall objective of this carrier mission is inflicting maximum damage on oil and fuel production in Palembang, also Pillager’s ability to load and ship fuel out of Palembang. Destroying Japanese planes, sinking ships, killing LCU elements is secondary and actually regarded as a distraction within the goals of this mission. The mission is not expected to be a one-shot crippling of the Japanese war effort, only create a significant amount of inconvenience (and as much of that as possible).

Detected status of Palembang base shows port damage 60, six Jap TF (none appear to be a significant problem or threat), 78 aircraft (42 fighters, 26 bombers), 5 LCU. Current port size in Palembang is 4(1), airfield size 4(4).

I’m anticipating Pillager will attempt to reinforce Palembang with available Jap air units within transfer range, making a counter air-strike against the carriers a distinct possibility. While Pillager has found the US carriers, weather conditions (overcast for this map area) could prove to be helpful from my perspective. Though I’m not expecting any immediate intervention by Japanese naval forces, Allied sub patrols are positioned at the southern exit of the Sunda Straits (between Sumatra & Java) as well as off the eastern end of Java to pick up Japanese ships entering the Indian Ocean from the Java Sea.

A Sigint entry for 2/21 reports heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Singapore. My estimate is that this report coincides with where Pillager has stationed any if not most Japanese naval forces in this region – a sortie by Jap naval TF’s from Singapore anticipated to pass through the Straits of Malacca. A US patrol submarine is moving southward into the Malacca Straits to pick up Japanese ship movements from this direction.

Orders were issued for the US carrier force to remain off Sumatra and launch a second wave strike on Palembang – this attack targeted entirely on oil production. A third wave strike on Palembang is being evaluated, whether or not this is done depends on the known tactical situation following the 2/22 game turn. My current view of progress in this operation being the potential damage to “fueling” the Japanese war effort overrides a moderate level of risk for Japanese counterattack.

Defensive measures for the US carrier force is “as good as it gets” – there is 70% CAP operating from all CV’s. CV’s are dispersed in one CV Air Combat TF’s, each TF with a full 15-ship complement and total AA of 5700-5900 in each task force.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Palembang, at 48,91

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 40 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes

Allied aircraft
F4F-3 Wildcat x 7
F4F-4 Wildcat x 51
SBD-3 Dauntless x 208
TBF-1 Avenger x 105

Allied aircraft losses (practically no losses, virtually all carrier strike planes are still operational)
SBD-3 Dauntless: 5 damaged
TBF-1 Avenger: 5 damaged

Japanese ground losses:
29 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Port hits 28
Port fuel hits 5
Port supply hits 3

Aircraft Attacking:
21 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
18 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
13 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
18 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
18 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
7 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
18 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
15 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
18 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
2 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
15 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
16 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
14 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
12 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
16 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
12 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
9 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
28 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
1 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
10 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
14 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
6 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
Port Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other entries pertaining to this raid from the 2/20 Operations report follow.

SBD-3 Dauntless from VB-2 is written off
Damaged SBD-3 Dauntless from VB-3 is missing, pilot reported killed
SBD-3 Dauntless from VB-3 is damaged on landing
Damaged TBF-1 Avenger from VT-71 shot down on way home, pilot reported killed


Southeast Asia: Sigint entry for 2/20 reports Jap 1 Mobile Engineer Rgt now located at Hanoi, this LCU previously attached to the Kwantung Army.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 15 Japanese ships anchored in port, no Jap TF in harbor (-2 from last report), 57 aircraft (34 fighters, 23 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese ground bombardment at Chungking continues. Latest AAR follows.

3 detected Japanese LCU in hexes adjacent to Chungking.

** below indicates Japanese LCU reinforcements arriving this game turn. (no new arrivals)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chungking (76,45)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 3315 troops, 298 guns, 103 vehicles, Assault Value = 8065
Defending force 551116 troops, 3267 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 18185

Allied ground losses:
83 casualties reported
Squads: 4 destroyed, 5 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
37th Division
32nd Division
8th Armored Car Co
116th Division
1st Ind.Mixed Brigade
40th Division
23rd Ind.Mixed Brigade
41st Division
34th Division
9th Ind.Mixed Brigade
36th Division
4th Ind.Mixed Brigade
26th Division
3rd Tank Division
15th Division
13th Division
104th Division
59th Infantry Brigade
17th Division
7th Ind.Mixed Brigade
22nd Division
110th Division
70th Division
58th Division
35th Division
39th Division
38th Division
2nd Mortar Battalion
21st Mortar Battalion
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
23rd Army
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
12th Army
11th Army
North China Area Army
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
1st Mortar Battalion
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
74th Chinese Corps
61st Chinese Corps
38th Chinese Corps
65th Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
129th Red Chinese Division
55th Chinese Corps
13th Chinese Corps
120th Red Chinese Division
3rd Chinese Cavalry Corps
96th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
69th Chinese Corps
18th Chinese Corps
17th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Cavalry Corps
75th Chinese Corps
53rd Chinese Corps
22nd Chinese Corps
72nd Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps
97th Chinese Corps
91st Chinese Corps
85th Chinese Corps
11th Chinese Corps
41st Chinese Corps
99th Chinese Corps
76th Chinese Corps
20th Chinese Corps
89th Chinese Corps
9th Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
90th Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
31st Chinese Corps
23rd Chinese Corps
21st Chinese Corps
1st New Chinese Corps
27th Chinese Corps
59th Chinese Corps
36th Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
50th Chinese Corps
19th Chinese Corps
39th Chinese Corps
70th Chinese Corps
26th Chinese Corps
48th Chinese Corps
3rd Prov Chinese Corps
115th Red Chinese Division
92nd Chinese Corps
78th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
81st Chinese Corps
25th Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Cavalry Corps
60th Chinese Corps
63rd Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Corps
58th Chinese Corps
7th New Chinese Corps
9th Prov Chinese Corps
37th Chinese Corps
46th Chinese Corps
30th Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
57th Chinese Corps
5th New Chinese Corps
42nd Chinese Corps
10th Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
9th Separate Brigade
1st Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Cavalry Corps
47th Chinese Corps
16th Chinese Corps
12th Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
14th Chinese Corps
84th Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
94th Chinese Corps
87th Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Corps
56th Chinese Corps
51st Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
5th Chinese Cavalry Corps
77th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
7th Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
35th Chinese Corps
2nd Construction Regiment
33rd Group Army
16th Construction Regiment
11th Group Army
21st Group Army
5th Group Army
4th Heavy Mortar Regiment
2nd War Area
29th Group Army
20th Group Army
13th Construction Regiment
98th Chinese Corps
259th Brigade
14th Construction Regiment
8th Group Army
22nd Group Army
9th Chinese Base Force
6th Chinese Base Force
32nd Group Army
12th Construction Regiment
9th War Area
10th Construction Regiment
7th Artillery Regiment
37th Group Army
7th Group Army
7th Chinese Base Force
25th Group Army
41st AA Regiment
16th Chinese Base Force
43rd Chinese Corps
1st Group Army
31st Group Army
18th Group Army
34th Chinese Corps
19th Group Army
1st Chinese Base Force
20th Chinese Base Force
36th Group Army
Lusu War Area
6th Group Army
15th Chinese Base Force
5th War Area
4th Group Army
5th Construction Regiment
17th Chinese Base Force
6th War Area
7th Construction Regiment
38th Group Army
1st Construction Regiment
Jingcha War Area
34th Group Army
10th Chinese Base Force
2nd Group Army
18th Chinese Base Force
15th Group Army
14th Group Army
11th Chinese Base Force
3rd Group Army
4th Chinese Base Force
26th Group Army
1st War Area
17th Group Army
24th Group Army
13th Group Army
9th Group Army
11th Construction Regiment
57th AT Gun Regiment
2nd Chinese Base Force
39th Group Army
83rd Chinese Corps
27th Group Army
Central Reserve
17th Construction Regiment
8th Construction Regiment
Red Chinese Army
40th Chinese Corps
1st Artillery Regiment
49th AA Regiment
3rd War Area
12th Group Army
6th Construction Regiment
7th War Area
3rd Heavy Mortar Regiment
China Command
CAF HQ
23rd Group Army
3rd Construction Regiment
20th Artillery Regiment
4th War Area
13th Chinese Base Force
56th AT Gun Regiment

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 755
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/27/2012 3:13:51 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		The Big Picture #13a: Fine-tuning Pilot Training Practices

This is the first in a series of posts covering the current state of Allied pilot training across various nationalities, service branches and types of air squadrons.


Overview: The general objective of all pilot training (regardless of nationality and service branch) is production of pilots with sufficient experience rating that are fully trained in one or more specialized skills for the specific mission(s) each individual pilot is being prepared to fly. Preparation of individual pilots and their assigned training path will be tailored to the type(s) of air squadrons where a pilot is expected to be assigned.

Pilot training is an activity common to all air squadrons, whether a front-line squadron or a permanent dedicated training squadron in a rear-area. The intent is to operate any front-line air squadron as a training squadron when not actively engaged in a combat, search, recon or air transport mission, or during time when the squadron is in process of transfer from one base to another.


Training Squadrons: Where possible (and to the greatest extent possible), pilot training activity is conducted in rear-area squadrons designated specifically for pilot training.

Dedicated full-time pilot training squadrons are now established to some extent in Allied air forces for nearly all nationalities and service branches. Air squadrons designated for full-time pilot training can have this designation either permanently or on a temporary basis. Dedicated training squadrons include but not restricted to the following categories.

• All non-transferrable squadrons in restricted commands are permanently dedicated to pilot training as long as they are in the game.

• Many LBA air squadrons starting the game on 12/7/41 and having a withdrawal date were designated for use as “permanent” full-time pilot training squadrons, this “permanent” status extending through the squadron’s set withdrawal date. It should be noted many squadrons with withdrawal dates (particularly US nationality) return to the game later as reinforcements – current plans intend for these squadrons to become front-line air units when they re-enter the game.

• Squadrons aboard all US CVE’s are being utilized temporarily as dedicated pilot training squadrons, at least for the time the CVE’s are being kept in reserve status during the remainder of the Allied build-up period (estimated to continue at least through mid to late-1943). Pilot training activity in CVE air squadrons during their temporary status is geared exclusively towards production of as many fully-trained carrier pilots as possible for employment aboard US fleet CV/CVL’s in the available time there is to do so. As US CVE’s become required for use in front-line combat operations, air squadrons aboard these CVE will be converted back from a full-time training role and re-configured for employment in front-line combat. Air squadrons aboard CVE employed as replacement carriers will likely remain in some form of training status.

As a general rule, plans are for all air squadrons in front-line theatres that are not actively engaged in or supporting combat operations to be in training mode during those periods of time where they are not actively involved in combat operations – possible exceptions including squadrons that are rebuilding from combat losses, upgrading to newer plane types, or in the process of transfer from one base to another. Training activities in front-line air squadrons will consist largely of Phase #2 (advanced) or other additional training in pilot skill(s) appropriate to the air squadron’s type and mission(s).

Plans are for all Phase #1 (primary) training of ”rookie” pilots to occur entirely (or as close to entirely as possible) in dedicated rear-area training squadrons. The intent of this policy will have all pilots in front-line squadrons with Phase #1 (primary) training completed in the appropriate skill area(s) needed to accomplish a front-line air squadron’s normally assigned mission(s).


Projected Future of Pilot Training: It should be noted the number of available Allied rear-area pilot training squadrons is expected to decline later in the campaign (particularly 1944-45) as dedicated training squadrons with withdrawal dates leave the game and other squadrons now being used for dedicated training are converted to front-line operational status. The timing and amount of this decline will vary by nationality and service branch – this decline largely driven by evolution of the overall strategic situation and changes in front-line operational air mission requirements. This situation also creates an incentive to produce as many fully-trained pilots as early as possible while dedicated pilot training squadrons remain available in quantity.


Caveats, Disclaimers, etc: Setting all this up takes work and the whole pilot training structure described here continues to be a work in progress – this said recognizing the possibility if not the fact that requirements for pilot training in 1944-45 can or will be different from what exists in 1942-43, let alone training changes needed to accommodate shifts in the overall war strategy or strategic situation. Much of the process to create an air pilot training structure also involved a considerable amount of evaluation as well as trial and error.

While what’s described here appears to be rather convoluted (and it does take a considerable amount of planning and effort to set up), the process runs pretty smoothly once it’s all in place. The main game turn-to-game turn activity then becomes checking training squadrons and rotating out pilots who have completed whatever training activity is being done in that squadron – then replacing any rotated-out pilots with new pilots, either “rookies” or from the Reserve pilot pool, selection of new pilots according to the appropriate “input” to that training squadron for the specialized “Phase” and type of training (pilot skill) being done in the squadron.

The process I set up and described in this and subsequent posts is the result of choosing between two schools-of-thought for pilot training – (1) the “one room schoolhouse” where a batch of “rookie” pilots remain in the same squadron and complete all the different steps of training in that squadron from start to finish, or (2) the “assembly line” where each squadron involved in training pilots (dedicated full-time, front-line unit, or otherwise) is assigned to train pilots in a specific skill and for a specific phase of training, with pilots moving between different squadrons and the Reserve pilot pool as they train in each skill and progress from one training phase to the next.

School #1 requires the player to keep track of what skill pilots in each squadron are currently training in and what particular step of training is underway in that squadron at any given time. This option also requires the player to “move” each squadron from one step of training to the next when all its pilots complete skill training for a given step, this assuming all pilots in a squadron fully complete a training step together and at the same time, which they usually don’t.

School #2 requires a player to track only the specific pilot skill each squadron is assigned to train (a training squadron’s assigned skill remaining for the most part constant) - the other required action being to periodically check each training squadron, rotate-out pilots who have completed the training in the squadron’s assigned skill (70 or greater) to the Reserve pilot pool, and replace rotated-out pilots with fresh untrained pilots for the particular skill being trained for in the training squadron.

I took door number 2…

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 756
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/27/2012 4:39:38 AM   
BBfanboy


Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline 		Thanks for posting this - pilot training remains one of the things I have to finish learning about.
I do most of the things you do with assigning restricted sqns to training and doing more advanced training with operational squadrons when possible. What has always confuses me is the pilot pools and TRACOM - have never been able to figure out how to access them. I have only ever seen the "sqn reserve" pool, which is limited to pilots already assigned to the sqn.

During initial training I often see some pilots who are hopeless at the particular skill that the sqn is teaching but who have decent stats for some of the other skills. From what you are telling me I guess the idea is to kick them out of that sqn and bring in a rookie who may or may not do better - then check a few weeks later to see if the rookie has an aptitide for that skill?

Meanwhile the guy moved out of the sqn to the reserve pool can be shunted [when space is available] into a sqn specializing in skills he has shown some talent for?

Is there any transportation issue for getting a new 70+ pilot from a rear area to the front line sqn, or does he just "appear" the way aircraft do? Is there sometimes a time delay such as happens with leader replacements?

_____________________________

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 wneumann)
Post #: 757
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/28/2012 5:14:34 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		BBfanboy,

You're welcome...

Up to this point I haven't been using TRACOM. Many Allied players don't use TRACOM from what I read in various parts of the forum. To start with... any pilot going into the TRACOM pool has to have an 80+ experience rating. The Allies don't have that many 80-experience level pilots (at least as far in the campaign as I ever played), at least pilots with 80+ experience in any sufficient quantity to operate a TRACOM pool. Later on I might have a use for TRACOM and set it up, depends on whether there is any need or benefit to do so.

As far as moving pilots around... there's no transportation required for moving pilots between squadrons and the Reserve pilot pool. The Reserve pilot pool is a pool containing pilots not currently assigned to a particular air squadron. Pilots pass back and forth between the Reserve pool and a squadron through the squadron's Group Reserve (what you referred to in you post as "sqn reserve").

Moving a pilot from one squadron to another involves two steps, (1) transferring the pilot from the squadron he is leaving into the Reserve pool, this is done in the squadron that the pilot is leaving; and (2) after the pilot is in Reserve pool, the pilot is transferred into the new squadron, this step done by going to the pilot's new squadron and retrieving the pilot from the Reserve pool. As far as time delay... the first step above occurs immediately. There is a time delay when retrieving the pilot from the Reserve pool into the new squadron - variable up to 7 days but occasionally happens immediately. The delay in the second step is a result of the fact a pilot being brought into a squadron from the Reserve pool is actually brought into the squadron's Group Reserve, not directly into the squadron. During the time delay, the pilot is in the new squadron's Group Reserve waiting to enter the new squadron - this is the time when the pilot is "in transit". No "physical" transport of the pilot on the game map is involved, the process occurs entirely within the squadron pilot rosters and the various pilot pools involved. Think of it like "beaming" the pilot from one place to the next.

(Step 1) Old Squadron --> Old Squadron's Group Reserve Pool --> Reserve pool
(Step 2) Reserve pool --> New Squadron's Group Reserve Pool --> New Squadron






(in reply to BBfanboy)
Post #: 758
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/28/2012 5:18:56 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/22/43

Japanese Home Islands: US sub patrol SW of Kyushu intercepts a Jap transport TF in a night action. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Amami Oshima at 98,62 (NW of Amami Oshima)

Japanese Ships
xAK Koyu Maru, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage
SC CHa-32

Allied Ships
SS Herring

Massive explosion on xAK Koyu Maru
SS Herring launches 4 torpedoes at xAK Koyu Maru
Herring diving deep ....
SC CHa-32 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Another US patrol sub W of Tsushima contacts a Japanese transport. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Fukue-jima at 99,59 (NW of Kagoshima)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Hokuhi Maru, Shell hits 4

Allied Ships
SS Finback, hits 1 (minimal system damage, sub remains on patrol)

xAKL Hokuhi Maru is sighted by SS Finback
SS Finback attacking xAKL Hokuhi Maru on the surface
McLean, E.R. decides to submerge SS Finback due to damage

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Western Pacific: US sub Grampus near the Formosa Straits reports attack by Ki-48 Lily air patrol. No reported hits or damage.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/21 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 97,123 near Madang, Speed 4, Moving West


Australia: Unidentified Jap submarine detected off Perth. Allied surface ASW dispatched to find and attack it.


DEI: Second wave air strike from US main carrier force hits oil production facilities in Palembang. AAR follows.

Current detected status of Palembang base shows oil 548(353), port damage 51, 1 Jap TF, 86 aircraft (56 fighters, 30 bombers), 5 LCU. Detected base information is showing about 40% damage to Palembang oil production.

Fighter CAP over the US carrier force shot down one Ki-21 and two Ki-49 planes on naval search, otherwise no Japanese air activity over the US carriers. Jap air strikes against the US carrier force remain a possibility.

US sub Kingfish on patrol in the Malacca Straits reports contact with one or more unidentified Jap TF near Medan (hex location 47, 77), the Jap TF reported moving on a NW heading. A second US patrol sub in the Andaman Sea is being routed towards the Malacca Straits in an attempt to maintain contact with the Jap TF(s). This contact is of interest as a possible Japanese naval sortie from Singapore.

As much as it was desired to launch a third wave strike on Palembang (given the likely result of a third strike is a considerable amount of additional damage to Palembang’s oil production at minimal or no risk of adverse combat results), the decision was reached to break off the attack and head home. All carriers had sufficient air operations remaining to launch the third strike, plane losses (both combat and operational) from the first two strikes were minimal. The decisive consideration was remaining ship endurance (fuel) in the carrier force. Factoring in additional fuel consumption by ships required for launching strike planes and CAP for a third air strike, plus the possibility of more fuel consumption in the event the carrier force is engaged by a Japanese air strike or any type of surface combat action, additional ship endurance expended due to either or both these actions would have a considerable effect on the margin of error with fuel consumption needed for ships in the carrier force on their return trip. If ship endurance was not a factor, there would be no question of launching a third strike. Running out of gas in the middle of the Indian Ocean is not a good option.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Palembang, at 48,91

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid detected at 38 NM, estimated altitude 15,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-43-Ic Oscar x 42
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 36

Allied aircraft
F4F-3 Wildcat x 8
F4F-4 Wildcat x 51
SBD-3 Dauntless x 203
TBF-1 Avenger x 103

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-43-Ic Oscar: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-3 Wildcat: 1 destroyed
F4F-4 Wildcat: 4 destroyed
SBD-3 Dauntless: 1 destroyed, 4 damaged
TBF-1 Avenger: 16 damaged

Oil hits 96

Aircraft Attacking:
11 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
18 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
City Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
15 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
17 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
City Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
20 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
18 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
City Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
6 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
18 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
City Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
16 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
18 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
City Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
5 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
14 x TBF-1 Avenger bombing from 4000 feet
City Attack: 2 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
12 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
8 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
10 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
21 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
9 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 3000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
16 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
11 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 4000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
4 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
8 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
8 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
10 x SBD-3 Dauntless releasing from 2000'
City Attack: 1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
68th Sentai with Ki-43-Ic Oscar (13 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(13 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
13 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Raid is overhead
21st Sentai with Ki-43-Ic Oscar (3 airborne, 6 on standby, 20 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 8000 and 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 35 minutes
59th Sentai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (3 airborne, 8 on standby, 25 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 5000 and 18000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 34 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other entries pertaining to this raid from the 2/21 Operations report follow.

Pilot killed in landing accident of TBF-1 Avenger from VT-5
SBD-3 Dauntless from VB-6 crashes on landing
SBD-3 Dauntless from VB-2 is written off
SBD-3 Dauntless from VB-5 is damaged on landing
SBD-3 Dauntless from VB-8 crashes on landing
SBD-3 Dauntless from VB-8 is damaged on landing
SOC-1 Seagull from VCS-5/1 is written off
SBD-3 Dauntless from VB-8 crashes on landing
F4F-4 Wildcat from VF-2 is written off
F4F-4 Wildcat from VF-3 is damaged on landing
TBF-1 Avenger from VT-6 is written off
TBF-1 Avenger from VT-71 is written off

Pillager did get something out to engage the US carrier force, though this Jap submarine may have already been out in the Indian Ocean prior to the start of the Palembang attack. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Benkoelen at 43,91 (due S of Benkolen)

Japanese Ships
SS I-154

Allied Ships
CV Lexington
CA Astoria
CA Indianapolis
CL Phoenix
DD Lardner
DD Grayson
DD Smith
DD Dunlap
DD Hughes
DD Sims

SS I-154 launches 6 torpedoes at CV Lexington
I-154 diving deep ....
DD Smith fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Dunlap fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Hughes fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Sims fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 15 Japanese ships anchored in port, no Jap TF in harbor, 69 aircraft (39 fighters, 30 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese ground bombardment at Chungking continues. Latest AAR follows.

3 detected Japanese LCU in hexes adjacent to Chungking.

** below indicates Japanese LCU reinforcements arriving this game turn. (no new arrivals)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chungking (76,45)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 3315 troops, 298 guns, 103 vehicles, Assault Value = 8254
Defending force 551728 troops, 3255 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 18229

Japanese ground losses:
Vehicles lost 1 (1 destroyed, 0 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
34 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
40th Division
58th Division
39th Division
104th Division
1st Ind.Mixed Brigade
23rd Ind.Mixed Brigade
116th Division
22nd Division
26th Division
7th Ind.Mixed Brigade
110th Division
36th Division
70th Division
37th Division
15th Division
35th Division
8th Armored Car Co
13th Division
41st Division
34th Division
4th Ind.Mixed Brigade
17th Division
3rd Tank Division
59th Infantry Brigade
9th Ind.Mixed Brigade
32nd Division
38th Division
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
23rd Army
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
11th Army
2nd Mortar Battalion
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
21st Mortar Battalion
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
12th Army
North China Area Army
1st Mortar Battalion
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
81st Chinese Corps
59th Chinese Corps
96th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
19th Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Corps
41st Chinese Corps
13th Chinese Corps
12th Chinese Corps
7th Chinese Corps
47th Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Cavalry Corps
90th Chinese Corps
9th Prov Chinese Corps
39th Chinese Corps
7th New Chinese Corps
91st Chinese Corps
58th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
35th Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
50th Chinese Corps
129th Red Chinese Division
30th Chinese Corps
36th Chinese Corps
48th Chinese Corps
31st Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Cavalry Corps
1st New Chinese Corps
61st Chinese Corps
56th Chinese Corps
84th Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
42nd Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
10th Chinese Corps
23rd Chinese Corps
65th Chinese Corps
77th Chinese Corps
60th Chinese Corps
53rd Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
20th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
38th Chinese Corps
25th Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Corps
89th Chinese Corps
17th Chinese Corps
51st Chinese Corps
5th Chinese Cavalry Corps
57th Chinese Corps
99th Chinese Corps
63rd Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps
3rd Prov Chinese Corps
70th Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
120th Red Chinese Division
14th Chinese Corps
9th Chinese Corps
94th Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Cavalry Corps
86th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
55th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Cavalry Corps
22nd Chinese Corps
9th Separate Brigade
29th Chinese Corps
78th Chinese Corps
76th Chinese Corps
18th Chinese Corps
11th Chinese Corps
46th Chinese Corps
16th Chinese Corps
21st Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
85th Chinese Corps
37th Chinese Corps
92nd Chinese Corps
26th Chinese Corps
5th New Chinese Corps
69th Chinese Corps
72nd Chinese Corps
87th Chinese Corps
115th Red Chinese Division
73rd Chinese Corps
74th Chinese Corps
97th Chinese Corps
27th Chinese Corps
2nd Construction Regiment
2nd War Area
6th Group Army
7th Construction Regiment
20th Artillery Regiment
2nd Group Army
3rd Group Army
3rd Construction Regiment
13th Chinese Base Force
3rd Heavy Mortar Regiment
14th Group Army
23rd Group Army
Lusu War Area
40th Chinese Corps
15th Group Army
17th Construction Regiment
11th Construction Regiment
11th Chinese Base Force
5th War Area
18th Group Army
38th Group Army
36th Group Army
17th Group Army
13th Group Army
7th Artillery Regiment
26th Group Army
83rd Chinese Corps
31st Group Army
21st Group Army
29th Group Army
4th Heavy Mortar Regiment
5th Construction Regiment
14th Construction Regiment
15th Chinese Base Force
18th Chinese Base Force
39th Group Army
1st Artillery Regiment
6th War Area
22nd Group Army
4th War Area
China Command
49th AA Regiment
9th War Area
259th Brigade
33rd Group Army
6th Construction Regiment
1st Chinese Base Force
11th Group Army
34th Chinese Corps
9th Chinese Base Force
2nd Chinese Base Force
19th Group Army
25th Group Army
34th Group Army
5th Group Army
12th Group Army
Red Chinese Army
43rd Chinese Corps
7th Chinese Base Force
3rd War Area
57th AT Gun Regiment
1st Construction Regiment
10th Chinese Base Force
7th War Area
32nd Group Army
20th Group Army
16th Chinese Base Force
10th Construction Regiment
37th Group Army
1st War Area
8th Construction Regiment
24th Group Army
4th Group Army
7th Group Army
12th Construction Regiment
98th Chinese Corps
16th Construction Regiment
8th Group Army
27th Group Army
4th Chinese Base Force
1st Group Army
13th Construction Regiment
6th Chinese Base Force
20th Chinese Base Force
Central Reserve
17th Chinese Base Force
41st AA Regiment
Jingcha War Area
CAF HQ
9th Group Army
56th AT Gun Regiment

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 759
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/28/2012 5:22:57 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		The Big Picture #13b: Fine-tuning Pilot Training Practices (LBA and Carrier-based Fighters)

As it turns out... fighter pilot training is relatively simple compared to bombers (especially LBA bombers) as will be covered in the next installment of this series.

LBA Fighter pilot training: This process is common to training of all land-based fighter pilots, including USAAF, US Marine VMF squadrons, RAF (including Indian squadrons), Australian, Canadian, New Zealand and Chinese-exile air forces.

The general path of training for LBA fighter pilots is completed in two steps.

Phase #1 (primary) training for LBA fighter pilots consists of specific skill training for air-to-air combat (Air skill). This phase is the entry point for all “rookie” replacement pilots being trained for employment as pilots in LBA fighter squadrons. Phase #1 LBA fighter training has been set as the minimum training level required for all pilots assigned to fly in an LBA fighter squadron.

As much as possible, all Phase #1 LBA fighter pilot training is performed in rear-area training squadrons specifically dedicated to full-time (100% level) Air skill training. Pilots in these training squadrons remain until they reach a 70+ Air skill rating. Pilots reaching a 70 Air skill rating are rotated out of the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool, vacancies in the training squadron then filled with new “rookie” pilots from the replacement pool.

Pilots completing Phase #1 LBA fighter pilot training remain in the Reserve pilot pool until transfer to either a front-line LBA fighter squadron, or transferred into another pilot training squadron set up for Phase #2 LBA fighter training.

Phase #2 (advanced) training for LBA fighter pilots consists of specific skill training for low-level strafing (Staf skill) – this level of training intended for pilots already having a 70+ Air skill rating (completion of Phase #1 LBA fighter pilot training or equivalent). Pilots completing Phase #2 LBA fighter training should have 70+ levels in both Air and Staf skill ratings. The main intent of Phase #2 LBA fighter pilot training is maximizing pilot experience and defensive combat (Defn) ratings, rather than any emphasis on training for strafing missions

Phase #2 LBA fighter pilot training may be conducted in either front-line air squadrons or in dedicated rear-area training squadrons set up for Phase #2 training. Front-line LBA fighter squadrons not currently in an active combat operation will be training for the sweep (Staf) skill during time periods when not involved in a specific mission or other activity. Dedicated training squadrons for Phase #2 LBA pilot training will perform this training on a full-time basis. Pilots sent to front-line LBA fighter squadrons for Phase #2 training are “extra” pilots over and above the minimum number required to fly planes that are attached to the squadron.

Pilots completing Phase #2 LBA fighter pilot training in dedicated training squadrons are rotated from the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool once they reach a 70+ strafing (Staf) skill rating. Once in the Reserve pool, these pilots are available for employment in front-line LBA fighter squadrons.


Carrier-based Fighter pilot training: This process is used in training of all carrier-based fighter pilots, primarily US Navy.

The general path of training for carrier-based fighter pilots is mostly similar to training for LBA fighter pilots and is also conducted in two steps.

Phase #1 (primary) training for carrier fighter pilots consists of specific skill training for air-to-air combat (Air skill). This phase is the entry point for all “rookie” replacement pilots being trained for employment as pilots in carrier-based fighter squadrons. Phase #1 carrier fighter training has been set as the minimum training level required for all pilots assigned to fly combat operations in a carrier-based fighter squadron.

Currently, most Phase #1 training for USN carrier fighter pilots is being performed in VF squadrons based aboard CVE’s – these VF squadrons at this time designated full-time training squadrons. It should be noted this is a temporary solution which is valid only until the CVE ships and their VF squadrons are needed for front-line operations – when the VF squadrons must be converted from training to operational use.

Pilots in Phase #1 carrier fighter pilot training squadrons remain until they reach a 70+ Air skill rating. Pilots reaching a 70 Air skill rating are rotated out of the VF training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool, vacancies in the training squadron then filled with new “rookie” pilots from the replacement pool.

Pilots completing Phase #1 carrier fighter pilot training remain in the Reserve pilot pool until transfer to either a front-line VF fighter squadron, or transferred into another pilot training squadron set up for Phase #2 carrier fighter training.

Phase #2 (advanced) training for carrier fighter pilots consists of specific skill training for low-level strafing (Staf skill) – this level of training intended for pilots already having a 70+ Air skill rating (completion of Phase #1 carrier fighter pilot training or equivalent). Pilots completing Phase #2 carrier fighter training should have 70+ levels in both Air and Staf skill ratings. The main intent of Phase #2 carrier fighter pilot training is maximizing pilot experience and defensive combat (Defn) ratings, rather than any emphasis on training for strafing missions

Phase #2 carrier fighter pilot training may be conducted in either front-line VF squadrons aboard a fleet CV or in a dedicated training squadrons aboard a CVE set up for Phase #2 training. Front-line VF squadrons not currently in an active combat operation will be training for the sweep (Staf) skill during time periods when not involved in a specific mission or other activity. Dedicated training squadrons on CVE’s for Phase #2 carrier pilot training will perform this training on a full-time basis. Pilots sent to front-line VF fighter squadrons for Phase #2 training are “extra” pilots over and above the minimum number required to fly planes that are attached to the squadron.

Pilots completing Phase #2 carrier fighter pilot training in dedicated VF training squadrons on a CVE are rotated from the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool once they reach a 70+ strafing (Staf) skill rating. Once in the Reserve pool, these pilots are available for employment in front-line LBA fighter squadrons.

It's anticipated that most or all Phase #2 pilot training for carrier fighters will move away from dedicated rear-area training squadrons and into front-line CV, CVL or CVE squadrons (during time intervals between combat operations).

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 760
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/28/2012 11:35:14 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/23/43

Japanese Home Islands: US sub patrol near Tsushima Strait intercepts a Jap transport in a night action. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Saishu To at 100,56 (WNW of Nagasaki/Sasebo)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Kizugawa Maru, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage (sunk)

Allied Ships
SS Silversides

SS Silversides launches 2 torpedoes at xAKL Kizugawa Maru

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As reported in the last several game turns, the US submarine probe into sea areas west of Kyushu near the Tsushima Straits has proved rather lucrative. While all the Jap transports intercepted in this area were small xAK or xAKL, these patrols have yielded a continuous series of contacts. There is little question this development has caught Pillager’s attention – it is likely Japanese surface and/or air ASW forces will have to be diverted from elsewhere to cover this new “front”. This latest US sub action has become a miniature Pacific version of the U-boats “Happy Time”.


Formosa Straits: US sub Grampus covering the Formosa Straits reports attack by Ki-21 Sally air patrol. No reported hits or damage.


Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 2/22 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Gardner Is and Vaitupu. Detected statuses of both Gardner Is and Vaitupu show no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/22 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: 13 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


SW Pacific: Sigint entry for 2/22 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Port Moresby. Detected status of Port Moresby shows unidentified Jap aircraft based there, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity. Detected airfield size at Port Moresby is 4(6), port size 1(2). Four Jap LCU are known to be in Port Moresby from available intelligence data – including 8 Base Force (IJN), 3 Cavalry Brigade, Maizuru 1 SNLF and 83 Naval Gd unit.


DEI: Dutch submarine K-XVIII on patrol S of Sunda Straits hit and moderately damaged (system damage 29, float 6, engine 3) in attack by Ki-49 Helen air patrol. K-XVIII is returning to base for repair, moving at 15 kts.

US main carrier force begins withdrawal from strike on Palembang, some automatic at-sea ship refueling appears to occurred. Jap submarine (probably I-154 encountered last game turn) detected at carrier force’s previous location off Benkoelen. Examination of this game turn’s ship endurance status in the carrier TFs is showing a third strike on Palembang would have likely resulted in serious consequences with fuel status of ships in the carrier force had it remained off Palembang and launched a third strike. A review of Section 6.2.13 in the game manual last game turn was a life-saver.


Straits of Malacca: US sub patrol in the straits near Medan (at hex location 47, 77) reports contact with Japanese TF moving northward. Jap TF reported to contain two ships, including one AO and one DD. Replenishment TF, or is Pillager simply using the AO as a fuel/oil transport in a run to Burma? AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Tandjoengbalai at 47,77 (NE of Medan)

Japanese Ships
DD Kuri

Allied Ships
SS Kingfish

SS Kingfish is sighted by escort
DD Kuri fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Andaman Sea: US sub patrol engages Jap surface ASW. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Tavoy at 52,58 (WNW of Tavoy)

Japanese Ships
PB Shanan Maru #16
SC CHa-10
PB Tokuho Maru #5

Allied Ships
SS Peto

SS Peto launches 2 torpedoes at PB Shanan Maru #16
Peto diving deep ....
PB Tokuho Maru #5 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 15 Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (+2 from last report), 70 aircraft (43 fighters, 27 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese ground bombardment at Chungking continues. AAR follows.

3 detected Japanese LCU in hexes adjacent to Chungking.

** below indicates Japanese LCU reinforcements arriving this game turn. (no new arrivals)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chungking (76,45)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 3315 troops, 298 guns, 102 vehicles, Assault Value = 8411
Defending force 554142 troops, 3251 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 18350

Allied ground losses:
76 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 7 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 3 (3 destroyed, 0 disabled)

Assaulting units:
59th Infantry Brigade
116th Division
36th Division
110th Division
35th Division
70th Division
1st Ind.Mixed Brigade
22nd Division
32nd Division
26th Division
3rd Tank Division
37th Division
40th Division
13th Division
17th Division
104th Division
41st Division
34th Division
39th Division
4th Ind.Mixed Brigade
23rd Ind.Mixed Brigade
7th Ind.Mixed Brigade
58th Division
9th Ind.Mixed Brigade
8th Armored Car Co
15th Division
38th Division
12th Army
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
North China Area Army
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
21st Mortar Battalion
11th Army
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
23rd Army
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
2nd Mortar Battalion
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
1st Mortar Battalion
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
58th Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
92nd Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Cavalry Corps
37th Chinese Corps
69th Chinese Corps
120th Red Chinese Division
11th Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
129th Red Chinese Division
84th Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
94th Chinese Corps
65th Chinese Corps
12th Chinese Corps
7th New Chinese Corps
39th Chinese Corps
35th Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
89th Chinese Corps
81st Chinese Corps
78th Chinese Corps
20th Chinese Corps
28th New Chinese Division
62nd Chinese Corps
42nd Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
91st Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
36th Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Corps
5th Chinese Cavalry Corps
27th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
51st Chinese Corps
77th Chinese Corps
53rd Chinese Corps
31st Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
63rd Chinese Corps
38th Chinese Corps
9th Separate Brigade
47th Chinese Corps
10th Chinese Corps
61st Chinese Corps
99th Chinese Corps
18th Chinese Corps
17th Chinese Corps
48th Chinese Corps
9th Chinese Corps
9th Prov Chinese Corps
70th Chinese Corps
21st Chinese Corps
55th Chinese Corps
22nd Chinese Corps
57th Chinese Corps
30th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Cavalry Corps
50th Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Cavalry Corps
29th Chinese Corps
90th Chinese Corps
5th New Chinese Corps
1st New Chinese Corps
76th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
74th Chinese Corps
96th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
26th Chinese Corps
56th Chinese Corps
16th Chinese Corps
13th Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Cavalry Corps
85th Chinese Corps
83rd Chinese Corps
25th Chinese Corps
115th Red Chinese Division
93rd Chinese Corps
60th Chinese Corps
14th Chinese Corps
59th Chinese Corps
19th Chinese Corps
7th Chinese Corps
97th Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Corps
46th Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
3rd Prov Chinese Corps
23rd Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Corps
87th Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
72nd Chinese Corps
41st Chinese Corps
2nd Construction Regiment
34th Group Army
49th AA Regiment
6th Group Army
16th Chinese Base Force
4th Group Army
41st AA Regiment
19th Group Army
6th War Area
Red Chinese Army
4th Heavy Mortar Regiment
3rd War Area
2nd Group Army
China Command
14th Construction Regiment
25th Group Army
17th Chinese Base Force
1st Group Army
10th Construction Regiment
11th Group Army
3rd Heavy Mortar Regiment
20th Artillery Regiment
14th Group Army
12th Group Army
13th Construction Regiment
3rd Group Army
13th Group Army
Lusu War Area
57th AT Gun Regiment
8th Construction Regiment
10th Chinese Base Force
11th Chinese Base Force
32nd Group Army
2nd War Area
27th Group Army
29th Group Army
4th War Area
16th Construction Regiment
24th Group Army
5th War Area
15th Group Army
13th Chinese Base Force
8th Group Army
7th War Area
7th Construction Regiment
20th Chinese Base Force
1st Artillery Regiment
3rd Construction Regiment
11th Construction Regiment
15th Chinese Base Force
Jingcha War Area
9th Chinese Base Force
26th Group Army
18th Chinese Base Force
7th Chinese Base Force
1st War Area
39th Group Army
40th Chinese Corps
5th Construction Regiment
2nd Chinese Base Force
4th Chinese Base Force
6th Chinese Base Force
20th Group Army
38th Group Army
7th Group Army
31st Group Army
1st Chinese Base Force
17th Group Army
CAF HQ
23rd Group Army
33rd Group Army
18th Group Army
9th War Area
21st Group Army
9th Group Army
17th Construction Regiment
34th Chinese Corps
12th Construction Regiment
1st Construction Regiment
5th Group Army
36th Group Army
259th Brigade
7th Artillery Regiment
98th Chinese Corps
43rd Chinese Corps
37th Group Army
22nd Group Army
Central Reserve
6th Construction Regiment
56th AT Gun Regiment

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 761
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/28/2012 11:53:05 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		The Big Picture #14 – LBA Bombing Squadron Specialization and “Branches of Service”

Two things recognized early on were – (1) there is a considerable variety of possible missions a given LBA bomber squadron can be assigned to fly, and (2) pilots in a LBA bombing squadrons are not likely to be fully-trained in all the pilot skills needed to fly all the possible missions that can be flown. Actually, it is simply not feasible to fully train LBA bomber pilots in a squadron in all the significant number of different pilot skills needed to competently fly all the LBA bomber squadron’s possible missions.

The approach taken to resolve this was specialization of LBA bomber squadrons and the pilots assigned to these squadrons by mission type. The main advantage being squadrons specialized for specific mission type(s) will be optimally suited to flying those mission(s), the main disadvantage being a squadron specialized for specific mission(s) is not very well suited (if suited at all) to fly other types of missions.


LBA Bombing “Branches of Service”: The problem of LBA bombing specialization was handled by creating two distinct “Branches of Service” for LBA bombers, then assigning individual front-line LBA bomber squadrons to either of the branches. The two LBA bomber “Branches of Service” are distinguished by specialized type(s) of operations performed by squadrons in each branch, with LBA bomber pilot training also split to specialize between the two branches. The two LBA bomber “Branches of Service” are listed below and described separately.

• Ground Bombardment LBA
• Naval Strike LBA

Specialization of LBA bomber squadrons has occurred done across all Allied nationalities and service branches where LBA bomber squadrons exist or scheduled to enter the game as reinforcements. Division and allocation of LBA bomber squadrons into “Branches of Service” is handled differently within each nationality/service branch, the exact method specific for a given nationality/service branch tailored to the most likely operational mission(s) that LBA bomber squadrons belonging to that nationality or service branch are most likely to be employed.

It should be noted that allocation of an individual LBA bomber squadron to either of the two “Branches of Service” is not designed to be permanent. However, changes are not anticipated to occur frequently or on a large scale. This scheme of organization allows for conversion of a given bomber squadron from one branch to the other – this done by exchanging pilots and (in some cases) aircraft in the squadron.


Ground Bombardment LBA: Squadrons in this LBA bomber branch of service are specialized and specifically intended for employment in bombing attacks against ground targets of any type – including airfields, ports, city attacks, LCU’s. The following squadron types are included within the Ground bombardment LBA branch.

• All 4E bomber squadrons will be assigned to the Ground Bombardment branch.
• 1E and 2E bomber squadrons designated specifically for employment in ground bombardment operations.

Core training for pilots in ground bombardment LBA squadrons includes both high and low ground bombing skills (GrdB & LowG). Possible secondary skills for these pilots can include recon and naval search. Training in naval bombing and ASW for ground bombardment LBA is not emphasized.

Allocation of LBA bomber squadrons to the Ground Bombardment branch is handled by nationality/branch of service as follows. Note that in some instances, additional breakdown is done by theatre where squadrons are being assigned.

• USAAF (Pacific theatres) – a relatively small number of 2E LBA bomber squadrons are assigned to ground bombardment, the majority of USAAF 2E squadrons in the Pacific are currently being allocated to naval strike.
• USAAF (India/Burma) – USAAF LBA bomber squadrons in this theatre (Tenth USAAF command) allocated mainly to ground bombardment.
• British (RAF) – LBA bomber squadrons assigned mostly to ground bombardment.
• Australian AF – LBA bomber squadrons distributed evenly between ground bombardment and naval strike specialties.
• New Zealand AF – None. Current plans have all New Zealand 2E bomber squadrons allocated to naval strike.
• One operational Dutch AF 2E bomber squadron in the game under SW Pacific command is allocated to ground bombardment.
• Chinese “exile” AF – 2E bomber squadrons assigned mainly to ground bombardment.


Naval Strike LBA: Squadrons in this LBA bomber branch of service are specialized and specifically intended for employment in strikes against naval targets. Specialization of many 2E LBA non-torpedo bomber squadrons in this branch is planned to emphasize low-level skip bombing attacks. Naval strike LBA includes the following types of squadrons.

• No 4E bomber squadrons assigned to this branch, all 4E squadrons are assigned in the ground bombardment branch.
• All 1E or 2E LBA bomber squadrons equipped with torpedo-armed planes, or with planes that may be armed with torpedoes.
• Other 1E or 2E bomber squadrons designated specifically for naval strike operations.

Core training for pilots in naval strike LBA squadrons includes both high and low naval bombing skills (NavB & LowN). Possible secondary skills for these pilots can include naval search and ASW. Training in recon and bombing ground targets is not emphasized.

Allocation of LBA bomber squadrons to the Naval Strike branch is handled by nationality/branch of service as follows. Note that in some instances, additional breakdown is done by theatre where squadrons are being assigned.

• USAAF (Pacific theatres) – most 2E LBA bomber squadrons are being specialized for naval strike missions, only a small number of USAAF 2E squadrons in the Pacific currently allocated to ground bombardment.
• USAAF (India/Burma) – none currently anticipated.
• British (RAF) – a small number of LBA bomber squadrons assigned to naval strike.
• Australian AF – LBA bomber squadrons distributed evenly between ground bombardment and naval strike specialties.
• New Zealand AF –LBA bomber squadrons allocated mainly to naval strike.

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 762
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/28/2012 11:54:46 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		The Big Picture #13c: Fine-tuning Pilot Training Practices (LBA Ground Bombardment)

Training of pilots for LBA bombers varies according to the “Branch of Service” (Ground Bombardment or Naval Strike) individual pilots will be assigned to fly. Naval strike LBA pilot training is covered in a subsequent post.

Ground Bombardment LBA pilot training: Training process for these pilots is common for all land-based pilots that will be attached to 1E, 2E or 4E ground bombardment LBA squadrons. It should be noted that Phase #1 and #2 LBA ground bombardment training is designed to be completely interchangeable between 1E, 2E and 4E bombers – the intent is that individual pilots completing this training can fly in any LBA ground bombardment squadron, regardless of plane type (1E, 2E, 4E). LBA Ground bombardment training is also common across all nationalities and branches of service where LBA ground bombardment air squadrons are being operated.

The general path of training for LBA ground bombardment pilots is completed in two steps.

Phase #1 (primary) training for these pilots consists of specific skill training for high-altitude ground attack (GrdB skill). This phase is the entry point for all “rookie” replacement pilots being trained for employment as pilots in LBA ground bombardment squadrons. Phase #1 LBA ground bombardment pilot training has been set as the minimum training level required for all pilots assigned to fly in any LBA ground bombardment squadron.

As much as possible, all Phase #1 LBA ground bombardment pilot training is performed in rear-area training squadrons specifically dedicated to full-time (100% level) GrdB skill training. Pilots in these training squadrons remain until they reach a 70+ GrdB skill rating. Pilots reaching a 70 GrdB skill rating are rotated out of the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool, vacancies in the training squadron then filled with new “rookie” pilots from the replacement pool.

Pilots completing Phase #1 LBA ground bombardment pilot training remain in the Reserve pilot pool until transfer to either a front-line LBA ground bombardment squadron (1E, 2E or 4E), or transferred into another pilot training squadron set up for Phase #2 LBA ground bombardment training.

Phase #2 (advanced) training for LBA ground bombardment pilots consists of specific skill training for low-level ground attack (LowG skill) – this level of training intended for pilots already having a 70+ GrdB skill rating (completion of Phase #1 LBA ground bombardment pilot training or equivalent). Pilots completing Phase #2 LBA ground bombardment training should have 70+ levels in both GrdB and LowG skill ratings. The main intent of Phase #2 pilot training for ground bombardment is maximizing pilot experience and defensive (Defn) ratings, and also permitting fully-trained LBA ground bombardment pilots to fly ground attack missions at any desired altitude.

Phase #2 LBA ground bombardment pilot training may be conducted in either front-line air squadrons or in dedicated rear-area training squadrons set up for Phase #2 training.

Pilots completing Phase #2 LBA ground bombardment pilot training in dedicated training squadrons are rotated from the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool once they reach a 70+ low-altitude ground attack (LowG) skill rating. Once in the Reserve pool, these pilots are available for employment in any 1E, 2E or 4E front-line LBA ground bombardment squadron.

Additional skill training for LBA ground bombardment pilots may be done in some front-line ground bombardment squadrons. The type(s) of additional skill training projected for front-line LBA ground bombardment squadrons will be determined for each individual squadron according to the squadron’s assigned theatre and anticipated mission type(s) the squadron may be needed to fly. Examples of some additional pilot training planned or currently being done follow.

• Naval search training in all LBA ground bombardment squadrons in Australia and the Pacific theatres. For 1E and 2E bomber squadrons, this training will enhance ship target acquisition. Training of 4E bomber pilots for naval search allows 4E squadrons to reinforce Allied naval search efforts when these squadrons are not employed on bombing missions.

• No definite plans have been made for additional pilot skill training for LBA ground bombardment squadrons in India (including RAF, Tenth USAAF, Chinese “exile” AF squadrons) – additional mission requirements projected for these squadrons and required pilot training for these mission(s) is being evaluated.


(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 763
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/28/2012 11:57:02 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		The Big Picture #13d: Fine-tuning Pilot Training Practices (LBA Naval Strike)

Naval Attack Bombing LBA pilot training: Training process for these pilots is common for most land-based pilots that will be attached to 1E or 2E LBA naval attack bomber squadrons, a variant of training in place to train pilots being prepared for assignment to LBA torpedo bomber squadrons.

The general path (Phase #1 & #2) for LBA naval attack pilot training is for non-torpedo bombing with a smaller separate pilot training variant for LBA torpedo bombers.

It should be noted the general path (bombing) for Phase #1 and #2 LBA naval attack training is designed to be completely interchangeable between 1E and 2E bombers – the intent is that individual pilots completing the general training path can fly in any LBA naval attack bomber squadron not operating torpedo planes. LBA Naval attack training is also common across all nationalities and branches of service where naval attack LBA bomber air squadrons are being operated.

The general path of training for LBA naval attack bombing pilots is completed in two steps.

Phase #1 (primary) training for LBA naval attack bombing pilots consists of specific skill training for high-altitude naval attack (NavB skill). This phase is the entry point for all “rookie” replacement pilots being trained for employment as pilots in LBA naval attack bombing squadrons. Phase #1 of pilot training LBA naval attack bombing has been set as the minimum training level required for all pilots assigned to fly in any LBA naval attack bombing squadron.

As much as possible, all Phase #1 training for LBA naval attack bombing is performed in rear-area training squadrons specifically dedicated to full-time (100% level) NavB skill training. Pilots in these training squadrons remain until they reach a 70+ NavB skill rating. Pilots reaching a 70 NavB skill rating are rotated out of the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool, vacancies in the training squadron then filled with new “rookie” pilots from the replacement pool.

Pilots completing Phase #1 training for LBA naval attack bombing remain in the Reserve pilot pool until transfer to either a front-line LBA naval attack bombing squadron (1E or 2E), or transferred into another pilot training squadron set up for Phase #2 LBA naval attack bombing training.

Phase #2 (advanced) training for LBA naval attack pilots consists of specific skill training for low-level naval attack (LowN skill) – this level of training intended for pilots already having a 70+ NavB skill rating (completion of Phase #1 LBA naval attack bombing training or equivalent). Pilots completing Phase #2 training for LBA naval attack bombing should have 70+ levels in both NavB and LowN skill ratings. The main intent of Phase #2 pilot training for naval attack bombing is maximizing pilot experience and defensive (Defn) ratings, and also permitting fully-trained LBA naval attack bombing pilots to fly naval attack bombing missions at any desired altitude.

Phase #2 pilot training for LBA naval attack bombing training may be conducted in either front-line air squadrons or in dedicated rear-area training squadrons set up for Phase #2 training.

Pilots completing Phase #2 training for LBA naval attack bombing in dedicated training squadrons are rotated from the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool once they reach a 70+ low-altitude ground attack (LowN) skill rating. Once in the Reserve pool, these pilots are available for employment in any 1E or 2E front-line LBA naval attack bombing squadron.


LBA Torpedo Bomber Pilot Training: Pilot training for 1E or 2E LBA torpedo bombers is handled with a separate training path, all LBA torpedo bomber pilot training done entirely within front-line squadrons – as there’s a relatively small number of Allied LBA torpedo bomber squadrons, none of these can really be spared for use as dedicated training squadrons in the rear. Training of LBA torpedo bomber pilots consists of a single training phase, this for the NavT (naval torpedo attack) skill rating.

Additional training in naval search skill (NavS) is planned for many front-line LBA naval attack squadrons both torpedo and bombing.

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 764
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/29/2012 4:48:20 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/24/43

Japanese Home Islands: The “Happy Time” continues for US sub patrols W and SW of Kyushu. Only 3 US fleet subs are operating in this sea area, these accounting for all the reported AAR’s in this area over the last several game turns. Latest AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Amami Oshima at 98,62 (NW of Amami Oshima)

Japanese Ships
xAK Zuiko Maru, Torpedo hits 2, on fire, heavy damage (sunk)

Allied Ships
SS Herring

xAK Zuiko Maru is sighted by SS Herring
SS Herring launches 2 torpedoes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Masan at 101,55 (W of Tsushima Straits)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Teshio Maru, Shell hits 7, on fire

Allied Ships
SS Silversides

xAKL Teshio Maru is sighted by SS Silversides
SS Silversides attacking xAKL Teshio Maru on the surface
Burlingame, C.C. decides to submerge SS Silversides due to damage

(Current damage on SS Silversides – system damage 3, engine 1. Sub remains on patrol. At this time, SS Silversides is in more danger of running out of torpedoes than sinking.)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Another TF of US patrol subs has already been dispatched from Pearl Harbor and bound for this sea area.


Formosa Straits: US sub patrol intercepts small Jap transport TF. Jap TF reported moving southward through the Formosa Straits, two other ships (both appear to be ASW escorts) in the detected TF. SS Grouper is also reporting contact with Ki-21 Sally air patrol at this hex location. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Orchid Island at 86,68 (N of Batan Is)

Japanese Ships
TK Kenwa Maru, Torpedo hits 2, heavy damage (sunk)
PB Sozan Maru

Allied Ships
SS Grouper

SS Grouper launches 4 torpedoes at TK Kenwa Maru
Grouper diving deep ....
PB Sozan Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Central Pacific: US sub patrol reports contact with Jap transport TF near Ponape. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Ponape at 117,115 (WSW of Ponape)

Japanese Ships
AK Yamahuku Maru
xAK Konan Maru
xAK Kiyama Maru
PB Chiyo Maru #4

Allied Ships
SS Scamp

SS Scamp is sighted by escort
Scamp diving deep ....
PB Chiyo Maru #4 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sigint entry for 2/23 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Tarawa. Detected status of Tarawa shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/23 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Indian Ocean: US main carrier force continues withdrawal from strike on Palembang. Situation with remaining ship endurance is tight but manageable.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 15 Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 66 aircraft (42 fighters, 34 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: No reported ground combat at Chungking. Overall situation unchanged.

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 765
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/29/2012 5:05:45 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		The Big Picture #13e: Fine-tuning Pilot Training Practices (Carrier-based Naval Strike)

USN Carrier-based Naval Attack pilot training: The training process described here applies specifically for training of US naval carrier attack pilots – dive bombing and torpedo.

At this time, carrier dive bomber and torpedo pilots are being handled as two separate branches. The current training paths of bomber and torpedo pilots for carrier-based air squadrons described below are completely separate from each other. No cross-training between the two currently exists.

Phase #1 (primary) training for carrier-based naval attack bombing pilots consists of specific skill training in either a naval bombing (NavB) or naval torpedo (NavT) pilot skill. This phase is the entry point for all “rookie” replacement pilots being trained for employment as pilots in US carrier dive bombing or torpedo squadrons. Phase #1 of pilot training LBA naval attack bombing has been set as the minimum training level required for all pilots assigned to fly in any US fleet carrier naval attack squadron.

As much as possible, all Phase #1 training for carrier-based naval attack pilots is performed in dedicated training squadrons specialized for either full-time (100%) naval bombing (NavB) or naval torpedo (NavT) skill training. All training squadrons being used for Phase #1 carrier-based naval attack include squadrons based aboard US CVE’s – it should be noted this practice is temporary and can only be employed while CVE air squadrons are available for training purposes. Once CVE’s are needed for use in front-line operations, the CVE squadrons become unavailable for dedicated pilot training and another solution to accomplish carrier-based naval attack pilot training will have to be formulated.

Pilots in these training squadrons remain until they reach a 70+ NavB or NavT skill rating. Pilots reaching a 70 skill rating are rotated out of the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool, vacancies in the training squadron then filled with new “rookie” pilots from the replacement pool.

Pilots completing Phase #1 carrier naval attack training remain in the Reserve pilot pool until transfer to either a front-line naval attack squadron, or transferred into another dedicated pilot training squadron set up for Phase #2 LBA naval attack training.

Phase #2 (advanced) training for carrier-based naval attack pilots is common to both dive bombing and torpedo bomber pilots, this phase consisting of skill training for Naval Search (NavS). – this level of training intended for pilots already having a 70+ NavB or NavT skill rating (completion of Phase #1 carrier-based naval attack training or equivalent). The intent of Phase #2 pilot training is maximizing pilot experience and defensive (Defn) ratings as well as naval search skills for ship target acquisition.

Phase #2 training for carrier-based naval attack is designed to be done either in a dedicated rear-area (CVE) training squadron, or in front-line squadrons aboard a CV, CVL or CVE. It is anticipated that most or all Phase #2 pilot training for carrier naval attack will move away from dedicated rear-area training squadrons and into front-line CV, CVL or CVE squadrons (during time intervals between combat operations).

Pilots completing Phase #2 carrier pilot training in dedicated training squadrons are rotated from the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool once they reach a 70+ naval search (NavS) skill rating. Once in the Reserve pool, these pilots are available for assignment to front-line CV and CVL dive bomber and torpedo squadrons, also squadrons aboard CVE that are assigned to front-line combat operations.


< Message edited by wneumann -- 9/29/2012 5:07:08 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 766
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/30/2012 6:17:48 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/25/43

Japanese Home Islands: Not surprisingly, Pillager is working to bring the “Happy Time” near the Tsushima Straits to a screeching halt. US sub Silversides attacked by Japanese surface ASW, also by Ki-30 Ann air patrol. SS Silversides also intercepts a small Jap transport TF. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Fukue-jima at 100,57 (NW of Nakasaki/Sasebo)

Japanese Ships
DD Harukaze
DD Yuzuki

Allied Ships
SS Silversides, hits 2 (system damage 11, float damage 2, returning to base for repair at normal speed)

SS Silversides is located by DD Harukaze
DD Yuzuki attacking submerged sub ....
DD Harukaze fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Yuzuki attacking submerged sub ....
DD Yuzuki is out of ASW ammo
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Fukue-jima at 100,57

Japanese Ships
xAKL Kensho Maru
SC CHa-46

Allied Ships
SS Silversides

Captain of SS Silversides elects not to launch torpedoes at this target
SC CHa-46 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Japanese naval air patrols active in other locations near Kyushu. Ki-49 Helen air patrols attacked SS Finback SW of Kyushu, SS Tautog also attacked SE of Kyushu. Given the number of contacts and attacks on Japanese shipping, plus the relatively strong response by Japanese surface and air ASW in this sea area, I may have found a major transit route for Jap transport shipping in the sea area near and W of the Tsushima Straits.


Central Pacific: US sub patrol reports intercepts Jap transport TF north of the Marshalls. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Eniwetok at 128,106 (NE of Eniwetok)

Japanese Ships
xAK Jinshu Maru (one dud torpedo hit)
SC CHa-22
xAK Izumo Maru
xAK Taian Maru
SC CHa-41

Allied Ships
SS Hake

SS Hake launches 2 torpedoes at xAK Jinshu Maru
Hake diving deep ....
SC CHa-41 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Another US sub patrol contact and attack on a different Japanese transport TF off Ponape. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Ponape at 115,115 (due W of Ponape)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Matsutan Maru, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage (sunk)
xAKL Shinsoku Maru
xAKL Kashi Maru
xAKL Sasago Maru
PB Katsuragisan Maru

Allied Ships
SS Scamp

SS Scamp launches 2 torpedoes at xAKL Matsutan Maru
Scamp diving deep ....
PB Katsuragisan Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sigint entry for 2/24 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Majuro. Detected status of Majuro shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/24 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: AK Yamakaze Maru reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 97,123 near Madang, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 12 Japanese ships anchored in port (-3 from last report), 2 Jap TF in harbor, 59 aircraft (41 fighters, 28 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: No reported ground combat at Chungking. Overall situation unchanged.

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 767
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 9/30/2012 6:25:31 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		The Big Picture #13f: Fine-tuning Pilot Training Practices (LBA Patrol Squadrons)

LBA Patrol Squadron pilot training: The training process described here is specific for training pilots in LBA patrol and floatplane squadrons to be mainly employed in naval search and/or ASW operations. The training process described here is common to all nationalities and service branches where LBA patrol aircraft or floatplane squadrons are being operated. Allied nationalities and service branches operating these squadrons include US Navy and RAF; Australian, New Zealand, Canadian and Dutch Air Forces. It should be noted that pilots from the LBA patrol training process will also be employed in floatplane air units stationed aboard Allied BB and cruisers.

The general path of training for LBA patrol squadron pilots is completed in two steps.

Phase #1 (primary) training for LBA patrol squadron pilots consists of specific skill training for naval search (NavS) pilot skill. This phase is the entry point for all “rookie” replacement pilots being trained for employment in LBA patrol or floatplane squadrons. Phase #1 of LBA patrol training has been set as the minimum training level required for all pilots assigned to fly in any front-line floatplane or LBA patrol squadron.

As much as possible, all Phase #1 LBA patrol training is performed in dedicated rear-area training squadrons specialized for full-time (100%) training in naval search (NavS) pilot skill. Pilots in these training squadrons remain until they reach a 70+ NavS skill rating. Pilots reaching a 70 NavS skill rating are rotated out of the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool, vacancies in the training squadron then filled with new “rookie” pilots from the replacement pool.

Pilots completing Phase #1 LBA patrol training remain in the Reserve pilot pool until transfer to either a front-line patrol or floatplane squadron, or transferred into another dedicated pilot training squadron set up for Phase #2 LBA patrol training.

Phase #2 (advanced) training for LBA patrol pilots can be performed either in a dedicated rear-area training squadron or with a front-line air squadron, training in this phase for ASW pilot skill. Pilots entering Phase #2 training for LBA patrol will already have a 70+ NavS skill rating (completion of Phase #1 LBA search training or equivalent). The intent of Phase #2 pilot training is maximizing pilot experience and defensive (Defn) ratings in addition to ASW skills.

Pilots completing Phase #2 LBA patrol training in dedicated training squadrons are rotated from the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool once they reach a 70+ naval search (NavS) skill rating. Once in the Reserve pool, these pilots are available for assignment to front-line floatplane or LBA patrol squadrons.

Additional skill training for LBA naval search pilots is done in many front-line LBA patrol squadrons, in most cases this additional training is for the recon mission (Recn). It should be noted that pilots in many LBA recon squadrons are being cross-trained for naval search (NavS).

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 768
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/2/2012 4:04:41 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/26/43

Japanese Home Islands: US sub patrol intercepts small Jap transport off Tokara Retto. SS Herring also attacked by Ki-49 Helen air patrol, no hits or damage. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Amami Oshima at 98,63 (NE of Amami Oshima)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Boko Maru, Shell hits 5, on fire

Allied Ships
SS Herring

xAKL Boko Maru is sighted by SS Herring
SS Herring attacking on the surface
SS Herring low on gun ammo, Johnson, R.W. breaks off surface engagement and submerges

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

US sub Silversides spots what is likely a Jap surface ASW TF at hex location 98, 61 west of Kagoshima. No reported combat between SS Silversides and the Jap TF.


Formosa Strait: US sub Grouper on patrol in the straits reporting attack by a Ki-48 Lily air patrol, no reported hits or damage on SS Grouper. Combat events report entry for 2/25 indicates the Jap plane was hit in the action.


South Pacific: Operations report entry for 2/25 indicates Dutch submarine O-23 in patrol area NW of Noumea spotted with Jap torpedo bomber at hex location 111, 158. It is known that Pillager is operating G4M Betties from Noumea - however, this report could also indicate KB is in or approaching this sea area for a possible sortie against Auckland or Suva.

A KB sortie not impossible given Pillager knows the US main carrier force is in the Indian Ocean returning from Palembang. The possibility of Pillager sending out KB immediately after a US carrier strike on Palembang (as KB has the Pacific entirely to itself) was recognized and accounted for in planning for the Palembang operation – this part of the planning involved measures intended to ensure the KB finds little or nothing in the event Pillager sends it out after the Palembang strike. To a great extent, the planned measures to deal with a possible KB sortie in this particular situation are little different than what was required during much of 1942.

If the O-23’s sighting is found to be a KB sortie, the projected path of KB will take it into patrol areas of other US subs to the SE of O-23’s position (just beyond Noumea) as well as into the patrol arcs of Allied naval search planes N of New Zealand and to the W and SW of Suva.


Sigint entry for 2/25 reports heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Rabaul. Detected status of Rabaul shows (as expected) unidentified Jap aircraft based there, also ship(s) anchored in port. No other visible Japanese forces or activity.

Another Sigint entry for 2/25 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Milne Bay. No visible Japanese forces or activity. Detected airfield size at Milne Bay is 3(5), port size 4(3) – sizes of these facilities noteworthy as Pillager appears to be giving at least equal emphasis to expanding both Port Moresby and Milne Bay. Three Jap LCU’s are known to be in Milne Bay from available intelligence data – including 1 JNAF Co, Kure 3 SNLF and 13 Naval Construction Bn.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/25 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 12 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Manus
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Australia: Transport convoy MX-13 (3 ships) from Aden arrived this game turn. Cargo arriving aboard the convoy includes Australian 2/3 AIF Pioneer Bn and 5900 supply.

A small fuel transport convoy (2 TK) with 16K fuel arrived this game turn at an undisclosed port in Western Australia from Capetown. This port has been prepared as an alternate replenishment site for Allied naval sorties into the eastern Indian Ocean area.


DEI: Detected status of Palembang is showing port damage at Palembang is fully repaired, oil production 537(364).


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 12 Japanese ships anchored in port, 3 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 58 aircraft (38 fighters, 20 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


India: Operations report entries for 2/25 report sighting of unidentified Jap submarine S of Colombo (hex position 27, 49) by Catalina naval search planes.


China: No reported ground combat at Chungking. Overall situation unchanged.

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 769
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/2/2012 4:08:24 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		The Big Picture #13g: Fine-tuning Pilot Training Practices (LBA Recon)

LBA Recon pilot training: The training process described here applies specifically for training pilots in LBA recon squadrons. This process is common for all nationalities and service branches where LBA recon squadrons are being operated.

The path of training for LBA recon pilots consists of one step, this step specific training for recon (Recn) pilot skill. This single training phase is the entry point for all “rookie” replacement pilots being prepared for employment in LBA recon squadrons.

As much as possible, this one step of LBA recon training is performed in dedicated rear-area training squadrons specialized for full-time (100%) training in recon (Recn) pilot skill. Pilots in these training squadrons remain until they reach a 70+ Recn skill rating. Pilots reaching a 70 Recn skill rating are rotated out of the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool, vacancies in the training squadron then filled with new “rookie” pilots from the replacement pool.

Pilots completing LBA recon training remain in the Reserve pilot pool until transfer to a front-line recon squadron.

Additional skill training for LBA recon pilots is being done in many front-line recon squadrons, in nearly all cases this additional training is naval search (NavS). It should be noted that cross-training of pilots in many LBA patrol squadrons is for recon (Recn).

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 770
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/3/2012 2:20:18 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/27/43

US West Coast: British CV Victorious now based on the US west coast after entering the game at Panama as a reinforcement. A British surface TF including BB Prince of Wales, 3 CA, 4 CL is also on the US west coast – dispatched to the mainland US from Australia to meet the carrier. After CV Victorious completes a scheduled 3/43 ship update, the carrier plus ships from the British surface TF will combine to form a British air combat TF with US destroyers attached as AA/ASW escorts.

Plans are for the British carrier TF to operate in the Pacific with the US main carrier force after its return to the Pacific theatres. CV Victorious enters the game with a withdrawal date of 10/15/43 – my plans are to withdraw the carrier via the US west coast at that time. BB Prince of Wales and the cruisers then sent back to Australia or the Far East after CV Victorious’ scheduled withdrawal.

BB Prince of Wales and the seven British CA/CL sent to join CV Victorious are the best Royal Navy ships currently available for employment in a carrier TF.


Japanese Home Islands: US sub patrol intercepts and sinks Jap transport off Okinawa. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Okinoerabushima at 97,66

Japanese Ships
xAKL Nanka Maru, Shell hits 15, Torpedo hits 1, heavy fires, heavy damage

Allied Ships
SS Whale

SS Whale attacking on the surface

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Formosa Strait: US fleet sub Grouper hit and sunk in bombing attack by Ki-49 Helen air patrol north of Batan Is (hex position 86, 68).


North Pacific: Unidentified Japanese TF (6 ships) spotted by PBY Catalina naval search at hex location 144, 82 (NW of Midway). Jap task force is not visible on the game map but was reported moving E at 19 kts in a 2/26 Operations report entry. No information available on composition of the spotted Jap task force.

Current estimate is that the Jap TF in this contact is possibly moving toward Midway, it could also be moving eastward past Midway to its north. A group of three US subs outbound from Pearl Harbor to assigned patrol areas near Japan has been diverted to cover Midway. A small US supply transport TF just arriving at Midway this game turn from the mainland US has been ordered back to sea as a precautionary measure.


Central Pacific: Sigint report entry for 2/26 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Canton Is. Detected status of Canton Is shows unidentified Jap aircraft based there, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: No further contacts with Jap planes reported by Allied submarine patrols operating around Noumea – the contact reported by Dutch sub O-23 on 2/26 a probable G4M Betty on naval search from Noumea.

While the 2/26 contact is likely a false alarm, a possible move by the KB is not completely ruled out. The current situation is proving a good excuse for taking some measures to “tidy up” basing and movement of Allied ships located in the South Pacific theatre area and eastern Australia. There are a considerable number of Allied ships now based in these theatres being held in reserve for future amphibious and other operations – many of these ships include auxiliaries, various small escort/small craft, mine warfare ships and many small transports not suitable for long-range movement of cargo from the mainland US or Middle East. The measures being taken largely involve ensuring that those ships not actively involved in an operational task or currently required in a front-line area are kept in a secure rear-area location until needed - if they have not been “stashed” to the rear already.


Several entries in the 2/26 Combat Events report indicate Allied fighter CAP over Suva shot down a G3M Nell and a H6K4 Mavis – these planes likely to be operating either from Noumea, Luganville or Ndeni (known airfield size and LCU’s at these bases capable of operating these planes). I have three US Marine VMF squadrons (36 F4F) based at Suva, all three squadrons on continuous 30% CAP with occasional stand downs for resting pilots and/or recovering damaged planes. No Allied ships are currently based in Suva on a permanent basis, though Suva is being used as a refueling base for US S-class patrol subs operating in the surrounding sea areas. Light surface ASW and minesweeping ships are based near Suva (just outside the reach and view of Japanese LBA) and can be easily dispatched to Suva as needed.


Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/26 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Port Moresby
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 97,123 near Madang, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


DEI: Detected status of Palembang showing oil production 537(364). The initial estimate of 40% damage to Palembang’s oil facilities now appears to be accurate. One US sub patrol remains in the sea area near Palembang – a 2/26 Operations report entry indicating the sub was spotted this game turn. Pillager is no doubt more diligently flying naval search southward from the DEI if he had not been doing so already.

One desired effect of the US carrier strike on Palembang beyond the damage inflicted on Japanese oil production is causing Pillager to divert additional Japanese forces (particularly LBA) into the DEI from other theatres to cover oil production. Additional incentive for Pillager to divert Japanese forces to the DEI (in the form of more carrier strikes on oil production) can and will be considered if future intelligence reveals the DEI remains open to a relatively easy attack.

Some “fine tuning” on my part could make a subsequent Allied carrier attack on the DEI have a longer “hang time” and generate considerably more damage. A complete knockout of Palembang’s oil production (and perhaps more) with carrier air strikes would have been quite possible had ship endurance not been a factor.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 12 Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 72 aircraft (41 fighters, 31 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


India: Jap submarine spotted near Colombo on 2/26 attacked by British surface ASW. While the “lowly” British ML is not a particularly large or impressive ship, this action revealed it can drop a lot of depth charges. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Colombo at 27,49 (S of Colombo)

Japanese Ships
SS I-159

Allied Ships
ML No. 193
ML No. 187
ML No. 191

SS I-159 launches 2 torpedoes at ML No. 193
I-159 diving deep ....
ML No. 191 attacking submerged sub ....
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


China: Japanese renew ground assault on Chungking. From the Allied point of view Chungking is a nice battle of attrition, Japanese attrition in terms of LCU elements and supply is now an equal if not greater objective than keeping China in the game.

The ground battle at Chungking is costing nothing for the Allies - no supply cost as there is no supply in Chungking, all the Chinese LCU in Chungking are non-transferrable and had nowhere to go anyway (per our house rules). All transferrable Chinese LCU and air squadrons that did not have a withdrawal date are rebuilding in India as the “free Chinese” forces. Due to lack of supply, Chinese forces in Chungking have no longer been able to draw replacements since late 1942 – all available Chinese replacement LCU elements, planes and pilots going to the “free Chinese” forces in India. The longer Chungking holds out the more Chinese replacements go into the pools for forces in India. At this point, practically anything of value I could legitimately remove from China has already left.

On the Japanese side, the ground battle at Chungking is likely consuming a significant if not considerable amount of supply (between the supply cost of ground attacks plus the supply cost of recovering disrupted elements in Japanese LCU from said ground attacks). To a lesser extent, destroyed Japanese LCU elements, artillery and vehicles provides some diversion for the output of Japanese industry on the home front.

The battle of Chungking is easily expected to be an eventual Japanese victory on the ground. What’s more significant from the Allied point of view is the Japanese cost to accomplish that victory plus the time delay created for any plans Pillager has for using Japanese ground and air forces he expects to transfer from China for use in other theatres.

The earlier Allied air transport effort to China from Ledo was quickly found to be hopelessly inadequate to maintain adequate supply in China given the situation existing in this PBEM, however, it proved quite sufficient for evacuating surviving cadres of transferrable Chinese LCU’s to India (once these LCU were depleted in combat to the point they no longer had any value to the Allied defense within China). This “reverse airlift” plus a modest PP cost was the birth of the “free Chinese” army and air force.

AAR of this game turn’s action at Chungking follows.

3+ detected Japanese LCU in hexes adjacent to Chungking. Pillager appears to be dispatching additional Jap LCU to reinforce the Chungking attack.

** below indicates Japanese LCU reinforcements arriving this game turn. (no new arrivals)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chungking (76,45)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 264136 troops, 2585 guns, 1356 vehicles, Assault Value = 8802
Defending force 554077 troops, 3222 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 18434
Japanese adjusted assault: 2810
Allied adjusted defense: 16521

Japanese assault odds: 1 to 5 (fort level 4)

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), forts(+), leaders(+), experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker: disruption(-)

Japanese ground losses:
29071 casualties reported
Squads: 142 destroyed, 2748 disabled
Non Combat: 3 destroyed, 140 disabled
Engineers: 2 destroyed, 301 disabled
Guns lost 172 (3 destroyed, 169 disabled)
Vehicles lost 70 (8 destroyed, 62 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
21744 casualties reported
Squads: 301 destroyed, 2182 disabled
Non Combat: 67 destroyed, 1004 disabled
Engineers: 22 destroyed, 97 disabled
Guns lost 353 (149 destroyed, 204 disabled)
Units destroyed 6

Assaulting units:
116th Division
59th Infantry Brigade
15th Division
36th Division
39th Division
32nd Division
70th Division
13th Division
26th Division
4th Ind.Mixed Brigade
110th Division
1st Ind.Mixed Brigade
37th Division
40th Division
35th Division
3rd Tank Division
17th Division
34th Division
58th Division
23rd Ind.Mixed Brigade
7th Ind.Mixed Brigade
104th Division
22nd Division
41st Division
8th Armored Car Co
9th Ind.Mixed Brigade
38th Division
12th Army
1st Mortar Battalion
North China Area Army
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
23rd Army
2nd Mortar Battalion
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
11th Army
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
21st Mortar Battalion
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
26th Chinese Corps
20th Chinese Corps
76th Chinese Corps
97th Chinese Corps
3rd Prov Chinese Corps
16th Chinese Corps
11th Chinese Corps
5th Chinese Cavalry Corps
50th Chinese Corps
38th Chinese Corps
31st Chinese Corps
94th Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
14th Chinese Corps
9th Chinese Corps
51st Chinese Corps
259th Brigade
100th Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
39th Chinese Corps
10th Chinese Corps
84th Chinese Corps
9th Separate Brigade
74th Chinese Corps
41st Chinese Corps
58th Chinese Corps
90th Chinese Corps
59th Chinese Corps
72nd Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
19th Chinese Corps
21st Chinese Corps
92nd Chinese Corps
30th Chinese Corps
87th Chinese Corps
55th Chinese Corps
78th Chinese Corps
7th New Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Cavalry Corps
69th Chinese Corps
120th Red Chinese Division
18th Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Cavalry Corps
61st Chinese Corps
22nd Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Corps
83rd Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
99th Chinese Corps
57th Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
13th Chinese Corps
85th Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
1st Chinese Corps
115th Red Chinese Division
9th Prov Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Cavalry Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
4th Chinese Corps
23rd Chinese Corps
60th Chinese Corps
56th Chinese Corps
89th Chinese Corps
70th Chinese Corps
47th Chinese Corps
63rd Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
91st Chinese Corps
25th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
5th New Chinese Corps
96th Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
42nd Chinese Corps
77th Chinese Corps
46th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
37th Chinese Corps
81st Chinese Corps
12th Chinese Corps
36th Chinese Corps
48th Chinese Corps
65th Chinese Corps
35th Chinese Corps
1st New Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps
3rd Chinese Cavalry Corps
71st Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
27th Chinese Corps
7th Chinese Corps
17th Chinese Corps
129th Red Chinese Division
53rd Chinese Corps
2nd Construction Regiment
7th Artillery Regiment
4th War Area
7th Construction Regiment
2nd War Area
1st Chinese Base Force
13th Group Army
98th Chinese Corps
18th Chinese Base Force
23rd Group Army
China Command
41st AA Regiment
16th Construction Regiment
9th Group Army
16th Chinese Base Force
10th Construction Regiment
12th Group Army
6th War Area
5th Construction Regiment
43rd Chinese Corps
3rd Heavy Mortar Regiment
6th Construction Regiment
15th Group Army
13th Construction Regiment
14th Group Army
19th Group Army
15th Chinese Base Force
18th Group Army
1st Artillery Regiment
12th Construction Regiment
38th Group Army
5th War Area
21st Group Army
57th AT Gun Regiment
3rd Construction Regiment
49th AA Regiment
32nd Group Army
1st Group Army
13th Chinese Base Force
11th Group Army
1st War Area
Lusu War Area
8th Construction Regiment
3rd Group Army
33rd Group Army
11th Construction Regiment
1st Construction Regiment
CAF HQ
34th Group Army
24th Group Army
26th Group Army
3rd War Area
20th Artillery Regiment
7th Chinese Base Force
27th Group Army
Central Reserve
10th Chinese Base Force
2nd Chinese Base Force
14th Construction Regiment
8th Group Army
29th Group Army
37th Group Army
4th Chinese Base Force
11th Chinese Base Force
17th Chinese Base Force
34th Chinese Corps
4th Heavy Mortar Regiment
9th Chinese Base Force
5th Group Army
39th Group Army
7th Group Army
4th Group Army
Jingcha War Area
20th Group Army
17th Construction Regiment
17th Group Army
Red Chinese Army
6th Chinese Base Force
9th War Area
31st Group Army
6th Group Army
2nd Group Army
22nd Group Army
25th Group Army
36th Group Army
20th Chinese Base Force
40th Chinese Corps
7th War Area
56th AT Gun Regiment

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


< Message edited by wneumann -- 10/3/2012 2:27:40 AM >

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 771
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/3/2012 2:22:16 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		The Big Picture #13h: Fine-tuning Pilot Training Practices (Air Transport)

This post is last in the series discussing current Allied pilot training practices.

Air Transport pilot training: The training process described here applies specifically for training air transport pilots, this process common for all nationalities and service branches operating transport air squadrons.

The path of training transport pilots consists of one step, this step specific training for the air transport (Tran) pilot skill. This single training phase is the entry point for all “rookie” replacement pilots being prepared for employment in transport air squadrons.

Air transport pilot training can be performed in either a dedicated rear-area training squadron specialized for full-time (100%) training for air transport (Tran) pilot skill, or in a front-line transport air squadron.

Pilots in dedicated air transport training squadrons remain until they reach a 70+ Tran skill rating. Pilots reaching a 70 skill rating are rotated out of the training squadron to the Reserve pilot pool, vacancies in the training squadron then filled with new “rookie” pilots from the replacement pool. Pilots completing air transport training in a dedicated training squadron remain in the Reserve pilot pool until transfer to a front-line transport air squadron.

At this time, no plans for additional skill training of air transport pilots are under active consideration.

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 772
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/4/2012 1:04:34 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/28/43

Japanese Home Islands: US sub patrol intercepts and Jap transport W of Kyushu. AAR follows.

SS Finback also spots another unidentified Jap TF (4 ships, one PB) at hex location 98, 57 south of Saishu To – no reported combat. This Japanese TF possibly surface ASW.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Fukue-jima at 99,59 (SW of Fukue-jima)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Muroran Maru

Allied Ships
SS Finback

xAKL Muroran Maru is sighted by SS Finback
Captain of SS Finback elects not to launch torpedoes at this target

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Another US sub patrol operating between Okinawa and Kyushu attacks a small Japanese transport. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Amami Oshima at 98,63 (N of Amami Oshima)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Toten Maru, Shell hits 1

Allied Ships
SS Herring

SS Herring attacking on the surface
SS Herring low on gun ammo, Johnson, R.W. breaks off surface engagement and submerges.
(Ship display for SS Herring indicates the sub has exhausted its 3”/50 gun ammunition but still carries an ample load of torpedoes)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


North Pacific: No further contact with unidentified Jap TF spotted NW of Midway on 2/27. PBY naval search planes continue flights from both Midway Is and Aleutian air bases.


US West Coast: US 7th Infantry Division enters the game with reinforcements for this game turn. PP was expended to immediately transfer this LCU from West Coast restricted command for employment in the Central Pacific theatre area.


South Pacific: Sigint entry for 2/27 reports intercepted radio signals from an unidentified Jap submarine detected NE of Savaii (hex location 148, 158). No information on the sub’s movement available though it appears the sub may be intended to prowl around Samoa to observe or intercept Allied ship activity.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/27 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: xAK Yamafuku Maru reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Burma: USAAF and RAF Liberators bomb Japanese occupied oil facilities at Magwe. AAR’s follow. Detected status of Magwe shows oil production 290(11), 3 Jap LCU’s, airfield size 3(7), unidentified Japanese planes present in the base. Current available intelligence data has four Jap LCU located in Magwe rather than the three shown in the base’s detected status – these include 33rd Infantry Division/A sub-unit, 9 Armored Car Co, 8 & 94 JAAF AF Bns. It is possible the damage shown to oil facilities from the bombing raid is understated in the detected status of Magwe after the bombing raid.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid spotted at 30 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Allied aircraft
Liberator II x 28
B-24D Liberator x 12

No Allied losses

Oil hits 42

Aircraft Attacking:
16 x Liberator II bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x Liberator II bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid spotted at 13 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 24

No Allied losses

Oil hits 33

Aircraft Attacking:
12 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 12 Japanese ships anchored in port, 1 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 73 aircraft (42 fighters, 31 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Chungking sector quiet, no reported combat activity.


< Message edited by wneumann -- 10/4/2012 1:06:22 AM >

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 773
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/4/2012 11:22:06 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 3/01/43

Japanese Home Islands: US sub Finback on patrol W of Kyushu pursued by Jap surface ASW. AAR’s follow. The Jap ASW task force in the two AAR’s below is likely the unidentified Jap TF spotted by SS Finback on 2/28 near Saishu To. It should be noted the Jap ASW task force followed the movement of SS Finback, both the AAR below involving the same Jap surface ASW TF (indicated by **). SS Finback also attacked by Ki-49 Helen air patrol.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Saishu To at 98,57 (S of Saishu To, same hex location where SS Finback detected this TF on 2/28)

Japanese Ships
DD Yuzuki
DD Urakaze **
DD Harukaze **

Allied Ships
SS Finback

SS Finback is located by DD Yuzuki
DD Harukaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Koshiki-jima Retto at 100,60 (due W of Kagoshima)

Japanese Ships
DD Sazanami
DD Urakaze **
DD Harukaze **

Allied Ships
SS Finback

SS Finback is located by DD Sazanami
Finback diving deep ....
DD Harukaze attacking submerged sub ....
DD Harukaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


3/43 Ship Upgrades: This upgrade includes a considerable number of ships, mainly a variety of auxiliaries, small mine warfare and ASW ships, and some transports. The most noteworthy upgrades in 3/43 involve a rather useful conversion of US AP’s to APA, also some British xAP to LSI(L). CV Victorious is also entering 3/43 ship upgrade before starting operational service in the Pacific theatres until its scheduled withdrawal date in 10/43. Many of these upgrades are being started immediately as utilization of shipyard capacity (especially US West Coast) is very low at this time.

A conversion of British Pacific L Class xAK to xAP is currently available. 84 ships of this class are now in the game - nearly all of them operating in transport convoys between the mainland US and Australia or the South Pacific. At this time all the ships in this class are still operating as xAK’s to keep maximum cargo capacity available in the transport convoys. However, plans are in effect to convert an unspecified number of British Pacific L Class xAK to the xAP configuration for use in amphibious operations. Exact number of be converted is still being evaluated. This is a medium-to-small xAK class (3900 cargo capacity), the xAP configuration has 1000 troop and 1200 cargo capacity. Estimated shipyard time required for conversion is 21 days. It’s likely that at least some if not most ships in this class will be retained in the xAK role, the question now being considered is how many converted xAP from this class will be wanted or needed for use in amphibious ops.

A previously available conversion of some Allied xAKL to small xAP for planned use in amphibious operations has already been completed. The British Pacific L Class xAK conversion now available will supplement this. Planning now underway for amphibious operations across all theatres includes maximizing the total number and available cargo capacity of amphibious-capable ships, particularly smaller xAP that can be loaded and unloaded quickly. Many smaller xAP produced in these conversions are intended for use as second-wave ships in amphibious assaults.


Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 2/28 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Wake Is. Detected status of Wake Is shows unidentified Jap planes based there, no other visible Japanese forces or activity. Detected port size at Wake is 1(0), airfield size 3(0) – airfield fully expanded to maximum size. Available intelligence data has two Jap LCU located on Wake Is – these identified as Maizuru 2 SNLF, 14 JNAF AF Unit.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 2/28 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Port Moresby
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 6 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Port Moresby
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 97,123 near Madang, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Australia: Unidentified Jap submarine detected off Perth. Allied surface ASW dispatched to engage the Jap sub.


Southeast Asia: Sigint entry for 2/28 reports Jap 4 Independent Heavy Artillery Bn now located in Singapore, this LCU transferred here from Kwantung Army. Previous reported location of 4 Artillery Bn was Port Arthur.


Burma: Second wave bombing attack of oil facilities in Magwe launched by USAAF and RAF Liberators. Detected status of Magwe shows oil production 118(183), 18 Jap aircraft (17 fighters). Bombing squadrons being stood down to rest pilots and recover damaged planes. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 28 NM, estimated altitude 15,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3 Zero x 11
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 10

Allied aircraft
Liberator II x 28
B-24D Liberator x 36

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses (8 bombers reported damaged, none lost)
Liberator II: 6 damaged
B-24D Liberator: 3 damaged

Oil hits 63

Aircraft Attacking:
16 x Liberator II bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x Liberator II bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3 Zero (3 airborne, 8 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 9 minutes
47th I.F.Chutai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (1 airborne, 2 on standby, 7 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 35 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 12 Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 83 aircraft (52 fighters, 31 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Chungking sector quiet, no reported combat activity.

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 774
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/6/2012 5:24:20 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 3/02/43

Japanese Home Islands: US sub patrol intercepts Jap transport in the East China Sea. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Amami Oshima at 98,62 (NW of Amami Oshima)

Japanese Ships
xAK Yamagata Maru (dud torpedo hit)

Allied Ships
SS Herring

xAK Yamagata Maru is sighted by SS Herring
SS Herring launches 2 torpedoes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 3/01 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 97,123 near Madang, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Manus
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 97,123 near Madang, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 12 Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 61 aircraft (40 fighters, 21 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Chungking sector quiet, no reported combat activity.

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 775
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/6/2012 4:36:40 PM   
johnjohn

 

Posts: 186
Joined: 9/18/2010
From: Arvada, CO
Status: offline 		John piping up. Where was all this good advice when I needed it? LOL I concur with the previous comments. This is thorough analysis and approach for training. I heartily recommend it. Here is why.

Since I am a first timer noob working against the AI, I did not start with any preconceived notions of how to handle this feature. In most cases I decided that in 41/42 front line ops would require a level 50/55 exp group or squadron. For the carriers I went with 70, although I needed to train at all times when not on patrol to achieve that. Patrols were limited at first, but I encountered the enemy the end of January at Noumea when I was trying to reinforce the base before the Jap expansion arrived. I got there first, but four enemy carriers showed up a day later. I had four US carriers (the whole shooting match at that point) in two 2CV task forces, one at Noumea and one just off Noumea. I attacked with everything I had, hit three carriers and bailed out. Lexington was sunk, the air group being saved with the remnants flying to Noumea. (Eventually they were transferred back to pearl and the CAG refitted and reassigned after training up. I now rotate an entire CAG through PH, putting the better trained group on the carrier.) I unleashed my cruisers and some DDs and they ran down the cripples, sinking all three the next day. I lucked out since all the carriers had whatever exp they started with as well as the original aircraft which has limited abilities. This victory enabled me to pull the carriers back, infuse more troops into the South Pacific, and to hold the New Cal, Suva, Somoa, PH line. I also held onto Canton Island.

As to training, I fell into one bad habit. I became an advocate of gaining exp through combat. The fact is, exp goes up quickly in combat ops. I have one fighter sqd in India/Burma with over 250 kills and 18 pilots 80+. (this is May 1944). That is a dumb idea. Although I took all permanently assigned squadrons and applied option #2 discussed above for training, I still routinely put operating squadrons into combat to better level them up. That gets good pilots killed before they become great pilots. Better to train them up and then insert them into combat situations. Trained pilots perform much better, and great pilots (70+) perform much better than good pilots (60-69). Adequate pilots in combat (50-59) either level up quickly or die. Better to train those guys further up the ladder. Don't even think of putting anyone under 50 in anything but recon or transport, and even then it is better to train them.

I am one of the few Allied guys to use TRACOM regularly. I have about 50 80+ guys there now, but most of them were assigned in late 43 and early 44. As said previously, they just do not exist in high numbers before that. I reluctantly took the best Navy guys in late 42 and moved them there. What I get is trained pilots with avg exp of 35, most higher than that in their speciality. I then put them into training squadrons and start the ladder upwards toward 70. Sometimes I will transfer them out when they reach 55, especially in Indian and Chinese sqds where the regular guys are worse than that. Keep in mind, it takes two years to train a 40 to 70, so this is not a quick job. In combat that same pilot could reach 70 in a few months, if he survives (which he probably won't do). Although I have about 50 80+ guys in TRACOM, I have at least that many in combat squadrons at present. The difference is that I am graduating pilots with avg exp of 35 rather than 21 which is what it was in 42. 35 ain't great, but it is much better than 21. BTW--those 35 guys train up to 55 fairly quickly, about 8 months. So every quarter right now I am able to put 300 pilots into the general reserve with an avg exp of 55. I have found 55 is survivable in the combat squadrons where those same pilots quickly move up the ladder (LBA only) On the carriers I never allow anyone under 70 unless constrained by availability. (Carriers means CV and CVL--not CVE which I use to train up Naval aviators.)

All this being my first experience, I highly recommend the advice previously given here (and wish I had it in this form when I was struggling in the early years).

John

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 776
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/6/2012 5:04:37 PM   
johnjohn

 

Posts: 186
Joined: 9/18/2010
From: Arvada, CO
Status: offline 		John part 2. My experience with trained pilots is like this:

Superb (80+) These pilots are the class of the elite. They routinely kill lessor flyers and deserve to be in your best equipment.
Great (70-79) These pilots are the backbone of any squadron. I find that they routinely end up with more kills than those at any other level. My highest killers are 70+ and most are 70s
Good (60-69) It is a push at this level. Some do well, others don't. Squadrons of mostly 60s are merely average in combat, suffering many more losses than 70+ outfits.
Average (50s) These guys are cannon fodder, although some shoot well. A key here is to work on defensive ability. A lot of 50s are good Air to Air guys, but can't defend themselves.
Poor (40s) TRAIN UP. These guys do not perform well in any setting, although ASW, Recon, and Transportation are safe enough occupations for them.
Trainees >40 TRAIN, TRAIN, TRAIN. Move the group back to a safe area (if any) and train. You cannot do anything with pilots this poor. That includes Transportation squadrons.

On specializing, I endorse it. It is much better to train squadrons in certain specialities as previously discussed. I train all carrier aircraft to naval attack. Killing the enemy carriers is job one, two, and three. Land attacks can be worked on after the naval rating is through the roof. For Land Based Aircraft, I use different bomber groups to hit cities and airbases. I use others to hit troops and naval attack. Land based fighters are almost all on escort, although some groups have crosstrained to attack troops. I set fighter groups to 100% train or 50% to escort. For carriers I set the groups based on mission. Like WNeumann, I pump up the CAP when enemy carriers are on the menu. Remember (the naval historian in me) this is pacific war experience. Keeping your carriers operational while denying the same to the enemy is the first key to victory. So don't send all the fighters to escort your attack force. I like the 70% recommendation. Specialization allows you more flexibility in fighting the campaigns. That specialization helps you win, so don't be afraid to use it. (This is especially true for all ASW assignments. Try to put some experienced guys in ASW groups. Inexperienced guys may find stuff, but they will never attack it sucessfully.)

John

(in reply to johnjohn)
Post #: 777
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/6/2012 8:59:47 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		johnjohn,

Welcome back.

quote:

Where was all this good advice when I needed it?

Sometimes it takes awhile to sit down and write this all up.

quote:

John part 2.

What I'm starting to find with the output of my pilot training process - even after completing two phases of pilot training, there are quite a few pilots with experience ratings that didn't get out of the 40's or very much above 50. Many of them fighter pilots trained to 70 skill levels in air-to-air, strafing and defensive but still with a low experience rating after all that training. What could make the 45-50 or so experience levels less of a concern from the Allied side is that Japanese pilot training can't be much better if it's any better at all. That being true... there's the possibility of many of rookie vs rookie aerial dogfights later in the campaign.

It looks as if low experience ratings (45-low 50s) of pilots coming out of training appear mainly with pilots that entered the training system from the "rookie pool". Pilots that began the game with "on map" air squadrons or in air squadrons that enter the game as reinforcements do somewhat better - most of these pilots train with experience ratings 55 and higher.

If this phenomena demonstrates anything, it's that rear-area training generates little increase in pilot experience. Pilots that enter and finish skill training with relatively low experience ratings will end up gaining much of their experience in actual operations or combat.

< Message edited by wneumann -- 10/6/2012 9:00:31 PM >

(in reply to johnjohn)
Post #: 778
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/6/2012 9:04:54 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 3/03/43

Japanese Home Islands: SS Finback still being shadowed by the same Jap surface ASW TF west of Kyushu (same Jap ASW TF as reported in AAR’s on 3/01). Latest AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Fukue-jima at 99,59 (WSW of Nagasaki/Sasebo)

Japanese Ships
DD Urakaze
DD Harukaze

Allied Ships
SS Finback

SS Finback launches 4 torpedoes at DD Urakaze
Finback diving deep ....
DD Harukaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

US sub Trout on patrol NW of Chichi Jima reports attack by Ki-49 Helen air patrol. No reported hits or damage.


Eastern US: Fast transport convoy EX-32 (28 ships) departs the Eastern US for Australia via Capetown. Cargo aboard the convoy includes two LCU (HQ US 6th Army & 181 USAAF Base Force), 138K supply and 45K fuel.


Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 3/02 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Ocean Is. Detected status of Ocean Is shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Sigint entry for 3/02 reports heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Rabaul. Detected status of Rabaul shows the expected Jap aircraft based there, also ships(s) in port. No other visible Japanese forces or activity.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 3/02 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 97,123 near Madang, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Australia: Transport convoy EX-26 (5 ships) arrived this game turn in Australia from Panama via Capetown. Cargo aboard the convoy includes US 158 Infantry Rgt and 13K supply. 158 Infantry Rgt entered the game at Cristobal as a reinforcement, a small convoy dispatched from the Eastern US to Panama to pick up the LCU and transport to Australia.


Burma: US patrol sub off Rangoon engaged by Jap surface ASW escorting a TK. It’s quite possible this Jap TF entered Rangoon, if so it would account for the third Jap TF detected in Rangoon this game turn by British air recon. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Rangoon at 53,56 (S of Rangoon)

Japanese Ships
PB Menado Maru
TK Kuremente Maru
DD Hakaze

Allied Ships
SS Peto

SS Peto is sighted by escort
Peto diving deep ....
DD Hakaze attacking submerged sub ....
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 12 Japanese ships anchored in port, 3 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 78 aircraft (48 fighters, 30 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.

Detected status of Magwe shows oil production 110(191). This will have to be finished off along with the refinery.


Indian Ocean: US main carrier force refueled without incident. Conclusions reached from a “post-mortem” evaluation of the carriers’ Palembang operation indicate the operation was a success overall but with at least one substantial flaw.

On the “plus” side – (1) Coordinated movement of the six carrier TF’s in the carrier force went smoothly, all TF’s moved as a unit and remained together through the entire operation. (2) Surprise (on at least a tactical level) was achieved. (3) Air strikes from the carriers launched cleanly and hit their planned targets. A respectable amount of damage was inflicted for the two days that air strikes were launched at a low cost in both planes and pilots.

On the “minus” side – (1) The operation was launched without adequate logistical support to refuel the carrier force, requiring the carrier force to break off its attack on Palembang 1-2 game turns earlier than originally intended. The carrier force had ample air ops remaining to launch at least one more wave of air strikes, however, launching additional strikes would have been at considerable risk of depleting fuel endurance on ships, placing the carrier force at jeopardy on its return trip. (2) The first wave of air strikes launched against Palembang targeted port facilities rather than oil production, this selection of targets actually resulting from a combination of the carrier forces’ final dash into Palembang from 18-19 hexes out at full movement speed plus AE game mechanics that were effect at that range. As stated in an earlier post, oil production in Palembang was not available at that point in time as the first air strike’s target selection, leaving port facilities as the “best available” target. This being one of those situations where you take what the game lets you – having worked in IT for a few years, bad-mouthing the programmers often gets you nowhere.

All this begs the question… why no Replenishment TF for the carriers? Two answers to that question. (1) I had AO’s scattered all over the map as fuel transports (many in both on and off-map transport convoys at sea and at various points in transit). There was simply no way to collect enough AO ships in one place without putting several months’ delay on the Palembang operation. (2) Even had AO for a replenishment TF been available in sufficient numbers, there was the question of sending them into basically an vast unexplored no-mans’ land. No Allied ships pass through the eastern Indian Ocean for months at a time – practically all Allied sea traffic between India/Middle East and Australia passing through Capetown and the off-map routes.

Is another strike on Palembang possible? Yes, with a few changes on the Allies' part. For now, I’m content with Pillager relaxing his vigilance in the DEI. It will take about a year and 360K supply for Palembang to fully recover the damage to its oil production. In the meantime, Pillager can choose between HI and the KB for where he wants to make up the fuel shortage.

At least by my reckoning... the Palembang operation was the first major offensive carrier operation I launched in either of the two PBEM's between myself and Pillager. The experience gained (or as much as I got) in this operation was necessary and valuable. The next milestone is a carrier vs carrier action. We never reached that point in our last (CHS) PBEM. That is coming....


China: Chungking sector quiet, no reported ground combat activity.


< Message edited by wneumann -- 10/6/2012 9:13:30 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 779
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 10/8/2012 2:25:35 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 3/04/43

Japanese Home Islands: SS Finback continues to be shadowed west of Kyushu by the Jap surface ASW TF reported in AAR’s on 3/01 and 3/03. SS Finback also attacked twice this game turn by Ki-49 Helen air patrols, no reported hits or damage. Latest AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Saishu To at 98,57 (SW of Saishu To)

Japanese Ships
DD Urakaze
DD Harukaze

Allied Ships
SS Finback

SS Finback is located by DD Urakaze
Finback diving deep ....
DD Harukaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

US sub patrol intercepts unescorted Jap transport SW of Kyushu. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Amami Oshima at 98,62 (N of Amami Oshima)

Japanese Ships
xAK Tokusima Maru (dud torpedo hit)

Allied Ships
SS Herring

xAK Tokusima Maru is sighted by SS Herring
SS Herring launches 2 torpedoes at xAK Tokusima Maru

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Central Pacific: One or more unidentified Jap TF(s) detected at Tabiteuea. No available information as to number of Jap TF(s), their composition or movement. Jap TF at Tabiteuea are visible on-map, there were no entries in any game turn reports indicating spotting/detection of these TF.

Several reports of Japanese float planes spotted flying over Midway. A small US supply/fuel transport TF unloading cargo at Midway probably spotted by the Jap planes.

Sigint entry for 3/03 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Wotje. Detected status of Wotje shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: US patrol sub returning to base for replenishment passes through Jap base in Lunga to investigate Coastwatcher sightings, torpedoes Jap landing barge. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack at Lunga (114,138)

Japanese Ships
LB-153, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage (reported sunk)

Allied Ships
SS Permit

LB-153 is sighted by SS Permit
SS Permit attacking LB-153 on the surface

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Daily coastwatcher entries from 3/03 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 107,126 near Rabaul, Speed 13, Moving Southeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 108,126 near Feni Islands, Speed 15, Moving East
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna


Burma: USAAF and RAF bombers return to Magwe, strike oil production facilities. Detected status of Magwe shows no additional damage to oil facilities from this game turn’s air strike, 17 aircraft (15 fighters), 4 Jap LCU’s. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid spotted at 40 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3 Zero x 36
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 12

Allied aircraft
Liberator II x 28
Wellington Ic x 16
B-24D Liberator x 36

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses (information shown below is actual)
Liberator II: 2 damaged
Wellington Ic: 2 destroyed, 2 damaged
B-24D Liberator: 2 damaged

Oil hits 41

Aircraft Attacking:
14 x Wellington Ic bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
16 x Liberator II bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x Liberator II bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 9000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3 Zero (3 airborne, 8 on standby, 25 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes
47th I.F.Chutai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (1 airborne, 3 on standby, 8 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


US sub Peto on patrol off Rangoon hit and heavily damaged in attack by Ki-49 Helen air patrol. Reported damage to SS Peto is system 40, float 43, engine 3. SS Peto is still moving at 11 kts and now returning to base for repair.

Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – 9 Japanese ships anchored in port (-3 from last report), 1 Jap TF in harbor (-2 from last report), 75 aircraft (43 fighters, 32 bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Chungking sector quiet, no reported ground combat activity.

(in reply to wneumann)
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