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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... - 11/3/2010 4:48:40 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/14/42

US West Coast: Transport convoy WB-3 engages Jap submarine as it departs San Francisco. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near San Francisco at 216,71

Japanese Ships
SS I-7

Allied Ships
DD Mugford
DD Walke
AS Pelias
AD Whitney
AD Dobbin
AV Tangier
AV Curtiss
AG Antares
AO Neosho
AO Ramapo
AE Mauna Loa
AP President Polk
AP President Monroe
AP Henry T. Allen
AP Wharton
AK Castor
AK Alchiba
AK Bellatrix
TK Gulfland
TK Esso Richmond
TK Halo
TK Mobilgas
xAK Idaho
xAK Coast Trader
xAK Coast Farmer
xAK West Ira
xAK Olopana
xAK Lillian Luckenbach
xAK Lewis Luckenbach
xAK Lena Luckenbach
xAK Steel Navigator
xAK American
DD Jarvis
DD Patterson
DD Henley
DD Ralph Talbot

SS I-7 is sighted by escort

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


Central Pacific: Sigint report entries for 2/14 indicate Jap radio transmissions intercepted from Wake Is, Jaluit and Tabitueua. One or more unidentified Jap TF(s) were detected this game turn at Tabitueua.

From detected information on base status for Tabitueua, it appears Pillager may be in the process of building airfield and port facilities on Tabitueua to the maximum allowed sizes (6 and 4 respectively).


DEI: Japanese attack continues on Ambon, now supported by Betty and Nell ground attack air strikes. Latest AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Ambon (76,109)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 3669 troops, 32 guns, 17 vehicles, Assault Value = 146
Defending force 1795 troops, 25 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 29
Japanese adjusted assault: 30
Allied adjusted defense: 19
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 1 (fort level 0)
Japanese Assault reduces fortifications to 0

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), leaders(-), fatigue(-), morale(-)
experience(-)
Attacker: leaders(-)

Japanese ground losses:
60 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 3 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
105 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 7 disabled
Non Combat: 3 destroyed, 9 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled

Assaulting units:
146th Infantry Regiment

Defending units:
Molukken Garrison Battalion
4th Coastal Gun Battalion
Ambon Base Force

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

Several Jap bombers (Ki-21 Sally) appeared over Soerabaja. No hits or damage reported.


Malaya: Detected status of Jap base in Singapore – 168 ships in port (+16 from last game turn), 38 Jap LCU’s, 132 aircraft (46 fighters, 31 bombers).


Philippines: Multiple Sigint report entries for 2/14 indicate elements of several Jap LCU’s are loaded aboard transport ships and enroute to Aparri. It appears the long-anticipated Japanese invasion of Luzon may be imminent.


China: Japanese ground attacks at Changteh and Shaoyang. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Shaoyang (80,52)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 44816 troops, 440 guns, 163 vehicles, Assault Value = 1448
Defending force 82391 troops, 500 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 2910
Japanese adjusted assault: 521
Allied adjusted defense: 998
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2 (fort level 0)

Combat modifiers
Defender: preparation(-), experience(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
3323 casualties reported
Squads: 10 destroyed, 117 disabled
Non Combat: 10 destroyed, 98 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 26 disabled
Vehicles lost 47 (9 destroyed, 38 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
2364 casualties reported
Squads: 12 destroyed, 210 disabled
Non Combat: 9 destroyed, 183 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 14 disabled

Assaulting units:
40th Division
13th Tank Regiment
15th Division
3rd Division
116th Division

Defending units:
86th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
88th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
28th Chinese Corps
50th Chinese Corps
65th Chinese Corps
70th Chinese Corps
63rd Chinese Corps
21st Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
16th Construction Regiment
12th Group Army
23rd Group Army
10th Group Army
25th Group Army
7th War Area
32nd Group Army

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Changteh (81,50)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 550 troops, 67 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 780
Defending force 33667 troops, 193 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1082

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

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

Assaulting units:
6th Division
39th Division
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
4th Mortar Battalion

Defending units:
8th Chinese Corps
53rd Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
6th Construction Regiment
6th War Area
20th Group Army

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

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 151
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/5/2010 4:19:25 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/15/42

Central Pacific: Sigint report entry for 2/15 indicates heavy volume of Jap radio transmissions intercepted from Kwajalein. An undetermined number of Japanese ships and planes are detected in Kwajalein base. No Japanese TF’s detected in Kwajalein.


New Guinea: Japanese naval bombardment and amphibious landing underway at Port Moresby. USN and Australian Catalinas evacuating a cadre of elements of 15 RAAF Base Force by air from Port Moresby for later rebuilding of this LCU to full TOE strength. Several Jap warships reported hitting mines laid only a few days earlier by Dutch ML’s evacuated from the DEI. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TF’s encounter mine field at Port Moresby (98,130)

Japanese Ships
CA Nachi, Mine hits 1
DD Isokaze, Mine hits 1 (reported sunk)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Naval bombardment of Port Moresby at 98,130 - Coastal Guns Fire Back!

2 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Japanese Ships
BB Hyuga
BB Ise
BB Yamashiro
BB Fuso
CA Suzuya
CL Naka

Allied ground losses:
137 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 4 destroyed, 18 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Guns lost 5 (2 destroyed, 3 disabled)

Airbase hits 1
Airbase supply hits 1
Runway hits 13
Port hits 3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Invasion action off Port Moresby - Coastal Guns Fire Back!

43 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Japanese Ships
CA Haguro
CL Nagara
DD Akebono
DD Amagiri
DD Inazuma
DD Oyashio
CA Nachi
AK Sakito Maru

Japanese ground losses:
41 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 3 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 3 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Defensive Guns fire at approaching troops in landing craft at 6,000 yards
Defensive Guns fire at approaching troops in landing craft at 2,000 yards

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Port Moresby

TF 268 troops unloading over beach at Port Moresby, 98,130

Japanese ground losses:
105 casualties reported
Squads: 8 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 10 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 1 (1 destroyed, 0 disabled)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Invasion Support action off Port Moresby - Coastal Guns Fire Back!

35 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Japanese Ships
CA Haguro
CL Nagara, Shell hits 1, on fire
DD Amagiri
DD Inazuma
DD Yamagumo
DD Oyashio
DD Kuroshio
xAK Yasukawa Maru, Shell hits 1
CA Nachi
AK Sakito Maru
DD Akebono

Japanese ground losses:
9 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 3 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Defensive Guns fire at approaching troops in landing craft at 2,000 yards

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Port Moresby (98,130)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 806 troops, 11 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 54
Defending force 8586 troops, 80 guns, 52 vehicles, Assault Value = 246

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

Assaulting units:
A Coy/NG Rifles
Port Moresby Brigade
15th RAAF Base Force

Defending units:
83rd Nav Gd /1 (new LCU in Japanese OOB)
3rd Cavalry Bde /1 (transferred to New Guinea from Kwantung Army)
82nd Nav Gd /1 (new LCU in Japanese OOB)
Maizuru 1st SNLF /1
8th Base Force /1 (transferred to New Guinea from Japanese Home Islands)

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


DEI: Several new Japanese amphibious landings on Java this game turn – at Semarang (central Java, north coast) and Banjoewangi (eastern Java). Both landings were opposed by the last remaining operational Dutch LBA bombers.

The landing operations are most likely to be preliminary moves for a Japanese assault on Soerabaja. AAR’s of both landings follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Semarang

TF 258 troops unloading over beach at Semarang, 53,102

Japanese ground losses:
149 casualties reported
Squads: 9 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 9 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on TF, near Semarang at 53,102

Weather in hex: Partial cloud

Allied aircraft
139WH-3 x 2
CW-22 Falcon x 3

No Allied losses

Japanese Ships
xAK Kokai Maru, Bomb hits 1, on fire

Japanese ground losses:
39 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 7 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x CW-22 Falcon bombing from 2000 feet
Naval Attack: 2 x 50 kg GP Bomb
2 x 139WH-3 bombing from 2000 feet
Naval Attack: 3 x 300 kg SAP Bomb

Heavy smoke from fires obscuring xAK Kokai Maru

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Semarang at 53,102

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Allied aircraft
CW-22 Falcon x 3

No Allied losses

Japanese Ships
xAK Toyama Maru

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

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x CW-22 Falcon bombing from 2000 feet
Naval Attack: 2 x 50 kg GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Banjoewangi

TF 13 troops unloading over beach at Banjoewangi, 57,107

Japanese ground losses:
175 casualties reported
Squads: 11 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 5 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on TF, near Banjoewangi at 57,107

Weather in hex: Overcast

Allied aircraft
139WH-3 x 2
CW-22 Falcon x 3

No Allied losses

Japanese Ships
xAP Hakone Maru
APD Fuji

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x CW-22 Falcon bombing from 2000 feet
Naval Attack: 2 x 50 kg GP Bomb
2 x 139WH-3 bombing from 2000 feet
Naval Attack: 3 x 300 kg SAP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Banjoewangi at 57,107

Weather in hex: Overcast

Allied aircraft
CW-22 Falcon x 3

No Allied losses

Japanese Ships
xAP Rakuyo Maru

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x CW-22 Falcon bombing from 2000 feet
Naval Attack: 2 x 50 kg GP Bomb

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

Allied submarines still operating in Jap-controlled base hex at Kalidjati. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Kalidjati at 50,99

Japanese Ships
TB Kamo, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage (reported sunk)
CL Tama
DD Tokitsukaze
DD Amatsukaze
TB Kiji
DD Suzukaze
DD Umikaze

Allied Ships
SS KXII, hits 7

SS KXII launches 4 torpedoes at TB Kamo

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

Most of the Allied subs still operating in the Java Sea (US S-class and Dutch) have received orders this game turn to refuel at the nearest remaining Allied-controlled port and prepare for departure to either India or Australia. Plans are for longer range Dutch submarines to operate from Australia with US forces and short range Dutch subs operating with the British fleet from Ceylon or India.

Increased Jap air activity over Soerabaja, including a Jap fighter sweep and an airfield bombing strike. The next few game turns will likely be the “last hurrah” for the Dutch AF fighter command. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Soerabaja , at 56,104

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 10

Allied aircraft
B-339D x 32
CW-21B Demon x 11
75A-7 Hawk x 12

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-339D: 2 destroyed

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Soerabaja , at 56,104

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Japanese aircraft
Ki-21-IIa Sally x 6

Allied aircraft
B-339D x 22
CW-21B Demon x 10
75A-7 Hawk x 11

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-21-IIa Sally: 3 destroyed, 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
2 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 15000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb

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

Ship repair activities on Allied submarines in Soerabaja are being discontinued effective immediately due to potential Jap bombing attacks on shipyard facilities and the expected Japanese ground assault on Soerabaja within the next few days. Two damaged Dutch subs are currently under repair in Soerabaja, repairs have been stopped on both subs and the two subs are being prepared for departure from Soerabaja in the next 2-3 game turns.

Ambon falls to Japanese forces. AAR of final attack follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Ambon (76,109)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 3617 troops, 32 guns, 17 vehicles, Assault Value = 143
Defending force 1641 troops, 25 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 22
Japanese adjusted assault: 56
Allied adjusted defense: 28
Japanese assault odds: 2 to 1 (fort level 0)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Ambon !!!

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), leaders(-), morale(-), experience(-)
Attacker: fatigue(-)

Japanese ground losses:
32 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 5 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
1805 casualties reported
Squads: 52 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 125 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 12 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 34 (34 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Units destroyed 3

Assaulting units:
146th Infantry Regiment

Defending units: (all eliminated)
Molukken Garrison Battalion
4th Coastal Gun Battalion
Ambon Base Force

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

A reported Japanese amphibious landing is underway at Tandjoengbalai (north coast of Sumatra in the Malacca Straits).


Malaya: Detected status of Jap base in Singapore – 172 ships in port (+4 from last game turn), 36 Jap LCU’s (-2 from last game turn), 125 aircraft (51 fighters, 27 bombers).

Japanese air ASW activity continues off Singapore. No reported contacts this game turn between Allied subs and Jap surface ASW forces.

Allied submarines still operating near Singapore will remain on station for the time being, these subs not subject to withdrawal orders in effect for the DEI. Plans are for subs operating off Singapore to withdraw through the Malacca Straits and proceed to Colombo or India.


Philippines: Multiple Sigint report entries for 2/15 indicate elements of several Jap LCU’s are loaded aboard transport ships and enroute to Aparri. It appears the long-anticipated Japanese invasion of Luzon may be imminent.


China: Japanese ground attacks at Changteh and Shaoyang. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Shaoyang (80,52)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 44816 troops, 440 guns, 163 vehicles, Assault Value = 1448
Defending force 82391 troops, 500 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 2910
Japanese adjusted assault: 521
Allied adjusted defense: 998
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2 (fort level 0)

Combat modifiers
Defender: preparation(-), experience(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
3323 casualties reported
Squads: 10 destroyed, 117 disabled
Non Combat: 10 destroyed, 98 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 26 disabled
Vehicles lost 47 (9 destroyed, 38 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
2364 casualties reported
Squads: 12 destroyed, 210 disabled
Non Combat: 9 destroyed, 183 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 14 disabled

Assaulting units:
40th Division
13th Tank Regiment
15th Division
3rd Division
116th Division

Defending units:
86th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
88th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
28th Chinese Corps
50th Chinese Corps
65th Chinese Corps
70th Chinese Corps
63rd Chinese Corps
21st Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
16th Construction Regiment
12th Group Army
23rd Group Army
10th Group Army
25th Group Army
7th War Area
32nd Group Army

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Changteh (81,50)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 550 troops, 67 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 780
Defending force 33667 troops, 193 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1082

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

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

Assaulting units:
6th Division
39th Division
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
4th Mortar Battalion

Defending units:
8th Chinese Corps
53rd Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
6th Construction Regiment
6th War Area
20th Group Army

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


< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/6/2010 3:49:00 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 152
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/5/2010 8:12:33 PM   
johnjohn

 

Posts: 186
Joined: 9/18/2010
From: Arvada, CO
Status: offline 		Sounds like pillager is getting serious (just as you predicted). I finally have figured out how to strat move via RR. (Previously was marching everyone everywhere--sheesh.) I made it to January in one piece. The KB finally reappeared, chasing Force Z back to Trincomolee and smashing up a number of air bases in lower southeast DEI, which then were invaded. The allies--no where to be seen.

Meanwhile, out west, a cruiser force beat up Hosho and escorts near Canton Island on which I am making a determined stand (Marine Def BN, some ENG, and the fighter squadon from Wake and the DB squadron from Midway, including a cruiser SF and now a two CV TF since the KB is elsewhwere). I have also dispatched about 12,000 enemy invaders near Kuchan which I lost and then took back. The PI is falling, and I have started pulling out the fighter squadrons via withdrawal. Mainly trying to save the pilots.

Pago-Pago is my small base of operations supporting Canton Is. I have a number of support ships, AVDs and an AE based there. Fuel, which is coming in fast in furious is getting distributed all about since PP cannot hold much. Suva is my next move to build up. Then Noumea if it still is in my hands. Auckland is getting whumped up logistically as well, but most of my effort is going to Sydney and Perth.

I like your ASW approach on west coast and plan to duplicate it. Meanwhile, I have changed a number of leaders (Nimitz being the most significant--most are combat types for battalions and brigades. Am forming up in Burma, Imphal, and East India, getting the divisions organized and troops relocated. Have abandoned Rangoon area except for fighters. Am going to pull the AVG back to Mandalay once the enemy comes, but for now they have no troops north of Bangkok that I know about. China, for whatever reason, has turned into a real killing zone. I just keep pulling back.

This is proving to be a real learning experience as I start to master the various rules (especially for movement). In the Solomons the Lark BN and Rabaul Base force are jungle bunnies trying to get to Gasmata. And the three companies of Infantry around Lae are doing the same trying to just get out. For whatever reason, my squadrons at Port Moseby would not fly in to evacuate them before the IJN invaded. The pick up troops option lit up, but they would not pick them up. Dunno what I did wrong since it is supposed to work. So they are walking, 4 miles a day. It is going to take weeks if not months to get them out.

On the Malay the IJN and Army are finally getting organized. They are pushing everything back to Singapore, but just taking their time doing it. Meanwhile the fuel evac of Palembang still goes on. I think the ten convoys, some still loading and the rest hauling fuel and oil, will get nearly 300K of fuel out to Perth. Most made two trips, so not too bad. And learning to do all these things really makes me appreciate the game and all the game advice I am getting. I really appreciate it, and consider myself still fortunate that I have yet to do something really dumb. I have been reading some of the other confrontations (other allied threads) and the number of times a US CV force is lost is amazing. I still have mine and have no plans to put them at risk until the pilots have more experience. My hope is too hang in there until July when I then have six CVs to work with. Then I can work to stop the advance so that in 43 and 44 I can take everything back--and them some.

Once again, I disappear into the ether hoping that that shadow I see is not the Yamato! Johnjohn

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 153
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/6/2010 12:02:55 AM   
wneumann


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

Strategic movement by rail is very handy wherever you can do it. Unfortunately it's often not available in places where you really need or want to use it.

quote:

The PI is falling, and I have started pulling out the fighter squadrons via withdrawal. Mainly trying to save the pilots.

My thought has been to save the pilots as well, and I pretty much did. Though the one thing about withdrawal is you're gonna lose the planes, so you might as well lose them in combat (you may shoot down a Jap plane or two with luck) before withdrawing the surviving pilots. Given that, my PI fighter squadrons basically fought to the last (operational) plane before I withdrew them.

One little FYI on withdrawing the PI fighter squadrons, they re-appear in Sydney with a full complement of P-40's though still with a withdrawal date of 3/42. You could find that handy.

quote:

Have abandoned Rangoon area except for fighters. Am going to pull the AVG back to Mandalay once the enemy comes


Keep in mind withdrawing the AVG squadrons to India will require a PP expenditure. Plan accordingly.

The most valuable thing about playing the AI is learning the game mechanics - actions and activities you can do, the amount of time needed to do different things and how to do them. Basically it's a good test drive of AI as long as you remember the tactics and strategy you employ playing the AI will at best be less effective against a human Jap opponent, at worst suicidal.

quote:

Sounds like pillager is getting serious (just as you predicted).

The only reason Pillager "wasn't serious" is that he diverted most of the IJ Army outside of China into Malaya to get Singapore. 60+ Jap LCU's in the final assault there pretty much describes Singapore in Pillager's list of Japanese priorities. Now with Singapore in Japanese hands, Pillager will be making up for lost time. Only a matter of where he's planning to go next and how long it takes to move Jap LCU's out of Singapore to where he's going. No question his pace of attack is definately going to step up.

< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/6/2010 4:02:06 PM >

(in reply to johnjohn)
Post #: 154
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/6/2010 12:05:48 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/16/42

Central Pacific: Sigint report entry for 2/16 indicates Jap radio transmissions intercepted from Wake Is. No Japanese forces or activity at Wake was detected or observed.


New Guinea: Japanese ground attack on Port Moresby continues. Jap amphibious and surface naval TF’s in Port Moresby base hex on 2/15 are no longer detected. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Port Moresby (98,130)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 8622 troops, 80 guns, 52 vehicles, Assault Value = 249
Defending force 2493 troops, 31 guns, 3 vehicles, Assault Value = 53
Japanese adjusted assault: 100
Allied adjusted defense: 61
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 1 (fort level 2)
Japanese Assault reduces fortifications to 1

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

Japanese ground losses:
17 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
280 casualties reported
Squads: 4 destroyed, 15 disabled
Non Combat: 7 destroyed, 12 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Units destroyed 1

Assaulting units:
Maizuru 1st SNLF
82nd Naval Guard Unit
3rd Cavalry Brigade
83rd Naval Guard Unit
8th Base Force

Defending units:
A Coy/NG Rifles (eliminated)
Port Moresby Brigade
15th RAAF Base Force

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Port Moresby (98,130)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 678 troops, 11 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 35
Defending force 8603 troops, 80 guns, 52 vehicles, Assault Value = 248

Assaulting units:
Port Moresby Brigade
15th RAAF Base Force

Defending units:
Maizuru 1st SNLF
3rd Cavalry Brigade
82nd Naval Guard Unit
83rd Naval Guard Unit
8th Base Force

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


DEI: Japanese capture Semarang and Banjoewangi bases on Java. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Semarang (53,102)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 12799 troops, 114 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 448
Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0
Japanese adjusted assault: 310
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 310 to 1 (fort level 1)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Semarang !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker:

Assaulting units:
4th Division

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Banjoewangi (57,107)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 8959 troops, 105 guns, 32 vehicles, Assault Value = 293
Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0
Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 0
Japanese adjusted assault: 200
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 200 to 1 (fort level 0)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Banjoewangi !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker:

Assaulting units:
65th Brigade
33rd Infantry Regiment
1st Ind. Engineer Regiment
17th Medium Field Artillery Regiment

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

Jap air activity continues over Soerabaja. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Soerabaja , at 56,104

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 9

Allied aircraft
B-339D x 21
CW-21B Demon x 9
75A-7 Hawk x 12

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-339D: 3 destroyed
CW-21B Demon: 1 destroyed

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

Jap fighter sweep (8 A6M2 Zeroes from CVL Ryuho) and ground attack air strike (30 Ki-21 Sally) over Palembang. Five Ki-21 bombers hit by flak. Minor disruption to Dutch LCU elements in Palembang.

Japanese capture Tandjoengbalai on north coast of Sumatra. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Tandjoengbalai (47,78)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 3129 troops, 26 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 116
Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0
Japanese adjusted assault: 56
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 56 to 1 (fort level 1)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Tandjoengbalai !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker: leaders(-)

Assaulting units:
143rd Infantry Regiment (sub-units of this LCU were combined)

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


Malaya: Detected status of Jap base in Singapore – 221 ships in port (+51 from last game turn), 37 Jap LCU’s (+1 from last game turn), 126 aircraft (51 fighters, 31 bombers).

Japanese air and surface ASW activity continues off Singapore.


China: Japanese ground attacks at Changteh and Shaoyang continue. Latest AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Shaoyang (80,52)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 890 troops, 112 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1254
Defending force 60863 troops, 376 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 2140

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

Allied ground losses:
125 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 10 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
13th Tank Regiment
3rd Division
40th Division
15th Division
116th Division
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
1st Mortar Battalion
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion

Defending units:
21st Chinese Corps
88th Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
50th Chinese Corps
70th Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
7th War Area
25th Group Army
23rd Group Army
32nd Group Army

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Changteh (81,50)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 540 troops, 67 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 796
Defending force 33693 troops, 193 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1085

Assaulting units:
6th Division
39th Division
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
4th Mortar Battalion

Defending units:
8th Chinese Corps
53rd Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
6th Construction Regiment
6th War Area
20th Group Army

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

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 155
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/7/2010 3:12:19 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/17/42

US West Coast: Three restricted command USAAF fighter squadrons due for permanent withdrawal on 2/21/42 were disbanded this game turn. 55 Army fighter pilots in training were removed from the three squadrons and transferred to General Reserve before the squadrons were disbanded.

Experience levels of the 55 transferred pilots varied, air-to-air skill ratings were generally in the 60-70 range.


Central Pacific: Sigint report entry for 2/17 indicates Jap radio transmissions intercepted from Jaluit. No detected Japanese forces or activity.


New Guinea: Japanese capture Port Moresby. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Port Moresby (98,130)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 8634 troops, 80 guns, 52 vehicles, Assault Value = 250
Defending force 2255 troops, 26 guns, 3 vehicles, Assault Value = 35
Japanese adjusted assault: 128
Allied adjusted defense: 7
Japanese assault odds: 18 to 1 (fort level 1)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Port Moresby !!!

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

Japanese ground losses:
142 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 8 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 11 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Vehicles lost 17 (1 destroyed, 16 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
1384 casualties reported
Squads: 18 destroyed, 15 disabled
Non Combat: 70 destroyed, 15 disabled
Engineers: 16 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 21 (21 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Vehicles lost 3 (3 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Units retreated 2

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
3rd Cavalry Brigade
Maizuru 1st SNLF
82nd Naval Guard Unit
83rd Naval Guard Unit
8th Base Force

Defending units: (withdrawing toward Buna)
Port Moresby Brigade
15th RAAF Base Force

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

If the two Australian LCU’s (above) can reach Buna ahead of a Japanese move to capture it, plans are to evacuate from Buna to mainland Australia by air as many elements as possible from either or both units. A small cadre of 15 RAAF Base Force is already airlifted from Port Moresby to Cooktown. Intent of this plan will be to preserve small cadres of these units for possible rebuilding to full TOE strength at a later date.


DEI: Jap ground forces have been detected advancing eastward through central areas of Java toward Soerabaja. One unidentified Jap LCU also detected entering Tjilatjap base hex.

No Jap air activity this game turn over Soerabaja or Palembang.

US sub S-36 intrudes on Jap unloading operations at Banjoewangi (eastern Java). AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Denpasar at 58,107

Japanese Ships
xAP Rakuyo Maru
xAK Izumo Maru
xAK Asahisan Maru
PB Shuko Maru #2
PB Shonan Maru #6
PB Muro Maru

Allied Ships
SS S-36

SS S-36 is sighted by escort

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

Allied subs have now mostly departed the central and western Java Sea areas per orders issued last game turn. At this point, the subs have pretty much done all there is for them to do in the DEI. It’s now a matter of giving the subs one last replenishment in the DEI while there’s a chance for them to do so, then getting them out of there to continue the war from other bases.

A handful of wandering Dutch solders in SE Borneo (deliberately) strayed into a Japanese-occupied base to see if anyone’s home and perhaps steal some unguarded sushi (as if these fellows have anything better to do). AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Bandjermasin (60,99)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 5371 troops, 41 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 168
Defending force 249 troops, 10 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 6
Japanese adjusted assault: 60
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 60 to 1

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), op mode(-), leaders(-), fatigue(-)
experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker: fatigue(-)

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

Allied ground losses:
156 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 12 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Units retreated 1

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
41st Guard Battalion
4th Infantry Regiment
18th JNAF AF Unit

Defending units:
Samarinda KNIL Battalion

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


Malaya: Detected status of Jap base in Singapore – 221 ships in port, 36 Jap LCU’s (-1 from last game turn), 127 aircraft (52 fighters, 25 bombers).

One intact Dutch submarine (K-XVII) remains in the Allied force operating off Singapore, orders were issued this game turn for this sub to refuel at the nearest port still under Allied control and leave the DEI/Singapore area. Most of the Allied subs that had been operating the last few days near Singapore have received damage as a result of action from the heavy Jap surface and air ASW activity in the area.

Dutch sub K-XIV heavily damaged off Singapore in an action with Japanese surface ASW. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Singapore at 49,85 (southern entrance to Malacca Straits)

Japanese Ships
DD Hatsuyuki
DD Usugumo
DD Uranami

Allied Ships
SS K-XIV, hits 4 (system damage 51, float 61, engineering 25. SS K-XIV is now limping off to India at 5 kts)

SS K-XIV is located by DD Hatsuyuki

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


China: Japanese ground attacks at Changteh, Shaoyang and near Sian. AAR’s follow.

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

Ground combat at Shaoyang (80,52)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 890 troops, 112 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1276
Defending force 60811 troops, 376 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 2137

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

Assaulting units: (HQ 13 Army and all the artillery LCU’s listed below appeared at Shaoyang this game turn to reinforce the attack)
40th Division
3rd Division
15th Division
13th Tank Regiment
116th Division
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
13th Army
1st Mortar Battalion
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion

Defending units:
88th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
50th Chinese Corps
79th Chinese Corps
70th Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
21st Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
25th Group Army
7th War Area
23rd Group Army
32nd Group Army

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Changteh (81,50)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 550 troops, 67 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 803
Defending force 33715 troops, 193 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1086

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

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

Assaulting units:
6th Division
39th Division
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
11th Army
4th Mortar Battalion

Defending units:
8th Chinese Corps
53rd Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
6th Construction Regiment
6th War Area
20th Group Army

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 84,42 (E of Sian)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 10819 troops, 94 guns, 32 vehicles, Assault Value = 357
Defending force 3560 troops, 43 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 125
Japanese adjusted assault: 163
Allied adjusted defense: 139
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 1

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

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

Allied ground losses:
60 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 12 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
35th Division

Defending units:
47th Chinese Corps

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

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 156
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/7/2010 5:27:16 PM   
Alfred

 

Posts: 6685
Joined: 9/28/2006
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: wneumann

...Defending units: (withdrawing toward Buna)
Port Moresby Brigade
15th RAAF Base Force

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

If the two Australian LCU’s (above) can reach Buna ahead of a Japanese move to capture it, plans are to evacuate from Buna to mainland Australia by air as many elements as possible from either or both units. A small cadre of 15 RAAF Base Force is already airlifted from Port Moresby to Cooktown. Intent of this plan will be to preserve small cadres of these units for possible rebuilding to full TOE strength at a later date...




You don't have to actually reach Buna in order to air evacuate those two units. You can use PA to pick up infantry (and devices <7 load weight) from any coastal hex.

If you know for certain there is a race to get to Buna first, it may well be worthwhile to set the destination hex to be one of the coastal hexes surrounding Port Moresby. That way you will have more time to get the men out rather than reaching Buna second and being immediately thrown out of time into a non coastal hex.

Alfred

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 157
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/8/2010 4:02:15 AM   
wneumann


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

My choice of Buna was dictated largely by the fact the two Australian LCU's were retreated directly towards Buna as an end result of Pillager's attack on Port Moresby. I fully concur with your statement about coastal hexes as my plans are to evacuate elements of the LCU's by air (troop pick-up) using Catalinas and PBY's operating from Cooktown. Actually, I have no information one way or the other on any movement by Pillager to take Buna. Given that he (Pillager) is busy clearing the logjam of Japanese LCU's from Singapore, it'd be reasonably safe to say they could have some time to get to Buna ahead of a Japanese move to capture it.

I've actually been using patrol seaplanes extensively around Port Moresby and in the DEI for transport of LCU elements by air. Successful actions so far include extraction of Australian 27 Brigade elements from Singapore via Palembang to Batavia (using a relay system involving two separate groups of patrol seaplanes), concentration of Dutch LCU's from outlying locations into garrisons at Soerabaja and Palembang, picking up remnants of Australian LCU's from Rabaul and Kavieng and bringing them to mainland Australia after these bases were captured by the Japanese (this also done using a relay system).

Granted... patrol seaplanes are designed for use in naval search and is their most effective use. Transport (especially troops) is turning out to be a very effective secondary role for these planes when they're not actually needed or useful on naval search.

< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/8/2010 4:11:16 AM >

(in reply to Alfred)
Post #: 158
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/9/2010 4:14:18 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/18/42

In general, a mostly very quiet game turn outside of China. Not that there isn’t anything happening…

South Pacific: Over the last several game turns, I’ve done a survey of bases in the far southern areas of the South Pacific theatre (Society and Cook island groups) to identify suitable base locations for possible use as forward staging areas for US forces in the event Pillager succeeds in creating the same Japanese forward perimeter along the line Canton-Samoa-Suva-Noumea that he did in our previous CHS match.

At this point, I’m considering this study a (worst-case) contingency plan. My overall defensive plan in the South Pacific is to establish and hold a bridgehead to prevent Pillager from completely accomplishing the same Japanese outer perimeter line that he did in our previous match. Even with the successful defense of a bridgehead position, a buildup of suitable bases in the Society and/or Cook Islands may still be desirable even if it does not prove to be a necessity.

My criteria for suitable bases in this area of the South Pacific is that they have a large (preferably unlimited) troop stacking capacity, plus the largest available expandable port and airfield capacity within the region. Only two bases in the far southern area (Tahiti & Rarotonga) completely fill this requirement. Possible future utilization of these bases at their fully-built capacity would be comparable to my use of Penhryn Is in our last CHS match as a jumping off point against Pago Pago.

Early preparations are underway for occupation of Tahiti and Rarotonga mainly by engineer and base force units together with sufficient supply point stocks to begin expansion of port and airfield facilities. Even if these bases are not needed in the final analysis, it’s not too early to start.

As for holding a bridgehead in Pillager’s possible Japanese outer perimeter line, preparations for this have been quietly underway since the start of the game. My planned Allied bridgehead is centered around Suva, together with several bases (Tonga and Niue) to cover its southern approaches. Fiji itself is already garrisoned with three NZ brigades, plus US and Australian units. Other Allied units have already occupied Tongatapu and Niue. Supply and fuel stocks in the bridgehead area are also being built up. One major advantage I saw with Suva for this was its proximity to Auckland as a supporting base immediately to its rear. Tonga and Niue would also need to be be occupied in order to cover the southern sea approaches to Suva from Auckland.

Initially I had looked at including Pago Pago and Noumea in this bridgehead, but with the Allied forces immediately available, my conclusion was that maximizing the (hopefully successful) defense of one major base and its immediate approaches was preferable to an inadequate (and probably unsuccessful) defense of three locations at once. Try to defend everything at once and in the end you will likely defend nothing. However, I have not excluded the possibility of expanding the bridgehead area to include Pago Pago and/or Noumea if sufficient Allied forces to successfully defend them can be brought to bear.

I don’t know if this plan will work, but it’s at least more than I had done last time.


DEI: Allied subs are now refueling at several locations in the DEI before departing for either India or Australia.

Jap minesweeping operations reported at Batavia.

Current situation map of Java follows.




Attachment (1)

< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/9/2010 4:17:52 AM >

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 159
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/9/2010 4:21:15 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/18/42 (continued)

Malaya: Detected status of Jap base in Singapore – 237 ships in port (+16 from last game turn), 34 Jap LCU’s (-2 from last game turn), 121 aircraft (45 fighters, 28 bombers).

Allied submarines have vacated patrol areas around Singapore, most of these subs having been damaged in Japanese air and/or surface ASW attacks.


China: Japanese ground attacks at Changteh and Shaoyang in central China. Latest AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Changteh (81,50)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 23771 troops, 273 guns, 42 vehicles, Assault Value = 805
Defending force 33725 troops, 193 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1088
Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 2
Japanese adjusted assault: 1220
Allied adjusted defense: 1539
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2 (fort level 2)

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

Japanese ground losses:
3027 casualties reported
Squads: 4 destroyed, 167 disabled
Non Combat: 2 destroyed, 94 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 26 disabled

Allied ground losses:
409 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 36 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 23 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 2 disabled

Assaulting units:
6th Division
39th Division
11th Army
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
4th Mortar Battalion

Defending units:
53rd Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
6th Construction Regiment
6th War Area
20th Group Army

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Shaoyang (80,52)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 890 troops, 112 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1299
Defending force 46061 troops, 295 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1614

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

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

Assaulting units:
15th Division
3rd Division
13th Tank Regiment
40th Division
116th Division
13th Army
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
1st Mortar Battalion
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion

Defending units:
21st Chinese Corps
70th Chinese Corps
100th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
50th Chinese Corps
49th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
25th Group Army
7th War Area
32nd Group Army

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


Japanese ground forces also advancing westward from Nanyang towards Sian and Ankang. A current situation map of north central China and AAR’s of several combat actions in this area follow.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 84,43 (E of Sian)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 18769 troops, 161 guns, 92 vehicles, Assault Value = 688
Defending force 11162 troops, 81 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 349
Japanese adjusted assault: 310
Allied adjusted defense: 439
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), experience(-)
Attacker: fatigue(-)

Japanese ground losses:
404 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 43 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 24 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 3 disabled

Allied ground losses:
270 casualties reported
Squads: 3 destroyed, 25 disabled
Non Combat: 2 destroyed, 26 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Assaulting units:
61st Infantry Brigade (new unit in Japanese OOB)
15th Tank Regiment
26th Division

Defending units:
36th Chinese Corps
96th Chinese Corps

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 84,42 (E of Sian)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 10749 troops, 94 guns, 32 vehicles, Assault Value = 351
Defending force 3461 troops, 43 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 113
Japanese adjusted assault: 315
Allied adjusted defense: 178
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 1

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

Japanese ground losses:
109 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 8 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 10 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Allied ground losses:
244 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 10 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 14 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Assaulting units:
35th Division

Defending units:
47th Chinese Corps

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 84,44 (E of Ankang)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 5851 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 211
Defending force 592 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 3
Japanese adjusted assault: 206
Allied adjusted defense: 13
Japanese assault odds: 15 to 1

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), op mode(-), leaders(+), experience(-)
Attacker: leaders(+)

Allied ground losses:
177 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 15 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 3 destroyed, 5 disabled
Units retreated 1

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
2nd Ind.Mixed Brigade

Defending units:
4th Construction Regiment


Attachment (1)

< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/9/2010 4:22:05 AM >

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 160
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/15/2010 4:10:21 AM   
johnjohn

 

Posts: 186
Joined: 9/18/2010
From: Arvada, CO
Status: offline 		As in my first foray, before changing computers, I placed allied surface groups around some of the more likely spots for the Nippons to take if the AI decided to go west. That is about as far as I got before restarting what is this current learning experience. One group intercepted four invasion groups, sinking some 16 ships and sending 12,000 troops and sailors to Davy Jones locker. So....why not try it again?

This time I got one group, 5,000 casualties, and pushed back the westward expansion for about a week. My carriers then raided the 'canal assembly area and got another group, 500 casualties that time. Actually the raid was quite disappointing, but following the rule to hit and RUN, I did not stick around to see if I could get more the next day. My raiders and surface groups all returned to Noumea to regroup.

Meanwhile, back at the pass as they say out here in the American west, a supply convoy to Brisbane spooks the KB (four CV/CVL) which ignores it. It promptly reports and heads for safety. Fletcher with Sara and Yorktown are at Noumea while Halsey, who hit Tawara in a hit and RUN, is one day out with Enterprise and Lexington. On the morning of Jan 26, the KB hits Noumea, actually intercepts Fletcher who took off to intercept. The exchange is noteworthy in that the KB (now identified as Zuikaku, Hiryu, Soryu, and CVL) hits Fletcher but does little damage. Fletcher hits back and sets Zuikaku on fire. End of round one. Fletcher heads back to Noumea where Halsey is now waiting. They next day, the KB (light) moves in closer and Halsey intercepts. Lexington takes some damage but is severely on fire (she sinks the next day). Lex and Enterprise pound the KB light, sinking Soryu, heavy damage and heavy fire to Zuikaku and Hiryu, on fire to CVL. The KB scrambles to escape with the cripples. I cannot pursue with carriers due to fuel problems, so they may get away, but with that damage and at least five days to Rabaul, they may not make it. FOG keeps me from knowing.

In the post battle analysis, other than trying to determine who gets what medals, both allied carrier groups are retiring to Pearl for replenishment and repairs. The IJN is reduced to three very good fleet carriers, while I will have four when Hornet arrives. Chalk one up to begineers luck, but four against four is not bad odds, even at the end of January. It is possible that Hiryu and Zuikaku may eventually reappear, but for now, should they make port, they will be out of commission for up to a year.

For now the advance is halted. Patrols are again off Luganville, Efate, and Noumea/Koumac. I am rushing Engineers and defenders to Noumea including four Marine squadrons (Two fighter, Two bomber). The Americal Division, which is forming, will soon be headed there as well, all though it will take a month to get everything there. I am hopeful that I can hold out along the more traditional lines, although I do not expect another Coral Sea adventure in the near future. Until the AI builds up air bases in the Solomons, it is surface force against surface force. I like the odds on that for now. With Canton Island, one WMF and one VMSB, a Marine defense BN and other troops, Pago-Pago building up (2nd Marine Div assembling here, other defenders in place and airfields building), Suva and Noumea, I have made my commitment to hold that line. With half the KB out of business for now, I like my chances. Time will tell. Johnjohn

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 161
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/15/2010 11:46:02 PM   
wneumann


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

All in all, a good action with your carriers for this early in the war. Anything you get is good. Just as important as sinking enemy ships is keeping the balance of carrier forces at least even if not in your favor.

The biggest benefit of the action is that it gave you a picture of Allied and Japanese carrier forces in battle. Keep in perspective, though, that a human Japanese player is unlikely to divide the KB as the AI did.

From what I saw, when you do get the Hornet, it does not enter the game with the latest and greatest models of aircraft on board. I just got it in this game and it appears the Hornet's air group will need an upgrade of its planes to newer types before this ship can see any significant combat ops without a significant risk of loss in action (especially against any kind of Japanese air or carrier opposition).

(in reply to johnjohn)
Post #: 162
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/15/2010 11:48:25 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/20/42

Yet another day of little reported activity… Pillager is no doubt at this time conducting a considerable amount of movement and preparation behind the Japanese lines for the next offensive actions. Unfortunately detection let alone attacking much if not all of this is beyond the reach of nearly all the effective Allied naval and air forces now in action. On my part there is little more to do than wait, prepare, and try to detect or pick up whatever Japanese movements I can.

DEI: Entries in 2/20 Combat report indicate Jap minesweeping operations in progress at Batavia.

Detected status of Jap base in Batavia – no detected Japanese ships, TF, aircraft or LCU’s; resource production 61(0), heavy industry 23(20), light industry 81(0). While some Dutch engineers had been located in Batavia before its fall to the Japanese, the majority of Dutch engineer elements were shipped to either Soerabaja or Palembang to concentrate efforts on demolition of oil production at these two sites.


Malaya: Detected status of Jap base in Singapore – 231 ships in port (no change), 33 Jap LCU’s (also no change), 151 aircraft (58 fighters, 34 bombers). One Jap TF (4 ships including two CVE) detected in Singapore base hex.

Status of industry and production facilities in Singapore – resource production 4(17), heavy industry 4(32), light industry 4(37), repair shipyard 4(47). It appears demolition efforts by British engineer elements on production and industrial facilities in Singapore on its fall were at least partly successful.


India: Unidentified Jap submarine detected off Trivandrum (hex 26,44) last game turn remains stationary. At this time, no threat to Allied ship movements.


China: Japanese ground attacks continue at Shaoyang and east of Sian. Latest AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Shaoyang (80,52)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 890 troops, 112 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1310
Defending force 9329 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 347

Allied ground losses:
67 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 6 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 3 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
15th Division
13th Tank Regiment
3rd Division
40th Division
116th Division
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
13th Army
1st Mortar Battalion
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion

Defending units:
70th Chinese Corps

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 84,42 (E of Sian)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 10649 troops, 94 guns, 32 vehicles, Assault Value = 344
Defending force 3273 troops, 43 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 97
Japanese adjusted assault: 334
Allied adjusted defense: 136
Japanese assault odds: 2 to 1

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

Japanese ground losses:
150 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 7 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 7 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Allied ground losses:
1146 casualties reported
Squads: 49 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 40 destroyed, 5 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 3 disabled
Units retreated 1

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
35th Division

Defending units:
47th Chinese Corps

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 163
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/19/2010 6:09:58 PM   
johnjohn

 

Posts: 186
Joined: 9/18/2010
From: Arvada, CO
Status: offline 		In my learning experience against the AI, details continue to emerge from the KB lite (Hiryu, Soryu, Zuikaku, CVL and escorts) sortie against Sara, Lex, Enterprise, and Yorktown at Noumea. Following the two day battle previously reported, I sent a surface force, 4 CL and 5 DD to patrol off Koumac. That force intercepted the retreating IJN CV (damaged) force and sank Soryu (previously reported sunk) and Zuikaku and all but one of the escorts (DD, heavy damage, heavy fires...likely a kill but will have to wait and see.) In the final analysis, Lex sunk, all three other US CVs some light damage. Best tactical analysis, Hiryu, heavy damage, heavy fires has escaped, (probably not nearly as damaged as reported. The CVL was reported on fire. Task force reports indicate all but two a/c destroyed/expended on IJN CVs.) Coastwatcher reports Kaga anchored off Tassafaronga (sp??) at the Guadalcanal assembly point. Two BBs reported operating in this area as well. Baker taken last turn by 25 troops. Its like swatting misquitoes, can't get them all. Another 5,000 jap troops swimming with the sharks off Luganville.

Am reverting to reinforcing. Air support troops and one P40 squadron from Pearl enroute to Noumea. A USMC Def Bn also enroute. HMS Warspite will be in Sydney in a week to ten days. 10 cruisers and 15 destroyers operating out of Noumea and Suva, which both have decent stocks of supplies and fuel. San Diego is sending a Marine fighter squadron (Buffs), and two dive bomber squadrons and some Engineers. Following on are the First Raiders and 2nd Parachute BN, more air support personnel and naval base support personnel, repair ships, ammo ships and supplies. The two Inf Rgmts that combine with the one at Fort Ord to make the 23rd Inf Div (Americal Division) are well on the way via RR from the East Coast and should combine in five days or less. The division will then be shipped to Noumea. ETA is about a month from now, maybe a bit sooner.

Don't know if I can hold, especially if Akagi, Kaga, and Shokaku are sent in. If, and it is a big if, the incoming squadrons get to Noumea first, I can hold. It is suicide to attack a base defended by four dive bombing squadrons (all of Lexington's survivors are here too). In the end, two Navy/Marine fighter squadrons (one F4F), one P40 squadron, one B-17 and one Catalina unit and four DB squadrons will make taking Noumea costly, esp if the Surf forces continue to operate on patrol. Last report from RA Shalforth "Soryu, Zuikaku, three DDs sunk, one DD heavy damage and heavy fires escaped. Resuming patrol. All is well." Johnjohn

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 164
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/20/2010 12:15:45 AM   
wneumann


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

Good carrier action. Swat the mosquitoes, you'll eventually get them.

I'm doing something similar at Suva to what you're doing in Noumea. In both cases, Auckland makes a good rear-area support base (that you also need to be building up). Several things I had been keeping in mind during a buildup of this nature. I'm sure an item or two I'm not foreseeing could find its way on this list later on.

(1) Get enough Allied forces into forward bases to adequately defend them. Otherwise, the LCU's you send in there will be destroyed for nothing.

(2) Make sure you get plenty of supply and fuel (especially supply) in forward bases while you can do it unimpeded by the Japanese before they arrive. Once the Japanese reach the area in force, transport into these bases is likely to get a bit more complicated.

(3) Also look at the (sea) communication route from your rear area (i.e. Auckland) into forward bases (such as Suva or Noumea). Any islands near your communication route that the Japanese could use to interdict movement to and from your forward base need to be sufficiently occupied by your own (Allied) forces. If there's an unoccupied island within flight range of your sea communication route (use Betty/Nell striking range as a general "yardstick") that already has or that can be built up into an airfield sufficient to support naval strike missions against transports you are sending across your communications route, you need to occupy that island yourself.

(4) Don't ignore the rear areas. Any major base in the rear (such as Noumea) that you're using along with one or more forward bases needs to be built up as well and also provisioned sufficiently to support your forward bases.

Good luck.

< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/20/2010 12:18:17 AM >

(in reply to johnjohn)
Post #: 165
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/20/2010 12:23:46 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/21/42

Central Pacific: SS Stingray operating on sub patrol 5 hexes N of Truk reporting an attack by a Val dive bomber at hex location 113,103. While it’s possible the attacking Val may have been a land-based plane flying from Truk, it is also quite possible the contact is a clue to the KB’s current general location (near or in the base at Truk), also that the KB has sorted and is in the Pacific possibly headed southward.

Although the contact appeared in the 2/20 Operations report, I had to watch the combat replay a second time in order to get some of the detail behind what was going on here (in particular the fact the attacking Jap plane was a Val).


South Pacific: Can’t remember exactly where in the forum it was mentioned but I did read a string discussing two small US LCU’s (2/102 Infantry Bn & 2/198 Coast AA Bn) that arrive in the game as reinforcements at Bora Bora. Although arrival of these units in the Society Islands is certainly welcome in light of the current situation and my future plans in this region, Bora Bora is not the most optimum place for these LCU to arrive.

Having anticipated this event… I dispatched several empty US xAP’s that had been returning to the US West Coast from Auckland on a side trip to Bora Bora to pick up the two LCU’s and bring them to Tahiti (where they can be adequately kept in supply if not become more useful in future US plans in the South Pacific). The AP’s reached Bora Bora this game turn and are now performing this task.


New Guinea: Japanese amphibious landings underway at both Salamaua and Buna. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Buna

TF 295 troops unloading over beach at Buna, 99,129

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

7.7mm T99 AAMG dropped into water during unload of 20th JNAF AF Unit
Sound Detector (J) accidentally lost during unload of 20th JNAF AF Unit
Observor Squad accidentally lost during unload of 20th JNAF AF Unit
Searchlight (J) accidentally lost during unload of 20th JNAF AF Unit
17 troops of a SNLF Squad lost from landing craft during unload of 20th JNAF AF Unit
17 troops of a SNLF Squad lost from landing craft during unload of 20th JNAF AF Unit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Invasion action off Salamaua
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

6 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Japanese Ships
APD Hagi
APD Nadakaze
APD Shimakaze
AMC Bankok Maru

APD Hagi fired at enemy troops
APD Nadakaze fired at enemy troops
APD Shimakaze fired at enemy troops

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Salamaua

TF 293 troops unloading over beach at Salamaua, 98,127

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

An airlift (using PBY’s and Catalinas) was started last game turn to evacuate elements of D Coy/NG Rifles from Salamaua to Cooktown. A full evacuation of D Coy is expected to be complete ahead of the ground assault by the Japanese landing force to capture Salamaua.

Buna is currently unoccupied by Allied ground forces. (correction from original post)

Alfred… I guess the two Australian LCU’s that were pushed out of Port Moresby will be headed for a coastal hex other than Lae after all.


Australia: For the past month, I’ve diverted the training missions of many RAAF 2E pilots in preparation for future use in low altitude naval attack missions. My thought being these pilots will be sufficiently trained for this type of mission once planes suitable for use in low-level naval attack strikes become available.

Similar pilot training activity is also underway on the US West Coast employing pilots in USAAF restricted-command 2E squadrons. If this type of air action is feasible in AE, my intent is to begin preparations as early as possible. I don’t have the planes right now to execute low-level naval attack but I can start preparing (training) the pilots.


DEI: Entries in 2/21 Combat report indicate continuing Jap minesweeping operations at Batavia, this activity also confirmed by US submarine S-37. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Batavia at 49,98

Japanese Ships
AMc Toroshima Maru

Allied Ships
SS S-37

Captain of SS S-37 elects not to launch torpedoes at this target (!)

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

The S-37 did detect the presence of several Japanese TF in Batavia, including the Baby KB. Maybe the S-37’s captain did see some wisdom in conserving ammunition for a pot shot at a flattop.

Some air transport of Dutch LCU’s with engineer elements from Soerabaja to Palembang is underway. This move is to modify the distribution of engineer squads between Soerabaja and Palembang to ensure the proper degree of demolitions at each location.

Japanese ground forces continue slowly creeping eastward across Java.


Philippines: It’s now happening… Japanese amphibious landing operations on Luzon are now underway at Aparri. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Aparri at 83,72

Japanese Ships
CM Tsugaru
AMC Kiyosumi Maru
APD Tade
xAP Ural Maru
xAP Atsuta Maru
xAP Suwa Maru
xAK Naniwa Maru
xAK Yamahagi Maru
PB Hakkai Maru
PB Chokai Maru
PB Takashima Maru

Allied Ships
SS Sturgeon

SS Sturgeon launches 4 torpedoes at CM Tsugaru

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Aparri

TF 86 troops unloading over beach at Aparri, 82,73

Japanese ground losses:
798 casualties reported
Squads: 54 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 9 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 1 (1 destroyed, 0 disabled)

(Significant numbers of Japanese troops along with equipment were reported lost overboard while unloading in this AAR. Jap LCU’s identified unloading in this AAR include 12th, 19th and 24th Divisions along with 9 Garrison Unit. Pillager had transferred all four of these LCU’s from the Kwantung Army to participate in the invasion.)

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


Malaya: 270 ships now detected in port at Singapore (+39 from last report), no report of detected Jap LCU’s in Singapore. Status of industry and production facilities in Singapore shown this game turn is consistent with information seen last game turn.


Burma: One unidentified Jap LCU detected in the adjacent hex S of Magwe. A Sigint report entry identifies the Jap 33rd Division at this hex location, advancing northward towards Magwe from Prome.


India: No further contact reported with unidentified Jap submarine detected off Trivandrum at hex 26,44. A British ASW task force had been sent to the hex location.


China: Japanese capture Shaoyang from a Chinese rear guard force. The Chinese position at Shaoyang had already been outflanked with one Japanese LCU having cut the road between Shaoyang and Chihkiang. The main Chinese ground force defending Shaoyang had already withdrawn successfully towards Chihkiang. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Shaoyang (80,52)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 43799 troops, 552 guns, 158 vehicles, Assault Value = 1328
Defending force 9268 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 343
Japanese adjusted assault: 905
Allied adjusted defense: 16
Japanese assault odds: 56 to 1 (fort level 0)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Shaoyang !!!

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

Japanese ground losses:
207 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 28 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 31 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Allied ground losses:
6117 casualties reported
Squads: 107 destroyed, 182 disabled
Non Combat: 100 destroyed, 129 disabled
Engineers: 23 destroyed, 1 disabled
Guns lost 7 (6 destroyed, 1 disabled)
Units retreated 1

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
40th Division
15th Division
13th Tank Regiment
3rd Division
116th Division
1st Mortar Battalion
51st Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion
15th Ind.Medium Field Artillery Regiment
14th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
13th Army
52nd Ind.Mtn.Gun Battalion

Defending units:
70th Chinese Corps


< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/20/2010 11:49:02 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 166
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/23/2010 10:32:37 PM   
johnjohn

 

Posts: 186
Joined: 9/18/2010
From: Arvada, CO
Status: offline 		Question: Do the various US Inf Div presently held in restricted commands ever get released? The political costs involved at this point are prohibitive, obviously by design. I spent 700 pps to get 23rd Inf formed in SoPac command, so it can be moved. My other divisions are out of reach pp wise. Thx, Johnjohn. (I still have 1100 pps to work with).

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 167
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/24/2010 1:18:20 AM   
wneumann


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

quote:

Question: Do the various US Inf Div presently held in restricted commands ever get released?

The ones that can be transferred (attached command shown in yellow), you will have to save up PP and spend them to transfer. The ones where the attached command is in gray cannot transfer at all - they're permanently located in the mainland US.

So far, I've been able to move only one division (Americal) outside the US, and that's only because two of the three regiments were already in Pacific Fleet command. I transferred the third regiment to Pacific Fleet, collected all three regiments of the division in Eastern USA, combined the regiments to form the division, and sent the whole lot off to Australia.

As it looks now, my plans are to concentrate my use of PP's as much as possible to get one US division at a time formed up and shipped out of the US. The next US division I have scheduled to go out is the 40th which now exists as 3 regiments, with all 3 regiments needing to be individually transferred out of the US West Coast command (at 700+ PP cost per regiment) to whatever front-line command coincides with where I intend to deploy the division. I'm expecting it to take a total of 8-10 weeks (5 or 6 weeks from my current game turn) to get all three regiments transferred to another command, collect the regiments together, combine them to create the 40th Division parent formation, then load the division up to ship it out to wherever.

And I'm assuming this time frame provided I don't have some emergency or other situation where I'll have to spend PP elsewhere for something else.

It's a slow process. Some of the later US Divisions arriving as reinforcements will enter the game in an assigned command where you can ship them directly out of the US without having to use PP to transfer them. But I don't think either you or I can afford to wait that long.

In your case, the 1100 PP is a start. I will suggest you do the Americal Division first since you only need to spend 700 PP or so to transfer one of its three regiments to Pacific Fleet (if you have not done so already) - as said earlier, the other two regiments of Americal are already in Pacific Fleet. Once all three Americal Division regiments are in Pacific Fleet command, you can collect them together in one location and combine them to create the full division.

< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/24/2010 1:19:02 AM >

(in reply to johnjohn)
Post #: 168
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/24/2010 1:28:49 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/22/42

New Guinea: Japanese capture Salamaua and Buna. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Salamaua (98,127)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 1575 troops, 10 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 42
Defending force 30 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 4
Japanese adjusted assault: 20
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 20 to 1 (fort level 0)

Japanese forces CAPTURE Salamaua !!!

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

Allied ground losses:
14 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Units retreated 1 (retreated to Wau)

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
7th Indpt SNLF Coy
8th Indpt SNLF Coy
2nd JNAF AF Unit

(7 & 8 Independent SNLF Coys entered the game as Jap reinforcements, no previous mention of either LCU in the known Japanese OOB)

Defending units:
D Coy/NG Rifles

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Buna (99,129)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 870 troops, 10 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 9
Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0
Japanese adjusted assault: 9
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 9 to 1 (fort level 0)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Buna !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker:

Assaulting units:
20th JNAF AF Unit (brought in from Japanese Home Islands)

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

All but several squads of D Coy/NG Rifles were removed from Salamaua prior to its capture. Elements from D Coy retreating to Wau have joined C Coy/NG Rifles – both units now have movement orders to proceed to Tarapo on the southern coast.

The two Australian LCU’s earlier pushed out of Port Moresby (Port Moresby Brigade and elements of 15 RAAF Base Force that did not evacuate to Cooktown before Port Moresby’s capture) are moving to an open hex on the southern coast of New Guinea. Plans are to pick up these units on the southern coast and evacuate by air to Cooktown.


DEI: Japanese capture Tjepoe (northern coast of Java W of Soerabaja) while advancing overland towards Soerabaja. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Tjepoe (54,103)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 12923 troops, 114 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 452
Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0
Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 0
Japanese adjusted assault: 63
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 63 to 1 (fort level 0)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Tjepoe !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker: op mode(-), leaders(-)

Assaulting units:
4th Division

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

Three unidentified Jap LCU’s now detected in Tjilatjap base hex. A Japanese ground assault against Tjilatjap should be imminent.

Two other unidentified Jap LCU’s detected moving eastward by land along the northern coast of Java towards Soerabaja.

Appears that Jap minesweeping ops in Batavia have finished. US sub S-37 (now the last remaining Allied sub in the central DEI sea area) remains at Batavia for the moment to possibly take one final shot at the Baby KB task force still in Batavia.

Two Dutch submarines remain posted at the entrance to Palembang.

Several US and Dutch subs are moving through the eastern DEI heading to Darwin. In general, Allied naval operations in defense of the DEI have almost completely wound down.

One Jap LCU is now detected in Medan base hex. No Japanese amphibious landing ops had been reported or detected in Medan. For the moment, the Jap LCU is believed to be 143 Infantry Rgt that landed at and captured Tandjoengbalai on 2/16/42, then marched on Medan from Tandjoengbalai along the coastal rail line.


Philippines: Japanese capture Aparri. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Aparri (82,73)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 41181 troops, 375 guns, 77 vehicles, Assault Value = 1453
Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0
Japanese adjusted assault: 769
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 769 to 1 (fort level 0)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Aparri !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker: op mode(-)

Assaulting units:
12th Division
24th Division
19th Division
9th Garrison Unit
HQ 2nd Air Division (also transferred from Kwantung Army)

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

The six remaining US fleet subs operating in the Philippines have been recalled to base for replenishment and further orders. US LCU’s now holding coastal base hexes near Lingayan and Iba have been issued movement orders to fall back on Lingayen and Clark for eventual withdrawal via Clark Field into Bataan. Manila is being prepped for evacuation.


Malaya: 275 ships now detected in port at Singapore (+5 from last report), again no report of detected Jap LCU’s in Singapore.


Indochina: Multiple Sigint report entries (including one for 2/22) have placed HQ Combined Fleet in Saigon since 2/11/42 – Pillager having transferred this HQ to Southeast Asia from the Japanese Home Islands.

For now, I’m not currently attaching any significance to Combined Fleet HQ’s location in Indochina beyond the fact that is does add to the naval support capacity for IJN fleet operations in Southeast Asia and adjacent theatres. This conclusion I'd consider for now is that Pillager temporarily deployed Combined Fleet HQ here to augment IJN operations off Malaya and in the DEI and will eventually move it elsewhere, keeping the location of this HQ positioned to coincide with and support the main emphasis of Japanese naval operations.


Burma: Detected Jap LCU (probably Jap 33rd Division) remains in the adjacent hex S of Magwe.


India: British surface ASW force attacks Jap submarine off Trivandrum. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Trivandrum at 26,45

Japanese Ships
SS RO-33, hits 2

Allied Ships
AM Cromer
AM Cromarty

SS RO-33 is sighted by escort

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


China: One reported ground action E of Sian along the Sian-Nanyang road. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 84,43 (E of Sian)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 18510 troops, 161 guns, 92 vehicles, Assault Value = 661
Defending force 10828 troops, 81 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 319
Japanese adjusted assault: 298
Allied adjusted defense: 571
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), op mode(-), leaders(+), fatigue(-)
experience(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
312 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 17 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 19 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
537 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 61 disabled
Non Combat: 3 destroyed, 26 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 3 disabled

Assaulting units:
15th Tank Regiment
61st Infantry Brigade
26th Division

Defending units:
36th Chinese Corps
96th Chinese Corps

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


Manchuria: An interesting “factoid” on Pillager’s movement of Japanese LCU’s transferred from the Kwantung Army to other locations (outside of China)… they seem to be departing Manchuria via Port Arthur. A number of Sigint report entries (at different times) have placed a number of Japanese LCU at Port Arthur before they appear again elsewhere (i.e. this phenomena so far includes the entire Japanese invasion force landing at and capturing Aparri).

While it would be tempting to send a US fleet sub or two off Port Arthur to take a pot shot or two at transport ships departing from there, the possible (and unlikely) reward of hitting a transport with a 90% dud rate torpedo could be outweighed by the reward of not giving away that I “know” this (Port Arthur as a departure point for sea movement of Jap LCU’s from Manchuria). It’s a long way to send a sub from Pearl Harbor to Port Arthur, not to mention any existing US sub with range to operate near Port Arthur is unlikely to do anything terribly useful once it gets there.

For now, this “secret” is more useful remaining a secret until I find something really useful to do with it. What Pillager doesn't know I know won't hurt him until later on.




< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/24/2010 1:31:23 AM >

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 169
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/24/2010 4:33:25 AM   
Sheytan


Posts: 863
Joined: 11/28/2006
Status: offline 		India and Burma. That type of force concentration in Malaya cant be a overkill strategy to simply overrun Singapore. If it is hes really snared himself, because it will be a logistics and planning feat to disperse them to disparate areas to fight. Which is why I am assuming it is India and Burma.

quote:

ORIGINAL: wneumann

johnjohn,

Strategic movement by rail is very handy wherever you can do it. Unfortunately it's often not available in places where you really need or want to use it.

quote:

The PI is falling, and I have started pulling out the fighter squadrons via withdrawal. Mainly trying to save the pilots.

My thought has been to save the pilots as well, and I pretty much did. Though the one thing about withdrawal is you're gonna lose the planes, so you might as well lose them in combat (you may shoot down a Jap plane or two with luck) before withdrawing the surviving pilots. Given that, my PI fighter squadrons basically fought to the last (operational) plane before I withdrew them.

One little FYI on withdrawing the PI fighter squadrons, they re-appear in Sydney with a full complement of P-40's though still with a withdrawal date of 3/42. You could find that handy.

quote:

Have abandoned Rangoon area except for fighters. Am going to pull the AVG back to Mandalay once the enemy comes


Keep in mind withdrawing the AVG squadrons to India will require a PP expenditure. Plan accordingly.

The most valuable thing about playing the AI is learning the game mechanics - actions and activities you can do, the amount of time needed to do different things and how to do them. Basically it's a good test drive of AI as long as you remember the tactics and strategy you employ playing the AI will at best be less effective against a human Jap opponent, at worst suicidal.

quote:

Sounds like pillager is getting serious (just as you predicted).

The only reason Pillager "wasn't serious" is that he diverted most of the IJ Army outside of China into Malaya to get Singapore. 60+ Jap LCU's in the final assault there pretty much describes Singapore in Pillager's list of Japanese priorities. Now with Singapore in Japanese hands, Pillager will be making up for lost time. Only a matter of where he's planning to go next and how long it takes to move Jap LCU's out of Singapore to where he's going. No question his pace of attack is definately going to step up.



_____________________________


(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 170
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/24/2010 10:43:14 PM   
wneumann


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

The possibility of Pillager launching a concentrated Japanese offensive towards India and Burma can't be discounted, though he did not attempt a move beyond Burma in our previous CHS match.

Several things I can more or less accurately account for with what is going on in Singapore...

(1) Many of the 60+ LCU's Pillager sent into Malaya were sub-units of divisional formations. A significant number of Jap LCU's that ended up in Singapore have since been combined into a parent formation (division). So far, the Japanese 4th, 5th, 18th, Imperial Guards and 48th Divisions have been formed in this manner.

(2) All five of the aformentioned Jap divisions have appeared on Java, moved there from Singapore. Two tank regiments from Singapore are also with the Japanese ground forces on Java.

(3) The presence of 200+ transport ships in Singapore base. He's moving at least most of the LCU's out of Singapore by sea. I have subs operating in the Malacca Straits and there's been no reported contact between these subs and any kind of large-scale Japanese sea transport movement towards Burma or India. Though I do expect him to reinforce what Japanese ground forces are now in Burma with additional units from Singapore via sea transport - this movement, however, would be on a more modest scale.

(4) I don't expect a large force of Japanese LCU's from Singapore to end up in the Philippines. So far, Pillager's invading the Philippines primarily with Jap LCU's transferred from Manchuria (specifically the 12th, 19th and 24th Divisions as of now).

While I am preparing in India, the move I'm more expecting Pillager to make will be a repeat of his invasion of NW Australia (i.e. Darwin) that he did in our last game. This happening once he finishes overrunning the DEI. If he's looked at all at the Allied side in AE (and I'm assuming he has), he is very likely aware that the Allies have considerably less forces at their disposal to defend NW Australia than the Allies have available in India.

One of the things I've done playing both WitP and so far in AI is keeping a record on all known LCU's in Japanese OOB, including last known location and the date (game turn) they were at a particular location. Actually, I've found tracking the location and movement of Jap LCU's can provide considerable insight into the general direction of a Japanese player's strategy, also occasionally providing more detailed information at the theatre level and below. Even if you don't know the whereabouts of Jap naval and air forces, the location and movement of Jap LCU's often provide a basic picture (or better) of what a Japanese player (AI or human) is up to.


< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/25/2010 3:33:52 PM >

(in reply to Sheytan)
Post #: 171
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/25/2010 3:19:29 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/23/42

Central Pacific: SS Narwhal reports contact with Japanese surface ASW south of Kwajalein. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Ailinglaplap at 132,118

Japanese Ships
PB Ikunta Maru
PB Fukui Maru
PB Santos Maru

Allied Ships
SS Narwhal

SS Narwhal is located by PB Ikunta Maru

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

Sigint report entry for 2/23 indicates heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Truk. Jap radio activity at Truk could be related to the presence of the KB in Truk or its departure from Truk. This development follows the reported contact by SS Stingray with a Val dive bomber near Truk on 2/21. If true, it has to be considered the KB could be making an appearance in the South Pacific theatre sometime in the next 5-6 days.

Naval search flights from Suva to the N and NW have been increased. Also two patrol groups of US subs are in place – one (fleet subs) in the area S of Truk, the second line (S-class subs now operating from Auckland) along an arc north of Suva and Pago Pago.


Australia: Jap submarine attacks Dutch mine laying TF returning to Brisbane after completing operations at Koumac. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Brisbane at 101,160 (due E of Brisbane)

Japanese Ships
SS I-173

Allied Ships
CM Rigel, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage (sunk)
CMc Pro Patria
DD Van Nes

SS I-173 launches 4 torpedoes at CM Rigel
DD Van Nes fails to find sub, continues to search...

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


DEI: Japanese capture Tjilatjap. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Tjilatjap (51,102)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 26636 troops, 261 guns, 84 vehicles, Assault Value = 970
Defending force 2400 troops, 18 guns, 1 vehicles, Assault Value = 49
Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 0
Japanese adjusted assault: 398
Allied adjusted defense: 15
Japanese assault odds: 26 to 1 (fort level 0)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Tjilatjap !!!

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), op mode(-), leaders(-), preparation(-)
fatigue(-), morale(-), experience(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
38 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 3 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Units pursuing 1 (1 Tank Rgt)

Allied ground losses:
1589 casualties reported
Squads: 69 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 54 destroyed, 11 disabled
Engineers: 2 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 17 (17 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Vehicles lost 1 (1 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Units retreated 1
Units destroyed 1

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
48th Division
1st Tank Regiment (recently arrived on Java from Singapore)
18th Division (parent formation recently created from sub-units participating in the Malaya campaign)

Defending units:
5th Coastal Gun Battalion (eliminated)
Tjilitap Base Force (withdrawing to Soerabaja)

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

Last remaining Dutch LBA bombers launch ground attack strikes against Jap 4th Division advancing on Soerabaja along the N coast of Java. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 4th Division, at 54,103 (Tjepoe)

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Allied aircraft
139WH-3 x 4
CW-22 Falcon x 6

Allied aircraft losses
139WH-3: 1 damaged

Japanese ground losses:
31 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x CW-22 Falcon bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 50 kg GP Bomb
2 x 139WH-3 bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 3 x 300 kg GP Bomb
3 x CW-22 Falcon bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 50 kg GP Bomb
2 x 139WH-3 bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 3 x 300 kg GP Bomb

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

Japanese ground attack on Medan. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Medan (46,76)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 3156 troops, 26 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 117
Defending force 4535 troops, 21 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 171
Japanese adjusted assault: 42
Allied adjusted defense: 47
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2 (fort level 2)

Combat modifiers
Defender: leaders(-), experience(-)
Attacker: leaders(-)

Japanese ground losses:
252 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 14 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 17 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
71 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 4 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
143rd Infantry Regiment

Defending units:
Medan Garrison Battalion
Van Aaran Garrison Battalion
Korps Marechausee Battalion
Medan Coastal Gun Battalion
2nd Garrison Battalion
Langsa Base Force
Sabang Base Force
Medan Base Force

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


Philippines: Japanese capture Tuguegarao on Luzon (base was occupied automatically, no ground assault).


Malaya: 187 ships detected in port this game turn at Singapore (-88 from last report), again no report of detected Jap LCU’s in Singapore. Pillager has likely accelerated his transfer of Japanese LCU’s from Singapore to other theatres, this drop in number of ships in port coinciding with the loading and/or a departure (from Singapore) of a major part of the Japanese "migration".


Burma: Detected Jap LCU (probably 33rd Division) has entered the Magwe base hex.


China: One reported ground action at Changteh. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Changteh (81,50)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 525 troops, 67 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 699
Defending force 55684 troops, 309 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1776

Japanese ground losses:
10 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
6th Division
39th Division
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
11th Army
4th Mortar Battalion

Defending units:
53rd Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
87th Chinese Corps
18th Chinese Corps
73rd Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
6th Construction Regiment
6th War Area
20th Group Army

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


< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/25/2010 3:30:53 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 172
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/29/2010 12:24:39 AM   
johnjohn

 

Posts: 186
Joined: 9/18/2010
From: Arvada, CO
Status: offline 		Just a quick update. The Japs snuck in behind the Cruiser patrol off Luganville and grabbed it. They have sent numerous TF to Efate, where each has been sunk by two other SF patrols. One patrol, Captain H. Good (CO "New Orleans" taking command of squadron after Ise, a CL and 2 DD showed up and sank flagship (Minneapolis killing Rear Adm Shafroth) promptly returned fire, sinking both DD and damaging both the BB and the CL, though not seriously. Good then went north to Luganville, sank nine ships enroute. Going further north, he sank another 18 AK and Tankers, finally stopping north of the Canal. He returned to a heros welcome, replenished and is back at it. So far 30 AKs and TKs have been sunk, the advance halted, with intelligence now showing enemy interests in Milne Bay.

The mosquitos have grabbed some insignificant islands north of Suva, showing some interest in proceeding in that direction, but the Carriers are replenished and waiting. The remaining Jap CVs raided Canton Island, but quickly ran away when surface forces were sent into the area. The Bad: that raid caught the reinforcement force to Noumea with the 3 squadrons and sank it. the Good: It got nothing else.

Meanwhile base forces, engineers, defense battalions and other AA stuff has arrived in Noumea. The 23rd is enroute, heavily escorted and will arrive in a week. Fuel, supplies, and more Engineers and Raiders will arrive in a few days. Aussie DB and fighters flew in to Noumea. The Lex's survivors have transferred to Sara and York which are operating together from Noumea. The Hermes and Force Z are also operating out of Noumea, as is Warspite which has joined them. The flood of shipping to Luganville is regularly being sunk. The swordfish on Hermes are proving quite good at this. It is Feb 20 and things are looking up in the Pacific.

However, Singapore finally fell yesterday. Clark field went too. The Japs are on Java, but bottled down. Since the AI has the carriers elsewhere, my surface force remnants are causing them significant loses. That cant continue, of course, but for now it is slowing them down. They are also moving toward Burma. I have pulled everything back to Mandalay and intend to fight a delaying action. The AVG went back to China. They are not hitting my meager AF anymore. In China everything seems to be a stalemate for now. That will change, but what can one do? So far so good.

Unfortunately I lost the Aussie brigades in Malaya. Rats. I did get the companies out of Lae, et. al. and they are now added to the Aussie Brigade at PM. At PM some Banshees and P40s are making life interesting for the Japanese reinforcement effort. I am getting at least one ship a day. I still have the LARK and BF trying to find a safe heaven to hole up in so that I can try and fly them out. That is not going too well. So I fly in what supply I can and hope they can get away.

On the logistics front, Noumea, Auckland, Sydney, Perth, Suva, and Pago-Pago are being built up. I have lots of fuel and supply at all of these bases. What I need now are planes and engineers. They are arriving, but.... So the US Carriers are it. For now.

BTW--your heads up on the Hornet's air group was right on. I will need to upgrade the DBs soon. She is enroute to Pearl at the moment, but is still a couple of weeks away. Hanging in there, doing the best I know how to do while learning this game. Johnjohn.

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 173
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/30/2010 1:29:42 AM   
wneumann


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

On the logistics front, Noumea, Auckland, Sydney, Perth, Suva, and Pago-Pago are being built up. I have lots of fuel and supply at all of these bases. What I need now are planes and engineers. They are arriving, but....


About early-war construction in forward bases... This probably won't mean that much as long as you're playing vs the AI but is certainly more true against a human Jap opponent - until you're certain that you can hold a particular base against a Japanese attack, build nothing but fortifications there. If you can't defend a forward base where you're doing construction, any port or airfield improvements you do at that base will merely be handed over to your Japanese opponent when he captures it (and he'll no doubt be grateful). Building fortifications in these bases not only yield no benefit to a Japanese opponent capturing the base (the fortifications are destroyed in combat) but it also adds to the time, effort and forces required by your opponent to take the base from you. Constructing fortifications can probably be adequately handled by the engineer elements belonging to combat unit LCU's already in the front lines.

Any engineer LCU you're moving forward might be better used in construction at a rear-area base instead of being sent immediately to the front lines, not to mention these units are kept out of harms' way until such time as the Japanese advance slows down and the front stabilizes (engineer and base LCU's don't tend to do well in a combat zone). For the locations you're speaking of, maximizing port and airfield facilities at rear-area bases in Australia (Perth, Brisbane, Townsville) and New Zealand (Auckland, maybe other locations) will increase your capacity to support operations in forward areas including construction you do later on of airfields and ports at forward bases. The major exception to this rule is the DEI where you can't get the Dutch engineers out anyway and (mostly) all there is to do with them is stuff as many of them (Dutch engineers) into the bases with major oil production & refineries (i.e. Palembang, Soerabaja, Balikpapan, Tarakan) to blow up as many oil wells as you can in these bases when your Japanese opponent capture them (he'll love having to do reconstruction work on the oil facilities in order to keep the KB adequately fueled up, not to mention other things).

Basic philosophy on port and airfield construction - start in the rear, then build your way forward. Keeps your engineers out of trouble and you're creating an orderly, uninterrupted path of logistics from the homeland into the different theatres and then into the front lines without leaving unintentional gaps in your lines of communication. And you're not handing over the results of your construction projects to a Japanese opponent.

Otherwise... you're getting in some decent practice with combat ops. Not that you'd want to repeat your escapades against a live Japanese opponent (but that's later on).

(in reply to johnjohn)
Post #: 174
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/30/2010 1:38:13 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/24/42

Pacific theatres: All sectors reporting quiet this game turn. Naval air search and submarine patrols are watching for any sortie of the KB into the South Pacific, if recent information has correctly placed the KB at Truk.

A coastwatcher report for this game turn indicated 16 (unidentified) Japanese ships are at Rabaul. If the KB actually is at Truk (or is just now leaving Truk), two possible moves for the KB I'm currently estimating is either (1) a sweep of South Pacific sea areas to the east of Auckland and south of Suva and Pago Pago, or (2) a sweep of the Coral Sea in support of a Japanese amphibious force moving from Rabaul.

Beyond taking the common-sense precautions, I’m not seeing either move by the KB as more than a disruption of Allied ship movements in affected areas. In the case of Tulagi, I've had Force N (ANZAC surface naval force including 2 CA, 4 CL, 1 DD) in a “holding pattern” to the S and SE of Tulagi – this TF will need to move clear of any KB sweep through the Coral Sea.


DEI: Jap ground forces continue pushing eastward from Tjilatjap towards Soerabaja. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 51,103 (W of Djokjakarta)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 690 troops, 0 guns, 103 vehicles, Assault Value = 58
Defending force 886 troops, 4 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1
Japanese adjusted assault: 13
Allied adjusted defense: 5
Japanese assault odds: 2 to 1

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), op mode(-), leaders(+), leaders(-), morale(-)
experience(-)
Attacker: leaders(-)

Allied ground losses:
449 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 42 destroyed, 12 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Units retreated 1

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
1st Tank Regiment

Defending units:
Tjilitap Base Force

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

Last remaining Dutch LBA bombers (6 CW-22 Falcons, 4 139-WH) continue ground attack strikes against Jap 4 Division advancing on Soerabaja along the N coast of Java. Very minor disruption of Japanese LCU elements resulted. This exercise in futility will do more to burn up supply points (keeping these out of Pillager’s hands) than any casualties the air strikes inflict on the Japanese 4 Division – and even that’s not much.

Jap ground forces also advancing on Soerabaja from Banjoewangi (southeastern Java) capture Loemadjang (S of Soerabaja). AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Loemadjang (56,106)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 7451 troops, 73 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 278
Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0
Japanese adjusted assault: 80
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 80 to 1 (fort level 1)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Loemadjang !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker: op mode(-)

Assaulting units:
65th Brigade
33rd Infantry Regiment

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

Light Jap ground attack air strikes on Dutch LCU’s in Palembang. Minor Dutch casualties reported.


Malaya: 183 ships detected in port this game turn at Singapore (-4 from last report), no report of detected Jap LCU’s in Singapore. Multiple unidentified Jap TF’s detected in Singapore port hex.

British sub attacks Jap transport TF in the Straits of Malacca near Medan. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Tandjoengbalai at 47,77 (E of Medan)

Japanese Ships
AK Sado Maru, Torpedo hits 2, heavy damage (reported sunk)
CL Isuzu
SC Ch 14
AK Sagami Maru
DD Oshio
SC Ch 27
SC Ch 15

(Japanese TF above reported to include 12 ships and moving on a NW heading, possibly from Singapore with Rangoon a possible destination.)

Allied Ships
SS Trusty

Japanese ground losses:
23 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 3 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 1 (1 destroyed, 0 disabled)

SS Trusty launches 6 torpedoes at AK Sado Maru

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


Burma: Japanese capture Magwe, kicking out British rear-guard. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Magwe (57,47)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 12805 troops, 120 guns, 32 vehicles, Assault Value = 443
Defending force 371 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 19
Japanese adjusted assault: 401
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 401 to 1 (fort level 0)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Magwe !!!

Combat modifiers
Defender: leaders(-), experience(-)
Attacker:

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

Allied ground losses:
376 casualties reported
Squads: 12 destroyed, 7 disabled
Non Combat: 14 destroyed, 7 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Units retreated 1

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
33rd Division

Defending units:
10th Burma Rifles Battalion

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


China: One reported ground action along Nanyang-Sian rail line. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 84,43 (E of Sian)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 18436 troops, 161 guns, 92 vehicles, Assault Value = 658
Defending force 10369 troops, 81 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 276
Japanese adjusted assault: 402
Allied adjusted defense: 442
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), op mode(-), leaders(+), experience(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
186 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 7 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 27 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Vehicles lost 9 (1 destroyed, 8 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
543 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 29 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 20 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Assaulting units:
61st Infantry Brigade
15th Tank Regiment
26th Division

Defending units:
36th Chinese Corps
96th Chinese Corps

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

Japanese ground forces advance to cut the Liuchow to Tuyun rail line outside of Liuchow. Though Chinese LCU’s are also in this hex, this development will result in accelerating the pace of Chinese withdrawals in southeastern China (Pakhoi and nearby Chinese-Indochina border) as line of communication to this region is now threatened with being cut entirely by the latest Japanese advance.

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 175
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/30/2010 1:42:31 AM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/25/42

Australia: A squadron of 6 Dutch PT’s from Timor arrived in Darwin, two of the six PT’s with moderate to heavy sys damage resulting from the TF having run out of fuel during the approach to Darwin.

Plans are for the PT’s to remain in Darwin for local defense mainly because their movement range (370 mi) is insufficient to move them very far beyond Darwin without bringing in a larger ship from the outside to travel with with the PT’s and refuel them at sea during movement. Darwin is currently within striking range of G4M Bettys known to be based at Koepang.


DEI: Japanese amphibious landing at Medan. Pillager is using this landing to bring LCU reinforcement into Medan to reinforce the attack of Jap 143 Infantry Rgt which had been stopped by Dutch defenses in Medan in the initial Japanese assault on 2/23.

Ships in the Japanese landing TF were fired upon by Dutch coastal batteries in Medan. Two Jap transport ships were hit by gunfire, one significantly damaged. AAR’s follow. The Japanese amphibious TF in the AAR’s below is also the same TF attacked by British SS Trusty in the Malacca Straits last game turn (2/24) and another Jap AK from this TF reported sunk in that attack (no doubt reducing the combat strength of Japanese 16 Infantry Rgt once ashore at Medan).

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Invasion action off Medan - Coastal Guns Fire Back!
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

50 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Japanese Ships
CL Isuzu, Shell hits 1
DD Oshio
AK Hirokawa Maru, Shell hits 1
DD Satsuki
AK Sagami Maru
SC Ch 27
SC Ch 15
SC Ch 14
APD Aoi

Japanese ground losses:
60 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 6 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

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

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Medan

TF 42 troops unloading over beach at Medan, 46,76

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

20 troops of a IJA HMG Squad lost from landing craft during unload of 16th Infantry Rgt

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Invasion Support action off Medan - Coastal Guns Fire Back!
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

32 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Japanese Ships
CL Isuzu
DD Satsuki
DD Oshio
AK Hirokawa Maru, Shell hits 3, on fire
SC Ch 27
DMS W-11
SC Ch 14
SC Ch 15
APD Aoi

Japanese ground losses:
36 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 5 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Invasion Support action off Medan
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

22 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Japanese Ships
AK Hirokawa Maru, Shell hits 5, on fire
DMS W-11
SC Ch 15
AK Sakura Maru, Shell hits 1
DMS W-10
SC Ch 27
SC Ch 14
APD Aoi
DD Oshio

Japanese ground losses:
18 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 3 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

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

Dutch LBA bombers (6 CW-22 Falcons, 4 139-WH) continue uncontested ground attack strikes the Japanese 4 Division advancing on Soerabaja. Minor disruption of Japanese LCU elements resulted from this attack.

Light Jap ground attack air strikes continue on Dutch LCU’s in Palembang. Minor Dutch casualties reported.


Philippines: Last five US fleet submarines in the Philippines are now departing Manila and Atimonan after refueling for patrol areas in the mid-Pacific. Subs are anticipated to operate along possible Japanese sea routes connecting the Home Islands and theatres in the South Pacific as long as their on-board fuel supply and torpedoes permit, then proceed to Pearl Harbor for replenishment and then join the main US Pacific Fleet.


Malaya: Detected status of Singapore base – 183 ships in port (no change), 23 Jap LCU’s, 130 aircraft (48 fighters, 33 bombers). No detected Jap TF’s in Singapore base hex.


China: Ground combat action reported the Liuchow-Tuyun rail line outside (west of) Liuchow base hex by Japanese ground forces attempting to outflank and isolate Chinese positions in Tuyun. This situation is likely to force a Chinese evacuation of Liuchow along with Pakhoi and the border region between China and northern Vietnam. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 74,54 (W of Liuchow)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 13961 troops, 124 guns, 69 vehicles, Assault Value = 481
Defending force 10111 troops, 125 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 361
Japanese adjusted assault: 199
Allied adjusted defense: 228
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2

Combat modifiers
Defender: leaders(+), experience(-)
Attacker: leaders(+), leaders(-)

Japanese ground losses:
700 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 34 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 38 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 16 disabled

Allied ground losses:
716 casualties reported
Squads: 8 destroyed, 73 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 42 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Assaulting units:
38th Division

Defending units:
31st Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
2nd Prov Chinese Corps
16th Group Army

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

Jap ground forces also attack along the rail line between Nanyang and Sian. The result of this action forces opens the supply route for Japanese LCU’s advancing towards Sian along this rail line. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 84,43 (E of Sian)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 18308 troops, 161 guns, 92 vehicles, Assault Value = 656
Defending force 9895 troops, 81 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 233
Japanese adjusted assault: 544
Allied adjusted defense: 187
Japanese assault odds: 2 to 1

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

Japanese ground losses:
358 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 21 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 36 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Allied ground losses:
3789 casualties reported
Squads: 341 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 132 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 6 destroyed, 9 disabled
Guns lost 1 (1 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Units retreated 2

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
61st Infantry Brigade
15th Tank Regiment
26th Division

Defending units:
36th Chinese Corps
96th Chinese Corps

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


Manchuria: Sigint report entries for 2/24 indicate two Japanese divisions (8th and 23rd) are now located at Port Arthur. Based on previous observations I made and posted here concerning Pillager’s possible use of Port Arthur as a departure point from Manchuria for Japanese LCU’s being transferred from Kwantung Army to other theatres, a possible conclusion could be made that these two divisions may about to be or have already been transferred from the Kwantung Army and their movement out of Manchuria is pending. A good test of this theory. Now we will have to watch Sigint, AAR and other reports to see where the Jap 8th and 23rd Divisions turn up next.


< Message edited by wneumann -- 11/30/2010 1:45:05 AM >

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 176
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 11/30/2010 10:10:05 PM   
johnjohn

 

Posts: 186
Joined: 9/18/2010
From: Arvada, CO
Status: offline 		Thx for the advice. I am wondering why I am having the success that I am with surface forces. I know they are not invincible, but they are causing alot of havoc, although that is because I knocked out half the KB. A real player would concentrate and pound. As of now, the AI does not have the resources available to do that. So my learning experience is affected by that fact. I can develop the bases mentions earlier simply because the enemy does not have the force to interfer. A real player would and I am sure that I would be right where you are, looking at bases even further back than these. My hope, at this point, is too equip each base with sufficient DBs and fighters to force a determined effort to take them away. I am tired of the 25 guys stumble out of the surf and take the place syndrome. BTW, I recently read that taking Noumea, Suva, Pago-Pago was the original plan for Japan, a plan abandoned after Midway and the loss of the four fleet carriers there. (Hopkins: The Pacific War, pp 95)

What i have been doing, is basing DDs and DMs at Efate, Tanna, Koumac and Rossel Islands. So far, no enemy air bases anywhere close, so they are safe from air attack. These ships have turned away several potential attacks (the mosquitos) allowing the patrolling heavier units to clobber them. Somehow, this seems wrong. But it is working. Of course, I dont have enough ships to do this everywhere, so I pick where I would go if I was them. And I remember how the ant farm went right around my patrols and took all three bases, Efate, Tanna, and Koumac after securing Luganville in my first attempt before the computer upgrade. I fear this may be "gamey".

Yesterday, my planes based on Canton (VMF 211 w seven cats, and VMB something with 18 SBD2s turned away a seven ship attack in three waves while the defending surface forces were chasing a feint toward Jarvis and Christmas Island (Halsey at Leyte anyone). Hence, do the same everywhere else became the plan. However, what I don't know and will not experience in this learning experience is what a real player would come with to take a base from me. It seems to me that would be the KB (at least 4 CVs if not all 6), a BB bombardment force, a cruiser screen, and at least a division or more of LCUs.

But to not defend at least one of the bases is merely to hand them over to the 25 guys coming over the beach. And if one is to defend them, what is the right mix of forces? At Noumea I have 2 Marine battalions, a USN base force, a USAAF force, and 1 construction BN. Enroute are two more Marine BNs, one raider, one para, a coastal Arty unit, a seabees BN, the Marine Air Wing base force, and finally, the 23rd Infantry Division as well as five air squadrons (One DB and 2 fighter). The smaller units will go to Efate, Koumac and Tanna eventually. The idea is to make this area strongly defended by aircraft and ground forces. That will allow me to move the cruisers and tincans, as well as the two carriers based here to other places. Finally, the CV force Z group will go back to Perth. Of course, this is only possible because the enemy lost two carriers and had two others heavily damaged in January. I dont think this is a true representation of what is possible against a real player, but it is what I have to work with at the moment.

BTW--your intelligence effort makes lots of sense. I am trying it too--but so far only once have I anticipated what is coming. I am still counting on the Catalinas to keep me informed. That works some of the time. This rest of the time I get hit. Johnjohn

PS--If I could give medals, that Captain H. Good would definitely be decorated. Simply amazing patrol.

(in reply to wneumann)
Post #: 177
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 12/1/2010 3:45:20 PM   
johnjohn

 

Posts: 186
Joined: 9/18/2010
From: Arvada, CO
Status: offline 		Feb 27 update. Intelligence confirms that CV Hiyru also sunk in carrier battle. Three CVs sunk. CVL escaped with some damage. It is now four to three and I still have half of Lex's air group.

The ants keep coming. Now focused on undefended islands near Milne Bay. I cannot use the ship at the base defense there. The Bettys at Rabaul reach with torps. So, after reflection, I have decided to write NG off, unless I can hold PM with what is there. That is not likely. So I will start removing the forces there soon, too. Meanwhile several divisions Aussie are in Cairns, Townsville area already. Planning to move the 41st and 27th there after 40th goes to Suva. I have 2000 pps now, almost enough to activate the 40th.

Still learning what my forces can do. And I am still watching what you are doing and learning from that too. I appreciate your warnings, since I think I may be inclined to be aggressive and do not want to be too aggressive. What I have learned from the history of the war and playing several different War in the Pacific games (all table top but for WitP) is that killing the Jap carriers is the key to defending and then winning when the initative turns toward the allies and the material superiority the allies enjoy. All I am doing now is trying to defend my important bases along the supply route to Australia and keep the ants from taking everything else that does not have troops assigned. Mainly I am trying to get a good handle on the logistics involved since this level of logistical support is new to me ( ie, not built in). I know a real human Jap player would not have done what the AI did nor would have given me the opportunity to take out half the main carrier fleet in January. But, since it did, the build up of late 42 and early 43 is just getting started a little sooner. I hope I manage it well. It looks daunting, and this is just the tip of the iceberg so to speak. If I screw this up, it will be a real mess when even more needs to be organized and moved later in the war. Meanwhile, good luck and good fighting against Pillager. I am rooting for the allies. Johnjohn

(in reply to johnjohn)
Post #: 178
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 12/3/2010 11:51:48 PM   
wneumann


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

What I have learned from the history of the war and playing several different War in the Pacific games (all table top but for WitP) is that killing the Jap carriers is the key to defending and then winning when the initative turns toward the allies and the material superiority the allies enjoy.

Absolutely correct. Add to that the survival of as many of your own carriers as possible.

What your game vs the AI appears to be giving you is a pretty good sample of how the US carriers and their pilots are capable of behaving in action. As you said, it would be different against a human Jap player but much of this experience vs the AI is still good, especially a vaulable opportunity to see your carrier pilots and "hardware" in action and what their Japanese counterparts can do. The major difference being you'd face the KB as a whole compared to facing it piecemeal. Within that... what you're seeing can be quite useful.

It's also allowing you to get a head start on the Allied (particularly US) buildup 6 months to a year before you might otherwise be able to do vs a human Japanese player. Nothing wrong with that, it's all good. Against a human Japanese player, the timing, locations (bases) where you'd be doing your buildup, and the first objectives of your Allied offensive will likely be different. Still, you're practicing the mechanics of the build up process "hands on".

(in reply to johnjohn)
Post #: 179
RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 12/3/2010 11:57:38 PM   
wneumann


Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline 		Summary of Operations 2/26/42

Hawaii: An unescorted US transport ship approaching Hawaii was torpedoed and sunk NE of Pearl Harbor in a night attack. An ASW task force had been dispatched from Pearl to merge with and escort the AK into Pearl Harbor, however, the transport was attacked and sunk before the escorts could reach it. Cargo loaded aboard xAK Panaman was 3200 resource points to be used as input for light industry at Pearl Harbor. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Pearl Harbor at 183,102 (NE of Oahu)

Japanese Ships
SS I-2

Allied Ships
xAK Panaman, Torpedo hits 2, heavy damage (later sunk)

xAK Panaman is sighted by SS I-2
SS I-2 attacking on the surface

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


Central Pacific: Unidentified Japanese TF(s) detected S of Eniwetok (hex 128, 110), number of ships, composition and heading not known. Sigint report entry for 2/26 indicated heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from this hex location.

SS Tarpon reports contact with Jap transport TF between Truk and Ponape. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Ponape at 117,112 (WNW of Ponape)

Japanese Ships
DD Hagikaze
xAK Miyadono Maru
xAKL Tama Maru #2
DD Natsugumo

Allied Ships
SS Tarpon

SS Tarpon launches 4 torpedoes at DD Hagikaze

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

Sigint report entries for 2/26 indicates a heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmits at Truk, plus a lighter volume of Jap radio transmits from Wotje.


Australia: US and Dutch submarines leaving the DEI are now arriving at Perth, most with minor “wear and tear” system damage. These subs will refuel in Perth, then continue to Melbourne/Sydney where it is planned they will operate from Australia mainly in the Southwest Pacific area.


DEI: Dutch sub K-XV detects Japanese TF off Makassar (hex 65,107). Jap TF consists of at least four ships and moving on a W heading.

Jap fighter sweep over Soerabaja, also a small raid (7 Ki-21 Sally) against Soerabaja airfield. No significant damage from Jap bombing raid. AAR of fighter sweep follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Soerabaja , at 56,104

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid spotted at 45 NM, estimated altitude 17,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 7

Allied aircraft
B-339D x 19
CW-21B Demon x 9
75A-7 Hawk x 12

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-339D: 4 destroyed
CW-21B Demon: 1 destroyed
75A-7 Hawk: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
2 x A6M2 Zero sweeping at 15000 feet

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


Japanese amphibious TF completes disembarking at Medan under fire from Dutch shore batteries. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Invasion Support action off Medan
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

24 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Japanese Ships
AK Hirokawa Maru, Shell hits 1, on fire (additional damage to this ship from gunfire hits last game turn)
DMS W-11
DMS W-10
SC Ch 27
SC Ch 15
SC Ch 14
APD Aoi

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Invasion Support action off Medan
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

44 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Japanese Ships
AK Hirokawa Maru, Shell hits 6, on fire
DMS W-11
DMS W-10
APD Aoi, Shell hits 3, on fire
SC Ch 27
SC Ch 15
SC Ch 14
DD Oshio
CL Isuzu

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

Japanese troops reinforced by LCU’s landed from this amphibious TF launch a ground assault on Medan. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Medan (46,76)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 8838 troops, 54 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 304
Defending force 4491 troops, 21 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 171
Japanese adjusted assault: 147
Allied adjusted defense: 59
Japanese assault odds: 2 to 1 (fort level 2)
Japanese Assault reduces fortifications to 1

Combat modifiers
Defender: leaders(-), morale(-), experience(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
631 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 46 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 20 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
701 casualties reported
Squads: 3 destroyed, 43 disabled
Non Combat: 5 destroyed, 43 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Assaulting units: (both 16 & 24 Regiments arriving from Singapore aboard this Amphibious TF)
16th Infantry Regiment
143rd Infantry Regiment
24th Infantry Regiment

Defending units:
Medan Coastal Gun Battalion
Korps Marechausee Battalion
Van Aaran Garrison Battalion
Medan Garrison Battalion
2nd Garrison Battalion
Sabang Base Force
Langsa Base Force
Medan Base Force

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


Dutch LBA bombers (6 CW-22 Falcons, 4 139-WH) continue uncontested ground attack strikes the Japanese 4 Division advancing on Soerabaja. Minor disruption of Japanese LCU elements resulted from this attack.

One unidentified Jap LCU detected in Malang base hex (eastern Java, S of Soerabaja).

Light Jap ground attack air strikes continue on Dutch LCU’s in Palembang. Minor Dutch casualties reported.


China: No reported ground combat action. Light Jap ground attack air raids.


< Message edited by wneumann -- 12/3/2010 11:59:48 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)
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