tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19316018248055255922024-03-18T19:48:55.764-07:00Shaman's Wargames"Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-38573175385319367992013-02-23T13:13:00.000-08:002013-02-24T20:00:28.756-08:00Marengo Scenario 7 with Carnage and Glory II.Once again Tom Garnett and Keith Rocco hosted a game of Marengo. This was Tom's 7th scenario of the battle of Marengo <b>"First Battle of the Consular Guard" June 14, 300pm.
</b> These guys have put together a string of excellent games. I remain very pleased with how the games are run and the pleasant atmosphere that is created
.<br /><br />
The Austrians initial plan was to consolidate its troops from the varied entry points and then advance eastward through the center of the field. I was given command of Brigade Gottesheim with 6 to 8 squadrons of dragoons. In the Carnage and Glory rules, my command was divided into 3 command elements. These were named 573, 574, and 575. The Austrians essentially had 2 divisions and an advanced guard. <br /><br />
The French won the initiative, but gave it to the Austrians. I advanced on turn one in an effort to uncover the tree line to the north. This tree line was against a water obstacle and appeared to have battalions of French infantry hiding behind it. This would be a major obstacle to the advance of 2 brigades of Austrians. By pushing forward, I was able to see around and down the tree line so that no suprises would be present. This helped my teammates push forward faster. Fortunately, no enemy troops were positioned behind the trees and "creek". I divided my forces a small bit to force an isolated french battery to make some difficult decisions and have some of my command outside of their arc of fire. So at this point in the game, I have advanced 1/3 of the way across the board to cover the advance of my trailing infantry command. I tried to be cautious, but it turned out that I wasn't cautious enough.<br /><br />
The French cavalry arrived on board during their part of the turn. GDP Duvigneau's command was commanded by Chris Maine who ran them out to support the battery.<br /><br />
Subsequently, the French once again won the initiative. Chris aggressively (and it turned out appropriately) charged with 2 of his commands. I had ordered countercharges and so met his troops at the gallop. Interestingly, 2 pass throughs (aka draws) occurred. Unfortunately for me, one of my commands (2 of my dragoon squadrons) retired to the board edge as a result. This left both the French and Austrian cavalry commands back to back on the center of the board. It also uncovered by supporting infantry behind me.<br /><br />
On turn 3 Chris then carried his charge forward and struck the Austrian infantry. He had 6e and 8e dragoons carry this out. The French hit the front ranks of the Austrian line and drove back one battalion and crippled another. The French cavalry were severely depleted in both manpower and fatigue and were ineffective for the rest of the game. Bluntly, thr French cavalry did not need to be effective anymore as they essentially won the game by turn 3.
I had very limited choices myself. I had the battery in front of me and one more French cavalry command adjacent to it. Behind me was the chaos that Chris was inflicting with his dragoons. I ordered charges for a second straight turn. The 2 commands of my dragoons pushed forward and simultaneously met the charging chassurs and hit the isolated battery. The commands named "573" hit the French chausseurs and the battery on the right was overrun by the "575". These charges were not difficult decisions to make as I was isolated and threatened by these commands to my front. My cavalry was able to create a draw against the chausseurs and overran the battery.<br /><br />
By turn 4, I was effectively done. The combination of the fatigue created by the charges and the losses created with the charges and cannister had destroyed my commands willingness to fight. My Brigade was forced to retreat due to brigade morale issues. I watched the rest of the game as an observer and performing mandatory movements toward my own board edge. It looked like very little entertainment was left. But in the middle of the turn, as the French dragoons were retreating toward their lines after roughing up the Austrian infantry, the dragoons took a pot shot from the 12lb position guns in the center of the Austrian line. As part of the casualties, any attached officer was wounded. Just like that, Napoleon died from canister which struck him in the head. The general was attempting to rally these retreating dragoons in what should have been a harmless event.<br /><br />
Additional morale issues cleaned out lots of troops for both sides on turn 4. This morale collapse included my command as it received mandatory retreat orders.<br /><br />
Turn 5 saw the French set up a line in the wheat field. The Austrian and French had a stand up fight in the middle of the field. Evidence of the brittleness of the Austrians continues as line troops start to retreat/rout without taking siginificant casualties. My last unit retreated off the board.<br /><br />
Turn 6 saw the the Austrian attack peter out as the morale fell below the acceptable threshold. The consular guard initiated a charge in the center of the table. Brigade Frimont had to repulse the French dragoons, but was not able to do so. Part of the cavalry fell back and the 1st kaiser fought to a draw/pass through. Unfortunately this was not good enough. Now the rest of the infantry in the center of the line was threatened by the French cavalry.<br /><br />
At turn 7, the Austrians decided to consolidate their position. By this time, the game was fairly obviously decided and so the Austrians decided to try to form up and try to inflict casualties. Unfortunately morale issues kept the Austrians from doing this well.<br /><br />
Turn 8 saw everyone trying to fire without increasing fatigue except the French consular cavalry who charged the center again and collapsed the Austrian center. The Austrians felt at this point that their only way to win the game was to increase the importance of Napoleon dying. Despite our protests that the death of Napoleon was stragegically of great importance, the game gave the victory to the French.<br /><br />
This was another good game with great people. The French did well with their game plan. Chris made an excellent decision to charge into the mass of advancing infantry. His command was ruined, but he effectively won it for the French. The charge by the cavalry was able to not only force the Austrians to deploy and keep them from getting to the board edge, but it also created huge fatigue and morale issues. In fact it created one of those miserable gaming experiences that no one wants to ever put up with. One of my teammates gaming days could be summerized in the following paragraph.<br /><br />
Dave entered on game two while a charge was going on in front of him. He was struck by this charge on turn 3 and was unable to repulse the cavalry. One of these battalions routed of the board. On Turn 4 he resumed his march but had to march through rough terrain and so continued to accumulate fatigue. As a result, on game turn 6 he was told his morale had collapsed and he could not move closer to the enemy. He had 2 turns of one of his battalions firing, but this was the limit of his participation. Not a great way to spend your day.<br /><br />
The Austrian command lost 2000 men. My "575" dragoons (squad iii) took home battle honors for its draw in a charge and subsequently overrunning the French battery. All of this is hollow, as essentially one charge dictated the game. Chris made the tactical choice of the game and won it with the associated ripples. Well played my man.
"Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-1237893759748403312013-01-26T22:16:00.001-08:002013-02-01T16:12:47.653-08:00Figuring out LubinoBarclay was furious. <i>" Go back to your post," he stormed, " and get yourself killed ! If you come back I'll shoot you ! "- General Barclays answer to Tuchkov's request for reinforcements.</i> (Foord page 172)
<br /><br />
EDITORS NOTE: I have sent out two posts about Lubino (Valutina Gora)to active napoleonic forums with hope of enlisting aid from any direction. I havent gotten lucky enough to get any Russian speaking/reading contributors to expand my resources yet. If I do I will certainly amend this post.<br /><br />
Immediately after Smolensk, the French army had a chance to catch up with the last 1/3 of the retreating Russian army 8 to 10 miles to the east of Smolensk. The battle has an
impressive number of names: Lobino, Loubino, Valutina Gora, Valuotina-Gora, Sacred Valley, Lubino, Waloutina-Gora, Stragan Brook. This makes it difficult to find all the sources on the web.<br /><br />
On the evening of August 18th, 1812, General Baron Barclay de Tolley withdrew his army from north and east of Smolensk after the fight for that town 2 days earlier. The General divided his command into 2 columns (a northern and southern column) to try to evacuate the region faster by using 2 roads/tracks that went through the countryside parallel to and north of, the Smolensk-Moscow Road. If he had used the Smolensk-Moskow road, as General Bagration had already done, Barclay would have been under the risk of artillery fire and organized pursuit for the first few miles of the journey. Instead he tried to use the terrain and a strong rear guard to mask his departure along a more circuitous route. Unfortunately, despite an apparently sound plan, decidely poor staff work and that very same terrain conspired to really impede his march through the woods northeast of town. The northern column, containing General Doctorov's command took off first and marched off to the north and then to the east to link up with Bagration without significant problems. This northern column was essentially marching in a large arc away from Smolensk .<br /><br />
The second "southern" column, took the "inner arc". These troops, under command of Tutshkov I, took a route that was more "northeast" and turned at the wrong crossroads in the middle of the overnight march. This route brought them back into the vicinity of the pursuing French commands who were looking to restore contact with the retreating Russians. When Barclay recognized the mess, he promptly turned the column back to the correct route, but the wasted time was already gone, and the stolen night march was now a detriment due to the fatigue of the Russian troops.<br /><br />
The French cavalry and infantry units followed all roads out of Smolensk, and ran into the Russian rearguard formations on all of them. The road leading out of Smolensk to the north, headed to St. Petersburg, was guarded by the rearguard of the columns led by Korff III. General Grouchy's cavalry pushed up this road, but Korff III was able to fend them off. There are apparently 2 other tracts that lead northeast that either contained the Tutchkovs line of march or intersected with it. Down the more easterly track came the French pursuit led by part of Neys command and Nansouty's cavalry,which formed the French advanced guard. This mixed force ran into the previously misdirected Russian "southern" column (Tutchkov) outside of the village of Gorbunovo. Prince Eugene of Wurttemberg was immediately tasked with keeping Ney away from the intersection. At roughly the same time Ney also ran into a detachment of Russians on the newer Smolensk-Moscow road that was parallel to the Dneiper River. Ney chose to send his troops west after this second command which was headed to Moscow rather than push harder toward Gorbunovo to see what Russian forces were located there
.<br /><br />
This decision created a race between the Russian columns traveling along the poor back road tracks traveling north of Valutino-Gora, and the French advance guard traveling on the Smolensk-Moscow "highway" south of Valutino-Gora also going west to east. The Russians were very aware of their dangerous predicament, the French were unknowing participants in a race that could cripple the Russian 1st Army of the West.
<br /><br />
The Smolensk-Moscow road was a large well made road that was probably the best these armies would see in Russia. General Bagration had left a modest rear guard under Prince Gortshakov to act as his rearguard and link to the 1st Army of the West (Barclays command). Bagration had ordered this command to stay in position until the 1st Army "relieved" it. Prince Gortshakov had a command of 10 battalions from the 2nd Grenadier division and 8 squadrons of cavalry from the 7th Corps stationed astride this road that was to stay in place until the 1st Army's columns arrived. Additionally, Barclay realized that his line of march was within easy march of the French and so he also sent troops under the command of Tutchkov III to act as a blocking force at the base of the Valuntina-Gora. As instructed, Prince Gortshakov withdrew along the Moscow road when he became aware of the arrival of Tutchkovs blocking force at 8am. This adherance to orders had the unwelcome consequence of leaving only Karpovs cossaks located on the Pruditchevo heights behind to augment the 3200 men that had just arrived.<br />
For the scenario that I wish to develop, this is where I will start the action.<br /><br />
On the board will be the Russian command of Tutchkov III.<br />
Initial order of battle will be:<br />
<b>3rd Division </b>III Corps<br />
MG Tuchkov III<br />
Revel IR (2 battalions)<br />
20th Jagers (2 battalions)<br />
21th Jagers (2 battalions)<br />
Elisabethgrad Hussars (8 sqrds)<br />
1 Horse battery<br /><br />
The French will enter with:<br /><br />
<b>11th Infantry Division </b>GbD Razout<br />
Infantry Brigade: GdB Compere<br />
Portugese 2nd Line (1 battalion) <br />
Infantry Brigade: GdB Joubert<br />
4th Ligne (4 battalions) <br />
18th Ligne (4 battalions) <br />
Intantry Brigade: GdB d’Henin<br />
93rd Ligne (4 battalions) <br /><br />
7th Hussars
<br /><br />
The question that is yet too be answered is, "When do the other units arrived and what was the real Russian OOB?"
"Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-3027914723290030972012-01-15T19:37:00.000-08:002012-09-07T12:37:09.493-07:00Carnage and GloryKeith Rocco and Tom Garnett co-hosted a game from a fragment of the battle of Marengo. I am suspicious that Chris will post a photo collage on his website. I will just post a small fragment.
I was both overall commander and given the static defense of the two build up areas, what follows is my after action report as seen thru the eyes of my assigned engaged units<br /><br />We retired after the actions of June 13th for a much earned rest. Our days of marching and sharp fighting with the Austrians seemed to have them on the run.<br
/>My demi-brigade, the 101em, had been posted in the villas along the La Bromide river. The 1st Battalion deployed in Storiglionna, and the 2nd Battalion was posted on the road from Morengo at Pedrabona. The 44em demi-brigade was posted in line of battle between these 2 areas. <br /><br />On the 14th, the morning routine was interupted by our vendettes returning with reports of the whole Austrian army marching down the Marengo road. Soon thereafter the Austrians arrived led by a battery of light guns. They deployed these guns and 3 battalions of infantry soon after set up a significant skirmish line around Pedrabona. We survived a 1 hour bombardment and constant musket fire. I requested relief repeatedly during the bombardment, but none would be forthcoming. We could see the Austrians were able to push down the road and turn the 44me northern flank. This succeeded in opening the road east to Marengo.
As I saw the 44me retire, retreating and wheeling to the south,I felt it prudent to withdraw as well.<br />Around 930am, the 2nd battalion/101me, retreated in good order from the building after losing 50 men and repulsing the initial attacks against the walls. The Austrians were significantly delayed by these actions of my command as they tried to set up their attacks. During our retreated we were harassed constantly by Austrian cavalry and we took significant casualties as we marched through the vineyards to the northeast. Ultimately the cavalry veered away and we could finish our retreat to Barbolia.
"Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-77430738728191799682011-12-12T19:44:00.000-08:002011-12-12T20:57:33.720-08:00A lost game.....I found these pictures in my computer recently. They are from a game that ended before a conclusion could be created. I only post them as eye candy. In large part because the terrain makes the figures look better then I am used to seeing them.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjghiUe2sGd4MhStLgZgn9lcD17buqhyphenhyphen0oXmZXDxs31I0K9lBsWF2HKIkkUnbiShHDDJirRwtRiVrre_FPMFKDLJBY6Ct3D22Ji-7kjLgUrCUBbVtGG8rnhg0EDnM5iyBOO0IdjN-vlcQ/s1600/100_4617.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjghiUe2sGd4MhStLgZgn9lcD17buqhyphenhyphen0oXmZXDxs31I0K9lBsWF2HKIkkUnbiShHDDJirRwtRiVrre_FPMFKDLJBY6Ct3D22Ji-7kjLgUrCUBbVtGG8rnhg0EDnM5iyBOO0IdjN-vlcQ/s400/100_4617.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685456324832972162" /></a><br />This is the head of the Austrian column marching toward the row of hills<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRnwJzBaI2YTxTHHphYXv2zQXXv-BLji6U2d-JbduQO6h5Irjc5TSV7s7wFU5-pRPrvH6JEhgihaZVIMlYDqlE2sonG8xRD4w4biL7V-6ZrGIbx3cq8r9qRhinwkJ0wQs78L5vuTPWg/s1600/100_4628.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRnwJzBaI2YTxTHHphYXv2zQXXv-BLji6U2d-JbduQO6h5Irjc5TSV7s7wFU5-pRPrvH6JEhgihaZVIMlYDqlE2sonG8xRD4w4biL7V-6ZrGIbx3cq8r9qRhinwkJ0wQs78L5vuTPWg/s400/100_4628.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685456306775457714" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLJXU58HyHDflYHJwR0pMt2hCBrvfj21U7bhBaTkF31aKMSDRudlxRgEGXAAyT6Bjtc-rOteMpyysLGqxtytU_05v46Bsew6AEo2kr_RdMgY_nmClGlDzX3enI0ENwvU_ts9pg-KtFAQ/s1600/100_4639.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLJXU58HyHDflYHJwR0pMt2hCBrvfj21U7bhBaTkF31aKMSDRudlxRgEGXAAyT6Bjtc-rOteMpyysLGqxtytU_05v46Bsew6AEo2kr_RdMgY_nmClGlDzX3enI0ENwvU_ts9pg-KtFAQ/s400/100_4639.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685464788828897858" /></a><br /><br />This is the bulk of the Austrian column. I love the large Austrian commands. They look as intimidating as hell. Quantity has its own beauty. Notice the battalion guns.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCqx2cyO8hyphenhyphenb1ycYJRS65GJKKdB9DVt-2tsL_wWBkHCGsblA7trAap2AoUf8-Zu1bV6lklGBOjxU9N_u46Ftgs3DYkYWAeRQMCD40OrFNCQkgdHdojbyPmwv1DYaDegEot8HKFjKqvTw/s1600/100_4603.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCqx2cyO8hyphenhyphenb1ycYJRS65GJKKdB9DVt-2tsL_wWBkHCGsblA7trAap2AoUf8-Zu1bV6lklGBOjxU9N_u46Ftgs3DYkYWAeRQMCD40OrFNCQkgdHdojbyPmwv1DYaDegEot8HKFjKqvTw/s400/100_4603.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685456301686205826" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsZf8p0PreOD-F2IxQQCHV3JSpwjG5iba1pXCWKcAAyF2XXZkQnbFOlPk6x5UcI7wKfbeX9dKHkrpipWBOrUBjfva1Rm9J1XjNCQFIKInAQPEb9nhSI1pxeUsivpB1eIUMFyoQvg9tjw/s1600/100_4611.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsZf8p0PreOD-F2IxQQCHV3JSpwjG5iba1pXCWKcAAyF2XXZkQnbFOlPk6x5UcI7wKfbeX9dKHkrpipWBOrUBjfva1Rm9J1XjNCQFIKInAQPEb9nhSI1pxeUsivpB1eIUMFyoQvg9tjw/s400/100_4611.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685456322058917602" /></a><br />These were 2 of the small contingent of French that was supposed to stop this Austrian onslaught. I always seem to give walls too much credit as the French battalion behind this wall was eventually pushed back from this defensive strong point. The officer apparently was of little use in exhorting his command to remain in place.<br /><br />These 3 pictures below are from the French center and right wing. Below is what the French see attaking them. The 5 battalions of Austrians facing the house made absolutely no headway.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjljRZbQnshyphenhyphenf4bPbuZ9hdtE8B4wMRCQqJCCR7YncjLYDywLvyYyYI0lbsKcvH4YKUkj8wklwADDOsRoBzcs8Ho0otevs8SysB22GBvuNxBoT15fXEhQHUiziRdncEec8yrhmdjiA5ehQ/s1600/100_4634.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjljRZbQnshyphenhyphenf4bPbuZ9hdtE8B4wMRCQqJCCR7YncjLYDywLvyYyYI0lbsKcvH4YKUkj8wklwADDOsRoBzcs8Ho0otevs8SysB22GBvuNxBoT15fXEhQHUiziRdncEec8yrhmdjiA5ehQ/s400/100_4634.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685464779215118450" /></a><br /><br />What the Austrians see of the French Right Flank, hiding in buildings and behind a fence.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHPQhbapC9ZEIdLbMxCuf9lYIMIiPV6oERltTR4uUmO3CsZZZBQpZmBoaEFhAYPHcpi0dak0pWBGE1GwiVm2QMdtBeeuUAkplaPeYBVjtnEUeck_63ncAT_CD0NUkZXdMPKzIdh9JeEw/s1600/100_4606.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHPQhbapC9ZEIdLbMxCuf9lYIMIiPV6oERltTR4uUmO3CsZZZBQpZmBoaEFhAYPHcpi0dak0pWBGE1GwiVm2QMdtBeeuUAkplaPeYBVjtnEUeck_63ncAT_CD0NUkZXdMPKzIdh9JeEw/s400/100_4606.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685464774443227554" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oy2jnE4-oWtV-9O77CDV22HUCtbCdbJYKDRnu5icHPaKISHkAodn1hVjFlFy5AlhyLBqT4KDx-3u4r3AgWFqAfpw8QIhwD99L77UWGW_EWIeQkTMGsgAt7ZkI4GlzSe_v8K554GaGQ/s1600/100_4604.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oy2jnE4-oWtV-9O77CDV22HUCtbCdbJYKDRnu5icHPaKISHkAodn1hVjFlFy5AlhyLBqT4KDx-3u4r3AgWFqAfpw8QIhwD99L77UWGW_EWIeQkTMGsgAt7ZkI4GlzSe_v8K554GaGQ/s400/100_4604.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685464770137621778" /></a><br />Above is the French cavalry in the center of the line. They didn't scare the Austrians much.<br /><br /><br />Now to get flags for my Austrians"Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-84653555526965491512011-12-01T17:02:00.000-08:002013-02-01T16:08:24.235-08:00Possibly the first time ever.....As far as I can recall, I have never had a game decided "completely". There was always alot of "as I see it","what if"...and "yes, but" discussions that would go on at the end of games as each side tried to show what more would happen if more time existed.<br /><br />Not this game.<br /><br />It was a bit of a meeting engagement, a bit of a set piece battle that was based on the premise of a retreating Russian army having to stop outside a village and hold their ground. No more retreating! In this scenario, the rest of the Russian army was retreating and needed to have the town in the bottom right corner held so that the bridges (off board) could be used to get across the river. The French of the other hand had tried to cut off the retreating Russians and would arrive spread out across the game board. Each side would essentially be trying to condense the front towards the "right" of the picture,<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7a-rwZnpwIz-yAcFO_gkCK9vL_sNKFZjngKU1KL8wJxdAwkDiOqszA-mbNiVxNBR6Ve52k8L06JxMbTmKoXSU82VIXsRq5uKeyATJe3pimxUKNV-xOyRjDM879DiVpwCrPJqOl1w7ww/s1600/General+de+Brigade+Fight.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7a-rwZnpwIz-yAcFO_gkCK9vL_sNKFZjngKU1KL8wJxdAwkDiOqszA-mbNiVxNBR6Ve52k8L06JxMbTmKoXSU82VIXsRq5uKeyATJe3pimxUKNV-xOyRjDM879DiVpwCrPJqOl1w7ww/s400/General+de+Brigade+Fight.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681333713153222770" /></a><br /><br />The French entered the board to the top of the picture and promptly moved straight forward. Around game turn 3, the French were able to engage across their entire front. On the left, the French light cavalry crashed through 2 Russian hussar regiments and a horse artillery battery before getting stopped by dragoons 45 minutes later. The Russian plan prior to this charge was to move from the far left entry road and take a cavalry division with trailing a infantry brigade as well as 2 batteries and reinforce the center. The French cavalry crushed the front of that command and took them out of the game. The Russian infantry did not even try to enter.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrvJtkZ0KYvkyLhoDQiIIt5vOqQiWWcSFwDgsRiF2oU54atNvh-0wyXUyEhxkniHPtDhCmXfRwpeRCiAY82w-DR9pYSFgxzLSb5M6ThIG5wBIym2lzhAHURDGPn34k6VUu0LfOCHsLA/s1600/Russian+Hussars+charging.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrvJtkZ0KYvkyLhoDQiIIt5vOqQiWWcSFwDgsRiF2oU54atNvh-0wyXUyEhxkniHPtDhCmXfRwpeRCiAY82w-DR9pYSFgxzLSb5M6ThIG5wBIym2lzhAHURDGPn34k6VUu0LfOCHsLA/s400/Russian+Hussars+charging.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681347744503304226" /></a><br />This shows the Russians trying to push through the French light cavalry screen. Notice the unformed 12 gun Horse Artillery.<br /><br />In the center, two French regiments marched against the Russian Combined Grenadier division deployed in depth and with a 12 lb battery deployed in split sections. By turn 5 the Russian guns were out of ammunition, one section overrun and a regiment with 3 battalions of Russians suffering significant losses. While the Russians grenadiers were being actively engaged along the entire front, the French Heavy Cavalry Brigade was in position to punish the Russian left of center with a charge across the whole front. The Russian grenadier battalion in front of the approaching French cavalry also was getting hit by artillery and musket fire, so forming in square was not an option. No doubt the Russian center was 2 turns from getting rolled up by a curaisser charge in the flank from the Russian left to right.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0tvQV3T6ReuejKZhy1wKeBAxNzlVP8vX0wj7nJkly7nr4bAaVeg7MSeVQwc4hWhZFguDki4x-sUHvLZBb3F1v6lzKs21p3ztRkhboNVxsiHtIjL7M74JwJNMd_4zdE2530VCPG8zjvg/s1600/French+Advance.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0tvQV3T6ReuejKZhy1wKeBAxNzlVP8vX0wj7nJkly7nr4bAaVeg7MSeVQwc4hWhZFguDki4x-sUHvLZBb3F1v6lzKs21p3ztRkhboNVxsiHtIjL7M74JwJNMd_4zdE2530VCPG8zjvg/s400/French+Advance.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681348765892660466" /></a><br />This picture is taken from behind the French advance against the Russian grenadiers in the center. The hill to the front would slow the French advance down the most.<br /><br />Now to the battle in front of the town on the Russian right flank. A French regiment of 5 battalions attacked 2 Russian regiments containing 12 battalions which was deployed in line in front of the town. The Russians were to hold this part of town until the other troops could arrive safely. The attached Russian battery had a wall behind which half of it was placed. Lots of damage should have been inflicted on the soon to be attackers. The French marched across the flat field, took 2 rounds of cannister and had one of the soon to be heroic battalions take 30 percent casualties. There certainly were casualties, but not along the lines of what both commanders expected. This French battalion then was able to charge home on the battery and destroy it, while also pushing back it supports. The French battalions on each side also were able to drive back the Russian battalions to their respective fronts, intermingling lots of retreating Russian battalions hopelessly in the streets.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IGhER2oqICkKYuXaui7o3ZtqTtW9jO-FPWYlJZTc-OBYt70lipsBTny8KOPfAuBTIH03M5ob2BnfYh-5rfoil1xCKGplUP_Lvw5_NmamL5TpY9mnM5EAA8VCQUfHIU_e26DX4PPwdA/s1600/Russians+defending+the+town.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IGhER2oqICkKYuXaui7o3ZtqTtW9jO-FPWYlJZTc-OBYt70lipsBTny8KOPfAuBTIH03M5ob2BnfYh-5rfoil1xCKGplUP_Lvw5_NmamL5TpY9mnM5EAA8VCQUfHIU_e26DX4PPwdA/s400/Russians+defending+the+town.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681346153561942066" /></a><br /><br />At that point "my wife called" and I said it was time to shut down the game. Keith, Tom, and Jack pulled off an amazing French victory; while myself and a few others who I will not name (to protect their reputations) showed uninspired leadership and found our Russian division crushed before it could safely arrive at the river. Another game of General de Brigade that finished in 10 turns or less. Forces involved were 3 Russian infantry divisions and a mixed heavy and light cavalry division. Many of which were never really engaged as they routed off the board.<br />The French had 3 regiments of 5 battalions each, 3 batteries and 2 cavalry regiments.<br />As a further foot note: many Russian battalions were "just painted". Perhaps this was the problem?<br /><br />This was possibly the first time that everyone looked at the battle field and said in a hushed embarrassed tone..."we should clean this up". Nobody had to dicker over who had won this battle.<br />I think it was unique in my wargaming experience<br /><br />I believe that other games/rules systmes may will have been less decisive. In fact, I wanted to try to play this using the Carnage and Glory system, but had no luck in getting myself organized enough to do it. Maybe next time. Lots of thanks to the participants!"Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-881871730071982422011-11-06T19:49:00.000-08:002011-11-06T20:18:30.194-08:00Maps of Saltanovka<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU5hNh9PzUS6MptY5FXnvpYWyuHkpOwzcWe7xTV09bDOjF9cSJ29oDeLKXp8whfyC65ZMowPe7fyxOndICpOlIoHmSSyqryLFjmlMyYgKJnE9D0FfhSv2jb5n8uSNciKS13Kl2H667Ow/s1600/Battle_of_Saltanovka_1812_map.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 234px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU5hNh9PzUS6MptY5FXnvpYWyuHkpOwzcWe7xTV09bDOjF9cSJ29oDeLKXp8whfyC65ZMowPe7fyxOndICpOlIoHmSSyqryLFjmlMyYgKJnE9D0FfhSv2jb5n8uSNciKS13Kl2H667Ow/s400/Battle_of_Saltanovka_1812_map.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672099822072503250" /></a><br /><br />I think the above map is the most helpful.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibTJLsUkuqpyDvRunIefERNj5gzVw7kNtQdLLCAe2xqA1sY66mE1JDeiuu3m8fJNvfc71upACU3Hi4XuddRQZuvifSlNo79VZkPh1oi74ymTf6AOqD_gjETlJn8Yce64jBCAq1CA3qg/s1600/saltanovkaone.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 218px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibTJLsUkuqpyDvRunIefERNj5gzVw7kNtQdLLCAe2xqA1sY66mE1JDeiuu3m8fJNvfc71upACU3Hi4XuddRQZuvifSlNo79VZkPh1oi74ymTf6AOqD_gjETlJn8Yce64jBCAq1CA3qg/s400/saltanovkaone.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672099812403445474" /></a><br /><br />Above is a more difficult to use map, but seems to confirm some of the concepts. Below is a map from Nafzinger.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJl0Izb51KxGsUgYzprKKKomG550aMPaumk___w1UYtpqC1ihIzCYTMrhW-zbiSp0L3ySwoO3rWMqN7GfkMgCPC53UlpBxl-GFsaMP54OC9pxbsjDbLr4XvT38ULdD5EQbvdXrw9HW0w/s1600/saltanovkatwo.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 287px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJl0Izb51KxGsUgYzprKKKomG550aMPaumk___w1UYtpqC1ihIzCYTMrhW-zbiSp0L3ySwoO3rWMqN7GfkMgCPC53UlpBxl-GFsaMP54OC9pxbsjDbLr4XvT38ULdD5EQbvdXrw9HW0w/s400/saltanovkatwo.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672099809720148162" /></a><br /><br />The above maps are what I have used for giving an idea of where the woods will be located on the map. John Snead has been kind enough to immensely help with some details of the version he ran Historicon. Hopefully mine can be nearly as good in my own way."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-70978592570298451112011-11-06T19:33:00.000-08:002011-11-07T05:10:23.467-08:00SaltanovkaI volunteered my army to the guys who run the C&GII games at Historicon for their refight of Borodino. In preparation, I have decided to set up a Saltanovka game for the local guys. As such, I have been researching what I can on Saltanovka from a variety of sources. Special thanks to Chris Maine, Jack Hixon, Paul Edgar, John Snead and all responders to my requests for help on a variety of web sites. <br />I had made some comments on other sites about the conflicting information that was out there. It remains a bit frustrating that talented writers can't agree on "facts". I can understand that opinions, or interpretation of facts, may be in complete disagreement, but to have units stated to be present and or engaged that didn't exist in that chain of command just seems silly.<br />I am also still looking for an answer as to why contemporary artists draw the map at a 60 degree angle from the Dneiper River, yet recent Google maps show it to be much closer to perpendicular. Included will be some of the maps and a useful OOB. After the game, I will go ahead and provide an after action report."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-39217032421922745572011-04-02T11:15:00.000-07:002011-04-02T11:44:02.332-07:00Carnage and Glory game at Keith's<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxIxKgcxRtQYasEHz1e6C0ICBSQtQ6SIbK-Zkn1kRMf0lMMmihnxDc2dBCs-54K98fqpc_K9KNC7PcIRDVEgwTd9nSiVpST0QwcnMEoUsokSc9vN_a15dv_SnP3ICC658mkVTEWfQBA/s1600/20110327_13%255B1%255D.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591053874976112242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxIxKgcxRtQYasEHz1e6C0ICBSQtQ6SIbK-Zkn1kRMf0lMMmihnxDc2dBCs-54K98fqpc_K9KNC7PcIRDVEgwTd9nSiVpST0QwcnMEoUsokSc9vN_a15dv_SnP3ICC658mkVTEWfQBA/s400/20110327_13%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a> <br /><br />The above picture is the start of a game from Keith's 15mm C&GII event the last weekend in March. It featured troops from the OOB of Sicile, and had the French attacking the prepared Austrian positions stationed below the town.<br /><br />The battle ended in a minor Austrian victory. <br /><br />The French attacked in force along the entire Austrian line below the town. The first line of the Austrian line was pushed back, but the Austrian second line was not particularly challenged. It was an easy game to play and a fair bit of fighting did occur. Ultimately, the game ended due to real life time expiring. I was the unfortunate owner of the Draggons, poised to make the big central charge, that was probably 2 turns away.<br /><br />I like the C&G system for a few reasons; at the end of the afternoon I haven't fried my brain doing math equations, the fog of war the system creates, and the implemenation of fatigue as a trackable variable on the battle field. I would however beg for a better system of using the system for large battles. Waiting for sequential event entry really can slow things down.<br /><br />However, in the end, I had a great time as Keith R can beally host a party."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-35336886587329275392011-03-03T20:48:00.001-08:002011-03-03T21:15:02.537-08:00HiatusSome stinking realty problems forced my recent hiatus. Nearly a year later, I have gotten back into a small roll on the gaming front. I have a nice little agenda I have tried to create and successfully implement.<br /><br />First, a local gaming store has relocated and it has provided a small impetus for me to get playing again, especially since they have a bit more tables, which will allow me to set up some real battles and recruit new interest. It also seems a local group who regularly meet on a typical work night for me has claimed many saturdays at this game store and will relocate some of their gaming up to my back yard. Yea! more people rolling dice!<br /><br />Secondly, I have had lots of fruitful contact with the RTE crew (Clarence and Barry) and I hope to be providing a good chunk of my forces to help their gaming weekend. This will hopefully get me to complete some of my basing projects and flesh out my OOB. I have a large but quite amorphous collection that really needs a unifying OOB for each army to give me a natural boundry at which I can (gasp) stop collecting. <br /><br />Thirdly, I had a great talk with a VERY NICE guy whom I drove down to the Williamsburg muster to meet, Rick O'Brien. He gave me an exhaustive amount of time on how to install the flags and had quick and apparently appropriate answers to my many either sophomoric and/or insightful questions. If it indeed proves that he moves up here to Virginia, then I expect I will enjoy inviting him up to play a fair bit of games. Creating a uniform look with my flags was/will be important to me moving forward with my collection. I will try to catch up with him again at Cold Wars. I suspect that if you many of you are aware he runs www.flagdude.com, and offers a very helpful and important, quality authentic looking flag with pole for your miniature units.<br /><br />Fourthly, I have had some fruitful discussions with 2 painters, both of which should be sending me more painted lead over the next few days. Nothing gets a game going quicker then reinforcements who need to be christened in battle. I really look forward to 6 new battalions of French legere, and a host of Russian cavalry. I expect now to have enough Russians to create way too many divisions.<br /><br />Lastly, I got an invite to play up at Keith Rocco's place to play some 15mm napoleonics later this spring. I will try to catch up with a AAR after the event. Before then, I will try to get a game of either RTE or CGII accomplished.<br /><br />I will look to post some more scenarios, now that I have time to contribute that as well."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-5206095276355736822010-05-05T07:27:00.001-07:002010-05-05T18:44:25.625-07:00Order of Battle for Friday2 Days until the game and I have yet to label the troops. However, I do have a detailed OOB now, and thats all that counts!<br /><br />I have put this information together so that the sheets are not only an OOB, but also the roster sheet with player information. There are some huge glaring problems, but I can't fix them til I read the rules again. Though not perfect, it has the majority of useful information I need. As a word of explanation, the "clumped" O-s are the areas that I keep track of killed. I mount 6 to a infantry stand (4 on cav/art) and the colon marks seperate the bases. For example the following shows a base of 6 figures immediately adjacent of another base of 6 figures<br /><br />000:000<br />000:000<br /><br />Hope it helps someone who sets up a game!<br /><br />Austrian Forces <br /><br />Cavalry <br />Commmander: Feldmarschall-Leutnant Baron Karl Leiberich Mack<br /> Poor leader<br /><br />Feldmarschall-Leutnant Archduke Ferdinand de Este<br />Poor leader <br /><br />3rd "Albert" Kuirassier Regt (Veteran) <br />00:00:00:00 <br />00:00:00:00<br /> <br />6th "Mack" Kuirassier Regt (Veteran) <br />00:00:00:00 <br />00:00:00:00<br /> <br />4th "Latour" Chevaulegers Regt (Veteran)<br />00:00:00:00 <br />00:00:00:00<br /> <br />6th “Rosenberg" Chevaulegers Regt (Veteran) <br />00:00:00:00 <br />00:00:00:00<br /> <br />Horse Artillery Battery (all Veteran)<br /><br />6 pdr gun <br />0 Damaged 00<br />0 Low Ammo 00<br /><br />6 pdr gun <br />0 Damaged 00 <br />0 Low Ammo 00<br /> <br />7lb howitzer<br />0 Damaged 00 <br />0 Low Ammo 00<br /><br />This the a page I hand to the commander. I have 8 more for this battle. Filling out commercial versions is somewhat lacking in familiarity.<br />This preparation is both the most rewarding and agonizing part for me!"Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-8188010172815892632010-04-21T19:16:00.000-07:002010-04-21T19:50:11.667-07:00Game preparationI have signed myself up to host a miniatures game for a batch of boardgamers. I have no doubt they have miniatures experience, I just believe they have less exposed then other crowds. Since I have yet to re-read RTE since my last post, I will be going back to using GdB. I figure to let each of the 4 to 6 people have a regiment or so of Austrian or French. I am expecting to have a blast.<br />I expect to try to model a game similiar in tactical situation to Haslach-Jungingen during the 1805 campaign. I'll look to give the French commands to the more mature and previously experienced commanders, let the Austrians have the rookies. I have the OOB posted below.<br /><br /><strong>Haslach-Jungingen October 11, 1805 : Orders of Battle </strong><br /> <br /><br /> <strong>Austrian Forces </strong><br />FML Baron Karl Leiberich Mack<br /> <br />FML Archduke Ferdinand de Este <br />3rd Kuirassier Regt* (480)<br />6th Kuirassier Regt (480)<br />4th Chevaulegers Regt* (480)<br />6th Chevaulegers Regt (480)<br />Horse Artillery Btty (6x 6pdr)<br /><br />Left Column<br />FML Prinz Karl Philipp zu Schwarzenberg <br />IR #8 : 3 bns (1800)<br />IR#11 : 2 bns (1800)<br />IR#20*: 3 bns (1440) Green<br />IR#54 : 2 bns (1200)<br />IR#54 : Grenadier bn (600)<br /><br />FML Count von Reisch <br />IR#15 : 3 bns (1800) +battalion 6lb guns<br />IR#17 : 3 bns (1800) +battalion 6lb guns<br /><br />FML Baron Franz Werneck <br />IR#18 : 3 bns (1800) +battalion 6lb guns<br />IR#36 : 3 bns (1800) +battalion 6lb guns<br /><br />Right column Reserve <br />IR#12 : 4 bns (2400)<br />IR#12 : Grendadier bn (600)<br />IR#24 : 4 bns (2400)<br />IR#24 : Grendadier bn (600)<br />IR#42 : 3 bns (1800)<br />IR#42 : Grendadier bn (600)<br /><br />*Denotes forces that recently took heavy casualties.<br /><br /><br /> <strong>French Forces </strong><br /><br /> 1st Infantry Division: Général de Division Pierre Dupont de l'Etang<br /> <br />1st Brigade: Général de Brigade Marchand <br />9th Légère Regt : 2 bns (1200) <br />32nd Ligne Regt : 2 bns (1320)<br /> <br />2nd Brigade: Général de Brigade Rouyer <br />96th Ligne Regt : 2 bns (1440)<br /> <br />Divisional Artillery: 2x 12pdr guns, 2x 8pdr guns, 2x 4pdr guns, and 2x 7" Howitzers<br /> <br />(Attached) Général de Brigade Sahuc <br />15th Chasseurs a cheval Regt (480) <br />17th Chasseurs a cheval Regt (480) <br />this brigade is dragoons, but I dont think I can represent dragoons with my current figures"Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-19907978431256797582010-02-14T19:15:00.000-08:002010-02-16T19:30:20.553-08:00I have purchased Republic to Empire (RtE) and read through it now 2 times. I think all the information that I will need to play is present, but I find that the author and I don't mesh well when it comes to organization. I can find absolutely no fault with the book or contents itself. I find the structure and content is helpfully comprehensive....I just guess that I could never guess what was coming next. Often times when you read rules, you have a good idea with what is due for explanation next. I found in this case that the book and I just didn't click. The way this game seems to be developed and refined probably has a bit of a learning curve and perhaps this is why I don't quite follow along quickly. I have found myself wishing to do the rewrite so that things are more intuitively useful for me. <br />I reread the above paragraph and find that I too am also a bit guilty of writing with a bit of a ramble also.<br />Lets just say that I read the rules, found alot of good insight and useful rules mechanisms, but felt like there are a bit of conventions that were assumed that I followed and which didn't need to be explained. I would just get lost.<br />As I read futher along, I did find the section at the end where the writer saves himself. Just like so many instances as I have done, the writer assumes that we will all just put some figs on the table and go at it, sorting out things as they come. In this case, he basically gives you a narrative account of a scenario, implementing the rules, explaining the die rolls etc, all in an effective After Action Report. Basically a written out version of our afternoon rules exploration games. I found that this helps to tie things together nicely; although a bit of better organizational writing may have done it earlier and made the section less necessary.<br />Please don't misunderstand, the book is written better then I would be able to write a rules book. I think it may well be the game that I use for Napoleonics. I just find again that I have to wait for and or tease out the small bits and pieces that don't appear until a bit later in the writing. <br />My concern is that finding the applicable rules during a game might take a bit longer due to my perceived organizational issues.<br />I have not played a game where PiPs are used, nor have I played where I don't count individual soldiers for firing purposes (in a Napoleonic game). I like both concepts. I am aware that Clarence Harrison will be running a game at Historicon. Perhaps I can get up there to play.<br />As a post script, I had problems with the mail delivering my rules, and I received prompt and effective response by both Barry Hilton and Clarence."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-85464732750876486622009-11-07T18:37:00.000-08:002009-11-29T19:41:32.413-08:002nd 1809 Scenario for French vs AustrianGebenbach April 11, 1809<br /><br />The Austrians were trying to find Davout's location north of the Danube and had pushed back the French cavalry from Hirschau earlier in the day. This "what if" suggests that the Austrians have continued down the road in pursuit of the retreating French cavalry.<br /><br /><strong>French Order of Battle<br /><br />1st Chassuers<br />33e Ligne 1st Battalion<br />111e Ligne 1st Battalion<br />2 x 4lb guns<br /><br />Austrian Order of Battle<br /><br />Advanced Guard of the II Corps<br /><br />Oberst Steffanini- commander of 7th Jager <br />7th Jager Battalion (800 men)<br />Mervelt Uhlans 2 squadrons (260 men)</strong><br /><br />Commetary and Map to follow....."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-8876081205510274622009-10-31T19:14:00.000-07:002009-11-05T19:21:00.009-08:00Scenario for 1809 French vs. Austrians"The Bridge at Reisensburg" <br />Northeast of Gunzburg<br />October 9th, 1805<br /><br />Scenario would appear to start at 730 p.m. 2 hours of game time before night stops the fighting. This seems to make little sense as October nights typically are "dark enough" to stop the fighting at about 7:30. Needless to say the actual game duration is 2 hours<br /><br /><strong>French Order of Battle<br />GdB Mathieu deLabassee <br />Col. Lacuee <br /><br />59th Ligne 1st Battalion (647 men) <br /> 2nd Battalion (647 men) see below</strong><br />The typical composition of these battalions was altered after the divisional general removed the Grenadiers company, which were then made apart of an ad hoc command that had been sent Southwest of Gunzburg. Consider playing the 59th Ligne Regiment without grenadiers represented on the table.<br />The troops were Veteran and the officers are above average.<br /><br /><strong>Guns available: 2 guns of 4lbs<br /> 4 guns of 8lbs<br /> 1 gun of 12 lb<br /> 1 gun of 6inch howitzer</strong><br />Four guns are helping the Ganzburg assault elsewhere. Leaving 4 guns to support the crossing at Gunzburg. As my sources do not help identify the composition of each battery, I would play with <strong>2 x 4lbs and 2 x 8lbs </strong>as the battery supporting this assault.<br />I would make the guns either average or veteran<br /><br /><strong>Austrian Order of Battle<br />FML Gyulai<br />IR 20 <em>Kaunitz-Reitberg</em> 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Battalions (ave strength 800)<br />Chevaulegers-Regiment <em>Rosenberg #6</em> was represented with 2 squadrons (150)<br />Ulanen-Regiment <em>Schwarzenberg #2</em> was represented with 2 squadrons (150)</strong><br />The infantry's elan and motivation has been questioned. I suppose below average/militia grade might be appropriate. The leader was also below average rating.<br />Austrian cavalry attacks were vigorous but ineffective; I would make them average to above average troop rating. They would certainly be considered light cavalry.<br /><br /><br />The battlefield is immediately adjacent to the Danube river. The best representation of the battlefield would be to have the French ("top") edge a "cannons width" of dry land. (Allowing the supporting French guns to be deployed.) The Danube river would then be represented by a river roughly 150 yards wide with a bridge through the center of the river. A main road leaves the bridge and heads straight overland to the opposite edge with a slight diagonal. I believe the whole of the table will be 1000 yards in each direction. On the Austrian right is a smooth contoured hill. No significant woods exist. The Danube is not fordable but is crossable at the bridge. Off the Austrian edge ("bottom") is the town of Gunzburg. <br />Point A is the road leading toward Gunzburg and is the ultimate objective of the French. <br />Point B is where the Austrian Cavalry will arrive 1 hour into the battle.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggFfUC_qSG8z9X7RMfKFJhZslOmLj0svoOeOe5WTWYeXEMA_c5y5RD4ZG_VHO0aA1qM083X_SdqpOzXdpN5KM-OXAL1w5ES-eraSN2_M0cMBlJUkQSWVUgrdDdU7L-keyhiF3hctkQg/s1600-h/Reisensburg+Bridge.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggFfUC_qSG8z9X7RMfKFJhZslOmLj0svoOeOe5WTWYeXEMA_c5y5RD4ZG_VHO0aA1qM083X_SdqpOzXdpN5KM-OXAL1w5ES-eraSN2_M0cMBlJUkQSWVUgrdDdU7L-keyhiF3hctkQg/s400/Reisensburg+Bridge.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399497849000823938" /></a><br /><br />Historically, the Austrians had literally just repaired the bridge so that Mack could extricate himself from Ulm, when the 59th Ligne arrived on the north bank. Seeing their tactical advantage, the French infantry charged across the bridge promptly. This charge was carried across the bridge and into the Austrian battalions which were placed in battalion lines, one stacked after the other. As the first line broke, the rest were interpenetrated by the fleeing front lines, and soon the whole group fled. The Austrian cavalry then tried to charge the French units, but were held off by the French squares. The French were quick to send reinforcements and were able to hold the bridgehead."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-71393329067647473052009-10-29T18:55:00.000-07:002009-10-29T19:05:17.407-07:00Ebay frustrationsJust an obvious word of warning. I just purchased an item from Ebay, and had the figures sent off to the contracted painter directly. Weeks later, the painter examined the supposed "dragoons" and found them to be cuirassiers and carabineirs. I really wish that people would take the time to either take good pictures or actually know what they are selling. I know that everyone makes mistakes, I just hate wasting time now deciding if I want to pay to have "unwanted" figures painted into troops I may never use. Its quite a big expense to pursue this endeavor. I hate the idea that I am paying FURTHER for these figures. <br />Obviously, this is just good sense to look carefully at the picture when you buy off of ebay. Be rewarned since I am sure you have been warned before."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-73582311679421103932009-10-20T15:39:00.000-07:002009-11-29T19:54:32.893-08:00Final turns before calling it quitsOn Turn 5 Kellerman had moved his cavalry regiments to the south side of the battlefield, towards the more open areas and to oppose the larger Russian Hussar Regiments. His horse artillery began firing at the formed Hussars comprising the Russian left flank, but no significant result was achieved. About the same time, Soult's lead division set up to assault the jagers behind the wall. An effective artillery bombardment began and a quite destructive charge would end up taking the position as the Russians could not get enough artillery in place to support the defense of the salient stonewall.<br /><br />The Russians continued to deploy along the road leading south out of the village. One of the Hussars looked to swing around further south to flank the French advance.<br /><br />Then the game took an ugly turn. The French artillery scored a 12 on a die roll which not only scored a catastrophic amount of casualties on the Jagers, but also killed the officer commanding the Brigade. The French Battalions crashed into the reeling Russians and routed the command, taking another Jager Battalion with it. Suddenly there was no Russian center. Yes, Russian Batteries were attempting to deploy to each side of the gap, but a quite detailed and well orchastrated French cavalry charge simultaneously struck the deploying Russian Battery that was located to the south. The ultimate effect was the Battery was overrun and the supporting Russian cavalry turned tail, effectively destroying the Russian Left. The game was called at that time. Ultimately a bunch of maneuvaring for what seemed to be only 6 to 8 die rolls that took over the game."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-87217522922584771322009-10-13T19:28:00.000-07:002009-10-13T20:32:03.465-07:00A couple hours of fighting......<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijTiI7i2RhDzOu2dWXgBLW0kM1XIakfxCbaJd_gTbdDwWWD5Jvf55apEEBgtiKWlps6fP2mx51dBOalaUHkJjXiB3-e6QSrPvdajPyeyyNVKrZAUItsYWzNOIgVxNNw1JtEjbc8Heteg/s1600-h/Napoleonic+005.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijTiI7i2RhDzOu2dWXgBLW0kM1XIakfxCbaJd_gTbdDwWWD5Jvf55apEEBgtiKWlps6fP2mx51dBOalaUHkJjXiB3-e6QSrPvdajPyeyyNVKrZAUItsYWzNOIgVxNNw1JtEjbc8Heteg/s400/Napoleonic+005.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392286033427598386" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji-IscwlscVZHLwPFvaI9PT9Lrk8J-z5fqyGOZY2XkFx0hq64M9Pk7mqqyUjIwHosjY1FjbZyeK7JbNtLgnennXA6BrZDOogrG8RfWLNqjWx4rUNBgojhtfmtlbjGuhP5x_N6DJkk_bg/s1600-h/Napoleonic+004.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji-IscwlscVZHLwPFvaI9PT9Lrk8J-z5fqyGOZY2XkFx0hq64M9Pk7mqqyUjIwHosjY1FjbZyeK7JbNtLgnennXA6BrZDOogrG8RfWLNqjWx4rUNBgojhtfmtlbjGuhP5x_N6DJkk_bg/s400/Napoleonic+004.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392285788321589330" /></a><br /><br />The beginning of the game finds the French command with Kellerman's 2 light cavalry regiments and horse artillery battery section arrive in front of the Russian lines. Russian requests for 2 batteries have hastened the arrival of Bagration's artillery arm. A southern column has arrived with the cavalry and artillery of Bagration's remaining troops. These look to occupy the road leading to the south of the village. So far the Jager battalion is happy to stay behind the wall. The French are not acting too concerned yet. More troops are expected apparently.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYa8oVPfwQUSrVFHqAaz5KrteLzDD0z6822Ko1izS8idpwMXCuRofVwPofZ_N66xPQ6Uo2dTi8ubaRCM_WC0JkxKGXD6sT0qc-XvtzzzecJMjt6odjhQKEVindShRUX7zK-Fi2CQZAw/s1600-h/Napoleonic+006.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYa8oVPfwQUSrVFHqAaz5KrteLzDD0z6822Ko1izS8idpwMXCuRofVwPofZ_N66xPQ6Uo2dTi8ubaRCM_WC0JkxKGXD6sT0qc-XvtzzzecJMjt6odjhQKEVindShRUX7zK-Fi2CQZAw/s400/Napoleonic+006.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392289001481545378" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrV46wiGvfK3gNrP7bHpevRXtKbLJz3q7X69oQ3zg8HAIcVLhd6FsPMr5GeUV3ytXrO9KQrv2jVwT14Oj5VTG5DdvTd1tVICq1MLrXR6BtuYAwRcCDwFV5iSdPJuRzOlv1wU1enLxIKw/s1600-h/Napoleonic+009.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrV46wiGvfK3gNrP7bHpevRXtKbLJz3q7X69oQ3zg8HAIcVLhd6FsPMr5GeUV3ytXrO9KQrv2jVwT14Oj5VTG5DdvTd1tVICq1MLrXR6BtuYAwRcCDwFV5iSdPJuRzOlv1wU1enLxIKw/s400/Napoleonic+009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392289475052003410" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JLBiT88JIIYmcaoH94cERT17oMtNhgHQMPVzNM_5m5gmx7BZhnTvlUnAuffyqYczSnt6BAx88YBYrNz3KrhC1ntCYzpnmXnk4l8sB0vT0-JilnE1rJyV6jF6BRaHWIetNwfK_B-9LA/s1600-h/Napoleonic+007.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JLBiT88JIIYmcaoH94cERT17oMtNhgHQMPVzNM_5m5gmx7BZhnTvlUnAuffyqYczSnt6BAx88YBYrNz3KrhC1ntCYzpnmXnk4l8sB0vT0-JilnE1rJyV6jF6BRaHWIetNwfK_B-9LA/s400/Napoleonic+007.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392289927666039698" /></a><br /><br />At the end of turn 4, its obvious that the French will look to punch thru the Russian line as far from the village as they can get. The Russians have the numbers advantage, so perhaps the French attack will be delayed until more manpower arrives. No firing has occured yet, just French cavalry scouting in front of the Russian lines and active Russian troop deployment and extension of their line south of the village towards the church. 3 French regiments of Soult's Division as well as 2 batteries have entered. A French feint seems to be brewing just outside of the village towards the west.<br /><br />From the Russian perspective, the line should be nice and strong, with combined arms and nice terrain features. Perhaps a bit more depth could be acheived, but more troops are expected."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-89222133927778524152009-10-11T20:08:00.000-07:002009-10-11T20:24:23.741-07:00Republic to Empire<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinh1Bbo5REPClN83hFouCFFWimxaSK08i-9Fz6UYY_sZjoXGEOTs0xLrDCvGTAXUIokgonQ8zHS9Lx2AZRGkHLBZAJeXwrndVsKKXfENxynSIn6dIF2n_BDZQloh0JyYeuiwKYTS5KpQ/s1600-h/French+dia+bases.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinh1Bbo5REPClN83hFouCFFWimxaSK08i-9Fz6UYY_sZjoXGEOTs0xLrDCvGTAXUIokgonQ8zHS9Lx2AZRGkHLBZAJeXwrndVsKKXfENxynSIn6dIF2n_BDZQloh0JyYeuiwKYTS5KpQ/s400/French+dia+bases.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391545778999221570" /></a><br />This picture comes from the League of Augsburg's website, link provided: http://www.leagueofaugsburg.com/fightingtalk/viewtopic.php?t=1918<br /><br />The bit of information posted about the game seems to be right in line with how I like to play. I will look to pick this up ASAP. <br /><br />The basing on these guys are awesome. I love the "mini-diorama" look. Don't get me wrong, the painting is fabulous. No doubt these are great games to look at and hopefully play. The League of Augsburg site is very entertaining. Drop by!"Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-45102474705251109492009-10-03T09:38:00.000-07:002009-10-03T09:45:24.748-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkNE79M18IrgGjOFcpJdARzZT_H6A0VU1WjsEe3qItL9erYCuwdMlOv-AMttAvxnklmQKpi8m5nC9tNsvAtITehH0zuBWIIe5MfHBpv2wV7nND2TTR7t2bB4woI0y8N8RDTM5Hc0R_GA/s1600-h/Deployment+from+West.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkNE79M18IrgGjOFcpJdARzZT_H6A0VU1WjsEe3qItL9erYCuwdMlOv-AMttAvxnklmQKpi8m5nC9tNsvAtITehH0zuBWIIe5MfHBpv2wV7nND2TTR7t2bB4woI0y8N8RDTM5Hc0R_GA/s400/Deployment+from+West.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388414658945064770" /></a><br />This is the initial deployment of troops for the game. The Russians are delaying the pursuing French Division. The French will come to grips with the Russians quickly.<br /><br />More to come after the fight."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-15695235667532673492009-09-28T18:44:00.000-07:002009-09-28T19:21:00.918-07:00Interesting article I found at Napoleonic Wargame Club's newletterI was looking for information about artillery and stumbled across this at the following link. The website for Napoleonic Wargames Club has not been updated in years, however their forum remains active. www.wargame.ch/wc/nwc/NWCNewsNov.html<br /><br />PROF. CLAUSEWITZ HAS VALUABLE LESSONS FOR BG GAMERS <em>(editor: perhaps all gamers)</em><br /><br /><br />By Capt. Francisco Palomo, Publisher: Pierre Desruisseaux, Secretary of State <br />Editor : Chris Wattie, 1st KGL Hussars, British Army <br /><br /><br />The full text of Clausewitz’s "Principles Governing the Use of Troops" is appended. I trust the membership will find it instructive:<br /><br />Principles Governing the Use of Troops<br /><br />1. If we cannot dispense with firearms (and if we could, why should we bring them along?), we must use them to open combat. Cavalry must not be used before the enemy has suffered considerably from our infantry and artillery. From this it follows:<br /><br />(a) That we must place the cavalry behind the infantry. That we must not be easily led to use it in opening combat. Only when the enemy's disorder or his rapid retreat offer the hope of success, should we use our cavalry for an audacious attack.<br /><br />2. Artillery fire is much more effective than that of infantry. A battery of eight six-pounders takes up less than one-third of the front taken up by an infantry battalion; it has less than one-eighth the men of a battalion, and yet its fire is two to three times as effective. On the other hand, artillery has the disadvantage of being less mobile than infantry. This is true, on the whole, even of the lightest horse artillery, for it cannot, like infantry, be used in any kind of terrain. It is necessary, therefore, to direct the artillery from the start against the most important points, since it cannot, like infantry, concentrate against these points as the battle progresses. A large battery of 20 to 30 pieces usually decides the battle for that section where it is placed.<br /><br />3. From these and other apparent characteristics the following rules can be drawn for the use of the different arms:<br /><br />(a) We should begin combat with the larger part of our artillery. Only when we have large masses of troops at our disposal should we keep horse and foot-artillery in reserve. We should use artillery in great batteries massed against one point. Twenty to thirty pieces combined into one battery defend the chief part of our line, or shell that part of the enemy position which we plan to attack.<br /><br />(b) After this we use light infantry – either marksmen, riflemen, or fusiliers – being careful not to put too many forces into play at the beginning. We try first to discover what lies ahead of us (for we can seldom see that clearly in advance), and which way the battle is turning, etc. If this firing line is sufficient to counteract the enemy's troops, and if there is no need to hurry, we should do wrong to hasten the use of our remaining forces. We must try to exhaust the enemy as much as possible with this preliminary skirmish.<br /><br />(c) If the enemy should lead so many troops into combat that our firing line is about to fall back, or if for some other reason we should no longer hesitate, we must draw up a full line of infantry. This will deploy between 100 and 200 paces from the enemy and will fire or charge, as matters may be.<br /><br />(d) This is the main purpose of the infantry. If, at the same time, the battle-array is deep enough, leaving us another line of infantry (arranged in columns) as reserve, we shall be sufficiently master of the situation at this sector. This second line of infantry should, if possible, be used only in columns to bring about a decision.<br /><br />(e) The cavalry should be as close behind the fighting troops during battle as is possible without great loss; that is, it should be out of the enemy's grapeshot or musket fire. On the other hand, it should be close enough to take quick advantage of any favourable turn of battle.<br /><br />4. In obeying these rules more or less closely, we should never lose sight of the following principle, which I cannot stress enough: Never bring all our forces into play haphazardly and at one time, thereby losing all means of directing the battle; but fatigue the opponent, if possible, with few forces and conserve a decisive mass for the critical moment. Once this decisive mass has been thrown in, it must be used with the greatest audacity.<br /><br />5. We should establish one battle-order (the arrangement of troops before and during combat) for the whole campaign or the whole war. This order will serve in all cases when there is no time for a special disposition of troops. It should, therefore, be calculated primarily for the defensive. This battle-array will introduce a certain uniformity into the fighting method of the army, which will be useful and advantageous. For it is inevitable that a large part of the lower generals and other officers at the head of small contingents have no special knowledge of tactics and perhaps no outstanding aptitude for the conduct of war.<br />Thus there arises a certain methodism in warfare to take the place of art, wherever the latter is absent. In my opinion this is to the highest degree the case in the French armies.<br /><br />7. The army consists of several such independent corps, which have their own general and staff. They are drawn up in line and behind each other, as described in the general rules for combat. It should be observed at this point that, unless we are very weak in cavalry, we should create a special cavalry reserve, which, of course, is kept in the rear. Its purpose is as follows:<br /><br />(a) To fall upon the enemy when he is retreating from the field of battle and to attack the cavalry which he uses to cover up his retreat. Should we defeat the enemy's cavalry at this moment, great successes are inevitable, unless the enemy's infantry would perform miracles of bravery . Small detachments of cavalry would not accomplish this purpose.<br /><br />(b) To pursue the enemy more rapidly, if he should be retreating unbeaten or if he should continue to retreat the day after a lost battle. Cavalry moves faster than infantry and has a more demoralizing effect on the retreating troops. Next to victory, the act of pursuit is most important in war.<br /><br />(c) To execute a great (strategic) turning move, should we need, because of the detour, a branch of the army which moves more rapidly than the infantry.<br /><br />In order to make this corps more independent, we should attach a considerable mass of horse artillery; for a combination of several types of arms can only give greater strength.<br /><br />8. The battle-order of troops described thus far was intended for combat; it was the formation of troops for battle. The order of march is essentially as follows:<br /><br />(a) Each independent corps (whether brigade or division) has its own advanced- and rear-guard and forms its own column. That, however, does not prevent several corps from marching one behind the other on the same road, and thus, as it were, forming a single column. The corps march according to their position in the general formation of battle. They march beside or behind each other, just as they would stand on the battlefield. In the corps themselves the following order is invariably observed: the light infantry, with the addition of one regiment of cavalry, forming the advanced and rear-guard, then the infantry, the artillery, and last the remaining cavalry. This order stands, whether we are moving against the enemy – in which case it is the natural order – or parallel with him. In the latter case we should assume that those troops which in the battle formation were behind each other should march side by side. But when we have to draw up the troops for battle, there will always be sufficient time to move the cavalry and the second line of infantry either to the right or left.<br /><br />4. Principles For The Use Of Terrain<br /><br />1. The terrain (the ground or country) offers two advantages in warfare. The first is that it presents obstacles to the enemy's approach. These either make his advance impossible at a given point, or force him to march more slowly and to maintain his formation in columns, etc. The second advantage is that obstacles in the terrain enable us to place our troops under cover.<br />Although both advantages are very important, I think the second more important than the first. In any event, it is certain that we profit from it more frequently, since in most cases even the simplest terrain permits us to place ourselves more or less under cover. Formerly only the first of these advantages was known and the second was rarely used. But today the greater mobility of all armies has led us to use the former less frequently, and therefore the latter more frequently. The first of these two advantages is useful for defence alone, the second for both offence and defence.<br /><br />2. The terrain as an obstacle to approach serves chiefly to support our flank, and to strengthen our front.<br /><br />3. To support our flank it must be absolutely impassable, such as a large river, a lake, an impenetrable morass. These obstacles, however, are very rare, and a complete protection of our flank is, therefore, hard to find. It is rarer today than ever before, since we do not stay in one position very long, but move about a great deal. Consequently we need more positions in the theatre of war.<br />An obstacle to approach which is not wholly impassable is really no point d'appui for our flank, but only a reinforcement. In that case troops must be drawn up behind it, and for them in turn it becomes an obstacle to approach.<br />Yet it is always advantageous to secure our flank in this way, for then we shall need fewer troops at this point. But we must beware of two things: first, of relying so completely on this protection that we do not keep a strong reserve in the rear; second, of surrounding ourselves on both flanks with such obstacles, for, since they do not protect us completely, they do not always prevent fighting on our flanks. They are, therefore, highly detrimental to our defence, for they do not permit us to engage easily in active defence on either wing. We shall be reduced to defence under the most disadvantageous conditions, with both flanks thrown back.<br /><br />4. The observations just made furnish new arguments for the formation in depth. The less we can find secure support for our flanks, the more corps we must have in he rear to envelop those troops of the enemy which are surrounding us.<br /><br />5. All kinds of terrain, which cannot be passed by troops marching in line, all villages, all enclosures surrounded by hedges or ditches, marshy meadows, finally all mountains which are crossed only with difficulty, constitute obstacles of this kind. We can pass them, but only slowly and with effort. They increase, therefore, the power of resistance of troops drawn up behind them. Forests are to be included only if they are thickly wooded and marshy. An ordinary timber-forest can be assed as easily as a plain. But we must not overlook the fact that a forest may hide the enemy. If we conceal ourselves in it, this disadvantage affects both sides. But t is very dangerous, and thus a grave mistake, to leave forests on our front or flank unoccupied, unless the forest can be traversed only by a few paths. Barricades built as obstacles are of little help, since they can easily be removed.<br /><br />6. From all this it follows that we should use such obstacles on one flank to put up a relatively strong resistance with few troops, while executing our planned ffensive on the other flank. It is very advantageous to combine the use of entrenchments with such natural obstacles, because then, if the enemy should pass the obstacle, the fire from these entrenchments will protect our weak troops against too great superiority and sudden rout.<br /><br />7. When we are defending ourselves, any obstacle on our front is of great value. Mountains are occupied only for this reason. For an elevated position seldom has any important influence, often none at all, on the effectiveness of arms. But if we stand on a height, the enemy, in order to approach us, must climb laboriously. He will advance but slowly, become separated, and arrive with his forces exhausted.<br />Given equal bravery and strength, these advantages may be decisive. On no account should we overlook the moral effect of a rapid, running assault. It hardens the advancing soldier against danger, while the stationary soldier loses his presence of mind. It is, therefore, always very advantageous to put our first line of infantry and artillery upon a mountain.<br />Often the grade of the mountain is so steep, or its slope so undulating and uneven, that it cannot be effectively swept by gunfire. In that case we should not place our first line, but at the most only our sharp-shooters, at the edge of the mountain. Our full line we should place in such a way that the enemy is subject to its most effective fire the moment he reaches the top and reassembles his forces.<br />All other obstacles to approach, such as small rivers, brooks, ravines, etc., serve to break the enemy's front. He will have to re-form his lines after passing them and thus will be delayed. These obstacles must, therefore, be placed under our most effective fire, which is grape-shot (400 to 600 paces), if we have a great deal of artillery or musket-shot (150 to 200 paces), if we have little artillery at this point.<br /><br />8. It is, therefore, a basic law to place all obstacles to approach, which are to strengthen our front, under our most effective fire. But it is important to notice that we must never completely limit our resistance to this fire but must hold ready for a bayonet-charge an important part of our troops (1/3 to 1/2) organized into columns.<br />Should we be very weak, therefore, we must place only our firing line, composed of riflemen and artillery, close enough to keep the obstacle under fire. The rest of our troops, organized into columns, we should keep 600 to 800 paces back, if possible under cover.<br /><br />9. Another method of using these obstacles to protect our front is to leave them a short distance ahead. They are thus within the effective range of our cannon (1000 to 2000 paces) and we can attack the enemy's columns from all sides, as they emerge. <br /><br />10. Thus far we have considered the obstacles of the ground and country primarily as connected lines related to extended positions. It is still necessary to say something about isolated points.<br /><br />On the whole we can defend single, isolated points only by entrenchments or strong obstacles of terrain. We shall not discuss the first here. The only obstacles of terrain which can be held by themselves are:<br /><br />(a) Isolated, steep heights.<br /><br />Here entrenchments are likewise indispensable; for the enemy can always move against the defender with a more or less extended front. And the latter will always end up by being taken from the rear, since one is rarely strong enough to make front towards all sides.<br /><br />(b) Defiles. By this term we mean any narrow path, through which the enemy can advance only against one point. Bridges, dams, and steep ravines belong here.<br /><br />We should observe that these obstacles fall into two categories: either the aggressor can in no way avoid them, as for example bridges across large rivers, in which case the defender can boldly draw up his whole force so as to fire upon the point of crossing as effectively as possible. Or we are not absolutely sure that the enemy cannot turn the obstacle, as with bridges across small streams and most mountain defiles. In that case it is necessary to reserve a considerable part of our troops 1/3 to 1/2 for an attack in close order.<br /><br />(c) Localities, villages, small towns, etc. With very brave troops, who fight enthusiastically, houses offer a unique defence for few against many. But, if we are not sure of the individual soldier, it is preferable to occupy the houses, gardens, etc., only with sharp-shooters and the entrances to the village with cannons. The greater part of our troops (1/2 to 3/4) we should keep in close columns and hidden in the locality or behind it, so as to fall upon the enemy while he is invading.<br /><br />11. These isolated posts serve in large operations partly as outposts, in which case they serve not as absolute defence but only as a delay to the enemy, and partly to hold points which are important for the combinations we have planned for our army. Also it is often necessary to hold on to a remote point in order to gain time for the development of active measures of defence which we may have planned. But, if a point is remote, it is ipso facto isolated.<br /><br />12. Two more observations about isolated obstacles are necessary. The first is that we must keep troops ready behind them to receive detachments that have been thrown back. The second is that whoever includes such isolated obstacles in his defensive combinations should never count on them too much, no matter how strong the obstacle may be. On the other hand, the military leader to whom the defence of the obstacle has been entrusted must always try to hold out, even under the most adverse circumstances. For this there is needed a spirit of determination and self-sacrifice, which finds its source only in ambition and enthusiasm. We must, therefore, choose men for this mission who are not lacking in these noble qualities.<br /><br />13. Using terrain to cover the disposition and advance of troops needs no detailed exposition. We should not occupy the crest of the mountain which we intend to defend (as has been done so frequently in the past) but draw up behind it. We should not take our position in front of a forest, but inside or behind it; the latter only if we are able to survey the forest or thicket. We should keep our troops in columns, so as to find cover more easily. We must make use of villages, small thickets, and rolling terrain to hide our troops. For our advance we should choose the most intersected country, etc.<br />In cultivated country, which can be reconnoitered so easily, there is almost no region that can not hide a large part of the defender's troops if they have made clever use of obstacles. To cover the aggressor's advance is more difficult, since he must follow the roads.<br />It goes without saying that in using the terrain to hide our troops, we must never lose sight of the goal and combinations we have set for ourselves. Above all things we should not break up our battle order completely, even though we may deviate slightly from it.<br /><br />14. If we recapitulate what has been said about terrain, the following appears most important for the defender, i.e., for the choice of positions:<br /><br />(a) Support of one or both flanks.<br /><br />(b) Open view on front and flanks.<br /><br />(c) Obstacles to approach on the front.<br /><br />(d) Masked disposition of troops. And finally<br /><br />(e) Intersected country in the rear, to render pursuit more difficult in case of defeat. But no defiles too near, since they cause delay and confusion.<br /><br />15. It would be pedantic to believe that all these advantages could be found in any position we may take up during a war. Not all positions are of equal importance: the most important are those in which we most likely may be attacked. It is here that we should try to have all these advantages, while in others we only need part.<br /><br />16. The two main points which the aggressor should consider in regard to the choice of terrain are not to select too difficult a terrain for the attack, but on the other hand to advance, if possible, through a terrain in which the enemy can least survey our force.<br /><br />17. I close these observations with a principle which is of highest significance, and which must be considered the keystone of the whole defensive theory:<br /><br />NEVER TO DEPEND COMPLETELY ON THE STRENGTH OF THE TERRAIN AND CONSEQUENTLY NEVER TO BE ENTICED INTO PASSIVE<br /><br />DEFENCE BY A STRONG TERRAIN.<br /><br />For if the terrain is really so strong that the aggressor cannot possibly expel us, he will turn it, which is always possible, and thus render the strongest terrain useless. We shall be forced into battle under very different circumstances, and in a completely different terrain, and we might as well not have included the first terrain in our plans. But if the terrain is not so strong, and if an attack within its confines is still possible, its advantages can never make up for the disadvantages of passive defence.<br /><br />All obstacles are useful, therefore, only for partial defence, in order that we may put up a relatively strong resistance with few troops and gain time for the offensive, through which we try to win a real victory elsewhere."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-35515289207550815982009-09-26T20:31:00.000-07:002009-09-26T20:46:43.765-07:00Blog directionOne of the frustrations I have is the "exploitation" of historical battles within scenario books. Someone may be making a pretty penny. I am, on the other hand, not really looking for wargaming to make me my "dime". I have another job with which to do that. <br />As a result, I think I will look to start making historical scenarios exist for free. I will try to accumulate the raw information and make other information known that will make these scenarios accurate. Then hopefully the information I provide can be used to allow the gamer apply it to his particular system. I really enjoy the "game creation" part of wargaming, much more then say the painting part. To this end, I think I will try to set up linked blogsites. Each of these sites will be dedicated to each battle. I will still try to use this as the master coordination site. This may take alot time, but I will get there."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-33141421688110311942009-09-24T19:00:00.000-07:002009-10-05T05:09:57.289-07:00The dilemmaIoannis Mavromichalis has made me aware that he is available to paint some figures for me. I have now a bit of an internal struggle to address. I am prejudiced to believe that no one with the name starting with "Ioa..." can paint!<br /><br />No really! I am a bit worried his work will be just that 10% better/different than the bulk of what I currently have. I would direct you to his Calpe Saxons at http://www.sdean-forum.co.uk/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=19770&highlight=calpe , which are just cut from a different cloth from half my army. So the dilemma is...do you have some figs, specifically in my case the Legere battalions just be painted "that darn good", or do you respectfully decline stating....something stupid....I don't know....but I can mutter something, and preserve the integrity of your Grade A-, Grade A armies.<br /><br />I just worry the style would be <em>that much</em> different. I just can't make a quick decision on that one."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-23347059237381536422009-09-21T20:13:00.000-07:002009-09-28T19:24:28.517-07:00New game- I try to keep it interesting for everyone.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3-JwN-dsKyPDXpsu8OLgXT97yOag2_ebsesCtqBN6FzYwkfz_GxzOz2p5r2BK5kiJI8JFiCN9ka19gB7Blw8md4sbkxbxtsbqWOpBV95kRvlexqIAXJPsqnNG7VzAjPFBos1GPFFrw/s1600-h/chas.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 260px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3-JwN-dsKyPDXpsu8OLgXT97yOag2_ebsesCtqBN6FzYwkfz_GxzOz2p5r2BK5kiJI8JFiCN9ka19gB7Blw8md4sbkxbxtsbqWOpBV95kRvlexqIAXJPsqnNG7VzAjPFBos1GPFFrw/s320/chas.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386709587753594690" /></a><br />I am looking to host a game October 3rd. Most people will be comfortable playing General de Brigade, so we will probably go with those rules.<br /><br />I am hopefully going to convince 6+ people to play. With that in mind, I am considering a side battle to see if one commander can hold up the enemy flanking maneuver. This will give some importance to that side piece that may not otherwise be there.<br /><br />Let me explain. I will set up two game tables, one 6 by 12, the other 6 by 8.<br />The main 12 by 6 table will be set up so that the fighting will be geared toward the center of the table. I will then have roads that exit off the short edges off each side. The attacker will get a chance to pick a side in which the flanking attack attempts to enter, the defender will state how he defends "his flanks". These flanking elements for both sides will then be set aside, taken out of the order of battle per se. <br />The defender will set up his troops with blinds. The attacker will then set up some of his command near his side. The defending commands will then be taken to the second board, as well the attackers flanking column.<br /><br />So using a second 6 by 8 board, the attackers "flanking column" of troops will try to exist the board at the middle, and have the defender/enemy race them (or not)to that point, engage them and try to keep the reinforcements from joining the main battle. These troops will have their own commanders separate from the main battle. This will be a curve ball we have not played before, and give all involved a bit of a headache, as they try to decipher what is going on.<br /><br />I suspect the key to a good scenario is to make the main boards flanks vulnerable to attack. I believe I will have to make the French the attackers, and have the enemy (probably the Russians) defenses set up within 6 inches (or a foot?) of the middle of the board. This will make them vulnerable to arrival by a flanking element. <br /><br />Now if I can just get enough people to show up! I will look to give a battle report and pictures of the game if my camera is up to it."Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-24501595958008420422009-09-19T19:58:00.000-07:002009-09-19T20:01:18.831-07:00Help for the uneducatedI am looking for help making a more polished map of the Teugn-Hausen area. My map created on paint is posted below. I have tried Battle Chronicler, but don't seem to have a mastery. The yellow grid is for 4 by 6 tables. I wish to put forth a more professional version as soon as I can. All help is appreciated"Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1931601824805525592.post-68588742679342460262009-09-19T19:54:00.000-07:002009-09-19T19:58:01.548-07:00My Big Game for Hausen<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxqrpsR2EiCV_uhdYeALqmwasPCzWb5MCZGYGBzOe_ZZ94QrjWj_6iEyhgDeiW1Y1KhXBJzL9uX_mPEtERDJ9loajpX4X8DS2WFl9E1MjAsMOZIk6PEB7QIPsRdCfOMjAVRMdkdGYmTQ/s1600-h/Hausen+map.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 191px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxqrpsR2EiCV_uhdYeALqmwasPCzWb5MCZGYGBzOe_ZZ94QrjWj_6iEyhgDeiW1Y1KhXBJzL9uX_mPEtERDJ9loajpX4X8DS2WFl9E1MjAsMOZIk6PEB7QIPsRdCfOMjAVRMdkdGYmTQ/s320/Hausen+map.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383378050998054178" /></a>"Shaman" Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13798130081645092725noreply@blogger.com0