Hello, Fieldmarshal. I am very glad that you are willing to join us in this fight to liberate Europe from it's oppressors. We, however, as the commanders of the American First Platoon, were to use them in the imminent attack on the Russian 33rd Platoon to flank the main enemy force separating the 9nth and Berlin. Both forces will be crucial in the battle for your capital city, and we hope you can understand the lack of aid available for your forces until we are able to regroup with our forces in Europe and silence the Japanese forces in the Pacific theater of war. We hope to accomplish the second goal before the end of May.
Godspeed.
~Franklin Delano Roosevelt.
I hope that this is how we are supposed to post in the beginning, though I can change it to how it is needed if not so. This looks like it will be at least an interesting experience, so here it goes.
Well, communications can go however you like. And, just a tip, when talking grand strategy, platoon isn't really a good idea. Just for your benefit, since a platoon is about 32 guys. I think you mean Army. Here [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_organization#Hierarchy_of_modern_armies] is a list of military unit sizes. For most of your work, you would use between Army and Division, but in battle, you could use most other units practically.
Also, you reminded me, so thank you. The atomic bombs will be dropped as they were in real life: On August 6 and 9.
Anyway, in general, you can just use the posts normally, without using a spoiler box, but spoilers are good to specify who you are speaking to.
Oh, and in an attempt to be helpful, I think your plan is, and I might be wrong, because Icarion came up with this, to cut between the Prague and Berlin masses and strike at Berlin from the south, attacking the Soviet 8th Guards Army and 1st Guards Tank Army. I don't know, he is the mind behind that move.
Ideally, this was how it was supposed to happen, but if you want to use your 9th army to flank the main Soviet battle line, go right ahead. My thinking was that we could take Berlin and then your 9th could sweep in behind the enemy, a classic Hammer and Anvil move. While the 9th was doing that I'd take my units and push East, meeting up with the Poles and digging in along the Vistula River, in preparation for the Soviet counter attack.
Consider the 8th fighter group yours until Berlin is taken. Remember, they're ours, so they know English, not German. As for the bombardments, we shall handle that when the time comes. bombarding them too early will alloy their forces in Berlin time to prepare, something that we shall not allow. However, we have the 2nd and 16th Operations units ready for launch at our command. Our strikes are to hit the 69th, 3rd, 47th, 1st, and 61st armies, with the interceptors going along to help defend the B-52s.
A pleasure working with you all again. I daresay we have quite the goliath to fell and I couldn't ask for a more talented cotery of lads consipre with. That out of the way ...
Southern Berlin is gaurded by the Soviet's 8th Gaurd and 1st Gaurds tank, which I don't have to explain to you chaps is quite a formidable foe, being the elite soviet armies. This is mind I'm hesitant to send the Wehrmacht in alone. Manstein, your soldiers are highly trained and disciplined but woefully under-equipped to fight The Soviet's best one on one. Surpise will only get us so far with veteran soldiers. Furthermore, if Berlin were to be captured in it's current state, even with the assistance of the American 1st which the yanks seem loathe to give, the Soviet's 2nd Guard Tank and 3rd and 5th Shock are sitting on the Cities Northern and Eastern flank. We couldn't hold Berlin very long even if we tried to dig in and, if we followed Manstein's plan of the American 1st going west to engage the Soviet 47th, 3rd and 69th and the Wehrmacht forces heading east to fortify along the Vistula with Polish assistance, its easy to imagine the Soviet's sending thier 3rd and 5th Shock to intercept Manstein and their 2nd Gaurd Tank to harrass Roosevelt.
If our first move of the war is going to be the capture of Berlin, it'd best be with overwhelming numbers and plenty of distraction. I propose that The British 2nd move to take the Soviet 70th and position itself between the Soviet 49th and 65th. Simultaneously the Polish landing in the Gulf of Gdansk will take the Russian 19th by suprise. This placement gives us two armies in position to assail the North flank of Berlin as well as surrounds the Soviet 65th and 25th (between myself and the Poles) and the Soviet 49th and 61st (between myself and the American 9th).
The American 7th ought to move to replace the American 3rd, the 3rd ought to join the American 1st. With the American 3rd and 1st and the Wehrmacht in one place we can make a push either into southern Berlin supported by The Britsh Second and the Poles, or move to decimate the sorrounded Soviet western front. I prefer the capture of Berlin personally, if we take capture Berlin solidly the western front will start crumbling anyway.
Thats my proposition for the north. Of course I would also volunteer my RAF boys to bomb the Russian 19th, making the polish landing a little easier, and the armies surrounding Berlin for obvious reasons.
I'm not sure a methodic bombing of airbases is the best idea however. My understanding of it may be sloppy, and correct me if it is, but you are suggesting we essentially destroy airbases in eastern Europe so as to prevent Soviet planes from landing and being used against us, right? If thats the case the one thing I'd say is that it also prevents us landing RAF lads to use against them, once we start pushing the Red Menace back. The air being one of the few fields where we can evenly challenge Stalin I'm hesitant to do away with airforce bases at this early stage of the war.
As for the Austrian/Czechoslovakian front, we should begin applying pressure to Austria, just to make sure that the armies in Czechoslovakia don't start getting orders to go north. The longer they stay where they are, the better for us. With that in mind it seems to me the French 1st and the American 5th should skirt the mountains and get a little closer to the Austrian border. The French 1st probably near Munchen and the Yank 5th near the British 8th.
As for the Canadian 1st and the American 15th, they should immediately join ranks. I don't know how we let them get that far behind! The 15th would probably do well in the south near Munchen and the Canadian first would be best in the north.
There my proposals for the war effort. Like all things they are subject to the improvements of clever men. What do you chaps make of it?
Well put, General. It seems your plan calls for the abandonment of the "Carapathian Line", no? This is, in fact, probably a wise move, because it would be hard to cover the entirety of Eastern Europe in a few days. And you also make good points regarding the airfields. A point I, having no air force to speak of, overlooked. Your plan is sound and probably more likely to work. Your proposed merging and movement of the armies is well thought out and will help the plan succeed in its opening phases. I wholeheartedly support the capturing of Berlin, as it will give the soldiers of the Wermacht a huge boost of morale. Once we get inside the city of Berlin, where the Russian armour has no power, my Wermacht will slaughter those Russian swine However, I must know Poland's opinion on capturing Warsaw, and how much of their homeland they desire to gain in these first few hours. I feel like that will dictate our entire strategy. Also, do we still want to fortify the Vistula river? It would cut off Soviet reinforcements, but as you said, might expose us to Soviet fire. Remember, if we are to beat the Kommunistischen Bedrohung we must cut off her supply lines at every oppurtunity. And thank you to President Roosevelt for the lending of air support.
~Generalfieldmarshall Erich von Manstien
Just for clarifications sake, are we calling the mountainous region through Austria and northern Italy the Carpathian Line? In that case, I figure let the Soviets try to scale the mountains if thats their pleasure. It'll be slow, our planes can bomb them while they're doing it and since it'll be mostly infantry coming through if we leave a couple tanks gaurding key locations we can wipe up the Soviets who get through.
If the Carpathian Line is somewhere else ... Well ...
Anyway, you should definitely fortify the Vistula river. Without supplies the Soviet West Front isn't gonna last, starving them is a far more cost effective strategy than overcoming their full strength.
First I would like to apologize for the odd state of my previous message and lack of communication since. I would also like to state that the rumors of my death are untrue and the individual responsible for all such issues has been dealt with.
Now, on to business. First I would like to register my support for General Sir Bernard Montgomery's analysis of the north-western situation. Upon landing my forces and destroying the Soviet 19th army I will split my forces. I will remain near the landing zone along with the Polish I Corps to potentially attack the Soviet 28th or Berlin as well as hold the bay. I will send the Polish II Corps down the Vistula River under the command of General Wladyslaw Anders to seize as many supplies and strategic points as possible while the element of surprise holds. I do not intend to have them go as far as Warsaw as I don't believe they will be a match for the guard unit in the area alone.
Bringing up Generalfieldmarshall Manstien's concern, I assure that my countrymen are people of fortitude and they understand that destruction of the enemy is the first step before we can reclaim our motherland in full.
As for the generous offer of aid from the British RAF, I believe that such resources would be better used in softening the expected counterattack from Berlin. However, as our attack will be from the sea it is in navel power that our true advantage will lay. I understand that forces are stretched thin, but whatever warships or carriers could be afforded by any nation would be appreciated and make for a considerably easier time as well as offer some protection from enemy response.
For your consideration,
Wladyslaw Sikorski, Prime Minister of the Polish Government in Exile, General Inspector of the Armed Forces
In the western front at that time the Polish national forces commanded by General Wladyslaw Sikorski were comprised of around 230,000 men by most accounts. They were mostly divided as follows:
Polish I Corps
> Polish 1st Armoured Division
> Polish 1st Independent Parachute Brigade
Polish II Corps
> Polish 3rd Carpathian Rifle Division
> Polish 5th Kresowa Infantry Division
> Polish 2nd Armoured Brigade
Though the units were listed as corps, divisions, and so on they were almost all operating well outside common manpower definitions as, for example, the two corps each had slightly over 100,000 soldiers in each. Though this list lacks most of the minor segmentation as well as many independent units these were the most important segments of the Polish Army at that time.
A pleasure working with you all again. I daresay we have quite the goliath to fell and I couldn't ask for a more talented cotery of lads consipre with. That out of the way ...
Southern Berlin is gaurded by the Soviet's 8th Gaurd and 1st Gaurds tank, which I don't have to explain to you chaps is quite a formidable foe, being the elite soviet armies. This is mind I'm hesitant to send the Wehrmacht in alone. Manstein, your soldiers are highly trained and disciplined but woefully under-equipped to fight The Soviet's best one on one. Surpise will only get us so far with veteran soldiers. Furthermore, if Berlin were to be captured in it's current state, even with the assistance of the American 1st which the yanks seem loathe to give, the Soviet's 2nd Guard Tank and 3rd and 5th Shock are sitting on the Cities Northern and Eastern flank. We couldn't hold Berlin very long even if we tried to dig in and, if we followed Manstein's plan of the American 1st going west to engage the Soviet 47th, 3rd and 69th and the Wehrmacht forces heading east to fortify along the Vistula with Polish assistance, its easy to imagine the Soviet's sending thier 3rd and 5th Shock to intercept Manstein and their 2nd Gaurd Tank to harrass Roosevelt.
If our first move of the war is going to be the capture of Berlin, it'd best be with overwhelming numbers and plenty of distraction. I propose that The British 2nd move to take the Soviet 70th and position itself between the Soviet 49th and 65th. Simultaneously the Polish landing in the Gulf of Gdansk will take the Russian 19th by suprise. This placement gives us two armies in position to assail the North flank of Berlin as well as surrounds the Soviet 65th and 25th (between myself and the Poles) and the Soviet 49th and 61st (between myself and the American 9th).
The American 7th ought to move to replace the American 3rd, the 3rd ought to join the American 1st. With the American 3rd and 1st and the Wehrmacht in one place we can make a push either into southern Berlin supported by The Britsh Second and the Poles, or move to decimate the sorrounded Soviet western front. I prefer the capture of Berlin personally, if we take capture Berlin solidly the western front will start crumbling anyway.
Thats my proposition for the north. Of course I would also volunteer my RAF boys to bomb the Russian 19th, making the polish landing a little easier, and the armies surrounding Berlin for obvious reasons.
I'm not sure a methodic bombing of airbases is the best idea however. My understanding of it may be sloppy, and correct me if it is, but you are suggesting we essentially destroy airbases in eastern Europe so as to prevent Soviet planes from landing and being used against us, right? If thats the case the one thing I'd say is that it also prevents us landing RAF lads to use against them, once we start pushing the Red Menace back. The air being one of the few fields where we can evenly challenge Stalin I'm hesitant to do away with airforce bases at this early stage of the war.
As for the Austrian/Czechoslovakian front, we should begin applying pressure to Austria, just to make sure that the armies in Czechoslovakia don't start getting orders to go north. The longer they stay where they are, the better for us. With that in mind it seems to me the French 1st and the American 5th should skirt the mountains and get a little closer to the Austrian border. The French 1st probably near Munchen and the Yank 5th near the British 8th.
As for the Canadian 1st and the American 15th, they should immediately join ranks. I don't know how we let them get that far behind! The 15th would probably do well in the south near Munchen and the Canadian first would be best in the north.
There my proposals for the war effort. Like all things they are subject to the improvements of clever men. What do you chaps make of it?
I... I don't know what to say. First of all, I liked the touch of British colloquialisms, but my real awe is at the in depth planning. Seriously, on the Escapist, someone that says they're good at logistics for something like this probably means that they are mediocre by the standards of most who would consider themselves hard-ish core military historians (I would for my age). This absolutely blows me away, and to be honest, I haven't clue what I'm going to do to efficiently crush this attack. I am, if I may say so myself, the biggest military history/science nerd in my school, hell, the biggest 16-year old military history/science nerd I can think of, and I honestly feel threatened by this. You, sir, have succeeded in spawning an inferiority complex in me. (All in good humor, of course.)
Fishtie said:
Dear Commanders,
First I would like to apologize for the odd state of my previous message and lack of communication since. I would also like to state that the rumors of my death are untrue and the individual responsible for all such issues has been dealt with.
Now, on to business. First I would like to register my support for General Sir Bernard Montgomery's analysis of the north-western situation. Upon landing my forces and destroying the Soviet 19th army I will split my forces. I will remain near the landing zone along with the Polish I Corps to potentially attack the Soviet 28th or Berlin as well as hold the bay. I will send the Polish II Corps down the Vistula River under the command of General Wladyslaw Anders to seize as many supplies and strategic points as possible while the element of surprise holds. I do not intend to have them go as far as Warsaw as I don't believe they will be a match for the guard unit in the area alone.
Bringing up Generalfieldmarshall Manstien's concern, I assure that my countrymen are people of fortitude and they understand that destruction of the enemy is the first step before we can reclaim our motherland in full.
As for the generous offer of aid from the British RAF, I believe that such resources would be better used in softening the expected counterattack from Berlin. However, as our attack will be from the sea it is in navel power that our true advantage will lay. I understand that forces are stretched thin, but whatever warships or carriers could be afforded by any nation would be appreciated and make for a considerably easier time as well as offer some protection from enemy response.
For your consideration,
Wladyslaw Sikorski, Prime Minister of the Polish Government in Exile, General Inspector of the Armed Forces
In the western front at that time the Polish national forces commanded by General Wladyslaw Sikorski were comprised of around 230,000 men by most accounts. They were mostly divided as follows:
Polish I Corps
> Polish 1st Armoured Division
> Polish 1st Independent Parachute Brigade
Polish II Corps
> Polish 3rd Carpathian Rifle Division
> Polish 5th Kresowa Infantry Division
> Polish 2nd Armoured Brigade
Though the units were listed as corps, divisions, and so on they were almost all operating well outside common manpower definitions as, for example, the two corps each had slightly over 100,000 soldiers in each. Though this list lacks most of the minor segmentation as well as many independent units these were the most important segments of the Polish Army at that time.
Since you use airborne troops, I should inform you that such troops would have a certain kind of tank, though only a few since they are airborne and they are only a brigade, even though you said it would be larger than the usual brigade. Anyway, the armor used by your 1st Independent Parachute Brigade would be the M-22 Locust [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M22_Locust] airborne light tank. I am not sure whether or not you really would use it, since you say parachute brigade, not just airborne, and the Locust would have been glider-borne. Anyway, if it is applicable, use it.
ThreeWords said:
Noooooo- I mean, could I have Australia? I'll need a briefing on what I have at my command...
Alright. Australia is yours. I will post your information soon. I will PM you once I have the info up, and, unless you'd like me to go back over the list of equipment and whatnot used by your men in your own spoiler box, just refer to the writeup I gave for the British faction, which can be found on the duplicate of the factions section on my OP. I can, however, remember right off the top of my head that the men you control would be in the Pacific Theater, because those in Europe would be serving in the British Armies under Monty. Those formations would be the Australian 1st and 2nd Armies, both of which are part of American General Douglas MacArthur's Southwest Pacific Command Area, attacking Japan from the south. They will be given to you, though. You also control some RAF forces in the Pacific. I'll give specifics later.
As a note to all of you, I must say I am overwhelmingly impressed. You all seem to be much more capable RPers for this topic than I expected, and I hope that doesn't come across as a negative in any way. I'm very happy at how this has turned out so far and I'm very excited to see where it will go.
Well, I see we have a strategist with us. I believe you will be useful in the coming months. Your plan is quite brilliant, but I feel we need a way to stop the Russian armies from retreating. This, I believe, can be accomplished by combining the 3rd army and the 1st army, both under the command of the magnification general George S. Patton, and flanking the Russian forces, waiting for them to flee, or to launch an attack from behind the Russians during battles. If they do retreat, then the Russians will be broken, and will be easy for the men of the 1st, as well as any air support we can forward them, whereas, if they stay, we can attack them from behind and destroy them easily.
~Harry S. Truman
P.S: Patton has challenged you to a race to Berlin. Please, decline, you don't want to know how much beer the last person who challenged him to a race had to buy.
Well, I see we have a strategist with us. I believe you will be useful in the coming months. Your plan is quite brilliant, but I feel we need a way to stop the Russian armies from retreating. This, I believe, can be accomplished by combining the 3rd army and the 1st army, both under the command of the magnification general George S. Patton, and flanking the Russian forces, waiting for them to flee, or to launch an attack from behind the Russians during battles. If they do retreat, then the Russians will be broken, and will be easy for the men of the 1st, as well as any air support we can forward them, whereas, if they stay, we can attack them from behind and destroy them easily.
~Harry S. Truman
P.S: Patton has challenged you to a race to Berlin. Please, decline, you don't want to know how much beer the last person who challenged him to a race had to buy.
Generals,
I will be brief, the war looms. As I have it we will merge the American 1st and 3rd, push towards Berlin with those Troops along with my Wermacht. We will take Berlin and my Wermacht will continue west and help the Poles fortify the Vistula. The Polish 1st corps will assist in the seige of Berlin, and the 2nd corps will push west up to the River. The Brits and Canadians will take out the Soviet forces to the North of Berlin, while the American 9th will launch a diversonary attack on the main Soviet line. Once Berlin has been seized the American forces will sweep back down on the main Soviet line, crushing them against the American 9th. While the Battle for Berlin rages, all forces not involved will put pressure on all Southern Soviet forces to prevent them from moving north. I am correct in my understanding of the Plan, nein?And in Response to General Montgomery, the Carapathian line was to be the mountains and all territory on a rough north-south axis with them, the aim of which would be to completely cut off all Soviet movements, not just in the north but in all of Europe. Needless to say, it will be near impossible to achieve the southern end of this line, so that part of the plan has been abandoned. And sheise, mein Freund you are quite the militarty genious.
OOC:Yeah Rex, your understanding of logistics is mind blowing. As prehaps the most "war strategy" minded of my class (I'm 15 btw. I have read many books on famous battles and tactics involved. So I would say I'm fairly good at this, particularly picking out defensive positions) I can say that you should probably apply for a command position in the military. That's how good you are. I bet you'd make general
First I would like to apologize for the odd state of my previous message and lack of communication since. I would also like to state that the rumors of my death are untrue and the individual responsible for all such issues has been dealt with.
Now, on to business. First I would like to register my support for General Sir Bernard Montgomery's analysis of the north-western situation. Upon landing my forces and destroying the Soviet 19th army I will split my forces. I will remain near the landing zone along with the Polish I Corps to potentially attack the Soviet 28th or Berlin as well as hold the bay. I will send the Polish II Corps down the Vistula River under the command of General Wladyslaw Anders to seize as many supplies and strategic points as possible while the element of surprise holds. I do not intend to have them go as far as Warsaw as I don't believe they will be a match for the guard unit in the area alone.
Bringing up Generalfieldmarshall Manstien's concern, I assure that my countrymen are people of fortitude and they understand that destruction of the enemy is the first step before we can reclaim our motherland in full.
As for the generous offer of aid from the British RAF, I believe that such resources would be better used in softening the expected counterattack from Berlin. However, as our attack will be from the sea it is in navel power that our true advantage will lay. I understand that forces are stretched thin, but whatever warships or carriers could be afforded by any nation would be appreciated and make for a considerably easier time as well as offer some protection from enemy response.
For your consideration,
Wladyslaw Sikorski, Prime Minister of the Polish Government in Exile, General Inspector of the Armed Forces
In the western front at that time the Polish national forces commanded by General Wladyslaw Sikorski were comprised of around 230,000 men by most accounts. They were mostly divided as follows:
Polish I Corps
> Polish 1st Armoured Division
> Polish 1st Independent Parachute Brigade
Polish II Corps
> Polish 3rd Carpathian Rifle Division
> Polish 5th Kresowa Infantry Division
> Polish 2nd Armoured Brigade
Though the units were listed as corps, divisions, and so on they were almost all operating well outside common manpower definitions as, for example, the two corps each had slightly over 100,000 soldiers in each. Though this list lacks most of the minor segmentation as well as many independent units these were the most important segments of the Polish Army at that time.
Since you use airborne troops, I should inform you that such troops would have a certain kind of tank, though only a few since they are airborne and they are only a brigade, even though you said it would be larger than the usual brigade. Anyway, the armor used by your 1st Independent Parachute Brigade would be the M-22 Locust [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M22_Locust] airborne light tank. I am not sure whether or not you really would use it, since you say parachute brigade, not just airborne, and the Locust would have been glider-borne. Anyway, if it is applicable, use it.
Well the unit lists come right off of Wiki and are probably hardly conclusive. The major concept I was trying to get across is: My forces are slit into 2 major operating units of roughly equal strength. This is just the framing device and historical information I decided to use rather then 'another letter to the generals'.
Incidentally: Glider tank=awesome. Impractical, but awesome.
Good day fellows. With war briming I'm sure we'll all appreciate a healthy dose of brevity.
In response to Right Honorable Wladyslaw Sikorski, if you feel you can make the landing without our RAF lads we're certainly not going to foist them on you. The chaps will be just as happy harassing Continental Soviets as Costal Soviets. As for ships, this being a rather important landing and one of the few we're likely to make in the early segment of our campaign, I raised the issue with Churchill and he has agreed you should be lent your pick of Her Royal Majesty's vessels (provided they are currently docked above the Mediterranean and east of the Atlantic of course. The only vessels that would reach you in a timely manner). We have a fine selection of carriers and war ships, I hope you'll find them to your liking.
To Prestigious General Manstein, that is both accurate and infinitely more concise. My men are at the ready and awaiting the go. On a more personal note, I'm ashamed to admit my German is far weaker than I would like, but I am versed enough to know when a compliment is thrown my way. Unfortunately the closest, geographically, I could respond in kind you may be unenthusiastic to here. Merci mon ami. A travailez avec vous, c'est une plaisir.
Adressing Daring President Truman, it will indeed be vital to come behind the Soviet's western wall. As for who you choose to head the American 1st and 3rd armies, its hardly my business. General George Patton was a very capable tactician in my experiences with the man. I'm sure he'll do a smashing job.
On the subject of races, I'm afraid the stakes are merely too high. I'm frankly shocked Patton would suggest such frivilous behavior in the opening stages of what will undoubtedly be the most severe war of our generation. Its nothing less than the western world at stake. No, I'm afraid I've matured since our romp to Palermo. And you may tell General Patton as much.
Well, I believe we are prepared to make our first incision into the Soviet bear! Pip pip gentlemen, and may God be with us.
Really George? Berlin? So short sighted. Now, a heroic march into Warsaw, thats a different beast all together. Shattering Soviet lines ... liberating the Poles ... history making stuff there. Sounds like my kind of field.
So, what are we betting this time? Alcohol or something more interesting? Oh, by the way, I told Truman I was categorically refusing your challenge of a race, so don't be surprised when he tells you so. Of course we're still on though; the way I see it this will be the signature race! You got me one on Palermo and I got you one on-Well, I maintain we would have weathered through Rommel with or without your unique blend of Yankee brashess but we've had this argument.
Anyway, Warsaw. And don't tell Daddy this time.
-Monty
OOC: Well shucks, I feel all complimented. Its good to know I'm doing something right, and even better to hear that people who've studied and obviously know what they're doing think I'm doing something right. Scholarly feedback is really the best you can get and one I've never really gotten before on this subject. I'm really glad I joined this thread.
Good day fellows. With war briming I'm sure we'll all appreciate a healthy dose of brevity.
In response to Right Honorable Wladyslaw Sikorski, if you feel you can make the landing without our RAF lads we're certainly not going to foist them on you. The chaps will be just as happy harassing Continental Soviets as Costal Soviets. As for ships, this being a rather important landing and one of the few we're likely to make in the early segment of our campaign, I raised the issue with Churchill and he has agreed you should be lent your pick of Her Royal Majesty's vessels (provided they are currently docked above the Mediterranean and east of the Atlantic of course. The only vessels that would reach you in a timely manner). We have a fine selection of carriers and war ships, I hope you'll find them to your liking.
To Prestigious General Manstein, that is both accurate and infinitely more concise. My men are at the ready and awaiting the go. On a more personal note, I'm ashamed to admit my German is far weaker than I would like, but I am versed enough to know when a compliment is thrown my way. Unfortunately the closest, geographically, I could respond in kind you may be unenthusiastic to here. Merci mon ami. A travailez avec vous, c'est une plaisir.
Adressing Daring President Truman, it will indeed be vital to come behind the Soviet's western wall. As for who you choose to head the American 1st and 3rd armies, its hardly my business. General George Patton was a very capable tactician in my experiences with the man. I'm sure he'll do a smashing job.
On the subject of races, I'm afraid the stakes are merely too high. I'm frankly shocked Patton would suggest such frivilous behavior in the opening stages of what will undoubtedly be the most severe war of our generation. Its nothing less than the western world at stake. No, I'm afraid I've matured since our romp to Palermo. And you may tell General Patton as much.
Well, I believe we are prepared to make our first incision into the Soviet bear! Pip pip gentlemen, and may God be with us.
Really George? Berlin? So short sighted. Now, a heroic march into Warsaw, thats a different beast all together. Shattering Soviet lines ... liberating the Poles ... history making stuff there. Sounds like my kind of field.
So, what are we betting this time? Alcohol or something more interesting? Oh, by the way, I told Truman I was categorically refusing your challenge of a race, so don't be surprised when he tells you so. Of course we're still on though; the way I see it this will be the signature race! You got me one on Palermo and I got you one on-Well, I maintain we would have weathered through Rommel with or without your unique blend of Yankee brashess but we've had this argument.
Anyway, Warsaw. And don't tell Daddy this time.
-Monty
OOC: Well shucks, I feel all complimented. Its good to know I'm doing something right, and even better to hear that people who've studied and obviously know what they're doing think I'm doing something right. Scholarly feedback is really the best you can get and one I've never really gotten before on this subject. I'm really glad I joined this thread.
I'm only going to correct your French because I can feel proud that I know enough about that language to do so. Take no offense. I'm not usually good in French class, but this is great. Anyway, that would be, to say "it is a pleasure working with you," [Merci, mon ami.] Travailler avec vouz, ce me plait. (I hope so. If you speak French, then I've learned something horribly wrong... Or I am just wrong altogether, Well that was my moment of glory.)
Anyway, I would just like a little clarification. I know the Germans are hitting Berlin from the south, but what, exactly, is the provisional group of the American 1st and 3rd doing? I saw hammer and anvil several times, but I've never bothered to learn precisely what that maneuver is. Anyway, details would be appreciated in this explanation.
I'll be back in due time to post my first RP post, which will be more introduction of the character I'd like to center on during the war when I choose to go into detailed battle.
First I would like to apologize for the odd state of my previous message and lack of communication since. I would also like to state that the rumors of my death are untrue and the individual responsible for all such issues has been dealt with.
Now, on to business. First I would like to register my support for General Sir Bernard Montgomery's analysis of the north-western situation. Upon landing my forces and destroying the Soviet 19th army I will split my forces. I will remain near the landing zone along with the Polish I Corps to potentially attack the Soviet 28th or Berlin as well as hold the bay. I will send the Polish II Corps down the Vistula River under the command of General Wladyslaw Anders to seize as many supplies and strategic points as possible while the element of surprise holds. I do not intend to have them go as far as Warsaw as I don't believe they will be a match for the guard unit in the area alone.
Bringing up Generalfieldmarshall Manstien's concern, I assure that my countrymen are people of fortitude and they understand that destruction of the enemy is the first step before we can reclaim our motherland in full.
As for the generous offer of aid from the British RAF, I believe that such resources would be better used in softening the expected counterattack from Berlin. However, as our attack will be from the sea it is in navel power that our true advantage will lay. I understand that forces are stretched thin, but whatever warships or carriers could be afforded by any nation would be appreciated and make for a considerably easier time as well as offer some protection from enemy response.
For your consideration,
Wladyslaw Sikorski, Prime Minister of the Polish Government in Exile, General Inspector of the Armed Forces
In the western front at that time the Polish national forces commanded by General Wladyslaw Sikorski were comprised of around 230,000 men by most accounts. They were mostly divided as follows:
Polish I Corps
> Polish 1st Armoured Division
> Polish 1st Independent Parachute Brigade
Polish II Corps
> Polish 3rd Carpathian Rifle Division
> Polish 5th Kresowa Infantry Division
> Polish 2nd Armoured Brigade
Though the units were listed as corps, divisions, and so on they were almost all operating well outside common manpower definitions as, for example, the two corps each had slightly over 100,000 soldiers in each. Though this list lacks most of the minor segmentation as well as many independent units these were the most important segments of the Polish Army at that time.
Since you use airborne troops, I should inform you that such troops would have a certain kind of tank, though only a few since they are airborne and they are only a brigade, even though you said it would be larger than the usual brigade. Anyway, the armor used by your 1st Independent Parachute Brigade would be the M-22 Locust [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M22_Locust] airborne light tank. I am not sure whether or not you really would use it, since you say parachute brigade, not just airborne, and the Locust would have been glider-borne. Anyway, if it is applicable, use it.
Well the unit lists come right off of Wiki and are probably hardly conclusive. The major concept I was trying to get across is: My forces are slit into 2 major operating units of roughly equal strength. This is just the framing device and historical information I decided to use rather then 'another letter to the generals'.
Incidentally: Glider tank=awesome. Impractical, but awesome.
Interestingly, they actually put them in gliders. That means they have essentially paper-thin armor and a main gun the size of a pea-shooter, but it can fit on a glider.
Khedive Rex said:
Good day fellows. With war briming I'm sure we'll all appreciate a healthy dose of brevity.
In response to Right Honorable Wladyslaw Sikorski, if you feel you can make the landing without our RAF lads we're certainly not going to foist them on you. The chaps will be just as happy harassing Continental Soviets as Costal Soviets. As for ships, this being a rather important landing and one of the few we're likely to make in the early segment of our campaign, I raised the issue with Churchill and he has agreed you should be lent your pick of Her Royal Majesty's vessels (provided they are currently docked above the Mediterranean and east of the Atlantic of course. The only vessels that would reach you in a timely manner). We have a fine selection of carriers and war ships, I hope you'll find them to your liking.
To Prestigious General Manstein, that is both accurate and infinitely more concise. My men are at the ready and awaiting the go. On a more personal note, I'm ashamed to admit my German is far weaker than I would like, but I am versed enough to know when a compliment is thrown my way. Unfortunately the closest, geographically, I could respond in kind you may be unenthusiastic to here. Merci mon ami. A travailez avec vous, c'est une plaisir.
Adressing Daring President Truman, it will indeed be vital to come behind the Soviet's western wall. As for who you choose to head the American 1st and 3rd armies, its hardly my business. General George Patton was a very capable tactician in my experiences with the man. I'm sure he'll do a smashing job.
On the subject of races, I'm afraid the stakes are merely too high. I'm frankly shocked Patton would suggest such frivilous behavior in the opening stages of what will undoubtedly be the most severe war of our generation. Its nothing less than the western world at stake. No, I'm afraid I've matured since our romp to Palermo. And you may tell General Patton as much.
Well, I believe we are prepared to make our first incision into the Soviet bear! Pip pip gentlemen, and may God be with us.
Really George? Berlin? So short sighted. Now, a heroic march into Warsaw, thats a different beast all together. Shattering Soviet lines ... liberating the Poles ... history making stuff there. Sounds like my kind of field.
So, what are we betting this time? Alcohol or something more interesting? Oh, by the way, I told Truman I was categorically refusing your challenge of a race, so don't be surprised when he tells you so. Of course we're still on though; the way I see it this will be the signature race! You got me one on Palermo and I got you one on-Well, I maintain we would have weathered through Rommel with or without your unique blend of Yankee brashess but we've had this argument.
Anyway, Warsaw. And don't tell Daddy this time.
-Monty
OOC: Well shucks, I feel all complimented. Its good to know I'm doing something right, and even better to hear that people who've studied and obviously know what they're doing think I'm doing something right. Scholarly feedback is really the best you can get and one I've never really gotten before on this subject. I'm really glad I joined this thread.
Also, just two things, both of which I feel bad about having to say, but it's really for your benefit later on and maybe even immediately. First, technically, writing as George would be inappropriate, but I'm assuming you know that. Obviously, that is so minor at this point I don't much care, plus the correspondence is entertaining, but I should still mention the strict rule of controlling only one's own soldiers and general RP, including a letter from Patton, unfortunately. As I said, I don't much care here, but generally avoid doing it in all forms.
Second, this being just a tip, and I have no way to force you guys to do this, I just want to be as helpful as possible, but in terms of my forces, I think Rex's original, awe-inspiring post was more-or-less the best first-strike plan. The idea of hitting for Warsaw is probably no the best idea, and, again, I can't do anything for you, but that allows me to cut you off very easily. The idea of using Patton's combined force to assist the Germans in attacking Berlin seems better and more likely to succeed, since the Germans are not likely to do anything grand by their own, little selves. The suggestion of cutting off the north by systematically stalling the south and flanking the northern forces, as Rex recommended, is something I don't have much to respond for. Obviously, I have plenty of cannon-fodder which I plan to use, but, generally speaking, I will be more staggered by the vital strikes in the north than by your running through my open gates and passing up the troops which can eat you up if unattended to. Just a thought. Now, do whatever the hell you want with my men. I just thought I'd throw in another pair of cents.
OOC:Teddy, the Americans will help to take Berlin then become the hammer to the 9th's anvil. And because I don't particularly want to write another letter, I think that prehaps digging in on the Vistula is a bit impractical, seeing as though it passes through Warsaw. So instead I propose that we instead move to consolidate any gains the Poles have made. The Wermacht should probably hold Berlin in the event of a massive Soviet counter-attack. What do you guys think? We can't completely cut off the Soviets anyway but if we were to send either one of the American Armies supporting the Wermacht east we could make a pretty big land grab.
OOC: Well, it's more that the American 3rd and 1st will combine, then take on the Russian 33rd and head for Berlin while several groups of bombers and fighters suppress the remaining Russian forces near the 9th so the combined 3rd and 1st can get to Berlin with minimal time delay and casualties, and leave the Russian forces heavily damaged so the 9th wouldn't have to worry about a counter attack. As for the other nations, I'll just try to assist them where I can along the way.
Anyway, letter:
Well, it sounds like we have this all sorted out. We can launch soon.
Also, General Monty, I am glad that you have rejected that hothead Patton's wager. I want a thorough operation, and I don't think that can be accomplished with a race. I only really told you because, personally, I'm a little afraid of George.
But, on to business: We launch in but a few hours, as soon as dawn as struck over our brave soldiers. It shall be on this day that the world shall know that the West did not just sit idly by and fade out into the darkness, but at least gave it their all, and damned their enemies to their last breath to keep their way of life alive. Good luck, men, and those Russians better hope that God is on their side, as that s what they will need to defend themselves from our crushing might. Godspeed, gentlemen.
~Harry S. Truman
To: That Limey Bastard In The Fancy Coat.
You think you can beat me to Warsaw? Well, guess what, I beat you to Palermo, I can beat you to fucking Hong Kong if I wanted to. You got yourself a deal, Monty, loser buys winner a night on the town. I'll just have to break through the Ruskie line that's stopping your boys first, maybe help those Krauts in Berlin while I'm at it. Probably get myself a few more medals. Remember, I bring a lot of company, so bring some extra money.
Love,
George.
OOC: It's going to be fun writing these letters from Patton...
One last note before all hell breaks loose is your time table. The attack, as mentioned, is scheduled to begin before dawn, so about 2:45, maybe, on May 18, 1945. The Poles may already be at sea, meaning they can land under cover of darkness at evening time on May 19, and the central assault will be able to reach Berlin, sensibly, on early on May 20, still with sufficient strategic and tactical surprise. I will allow my forces full awareness of the situation on May 24, meaning your element of surprise will be totally gone, and a counter-attack will be available to me at a certain time after that, depending on the collective situation. Also, my Asian front troops will be deployed on the 24, with an alliance with Japan being reached the next day.
I'm only going to correct your French because I can feel proud that I know enough about that language to do so. Take no offense. I'm not usually good in French class, but this is great. Anyway, that would be, to say "it is a pleasure working with you," [Merci, mon ami.] Travailler avec vouz, ce me plait. (I hope so. If you speak French, then I've learned something horribly wrong... Or I am just wrong altogether, Well that was my moment of glory.)
Anyway, I would just like a little clarification. I know the Germans are hitting Berlin from the south, but what, exactly, is the provisional group of the American 1st and 3rd doing? I saw hammer and anvil several times, but I've never bothered to learn precisely what that maneuver is. Anyway, details would be appreciated in this explanation.
Damn! Its been so long since French class. Ah well, Monty wouldn't have spoken great French... I don't think.
A Hammer and Anvil maneuver is when two cooperating armies sourround a third enemy army or collection of armies, one from the front and one from the back. The Army in front pushes forward (typically quickly or violently) while the forces behind harass the enemy forces and prevent them from retreating. The idea is to crush the army the way you would crush something if you were hitting it with a hammer. You need something solid and resolute to hit the material against, otherwise it just pushes away.
As far as I'm aware we're not actually going to Warsaw in the first move. I was thinking of that more as a mid-war goal. At the beggining of the campaign I think we should limit ourselves to Berlin. I still think the Wehrmacht should fortify the Vistula so as to cut supplies. The American 3rd and 1st should fortify Berlin and move against the Russian western flank. And the RAF is going to hit Berlin and the Soviet Western front. My 2nd army is going to take the 70th and then assault northern Berlin.
If theres any further questions I'm gonna guess we'll be best off if you interpret the plan as you think is best.
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