tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67933909152462474462024-03-13T12:45:01.988-07:00 FRONT AND CENTER!!The news of the day for the MOSCOW FRONT, a historical wargaming club in Moscow, IdahoTIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-30675752949004148582014-09-08T18:12:00.000-07:002014-09-08T18:12:09.707-07:00A New Regime!!Greetings fellow gamers!<br />
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The STAVKA wishes to announce a new leadership for the Front. The Komissar has seen fit to step in and serve as Front Coordinator until further notice. The outgoing Front Coordinator, Beau Tanner has traveled to greener pastures, and we all here wish him the best of luck.<br />
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However, the war continues...<br />
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the 13th of September is our next club meeting. If you have an idea of what you would like to play, or would like to bring something, please email the club and let us know. If nothing else, if you have Flames of War armies bring a 1000 pt late war list. <br />
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We do have a little business to discuss, but it shouldn't take too long.<br />
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See you all there!TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-87538878617091697862014-01-30T13:01:00.000-08:002014-01-30T13:01:24.076-08:00Missions set for the Winter Offensive, with a little twist...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LISTEN UP PUKES!!! This may save your life... or mine.</td></tr>
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The STAVKA has determined the best manner to accomplish this operation is to plow straight into the foe with 6 pre-determined missions: 2 "Defensive" missions, two "Mobile Battle missions, and a pair of "Fair Fight" missions.<br />
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The STAVKA has determined that the Defensive missions will consist of "Surrounded", and "Hold the Line". The FairFight missions will be "Dustup", and "Encounter". Lastly the Mobile Battle missions will consist of "Breakthrough", and "Roadblock".<br />
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There is going to be a small twist, however. Instead of rotating missions and tables as is traditional in a Flame of War tournament, the missions as determined will be assigned to a table and attached to that table. Officers will draw lots to determine which mission they will undertake with priority consideration for "Red on Blue" issues, skill level, and victories, and rotate between tables. Yes, there may be a chance that officers may play the same mission twice (that issue is the lowest priority).<br />
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Please take this new intelligence and make the best use of it when forming your company/battalion lists.<br />
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Any questions should be taken up with the Komissar at <br />
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moscowfront@yahoo.com<br />
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It is VERRRRRRRRY much suggested that officers confirm their readiness status early, and provide a list to assist the STAVKA in organizing this offensive smoothly and effectively.<br />
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<br />TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-58598473049912731932014-01-21T10:43:00.002-08:002014-01-21T10:43:15.807-08:00Meeting low key, but productive and fun...Yes, the numbers were low for this first meeting, but the core did attend and put together many details for the next six months of activities.<br />
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Tops on the list is the upcoming Moscow Winter Offensive. We've set the date for 22 February, 2014, at Strategy and Games on 6th St. in Moscow. Here are the details so far...<br />
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The tournament with be themed, Late War, multi-front, winter books only. Tournament lists will be considered valid from the following books: Desperate Measures, Blood, Guts, and Glory, the ENTIRE Bastogne series, Gray Wolf, & Red Bear, including the latest errata and updates.<br />
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Here's the "monkey wrench"... the lists are limited to BOTH 1650 points, <u>and</u> four platoons (combat, weapons, or support). That being said, the mandatory 2 combat platoon rule is waived, only 1 combat platoon is required.<br />
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The will be prize support, with a discount for early entry. Lists are due by the 20th, but we would love to have player commitments as soon as possible.<br />
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The next big item was discussion about a Summer Offensive event, later June, with a Normandy theme. More on that later!<br />
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Also, in conjunction with S & G, we will try to dedicate the last Saturday of the month to FoW Ranger events, promoting and teaching the system we all enjoy.<br />
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Lastly, the Moscow Front wishes to publicly issue a club challenge to Da Mommaz Boyz, for a tournament-style event in Flames of War. This is intended to be a friendly affair, and if the challenge is accepted the details can be ironed out.<br />
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That is all the news deemed fit by the Information Komissariat for your consumption.<br />
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Remember, Victory is Forward!TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-24978084592134048162014-01-13T18:24:00.002-08:002014-01-13T18:24:56.996-08:00First Meeting of the Year 2014!!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGMnddZlI24gUWTZKxeFf1fWzUnS5X6nw2ZogYZbYoKPPASQu0c4dLGektY-TzSsMToNl49vwBmwgKsZU1X8mZm0B5Xy77Wr8wZqUjeHevBIpYzj-xIVbwWwJ2QL3aTrtt0hHCFKBYCwY/s1600/Capture_27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGMnddZlI24gUWTZKxeFf1fWzUnS5X6nw2ZogYZbYoKPPASQu0c4dLGektY-TzSsMToNl49vwBmwgKsZU1X8mZm0B5Xy77Wr8wZqUjeHevBIpYzj-xIVbwWwJ2QL3aTrtt0hHCFKBYCwY/s320/Capture_27.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wow!! That's a lot of brown!</td></tr>
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Komerades!!<br />
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It's time to come together again this Saturday, the 18th at Strategy and Games in Mosocow! <br />
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On the docket is some Flames of War with some late war 1800pt pickup games. If that is too big for you, the store's FoW Ranger group is hosting 600pt teaching games so that soon, newcomers can join in on the 1800pt action! <br />
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The group will also host a terrain clinic, with emphasis on hill building.<br />
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Also, if we can find the room, is some PanzerBlitz boardgame action.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When 85mm just isn't quite enough.</td></tr>
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The Front Coordinator also wants us to remember that on the 25th, there will be a FoW "Open Fire" event, 800pts, latewar, infantry and light to medium tanks only. Email the club for more details as that situation clarifies.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Be there... or face the Komissar!!</td></tr>
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TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-83612394996704846592013-12-03T18:42:00.000-08:002013-12-03T18:42:23.220-08:00STAVKA plan for operations in the next 180 days...On a dark, dismal afternoon the STAVKA of the Moscow Front met to plan for the immediate future,<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marshall Zhukov and staff</td></tr>
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concerning operations. As of this date all times, dates, operations and codenames are ALL SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. Please refer to this and subsequent dispatches for changes. Oh yes, there will be changes.<br />
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The intent is to let everyone know what is coming, and to be able to plan accordingly. This is by no means a complete list. Again... there will be changes.<br />
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OPERATION: RED NOSE<br />
TENTATIVE DATE: 7 December, 2013<br />
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The STAVKA realizes that with the holidays coming up, much, if not most of our time will be with family. We plan a light meeting day, no games planned as yet, but hope to work as a terrain making day.<br />
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OPERATION: DEEP FREEZE<br />
TENTATIVE DATE: 18 January, 2014<br />
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Again, time is a precious commodity and we want to keep club demands as light as possible this month. The Komissar will bring his Panzerblitz game, and introduce victims to the fine art of Avalon Hill wargaming.<br />
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OPERATION: MOSCOW WINTER OFFENSIVE<br />
TENTATIVE DATE: 15 February thru 22 February, 2014<br />
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Early spring is going to be busy with planning and executing an open FoW tournament, period and points TBD. 15 Feb. is our scheduled meeting date, and can be used to finalize tournament plans if necessary. the 22nd is the hard date of the tournament, additional details will be released as they are finalized.<br />
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OPERATION: GRUNTING GROUNDPOUNDER<br />
TENTATIVE DATE: 28 February to 22 March, 2014<br />
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The Front will be conducting FoW infantry operations using the Infantry Aces format. More details as they become available.<br />
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OPERATION: CITADEL<br />
TENTATIVE DATE: 5 April, 2014<br />
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The Komissar is planning a midwar FoW event covering the battle of Prokohrovka using historical maps, a simplified OB, and FoW midwar rules. The intent is to have all figures/models provided, but if you are interested and have MW German and Soviet armies, please contact the Komissar to see how you can contribute. More details will be coming by early March.<br />
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OPERATION; ENFILADE<br />
TENTATIVE DATE: late May, 2014<br />
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The Font is making plans to possibly attend the HMGS convention in Olympia this spring, so the May calendar will be cleared. This is highly subject to change so stay vigilant!<br />
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OPERATION: OVERLORD<br />
TENTATIVE DATE: June, 2014<br />
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The Front will plan/host a D-Day campaign/tournament in commemoration of the greatest amphibious landing in history. Details will be released sometime soon.<br />
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There it is, a planning framework for the next few months or so. We hope this helps, and hope everyone is able to assist and participate. We realize that there is much deadspace in the schedule, please feel free to contact us via email ( moscowfront@yahoo.com ) to make suggestions and perhaps fill the gaps. This club is what we make of it, and we all work for its success.<br />
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the Komissar<br />
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TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-47897008982683025672013-12-02T11:04:00.000-08:002013-12-02T18:18:34.513-08:00Book Review and some FoW Intel analysis...Greetings tankmen!!<br />
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Today I want to introduce you to the the book "T-34 in Action: Soviet Tank Troops in WW2"</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMb1V9fvaIzleefwkGsmuD4XiMfIf4YLvgooufbtlLcpB0NL5uv6eStr2SeNeVvDHao-WGXehf8VpY5MfBueSJTfGpxrL7FhLAjSEZC9P2iosna1I0-5nu_ubA0JZknr9rPUmVdIkQfFI/s1600/th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMb1V9fvaIzleefwkGsmuD4XiMfIf4YLvgooufbtlLcpB0NL5uv6eStr2SeNeVvDHao-WGXehf8VpY5MfBueSJTfGpxrL7FhLAjSEZC9P2iosna1I0-5nu_ubA0JZknr9rPUmVdIkQfFI/s1600/th.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Drabkin and Sheremet</td></tr>
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By Artem Drabkin and Oleg Sheremet. This is an account of oral histories, and yes, that should give the serious reader some pause. Drabkin and Sheremet address that issue, admitting that oral histories, often decades after the fact (even minutes after the fact), tend to be a little "incongruent with other established facts". Relax, in this instance the "drift"isn't so bad as the the value of this book isn't necessarily in the details of where and when, but the what and how of these men's experiences. </div>
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The book offers12 chapters, each focusing on the wartime experiences of 12 Red Army tank men of various ranks, from driver to battalion commander, how they entered the tank forces, their training, and their experiences at the front. There are many parallels in each man's story, most were called to tank training after having some automotive or technical/mechanical experience. They were often whisked away to training centers, and/or deposited at the factories to assist in the assembly of their own tanks. With limited tactical training, they were swiftly left to their own devices facing down the panzerwaffe, often with dismal, grisly results. Most men have lost many friends and crewmates, as well as having several tanks shot out from under them. Supplies were often scarce, having to do for themselves in many cases. The road west toward Berlin was a terrifying and torturous one, but they were survivors. Even though their stories were sanitized and polished for the best possible effect, meaning nearly everyone was dutiful, dashing, brave, competent, and bold, one can find the nuggets of truth and piece together a picture of a tank man's life, short as it may have been. Each story is entertaining, and can be riveting if the reader can sympathize with the storyteller. As a former tanker, these stories are a bit richer and fuller in my view having shared many of the experiences they speak of. </div>
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OK, so what about the "intel analysis"? Having finished, I find a bit more clarity to the new changes to Soviet lists in Flames of War. Desperate Measures "luckier, smarter, sharper" is taken directly from ch 9. The book goes on and on about replacement vehicles and crews, how the new commanders never lasted long, and those who did survive went through a gauntlet of fire to get there. They continue in describing the horrendous losses they suffered, and how they kept battering the Germans with everything they had, despite how often they had very little to work with.<br />
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Clearly, much of the inspiration for "DM", from the Soviet perspective at least, is taken from Drabken and Sheremet, and if players can't wrap their heads around the new changes coming to the Red Army lists, I highly suggest reading this book. For the casual Soviet player, or opponents of Soviet players, much of the new changes may be a shock and make little sense. Agreeably, there are many preconceived notions about Soviet armor, and much of that may be the fault of a 'top-down' approach to research and game design. However, I was always struck by how 'bottom-up' FoW is, and how it is in constant struggle with 'top-down' game designs and 'top-down' game thinking. I can't say this is a whole new design perspective, using turret-side combat accounts versus the General's report to High Command, but in this case it may appear to make the Soviet forces a bit more realistic, and perhaps a bit more competitive with other LW lists. Regardless, "T-34 in Action" was very entertaining, and enlightening.</div>
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I would give it a rating of 8 out of 10 spare track links. </div>
TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-88988934131799889032013-11-27T18:27:00.005-08:002013-11-27T23:23:16.709-08:00Allied Forces CRUSHED by the Axis at TANKSGIVING 2013!!!The best steel the Allied forces could muster was no match for the King Tiger horde that rolled onto the battlefield, but that didn't mean the Allies wouldn't try their best!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhydphaI9GNC9yKYDLaLTO4jGI1jQkzx-8HYS3zWorlZtQIgG6QGC14vT0iRarzmWrnttBGbYyT0rdwZUKtockraH1B5C5lyRw3Hrpgzg0Etdc97kxbCTI7dQJHi7LFH7qUKjh1oX-RaCQ/s1600/2013-11-23+11.26.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhydphaI9GNC9yKYDLaLTO4jGI1jQkzx-8HYS3zWorlZtQIgG6QGC14vT0iRarzmWrnttBGbYyT0rdwZUKtockraH1B5C5lyRw3Hrpgzg0Etdc97kxbCTI7dQJHi7LFH7qUKjh1oX-RaCQ/s640/2013-11-23+11.26.14.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the field looking SSW to the NNE. The Allied forces would take defensive positions west of the main road.</td></tr>
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IN THIS CORNER!! THEEEEEEE Axis!<br />
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Len's Panther and JagdPanther companies<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEion3gomDp4Qyg0wCjHw4AjrovCFMIKb21JGMnyaM_3XyqCv_pXkuBge80DeXYtZshFGxU7lQi0GiK_M0l64yUMN8lV1l8XlLWYpO52b2h39jljCoeRdA3DTJIzev0B0pMACo-uDXWz9Lg/s1600/2013-11-23+11.05.52-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEion3gomDp4Qyg0wCjHw4AjrovCFMIKb21JGMnyaM_3XyqCv_pXkuBge80DeXYtZshFGxU7lQi0GiK_M0l64yUMN8lV1l8XlLWYpO52b2h39jljCoeRdA3DTJIzev0B0pMACo-uDXWz9Lg/s400/2013-11-23+11.05.52-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Marder II's look so cute don't they?</td></tr>
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Here's a special look at Len's winter Panthers… I love these things!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG1D-qmbALM5ZOx2FyAJQpuKiUU1Q6UyQNQU87IDnzW5-S-xr5msIFc4o2K5y23IY6pF3vafyk2iZS6mPkMTPK2QCp2KSuuErPppWsX4ml0BoF9iiegVSbzorsB74I0I5cSjN-tTNn59A/s1600/2013-11-23+11.06.00-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG1D-qmbALM5ZOx2FyAJQpuKiUU1Q6UyQNQU87IDnzW5-S-xr5msIFc4o2K5y23IY6pF3vafyk2iZS6mPkMTPK2QCp2KSuuErPppWsX4ml0BoF9iiegVSbzorsB74I0I5cSjN-tTNn59A/s400/2013-11-23+11.06.00-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7. Kompanie, 1. Zug hier und bereit!!</td></tr>
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Ken's Panther company<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4Pd2KyXd_l7i49UzfWZFhK_3A1rhV3wNlkyUEoPBQG8Oq8i_y6p8xGWJVsunVYDiO7JGDX4GRR8pHKvLT517T8bESZt97uyWBx_jxmM04zC8h07Ozw_l2rVdPnousbfyqBXSMk3f7Bo/s1600/2013-11-23+11.13.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4Pd2KyXd_l7i49UzfWZFhK_3A1rhV3wNlkyUEoPBQG8Oq8i_y6p8xGWJVsunVYDiO7JGDX4GRR8pHKvLT517T8bESZt97uyWBx_jxmM04zC8h07Ozw_l2rVdPnousbfyqBXSMk3f7Bo/s400/2013-11-23+11.13.31.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">OH yeah!! With a double helping of Panzerwerfers and crews!! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Anna's KingTiger Battalion<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcw-3stS0Cs6_d_KPAznviajTYlZWe0zv7UzOGVLlAZ2gkjIT9RJrbZBLfpNrNRgH8DXyof5ZUNK9PFIOGoyJQS_FW5cC7uc6aGlnJlv637ljdAYCpDfpniNiN9JJPXnpLSBJ4vb3wJ4U/s1600/2013-11-23+11.04.32-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcw-3stS0Cs6_d_KPAznviajTYlZWe0zv7UzOGVLlAZ2gkjIT9RJrbZBLfpNrNRgH8DXyof5ZUNK9PFIOGoyJQS_FW5cC7uc6aGlnJlv637ljdAYCpDfpniNiN9JJPXnpLSBJ4vb3wJ4U/s640/2013-11-23+11.04.32-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We all thought the mascot was awesome… but didn't figure it to be the good luck charm it was!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sadly, the late Axis entry didn't have his photos included, but Joe (one of the proprietors of our host Strategy and Games, Moscow, Idaho) brought his KingTiger company along with his panzerwerfers and FLAK 38 guns to the show. In all, including air, the Axis began the match in very strong terms.<br />
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<br />
<br />
AAAAAAND IN THIS CORNER!! THEEEEEEEEE AXIS!!<br />
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<br />
<br />
The Komissar's Tankovy Brigade<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH_ciSmsbcbaqxBNXsfLrHex7845x3aIo9SxmEC7aNAvdzdFo1zrP7ozsc3w3V-PzFq-xtb3SgIC6mubF3_jWvKx2weygJwDxfyjEEXuxLEZR_HVMbLfHp87nSea4DFufsGoWdMFrqvdo/s1600/2013-11-23+10.57.18-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH_ciSmsbcbaqxBNXsfLrHex7845x3aIo9SxmEC7aNAvdzdFo1zrP7ozsc3w3V-PzFq-xtb3SgIC6mubF3_jWvKx2weygJwDxfyjEEXuxLEZR_HVMbLfHp87nSea4DFufsGoWdMFrqvdo/s640/2013-11-23+10.57.18-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"they look like good, strong, hands…"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
The Front Coordinator's Tank Battalion</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN_5h61tHYcqfjdpWD7TupQK0LNrvlD39DxeQ_EDTrTjaXK-d91-PpAE9Ts9RHj2JeGEfwadus23aW5U3-nH8fHbmanYqPa4R29QdShgfMw0rNxtLDXsDRcu4xq6LGBeCutD0D0O7Sl7E/s1600/2013-11-23+11.07.35-1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN_5h61tHYcqfjdpWD7TupQK0LNrvlD39DxeQ_EDTrTjaXK-d91-PpAE9Ts9RHj2JeGEfwadus23aW5U3-nH8fHbmanYqPa4R29QdShgfMw0rNxtLDXsDRcu4xq6LGBeCutD0D0O7Sl7E/s640/2013-11-23+11.07.35-1-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"It's not easy, being green…"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<br />
The Newbie's Tank Company<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq1OW7qhEKJ7CKhDOYVm0-P0JJDjm-0qIDLs_jFHq9cdgq1xvFfA9WO37vL2CWWtGhJ9T3tee6ckBjCmh0LIRKLU7tWbUciwn20NS1YaDT_xvogAS1fopyUTdZm8UFCqbbBygLo7B-Hog/s1600/2013-11-23+11.13.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq1OW7qhEKJ7CKhDOYVm0-P0JJDjm-0qIDLs_jFHq9cdgq1xvFfA9WO37vL2CWWtGhJ9T3tee6ckBjCmh0LIRKLU7tWbUciwn20NS1YaDT_xvogAS1fopyUTdZm8UFCqbbBygLo7B-Hog/s640/2013-11-23+11.13.44.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you spell cannon-fodder?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Now that the abusers and victims have been introduced, let's take a gander at the initial deployments.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtDnX3Y5OirLtgkKBhl4deHykqlO7ze1Iw9nSp032yB5r1HhdholwEcQxdb0chnaMkaR8dL9zrFrH-NyzmGLEJEaQK6Ov6tHusfszn1duzVDrCfpVHgEgzOhN8OsypJw_W9UiT1ne89is/s1600/2013-11-23+12.46.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtDnX3Y5OirLtgkKBhl4deHykqlO7ze1Iw9nSp032yB5r1HhdholwEcQxdb0chnaMkaR8dL9zrFrH-NyzmGLEJEaQK6Ov6tHusfszn1duzVDrCfpVHgEgzOhN8OsypJw_W9UiT1ne89is/s640/2013-11-23+12.46.56.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking at the field from the NNW to the SSE...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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From the beginning, it doesn't look good for the Allies. Can they pull out a victory? Perhaps a close defeat with honor? Find out in part two, after the Thanksgiving holiday.<br />
<br />
the Komissar<br />
<br />TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-51501714364526753892013-11-18T18:20:00.000-08:002013-11-18T18:20:28.573-08:00Front meeting of 16 November successful!!Most of the principals were in attendance, However Ken Williams was unable to attend due to illness (get better soon). Bob came and brought his mammoth (and boy do I mean m a m m o t h) Normandy game.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTZ1SxWH1VPoxX9k7qzimCmBFiJKuM6EVE24ENybaNuitiSdJ3kAM5G8TJGMyq536bpAaDVGdudpii-C3138yaYLIKzbk12LiUKr2Mxoo8gh_OgjIaxe-9OaKiC0JGORVdR4i0bVT7GU/s1600/2013-11-16+10.36.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTZ1SxWH1VPoxX9k7qzimCmBFiJKuM6EVE24ENybaNuitiSdJ3kAM5G8TJGMyq536bpAaDVGdudpii-C3138yaYLIKzbk12LiUKr2Mxoo8gh_OgjIaxe-9OaKiC0JGORVdR4i0bVT7GU/s640/2013-11-16+10.36.36.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep, that's Normandy, and the Lion's share of western France...</td></tr>
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This monster is set at the battalion level, and as you can well see it's pretty well in depth. Heck, just the landings alone (the uppermost-right mapsheet) would be an epic battle. Sadly, we backed away from committing to that battle, but look forward to a report on it in the near future.<br />
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On to other fronts, the Komissar brought one of his ISU 122's to show off his barrel swaps.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs_FAyAJI5H4spXIDQPBHMAXG6jY7nNmcHyg701t4rbohQY6kzbrIqk3NF3Ig-_lcKBW2qKlHgtpRhehlq40KXWFx2Hwzi9gKqsmtg3XOJti6CsIpgbFlDgk3a2D1UhKmDym_2W35jGP8/s1600/2013-11-06+15.40.17-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs_FAyAJI5H4spXIDQPBHMAXG6jY7nNmcHyg701t4rbohQY6kzbrIqk3NF3Ig-_lcKBW2qKlHgtpRhehlq40KXWFx2Hwzi9gKqsmtg3XOJti6CsIpgbFlDgk3a2D1UhKmDym_2W35jGP8/s640/2013-11-06+15.40.17-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ISU 122's, and fine big lads they are...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The original barrels were swapped out with metal tubing of roughly the same size. About 1/4 inch longer than stock, they do seem more intimidating than normal... which is the intent.<br />
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Finally we come to the meat and potatoes of the meeting, the official announcement that Ken Williams will stand down as "Front Coordinator and STAVKA Representative". Than post will now be manned by Beau Tanner. Ken was beginning to become concerned that the position needed more attentions than he has been able to give, and it was agreed that Beau has plenty of energy, and a passion for the club and its mission here on the Palouse.<br />
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With that, the meeting broke down to its gaming phase, and we decided to give the old classic with a new twist "Axis and Allies" a spin.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvEyJN5urGlxWG02Hhqsu29DupdyEJuU0F1Fuyk6iR-zl9Re6y6yJ188hYNrXiTkNPrMeRWZGWjBg_sLWT-qrpsAMi5UajB61G7PlgNk5VOTbMjF3_4OfwO_XP8m0GAJPay-KoOg7ohtw/s1600/2013-11-16+13.02.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvEyJN5urGlxWG02Hhqsu29DupdyEJuU0F1Fuyk6iR-zl9Re6y6yJ188hYNrXiTkNPrMeRWZGWjBg_sLWT-qrpsAMi5UajB61G7PlgNk5VOTbMjF3_4OfwO_XP8m0GAJPay-KoOg7ohtw/s640/2013-11-16+13.02.55.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beau, Keith, and Bob plot world domination...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It became obvious pretty quickly that we had bitten off more than we could chew... but that has NEVER stopped<u> us</u> before!! We went at each other like crazed dogs and as the final, soul-crushing turns ended the fighting around 4am... Beau and his Axis armies won the day. But, as always with the Moscow Front, we live to fight again another day.<br />
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That's about it for the meeting. All are in good spirits about Tanksgiving this-coming Saturday, the 23rd. The trash talk and posturing are already starting.<br />
<br />
-the KomissarTIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-90117095744882033702013-11-13T18:32:00.000-08:002013-11-13T18:32:06.330-08:00SPOT REPORT!! BattleFront is closing in on Berlin…<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio0YAiDGXJLzpO7ozqE4WiR8xYtN5cVIHqrL0dHbz5WTxWAhGq0tqu_qcesLFcFMUojsm-Fn7IZqnwkt0mHNzaYtpiZKf70ZbiNI3R8kBTKtfvgeUSX2sehhH5hQMSQrqiosSLFjSapEE/s1600/Desperate+Measures+Cover+web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio0YAiDGXJLzpO7ozqE4WiR8xYtN5cVIHqrL0dHbz5WTxWAhGq0tqu_qcesLFcFMUojsm-Fn7IZqnwkt0mHNzaYtpiZKf70ZbiNI3R8kBTKtfvgeUSX2sehhH5hQMSQrqiosSLFjSapEE/s400/Desperate+Measures+Cover+web.jpg" width="280" /></a></div>
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This book is yet to be released, but if the WWPD boys are on their game (and they usually are) this should be a game changer for both Soviet and German lists. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Click on the link for the WWPD review</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c232;">http://www.wwpd.net/2013/11/desperate-measures-reviewed-and-spoiled.html</span></div>
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There is no release date yet, but stay tuned.</div>
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TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-89239391032202481032013-11-06T18:31:00.002-08:002013-11-13T18:04:54.520-08:00TANKSGIVING SET FOR 23 NOVEMBER...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxJ6GTMyAUTU8RgE8AvYvynq_cNosdNGMIMjeej9A8u1hDbWaPEEBwVoO7_uqbdpY9k8yYGC8sXgPJvnoSqdoASjQBO6Fu3hTPaFoUGP8rKGaUiRLRVPoUXDezAHwqFA-jsBbk9NvFuI/s1600/TG6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="505" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxJ6GTMyAUTU8RgE8AvYvynq_cNosdNGMIMjeej9A8u1hDbWaPEEBwVoO7_uqbdpY9k8yYGC8sXgPJvnoSqdoASjQBO6Fu3hTPaFoUGP8rKGaUiRLRVPoUXDezAHwqFA-jsBbk9NvFuI/s640/TG6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes… we ARE excited!!<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Strategy and Games in Moscow is hosting the annual "Tanksgiving" event on </span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">Saturday, 23 November</span><span style="font-size: small;"> beginning at </span><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">10:30 am</span><span style="font-size: small;">. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">LIST RULES:</span></div>
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Each player creates an open, LateWar tank company list with a limit of <span style="color: #e06666;">1500 points</span>. </div>
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The combat platoons MUST be rated as tank teams, and each platoon MUST have at least half the teams rated as tank teams.</div>
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Each company may have only one infantry platoon as support, and as many guns teams as is legal for the company list.</div>
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No air power is to be included in the list. (See special rules below)</div>
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Each player may bring up to 4 companies, each company no greater than 1500 points, to a limit of 6000 total points. If your company list is greater than 1500 points, you must purchase an additional company.<br />
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Players begin the game with their first company, all others are put into<br />
"Tanksgiving Reserve".<br />
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Initial buy in (for prize support) is $8, each additional 1500 pt company is $4.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnBfmcML78EUt6RYAgQvUKdmGWK92z5rzmtk3fhUlEBrioLTx5F9-2627HsKl4F06637_3J09U2QIADkkPBwdnsIRLvTOUNucjqOw4OMmdJECmiJfkQ5CKuSkqnBUxonnjOk-JoqANpA/s1600/TG7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnBfmcML78EUt6RYAgQvUKdmGWK92z5rzmtk3fhUlEBrioLTx5F9-2627HsKl4F06637_3J09U2QIADkkPBwdnsIRLvTOUNucjqOw4OMmdJECmiJfkQ5CKuSkqnBUxonnjOk-JoqANpA/s640/TG7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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There will be armies and units available to borrow BUT !!!!<br />
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We NEED communications ahead of time so we can provide it for you. Please do so at<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">moscowfront@yahoo.com</span><br />
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All others NEED to RSVP and let us know that you are coming, so that we can provide the best gaming experience possible.<br />
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All questions should be directed to "the Komissar" at<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">moscowfront@yahoo.com</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5oX52Yosuw-o9wGb4ZvpgRkC94JBTfIyDgWAFkXrP3POh8xq-FYmGp8yvWAYxaZMx1iQyvRIK4qMn491oUcn12y5RZBIIfG-ON6QpqqV7RhNXZj3Xqg4L3accxEJumPJ3FIWWm455R8/s1600/TG1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5oX52Yosuw-o9wGb4ZvpgRkC94JBTfIyDgWAFkXrP3POh8xq-FYmGp8yvWAYxaZMx1iQyvRIK4qMn491oUcn12y5RZBIIfG-ON6QpqqV7RhNXZj3Xqg4L3accxEJumPJ3FIWWm455R8/s640/TG1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-41694453882469442792013-10-16T23:10:00.000-07:002013-10-16T23:10:09.714-07:00the OCTOBERPOCALYPSE is upon us!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Octoberpocalypse will be our game event for the October 19th meeting of Moscow Front. The game will last for 24 hours, commencing at 1100 hrs on Saturday, concluding at 1059 hours on Sunday. Octoberpocalypse will be a "free mission", so to speak. It will also be a "tactical mission". Any period nation is allowed, no point limit. The entry fee will be $1 per 100 points (3000 pts = $30 entry fee). If any army is defeated (following company moral rules, of course), a "re-buy" will be allowed for $1 per platoon (first time), $2 per platoon (second time), $3 per platoon (third time), and so on and so forth... If an army is destroyed, a player would be allowed to adjust their options or support platoons before rebuying, however, they must keep the same combat platoons. For the purposes of this event, no proxies will be allowed, outside of optional upgrades (i.e., if you don't have an M5 3" gun then you cannot proxy it; however, if you have an M4A1 Sherman and you are given the option to upgrade it to an M4A4E3 Jumbo, you would not have to have that Jumbo to field that option). Additionally, only for Divisional Support, players will be allowed to take up to three options from a support box (i.e., you may field a Rifle Platoon, Engineer Combat Platoon, and an Armored Rifle Platoon, all from the Infantry Support Box [from Devil’s Charge, pp48]). Again, though, they have to be able to field the proper unit. The exception to this is air support: a player may field an air observation post and only one type of combat air support (i.e., [from Overlord, pp295] a player would be allowed to field an AOP and either a P-47 Thunderbolt or a P-38 Lightning; they would not be allowed to field both the P-47 and P-38).<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1VTBzycWRsyfFO9fX4pq4FVx4nh6P7Hgw8JuezMarM8b5XyTy1r7NeJePnD0EzHBvLcyez0oSKFfXvSy_rvJXXRslgSH0c1ccF7J8Tis-zA30EAXicke4zNMsdweTDw4hBfx29O6LnvQ/s1600/large_rus2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1VTBzycWRsyfFO9fX4pq4FVx4nh6P7Hgw8JuezMarM8b5XyTy1r7NeJePnD0EzHBvLcyez0oSKFfXvSy_rvJXXRslgSH0c1ccF7J8Tis-zA30EAXicke4zNMsdweTDw4hBfx29O6LnvQ/s400/large_rus2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This T72 has seen better days...</td></tr>
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<br /><br />The battlefield will be 5 tables strung together in an “S” shape. The terrain will be varied from hills to plains to cities. Players will be divided into two teams, competing as a team and individually; however, there will be no friendly fire (outside of artillery template drops). There will be a series of objectives scattered throughout the battlefield; there will be five major objectives to be captured or controlled by each team (each team begins play with 2 objectives under their control) and each player will have their own objective to capture. Each player may elect to hold half of their platoons in reserve, and may elect to hold two in ambush. Standard reserve and ambush rules will apply. Artillery and mortar observers would be treated as both independent and recon teams (house rule for this game) and would be allowed to make moves as such. Each side will begin the game in prepared positions. The game will begin under dawn conditions, and will proceed following time of day rules. Every 90 minutes, weather conditions will be drawn from a hat...it is possible that there will be no change. If an adverse weather condition goes into effect, then the game will proceed via those particular rules. Additionally, we will implement one house rule: all artillery batteries will be allowed to maintain TRPs. For those non-infantry/artillery types, a TRP is a target registration point—a point successfully ranged in. Once a TRP is established it will be marked and remain in play for the duration of the game; if a battery ranges in on a new location, it will still be ranged in all previous locations. However, if the battery picks up and moves, it will lose all established TRPs.<br /><br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">that side-armor save for Panthers is a bitch!!</td></tr>
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<br /><br /><br />The game will last for 24 hours. Entrants will be allowed to hold a "cease fire" should they need to go eat, take a nap, whatever. The “cease fire” can only be called for breaks greater than 30 minutes. During an individual player’s cease fire, that player’s army cannot be targeted—instead it will be pulled back to the team’s deployment area. Players will not necessarily have to rebuy immediately following their defeat...they can take an hour break, a four hour break, however long they need to re-energize. When a player buys back, though, the player buys back on the same team. Each team will have 3 major objectives, and each player will have 8 minor objectives. Each objective will be worth a set amount of points, team objectives awarded to all members of the team, individual objectives awarded to the owning player. Capturing a major objective will allow a team to capture the next objective (advance parties will be allowed, however, follow objectives cannot be captured until lead objectives are secured). Once a minor objective has been captured, it will be redeployed on the battlefield through random deployment. The game will end when a victory objective has been taken. It may be possible to play more than one game in the 24 hour period.<br /><br /> <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_aycOwEcXcfI4U768Ws1CzYgGExscE53y3DVEOCtZZ1QAhyGRq_FToIZKkrWLAaTwsMGLNFPz22N4d9Lbn7m9kn4gmGxZbnEgqwqrPOjXaRo7Rhg_G30aACvj1ivFElyDwoMcxNhiNoA/s1600/abrams24201qv5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_aycOwEcXcfI4U768Ws1CzYgGExscE53y3DVEOCtZZ1QAhyGRq_FToIZKkrWLAaTwsMGLNFPz22N4d9Lbn7m9kn4gmGxZbnEgqwqrPOjXaRo7Rhg_G30aACvj1ivFElyDwoMcxNhiNoA/s400/abrams24201qv5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I don't think the Baghdad Motor Club covers this...</td></tr>
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<br /><br />At the end of the event, the player with the most victory points wins. Potentially, first, second, third, and last places will be awarded prizes. Depending upon how many entrants we have and how large the purse is will determine what the payout will be and how many payouts there will be (there could be one payout or there could be six payouts…it is TBD at game time). Additionally, depending on the number of entrants/size of purse, there is the potential for prize support from S&G Moscow (Andrew has given his blessing).<br /> <br />So that teams are balanced fairly, players must submit to S&G Moscow their army list NLT 8:00 pm on Thursday, 17 October. Army lists will be reviewed and teams will be determined by point values and number of players.<br /><br />Battlefield Notes: buy transport units…you will need them. The two gaps in the “S” will be considered to be thick forests with no line of sight, however, artillery and rockets will be allowed to fire over the gaps as long as an observer has line of sight on the target. For purposes of deploying individual objectives, each table will be divided into sextants, and objectives placed via random deployment in a forward direction.<br /><br /> <br /><br />Major Objectives (awarded to each team member):<br /><br />(3 pts) Capture and secure a major objective<br /><br />(5 pts) Control an entire tabletop for 2 full turns<br /><br />(10 pts) Capture a victory objective<br /><br /> <br /><br />Minor Objectives (awarded to individual players):<br /><br />(2 pts) Capture individual objective<br /><br />(1 pt) Maintain 50% of army for 2 hours<br /><br />(2 pts) Maintain 75% of army for 2 hours<br /><br />(3 pts) Maintain 95% of army for 2 hours<br /><br />(4 pts) Maintain 100% of army for 2 hours<br /><br />(1 pt) Force another player to take a platoon morale check<br /><br />(3 pts) Force another player to take a company morale check<br /><br />(1 pt) Capture a teammate’s objective<br /><br /> <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXAHAazJSdttZtqRu6BLe1KjpAMUwcYF_oBbjRFrQpz21paO-vbLLaLhxHByKC3cyB2DCojizboh7JwL9KYjxPI7uDbDzMuI2yqJWt_I5mzXRrlS4JsWVIh2E8Ne8Y9QadFL5774s2sXc/s1600/bundesarchiv_bild_169-5y64.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXAHAazJSdttZtqRu6BLe1KjpAMUwcYF_oBbjRFrQpz21paO-vbLLaLhxHByKC3cyB2DCojizboh7JwL9KYjxPI7uDbDzMuI2yqJWt_I5mzXRrlS4JsWVIh2E8Ne8Y9QadFL5774s2sXc/s400/bundesarchiv_bild_169-5y64.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">it's always the armor save you miss that does you in, eh?</td></tr>
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<br />If anyone has any questions, please feel free to email Beau Tanner at <a href="mailto:beau.tanner@vandals.uidaho.edu.">beau.tanner@</a><a href="mailto:beau.tanner@vandals.uidaho.edu">vandals.uidaho.edu.</a>TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-37993675859723786692013-08-05T18:29:00.003-07:002013-08-05T18:29:58.977-07:00OFFICER'S CALL!!!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The men of the MoscowFront plan their next move...<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
Strategy and Games in Moscow is hosting a Flames of War tournament, Saturday the 17th of August. This is a MIDWAR action, with a 1500 pt limit. This one is going to go "by the book" komrades, you MUST have you list presented to S & G NO LATER THAN August 16th. It is ok to email the Easy Army pdf if necessary. The registration fee is $10 BEFORE the rounds begin.</div>
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There may be more details and clarifications forthcoming, all new information will be posted here.</div>
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Also, if the interest is there, a day of "pick up" and "tuneup" matches will be held the 10th from 10:30 till whenever. Please post an email if you are interested.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Move them out!!</td></tr>
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TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-74797438078930927542013-07-02T18:13:00.001-07:002013-07-02T18:13:20.539-07:00Moscow Front Summer Offensive Explodes!!The Front put on a 1750 point Late -War Flames of War tournament, the eve of the aniverssary of Operation Barabarossa! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiUYEPhhfTcW9yruHtkAX5flL7DuRdJ2y2Q_lHnvTwmnlm4V7HNtuigk-nvN9Qi-L486UUJFweAe3EdiJ-6867pXciZdXvPwX459u9byMVhXlQwlmdEgSBMjsK8gmz32rfRlZBcRvSte4/s1600/townboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiUYEPhhfTcW9yruHtkAX5flL7DuRdJ2y2Q_lHnvTwmnlm4V7HNtuigk-nvN9Qi-L486UUJFweAe3EdiJ-6867pXciZdXvPwX459u9byMVhXlQwlmdEgSBMjsK8gmz32rfRlZBcRvSte4/s400/townboard.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The villiage board, complete with rail yard and churchs. <br />
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All the major powers were represented, British armor and airborne, American rifles, Soviet heavy tank hoards, and of course the ever-present Germans. With 12 players registered and arriving, we finally have a full-blown "official" tournament!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtTscD4-XHKXDTyz0GZUF8Mwbf7pwX95Qmw8S86YgWO_Dy2jTQJYcrIYV5lNOVJFWty2-U9MheYj5jGeJj_D0Y2SJHNsZPfi-FaC4gqZMmRUMmpsgkOWM5KCiY3yJR8feKZGsG_w7RECM/s1600/desertboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtTscD4-XHKXDTyz0GZUF8Mwbf7pwX95Qmw8S86YgWO_Dy2jTQJYcrIYV5lNOVJFWty2-U9MheYj5jGeJj_D0Y2SJHNsZPfi-FaC4gqZMmRUMmpsgkOWM5KCiY3yJR8feKZGsG_w7RECM/s400/desertboard.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep... we had a late-war desert board. </td></tr>
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Terrain was a concern at first, but our northern contingent, the fellows from Spokane and Coeur'd Alene came through in fine style. Yes, even the dreaded "Mt Velveeta" made an appearance... again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlMMCSSVXrwqL47W-qbnNMmmFh85xhcO4NMvu2VrctgwAzuwNbCD5ev1bdD4XCl4LYcTeD9JCo0qs9h8hmbrDlHTa5jy-qbXMQd-3ACWy1QWccnO5MAzzJiaEIymv0YqAAybToKNsETGo/s1600/wetlandboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlMMCSSVXrwqL47W-qbnNMmmFh85xhcO4NMvu2VrctgwAzuwNbCD5ev1bdD4XCl4LYcTeD9JCo0qs9h8hmbrDlHTa5jy-qbXMQd-3ACWy1QWccnO5MAzzJiaEIymv0YqAAybToKNsETGo/s400/wetlandboard.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The river-crossings, complete with bunker defenses.<br />
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TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-65954302339542184332013-05-21T23:26:00.000-07:002013-05-21T23:26:30.728-07:00Maintenance Halt...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The May meet of the Moscow Front was well attended, but pretty low key. Not much in the way of gaming, but lots of preparation for gaming in the future. </div>
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Much positive comment was made over Mike and Mark's Gettysburg scenario. They admit they have some tweaks to make to perfect it, mostly in terms of board space they said. That may be, but it wqas still a great game.</div>
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The Komissar got to show off "DefCon", a realtime computer sim of global thermonuclear war, and Ken E. got to show off his latest coputer game. I forget the title, but it was about Arnhem. It looked very promising. I smell PBEM in the near future!!</div>
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The focus of the meet was to help Bob with his Elephant/Ferdinands. He's a big fan of German heavies, and this vehicle is perhaps his favorite. A few months ago we got them primed and basecoated, now we had to move on to camoflague patterns and more advanced techniques. Bob doesn't have much experience in miniatures painting, but he makes up for it in enthusiasm and determination. Deciding upon the classic spiderweb pattern in red-brown, we went to town!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYR_vVE80R5r05vM3KWLwQslLe7lM_deIWVn4dlAtNj2xl1ztvOR-_c8wEbl7VWxWrnaR-DCyETWnRP6lTcKQKRi-wJoTFWlyE0cSdpGGHAJEpuPJMXkR5ACkorF0W4VWdHzYPQvP9JqI/s1600/2013-05-18+12.41.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYR_vVE80R5r05vM3KWLwQslLe7lM_deIWVn4dlAtNj2xl1ztvOR-_c8wEbl7VWxWrnaR-DCyETWnRP6lTcKQKRi-wJoTFWlyE0cSdpGGHAJEpuPJMXkR5ACkorF0W4VWdHzYPQvP9JqI/s320/2013-05-18+12.41.14.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Next we explored the wonderful worls of washes, trying both oil/turpentine washes, and simple blacklining. Bob seemed happy with the results, but there is much more work to do.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivLA2dG3hyphenhyphenWLiB_Zyy1y4fidz9d_IULjPMcggakeaWlSnVzbAm6AE4xuOJj6p5aafPDNv8DmWWi1nUA9KZuG5xWek73ntxjqXa3W2ba0qOLT7-Pt7Muz9Os5K6W7kBdbOPM7yobHjfAxo/s1600/2013-05-18+12.40.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivLA2dG3hyphenhyphenWLiB_Zyy1y4fidz9d_IULjPMcggakeaWlSnVzbAm6AE4xuOJj6p5aafPDNv8DmWWi1nUA9KZuG5xWek73ntxjqXa3W2ba0qOLT7-Pt7Muz9Os5K6W7kBdbOPM7yobHjfAxo/s320/2013-05-18+12.40.43.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here soon in the next few weeks we will finish with some drybrushing and finishing the vehicle commanders standing in their hatches. Of course, we will show off the results when Bob is finished!</div>
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For now let's leave y'all with a reminder not to take this hobby too seriously. We don't, we just have fun with it!<br />
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-The Komissar</div>
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TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-46791210911921000392013-05-09T23:26:00.000-07:002013-05-09T23:26:41.446-07:00MainForce VC 2nd Platoon...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Part 2 of my MfVC "Pass in Review", it is May and all, and I offer to the dice gods a second platoon of VC/battle-weary NVA. The figures are a mix of Flashpoint and Peter Pig. Again, I'm just not feeling what BattleFront has to offer. The NVA they've put out earlier is not going to work for me. Don't misunderstand, BattleFront has an excellent and well earned reputation for their figures, and I would highly recommend them for 15mm gaming, but their NVA just plain stinks. Rumor has it there is a new line on the way.</div>
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My personal preference, and yet another big dig on the BF line, is I think communist infantry look better in the bush hat, rather than the big sampam hats, or the plastic helmets. <br />
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I again gleaned my past ACW Confederate experience and painted my VC in various uniforms (black, green, and khaki), as well as some civilian dress. </div>
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Back before BattleFront really developed their Vietnam system, I did some reaserch for another game company, trying to flesh-out MainForce VC organization. What I discovered is that MfVC and NVA are pretty much identical, with the MfVC suffering from shortages in manpower, and weapons in terms of number and in size and sophistication. If a NVA battalion had 6 120mm mortars for support, a MfVC battalion had 4 82mm tubes. If an NVA battalion had 6 .51 cal DshK machineguns, the MfVC would have 4 old .30 cals.</div>
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I tried to reflect this deficiency by basing MfVC teams normally in threes, and in pairs for command and LMG teams. </div>
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Lastly, I have a WIP objective, a VC supply cache in the process of being buried. OR... a VC supplies that were captured by Free World forces and are being readied for disposal. The radio, weapons, food, and ammunition were a Peter Pig pack. The tarp is paper-towel and white glue. I'm still trying to work on the hole so it stands out with more depth. </div>
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Thanks for looking!TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-15612951573434795222013-05-09T03:26:00.000-07:002013-05-09T03:26:13.746-07:00Mainforce VC get ready for action...As Ken W. and I get closer and closer to finishing our armies for a sharp Vietnam War battle, we will offer them up in a pass in review. Up first is a MainForce VC sapper/special tasks platoon, based of for the "Tour of Duty" Flames of War suppliment.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mainforce VC Sapper/Special Tasks platoon</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2OPWkiHcpiBzH57blFDlxSktkpP_vzGXM1hhUoFKrAHI8k0AH13zhhy3Ewmv54gYF4fMiQKVenf4o8j2P9mF-eAzS_1-uJHxN7LM-qy0nfVi1sIliWII0xZxyZgbAf-2zkI1v6K2MQzo/s1600/2013-04-20+11.07.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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The figures are a mixture of Flashpoint Miniatures, and Peter Pig 15mm castings. From the beginning, I was more interested in fielding a MfVC army, and this was assisted by the rather horrid figures released by BattleFront. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMLVKKo7TV-f7zcsEVpgZ6hiTtadAAaXvXcne3sCtb0dLzEe3Is7sjhfkmUlScU3rhn1EOjoxJNc8k6pd_7OGSmt0nFez5pMwNbKOUKTZJ-16yC6uS67ZUmM1MnV-3dXnIEON3Vih2Lc/s1600/sapper1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMLVKKo7TV-f7zcsEVpgZ6hiTtadAAaXvXcne3sCtb0dLzEe3Is7sjhfkmUlScU3rhn1EOjoxJNc8k6pd_7OGSmt0nFez5pMwNbKOUKTZJ-16yC6uS67ZUmM1MnV-3dXnIEON3Vih2Lc/s640/sapper1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The unit is depicted in that act of breaching the barrier wire that was common with Free World forces defenses. The wire itself is aluminum grating, cut out strand by strand. If carefully done, this leaves "barbs" in the wire AND, as it is soft, it bends VERY easy. I would even say it bends "in scale". I mean, it looks like real barbed wire and not something manufactured to look like it. BattleFront's very own Mike Haught showed me how to do the wire effects, and I give him all the credit.</div>
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I'm particularly happy with how the crater turned out. It could be from another breaching team blowing the wire, a mortar strike, or a claymore, but I think it makes for a good effect.</div>
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When doing my bases I prefer to give them a unique color, so I can separate then from other units. Although in this case the wire effects, the full teams, and the specific sapper figures (pole charges and satchel charges) would accomplish this, the gold border makes it easier from a distance.</div>
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One concern when mixing figure ranges and manufacturers is will they fit together? Both Flashpoint and Peter Pig are different, I feel they are close enough.</div>
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When painting I chose to model MfVC units later in the war, where NVA cadres were used more and more as filler to replenish war-weary VC units. I figured there would be a predominance of the latewar green uniform, but with enough khaki bits from older uniforms, as well as a mix of civilian clothes and the iconic black pajamas. I could also use this unit as a bedraggled and out of supply NVA platoon, or even a well organized band of locals. </div>
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I do look forward to pushing this unit on the table. That's all for now!TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-79498981068405751282013-05-09T02:54:00.000-07:002013-05-09T02:54:03.395-07:00CONTACT!! Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, 1863...Our last meeting provided some excitement, as Mark and Mike brought over there extensive 15mm ACW collection, and set up "a minor scrap" in the fields and ridges north of Gettysburg town.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ken W. and Mike put the finishing touches on the battlefield...</td></tr>
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The idea was to help playtest a 1 July scenario for an upcoming wargame convention using a modified version of "Fire ans Fury". Being as many in the group have a fondness for ACW gaming, we could hardly say no.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An arial view of "PZ Longstreet"</td></tr>
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So, after a bit of show and tell with the status of our Vietnam collections (hence all the "Hueys") After a few hours it became obvious that the Rebels were in for a tough fight, perhaps a bit tougher than what occured historically. Lots of solid criticism (of the constructive kind) was offered with particular attention given to terrain and unit entry issues.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Federal cavalry takes shelter in a farmhouse...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gen. Heth's vanguard regiment presses the "bluebellies" away from the farm.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Federal 1st Corps tops Seminary Ridge to re-enforce Buford's cavalry.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Federal commanders plot their next move...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The battlefield, using the old school "geo-hex" terrain.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Confederate commander Ken E.(hat) discusses his options with Mike (r) and Mark (l).</td></tr>
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Great fun was had by all, and we look forward to more of the same from Mike and Mark. Although, I think everyone would agree that it may be better if they got to play a bit, rather than manage the game. Playtesting is difficult, but rewarding work and Mike/Mark do it well, and we're grateful for it.<br />
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TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-59361012326625117092013-02-25T10:53:00.001-08:002013-02-25T10:53:50.731-08:00CONTACT!! Moscow Winter Offensive...Ok, here's the deal...<br />
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The organizers planned for a 7-table tournament. We hoped that a dozen players would show. We hoped to be able to hand out prizes for best army, best general, etc. Didn't happen.<br />
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Four people came, only three could play, only two did play, and no one brought any money for an entry fee, thus no prize support. <br />
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Now here is the decisive monent. Do we say "screw it" and go home in a huff? Do we just march forward with what we have and make the most of it, using this experience to build a new player base? Well, that's what the 'Front did. We marshalled up what we had, and made a great day of it!<br />
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Ken brought the lion's share of the terrain and loaner armies for new players to use, and that's what happened. First off, Ken and some of the newcomers squared off in a German "blue on blue" battle, in and amongst the ruins os some non-descript NW European 'burg.<br />
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The youngsters were equipped with grenadiers, panzers (Mk IV's and Lynxs), as well as an armored train. They faced grenadiers, 12cm mortars, Sturmtigers, and me262 air support.<br />
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Here we see panzers trying to force their way into the villiage under the cover of the armored train. It would seem that the train has problems of its own to deal with.<br />
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The fighting gets close and intense, as our newest members learn the hard way that tanks are best left out of street fighting. Let the grenadiers do that job!<br />
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On a table further down Bob and Dale sat down to a "blue on purple" fight with Yankee tanks squaring off against Soviet armor in the desert! Here we see Bob positioning his armor to meet the commie hoards!<br />
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Quickly the AP rounds went flying and casualties mounted quickly. Here we see the Yanks giving the Soviets as good as they are getting on that flank, as Soviet tanks maneuver for flank shots against the US "jumbo" tanks. It pretty much rendered the Soviet 85mm gun ineffective in the front.</div>
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On the opposite flank, Soviet assault guns are making life for US tankers very uncomfortable. After several turns of airstrikes and exchanging AP rounds, the Yanks begin to buckle under the pressure.</div>
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With the first two games over, we decided on pairing up the remainder for a mega-game... 3000 points per side on double table. Here we see "Strategy and Games" proprietor Joe maneuver his US armored artillery into prospective firing positions near the church.</div>
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This was about the end of the "happy time" for the Allies, as the tank bottleneck in the center came under massed Nebelwerfer and Sturmtiger fire, knocking out the Soviet company commander's tank. With half the Allied armor immoble, the German fire turned its attention to the US armor on the right. Heavy casualties there made it very appearant that the Allies were not going to win this fight. </div>
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It was all over but the bragging, and with a good AAR both sides learned how to better conduct their next match. </div>
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A shout out to all who made it to play, display an army, or just to visit. Special shout out to "Strategy and Games" for hosting the "non-tournament". Double special shout out to Joe, who suffering an absolutely awful head cold, stuck it out and kept the shop open despite his looking and feeling like "death on a stick". Hoah Joe!</div>
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Till next time!</div>
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the Komissar</div>
TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-36905758497143533072013-02-16T15:47:00.001-08:002013-02-16T15:47:48.474-08:00CONTACT!!: Beach landing training grounds, southern England...With the CO pressed into a work gang on a roofing project for the local "Party Boss", (read his Dad), the Komissar had to direct things today. We had a decent turn out at the meeting today. Met some new people and spread the word of the Winter Offensive next weekend. Talked a bit about the new direction Battlefront is going with their minis, specifically the new plastic offerings. We also took a look at some WWIII board games, such as "Team Yankee", "Assault", and "NATO".<br />
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More significant, was Bob dropping some big cash for the version 3 rules and 6 (yes sports fans) SIX German Elefant tank destroyers. <br />
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Front armor 15, side 8, top armor 2, anti-tank 16, ROF 2, firepower 3+ is pretty intimidating, but present a challenge being overloaded and unreliable. If used well, they will be a tough nut to crack in any mid or late-war Flames of War list.<br />
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Lastly, we sat down to a new game of "D-Day Dice". It's VERRRRY "beer and pretzels", perhaps even more a "gateway" game to wargaming, but it was a fun change of pace and team oriented rather than adversarial... a little different in a wargame.<br />
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Players roll the dice to collect re enforcements, courage, command points, and tools to advance onto the objective at the end. Roll a red/white/blue combination and recieve extra bonuses. Players slowly make their way forard, negotiating obstacles, machine-gun fire, mines, etc, purchasing leaders, weapons, and other assistance along the way. The game ends when all the players reach the objective. Ken and Bob took it easy on me, and we played the very easy training scenario. Assaulting legitimate enemy beaches will be much more difficult.<br />
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So at the next meeting we are going to help Bob get his Elefants up to muster, and bust those suckers loose on a table! It'll be as epic as 200mm of frontal armor!TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-34912764185346509492013-02-13T18:39:00.001-08:002013-02-14T11:20:15.348-08:00Intelligence Report, FoW list breakdown...Greetings Komerades, with the Winter Offensive just a week and a-half away, I wanted to take an opportunity to go over Army List construction for Flames of War. The format for Saturday the 23rd is 1500 points, Late War, to include the "Market-Garden" books and the "To the Meuse" pdf's. <br />
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Points, yes, we said 1500 points for a late war list. Now that is generous for Early War lists, and very do-able for Mid War lists, but this will cramp the style of frequent LW players. One is forced to make hard decisions, and to focus on threats that an army is most likely to face. That was very much the case for my Soviets, having to make adjustments and compromises that I usually do not have to make. Luckily, the Soviets have a bit more flexibility than they are often credited with. Let me illustrate.<br />
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My first idea was to field a Red Army Light SP Artillery regiment. In essence your combat platoons are a pair of either SU76's, or SU122 batteries (NOT to be confused with the ISU122). From that point the support options are typical, but with two surprises. One, the recon forces are mandatory SMG squads, with an optional BA64 armored car. No spetsnaz, no armored car platoon, no decoy tanks. Hmmm, a bit of a downgrade but still workable. The second surprise was that there were no tank-killer batteries of SU 85's, lend-lease M-10's, or SU 100's. Now THAT, coupled with all companies being "confident-trained" instead of "fearless, was a deal breaker. Going with a Guards SPA Regiment instead of Red Army didn't really change much, as the points costs and motivation levels were unchanged. Remember, this is a 1500 point list, and this list is just not flexible enough.<br />
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My next choice was a personal favorite, the Forward Detachment. This battalion represents the vanguard of an advancing mobile unit, firmly rooted in its recon mission, but very hard hitting to clear the way for the main-body. The mandatory companies are tankovy and strelkovy, but the support choices are deep, and nearly everything is "fearless-trained". Here's how it all came together...<br />
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<a href="http://www.ww2incolor.com/d/689496-1/500x339xA+lend-lease+Jeep+supplied+to+Soviets_+mounting+a.pagespeed.ic.0uLdnvgbL3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="http://www.ww2incolor.com/d/689496-1/500x339xA+lend-lease+Jeep+supplied+to+Soviets_+mounting+a.pagespeed.ic.0uLdnvgbL3.jpg" uea="true" width="200" /></a>Headquarters: 30 points, I kept this simple and took only the Battalion commander and the deputy commander in lend-lease willy's jeeps. I declined the commissar as I really didn't have the points to spend, and their use with a fearless strelkovy platoon is a redundancy I couldn't afford.</div>
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<a href="http://www.2worldwar2.com/images/t-34-tank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://www.2worldwar2.com/images/t-34-tank.jpg" uea="true" width="400" /></a>Red Army Tankovy: 390 points, I'm going with 8 T-34/42 tanks. Smaller gun, but they are a fast tank, and equipped with wide tracks. I need these fellows to strike deep and take flanking shots. This sounds risky, but going head-on against German cats with an 85mm gun is risky also (AT 12 vs FA 10 for a Panther). As a player, I do know that the tournament will at least have one snow table, with no telling what the ground is going to be like. Considering that the T-34/85 loses its movement bonuses, I may need the un-bog benefits. I also wanted some numbers here. What defeats the US Tank destroyer hotness? Numbers of cheaper tanks that will still be effective, but their loss will not have a great impact. In essence, I need to use the T-34's to put deep pressure on the enemy, and to keep the TD's attention away from my SU's.</div>
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Tank Riders: 135 points, I gotta get cheap here and am taking only a 7-team tank-rider company. Now can you see why the Komissar was a little unnecessary? Granted, 10 points for an extra stand is attractive, with a 1500 pt list I need every point in other areas. This 7-team unit is a risk, especially without support weapons such as flamethrowers, AT rifles, or heavy MG's, but I see their role as a flank guard or to hold an objective for a turn or two. What will help, and in a move that I so think is superior if done well, is equipping my "strelk" with PPsh submachine guns instead of making them rifle/MG teams. Either in the attack or the defense, the added rate of fire even when moving can make a painful difference in an infantry melee.<br />
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Light SP Artillery: 170 points will provide the people 4 SU122's. A very cheap armored platoon, but it carries a breakthrough gun, and a 10 AT rating. This will clear out infantry nests, and provide a secondary AT capability. Now it is armored for mid-war guns, FA 5, so I can't "flat-hat" these boys around without a care in the world. Some caution is needed.<br />
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<a href="http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20121006233048/world-war-2/images/7/74/SU_100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20121006233048/world-war-2/images/7/74/SU_100.jpg" uea="true" width="400" /></a><a href="http://www.o5m6.de/SU-85%20UralMash%20Right_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Tank Killer Company: 430 points, I took a risk and chose to field 5 SU100 assault guns. The AT rating is awesome at 16, the armor is good with an FA of 9, but a rate of fire of 1. That early 100mm AT round is heavy, relying more on mass than velocity to burst through armor plate. This will kill Panthers frontally, and could assist in anti-infantry missions with a firepower of 2+, the same as the SU 122. Again, the drawbacks... it is heavy, overloaded, and slow so rushing them across the field is not an option. Properly using them will take some planning and foresight.</div>
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<a href="http://military-vehicle-photos.com.s3.amazonaws.com/8089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://military-vehicle-photos.com.s3.amazonaws.com/8089.jpg" uea="true" width="320" /></a>Wheeled Recon Company: 80 points, 3 BA64 armored cars will spring ambushes and help locate hidden targets. They have jeep mobility, and AAA machine-guns, never a bad thing. I just have to remember that the only come into play if they themselves are attacked by enemy air, they can't just spray the air and hope to get lucky. Hmm, I still can't get over just how tiny these things were. In my mind I compared them to a German Kfz 222 or something, but it just comes off as a jeep with steel plates welded onto it.</div>
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Priority Air Support: 270 points, I gotta have my Sturmoviks!! The reduced point total basically takes away my standard 120mm mortars, but I still need indirect support independent of Line-of Sight. Sturmoviks are expensive, but very durable and yield results more often than not. Many players question the wisdom of taking air, much less expensive air assets to a battle. I find value in the points I spend. First, I see indirect fires as "mistake insurance". If I really mess something up, mortars and air can help mitigate that goof. Second, having the threat of air attack forces the opponent to think and move much differently, slowing them down, and making them devote more thought and time to "safe" movement, than effective tactical movement and firing solutions.</div>
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One of the basic concepts I try to observe when I design a list is to try to create a list with synergy and redundancy. Look for things that can work with others, look for things that can compliment, AND compensate for strengths and weaknesses. My T34s have limited AT capability, but are knarly against infantry. This anti infantry role is complimented and duplicated by my infantry, the SU122's, the Sturmoviks, and the SU100's. The SU100's are the primary tank killers, but they are backed up by the SU122's, the T34's, and the Sturmoviks. I also have three transport options for my infantry if needs be. The idea is that if you lose one part of the whole, the "whole" doesn't break down and become impotent. Other units can step up, even into missions that aren't their primary role.<br />
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So there you have it. I'm a tad over weighing in at 1505 points, but I look forward to seeing how things go on the battlefield. Keen eyes will immediately see that I have 5 platoons, and in terms of reserves and such this can be a hamstring for me. Even so, with over half of my platoons in reserve, I can field over 1000 of my 1500 points on turn 1. It is a risk... but isn't it the risk that makes it fun and exciting?</div>
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the Komissar</div>
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TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-24998139304397013642013-01-31T14:44:00.000-08:002013-01-31T14:44:29.673-08:00Book Review: "Panther, Germany's Quest for Combat Dominance"...A disclaimer at the beginning, I am a tanker. I served four years with 1st Cavalry Division as an Abrams tank crewman, so I think I have the background to be objective. I've seen and touched panther tanks, read about them, studied photos, watched documentaries, and gamed panthers for my entire adult life. I have a deep professional and technical fondness for the panther.<br />
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Having said that, I learned so much technically about the panther tank, I have almost a completely new understanding of the vehicle. Mike Green has put so much research and detail into "Panther", that it is difficult to find new question to ask. He discusses every assembly and system, its strengths and flaws, and how they contribute to the overall combat effectiveness of the panther. He draws on crew anecdotes, enemy reactions, enemy technical evaluations of captured panthers, and his own experience with the Military Vehicle Technology Foundation, and intimate work in the restoration of the "Littlefield Panther" to draw these often shocking insights. Green pulls the curtain back, exposing the panther as the war winner it almost was, and in detail illustrates what went wrong, and what was coming had the European war not ended in May 1945.<br />
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The book is marvelously researched, and one cannot discount the value of Green's hands-on experience in restoring the Littlefield Panther. He has probably established himself as one of the world's foremost authorities on the Mk V panther. However, in doing so, unless the reader is a true tank or panther fanatic, "Panther" can get a little dry. What kept me involved was the constant mental comparison of each system with that of the Abrams tank. That gave me an appreciation of what Green was addressing, and a benchmark from which to draw my own conclusions.<br />
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Ok, what did I learn that I didn't understand before? Now I have a better grasp of the genius and limitations of the panther's armor package. The drive train failures (of which panther is legendary) were widespread among many systems and not a consistent failure of one component. The main gun system was dramatically superior to any of the Allies, and was designed to consistenly achieve the all-important first round kill. I feel I have a greater understanding of what it meant to crew and maintain this weapon. I feel I have a more solid concept of just how desperate the need was for a new tank, on a new battlefield against a new enemy (the Soviets), and the (often agonizing) compromises necessary to design and field a radically new tank. Panther, when compared to contemporary and modern tanks, was decidedly modern. It begs the question, was it that far ahead of its time, or are modern tanks influenced by panther that much?<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flamesofwar.com/Portals/0/all_images/Historical/Eastern-Front/Narva-Soviet-Dest-Panther.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="229" src="http://www.flamesofwar.com/Portals/0/all_images/Historical/Eastern-Front/Narva-Soviet-Dest-Panther.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fate of most panthers, destroyed in action...</td></tr>
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The book does discuss variants, the bergepanther, the jagdpanther, but perhaps the "tastiest" details were the discussion of the panther F, and the panther II. As flawed as Green paints the panther, it was a feared and effective tank killer. The next design upgrades would have undoubtedly added to its legend. Increases in turret and hull armor, redesigned gun, co-incidental rangefinders, night-fighting gear, and a redesigned suspension were just some of the changes in store.<br />
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I can't recommend this book enough to anyone who has a deep interest in the panther, German armor, or tanks in general. Every square inch of the panther is photographed, every system explained, every wart and blemish highlighted, every technical triumph praised. You won't be disappointed.TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-27333944828867162212013-01-22T13:20:00.001-08:002013-01-22T13:35:14.609-08:00OFFICER'S CALL!! Winter Offensive 2013...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.generalpatton.org/Patton_Saber/images/Winter05_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" oea="true" src="http://www.generalpatton.org/Patton_Saber/images/Winter05_3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The MOSCOW WINTER OFFENSIVE 2013 is on for 23 February, 2013!!<br />
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This is a Flames of War tournament, 1500 pts, OPEN Late war, to include the newly released Market-Garden books.<br />
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Entry fee is $10 for prize support.<br />
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We also want to announce the "MEDIC!!!" card. For a $5 donation to the Wounded Warrior Project, a player may posess an opportunity to re-constitute a decimated platoon, <u>one time only</u>, during the event.<br />
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This event is purposely scaled back to attract new players, and to bring older veteran players back into the game, and get acquainted with version 3 rules. The FRONT will provide a few "loaner" armies on a first come-first served basis.<br />
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AP rounds will fly at "Strategy and Games", 6th st, Moscow, Idaho, at 10am. "S&G" is right off the U of I campus, just across the street from the Ale House. <br />
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All questions should be Emailed to <a href="mailto:moscowfront@yahoo.com">moscowfront@yahoo.com</a><br />
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See you all there!!<br />
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-the KomissarTIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-76745896021522127162013-01-15T18:23:00.001-08:002013-01-15T18:23:29.472-08:00Yeah fellas... they're 15mm!!It is truly amazing what this man does in 15mm figures. I love coming here for inspiration and ideas. The link is on the right, click on "Ritterkriegs Corner".<br />
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-The KomissarTIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-10889910601776137302013-01-14T18:28:00.005-08:002013-01-14T18:28:41.135-08:00Officer's Call!!It is meeting time again, Saturday the 19th, 10 am at Strategy and Games hobby shop. We will discuss old business, form future plans, and then end with a bit of gaming. Dale and Ken have 1500 points of mid-war Flames of War to pitch at each other. Dale will also bring his old counter-and-chit game "Team Yankee".<br />
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If you have a game you want to play or show, by all means bring it along! If you have 15mm WW2 minis to fight, bring them as well.<br />
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Here's just a taste...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgch7cAdCky2Qm1wyVSZBGIYKAAnnx-LiSEcbpZsWuIE3h2t5alP7oSWKVdiOS5W_5Rhs-iwOYRpZCPE1Ey0Ttg33wLUsPGslFk2cMiVi-BJOLeli2prjfT8hHhmLN7vgnTsJ9QcxuEOuM/s1600/kv-25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgch7cAdCky2Qm1wyVSZBGIYKAAnnx-LiSEcbpZsWuIE3h2t5alP7oSWKVdiOS5W_5Rhs-iwOYRpZCPE1Ey0Ttg33wLUsPGslFk2cMiVi-BJOLeli2prjfT8hHhmLN7vgnTsJ9QcxuEOuM/s400/kv-25.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Big enough for you?<br />
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Or maybe this?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXOQZW9UmdaKbTIsN61jqWoK9l2RXF4KmGROEJmrbv1FOax3ag6vBgs4rlN29p3ab0xJMtFJXnnPM890oLj5OGRUAR0JxObmpmaXOG_2IXWSTKFO_TQrXQ8VS2EwxFith9ydBKb-kJyYc/s1600/Russian_soldiers_army_T-72BR_main_battle_tank_23082008_news_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXOQZW9UmdaKbTIsN61jqWoK9l2RXF4KmGROEJmrbv1FOax3ag6vBgs4rlN29p3ab0xJMtFJXnnPM890oLj5OGRUAR0JxObmpmaXOG_2IXWSTKFO_TQrXQ8VS2EwxFith9ydBKb-kJyYc/s400/Russian_soldiers_army_T-72BR_main_battle_tank_23082008_news_001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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Or perhaps this?? (Im talking to you Ken...)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5VwJCdxo5xsJXBlSDkKnMNN0CGdj7GXkhsafeTLgM75Wm44csf5nFUZ06pq8y1zz0eUvOQ1tGtvGIfbggR4NqfBOfmBY1y0TAAi9eavprn88M7-uKT5tj5goZrK4KLCQQFLnf6j_TGg/s1600/durchschuss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5VwJCdxo5xsJXBlSDkKnMNN0CGdj7GXkhsafeTLgM75Wm44csf5nFUZ06pq8y1zz0eUvOQ1tGtvGIfbggR4NqfBOfmBY1y0TAAi9eavprn88M7-uKT5tj5goZrK4KLCQQFLnf6j_TGg/s400/durchschuss.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Be there this Saturday and find out!<br />
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The Komissar.TIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6793390915246247446.post-1458247095897914992012-12-31T10:33:00.000-08:002012-12-31T10:33:45.143-08:00A Guilty Little Pleasure...Alright fellows, I have a confession to make. I've been neck-deep in a new Japanese anime cartoon, complete with the subtitles, the mousy screeching of over-excited Asian adolescent girls in school uniform, the whole thing. Yet there is a twist, the tanks. I've been on the edge of my seat watching installments of "Girls und Panzer" for about a month now and am loving 99% of it. <br />
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For those to whom this in new, G&P is a story of a Japanese secondary school "tankery" team in international competition. Yes, you read right, "tankery", the time honored tradition and art of using tanks to close with and destroy the enemy. Hokey and implausable, perhaps, but what makes it so cool is the hyper-accuracy of how the tanks are depicted, referenced, and used. Whomever the technical and historical adviser is for the show, they deserve a raise. <br />
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I've watched 10 episodes, and I've seen accurate (inside and out) renditions of the PanzerIVd, 38t, StuGIIIf, Char 1b, type 89, Grant, Sherman, Matilda, Churchill, T-34/43, T-34/85, KV2, JS2, Panzer IIIm, Tiger, Panther, Porsche Tiger, JagdPanther, JagdTiger, JagdPz IV/70, Type 3 Chu-ni, and a Kingtiger. It is pure tank-nerd eyecandy as they seem to go all-out making sure they look right.<br />
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The story is not a bad one either, lots of coming of age sort of arcs but the main story does have me hooked. Miho Nishizumi had left her family's school, and tankery team after choosing to save her teamates from drowning instead of finishing the match. Shunned by her family, she works to rebuild her self confidence as well as the respect of others, including her estranged sister and mother. <br />
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I did say 99% loving it, as honestly, the high-octave squealing does grate of the nerves, but if that is the price to pay for the next tank engagement, so be it.<br />
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You can watch episodes 1 - 10 for free here at <a href="http://www.crunchyroll.com/girls-und-panzer">http://www.crunchyroll.com/girls-und-panzer</a> . They are in Japanese, subtitled in English, with a few unavaoidable commercials. I do look forward to the English over-dub DVD version due... whenever, but it will be on my shelf at some point.<br />
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-the KomissarTIGERtankerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07596975610158637098noreply@blogger.com0