Turn 16 results- Let me just preface this by stating this was one of the more intense turns I’ve witnessed. It was somewhat akin to the 4th of July. I think I might use the word epic. I mean, if I had turned up my speakers my neighbors might have ducked for cover!
First, to the events: The Trent Affair, where Confederate commissioners Mason and Sliddell were removed forcibly from a British ship has led to a morale boost for the south (+1 morale). Manstein has received an army HQ, and the elite Western Brigade in Michigan.
Next, to the West. Major Frederick of the Third US Cavalry Division observed his men uneasily as they flipped over the heavy steel rail lines along a long bend stretching for perhaps ¼ mile. All along he repeated the mantra: “the fight starts now boys!” The operations against the tribes had been a necessary evil, but an evil nonetheless. Now he and his men had a chance to redeem themselves against the true enemy.
The first wisps of snow had begun to fall in Tennessee and there were reports of rebel patrols in the area. Not surprising as they were deep inside Confederate territory at a key rail junction.
For five days they had performed this task; something the Third had done since the days of the Mexican War. In some day far in the future we might call them special op soldiers. Back then they were just tough as nails SOBs. Two Confederate engines had paid the price and now the rebels were moving in for vengeance. The last day of the spiking and Frederick was about to slip away, but alas.
Just then shots rang out in the distance. Frederick’s flank guards had engaged. As the smoke cleared 61 Confederate raiders lay dead while 31 troopers fell.
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They retreated, their deed done, but escaping alive was another question. This was the preface of a running battle that would take place all across the map as the intensity level not only has been bumped up a notch, but perhaps two or three notches. Frederick’s men fell back towards the river, as more and more rebels joined the chase. A day later they made a stand at the river bank:
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A draw, but a victory in that they would live to fight another day. And fight another day they did. Inconclusive engagements took place on day nine, day 11, and day 12 as the rebels pushed their advantage.
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Low on ammo, they attempted to retreat, but could not as the evacuation was still taking place. Finally on day 15 they got the last man out, minus 200, and arrived at an undefended Savannah Tennessee. Spent, they took refuge inside the unwelcoming town, rebels still in pursuit. They were bolstered by 24 supply carts and crates of badly needed ammo.
The fight “had started now.”
A major series of battles has taken place at New Orleans.
M Bonham’s command successfully merged with Theophilus Holmes’command on day six. Battle was not joined till day seven-a costly delay for Hooker.
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Only now, too late, did they realize the true horror of their blunder. They were trapped on the beaches like the Persians at the Battle Of Marathon, and were punished mercifully.
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