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Manstein (USA) vs Johnnycai (CSA) 1861

Wed Aug 18, 2010 9:00 am

[SIZE="6"]2009-10 AACW PBEM Tournament Finals[/size]
[SIZE="5"]Manstein: USA
Johnnycai: CSA[/size]

Welcome to the Finals! Sorry for the delay on this. We've all been busy with real life issues. I’m going to be doing something a little bit different this round in addition to the normal play by play. I’ll be recording each turn as screenshots from a pdf and also attach a master pdf on this first post (assuming it doesn’t get too large in which case I’ll add another) so you can download it yourself for faster viewing. Each turn is going to be replayed for you in two separate halves past about turn five as a planning phase and a results phase. I think there’s more of an ability to track the strategy of the players this way and also a little more drama. Also, there will be a statistics update at the end of the results phase fairly often so we can track the overall health of the combatants. Lastly I’ve randomly chosen two elements that we’ll be tracking throughout the war. Will they survive? What will be their fate? Just a little sideshow to follow.

Again, this will be played through to Late Oct of 1863 so 60 turns I believe. I'll be doing them as three separate threads labeled "1861" "1862" and "1863" due to the length of this one. I will be posting turns 1-4 first (smaller turns) when I get on tomorrow.

I'm doing one half (Manstein as USA) while Jim-NC will be doing John as USA. We'll be trying to track overall point differential as best we can, but I'm not sure how he's organizing his half.

Enjoy this one! It should be an exciting long-term drama to follow!

EDIT: I decided to start adding text and imagery here instead of pdf screen shots. I'll still be updating the pdf here though and eventually will add an table of contents so you can quickly get to the most recent news when you download it instead of scrolling through a slow loading thread, which always seemed too tedious to me.

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"We shall give them the bayonet." -Stonewall at Fredericksburg.

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Wed Aug 18, 2010 10:43 pm

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Wed Aug 18, 2010 10:46 pm

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Wed Aug 18, 2010 10:48 pm

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Wed Aug 18, 2010 10:49 pm

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Wed Aug 18, 2010 10:50 pm

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Mon Aug 30, 2010 9:51 pm

Turn 5 (early June, 1861) – In the Far West CSA forces are able to successfully evacuate Jefferson City ahead of the arrival of Lyon. Sterling Sharpe arrives in Springfield, MO and sets up shop. Manstein’s 3rd Cav has awakened and is destroying Ft Gibson in the Indian Territories. There appears to be a substantive buildup of both Union troops at Tuscon under Edwin Sumner and CSA troops under Sibley at Dallas.

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Southwest

In the West, Federal forces have been forced out of W Kentucky as the garrison at Paducah surrendered, giving Johnnycai a 1 point morale and VP boost. However, the “Kentucky invaded by CSA troops!” event has fired, releasing that state’s militia loyal to the Union.

Polk’s raid further North has not gone unnoticed as Manstein dispatches some six independent militia and artillery elements to Salem IL and Foote’s gunboats head South along the Miss and Ohio rivers. Following on Polk’s right flank is the 1st Tennessee Cavalry Regiment under D. Ruggles- presumably to tame the countryside in the event Polk must make a hasty retreat.

The first substantive engagement of the war takes place at Salem, IL.

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After initial success on day 8 destroying a militia element and rounding up a few prisoners, Polk retreats on day 9 due to a lack of cohesion, and in the face of superior numbers still arriving in and outside Salem. Behind him an undefended Cairo falls to the Union and its garrison is released. The Union gunboats along the Ohio leave his tired troops in a somewhat precarious position.

[ATTACH]12328[/ATTACH]
CSA invasion of Illinois.

In the East, Johnnycai’s forces raiding Grafton successfully evaded the US defenders and came away with the consolation prize of destroying the rails in the region. Farruget and Foote were promoted to admirals by Manstein. In an odd bug a US balloon unit showed up at Norfolk, VA. spreading widespread fear of alien invasion among the Southern country folk who have never seen such an odd object. John has agreed to fly the derelict dirigible back to Manstein if he captures it.

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Aliens in VA!

1st SC Brigade remains stationary under Zollicoffer at Fredericksbrug, but the stack has been reinforced by the 1st Reserve Brigade and I East Supplies. Manstein’s 3rd Cav is now active and is in the process of destroying Fort Gibson!
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Mon Aug 30, 2010 10:21 pm

Turn 6 Planning Stage (late June)- Some drama building in the West. Johnnyai is trying to extract Polk from Illinois, but he has to get past Andrew Foote’s gunboats first. Foote has 18 assorted gunboats and transports which can effectively block three water regions, so slipping by them will be problematic. Polk’s command is too exhausted to seize any cities and wading through hostile territory, which saps cohesion and slows movement. Luckily for Johnnycai their wagon train will supply them for six turns (3 months) and has ammo for an equal number of battles.

Stationary and in defensive posture, the “independent” US elements at Salem have been placed under the leadership of General W. Nelson (doubles as a country singer). In all, some 10,000 US troops have gathered at Salem. They’re mostly militia and cav and fight at a significant disadvantage under a 1 star general, but the CSA line troops they have their eye on are exhausted.

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Johnnycai has chosen to march Polk South towards the docks at Metropolis in region Kinsale. He is also dispatching all available gunboats (three stacks) to the Ohio/Miss confluent. Additionally, Polk has been given orders to tear up the rails.

Notably, unlike John, Manstein’s consolidated all his boats into a single stack. Foote’s command, which had been further up the Ohio is heading South towards water region “Cape Girardeau” off Cairo. It appears there shall be a naval engagement.

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As an aside bit of commentary, although John’s position is tenuous he has succeeded in keeping Manstein from going all out offensive in the West and Far West, which was likely his goal. If he can escape this trap the endeavor could be billed a success. However, if Polk is destroyed it will be a major setback, especially considering John went with “Partial Mobilization” leaving him riding the line on manpower and making these troops irreplaceable. It was a high-risk maneuver with medium-risk rewards, but sometimes gambling wins the game. We shall see.

In the Far West and Southwest things remain stationary, Lyon’s 2800 troops falling back to Rolla and Sharpe digging in at Springfield as all regional resources are focused on Illinois at the moment.

In the East the main armies have been released from their locked positions. Manstein has elected to remain stationary as his forces continue to coalesce, but aggressive as ever, John is going on the offensive.

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“Quartermaster General” Joe Johnston is advancing on Harper’s Ferry and Hooker’s 5,000 man garrison with orders to continue on to positions overlooking the main Federal buildup at Alexandria if he finds success. John is perhaps unaware of the size of Hooker’s army.

Beauregard assumes command of the newly christened “Army of the Potomac” near Manassas with orders to dig in and remain on the defensive. It currently numbers 24,000 men, 4,500 horses, and 100+ guns. Facing it is the 15,000-strong and growing “NE Virginia” army under McDowell.

The bulk of the Federal troops are at DC (40,000+ troops) under the overall command of Winfield Scott, but in independent commands still to be organized.

Further South along the James CSA ships have released and are heading out into the Atlantic shipping lanes. A large US fleet, including the Monitor, is dispatching to the water region off Richmond. They aim to blockade the rebel capital.
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"We shall give them the bayonet." -Stonewall at Fredericksburg.

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Thu Sep 09, 2010 4:19 am

Turn 6 Results – Manstein prints paper money, calls for volunteers and decided on total blockade inciting the British to a wait and see attitude (-12 to intervention). John calls for volunteers. The “Lincoln Calls for Volunteers” event angers the Southern states still on the fence and they fully commit to the CSA. +20 CSA loyalty in VA and +5 in the other regions.

In the Far West Sterling Price has destroyed the Springfield Depot and a separate Confederate detachment destroyed the Fayetteville Depot perhaps anticipating a Lyon attack. Unnecessary as he fell back to Rolla. Both sides sit stationary in the Southwest, with reinforcements still en route.

In the West Manstein has no less than 19 assorted elements at Salem responding to the Illinois incursion. Two naval engagements took place off Cairo.

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Although some of the Confederate ships merged prior to Foote’s arrival, they essentially fled without much of a fight against the larger Union fleet. Foote is now in command of Cape Girardeau with the two Confederate fleets on either side, divided.

Runners have brought the bad news to Polk’s struggling column, which only managed to move 1 region South and still has eight days to go before arrival at the Metropolis docks. At that rate Manstein’s cav can easily beat him to the point. It’s questionable whether a few hundred green cavalry troopers would hold the line against 5,000 hardened , albeit exhausted, Confederates, however.

Further East, McClellan has been released at Cincinnati. He has some 22 elements amalgamating with three 1-stars en route to round out the fledgling army. The Confederates have 10 elements at Memphis under junior leader Bushrod Johnson at the moment. The army core is Polk’s Tennesseans stuck up in Illinois. They’re understandably concerned.

In the East, a major engagement took place at Harper’s Ferry.

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The Confederate 24-gun battery distinguished itself well, but after the brief yet intense initial line engagements it became clear to Johnston that Hooker’s size and disposition was insurmountable and he fell back.

On the James, Ft Monroe has bombarded the James River gunboat squadron landing 12 hits and sinking the vessels. Two Confederate frigates did slip by successfully, however, and the CSA Virginia is now active at Norfolk. Manstein attempted to sail the balloon out but was blocked by the passing CSA ships. Coming the other way, Dalghren’s Fleet was hammered by Confederate batteries based at Norfolk taking 50 hits. Sailing separately, the Monitor took 24 hits and was left with just a sliver of health and most of the other ships were dinged up as well. The battered fleet is now blockading Richmond.

Northern Papers are demanding an immediate offensive. Threaten Richmond or lose 10 morale points.

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Gen Sharpe!!?

Thu Sep 09, 2010 7:11 pm

Isn't Sterling Sharpe an NFL veteran and a black man? Alas if the formidible Sharpe brothers are fighting for the CSA?!! :w00t:

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Sat Sep 11, 2010 10:23 pm

Turn 7 Planning Stage (early July) –Both sides seem to be concentrating on artillery replacements at the moment - Manstein NY and DE 12 and 6 pounders, John all over the board.

In the West it appears that Polk may very well escape his trap ala G Washington at Long Island. Manstein has opted to maintain Foote’s stack’s position perhaps in fear of the surrounding CSA fleets and march the Salem division, now under Lewis Wallace straight to Cairo in defensive posture. John appears to have no intention of doing anything but high tailing it though. He has Polk continuing on his path to the Metropolis docks and then embarking down the Ohio towards the friendly guns of Forts Henry and Donelson. Both his fleets are vacating the area. In that even two gunboats can force an embarked element to abort, this could be a miscalculation with repercussions on Manstein’s part.

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Further up the river Ruggle’s Tennessee horseman are wreaking havoc, tearing up rails. They have their sights on New Albany – an important staging point for Federal forces prepping to enter KY at Louisville, which is across the river. Notably they’re out of supplies.

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In the Southwest the 3rd US Cav Reg continues to decimate innocent native Americans caught betwixt. Tens of thousands of refugees are flooding out into the open plains. The forces in Tuscon and Dallas remain stationary as more Federal forces build-up from the West Coast.

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In the Far West, Lyon and Price hold their positions at Rolla and Springfield, respectfully.

In the East Joe Johnston is being re-assigned to Nashville. Stonewall Jackson assumes command of the stack at Winchester. John is blowing the Strasburg Depot. Bonham is assuming command at Fredericksburg, which has an additional 5,000 troops en route from the South. On Manstein’s side, Hooker’s 7,000 troops are falling back to DC, McDowell remains stationary. It appears he may be prepping for a major all out assault. One note: his HQ element is only at 25% strength. Were he to lose that it would be a major blow. It must give him pause before launching any offensive.

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Further South the Merrimac has been rechristened the Virginia and is sailing out into the James Estuary. “That beast is coming down!” exclaimed Butler’s scouts at Fort Monroe. Nearly as powerful under the command of Buchanon and solo as the badly damaged combined US fleet of 16 ships off Richmond (104-116), a naval engagement could be brewing.
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Sat Sep 18, 2010 7:26 am

Turn 7 Results –Leonidas Polk has escaped with his men and supplies to spare. It can only be termed a successful gamble, taking some prisoners, destroying a depot, delaying a Federal assault, granting some experience to the Tennesseans who will surely become the core of the rebel army accumulating at Nashville, and as a parting gift destroying the supply stockpiles at Metropolis. My assumption is Manstein did not want to divide his naval stack for fear of defeat. This will need further input from him to clarify.

In KY John is making efficient use of his scouting network. The main armies continue building at Cincinnati and Nashville.

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Besides the “Great Escape” this has been a mostly quiet turn with both sides prepping for a showdown. In the East, John has destroyed Strasburg Depot with Manstein also pulling Hooker back from the region. It appears both sides are abandoning the Shenandoah for now. Jackson, however, still has his force up there as a threat to DC while Beauregard is at Manassas and Zollicoffer/Bonham at Fredericksburg. Major Federal buildups are at DC Alexandria and Philly, where the bulk of the fleet sits.

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In the Far West the city of Bloomington MO revolted to the CSA. This is notable because the city sits on the rail junction leading to Kansas.

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Confederate raiders in the shipping lanes are sinking 3 money/turn. This is equivalent to the cost of a militia every other turn, or a flea biting at an elephant. Take your pick. Conversely, blockade runners are bringing back 2 money and 11 war supply/turn, which does help the resource-strapped South for sure.

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Tue Sep 21, 2010 4:36 am

Turn 8 Planning Stage (Late July)- This looks to be a turn of positioning as John is completing the escape of Polk to the safety of Forts Henry and Donelson and Manstein is building, with the one minor tactical move of reinforcing Fort Monroe with a division and Farragut’s fleet from Philly.

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Reacting to the movement of Butler to DC John is sending Jackson to Culpepper in apparent anticipation of an attack. This effectively leaves the Shenandoah valley empty with just a few militia. It appears John is willing to concede his Northern threat which may effectively make this a head-to-head grind in the East. Kirby Smith is being dispatched with over 2,000 cav of the 1st VA Cav brigade, including some horse-borne art, on a scouting mission deep into Union territory towards Annapolis.

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Sun Oct 03, 2010 6:20 am

Turn 8 Results – The Union has passed “The Confiscation Act” declaring “insurgent property” the lawful subject of “prize and capture” (+10 CSA NM, +1 USA NM, +200 USA dollars). Congress passes the first ever income tax law (200 USA dollars).

In the East, Confederates under Smith have recaptured Harper’s Ferry and sacked the city’s supply and ammo depots. Smith continued on to Montgomery and evaded the US cav element there. Scouting mission accomplished as DC and Alexandria are now fully visible.

K. Smith’s Report:
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Smith’s command continued on to Annapolis sent a militia element fleeing then in turn fled itself back to Montgomery as Federal elements heading towards DC compelled him to withdraw. A second brief skirmish in Montgomery and he falls into passive mode his ammo depleted. Unfortunately his retreat path sends him back to Annapolis and another engagement (we’ll say he was pursued from there too) and back to Montgomery again and yet another engagement. Total CSA casualties on the foray numbered over 500 troopers. A little over 200 US serviceman were killed in the skirmishes.

In the Confederate rear, Theophilus Holmes assumes command at Nelson VA with a brigade under his guide bringing the total number of Confederate “strong points” in the East to four: Mannasas, Fredericksburg, Richmond and now Nelson. On the Federal side, Manstein’s rogue “alien” balloon has arrived in DC. CSA spies report an alliance between aliens and the North. Panic ensues.

In the West, CSA elements have destroyed the Lexington, KY depot in anticipation of a move by McClellan into that state. In the Far West, things remain mostly quiet save for the 3rd US Cav Rgt. Next on its rampage list is the Creeks Indians. This will probably not go down well in history.

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Confederate support and morale is surging across the South as the result of the aggressive actions in the East and Union inactivity (and truthful propaganda relating to 3 cav rgt). John has also stepped up his commerce raiding, sending 18 money to the bottom. Manstein managed to get 22 to his ports.

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Manstein has a 219-point overall lead.
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Mon Oct 04, 2010 11:17 pm

Turn 9 Planning Stage (Early Aug)- Manstein is focusing heavily on marine elements during this planning stage. Perhaps to round out his regular divisions, also possibly prepping a naval-borne force.

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In the East Manstein is indeed pulling a rope-a-dope on John. Hooker is returning to Harper’s Ferry and it appears he’ll claim all the important N Virginia strategic cities without a fight as John reacted 100% to his initial moves.

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John now has 13,000 troops at Manassas under Jackson, 20,000 troops at Fredericksburg under Beauregard and 6,000 troops in reserve at Charlottesville under Holmes. With Hooker’s 17,000 troops marching North Manstein has some 67,000 troops facing him in DC and Alexandria with their flank threat apparently removed. This will prove to be a double blow for John as a fort is just about to be completed in DC by Manstein meaning he will need to leave even less in that city’s defense. That said, this turn at least the main Federal army remains stationary and the campaign season is rapidly dwindling for Virginia.

In the West McClellan is finally unleashing his first foray into Kentucky as he is dispatching the Sixth Division under General Asboth to capture Lexington, which is being hastily vacated by John, who wisely blew the depot the prior turn. Federal forces are simultaneously dispatching to Louisville as a staging point into the state.

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Mon Oct 11, 2010 4:59 am

Turn 9 Results – John has printed paper money to replenish his depleted stockpile, but inflation is beginning to be an issue for him. McClellan has been proclaimed commander of the Potomac army. As an explanation, President Lincoln was quoted as saying, “Hay, at least he moved a division in Kentucky. McDowell and Scott haven’t done a thing.” He purposefully overlooked the actions of Hooker.

In the East, Hooker has seized the initiative for the Union. He arrived at Harper’s Ferry on day 3 and for the fourth time the city has switched hands. The 700-man rebel garrison was shattered with 500 casualties and 200 men taken prisoner. Hooker took 0 casualties which again brings into question Union cruelty in this game. One can only assume the rebels were rounded up and executed or perhaps burned up while slumbering in their bunks.

Kidding aside it cannot be understated how big this victory is. Unless there are some drastic changes, in six months Manstein has almost bloodlessly claimed a region that was historically fought over for years. This is the biggest event to date in this match.

Confederate EK Smith’s battered command narrowly evaded Hooker and numerous Federal cav screens to escape back to the CSA rear and Holmes’s position for some much needed R and R.

At Richmond President Davis banished Union sympathizers from the South (+1 CSA morale). Camp Dick Robinson at Louisville has become a rallying point for some of those frustrated Union sympathizers in Kentucky.

Perhaps in response to those frustrations, McClellan (this apparently impressed Lincoln more than Hooker’s endeavors) unleashes some of his strength in the West. Nine hundred Confederates have been pursued and rounded up by Asboth at Lexington at the cost of 60 Northern troops. Lincoln feels disobeyed by his immediate subordinates and wants to move outside of that circle for new leadership. Hooker’s “their guy.” He doesn’t want “their guy.”

On the Southern side, instead of merging Polk’s veterans with the Army of Tennessee at Nashville as expected, John is digging them in outside Forts Henry and Donelson (level 3). His 5,000 troops have also received Columbiads. It appears he has been given the important task of defending Nashville’s water-borne invasion routes, which in light of some intel to be explained further on, could prove quite beneficial.

In the Far West Federal forces have recaptured Bloomington, leaving one of John’s militia elements, which had been trudging towards it on a failed forced march, high and dry. Nathaniel Lyon’s 11,000 troops have fallen back to St Louis, intent unknown and unseen by John. In total there are now over 22,000 Federal troops at St Louis including 3-star generals Halleck and Fremont. The fact Foote’s fleet, which includes eight transports, is also based here indicates a possible river-borne assault in the works. This brings my point about John’s defenses at Donelson and Henry into focus. If Polk hadn’t escaped out of Illinois, Tennessee would have been in serious jeopardy.

A foray of Texas Rangers in the Southwest, with the apparent aim of capturing Denver, has been blocked and nearly wiped out at Tuscon by the 5,000 troops under Edwin Sumner. Only thirty men managed escape back to Laredo.

John once again sank 18 money this turn. Additionally CSS Alabama and Florida are now under construction in Great Britain and should eventually augment John’s commerce raiding. Notably Southern casualties have now surpassed the North, and Northern money reserves are falling somewhat without the augmentation of congressional legislation, which they had been receiving in prior turns.

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Mon Oct 11, 2010 6:19 pm

Turn 10 Planning Stage (Late Aug)- In a show of almost excessive respect, John continues to react heavily to Manstein’s moves. In the East, he is blowing the depot at Manassas and evacuating the town.

[ATTACH]12689[/ATTACH]

Also, detecting Manstein’s forces at Ft Monroe he is pulling his 6,000 reserves under Holmes at Charlottesville out and sending them via rail to Norfolk. Those forces will be replaced by an equal size detachment of brigades coming from Richmond and Fredericksburg and set to merge under EK Smith to form a new division. Incoming to Richmond from the South are approx 6,000 fresh recruits to merge under supreme commander, Samuel Cooper and Robert E Lee (newly arrived). John is also sending CSS Virginia – which had been patrolling the James estuary unchallenged - up the James to try and break the Richmond blockade. That move proves intuitive as Manstein is sending Farragut’s powerful fleet into the water region CSS Virginia is vacating this turn. Manstein is also pushing Hooker forward to capture Winchester- the other strategic point in the Shenandoah. Notably though, the main army remains stagnant.

In the West, Manstein is combining his two divisions currently in KY at Louisville, and as expected is dispatching Lyon’s force from St Louis to Cairo to link up with the division which has been parked there since the Illinois incursion. John remains passive, but in the Far West he is sending scouts towards St Louis obviously attempting to keep tabs on Lyon. The CSA miltia element that failed to capture Bloomington is attempting to move to the St Charles docks, just North of St Louis. Things don’t look good for them, out of food and supplies and a 20 day march ahead through hostile territory.
In the Kansas Territory the ravaging of Indian lands continues. Second US Cav is destroying Ft Smith, KS.
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Fri Oct 22, 2010 4:28 am

Turn 10 Results - The CSA has dispatched commissioners Sliddell, Mason and Rost to Europe to lobby for aid (+2 foreign entry level).
In response to John’s initial invasion of KY that state’s legislature has declared its loyalty to the Union and is demanding the immediate removal of all rebel forces from its borders. The fact the state capital is occupied by US forces may have also affected their decision making process. Net result is much of KY is now invisible to John.

A naval engagement took place on the James River:

[ATTACH]12756[/ATTACH]

In one of the few notable events this turn the Virginia, its guns apparently outranged, has been turned back at the gates of Richmond. Seven of its cannons were knocked out and 43 of its crew perished. None of its volleys found their mark. Although the US fleet attempted to engage it the following day, Buchanon opted to flee into Richmond, leaving the city on half rations.

At the other end of the river Farragut’s command has been bombarded by the Norfolk batteries for 32 hits. They dealt 15 hits in return fire.

Manstein appears to be purposely leaving his forces at DC separated to mask his true strength. The main force is under Scott, but there are no less than nine stacks in the region at the end of the turn. Is this any indication of a possible offensive for this year? He has 141 naval transport points. With complete control of the James a naval-borne strike towards Richmond or elsewhere seems increasingly likely.

[ATTACH]12755[/ATTACH]

Hooker has captured Winchester. Once again 700 men wiped out without a single US casualty. As a result he gained a level in seniority. The US populace applauds their leadership’s harsh, bloody methods as Union support is creeping up across the states. That said, an angry, homeless Indian mob thinks differently. In the Far West Stand Watie has allied himself and 1,500 indian warriors with the South.

Harsh methods aside, this has been a remarkably unbloody Civil War up to this point. Manstein has opted for the passive-aggressive strategy in the East, in order to avoid the meat grinder that 1861 can be, and it has worked. In so doing he has sacrificed the chances of a quick victory, however, and afforded John a chance to breath and set his defenses of Richmond. Rumor has it the other game is the complete opposite. We’ll see which strategy wins out.

John’s raiders have sunk 18 money and 0 WS. Manstein’s merchant marine delivers 21 money and 0 supplies to his harbors. John’s blockade runners return 2 money and 14WS. Additionally CSA gunboats have captured a US supply steamer that veered off course in Pamlico Bay and have garnered 5 WS for their efforts.

[ATTACH]12757[/ATTACH]
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Fri Oct 22, 2010 6:11 pm

Turn 11 Planning Stage (Early Sept) – Manstein is attempting to outflank John’s line of defense in Tennessee by dispatching Lyon’s newly-formed 3rd Division to take Island 10. Definitely a weak spot in John’s line, currently there are just 1,200 men (1 line, 1 militia) with some light cannons incoming bringing that total up to 31 light and fort cannons. Still, it looks to be about a 7-1 advantage for Manstein who is coming with 7,500 MO veterans and 45 12 and 10 pounders.

[ATTACH]12760[/ATTACH]

John doesn’t seem to be reacting to this potential weak spot yet. Even though it’s clear Lyon is at Cairo boarded upon Foote’s fleet and clearly poised for some form of river-borne assault, Johnston’s 16,000 troops at Nashville remain stationary.

Simultaneously Manstein has dispatched a crew of cavalry regiments to repair the rails and pacify the countryside along the rail line leading to central Kentucky and Bowling Green, which was never taken by John. This would indicate that Manstein may be moving his Louisville-based army forward soon, which may be holding Johnston in place, but John has his gunboats at Nashville to block such a move and Forts Henry and Donelson are impassable without a direct assault. Therefore Johnston, or at least a portion of his army, might be better used elsewhere. To his credit, John is not remaining completely passive as he’s launching a raid in Eastern Kentucky to capture the Ashland, Ohio depot along the Kentucky River tributary.

Both sides are also filling spaces vacated by the opposition across the map. In the Far West Watie and Price are racing for the Rolla, MO depot, which Manstein has opted to keep intact, perhaps intending to occupy it with a stronger force later on. In the East, Hooker is marching on Manassas.

[ATTACH]12759[/ATTACH]

In both cases it’s a perfect situation for a larger force to be re-inserted to defeat a smaller occupying force similar to how Manstein re-moved then re-inserted Hooker to capture N Virginia. Neither player seems to be using this trick – yet – however. In John’s case, the size and weight of Manstein’s Eastern army, his history of, well, blitzkrieging some of his previous opponents (John has first-hand knowledge), and the threat of a seaborne invasion is clearly on his mind. Therefore he is perhaps wisely switching to 100 percent defensive in the East. EK Smith’s newly-formed division is heading towards the James Peninsula and the Laurel Brigade of 3,000 elite cavalrymen is in a criss-cross patrol mode South of the James apparently intended to intercept any invading elements that might be used by Manstein to sow confusion and disrupt the rail lines. Notably Confederate cavalry is traditionally stronger than their Northern brethren because of the Southern lifestyle and backwoods training and this is the premier cavalry brigade for the South. Hence the “elite” label.

Although the pace is slow now, and some soldiers may be resting in their trenches enjoying the pleasantries sent by their wives and families and calling this a phony war, darker days are coming...
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Mon Oct 25, 2010 5:25 am

Turn 11 Results – “McClellan has been appointed as CinC of the Army of the Potomac. 100 political points to remove.” Honestly I’m not sure what this message means. McClellan was supposedly appointed two turns ago. Maybe Lincoln’s saying, “Now I really mean it!” Unfortunately for him he’s just a screaming little man while Manstein is God. McDowell is still in command at Alexandria. One can only assume that he’s receiving commands by telegraph from Cincinnati and McClellan, and it will cost 100 political points to install anyone else as commander of the Potomac army. Both of those generals are rather painful to use (McClellan 1-1-2 but with some nice traits, McDowell at 2-2-2), and you must choose between them so I’m pretty sure that’s what our imprecise message means.

Elsewhere Ulysses Grant, a veteran of the Mexican War and West Point grad, has come out of retirement to train and recruit troops at Cairo IL. His teachers speak highly of him and predict great things.

A battle took place on the Mississippi:

[ATTACH]12783[/ATTACH]

Nathaniel Lyon has captured Island No. 10 and its still-intact guns in the West. Perhaps more importantly, he is now promotable. Although he took 14 hits from the fort’s guns, the CSA troops outside the fort including the recently-arrived light guns fled leaving the line troops inside the fort isolated. It all resulted in a rather painless battle. The men inside the fort faced a maelstrom of lead and surrendered en masse. Return fire took out 150 Union men on the beaches. The Rebel flank has now been seriously compromised by the loss of this strong point. Additionally, everything north of it is now safe from Rebel river-borne attack.

The approaches to Memphis are still covered by rebel gunneries at Columbus and Covington, North and South of Island 10 respectively, but they’ll be nothing more than nuisances. Memphis itself is currently defended by 600 men and 8 cannons along the river and Heiman’s Brigade of 1200 men and 8 cannons not quite at level 4 outside the city. A fairly powerful mixed gunboat/transport fleet of 16 ships, and the pending completion of the ironclad CSS Arkansas rounds out the city’s current defenses. The Arkansas’ construction, however, may be irrelevant if Manstein moves quickly. Albert Sydney Johnston has arrived from California to help assist the situation as need be for the rebels.

One notable: Manstein only has 51 river transport points and Foote is still back at Cairo so a direct river assault is highly unlikely in the immediate future.

In East Kentucky, the 1100 cavalry troopers which took part in the assault on Ashland, Ohio were probably surprised to find that what intel had called the “3rd Ohio Militia” had actually converted to a line regiment. They never really had a chance without ample supplies and facing a well-trained enemy in multi-level trenches. Following a brief engagement in which about 150 men fell on both sides they fled.

[ATTACH]12784[/ATTACH]

Likewise Sterling Price’s assault on Rolla has failed in the Far West. This battle was somewhat more surprising because Price came with 1400 troopers supported by brass cannons and was facing militia. Unfortunately there was no follow-up as Watie’s force was more than two weeks march behind him, and now Manstein can seize the counter initiative if he so chooses.

Also in Missouri the Hempstead Rifles – John’s starving militia element wandering around in the north of the state – has disintegrated for lack of food. Brave souls these men, who marched into the wilderness never to return.

In the East, Hooker has captured Manassas, taking 30 casualties. For the time being, North Virginia has been secured.

There was an engagement at sea between Rafael Semmes command of the frigates CSS Plymouth, Germantown and Sumter vs Palmer’s San Jacinto, Constellation and Sumpter. Hits went 2-2. Fitting, because the sides were equal right down to the names! John’s Atlantic merchant raiders have sunk 18 money again. His blockade runners return 14 money and 3 war supplies. Manstein returns 22 money. Economic sunrise has lowered CSA inflation by 1.

[ATTACH]12785[/ATTACH]
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Mon Oct 25, 2010 8:49 pm

Turn 12 Planning Stage (Late Sept) – Manstein has placed 8 new river ships under construction including four ironclads. John is raising his rail capacity by 10. John seems to have missed a chance to place an embargo on cotton. This was likely done on purpose to conserve money and more importantly points. It might also be because the main benefit is a morale boost and his morale is already high at 109. Manstein’s skipped a chance to print 5% War Bonds. That decision will leave him with just 13 money, but since his army is large and it would cost him the all important 25 VP’s he too likely made a conscious decision here. He, however, has the luxury of using his points if need be due to his large overall point lead. John does not.

In the West, things are being placed in motion by Manstein all across the board. John’s reaction to the Union capture of Island 10 is surprisingly light. He is dispatching Joe Johnston from Memphis along with about 1,200 militia and cav plus assorted gun elements to merge with the 2,000 troops already defending the city. In contrast, Lyon’s command numbers 7,500 with an additional 7,500 coming down from Cairo on Foote’s fleet. Manstein appears to have anticipated a stronger reaction. He has opted not to push forward this turn and instead will rest and amalgamate his strength.

Albert Sydney Johnson has taken sole command of the Army of Tennessee, which remains stationary at Nashville. Coming his direction are the Union forces from Northern Kentucky under Grant. Twenty five thousand troops in all coming by rail, river and foot and set to merge at Bowling Green while his vanguard of 1200 cav troopers push forward to Gallatin across from Memphis.


[ATTACH]12792[/ATTACH]
Manstein moves forward.

So the disposition in the West is 15,000 river-borne troops under Lyon and 25,000 under Grant versus 15,000 CSA at Nashville, 6,500 under Polk at Forts Henry/Donelson, and 3,000 at Memphis along with the nearly finished Arkansas and gunboats. Skirmishing also continues in the East of KY and Ohio where John is pulling back at the moment.

In the Far West John is launching a second assault towards the Rolla Depot- this time by Watie and his Indian warriors. Unfortunately Manstein is reacting. He has Henry Halleck’s division heading straight down the rails from St. Louis. He has pulled the exact same trick as he did in Virginia with Hooker. No doubt this is a purposeful strategy intended to inflict pain. This is another odd move by John because Indians can’t capture cities unless military control is at a very low percentage for the defender (I believe 10). At 96 percent military control and with Halleck’s division so close this isn’t exactly sound decision-making. Perhaps he had no choice. Perhaps Watie’s anger for the evil North’s deeds has compelled him to use unsound strategy. Behind him Sterling Price is retreating to Springfield. More logically this is a holding attack by John.

Our profile element, 3rd Cav Reg, having finished with its mission in Indian Territory is heading North to Lawrence, KS.

In the East, John is shifting his defenses in prep for a possible water-borne invasion. EK Smith’s 6,500 troops are moving to Hanover VA just East of Richmond while the Laurel Brigade continues patrolling South of the capital. Meanwhile another 7,000 green troops are departing the capital and merging with Bonham’s command at Charlottesvile. Manstein’s no-go in 1861 is allowing John a secure capital at least.

Manstein still has his army stationary. With 80,000 Union troops and growing one gets the distinct sense that this is calm before a storm. It’s been this way for awhile though, so who knows. Obviously Manstein has opted to avoid the Eastern meat-grinder for the time being. Maybe he’s conserving his troops for 1862 – maybe for something else. One can only imagine John’s anxiousness. The only question is where Manstein will go… and when?

[ATTACH]12791[/ATTACH]
John's defenses solidify.

1st SC Reg remains at Fredericksburg and is now under the divisional command of Zollicoffer and overall command of Beauregard who arrived two turns ago with the Army of the Potomac. Both of its infantry elements have converted to line and have 89 cohesion. Charleston Light is at 84 cohesion. The men around them wonder if they’ll ever see combat. All this drilling. Drilling, drilling, drilling. Will we ever be put to the test? Of course, they know better having seen combat first-hand at Fort Sumter. Their wisdom would be a tool likely implemented by Beauregard in teaching his many green troops exactly what they will be facing down the road.

[ATTACH]12793[/ATTACH]
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Tue Oct 26, 2010 4:36 am

Jim gave me the combined games points total:

Total point differentals:

turn 8 219 for Manstein
turn 9 205 for Manstein
turn 10 201 for Manstein
turn 11 297 for Manstein
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Mon Nov 01, 2010 1:45 am

Turn 12 Results – US Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles has authorized runaway slaves to enlist in the navy (+2 WS, +5 conscripts). Manstein also received two new elite brigades by event. John has received some militia and cav regiments due to the Island 10 incursion.

In the Far West Stand Watie wisely retreated before battle at Rolla, MO with the far superior Union force present. Reacting to the presence of Halleck’s division John has formed a division at Springfield of the formerly independent cav and militia regiments in the state. They number only about 4,000 men now while Halleck has over 7,000. Still, favorable numbers if you’re on the defensive.

In the West Foote’s command has delivered a second division to Lyon. They were hit 9 times by coastal batteries in W KY while returning 11 hits. A gunboat took minor damages. Also, a minor engagement took place at the Ashland, OH Depot and for the second turn in a row the Confederates have been turned back. Neither side took casualties – a combat only in name. Gallatin, opposite Nashville, has been captured by Manstein and he has eyes on the Athens of the South as Grant arrives at Bowling Green.

The East remains stagnant.

CSA merchant raiders sink 18 money. USA merchant fleet ships in 22 money and 1 WS. CSA blockade runners bring in 10 money and 7 WS.

[ATTACH]12932[/ATTACH]
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Mon Nov 01, 2010 9:03 pm

Turn 13 Planning Stage (Early Oct) – Manstein’s artillery-laden machine is lurching forward. The duel-headed offensive in the West has Lyon’s 14,000 veteran troops marching forth from Island 10 along the Mississippi towards Covington and Grant’s 26,000 moving on Polk at Forts Henry and Donelson.

[ATTACH]12951[/ATTACH]

Notably Grant’s force is not completely consolidated as about 3,500 troops under Thomas Meagher and an artillery regiment are still moving down by river barge along the Greene River. Their route towards Donelson and Henry takes them by river along the Cumberland, which should be interesting considering the Confederates have the banks pretty well covered with guns.

John has also dispatched his 18-ship Mississippi fleet to cover the river alongside Memphis. What John has not done is dispatch his gunboats at Nashville to cover its approaches even with clear intel that Grant is within striking distance at Bowling Green. Again, four naval elements can block a land unit’s crossing 90 percent of the time. He has six gunboats and four transports just swaying at the moorings in Nashville. I would say without a doubt a fairly major oversight. John has also opted to leave Memphis lightly defended with just 3,500 troops (and gathering) under Joe Johnston. This could be a result of his non-use of his gunboats at Nashville. He’s not willing to break up his 15,000-strong Army of Tennessee or Polk’s 7,000-man force.

[ATTACH]12950[/ATTACH]

Some interesting developments in the East. Farragut’s fleet is being recalled to D C, transports and all. Perhaps John’s maneuvering to cover the sea-borne side of Richmond has not been in vain. Perhaps our many musings on a potentially major water-borne invasion have not been in vain. Where for shall they go? John clearly is asking the same question. He has Buchanon once again attacking Dalghren’s fleet in the James with the freshly-repaired Virginia, and EK Smith, now in command of a division is marching towards Ft Monroe with apparent intentions of placing it under siege.

[ATTACH]12949[/ATTACH]

In the Far West things remain stagnant.

John is producing 20 locomotives. He continues to not place an embargo on cotton. Manstein is producing 12 river gunboats and transports and 4 ocean-going transports. He is not using his war bonds or printing paper money.
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Mon Nov 08, 2010 12:42 am

Turn 13 Results – Nathaniel Lyon has been promoted to the rank of general.

Traveling down the Cumberland by barge 1st Ohio Cav Regiment and 3rd Ohio Lt Art have unfortunately mis-timed their arrival and found the guns of Forts Henry and Donelson to greet them. They were demolished with 20 and 11 hits respectively. Meagher and Grant arrived nearly simultaneously following their artillery vanguard, and the following battles ensued.

[ATTACH]13137[/ATTACH]

The criminal invaders of Illinois have been sent to flight. Grant swept aside Polk’s henchman, McCulloch, who was guarding the approaches to the Forts at Clarksville against enemy screens; vaporized a surprised militia element; and then marched South of the forts through Humphreys region to avoid the water penalty.

Now facing the forts and the rear of Polk’s entrenchments he opened up with his cannons proclaiming, “Now witness the firepower of this fully armed and operational gunnery!” Wisely Polk ran without a fight across the river to the Henry Docks. The forts were left to their fate and Polk took zero casualties of his own. The CSA brass is left to contemplate how it can possibly neutralize Grant’s huge artillery advantage - all six pounders which have magically converted to 12 pounders per the game engine. Grant captured the fort’s guns and supplies. One thousand Confederates were killed in the two engagements. Grant claimed revenge against the cowardly invaders of his home state and is now promotable to a new rank.

Along the Mississippi Lyon arrived at Covington, just North of Memphis nearly simultaneously. The following battle ensued:

[ATTACH]13134[/ATTACH]

Lyon takes 800 prisoners and 2,000 rifles as prize and is now promotable to a new rank. He then enters the city to quickly recuperate for the pending push on Memphis.

In the East there was a battle on the James:

[ATTACH]13135[/ATTACH]

Once again Buchanon has been pushed back, but this time he got in some licks. With Farragut having vacated the area – in the process exchanging 16-12 hits - Dalghren’s fleet is in a precarious position indeed.

The Far West remains stagnant as Watie’s Indians merge with Van Dorn at Springfield.

CSA merchant raiders sink 18 money. USA merchant fleet ships in 22 money. CSA blockade runners bring in 12 money and 4 WS.

[ATTACH]13136[/ATTACH]
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Wed Nov 10, 2010 1:21 am

Turn 14 Planning Stage (Late Oct) – Manstein is launching a major amphibious operation to capture New Orleans. His most veteran troops under the command of Hooker have boarded Farragut’s fleet. They have an average cohesion above 80 where as the average Eastern division is in the mid 60s right now. They will be supported by Farragut’s fleet which includes 12 modern steam frigates, 10 transports, five frigates and four brigs. The force is rounded out by 2 independent cav regiments, two militia elements, and an engineer and signal company. A second 9,000 man force under Erasmus Keyes is set to assault the Mississippi Delta. Thirty two thousand men, 4300 horses, 44 ships and 500 cannon in all - a formidable force by any measure. Total travel plus offload time is 28 days, so three turns.

[ATTACH]13157[/ATTACH]

South of Nashville Union cavalry is tearing up the rails in an apparent attempt to isolate Albert Johnston and prevent him from reinforcing New Orleans.

John continues to assume that the force will attack towards Richmond. He has EK Smith’s division moving to blockade Fort Monroe. Smith’s division will be reinforced by John Floyd’s command of some 30 light cannons and supplies coming from Richmond. Additionally, Norfolk is defended by a division under the command of Theophilus Holmes. In apparent reaction to the quiet nature of the Eastern front, he does have heading west via the Charlottesville – Knoxville rail line Bonham’s division and several independent cav regiments.

In the West, there is a mad race towards Memphis. Nathaniel Lyon’s (recently promoted) command is three days march from the city. Polk, coming by rail, is four days away so it appears that Lyon has the inside track. However, there’s always a slight delay before combat so there is a good chance that Polk could arrive in time to reinforce Johnston’s 5000 well entrenched troops.

[ATTACH]13156[/ATTACH]

Notably, Foote’s fleets is up delivering reinforcements to Grant’s command so is not supporting the attack on Memphis. The Confederate Mississippi Fleet is also not engaging this turn as it sails back into Memphis to merge with the CSS Arkansas, which is one turn from completion.

Third US Cav Regiment has arrived at Island 10 as one of the elements involved with the planned penetration of CSA lines to sow disruption and confusion.

In the Southwest 1200 United States cavalry troopers are moving on Laredo Texas, which is lightly defended by 200 Texas Rangers.

Once again, John has opted not to place an embargo on cotton. He has 20 locomotives under production. Manstein has opted not to print war bonds. He has nine assorted river gunboats, transports, and ironclads under production.
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Thu Nov 18, 2010 11:26 pm

Turn 14 results- the first snow has fallen in Kentucky and Virginia just behind Grant’s advancing forces. For the Confederacy it is a turn of change. Supreme commander Cooper has been removed from command in Richmond and the first election cycle has taken place (+1 CSA morale) confirming Jefferson as President.

A battle took place in the West at Memphis on day three:

The Battle of Memphis

Alarmed by Lyon’s rapid arrival from Covington, Johnston looked anxiously towards the Eastern rails by which he expected Polk’s command from Kentucky to arrive. Without these men he had small hopes of success. There had been a lull in the conflict; and at 2 P.M. it was announced they were not in sight. At that time the Confederates had 5,100 soldiers and thirty-two heavy guns in battle order on the plain outside Memphis. Lyon had arrived in the early hours and overwhelmed the town’s 900 man forward guard and entrenchments including 8 guns. He now turned his attention to Johnston and proceeded to attempt to drive him from his vantage ground.

To accomplish this, Morrell’s division of five brigades including men from Massachusetts, sharpshooters, Marines and the batteries of 1st, 2nd and 4th MO, and Waschman’s 10 and 12 Pounders advanced to turn the Confederate left, while Nelson was sent to annoy them on their right. General Wallace accompanied Lyon as his lieutenant in the field, and his divisions began the attack. Ricketts and Griffin advanced with their troops, and planted their batteries on an elevation that commanded the whole field, with the immediate support of Colonel Ellsworth's “Missouri Rifles” Zouaves, commanded by Colonel Farnham.

To the left of these batteries, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, and Indiana troops took a position. As the artillery and the Zouaves were advancing, they were suddenly attacked on the flank by 150 men of the 12th Arkansas sharpshooters in ambush, and then by 1,800 Georgian and Tennessee Cavalry in the rear, and the Zouaves recoiled. At that moment Wallace ordered up a Michigan regiment to support the batteries, when the Con-federates in overwhelming force delivered a fire on these guns that disabled them by prostrating the men. Both sides suffered dreadfully. When Johnston heard of the slaughter, he exclaimed, "Oh, for four regiments!"

It was now three o'clock. His wish was more than gratified. Just then he saw a cloud of dust in the direction of the Henry Ferry Railroad. It was a part of Polk’s troops, 4,000 strong, from the river, under General D Ruggles. They were immediately ordered into action, when the Confederates, so reinforced, struck the Nationals a stunning blow, just as the latter were about to grasp the palm of victory. It was so unexpected, heavy, and overpowering that in fifteen minutes the Nationals were swept from the field.

[ATTACH]13333[/ATTACH]

As regiment after regiment gave way, and hurried towards Covington in confusion, panic seized others, and at 4 P.M. the greater portion of the National army was flying across the plain towards Covington behind them over 2,000 men, killed, wounded, or made prisoners. The Confederates lost over 1,500. The nationals also lost many small-arms and a large quantity of munitions of war, and medicine and hospital supplies.

[ATTACH]13334[/ATTACH]

Most importantly, Johnnycai had won an important defensive victory securing his left flank in Tennessee and allowing the construction of the ironclad Arkansas to complete. Polk had escaped from Grant, reinforced Johnston at a critical moment and won a great victory through the forgetfulness of Lieutenant-General McClellan in Cincinnati, who had given Grant positive directions by telegraph not to move until he should receive further orders. These the commanding general forgot to send! Grant knew of Polk’s movement, but his orders to wait were imperative. The first he heard of the disaster at Memphis was through a morning paper from Cincinnati sent by courier, on November 7.

Could’ve been first Bull Run, huh? :D

Elsewhere Johnnycai ‘s fortunes are not so fruitful. Federal troops are advancing all across the Western front. Laredo in West Texas has fallen without a fight as the Texas Rangers fled before overwhelming numbers. Eastern Kentucky is now in Union hands as Mason falls to the 10th Ohio and 11 Indiana cav regiments. Union forces are now advancing on the Chattanooga rail line as third Wisconsin cav captures Overton Tennessee, at the foot of the valley leading to the rail junction at Knox Tennessee.

This news to the side, Manstein’s inactivity in the East has led to siege at Ft Monroe as EK Smith’s command moves in just after Farragut’s massive fleet cleared the area. They have inflicted five hits on the fort.

In the Gulf shipping Lanes an engagement took place. Manstein’s Sixth Fleet has found the Huntress Squadron while en route to New Orleans inflicting 19 hits in exchange for one. Both the CSS Huntress and Aitkan were sent to the bottom. Confederate raiders have sunk 18 Union money. The Union merchant marine returns 22 money and zero war supply. Confederate blockade runners return 13 money and three war supply.

[ATTACH]13335[/ATTACH]
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Mon Nov 22, 2010 3:09 am

Turn 15 Planning Stage (Early Nov) – Lyon and Grant have been promoted to three star generals. Both sides are working on increasing their rail capacity — Manstein has added 170 rail points, and John has added 20.

In warfare, momentum and initiative can come down to the most minute of decisions. Two key events have happened this turn and John is reestablishing the initiative.

[ATTACH]13467[/ATTACH]

Number one, chance and perhaps a little bit of lady luck has befriended the Confederacy. Rafael Semmes has spotted Farragut and John has spotted what Semmes spotted. His frigates, the Plymouth and Germantown, with a detection value of five and in constant outlook for targets in the shipping lanes easily located Manstein’s huge fleet sailing along the coastal shipping lanes, which had a hide value of only two. John will have to clarify, and I think he intends to, but it appears he has not only pinpointed Farragut’s fleet, but also correctly guessed that he is heading to New Orleans. M Bonham’s command has been rerouted from its previous destination of Western Tennessee to New Orleans! That’s 8000 men, 32 guns and supplies. They’ll be reinforcing approximately 1000 troops and 30 guns under Theophilus Holmes, who used his magic transporter to warp over from the East. Arrival time for Bonham is 20 days. Manstein’s fleet will arrive off of New Orleans in eight days. It will take him another day to disembark. He’s in for potentially a nasty surprise.

[ATTACH]13468[/ATTACH]

In that the CSS Mississippi is due for completion in two days, Manstein seems to be timing his attacks just before their completion. My assumption is John picked up on that after the attempt on Memphis and the Arkansas.

Although he is withdrawing currently from snow covered Kentucky, John is seizing the initiative in Western Tennessee. Joe Johnston is pursuing Lyon. Lyon is retreating to region Dyer, Tennessee just south of Island Number 10. Manstein has him in defensive posture with the green retreat if engaged option selected. John has Johnston in standard defensive mode, but since Lyon is retreating into hostile territory he’ll switch to offensive posture. Therefore, there’s a good chance of a second engagement. Manstein’s decision to send him to Dyer is likely because he’d retreat to the safety of Island Number 10, which is under 100% U.S. military control.

[ATTACH]13470[/ATTACH]

Covering Johnston’s flank is the Confederate fleet reinforced by the Arkansas, and in offensive mode patrolling the Obion and Hatchies Confluents adjacent to Memphis. They effectively control the river as Manstein has no river ironclads yet constructed and in fact will not receive any for 52 days leaving him in somewhat of a bind. He does have gunboats aplenty though, and Foote’s leadership so still is able to challenge John if he deems it necessary. For the time being he’s withdrawn all his ships North of Island Number 10.

And to the second point. An old friend is joining in on the fun. Third US Cav, which had been at forts Henry and Donelson is heading down the swollen, muddy Tennessee river with orders to disembark at Tishomingo Mississippi. Presumably Manstein intends to use them to tear up the rails in that important region, which links Western Tennessee to Central and Eastern Tennessee. The problem is Bonham’s command will be one day ahead of them. If you remember, they arrived at Island 10 two turns before. An extra turn of rest at Donelson and Henry perhaps cost Manstein dearly.

Both sides have also reinforced the West with divisions. Fitzjohn Porter is heading down the Ohio by barge to merge with Grant while John Magruder is en route from the East to Knox Tennessee.

In the East, John is seizing the initiative as well. For the third time the CSS Virginia will attempt to dislodge Dahgrlen’s fleet from Richmond. Also, EK Smith continues to maintain his siege of Ft Monroe. He’s delivered yet another five hits to the fort and there’s no relief in sight with Farragut’s Fleet out of the region. Ft Monroe has 129 supply points, but the 10,000 troops trapped within its walls use 41 points per turn. Therefore they only have about a month and a half of supplies. Manstein might have to consider going on the offensive before his men starve.

Jackson’s 14,000 men are falling back to Winter quarters at Charlottesville.

[ATTACH]13466[/ATTACH]

In the Southwest First and Fourth US Cav are heading towards Matagorda Texas, which is a strategic town and if captured would affect Confederate morale. John is responding with Henry Sibley’s 2000 troopers and eight horse-borne guns based at Dallas, which are heading down the Sabine River towards Beaumont Texas. Matagorda itself is defended by the 450-man garrison, the “Victoria Blues” militia.

[ATTACH]13469[/ATTACH]
Attachments
west.jpg
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"We shall give them the bayonet." -Stonewall at Fredericksburg.

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AGEod Grognard
Posts: 849
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Location: Somewhere in the Alleghenies

Sun Nov 28, 2010 9:56 pm

Turn 15 results- A couple of event driven morale boosters took place this turn for the Union. The YMCA has formed at Washington, DC providing food and comfort as well as spiritual guidance to the men in the city (+1 morale, +20 conscripts, YMCA medical element in DC). Additionally in the shipping lanes the San Jacinto pulled Confederate commissioners Sliddell and Mason off the Trent, which is strongly objected to by the British leadership (+1 Union morale).

A battle took place on the James:

[ATTACH]13723[/ATTACH]

Finally, in his third try Buchanon has dislodged Dalghren. Luckily the river remains unfrozen, but Dalghren must first sail by the cannons of Norfolk and he’s just hanging on by a thread. Further up the river the situation remains acute for Ft Monroe as well.

[ATTACH]13724[/ATTACH]

All across the front forces are taking minor hits from harsh winter conditions. Jackson’s command took 13 hits as it fell back to Charlottesville.

In the West Some rear guard skirmishing took place at Memphis as John recaptured the fort batteries with 4500 of his militia. The militia took 180 casualties while inflicting 30 and destroying two guns. Johnston has pursued Lyon north, but failed to arrive in time at Dyer to catch Lyon before the turn ended.

Further south John has received by event the European Brigade in New Orleans. This force of approximately 2500 militia men couldn’t have come at a better time as Farragut’s Fleet just arrived off shore.

John’s raiders have sunk 16 money and two war supply. His blockade runners bring back 15 money and one war supply. Manstein’s merchant fleet brings back 20 money and two war supply.

[ATTACH]13725[/ATTACH]
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score.jpg
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"We shall give them the bayonet." -Stonewall at Fredericksburg.

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AGEod Grognard
Posts: 849
Joined: Sun Jun 29, 2008 7:55 pm
Location: Somewhere in the Alleghenies

Fri Dec 03, 2010 5:01 am

Turn 16 Planning Stage (Late Nov) – In the West available Union intel indicates New Orleans is lightly defended and Manstein is moving ahead with the invasion of New Orleans. Unbenownst to him M Bonham is five days away on the rails.

[ATTACH]13819[/ATTACH]

In the duel-headed operation Erasmus Keyes’ command of 7300 men will assault Fort Saint Phillip at the Mississippi delta. Hooker is moving forward with his 16,000 men directly to New Orleans. Arrival time will be five days. Therefore both sides should arrive at New Orleans at the same time. It’s only a question of whether or not Bonham can manage to merge his 8000 troops with the 3400 in level four entrenchments under Theophilus Holmes outside the city.

To the north, both Lyon and Grant are moving forward.

[ATTACH]13820[/ATTACH]

Lyon is going to attempt to recapture Memphis while Grant is moving on Nashville. In regards to Lyon’s attempt Johnston is still in hot pursuit so it appears there will be a second battle in the plains. Not only that but a host of naval elements are converging on the area. Ahead of Grant’s advance John is intuitively evacuating his Cumberland River fleet of six gunboats and four transports. It has orders to travel past the guns of Forts Henry and Donelson, and to continue on to Memphis where the Confederate Mississippi Fleet consisting of the Arkansas and its gunboats are in aggressive mode still, covering the left flank of Johnston. All available Union naval units will also be supporting Lyon’s advance. This includes Foote’s command of 10 gunboats and eight transports, and a newly-formed fleet coming from Cairo, Illinois consisting of 18 gunboats, four ironclads, and 12 transports.

At Nashville Grant will be opposed by Albert Johnson’s 15,000-man Army of Tennessee, which is dug in at level four outside the city.

At the southernmost part of this region, Third US Cav has finished tearing up the rails at Tishomingo Tennessee and is moving on Savannah Tennessee.

On the Confederate side, First Virginia cavalry has arrived from the East and is in attack mode towards Lyon.

Net result of all this chaotic criss-crossing is? It looks like it’ll be eventful next turn.

[ATTACH]13817[/ATTACH]

In the East, Hamilton’s command of 16,000 men and 96 guns is a moving up to Manassas from DC to form a front with the Confederates. Meanwhile Dahlgren’s command is attempting to sail out of the James and back to DC while the siege of Ft Monroe continues.

[ATTACH]13818[/ATTACH]

In the Far West Sibley is moving on Matagorda Texas, which is currently under siege.
Attachments
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"We shall give them the bayonet." -Stonewall at Fredericksburg.

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