MrT (Rebel) vs. Barksdale

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Late September 62: [/size]

Am sorry if this post seems brief after the Virginia section, as unfortunatly Firefox crashed, now last times thats happened to me it restores the post that I was writing and that was no problem, however this time for some unknown reason it restored the early september text for me.... argh. Lesson is dont run firefox and ACW together.. they seem to disagree.

[SIZE="4"]Virginia
[/size]

Well still trying to mop up the militia that are running round like headless chickens, they have captured quite a few arty peices that were either railing towards Richmond or were been created still in NC, annoying but my own fault for not garrisioning correctly.
Otherwise things are pretty steady, ive done the overall power dispositions this turn, as it will stay preety much like this till next spring if I can help it, would enjoy 2 more corps commanders in this region as frankly I need 1 for the region marked with the pink circle, and 1 too be able to respond to coastal invasions that I expect to receive next year. Lets hope Barksdale attacks Longstreet again eh?



Also just off the shot in Fort Monroe it appears that divisions are restocking and regrouping, unfortunatly I cant do anything about it as I cant get down the penisular and even if I could, I am loathed to attack Ft. Monroe when its so strongly defended. Infact that would be a idiotic manouver even for me.
[SIZE="4"]
Tennessee[/size]

Over here on the left shoulder on my Tennessee front I am relatively happy with my troop layout, having started too dig in along my chosen defensive line. I feel that he does not have enough power in his finger hold too be able to launch an successful attack against any point in my line. Given that with a successful MTSG I can equal him for PW rating anywere along the front, and without its still odds of 2-1, add that to entrenchment bonus and it looks good for me in the short future here.
The only point of my line that worries me is Memphis when you consider he has his fleet just outside of my Town, and mines bottled up in the harbour, he could launch an assault across river, so I think my next priority will be to reinforce that city.
Also the 2 divisions under Cheatham currently in VA, will be coming down to this area too reinforce the line once they have received replacements to bring them back upto fighting strength.



Over here on the right shoulder on Tennessee, I would say that things look a little worse, especially after Van Dorn had one of those moments that make you wish the game had a firing squad option. This also cost me 4NM points. I have checked and that was 100% not his order to march into the enemy army located there.



However the good news is that this turn I am starting to construct the Fort in Nashville, it will take 25 days to complete which means that unless he attacks this turn I should be able to enjoy the defensive benift of it against any future assaults.
I also believe that he is habing some supply trouble in the region, when you look at his supply symbol it is showing orange, meaning hes not fully supplied, I feel this may buy me the time I need as Barksdale enjoys having a very secure supply line, lest he take a defeat purely throu starvation. Hes a methodical player, so I doubt that will be allowed to happen.



[SIZE="4"]Far West[/size]

Let start with some good news shall we? The battle of Little Rock was a draw, and although you cant see it Lyon didnt attack till day 11 even though from the battle report it appears he was order to assault the city all out. Now Forrest arrives in the region in 13 days time, meaning 3 things can now happen:-

1)Lyon retreats back into the mountains and hopes to reach home before he starves.
2)He assaults Little Rock earlier than day 13 and takes control, but is subsquently besieged by Forrest.
3)He maintains his siege and is then attacked by Forrest and defeated.

Personally I cant see a bad outcome there.. either way Lyons division is out of the game for the rest of the season, possiblilly the war. However what I would expect is that Little Rock will fall to another assault as its PW rating is down to a lowly 69. But by holding on a further turn it has ensured Lyons doom. Nearly makes up for Van Dorns stupidity, but not quite.



Over in AK, Task Force Hardee is preparing to assault before the division that Watie has spotted in Springfield joins up with McCooks command. Currently the power ratio means that Hardee should win, but just incase I've called Watie in too give me 50 more power, after all the smallest grain of sand can tip the scales. If I dont attack this turn I need to retreat to Fort Smith anyhow, and if it fails I need to retreat to Fort Smith so there is nothing to lose here by an assault.



Over in California, McCulloch is still trying to recover enough cohesion too launch his assault, we will flash back to him in 2-3 turns time.


Otherwise I've spent all my resouces on ordering replacements, men I have enough of after calling in the draft, but i really could use removing the blockade from Richmond or capturing California's goldmines.

[MrT]

Yep Jim, I really hate that about the ships, especailly as the south, you need these things to work lol. Your disadvantaged enough to begin with then... argh well I guess you know what I mean. Btw, Ive a divisionish of troops in New Orleans for such a eventuallity lol. Happened here before also.

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Early October 62:
[/size]
Well, if any more confirmation was required that my opponent is a true master of the game, it lies within this turn, two or three smart moves by him are contained within, and 1 of them was as far as I am concerned frankly stunning and totally off the radar of what I had expected given the time of the year and the shortness of the remaining traditional Union campaigning season.

[SIZE="4"]Far West[/size]

Disaster followed by disaster, firstly McCullochs cohesion replenishing command was attacked by McDowell, resulting in all cohesion gains been wiped out, meaning an assault before winter destroys his command or lack of supply starts to bite is impossible, meaning a long and dangerous retreat lies ahead of his division back to the warmth of Texas (140 days at the moment but he rolled inactive).



Over on the Fayette battlefront, I am not entirely sure what happened here, the enemy seemed to drive my boys off with nearly no effort on there part, something that I'm finding most vexing. Unfortunately there is nothing to do but to retreat now, given that winter in this region always comes down hard and don't want to be exposed too it.



It also appears that Barksdale has succeeded in bringing up a second division too support McCook, am now expecting a counter attack in the direction of Fort Smith, I can only hope that Winter Conditions will decimate him as he begins his assault towards Confederate landholdings.

Over at Little Rock, it appears Barksdale is determined to take the town but the gallant yet supremely overwhelmed defenders are doing a excellent job in holding him at bay, 2 battles there this turn, 1 from his assault, and 1 from Forrest arrival, However given that Forrest's Division in the region I would 100% expect an exit attempt via sea (he will die crossing the mountains in winter), therefore I was compelled to below the depot that lies between Memphis and Little Rock in Madison. Something which also made me extremely happy I did that occurred from a unexpected a angle as you will see next.




[SIZE="4"]Tennessee[/size]

Lets start with the worst of the 2 shoulders of my Tennessee position the one controlled by the Army of the Mississippi, the cunning Blue-belly that he is, he launched Grants too divisions down river and launched a seaborne invasion of Memphis, before I had time to reinforce it further as I indicated in my previous posting that I would like too. But at least Colston and his brave boys went down together with the town, no accusation of cowardice can be made there. The most disappointing aspect of this battle was that even thou my fleet was parked in Memphis harbour with orders to bombard in support, you can clearly see they did nothing. Peeving. The extra fire power from the Ironclads would not have turned the battle I think, but would of at least ramped up the casualties suffered by my enemy.



How the region looks currently.



This has now thrown a real spanner in the works as I am currently determined to hold onto my defensive line that I have stretched across the upper section of the TN/KY boarder. So I've decided on a solution that only a semi crazed alcoholic Southern General could create.
Task-Force Jackson is currently been assembled with 4 Divisions and orders too depart as soon as humanly possible for the Tennessee front, (+1 he will receive in Reinforcement from the Army of Tennessee under A. Johnson) to engage Grant and throw him back out of Memphis.
Genius? Doubtful. Surprising for Barksdale when he sees 4 new divisions arrive in this theatre in 3 turns time, undoubtedly.



Over on the Right should of Tennessee the army under Albert, is doing just fine, waiting for the Union too attack towards the town of Nashville, with the Fort due too be finished construction in 10 days I am fairly confidant that with him having too attack across river that I should be able too hold off even the mammoth force the union has in the region.



[SIZE="4"]Virginia
[/size]
Well not a lot has happened over here, I have abandoned the defensive position set up by Johnson last turn in order to free up troops for the Memphis op. I feel fairly confidant that Winter will arrive in this theatre before he is able to strike me again, although I must admit there seems to be no action on this front at all.
Therefore I have decided to dictate the pace a little bit, using Stuarts Cavalry division, too attack Milroy and sending the troops out of there foxholes from Covington to capture the city after Stuart has mauled Milroy. The overall objective of this raid is too draw enemy troops away from the main lines until winter sets in. If the season holds out long enough I am too make a stab at Pittsburgh, as Barksdale's rail-roads too the town from the Washington area have still not been fully repaired.



All my conscripts are currently been spent on replacements in order to rebuild the reserves that were decimated by my repeated headbutting of Barksdale's position on the Fort Monroe finger.

[Mickey3D]

2) Why didnt Memphis bombard his fleet.

Artillery in fort will automatically fire at passing fleet. It's not the case in a city : check that the "bombard" button is selected for your force (it seems this order is unselected if the force becomes unactive... but you can click on it again even if unactive force) !!!


Great AAR. Thanks to you and Barksdale.


Three notes :
- Use your cavalry (and raiders) to gather information on ennemy forces (someone else already mentioned it) as well as destroy his railroads.
- As much as possible don't let a depot fall in northern hands (and this is especially true in Missouri/Arkansas) : it will cost time and ressources for the northern player to rebuild it.
- Attack entrenched ennemy only with highly superior forces.

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Late October 62[/size]

Well folks in general a quite turn, not alot of much happened, i recaptured my towns in VA that he had milita captured earlier... otherwise preety quiet except for 1 or 2 bits and pieces.
Also last turn Barksdale in a sportsman like gesture swapped the hosting with me, so now I am the host and have a better overall picture been able to see what is happening and all that, also my replays generate correctly so his disadvantage is not so great as mine was. And too my swiss friend (even if he is from the french part), yes indeed come next spring I intend to have 2-3 cav groups on each front too raid and cause overall confusion, especially given the depth in talent of cav commanders that will shortly become the Confederacy's way.
[SIZE="4"]
Virginia[/size]

Let me start with the one piece of real action that the match up saw this turn, Stuarts taking of Grafton.



Perfectly executed, town is now in my grubby hands, orders given to blow the rail lines, and progress onwards too Pittsbrough, General Talifrino of the horse will be arriving in a few days with orders to blow the depot. Cannot afford to slow Stuarts advance at this point, if I manage to complete all 3 legs of the journey indicated below, I will have cut his supply network in half. A most pleasing result.
Given that Grafton the doorway too this theatre was soo lightly defended I expect too encouter nearly no resistance mopping my the other 2 depots connecting the eastern and western halves of the union.



Over in the rest of the VA theater things are looking fairly quiet, am expecting minimal further activity here. My biggest concern would be a naval landing elsewere on my coastline, given the time of the year, and given Barksdale's ability to pull out the unexpected chicken from behind the childs ear, I feel my fears may become justified.
Another reason I have the coastal landing angst is that his fleet is toally gone out of the James river. Not into Norfolk to resupply gone, but totally off my radar gone.



[U][SIZE="4"]Tennessee[/size][/U]

Over here things are quieter than a Church during the week. Mostly waiting for 2 events to happen. What must be the attack by the Eastern Union command upon Nashville, and secondly Jacksons arrival to liberate Memphis.
Am also considering recapturing Madison Ark, which fell to the union this turn, with Forrest's division now Lyon is no longer his problem. Allowing me to block the unions retreat if it trys to do so during the Memphis battle. Just glad I blew the depot there last turn.



Am also trying to screen Jacksons arrivial with 3 cav units infront of Memphis to ensure I attain maximal success for my assault.



[SIZE="4"]Far West[/size]

For some reason over here I got my figures confused, there is only 1 division at Fayetteville and the other is further back in Springfield under Sumners direction. Good news for me then.
Also Hardee will make it back too Ft. Smith on day 10 and assault and hopefully terminate the Lyon command, which with its low low cohesion should be easy picking for my boys (hopefully).



[SIZE="4"]Other bits and bobs
[/size]
Well forgot to mention this last turn, but Barksdale played emancipation proclimation and nearly wiped out all hope of FI, and that combined with Van dorns mishap, gave the Union 100 moral... not good considering mine is also now 100. As you can see we are generating an even number of VP a turn also.. FI seems dead in the water as an option too me currently.



Also printed money this turn too raise 800,000 more dollars too purchase replacements, some of my units are weak, and with the rate Barksdale is printing money, I am preety confidant I can order another print issue.

[acme]

oh, Barksdale playes really well, but imho u were unlucky at points.

keep up the good work with the AAR.

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Early November 62: [/size]

Firstly sorry folks for the poor update, but I made a mistake, I thought I had all my screen shots taken and went and processed the next turn.. and well I didnt. So there is no Battle reports only overviews... Extremely sorry people, proper sack of nuts and bolts.
Acme thanks for the kind words, much appreciated, am often left open mouthed at some of the results that come my way, but thats the way it is, we notice the unlucky defeats more than the great or lucky victories...


[SIZE="4"]Far West:[/size]

Finally for the first time in the whole game have I brought Barksdale fleet too battle and won a decisive battle as well, preventing a division from crossing the river in support of Lyon at Ft. Smith.
Overjoyed would not be too great a word. With Forrest now having orders to march to the area asap too support Hardee and Price I feel the chance to elimate Lyon's Task Force is close at hand.



Given that I would expect him too try and rescue Lyons command once he sees Forrests march towards him, I wont be withdrawing my fleet towards winter quarters just yet.
As a down side.. it appears that mcCollochs invasion of California division will starve to death shortly. Disappointing.

[SIZE="4"]Tennessee[/size]

Massing Forney with about 1500 power just infront of Grants command, not enough to Panic him, but enough to hold him tight. Then once Forney is assembled there this turn I will assault with Jacksons command, giving me a 3-1 power advantage as long as Forney Marches.... I wanted to use the Army HQ for this assault.. but given that, that then means Joe Johnston is in-charge instead of Jackson I have decided to risk it too use Jacksons better attacking stats.



Also you can see the Union dogs are now running loose round Ft. Henry and Donaldson.. What a disaster that was. Everyone MTSG like they were ment too.. infact the troop ratio was good very good, nearly 1-1 as I recall, and he was crossing the river to assault... yet my troops got a small spanking before they decided to retreat.... why didn't I destroy him as he crossed the river, some Yanks have all the luck!
Have to assault next turn.. I need Jackson back in the VA theater asap. Without his presence I am devloping a nervous twitch everytime I process a move. Horrible isnt it.
[SIZE="4"]
Virginia[/size]

Well Luckly for me nothing is happening here, to be honest the troops are sat still doing nothing.. killed the cav unit that has been spying on Lees command the last couple of turns... but doubtless Barksdale will replace it soon anyway. Also moving Stewarts division back to Richmond away from Johnsons Corps, Stewart appears not too be receiving replacements fast enough in the field and a shatter division is not a useful division in my situation.
Otherwise Stuart has successfully conquered Grafton and is currently progressing towards the town Of Pittsburgh, which I expect to fall without a major fight.



There appears too be no Union forces within the area.. a boon for the swiftness of the operation I wish too carry out here.

Orders more replacements in preperation for the losses soon to be suffered by Jacksons command.

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Late November '62
[/size]
Well, everything hinges upon the resolution from this turn, for my ability next year to achieve any kind of local counter attacks or threaten Barksdale. If I can kick Grant out of Memphis, I will have cleared his progress for the last 6 months of the year clean out of the water, and will allow me to send Jacksons divisions back to Virginia were I am missing them dearly. Have already had to pass on 1 potenial offensive manovour here due to his absence, namely an attack upon Thomas now exposed Command.

[SIZE="4"]Far West.[/size]

Lets start with a grip, always best to get them out of the way early on, why are the Indian units in the region of Great Plains locked with no hope of resupply, I cannot see how I will be able to maintain them there. Especially since when using the supply filter is appears that while my poor Indian units are close to death via starvation, Barksdale's fort troopers are fine and well supplied. Strange eh.



Otherwise in the Far West, Forrest will attempt to sneak into Ft. Smith region recover some cohesion then either next turn or the following turn launch an assault upon Lyon whom im preety sure should starve to death in the not too distant future, the reasoning behind the assault is, let starvation thin his ranks, then before Barksdale finally gets those divisions too Lyon, kill him and take the experaince bonuses. Barksdale also tried to this turn move another division into the theater via river but that was again defeated by my proud navy, who can honestly call November the only month so far in the war, that they have done as ordered. Unfortunatly I appear not have caused any troop casualties but I shouldnt be greedy I have prevent Lyon and his henchmen linking up. Victory enough in winter me thinks.



Otherwise McColloch is still starving to death just waiting for him die currently. Inexperaince shining throu there.

[SIZE="4"]Virginia[/size]

Over here the obvious bright spot shall be General Stuart and his rampaging Cavarly division. They have now suceeded in capturing Pittsburgh, from the Union devils and the town is yielding an added bonus of 1 conscript company per turn. Wonderful.

Have decided to leave the en-fixed guns within the town, because every turn I hold the town after two turns.. is a extra conscript company compared to if I let the town return to Union hands throu free revolt after 2 turns. MrT logic may strike another blow for the rebel cause, or may expose another brilliantly dumb idea.



His next job is too complete the 3rd leg of his tour de force and capture the town of Wheeling, blow the depot there, then make a retreat back to VA, too ensure his men can enjoy a slight pause in operations before winter totally passes them by.



The one move that is of greatest concern to me is that made by Thomas this turn, he has flanked Johnson who is sitting in that region infront of Richmond, meaning I have 3 divisions outside of Richmond and that 1 division I sent back to Richmond itself last turn. The largest problem I see that is I have no spare 2 star generals anywhere on the map to let me create a Corps in Richmond itself, allowing it too benefit from the added assistance of Johnsons Corps. Hmm something to dwell upon then.
Also there is a new arrival on the Ft. Monroe finger, a Corps under General Skyes. This does not please me. It means that come spring he has ample choice of were he wishes to strike given that I dont have enough Divisions to be able to defend everything. Even when Jackson comes home in 3 or 4 turns time, god willing, I will still be hugely out numbered over here in the VA theatre.



The other bad news displayed by the picture is that, Barksdale was obviously quiet upset by the termination of his cavarly unit earlier on that side of the river, so hes brought the whole of lil Mac's army out of Alexandria to occupy the front. Am not too worried by the the thought of an attack, although given the time of the year the terrain is not been overtly friendly too the defender, its still Clear, Fair. Damnit I need a snow shower or something to conduct my next planned operation in this zone. For soon as the weather virtually rules out a Barksdale attack upon my positions in Fredricksburg I will launch a sting operation upon the force of Thomas, crushing him between Lees Army group and Johnsons corps formation. Allowing me to relax regarding his threat to my supply line.

[SIZE="4"]Tennessee[/size]

Over here the troops are in position for the battle of Memphis, Jackson and Forney will be launching a semi co-ordinated strike on this one, which should work as long as Grant is not set in any kind of offensive posture. Simpley put I dont trust Forney to have the guts too MTSG, so im ordering him in devensive stance to enter the region on day 7 which by happy coincidence is the same day that Jackson arrives with his head of steam. Hopefully there will be a anvil (Forney) and the Hammer (Jackson) combining together to created a crushed Union force. Hopefully.



Otherwise a quiet looking front, I expect Beull and co, to finish Fort H & D, and then expand operations with the coming of the good weather. Hopefully things will start to look up in this theatre in the near future.

Otherwise I am still churning out the single factory in GA, and using my 18 conscripts per turn to by replacements.

[enf91]

About the locked Indians... That's the Great Sioux Revolt event. Barksdale has to keep 3 units in that box or lose 50 VP. If he has fewer than that, your units unlock early.
About Pittsburgh... I hope I'm not revealing any game secrets, but the arty unit is a support unit, which won't stop it from reverting to Yankee control. If CSA loyalty in the city is 10%, you can suspend habeas corpus for a turn to bring it to 11 and prevent a revolt.

[MrT]

About the locked Indians... That's the Great Sioux Revolt event. Barksdale has to keep 3 units in that box or lose 50 VP. If he has fewer than that, your units unlock early.
About Pittsburgh... I hope I'm not revealing any game secrets, but the arty unit is a support unit, which won't stop it from reverting to Yankee control. If CSA loyalty in the city is 10%, you can suspend habeas corpus for a turn to bring it to 11 and prevent a revolt.

Thankyou x3 enf91, explained why my Indians look like dying soon, and the other information is quite useful.
If I am honest I am learning so much from actually writing about what I am playing, and from the little bits and bobs of knowledge that I have so far collected in this thread.

Thanks too everyone who reads it, and a extra thanks to those that contribute .

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Early December '62[/size]

Well, interesting turn all round, as usual Barksdale has found a way to send a shiver down my spine this turn. Thing turn could indeed be called Pride before the fall. As an overall comment, I am currently pleased with how things lie, especially given the obvious gulf in skill between me and my opponent, a clear and obvious example of this, is the sub-blime way that Barksdale makes use of his raiders be the Milita or the cavarly verity. He is connsently challenging my supply lines with his raiders and trying to block potential lines of reinforcements from been used before he attacks. To be totally honest, I found that its not as much of a hiderance yet, as I suspect it might be later on when im trying to cover wider stretches of terrain with possibly in the best case, only half the troop numbers he can call upon. However those thoughts are all for the future. Onwards with what surely was an action packed turn, both sides postal offices are going to be kept busy sending Dear Mrs Smith letters over the Christmas period.
[SIZE="4"]
Tennessee[/size]

Well its logical to begin here, because what happened here effects what can happen in the other 2 currently operational theatres.

Firstly and most thankfully the attack by Jackson and Forney actually went to plan!

Forney moved into the region then joined in the battle when Jackson arrived what appeared too be about an Hour later.There combined strength pushed the enemy too the brink of defeat and claimed the battlefield.



Not a good casualty ratio though. However the battle report does not include the 128 hits Grant took retreating from the battlefield, I did the maths, and this means it was a casualties draw battle wise.

Then Grant having decided not too retreat from the region, left himself open to another assault by Jacksons troops, whom still be overjoyed from the first slaughter of Yanks, decided too open another duck shoot up, and promtly routed the enemy forces, inflicting a further 85 hits (3500 men?) during the retreat in adddion too what you can see here.



Glorious, means the overall casualty count for the battle from Memphis stands around about, 1.5 - 1 in my favour. Not a war winning Ratio, but now he has too retake the damn city, and im preety sure that Grants formation took a server mauling during the operations.

The reason his power rating still appears so high on the over picture below is that he received a fresh division for the second battle.
Two of his divisions are down to below 100 pw, the other 2 look okay at about 300 power each



Overall a situation that had to be quickly resolved given the devolping situation in the East of the Confederacy, but more on that shortly.

As a quick thought regarding the future here, I would not be totally surprised if Grants batter command decided to split into two forces, one with the two semi intact divisions going to take Little Rock, which is decidedly undefended at the moment just 2 inf battalions and 1 12lb cannon, and the other with the Battered divisions retreating to the rear to refit and rest.

[SIZE="4"]
Virginia[/size]

As per normal lets start out with General Stuart and his succulent raiders.

They have managed to arrive successfully at Wheeling WV, however they were unable to assault the city successfully, it appeared to be a quite half hearted effort, not even worthy of a battle report.

Therefore he is order to assault the city again, correctly this time, and bring in and the depot under the control of the CSA.



Back over in the heart of VA, little Mac continues in his persistant assaults upon Lees position.
Taking yet another hiding from the forces of good, the forces of evil were forced again too retreat, if only I had the forces here I would love to take the offensive for a turn again lil Mac after one of his headlong charges of sucidalness.



The casualties ratio is nearly perfect for me as a southern, 2.5 – 1.

We can only hope that in future the enemy is not more reluctant too throw his troops into the mouth of the beast than he currently is. My troops are gaining countless experience points that will doubtless prove vital later on in the game, and my Generals are gaining experience also from such victories.

Beneath and around Richmond the plot is thicking, remember last turn, Thomas moved into position above the City of Richmond, now it appears Hooker has landed beneath it, with a force consisting of 2 divisons of currently unknown strength.

They captured the city of Petersburg and so have control of a depot, doubtless Barksdale will ensure that is blown asap, to try and disrupt the flow of supplies into my VA forces.



However what is really causing me to feel although ive just been bullied by the older boys at school for my lunch money is, this force, under the command of Meade, sat smack bang in the middle of the James river. You will also notice this force is not travelling light in terms of Artillery, I am just curious were is he going, Hooker or Thomas.. or the now nearly empty place were Hooker and Thomas lived all summer.

jamesriver

I was tempted to attack down this finger now that its quite empty, but given that I am considering withdraw Johnsons division into Richmond itself to ensure I dont lose the Capital before Jackson arrives back with his 4 Veteran divisions, I wont bother atm.

However lets see were Meade lands before we panic totally.

Ah yes and on another note I found a Corps command for Richmond, one Gustavus W. Smith who commanding the division within Norfolk under Beau previously. He has now been assigned by smuggles into Richmond to take control of the divisions of Stewart and Bonham that currently are inside the Fort.




[SIZE="4"]Far West[/size]

Nothing is happening here, Forrest arrived successfully and now hes keeping his down low this turn in order to recover some much needed cohesion among his little soldiers. Next turn I shall consider lifting the siege here. Ah and McCollochs command is totally dead now :/.


Otherwise, ordered 2 replacements and kept my low level of industrial investment within Georgia going.

Ah and yes last turn before I can chose all those lovely options again. Good, I need the replacements!

[enf91]

As I said on Barksdale's thread, your battle of Fredericksburg was nearly identical to the actual battle there. Burnside resigned after that one; I wonder what Barksdale will do after this.

[acme]

congrats for ur sudden move by jackson.
i think u really doing well.
keep it going!

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Late December '62[/size]

Intresting turn, no real battles occoured, but this turn was not about battles. It appears that my opponent was happy just posturing and getting himself into good position for what I can only presume will become a body blow turn, over the Christmas period.

Enf mate I only can hope that Barksdale retires too!

And thats Acme for the continuing encouragement mate.

[SIZE="4"]Tennessee[/size]

Well another disaster involving that dunce, Holmes, firstly he let Fort H & D fall without a fight, now he has retreated from his position in-front of Nashville, without a fight, totally opening it up to been surrounded and starved to death.

Therefore will all possible urgency General Polk has been ordered to commute from his current location too the TN region, and secure the depot Town below Nashville.


Meanwhile General Holmes, in what could prove to be one of his last commands of the war, has been ordered to drop down a region in order to ensure the supply lanes are kept open.


Over in the Memphis region, Grant appears too be sitting tight which is worrying, and strange but I am confidant of been able to hold Memphis against a counter assault, after all hes on the wrong side of the river again.





Meanwhile General Cleburne freshly premoted too the rank of General while launch a small counter attack to reclaim an ironclad under construction that the Union swine have captured in Helena, and then if the situation allows he will progress onwards towards Madsion recapture that, then try and capture and blow the enemy depot at the end of his movement arrow. So nothing too difficult then eh?


[SIZE="4"]Virginia[/size]

Well, Stuart finally took Wheeling this turn, hes now received orders to blow the depot then high tail it back to the Virginian heartland as the crisis there is beginning too thicken.



There is now the beginnings of a serious situation developing, the enemy having decided that he cannot pass Lee's Army group head first, has decided to attack via the backdoor, Meades Corps has landed, in the same region as Hooker, and also now Butler has brought the one remaining penisular division over too Hookers location also. This combined with the fact that Hooker was Corps'd for the first time during this turn, leads me too believe an assault on Richmond is due.


The enemy has a total of 3 Corps consisting of over 4000 power rating within a region of Richmond, 2 below one above. Therefore I have ordered Johnson to uproot and force march to Richmond with all possible speed too assist the defenders there.

The cuerrent odds minus Johnson are just over 4-1 in power ratings. Having not had great success so far with MTSG, I have decided it cant be risked to leave Johnson in his deep trenches. Sad, yet unfortunately true.





Perhaps with a piece of luck I can destroy the enemy when he decides too assault, which must be soon as he knows Jackson surely is head back in this direction now that he has left Memphis. Or his assault becomes bogged down outside Richmond, and I can steamroller him with Jacksons command acting as a hammer and the fort at Richmond like an anvil.


However that must wait even thought Jacksons command will be back within the area next turn, unfortunately, I have to wait at least 1 additional turn in order to regain cohesion, remember these troopers have not stopped for longer than a fortnight since they set out for battle at Memphis over 3 months ago.


Otherwise everyone else will sit tight, am awaiting the return of Stuarts division then depending upon the weather I may probe in the direction of Washington with Longstreet and Lee, however that is for the future after this Richmond mess is cleaned up.


[SIZE="4"]Far West[/size]

All the action here is centred round Ft. Smith, which is acting perfectly as it should, a blocking stone in regard to enemy advance across the little Rock region. I have decided to launch the attack upon Lyon this turn, his 500 power against my 1200 power, the other advantage I have here, is that he cannot replace his losses in the field, I can. Meaning that, even if I lose the battle, he wont be able to refill his already thin ranks, after my Little Rock success earlier on, Lyons division must be thin on soldiers.





I did want to wait longer till starvation had taken a effect upon his numbers but, it appears that Davis has constructed a depot on the opposite river bank. I had orginally thought he was sending the wagon too Fayetteville to restock, and come back too resupply Lyon. Obviously not. Lets hope the weather hampers the depots effort too pull supply forwards.


[SIZE="4"]Overview[/size]

Well as you can see, I have called the Volunteers in, raised 378 companies of mercanarys/Volunteers, and have already spent the vast majority of them on recruiting new replacements.


Was annoyed about having to request the supply trains but frankly a good breeze could kill most of my supply units at the moment, they are showing nearly full red in over 70% of cases. Not good.


Using my embargo roll trying to boost that FI level back up, I still have a faint hope of getting those extra divisions into the game, it will only take another 60 turns if FI keeps a level score board.


Offered to swap prisoners with him again, am preety sure he's no reason to swap with me, after all I need the men he does not. Maybe compasion will drive too send the boys in Grey back too there loved ones.


And of course too finance all this wonderful spending I raised exceptional taxes and issued the customary 6 monthly offering of 8% war bonds. Its a good job the faithful masses keep on buying these war bonds, otherwise we really would be deep in the gutter by now.

[gchristie]

MrT,

The Union does have an incentive to exchange prisoners. According to the relatively outdated manual, unless things have changed with the new version(s), if both sides asked for such an exchange, they release 1/3rd of the prisoners of war (POW’s) they hold in their camps. And the Union gets 2NM and 15 VP for the prisoners exchange.

If this is incorrect, someone please let us know.

Am enjoying your AAR, keep up the good work.

[Jim-NC]

Wow, 30% inflation. You have been a very busy boy with the presses. Good luck with the defense of Richmond, but 4-1 odds is not a good place to be.

[MrT]

Hey Jim, by my reconning Barksdales Inflation can be anywere as high as 70%(i didnt keep an accurate count at first), hes printing money like its going out of fashion.

Ah ha, thanks Christie I never knew the Union had some advantage with the prisioner exchange, personally I never make it because it gives the south the single resource they lack most after 62, Men.

Thanks for the feedback guys.

[enf91]

Wow. War bonds and taxes give exactly the same amount. Either that is some sort of cap or Southerners have tons of spare money.

[slimey.rock]

Hey MrT, finally caught up with your exploits! Exellent read and an exellent AAR. Congratulations with your recent success. I think the South is in good hands.

I'm surprised to see so much action in Arkansas. Usually it is kind of a backwater, but there has been a lot of bloody fighting there. Anyways, protect my homestate to the last man!

p.s. I think you're making the right call to move E. Johnston to Richmond. I've found that troops fight much better when already inside the region than if they MTSG.

[MrT]

ah ha Slimey, I knew there was a reason I am defending it too the last man.

And yes enf I was as surprised as you by the fact they gave equall supply of money to the Southern cause. We can check if its a bug next time when i can produce the money issues.

Sorry for the delay all, but was unfortunately two days in Germany looking for somewhere new to live, all sorted now.


[SIZE="4"]Early January[/size]

Well a Interesting turn the New Year turn was. It turns out the Union are heartless even sending there boys out on big assaults over the Christmas and New Year period. Countless minor battles happened also, mainly against Barksdales 10000 raiding unit. Yes I exaggerate, but sometimes it feels like that .


In fact Polk actually gave battle too enough of those Raiders that he could earn the 2 seniority points that he required, too be promotable too 3 stars, but since that brings me no benefits but currently his experience level gives him a 4-0-2 stat rating, he can stay at 2 star.

[SIZE="4"]Tennessee[/size]

Okay all operations in Tennessee passed off as ordered, unusual in itself.

Grant appears to have retreated in the direction of the standalone depot that is set just above Little Region in order too resupply and re-equip his devastated divisions.


Cleburne is successfully in position too assault across the river and claim the Ironclad hull back for the CSA.



As you can see here, Forney's command is close too full strength now, and I don't expect too see any further action on this shoulder of TN, for the foreseeable future, 3 months or so, Grant must refit, bring more power to bare, and wait for the weather to change.


Over in Eastern TN, the story is slightly different. Polk has succeeded in his march to the depot and will now advance 1 further region in order to be able to have MTSG working in his favour. Therefore Holmes Corps and the Army of Tennessee under Johnson will also switch positions. Increasing my chance of a successful MTSG, and allowing me too bring 1600 power to a battle in either of the Corps regions. Lets hope that plan works as planned.





But if Holmes decides to run like a child again, there is still a division inside the Fort in Nashville itself. That should hold up at least a middle sized corps for a few months.


Overall given current force strengths and the inhuman amount of ground I have too cover in this theatre with limited resources, I am considering my current position a resounding success.

[SIZE="4"]Virginia[/size]

Over too the theatre that is causing me sleepless nights, and making my girlfriend consider leaving me unless I stop screaming for “Jackson” in my sleep.


Basically Jackson arrived at his location successfully after 1-2 minor skirmishes with more rail raiders. He is gathering cohesion just too the left of the current Union positions, which brings me nicely onto the next subject.


Union tries to strike two places at once, both successfully repulsed by valiant southern defending. Cannot believe that so soon after the hiding he took at Fredricksburg that he has come back, that cunning dog, Lil Mac however marched his troops across the river, in the middle of winter. The weather was horrible. More of them will have died from frost bite than from southern guns.. it was a slaughter from the outset.





However it has put a crimper's on my plan to squeeze Thomas between Lee and Richmond, but never mind with a 4-1 casualties ratio from the battlefield even the South can win war.


Then onto the battle of Fort Richmond, while a Confederate success, I was massively disappointed by the actual troops that were taken casualty here. Given the defensive bonus of the fort, it clearly didn't do the job it was meant too in protecting my boys. Annoying.





But the Union has been driven back and we are currently looking forward too seeing what there next move is going to be. Hopefully they wont stray far before Jackson can hammer them.


My biggest problem at the moment is raiders coming from ships, like in the shot below, the can appear so far behind my actual lines that I am unsure were I need to garrison. I seem to spend more time repairing rail lines than processing the rest of my turn. Four cav units on the ships.. and all 4 go in different directions then onto another ship, were they appear too refit. I presume they do, since they never appear to die once they board the ship..





The final moan about the raiding from Barksdale that I have is, units are red on my supply filter, yet continue probing deeper into my land, so it appears through CSA eyes that, Barksdale is using his raiders were no supply is convenient to his target like Kamikaze units.


And the overall scene as I find it at the moment, hopefully my super scout Bella Boyd will find out the strength of the enemy closer to Washington, as I currently weighing up a strike to try and take the enemy capital out of business if mine can hold out enough. But that's just musings at the moment, lets see what happens here and now.




[SIZE="4"]Far West[/size]

Last but not least, lets take a look at the Far West conflict zone, were the battle is centred around Ft. Smith, well unfortunately the assault that was ordered last time around was unsuccessful.





However the situation is not totally without hope, it would appear most of the casualties were sustained by one division alone under Price, therefore I have ordered an imidate follow up attack by the remaining two divisions who cohesion and moral is still strong. Given that he's now down to a little over division strength with low cohesion in both divisions, I may be able to drive him from the region before Davis can cross over the river to join him.





Looks like the damn depot pulled supplies from Fayetteville wonder if it can forward them over the river to Lyon or not, lets hope not.

As a general overview here, I am pleased that I have managed too keep him away from Little Rock for the first 2 years of the war. However in the present time due too the worsening situation on other fronts I am considering withdrawing back towards Memphis with these forces and combining them with other troops too either strengthen existing formations or to create the basis of a new Corps.


Therefore, henceforth the highest (after replacements) priority will be given too getting all the brigades I can create out of this region, prior to abandonment.


[SIZE="4"]Overview[/size]

Finally some good news again on the Embargo roll front!


I rolled a beauty of +21 FI and my good Union friend managed to annoy the Brits so much that they gave me another +8 points. Nicely bringing the current total up to 34 FI. Only another 86 more points too collect but it looks achievable again, if I can last the turns till the next roll is active, without losing anything major on the NM front, my lead in VP is 300 at the moment. I am collecting 47 points a turn compared to his 42.


I think then, that if I cant achieve FI before he catches my lead in VP, I never will in this match-up.


And here's what I ordered this turn, am still trying to build up my River fleet, have 3 Ironclads under construction now, and 1 captured hull that I am trying too reclaim in TN. I just hope to be able to block his relentless Mississippi river push come the summer, after all when he has no river its harder for him to push supplies in this theatre.

[enf91]

*whack*
Over too the theatre that is causing me sleepless nights, and making my girlfriend consider leaving me unless I stop screaming for “Jackson” in my sleep.
*chainsaw*

And that's why you don't let her move in until she's stuck with you forever .

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Late January '62[/size]

Well, after having found out the enemy has no respect for the weather at any point in time, I can only take that too mean Barksdale understands the most important point of ACW, its not winning battles that counts so much as making the south Bleed. Bleed the south and you cant fail but win.

[SIZE="4"]Tennessee[/size]

Well, Cleburne successfully crossed the River and retook the Ironclad hulk back from the enemy, am looking forward to been able to ensure that remains in CSA hands for the near future until she's ready to sail upon the high seas.





His next move will to be recapture Madison then hold that route too Memphis open till such time that I can retreat the divisions from Fort Smith, to Memphis. That operation should take place as soon as the river unfreezes allowing the retreat of the naval fleet from Ft. Smith, were unfortunately it has become trapped over winter.





Johnston's Army of the Mississippi has been ordered towards Ft. H & D to try and recapture that for the CSA and hinder the supply too the troops of the Union currently on my side of the Nashville Fort.

Over by Fort Nashville, the enemy seems to have stayed in his current position and is waiting perhaps for me too make the next move here. The positional change of Holmes and Johnson went smoothly without enemy interferance.

Otherwise all is quite in the moment, although Barksdale has been making threatening emails against Nashville for several turns now!!

[SIZE="4"]Virginia[/size]

Interesting development this turn, Butlers force seems to have retreat from its location between Petersburg and Richmond too the coast, which can only mean good news for me, perhaps he's retreating to Fort Monroe to refit, although I did not think that the battle for Richmond had cost him that many casualties.

Over on the other side of the Richmond sandwich, Thomas has also retreated back towards Tappanhannock, therefore, I am sending out a small unit of soldiers into the region that he had previously occupied and there to recapture the ground in order too enhance my ability to supply and reinforce General Lee.





The next thing I did was launch an immidate recall for the newly premoted General Stuart, in order that he can lead a division (Cheathams formerly under Johnson) sized Corps, down the Fort Monroe Finger and hopefully capture it, if it remains as weakly defended as currently it is.

Johnsons division is ordered too move out towards the region between Richmond and Petersburg, while Jackson is proceeding towards Petersburg itself which is currently undefended. Then if the enemy has not retreated by the end of the next turn, Jackson will take a poke at there will to fight.

Also a supply wagon is been sent up towards Petersburg to rebuild the depot there that the enemy had blown. Supplys are currently having trouble coming forward given the huge number of raiders that seem too be happy molesting my lines. Destroying them is close too impossible, just need too keep the main supply arteries open though.

Bella Boyd also did her job perfectly and I now have perfect information on the enemy's strength in the area of Richmond. Which is useful.

[SIZE="4"]Far West[/size]


Over in the Far West my second assault against Lyon has successfully removed him from my presence, although the fact the Ft. Smith is longer under siege is due too the same mistake been made by Barksdale as I made earlier.





He dropped his newly advancing column under Jeff Davis, onto Lyons command, now as you can see from the battle reports and the screenshots, I defeated Lyons command, but then, Davis's division advanced into the region also and soundly defeated Hardee twice, however, because he was told to link up with Forrest he also withdrew.





And the second defeat.






Lesson here is... never link command between movement phases. Barksdale has said that also cost him control of Memphis as it caused Grant to engage a second time and then retreat when he was defeated.





Am thinking about perhaps in the near future sending a division from the FT. Smith to capture Fayetteville from Sumner as it appears weakly defended, too force Lyon back, before I engage in my general retreat.


Also remember last turn I ordered to new formations out of Arkansas, well one arrived in Little Rock, 2 infantry 1 cavarly, and the big one, 4 infantry 1 cannon arrived in Ft. Smith, were promptly, it was destroyed by bad weather, as if I don't have enough problems, now the weather hates me and prevent me from bringing my last understrength division up to full strength..





But seriously seems odd that a formation that is newly created can be destroyed by the weather before it had even received a single trooper. Perhaps, a small yet useful improvement the developers can consider for future incarnations of the engine.


[SIZE="4"]Overview[/size]

Ordered two replacement line regiments, need to draft soon, but want to hold off till he drafts, do not want him too see I am desperate for new troops. Otherwise he'll be more relentless with his assaults than he currently is.

Am currently at the divisional limit so there is a lot of brigade sized commands floating round the map at the moment, if you see one of these, you can see them as unmarked forces with leaders on my overview shots, you can presume they have a power between 80 and 150.

[soundoff]

[SIZE="4"]Late January '62[/size]
its not winning battles that counts so much as making the south Bleed. Bleed the south and you cant fail but win.

Ah so the penny has dropped has it Mr T. Thats exactly how you should win in PBEM if you play the Union. It was the way the North won in the real war


Edit..... I agree with Soloswolf or perhaps it was AndrewKurtz who argues that if the South does no more than survive until the historical end date it should be a Southern victory....irrespective of NM's and VP's

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Early February '63[/size]

Well folks were past the third Christmas of the war, and all those Newspaper folks who said this war would be over by Christmas of the first year, certainly have a large amount of egg to wipe off their face. However unfortunately I feel my beloved Confederacy creaking at the seams as the toll of trying to hold of the Union monster takes its toll. Simply we do not have the men or industrial power to hold off the monster forever.


Been at divisional limit since the spring of '62 and can not create any more divisions despite troops too create possibly another 4-5. Vexing especially since I don't have enough Corps leaders too be able to form independent task forces that would be up to the job of stopping a coastal assault or similar strategy from my opponent.



[SIZE="4"]Tennessee[/size]

Over in TN, Johnston's command was successful in its mission to capture Fort Henry and Donaldson, however given the strength of the enemy nearby, an immediate withdrawal is ordered, I would of liked to stay and destroy the fort, but that requires 15 days.. so obviously for practical reasons I wont even attempt that, just hope the manoeuvre will keep Barksdale on his toes and has nipped slightly at his supply to his top heavy formations in the region of Nashville.






So speaking of Nashville, I am currently looking for a Hangman. Yet again has Holmes let me down. He decided to ignore his orders too hold at all cost and retreated from the battle before it began, and before the Army of Tennessee had even a chance to march to his aid.


Now the fort is surrounded, Pemberton is inside and in charge of a division under the command of Jones, I don't expect them to last long, hopefully 2-3 months (they have a supply wagon), by then I intend to have established a new line of defence further down, based around the depot in Pulaski.






Am loathed to consider falling further back than that presently, as it would expose Atlanta and the soft underbelly of the defenders at Memphis.


Over by Memphis Forney is continuing his entrenchment operations, and currently has achieved level 4, the slightly sadder news is that although Cleburne recaptured Madison earlier in the turn, Barksdale had chosen this moment too extract Grant from the depot were he was hiding and progress towards Madison himself.





Luckily Cleburne is smarter than your average bear, and decided not to fight Grants whole army with his single division and so retreated prior battle taking only minimal casualties in the retreat. He will now recross the river and rejoin with Forneys Corps.




[SIZE="4"]Virginia[/size]

Well interesting development over here, the Union monster has decided too press his claim upon Norfolk, I guess that Fort there is irking him more than I realised. Luckily that wont fall easily with Beau's Fort defending bonus and a full strength division within.


However he can bring what I would imagine when fully rested on the cohesion front, over 4000 PW rating to bare there... so this turn I am resting Jackson at Petersburg and have ordered Johnson to join him. The following turn we shall advance into closer contact with the enemy, possibly preparing an assault upon his position we will have to wait and see.






Since Thomas's command is now with Meade and Hooker over by the Norfolk region, I cannot send Jackson too deal with the TN situation that is developing round Nashville. Annoying but that's just the way the cookie is designed to crumble at the moment.


The major encouragement out of this whole situation is that, he's got 3 monster corps feeding off two level 1 ports, not a situation I feel he can sustain for long.


My first priority is to recapture the Ednton port, and leave him only a seaward route of escape. He can land somewhere else that is no a problem, however, he cannot stay here, having too defend Richmond from 3 directions will not function with my limited resources.


Over by Fredricksburg, Hamilton's corps has received another Corps under the command of the more able General Howard. This means now he has another 1000 power in the close area too Richmond, so I can not weaken these commands of Longstreet and Lee to reinforce Jackson if he makes an assault.


In-fact I feel I may have to reinforce Lee and Longstreet in order to remain on a level power parity. Perhaps the Corps under Stuart, only 1 division I know, can fill the role. Am determined to hold him back that side of Fredricksburg for as long as possible.


Otherwise just the normal Militia chasing round going on.


Ah and on a seperate note regarding Stuart, Barksdale complained that I had teleported him away from the division which is experiencing supply problems over in Grafton, now since this was a pre-planned move from the turn he was premotable, that once he was premotable he was too be transferred to a more important command, I felt aggrieved. Yet Barksdale had a point, so I offered to return him to starve with his command, however Barksdale declined. Very good of him I must say as he would have been within his right too ask for a return. Good play old chap. Am a few turns behind in my AAR, plan to catch up in the next day or two, but thought id mention this sportsman like gesture/allowance from my opponent.


[SIZE="4"]Far West[/size]

Over in the Far West, I can honestly say, Nothing, totally Nothing has happened, its an Indian stand off at the moment, both gazing out over the river waiting for the other too flinch first.

[SIZE="4"]Overview[/size]

Well, not only yet again has Barksdale printed money, he's also called his draft incredibility early, however that fact now allows me too call my own draft up without appearing weak. And I do need the recruits.


Am really looking forward at the end of the game too seeing what Barksdale inflation rate actually was during this game.. He could be as high as 80ish % now. Incredible.


So I have called my draft in, will receive 600 conscription units, most of which will be spent on replacement units. However I would also like to assemble a new Cavalry force in the TN theatre and may recruit a few new cavalry units to build that division up (it will replace the division that I will surely lose in Fort Nashville).





Ordered a few replacements and 1 milita unit for garrision duty in NC.

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Late February '63[/size]


Well last round I took two heavy blows both my Forts in Nashville and Norfolk coming under siege, a disapointing moment in the birth of my young nation. However this turn was thankfully uneventful, I am not sure the moral of my nation could of taken much more. Therefore naturally due to lack of activity this is quite a brief update.


At this moment I am at a loss as were to strike the enemy too inflict damage of a level that would cause him pain. Everywhere I look he seems to have corps or more strength on all of the major fronts. Perhaps a opertunity will develop later for me, but for the moment I see no option other than too dig in deep outside the major objectives, and wait and see what happens.


[SIZE="4"]Tennessee[/size]


Over in Tennessee the situation remains static, the enemy recaptured fort Henry & Donaldson much as I expected the would, Cleburne successfully rejoined Forney's Corps.

Basically here I am clueless, I would like to blog about the big plans I have for a counter thrust and how I hope to drive the enemy away, but I have nothing.

Weather this is due too a lack of experience or simple down right bad luck I have no idea. Heres an overview shot of the whole Tennessee area for you, the readers, too mull over. (currently I am 3 months ahead of this turn, so feel free to comment openly if you see what I have or have not missed)





As far as I can work out here, my objective simple as it is, is maintain my forces strength to try and shield, the locations the enemy needs too take, such as Atlanta or Memphis.


[SIZE="4"]Virginia[/size]


Over in Virginia, two basic moves done, bringing Jackson too within 1 days striking distance of Hooker and Thomas, the logic behind this move is, Meade alone has 600 Power, not enough too take the fort, so I am hoping that, two things will happen, firstly that he attacks when a breech is made, and that he moves a Corps from Suffolk, Thomas or Hooker, and secondly leavess the other too defend Suffolk to avoid been bottled up in Norfolk.


When these two events happen, I will on the turn after the breech move Jackson and Johnson towards Suffolk and hopefully decimate an isolated Corps.


And yes if all these pieces fall into place I will sing and dance naked round the Big Market ( if anyone was ever in Newcastle for a night out, you know that aint something that's said lightly).





The only other manaover here was too bring Stuart too within support distance of Lee and Longstreet as indicated by the nice Pink circles.

[SIZE="4"]Far West[/size]


Over in the Far West nothing has happened, the Mexican stand off between Force Forrest and Force Lyon continues.

[SIZE="4"]Overview[/size]


Have decided to steal Soundoff's overview style as I found it easy on the eyes and effective.


Replacements

19 line Infantry
4 Elite Infantry
5 Cavalry
1 Light Cannon
2 Field Artillery

Reinforcements

2 Big Tennessee Brigades

Other Options

Printed Money for 862,000 Dollars

[enf91]

19 infantry replacements? Dang, your units must be WAAAAAYYYY understrength.

[MrT]

Nope its not so bad as all that enf, i just prefer too keep my inf replacements around the 15 level, because they get hammered the most frequently, and i dont wish too squander men on new units while others can be understrength prior too the next draft or call for troops.

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Early March '63[/size]

Well, a little bit more for me too write about this round, however I am currently enjoying a beautifully long winter, were it has melted this turn I am knee deep ion mud which is also a good friend too the south. which I think will defiantly shorten the period of the year where Barksdale will make his most aggressive moves. Hopefully.


[SIZE="4"]Tennessee[/size]


On the right shoulder of TN, my troops have withdrawn too what I expect will become there central line of defence, given the way the land lends itself too such a defence.





Am also still trying to find a way too remove the coward Holmes from Command, but yet I am sadly lacking in solutions.


Hopefully my Fort in Nashville will continue to attract the attention of the two Union Corps until its captured. An event I would expected earliest to happen in two turns time. Logic been he needs too establish a breech, 1 turn, then order the assault second turn.


There is also what appears too be two new divisions coming into the command reach of these 2 corps, or perhaps to give the Army HQ under Buell some bit, given that it currently consists of nothing more than artillery units. Will be interesting too see how it develops in this theatre, as I feel he could with some luck have enough strength to smash through my defensive screen and inflict some serious damage upon my rear areas.


Over on the left shoulder of the TN region, I am considering a withdrawal from Humboldt, in order too ensure my depot in Corinth is protected against a possible thrust from a corps currently sat outside Nashville, however that would not be implemented until the Fort at Nashville had actually fallen.





Cleburnes division has successfully rejoined Forneys Corps giving him 1500 PW rating with which to hold Memphis. Hopefully that should prove enough against all but the greatest of the Union assaults. Given Grants proximity on the other side of the river I dare not weaken the defences too strengthen the defensive works in the Little Rock Region, as perhaps I would like too in order to help secure the retreat line for the forces currently at Ft. Smith.


[SIZE="4"]Virginia[/size]

Over in VA, things are looking pretty similar too the situation from the previous turn. Lee and Longstreet are still sat opposite the main Union force in VA, while Jackson is waiting for the breech to occur in Norfolk before beginning his advance against the enemy, in accordance with the strategy I have previously outlined.


The main point of interest on this front is the arrival of a full strength division under Hancock by Ft. Morgen. I presume this is another Fort Buster operation similar too the one carried out by Hooker earlier in the war.





However wars are not won on presumptions, therefore I will proceed to send Stuarts Corps too the nearest mainland town in the area, Moorhead City, in order to prevent the possible establishment of a foothold down in North Carolina.



I have been for a few rounds now, moving all my troops within the Virginia region on red/blue mode, so that when they cross paths with raiders they will attempt to engage them, and also too recapture any loose city's that the enemy has taken during the movement phase.


[SIZE="4"]Far West[/size]


Over here still he's sitting on one side of the river and me on the other, cant go anywhere unfortunately due too the poor weather trapping my fleet, am still looking for the opportunity to start my retreat, although given the enemy's dispositions around the map Memphis area I will have too retreat towards Vicksburg then advance via rail up river towards the objective town of Memphis.





[SIZE="4"]Overview[/size]


Decided this turn to work on my cavalry division too ensure that I will have an effective striking force should an opening present itself in the near future, or too be able to react to a similar move by the enemy.


The 6lb cannons are too strengthen key Coastal positions, given that Barksdale has not yet attacked me in a meaningful way via seaborne invasion, I do expect one too come sometime this year. Therefore my aim is to raise the defensive potential of my KEY sea towns too about 400 PW or divisional strength. Hopefully with a kiss from lady luck, that would be enough to prevent the enemy landing and hopefully cause him some long term damage.


Also I am considering building some Ironclads for coastal patrol duty, as given there relatively high power rating and life, I would expect them to be able to hold the coast against a small invasion force if I can catch it while it remains seaborne.

Replacements

1 Line Infantry
1 Light Artillery

Reinforcements

8 Cavalry (5 LA, 3 MS)
3 Horse Artillery (MS)
7 6lb Cannons (1 LA, 6 SC)
1 20lb Cannon (VA)

[MrT]

[SIZE="4"]Late March '63[/size]

Intresting turn here, this could be the beginning of a summer of attrition, both of his current primary targets Nashville and Nolfork are ripe for assault, depending on the results from this turn will determine what forces I can spread to different locations around the CSA.


Winter still appears too be keeping her claws firmly in the land, with over two-thirds of the land covered in here white cloak.


[SIZE="4"]Tennessee[/size]


Close to Nashville the enemy is closing for the kill, both corps are in the region, the HQ has joined them, purely too direct the assault I imagine. I am not hopeful here, just praying my boys can die like men and at least cause a 2-1 casualties ratio. The structure is only partially breeched so they can at least enjoy some benefit from the walls of Fort Nashville.





The defensive line up on this flank is nearly completed, the only difference is that, Johnson and the Army of the Mississippi will drop down behind the two Corps instead of been infront of them.


By the Memphis front, Barksdale has again showed some class by spotting the large TN brigade recruiting in Covington and moving his whole Army of the South West under Grant, to terminate its creation. This lovely move by Barksdale cost me mearly 2 NM points and 3500 casualties. Ouch.





This leaves me with two problems now, firstly Grant has crossed the river, secondly Johnston's Army of the Mississippi is exposed infront between 2 Union forces. Therefore I have ordered the withdrawal earlier than planned of Johnston's Army, back towards the depot at Corinth. A step that I had too take too ensure no wedge is driven between the Armies of Tennessee and Mississippi.





Am forced to wait and react too my enemies moves over on this in this region due too a lack of free divisions for a counter attack operation. However that is a situation I am hoping too remedy in the near future, but more on that later on.

[SIZE="4"]Virginia[/size]


Well football fans, the Union has also created a partial breech within the walls of Norfolk and given Barksdale aggressive nature, I would expect him to launch his assault within this turn. Therefore plan GoldenEagle, is put into effect.





Jackson and Johnson will march with the joint movement order into the region currently occupied by the two enemy Corps. Now for the plan to work, the enemy must, must, must march 1 corps towards Norfolk to launch the assault then leave the second in Suffolk to protect his bridgehead. Then hopefully, no MTSG will occour, it seems to have been rarer than finding a 10 Pound note down the back of the sofa, in this game, and I can smash the remaining enemy Corps too pieces, then giving me the chance to launch an assault upon the remaining two Corps now in Norfolk region.


Over by Lee and Longstreet nothing has happened but given that its been a while since you saw that area of the map, ive included an update picture with the relative PW ratings of the commands. The PW of lil Macs command is guesstimated, hopefully it gives you an idea of the power he has in the area, 3 corps + loose units).





Hancock's division has ensured that Ft. Morgen has fallen despite an effort at resistance from the garrision. However now that Stuarts Corps has arrived in Moorhead City, I feel that no further direct progress shall be made in this area of the country.








[SIZE="4"]Far West[/size]


In the Far West I have decided too send Forrest's division away from Hardee's command to strike at the single cav unit opposite Little Rock, then from there he will progress into TN and try too link up with either Forney or Johnston's Army of the Mississippi. Hopefully then I can use this division to launch small attacks against Barksdale supply lines if he leaves me such an opportunity.





Also Lyons Force seems to have split from the other two divisions in the region, will be keeping an eye on the reasoning behind this in the near future.


[SIZE="4"]Overview[/size]


Still trying to build up those reserves of Line Infantry to ensure that when they are needed those replacement units can jump straight into the combat commands. The other units I will concentrate on shortly are the Ironclads and increasing my Artillery components within my various commands.


Also Barksdale is still as of yet refusing to swap prisoners, annoying but not critical, as when playing the CSA I expect never to get my prisoners back.

Replacements

5 Line Infantry

[Jim-NC]

You asked about things that you missed. I have a few suggestions:

1. Fire Holmes (actually, put him under Lee, where Lee's bonus will make him worth something).
2. Get some more Corps commanders (you do not have nearly enough). You need to fight some small battles against some overmatched union troops to allow some of your 1 star generals to become promoted to 2 stars. You could try Cleburne for example, or maybe Wharton. Either would add nicely to your group. I would recommend those raiders in NC.
3. Protect newly forming units (you saw the disaster at Covington), imagine if the other large TN brigade you ordered had formed in Nashville.