Bolt Action - Game Report 11

Operation Slice June 1944

Introduction

On to the second Axis vs Allies Tournament game. A chance for 9 Platoon 1st Battalion Duke of Glendon's Light Infantry (1 DOG) to redeem itself following its first battle - I hoped. The scenario for this game was Scenario 12 Sectors.

Situation

The battle to extend the Normandy beachhead is continuing. 1 DOG with support has been committed to exploit a gap that has opened in the German lines. Time available to exploit this appears to be short as a German counter attack is highly likely to seal of this gap. 

Enemy Forces

The Germans were identified as a platoon of Panzer Grenadiers supported by Mortars and Nebelwerfers with a self propelled artillery gun in support. 

Friendly Forces

9 Platoon was again supported by a Churchill, a Bren Carrier and a half track. The FOO promised us a preparatory bombardment and he did not disappoint. Both he and the Sniper were deployed well forward to support the operation.

Mission

9 Platoon is to seize and hold the village of St Honore.

Battle Report

I deployed 9 Platoon well forward in the north west quadrant, waiting for the preparatory bombardment against the Germans in the south east map quadrant. The Divisional gunners did not disappoint, and their fire was very effective in disrupting the German response. The initial task was to remove the German fire support. This, the Churchill and the mortar section were quite successful at. The FOO also managed to target the Nebelwerfer successfully.

The plan was to use the mobility of the Halftrack, carrying No 3 Section, and the Bren Carrier to secure the south west quadrant by attacking down my right. On my left I planned to advance No 1 Section and No 2 Section with fire and manoeuvre moving east and then south to secure the south east quadrant. While this was happening the Churchill would maintain a central position to provide fire support to the right flank, and left flank as required.

1 Section secured its objective, and the Bren Carrier was able to exploit forward to bring fire onto the depth of the German position. On the left the other two sections manoeuvred forward under fire, supported by accurate sniper fire. A number of German units were destroyed.

Outcome

A major British victory. Unfortunately the battle photographer failed to keep up with the battle, and there were only these two photos taken of the action.