Dust & Tears Campaign - A German Reconnaissance Mission

One of the benefits of a permanent gaming space is some times you just need to shuffle the table pieces. The second game of three for the Axis force.

This game is pretty even with both sides at equal points. Rolling for a scenario it's a reconnaissance patrol with the German forces having to unearth the true strength of the allied forces.

As this was a solo game, the counters represent the various potential Commonwealth forces, Yellow for light, pink for support and red for heavy. 

A desert farm complex has been identified approximately 5 kilometres beyond the current forward line. Intelligence reports are inconclusive regarding the strength and disposition of enemy forces occupying the position.

The farm may serve as:

A supply and water point, a platoon or company defensive position or an observation and reporting post for enemy forces operating in the sector.

Enemy troops are expected to conceal their true strength and will seek to avoid exposing defensive assets unnecessarily. Any advance guards or listening posts encountered should be assumed capable of raising the alarm and withdrawing to the main position.

Your detachment will conduct a reconnaissance of the farm complex 

The mission will be considered successful if:

• More than half of the suspected positions within the farm complex are identified.

• At least one heavy weapon or vehicle location is confirmed.

• The majority of occupied positions are identified.

• A reliable estimate of enemy strength is obtained.

• The patrol returns with sufficient information to enable a future attack plan.

The destruction of the enemy is not the purpose of this operation. Knowledge is the objective.

The Axis force probe forward using the stone wall as cover looking to get eyes on the main complex and immediately bump into a defending Indian section.

Meanwhile in a bold move throwing an armoured car forward flushed out more defenders and a shower of high explosive shells.

Pressing on yet more defenders this time an Armoured Car and AT Rifle team, the Axis scouts fell back.

A radio message back to Battalion HQ and a return dose to on the defenders.

A brisk fire fight and the olive grove was clear of defenders, the German AC having been beaten back on the main road to the village looked to push left only to be countered by the defenders.

With Germans firmly in control of the grove and eyes on the farm with over 50% of the defenders revealed, it was another victory to the German forces - They are finally on a roll.

With the Brits losing 625 Points and the Germans 350 - The Brits fall back on the campaign map.