CONTENTS
Introduction Operation Orders
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Scenarios 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.
An Attack on a Column An Attack on a Column II Flank Detachments A Bridge Party Reconnaissance and Battle Reconnaissance and Battle II Convoy Convoy II Advance Guard Advance Guard II Advance Guard Encounter Flank March
9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 27 29 31
Orders for Red Scenario One Scenario Two Scenario Three Scenario Four Scenario Five Scenario Six Scenario Seven Scenario Eight Scenario Nine Scenario Ten Scenario Eleven Scenario Twelve
35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 44 46 47 49
Editor’s Note: The following document has been designed to allow the gamer to print out the one, or in some cases two, page briefing for each player. As such we have declined to fill the “white spaces” with pretty pictures that may well provide some minimal interest when first viewed but after which will simply waste printer ink.
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INTRODUCTION This small volume contains twelve scenarios to accompany the von Reisswitz Kriegsspiel Rules and the Meckel Map. In addition to the basic scenarios initial orders are also provided for the Red side in each case. The idea behind supplying orders for one side is that it might allow a gamer who, through circumstance or design, is gaming solo. The importance of a considered plan of action in Kriegsspiel means that this can provide for an interesting game, seeing how ones theoretical plans work out on the map.
The Orders for Red Let me say first of all that I am not making any sort of claim for these orders. They are not put forward as any sort of model answer, but rather just what seemed reasonable to me at the time of writing. Secondly, by the time I came to write them out I had forgotten what I had given to the Blue side by way of troops, so they are quite genuine from that point of view. There was one instance, involving the building of a bridge, where I had a better idea of what Blue was up to than a player would get from reading Red’s briefing, but I tried to be fair about that in the orders. I have used a particular form of orders which I first came across in a German/English military dictionary. It is quite a logical sequence, and one I find helpful to use. I have given some notes on it later in this introduction.
Solo Players I want to make a few fairly obvious points about how to approach this. 1. Naturally you will have to make sure that you do not read Red’s briefing before you have provided some orders for Blue. The briefings are arranged for the convenience of an umpire with actual players – he can print out the two sets of orders and hand them to both sides. The Red briefings are clearly marked, always being placed as the first of the two versions, so the solo gamer should avoid them in the initial stages. 2. You must commit your ideas for Blue to writing before you read Red’s briefing. This is more important than it might at first seem. With the best will in the world it is all too easy to make slight adjustments to your ideas once you know what the other side is doing. Also you will be missing out on a large and interesting part of the exercise. It is one thing to have an idea of what you want to do, and quite another to frame your ideas in such a way that they are clear to others. You will get much more out of the exercise if you are quite rigorous with yourself about this. 3. Details. It is not enough to say “I will send some troops to Karsdorf”. Whether you send too few or too many will depend upon your appreciation of the situation, but you will usually have to make a decision before you have all of the information that you would like. 4. As the umpire you are meant to be impartial once you have both sets of orders. This will not be very easy since you are responsible for one set, but do try! 5. You will probably find that you cannot get very far into the game as a solo player before it gets like trying to play yourself at chess. There is not much one can do about this. You may be able to devise ways of using dice to determine what commanders do when the game gets beyond the scope of the initial orders, but a general idea of your overall objective and initial plan should be kept in mind. 6. Remember that the commanders do not see everything that you see. Do not let them respond to situations that they are not aware of.
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Combat Decisions Reisswitz gives a complete system for resolving combat decisions according to a system of odds. These scenarios have been designed specifically to be used with his rules, and almost all events that can occur will be covered in the main rules.
Meckel’s Map Meckel’s map is designed for games with quite small forces and actually gives more detail than you are likely to get on any modelled terrain. If you look carefully you will see that small screes are sometimes marked, and that sometimes a sunken road is indicated. You should assume this detail is included because it has some significance, though, of course, what is insurmountable to one set of troops, such as artillery, may be no more than a minor nuisance to others, or a defensive feature to yet another. Any obstacle of ground should be taken into account in an attack, especially for cavalry. For the Napoleonic period you have to ignore the railway line. You will find the towns and villages have an outer perimeter marked. This indicates hedges, fences and small walls etc. and is counted as ‘light defences’. It is the position which skirmishers would normally take up in defence, with the core of the unit in close order either side of the centre of the village or outside it on the far side. I assumed that the main rivers, Die Selz and Der Wettern, are quite wide and can only be crossed by bridge, but that most others are small streams which can be forded in most places, but which impose particular delays for wagons and artillery. They all count as obstacles of ground, of course. Apart from the main bridges we should assume that the smaller ones will cause some delay to a column because it will have to change from column of sections to column of half sections to get across.
Demonstration Games For demonstration games which involve members of the public it is a good idea to start the game at a point just before the two sides come into contact. The briefing will then include an order of march and route for both sides. The point of entry for the players will be something like, “It is now 10.00am and the head of your column has reached this point. You see coming towards you a messenger from the advance patrol’. The messenger, of course, has some report which will require a fairly rapid response, and as soon as the actual message has been handed to the player the clock starts ticking for him. This cuts out long delays while the players think out their initial orders and the umpire has to ‘ad lib’ desperately to keep the spectators interested. The first two scenarios are particularly suitable for this approach.
Basic March Rates Per Two Minutes Reisswitz lists these as follows: 200 paces
March rate for infantry March rate for mixed columns Walk for cavalry
250 paces
Infantry and foot artillery in action
400 paces
Trot and walk for cavalry Skirmishers deploying or infantry units running to occupy a position 12 pounder batteries advancing to fire
600 paces
Trot for cavalry and horse artillery Foot artillery in exceptional cases
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800 paces
Gallop for cavalry and horse artillery Charge for heavy cavalry Adjutants and orderlies with messages and orders
900 paces
Charge for light cavalry from trot and gallop
1. The umpire if free to modify these rates according to ground conditions or other factors as he sees fit. 2. Infantry should only be allowed the faster rate for specific purposes and not more than one turn in three. 3. Cavalry in a mixed column will walk. On their own and covering a long distance they will normally go at trot and walk. Even so after 40 moves at trot and walk they should make 20 at walk only. After 10 moves at trot they should go 5 at walk. 4. Strictly speaking one should allow for rest periods on long marches. Something like ten minutes in every hour, with an hour rest after three hours march.
Changes in Formation Troops will make changes in formation as quickly as possible, especially on the battlefield, but some time must be allowed for them to do this. Similarly so for a unit changing its frontage. A battalion line stretches for nearly a quarter of a mile and will not change front simply with a gigantic wheel to left or right. If a unit has to change formation or front in the presence of the enemy it could be something of an embarrassment, and the umpire could use some kind of surprise test if there is any doubt about whether they could do it in time or not.
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OPERATION ORDERS A German Operation Order
2nd CAV. DIV
DIV HDQRS.F., 6/2/15 7.22
Division Order for the 7th Feb.
Distribution. 1. Advanced Guard MajGen. D. 1st Cav.Bde. Engineer Field Troop. 2. Main body in order of march. H.A.Bde. 3rd Cav.Bde. Lt. Amm.Col.
1. Hostile troops of all arms have this morning arrived in the neighbourhood of B. 2. The division will retire on the north bank of river D. to-morrow. 3. One reconnoitring squadron will be detailed by each bridgade: 1st Cav. Bde. Zone W-X, 2nd Cav.Bde. zone U-V, 3rd Cav.Bde. Zone P-Q These squadrons will cross the line A-B at 6.15 a.m. 4. The advanced guard will advance to D. by way of M. 5. The main body will follow the advanced guard at 1,000 metres, and will be drawn up in order of march at the cross-roads immediately east of M at 7 a.m. 6. The second-line transport of the advanced guard will assemble by the brick-kiln south of M. at 7.30 a.m. Road clear. That of the main body will follow the troops at 4 kilometres. 7. I am riding with the main body of the advanced guard. (Signed) X., Major-General.
The sample Operation Order shown above is taken from the Dictionary of English & German Military Terms edited by Captain C.F.Atkinson, 1915. The same system is used in Letters on Applied Tactics by Major-General Greipenkerl in the 1880’s. He gives an explanation and general guidance on framing orders which are so relevant to the game that I give a paraphrase of them here.
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Operation Orders Operation Orders are orders from the commanding officer which deal with strategic and tactical operations such as marches, protection, reconnaissance and battle.
Sequence of Orders The orders should be set out in a logical sequence, the precise order of which may vary with circumstances, but which, in general are in paragraph order as follows: 1. Information as to the enemy and our own other forces. 2. The intention of the commander in the most general terms, with distribution of forces in the margin. 3. Orders for the advanced guard. Time of starting, assembly point, route to be followed, reconnoitring and any special duties to be performed. 4. Orders for the main body. Either the distance to be preserved between it and the advanced guard or place and time of departing. Order of march in the margin. 5. Any orders for the flank guard. As for 3. as a rule, but special mention of any reconnoitring duties. Sometimes the point at which the flank guard will be detached. 6. Orders for outposts. Instructions as to how they are to join the column of route (Ed. This is something which is not normally asked for in Kriegsspiel) 7. Order for the second line transports and supply column. The distance to be preserved between it and the main body or any special arrangements. 8. The position of the commanding officer. If the cavalry is not attached to the advanced guard or main body, but rather is constituted as an independent cavalry force it would appear as no.1 in the distribution list in the margin, and ‘Orders for Cavalry’ would appear in paragraph 3 of the orders, with orders for the advanced guard becoming 4. etc.
Notes on Writing Orders Before Writing 1 Read the briefing. 2 Study the ground under consideration either the full scale map or the index map – whichever is allowed. Note the scale. 3 Assess the situation. “Imagine, for instance, that you are in command, halting at the place mentioned in the data, surrounded by your staff. You must now see the troops in formation on the country before you, your own as well as the enemy’s. The more vividly you imagine, the better will be your tactical work. Be clear about what your orders are. How are you to act in order to carry out your superiors’ intentions?” 4 When dealing with movements of troops work out the time needed to march, not only for your own troops, but for the enemy as well. 5 Consider the counter-measures likely to be adopted by the enemy. Remember that he may be moving as well, and that he is most likely to do that which you will like the least. 6 Arrive at a definite decision. Are you to act offensively or defensively? Are you to contain the enemy, or avoid him altogether? No half measures. Be clear what you intend to do and carry it out with determination. 7 Consider the distribution of your troops. Check that you have disposed of all the troops allotted to you. Sometimes a briefing assumes that you are writing your orders the night before they are to be put into operation, and have, therefore, plenty of time to think about them. Sometimes the briefing puts you in the middle of a situation which calls for a fairly rapid response. In the latter cause you may have to issue some orders almost instantaneously and then take some time to work out what is to follow.
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The Actual Written Orders a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g) h)
Each set of orders should be logically arranged. Deviate from the model when there is need to. Break up orders into numbered paragraphs and put everything into one paragraph relating to one subject, giving precedence to the most important matter. Each order should be as short as possible. Shorter sentences are easier to understand. Experience shows that wordy orders are usually abbreviated by those for whom they are intended, which may well result in alteration in their sense. Reasons for a given disposition have no place in the orders since if they are well put together they will justify themselves. Each order should be clear and intelligible. ‘It is as well to consider the question: What knowledge can the recipient have of the general situation? Will he understand my point of view from the wording of the order? Terms which are easily misunderstood since their significance depends on the point of view – such as “right, left, in front of’ etc should be avoided. Replace them with points of the compass, but avoid intermediate points such as S.S.W. Roads should be indicated by two points – “The road from Verny to Metz”. If the intention is to march towards Metz. “The southern outlet of Verny”, if there is only one, but “The outlet towards X” if there are more.’ Do not use uncertain terms. An ambiguous order is loosely carried out. Avoid “as far as possible”, “as well as you can”, for the commander must accept responsibility and shift none of it onto the shoulders of the subordinate. It will be reprehensible in the drawing up of an order to choose an ill-defined or ambiguous expression under which to hide ones own indecision. The order should not trespass on the province of the subordinate. Your order should not contain details which the subordinate will be better placed to work out for himself from being on the spot. In practice you can interfere if the subordinate is making an error which will jeopardise the attainment of the object you have in view. The orders should not try to arrange anything too far in advance. Elaborate directions for various hypothetical cases are to be avoided. It is possible that one of these cases may occur, but it is just as likely that something unforeseen may happen, leaving the subordinate uncertain, now, of what should be done. On the other had it is nearly always important for the subordinate to recognise clearly the general object aimed at by the order, so that they themselves may be able to strive to attain it if the general situation demands a procedure different from that originally directed. (The difficult aspect of giving orders dealt with here is giving the subordinate a clear enough idea of the intention, so that he can use his initiative in a changing situation without trying to prescribe details in advance which could end up hindering the subordinate’s initiative. There is obviously no harm in the commander trying to foresee some of the possible responses of the enemy, but he does not have to burden the troop leaders with them.) Particulars of time and place should be exactly given. Underline the opening words of each paragraph to emphasise them.
You will agree, if you have read these notes, that there is quite a lot to writing clear but brief orders. I have done my best with the orders for Red, but I would not claim them to be any kind of model, either in form or content.
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Scenario One An Attack on a Column General idea: The map shows part of Blue territory which has been invaded by a Red Army from the South. The Red army has reached Mokra. The main Blue army is to the north of Mokra.
Separate Report for Red The Red detachment is marching with a column of supplies to join the army at Mokra. There has been no information of any enemy troops south of Mokra. The detachment reached Hohenau on the 20th of April. Strength as shown in the distribution column. Detachment commander General Major Dannehauer. Advanced Guard commander Oberst v. Pirsch
Detachment Orders for the 21st April
Distribution Advanced Guard v. Pirsch 1 Bn. Jäger 1 Sqn. Uhlan Horse Battery Main Body Gen.Maj. Dannhauer. 1 Sqns Uhlan 2 Sqn Hussars* IX Regt. Foot Battery VII Regt.
1. No reports of enemy forces have been received, but everyone is reminded that we are marching through enemy territory. 2. The detachment will march from Hohenau to Mokra via Tiefenzell. 3. The advanced guard will be ready to march at 6.30 am with an advanced patrol. 4. The main body will follow at an interval of 2000 paces (1 mile). One squadron of the main body Hussars will provide flanking patrols. Left flank troops across country towards Die Kamphof – Hohenzell – Seedorf. Right flank patrols – Altschloss – Die Eichen wald – Sildauer – Buk. 5. Trains will follow the main body at 200 paces. 6. I shall ride at the head of the mainbody.
Dannhauer. Gen-Maj
*1 Sqn as flank guards
Situation at 10.00am for Red Delays due to recent storms have meant that the main body has only just reached Tiefenzell. The left flank reports from Hohenzell that no enemy have been seen. Riders can be seen approaching from the direction of the advanced guard and from the direction is Sildauer. The actual messages are given in part three (see page 33)
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Scenario One An Attack on a Column General idea: The map shows part of Blue territory which has been invaded by a Red army from the south. The Red army has reached Mokra. The main Blue army is to the north of Mokra.
Separate Report for Blue The Blue detachment has been sent to stop an enemy column believed to be making its way towards Mokra on the main Hohenau – Mokra road. It reached Tiefenthal on the 20th April and discovered from inhabitants that the enemy column could be expected to have reached Hohenau on the same day. Orders have been written for 21st April. Detachment commander v. Vinke. Advanced guard, v. Schmidt.
Detachment orders for 21st April.
Distribution Advanced Guard v. Schmidt. 3 Sqns. Uhlans 1 sqn Hussars 1 Bn. Jäger Horse Battery Main Body Gen.Maj. v. Vinke. 3 Sqns Hussars (less three troops for recce) 1 Bn. Jäger V Regt. VI Regt. Foot Battery
1. The enemy column is believed to be en route for Mokra from Hohenau today (21st April). 2. The detachment will march towards Tiefenzell. 3. The advanced guard will set out at 6.30 am via Schönkirche and Sildauer. 4. The main body will follow at an interval of 500 paces. 5. Small patrols from the main body Hussars will reconnoitre: 1. Gut Waldau 2. Altschloss 3. Tiefenzell 6. The reserve ammunition train will follow the main body at 500 paces. The rest of the baggage will follow 200 paces behind it. 7. I shall ride with the advanced guard as far as Sildauer, and from there with the main body.
von Vinke
Situation at 10.00 am for Blue Unexpected delays have meant that the advanced guard is only just approaching the Sildauer crossing. Patrols have reported that Gut Althof is clear, as is the road to Altschloss. The advanced guard can see some enemy cavalry half a mile South East of Sildauer. Messengers can be seen riding from Tiefenzell and Muhlbachshof. See page 33 for the actual messages.
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Scenario Two An Attack on a Column II General idea: The map shows part of Red territory. A Blue army has arrived at Wollstein from the West. The main Red army is about twenty miles to the north at Wildunger.
Separate Report for Red Reports have reached HQ of an enemy column marching from the direction of Torgau on the Torgau-Wollstein road. A Red detachment has been sent South with orders to prevent this column reaching Wollstein. The Red detachment has reached Sildauer late on the 10th of March. There is a lot of excited talk in the taverns of hundreds of enemy Hussars around Tiefenzell earlier in the day. A squadron of Hussars has been sent to Tiefenzell to take up quarters for the night and make reports on any enemy troops seen. So far they have reported that the area is clear. Orders are required for the detachment’s march tomorrow from 6.30 am 11th March. Detachment commander, Oberst v. Budritzki Advanced guard, Hauptmann v. Zaloskowski Red Force
2 Sdns Uhlans 3 Sqns Hussars* 1 Bn. Jägers V Regt. (3 bns) VI Regt. (3 bns) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) 1 Foot battery (6 pdr) Reserve ammunition column (a quarter mile in length) Baggage train (one mile in length) *1 Squadron at Tiefenzell.
Operation orders for Red are provided in Part III. The Scenario is practically identical to Scenario One and could be treated in the same way for a demonstration game.
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Scenario Two An Attack on a Column II General idea: The map shows part of Red territory. A Blue army has arrived at Wollstein from the west. The main Red army is about twenty miles to the north at Wildunger.
Separate Report for Blue
Your detachment reached Torgau on the 10th of March. Your orders are to join up with the Blue Army at Wollstein. A few cavalry patrols were sent out as far as Karsdorf and Tiefenzell earlier in the day but they saw no sign of enemy troops. They returned to Torgau. Detachment orders for the 11th march 6.30 am are required. Detachment commander, OberstLeutnant v. Essen Advanced guard, Hauptmann v. Griesham Blue Force
3 Sdns Uhlans 3 Sqns Hussars* 1 Bn. Jägers IX Regt. (3 bns) VII Regt. (3 bns) 1 Foot battery (6 pdr) 1 Company of Pioneers Baggage train (one mile in length)
Note. Blue can send up to one squadron with orders, as an outpost, as far as Karsdorf or Die Kamhof this evening.
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Scenario Three Flank Detachments General idea: The area shows Red territory. A Red army has been forced back by a superior Blue army from the East. It has fallen back on the ancient town of Steinau. The Blue army is between Zobigker and Selchen and is expected to strike tomorrow. A Blue detachment has occupied Neu Goldberg today.
Separate Report for Red The Red commander has been entrusted with a small force to cover the flank of the main army and to reconnoitre the ground between Gross Hagen and Neu Goldberg. The bridges at Kippringen and Nennweiler-Karsdorf have been destroyed, and the river (Die Selz) is not fordable. His force is being assembled at Gross Hagen this evening.
Orders
Orders are required for 6.00 am tomorrow, the 22nd June Detachment commander, Oberst v. Dietrich Subordinate commander, Pr.-Lt v. Herwarth Red Force
3 Sdns Dragoons 1 Sqn Hussars 1 Bn. Jägers V Regt. (3 bns) 1 Foot battery (6 pdr) Reserve ammunition Column (a quarter mile in length) Baggage train (three-quarters of a mile in length)
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Scenario Three Flank Detachments General idea: The area shows Red territory. A Red army has been forced back by a superior Blue army from the East. It has fallen back on the ancient town of Steinau. The Blue army is between Zobigker and Selchen and is expected to strike tomorrow. A Blue detachment has occupied Neu Goldberg today.
Separate Report for Blue Your detachment reached Neu Goldberg today from Zobigker. The bridges at Kippringen and the Nennweiler-Karsdorf crossing were found to be destroyed. Die Selz is un-fordable to all troops. Some enemy patrols were seen on the West bank of Die Selz around the Kippringen area. Your orders are to support the attack tomorrow with an attack on the enemy flank through Gross Hagen.
Orders
Orders are required for 6.00 am tomorrow, the 22nd June Detachment commander, Oberst v. Trotha Subordinate commander, Hauptmann v. Zimmermann Blue Force
3 Sdns Uhlans 2 Sqns Hussars 1 Bn. Jägers V Regt. (3 bns) VI Regt. (3 bns) 1 Foot battery (6 pdr) Ammunition train (quarter of a mile in length) Baggage train (half a mile in length)
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Scenario Four A Bridging Party General idea: The land East of Die Selz is Blue territory. That to the West is Red. Hostilities have recently broken out between the two countries, but mainly to the North. A Blue Division has arrived at Torgau. The nearest Red Division is some thirty miles north of Wollstein. There is a small Red detachment in the area.
Separate Report for Red The Red detachment is at Gross Hagen. The bridges at Kippringer and Nennweiler-Karsdorf have been destroyed, but not the one at Neu Goldberg. During the day patrols from our side of the river could see the enemy troops examining the destroyed bridges and moving North. Later a dust cloud East of Kippringen indicated a strong column, maybe a mile long, moving towards Neu Goldberg.
Orders for Red This evening you received the following message from red headquarters.
My dear von Redern I must instruct you that the presence of what reports suggest to be a significant Blue force in your area is of some concern to me. I would instruct you to do all you can to hinder any attempts that they may make to cross Die Selz and capture Wollstein. We anticipate that the Blue division will probably make a move on the morrow, possibly to throw a pontoon bridge across the river near Kippringen. I must ask you to do all you can to preserve the integrity of our territory! Yours with fraternal greetings Von Blindersdorf. GeneralOberst
Orders are required for 6.00am tomorrow, the 8th of May. Detachment commander, Oberst v. Redern Subordinate commander, Hauptmann v. Hoffmann Red Force
1 Sdn Uhlans 2 Sqn Hussars IX Regt. (3 bns) VII Regt. (3 bns) 1 Foot battery (12 pdr) 1 Company of Pioneers Ammunition train (quarter of a mile in length)
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Scenario Four A Bridging Party General idea: The land East of Die Selz is Blue territory. That to the West is Red. Hostilities have recently broken out between the two countries, but mainly to the North. A Blue Division has arrived at Torgau. The nearest Red Division is some thirty miles north of Wollstein. There is a small Red detachment in the area.
Separate Report for Blue The Divisional Headquarters has ordered that Blue detachment to secure a bridgehead across the river. Patrols discovered that the bridges at Kippringen and Karsdorf had been destroyed, but the bridge at Neu Goldberg was still intact. The detachment then moved to Neu Goldberg and reported back to HQ. The only enemy seen were some cavalry patrols on the other side of the river.
Orders for Blue HQ has decided that rather than make a detour through Neu Goldberg they will send a pontoon train ahead via Karsdorf. It will arrive at the river at 9.00am about one hour ahead of the Division. It will take about 40 minutes for the bridging team to complete their work of they do not come under fire. The Blue detachment is to make sure that the work is not hindered from the West bank. Orders are required for 6.00am tomorrow, the 8th of May. Detachment commander, Oberst v. Tschischwitz Subordinate commander, Hauptmann v. Decker Blue Force
2 Sqns Hussars 1 bn. Jäger V Regt. (3 bns) VI Regt. (3 bns) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) 1 Company of Pioneers Ammunition train (quarter of a mile in length) Wagons with bridging equipment (1 mile in length)
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Scenario Five Reconnaisance & Battle General idea: The map represents Red territory. Blue is invading from the South. Patrols came into contact today around Nennweiler.
Separate Report for Red A strong detachment arrived at Silberberg today. Small patrols were sent out towards Die Selz. The road to Neu Goldberg was reported to be clear, but strong enemy posts around Nennweiler indicate that the enemy has already secured a bridgehead on the main road crossing. Some locals from Nennweiler report thousands of troops around Nennweiler and Kippringen. The Red commander has decided to attack the Blue Army tomorrow. The Red force is still at Silberberg this evening.
Orders for Red
Orders are required for 6.00am tomorrow, the 3rd of July. Detachment commander, GeneralMajor v. Blumenthal Subordinate commander, Obert v. Barby Red Force
4 Sqns Uhlans 4 Sqns Hussars 1 bn. Jäger V Regt. (3 bns) VII Regt. (3 bns) IX Regt. (3 bns) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) 1 Foot battery (12 pdr) Ammunition train (half a mile in length) Baggage train (2 miles in length)
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Scenario Five Reconnaisance & Battle General idea: The map represents Red territory. Blue is invading from the South. Patrols came into contact today around Nennweiler.
Separate Report for Blue The detachment has been sent to occupy Silberberg which was believed to be wide open. The rest of the Division is to follow in a day or two. As the detachment was completing its crossing this evening enemy cavalry patrols were seen North-West of Nennweiler by our own cavalry. An attack seems likely tomorrow. This evening one battalion of V Regiment occupies Nennweiler, the cavalry are camped South-East of it. The rest of the detachment are bivouaced just West of the crossing. The baggage wagons are still on the East side of Die Selz.
Orders for Blue
Orders are required for 6.00am tomorrow, the 3rd of July. Detachment commander, Major v. Kameke Subordinate commander, Hauptmann v. Schwarzhoff Blue Force
2 Sqns Uhlans 2 Sqns Hussars 2 bns. Jäger V Regt. (3 bns) VI Regt. (3 bns) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) 1 Foot battery (6 pdr) 1 Coy. Pioneers Ammunition train (a quarter of a mile in length) Baggage train (One and an half miles in length)
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Scenario Six Reconnaisance & Battle II General idea: The map represents part of Red territory. A battle yesterday around Nennweiler resulted in a defeat for Blue forces.
Separate Report for Red Thousands of prisoners have been taken and the rest of Blue forces are scattered. The Red force has become, to some extent, scattered in pursuit. Uhlans report that one or two enemy battalions with some artillery have managed to keep together in an organised retreat towards Tiefenzell. The Red Command-in-Chief is at Klein Brunau. At 10.00 am he receives the following report:
9.50 am, 4th July, 1813 Die Kamphofe A strong enemy column has been reported by my troopers. It is approaching Kroppen from Hohenau. Estimated Brigade strength. Pr. Lt von Rheinbaben 3rdUhlans
Orders for Red Orders are required immediately. Detachment commander, GeneralMajor v. Blumenthal Subordinate commander, Oberst v. Barby (at Klein Brunau) Red Force & Position 2 Sqns Uhlans Hohenzell 1 Sqn Uhlans Die Kamphofe 1 Sqn Uhlans Waldhofe 2 Sqns Hussars Selchen-Zobigker* 1 Sqn Hussars Klein Brunau ½ bn. Jäger Karsdorf V Regt. (3 bns) Grossmau VII Regt. (2 bns) Karsdorf IX Regt. (2 bns) Klein Brunau 1 Foot battery (6 pdr) Karsdorf Headquarters Klein Brunau *Will take an hour to assemble at Zobigker or Selchen Apart from the Hussars the rest of the units are not too dispersed, but the umpire may allow some time for them to be ready to march.
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Scenario Six Reconnaisance & Battle II General idea: The map represents part of Red territory. A battle yesterday around Nennweiler resulted in a defeat for Blue forces.
Separate Report for Blue
You were to have joined the 1st Blue Brigade at Silberberg – it had been believed that there were no Red troops in the area. You were acquainted with the news of defeat this morning when you came across a group of fleeing troops. You are at the head of the main body which has just reached Kroppen. The advanced guard will be half a mile ahead, about to turn off for Hohenzell and the Karsdorf. A forward patrol has reported Red Uhlans in the Hohezell-Tiefenzell area, and another patrol has reported Uhlans in die Kamphofe. Presumably the enemy are in pursuit of Blue troops.
Orders for Blue Orders, and an order of march for the advanced guard and main body, are required immediately. Detachment commander, Oberst v. Schulz Subordinate commander, Hauptmann v. Koblinski Blue Force
2 Sqns Uhlans 1 Sqn Hussars 1 bn. Jäger VII Regt. (2 bns) VIII Regt. (2 bns) 1 Foot battery (12 pdr) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) Ammunition train (a quarter of a mile in length) Baggage train (One mile in length)
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Scenario Seven The Convoy General idea: The map represents part of Red territory which is under attack from a Blue army from the West. Blue’s army is marching on the garrison town of Grunberg on the WollsteinWildunger road. On the 2nd of September it is some 15 miles West of Wollstein.
Separate Report for Red Grunberg is low on supplies. A supply train has been assembled at Randow which your detachment is to escort to Grunberg. The supply train, together with the detachment wagons, stretches about four miles on the road. News reached you this evening that an enemy detachment has reached Alt Goldberg. The Grunberg garrison is only able to send one battalion from the V Regiment which will arrive at Sildauer, although quite when that will happen is uncertain.
Orders for Red
Orders are required for 6.00 am tomorrow, the 3rd of September Detachment commander, Oberst v. Kessel Subordinate commander, Hauptmann Lindow Red Force
3 Sqns Uhlans 3 Sqn Hussars 1 bn. Jäger III Regt. (3 bns) 1 Foot battery (12 pdr) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) Detachment wagons (three-quarters of a mile in length) Supply train (Three miles in length) 1 Btn V Regt. (in Grunberg)
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Scenario Seven The Convoy General idea: The map represents part of Red territory which is under attack from a Blue army from the West. Blue’s army is marching on the garrison town of Grunberg on the WollsteinWildunger road. On the 2nd of September it is some 15 miles West of Wollstein.
Separate Report for Blue Grunberg is believed to be low on supplies. Your detachment has been sent to cut off communication with Grunberg from the South. You have arrived at Alt Goldberg on the 2nd of September. Agents report that an enemy supply train has been gathering at Randow with an escort. It is reported to still be there today, but it could be on the move tomorrow. The supply train is likely to be three or four miles long.
Orders for Blue
Orders are required for 6.00 am tomorrow, the 3rd of September Detachment commander, Oberst v. Arnim Subordinate commander, Hauptmann Neumann Blue Force
3 Sqns Dragoons 3 Sqn Hussars VII Regt. (3 bns) VIII Regt. (3 bns) 1 Foot battery (6 pdr) 1 Coy. Pioneers Baggage train (half a mile in length)
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Scenario Eight The Convoy II General idea: The map shows part of Red territory. A Blue army has advanced from the South East and occupied Lenka. It is expected to come under attack from the North.
Separate Report for Red The Red detachment has reached Zobigker today from Driburg. Local gossip has it that an enormous column of supplies has reached Kroppen today. A few enemy Hussars have been seen at Waldhof. Patrols report that Die Gurnau appears easily fordable at most places but could cause delays for wagons or guns. The detachment has been ordered to cut Lenka off from any help from the South.
Orders for Red
Orders are required for 6.00 am tomorrow, the 14th of August Detachment commander, Oberst Graf v. Falkenstein Subordinate commander, Hauptmann Bauer Red Force
3 Sqns Dragoons 2 Sqn Hussars 1 bn. Jägers IX Regt. (3 bns) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) Detachment wagons (half a mile in length) Supply train (Three miles in length)
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Scenario Eight The Convoy II General idea: The map shows part of Red territory. A Blue army has advanced from the South East and occupied Lenka. It is expected to come under attack from the North.
Separate Report for Blue
Supplies for Lenka have reached Kroppen on the 13th of August with an escort. A squadron of Hussars sent forward to Tiefenzell report that the road to Lenka appears to be clear but a scouting troops at Waldhof reports a strong enemy detachment at Zobigker.
Orders for Blue
Orders are required for 6.00 am tomorrow, the 14th of August Detachment commander, Oberst v. Herwarth Subordinate commander, Hauptmann Grolmann Blue Force
3 Sqns Uhlans 3 Sqn Hussars* 1 bn. Jägers V Regt. (3 bns) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) 1 Foot battery (6 pdr) Detachment wagons (half a mile in length) Supply train (Three and a half miles in length) *1 Sqn at Tiefenzell, 1 Troop at Waldhof on the 13th.
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Scenario Nine Advanced Guard General idea: A Blue force is invading Red territory from the North East. The Red Division is at Rosslau.
Separate Report for Red The Red detachment has already fallen back towards Sildauer in the face if superior enemy forces. The commander receives the following orders from Divisional HQ this evening:
The Division is advancing to Nennweiler. The detachment should continue its retreat, delaying the enemy as much as possible without getting seriously engaged, falling back across Die Selz and keeping Division informed of the enemy advance.
The main thrust of the Blue force came from Seldorf and Rossberg. Enemy cavalry are reported this evening at Tiefenthal, Abthof and Wittendorf. There is a Squadron of Hussars this evening in Schonkirch, the rest of the Red detachment are at Saildauer. The commander has to get his force away safely while at the same time holding up the enemy with a rearguard. As much of the cavalry as can be spared, together with the horse battery, should be assigned to the rear guard. Cavalry will have to maintain contact with the main body as well as with the enemy.
Orders for Red
Orders are required for the rear guard and the main body for 6.00am tomorrow, the 18th of August. The train may start out at 5.30am. Detachment commander, Oberst Bronsart v. Schellendorf Rear Guard commander, Pr.Lt. v. Kalbacher Red Force
2 Sqns Uhlans 2 Sqn Hussars 1 bn. Jägers VI Regt. (3 bns) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) 1 Coy. Pioneers* Train (One miles in length)
*Pioneers will need one hour preparation for bridge destruction, but the crossing at Sildauer itself seems to be more like a sewer pipe running under the main square, and not a bridge as such.
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Scenario Nine Advanced Guard General idea: A Blue force is invading Red territory from the North East. The Red Division is at Rosslau.
Separate Report for Blue You are the spearhead of the Blue advance. The main Blue force is about fifteen miles behind you. The Red troops who were last reported at Seldorf have retreated in the direction of Sildauer. Cavalry patrols have reached Tiefenthal, Abtshof and Wittendorf. They report the road to be clear. Your main column has halted today on the Seldorf road at the crossroads about a mile out from the Schonkirk. You have reason to believe that the enemy detachment is weaker than your own.
Orders for Blue
Orders are required for 6.00am tomorrow, the 18th of August Detachment commander, Oberst v. Herwarth Subordinate commander, Hauptmann Grolmann Blue Force
4 Sqns Dragoons 3 Sqn Hussars VII Regt. (3 bns) VIII Regt. (3 bns) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) 1 Foot battery (6 pdr) 1 Coy. Pioneers plus bridge train* Ammunition train (half a mile in length) Baggage train (Two miles in length)
*Allow half an hour for a pontoon bridge to be built across the smaller streams on the map provided the Pioneers do not come under fire. Most of these small streams are fordable by infantry and cavalry, but guns and wagons will be delayed. On the canal sections troops can wade across but the steep banks are an insurmountable obstacle to guns and wagons.
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Scenario Ten Advanced Guard II General idea: The map shows part of Blue territory. A Red army is invading from the North West. The main Blue army is at Altschloss. The main Red army is about one day’s march West of Wollstein.
Separate Report for Red You are the advanced guard of the Red Divisions which are a day’s march from Wollstein. Your advanced units came into contact with enemy forces this morning, but the enemy has now fallen back in the direction of Silberberg. This evening your main body is camped at Neuhof. The advanced guard of the detachment has reached Silberberg and has reported that it is clear of enemy troops, indeed there are signs that they left in a hurry. The roads through Silber Forst are reported to be clear.
Orders for Red Your instructions are to proceed towards the enemy position, clearing a path for the main army and carrying out reconnaissance on a broad front. Orders are now required for the advanced guard and main body for 6.00am tomorrow, the 21st of October. Detachment commander, GeneralMajor v. Tiedmann Subordinate commander, Hauptmann v. Thile Red Forces
4 Sqns Uhlans 3 Sqn Hussars 1 bn. Jäger VI Regt. (3 bns) IX Regt. (3 bns) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) 1 Foot battery (12 pdr) Ammunition train (quarter of a mile in length) Baggage train (Two miles in length) Pontoon train and Pioneers (half a mile in length)*
*if it becomes necessary to build a pontoon bridge it will take from 40 minutes to 1½ hours and work will have to stop if the Pioneers come under fire. Yesterday’s patrols confirmed that there were no enemy troops north of Die Sellheimer Flusse or West of the area covered by the Meckel Map.
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Scenario Ten Advanced Guard II General idea: The map shows part of Blue territory. A Red army is invading from the North West. The main Blue army is at Altschloss. The main Red army is about one day’s march West of Wollstein.
Separate Report for Blue You are the advanced guard of the Blue Army. You received orders yesterday to fall back towards the main army which is advancing towards Tiefenzell. You are to cause as much delay as possible to the advancing enemy without becoming involved in an action which you cannot extricate yourself from. Forward elements of your detachment came into contact with the enemy this morning around Neuhof just as they had received orders to fall back to Silberberg. This evening your forces are assembled around Altstedten. Apart from Die Selz the rivers and streams are all fordable but could cause delay for guns and wagons. An hour’s preparation is needed for half a company of pioneers to blow up a bridge. The main bridges are beautiful examples of renaissance stonework.
Orders for Blue
Orders are required for the main body and rearguard for 6.00am tomorrow, the 21st of October. Detachment commander, Hauptmann v. Tschischwitz Subordinate commander, Hauptmann v. Monsterberg Blue Forces
3 Sqns Dragoons 2 Sqn Hussars 1 bn. Jäger VII Regt. (3 bns) VIII Regt. (1 bn) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) Ammunition train (quarter of a mile in length) Baggage train (Two miles in length) One company of Pioneers
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Scenario Eleven Advanced Guard Encounter General idea: The map shows Blue territory. A Red Division has reached Hirtinhofe from the West. It is expected to be joined by another Division from the direction of Torgau.
Separate Report for Red
On the 28th May the advanced guard has reached Karsdorf. Cavalry patrols sent out to Kippringen and Klein Brunau have reported seeing small enemy patrols. Another sent to the Nennweiler crossing reports that the bridge is intact with no sign of enemy troops. The bridge at Kippringen is also intact. As a precaution against sabotage a company of Jäger has been sent to each crossing this evening. The proposed route for the Division is TorgauNennweiler-Altstedten, then North via Neu Sellheim. The head of the Divisional column is not expected at Karsdorf until noon tomorrow. The detachment commander has decided he will send only a small patrol along the proposed route and remain in the area to protect the flank of the Division and its crossing. He has sent a report of the situation to Divisional HQ. An attack is expected tomorrow.
Orders for Red
Orders are required for 6.00am tomorrow, the 29th of May. Detachment commander, Oberst Schmalz Subordinate commander, Pr.Lt v. Bulow Red Forces
1 Sqn Uhlans 2 Sqn Hussars* 1 bn. Jäger* VI Regt. (3 bns) 1 Horse battery (6 pdr) 1 Foot battery (12 pdr) Baggage train (One mile in length) Pontoon train and Pioneers (half a mile in length)
*Half battalion of Jägers and three quarters of one squadron of Hussars are posted at Kippringen, Klein Brunau and Nennweiler crossings this evening
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Scenario Eleven Advanced Guard Encounter General idea: The map shows Blue territory. A Red Division has reached Hirtinhofe from the West. It is expected to be joined by another Division from the direction of Torgau.
Separate Report for Blue A Blue detachment has been sent south from the direction of grunberg with orders to occupy Karsdorf, which lies on the probable route of the Red Division, and do what it can to stop the enemy reaching Hirtinhofe. Reports to Grunberg. On the 28th May the detachment has reached Tiefenzell and sent out patrols towards Karsdorf. The Red advance guard seems to have reached Karsdorf already and there are some troops at Kippringen and Klein Brunau.
Orders for Red
Orders are required for 6.00am tomorrow, the 29th of May. Detachment commander, Oberst Freiherr von Manteuffel Subordinate commander, Pr.Lt v.d. Golz Blue Forces
3 Sqns Uhlans 2 Sqn Hussars 1 bn. Jäger VII Regt. (3 bns) VIII Regt. (3 bns) 1 Foot battery (12 pdr) 1 Coy. Pioneers Ammunition train (Three quarters of a mile in length) Baggage train (one and an half a miles in length)
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Scenario Twelve A Flank March General idea: The country to the East of Die Selz is Blue territory. That to the West is Red. A Red force has made a march from Wollstein via Mokra, reaching Tesin on the 22nd of March. A battle is expected in the Grunberg-Tiefenthal area on the 23rd.
Separate Report for Red
Your detachment arrived at Nennweiler on the 22nd via Rosslau with order to support the Red attack via Tiefenzell. No Blue patrols have been seen on their side of the river – probably because all available troops have been sent to Grunberg. Bridges are intact.
Orders for Red
Orders are required for 6.00am tomorrow, the 23rd of March. Detachment commander, Oberst v. Knappstadt Subordinate commander, Pr.Lt v.d. Schulenberg-Wolfsburg Red Forces
2 Sqns Dragoons 2 Sqn Hussars 1 bn. Jäger VI Regt. (3 bns) IX Regt. (3 bns) 1 Foot battery (12 pdr) 1 Coy. Pioneers Baggage train (One and an half miles in length) Ammunition train (Quarter of a mile in length)
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Scenario Twelve A Flank March General idea: The country to the East of Die Selz is Blue territory. That to the West is Red. A Red force has made a march from Wollstein via Mokra, reaching Tesin on the 22nd of March. A battle is expected in the Grunberg-Tiefenthal area on the 23rd.
Separate Report for Blue Your detachment has been ordered to make a march up from Hohenau via Tiefenzell in order to support the Blue force at Grunberg. The Red attack has caused Blue HQ some embarrassment and surprise. All other troops in the area have already been recalled to Grunberg, so there are no Blue patrols watching Die Selz.
Orders for Blue
Orders are required for 6.00am tomorrow, the 23rd of March. Detachment commander, GeneralMajor Kraft Prince zu Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen Subordinate commander, Pr.Lt. Graf zu Eulenberg Blue Forces
2 Sqns Dragoons 2 Sqn Hussars 1 bn. Jäger VII Regt. (3 bns) VIII Regt. (3 bns) 1 Foot battery (12 pdr) Baggage train (One and an half miles in length) Ammunition train (Quarter of a mile in length)
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Scenario One Reports. Handed to Blue at 10.00 am.
From: Right Flank Patrol To: GeneralMajor von Vinke We have reached Gut Waldau without seeing any sign of the enemy.
From: Tiefenzell patrol To: GeneralMajor von Vinke 9.53 am. An enemy column of all arms is approaching Tiefenzell.
Handed to Red at 10.00 am
From: Advanced Guard Commander To: GeneralMajor Dannhauer Enemy cavalry patrols have been seen North East of Tiefenzell.
From: Right Flank Patrol To: GeneralMajor Dannhauer A strong enemy column of all arms can be seen approaching Sildauer. We are . half a mile South East of Sildauer. 9.53 am.
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ORDERS FOR RED As mentioned in the introduction, the idea of this section is to give the reader a chance to undertake some kind of solo games on the map, and practise some umpiring. I have use the Operation Order format as already described. You may use any method you wish, so long as it is clear, but I find this one helpful. Information as to the enemy is clearly optional, since the umpire is already better informed on this than you are, but I have kept it in for form’s sake, and because it makes sure I have not missed anything in the briefing. Orders for outposts rejoining the column are not usually required in the game, and I have omitted these. I have put some orders for reconnaissance in a separate paragraph because the umpire needs to be able to see these clearly. Remember that the umpire has to sort out two sets of orders before he can begin, so clarity without wordiness is important. I have included some notes, supposedly given verbally to a subordinate, to give the reader some clue as to what orders Red might give subsequently. They would not come into the game unless you were explaining your ideas verbally to the umpire. Thoughts about what you might, or might not, do later on are your own affair.
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Scenario One An Attack on a Column Red Orders at 10.00 am. Measures for Protecting the Column 1. IX Regt. Foot battery and Uhlans to the high ground about 1500 paces North East of Tiefenzell. IX Regt. between the two paths, battery on their left, Uhlans by the North West corner of the woods. 10.04. Orders to the Advanced Guard 10.10 1. Uhlans to join the main body. 2. Jägers cross the second bridge beyond Munchshof and take up position on the high ground about 1000 paces beyond the bridge, to the East of the main road. 3. Horse battery to join the Jägers. Orders to Hussars. 10.12 1. Man body Sqn to the high ground about 500 paces North West of Tiefenzell. 2. Left flank Hussars to join the main body Sqn. 3. Right flank Hussars to continue to report on enemy movement. Orders to Column. 10.14 1. VII Regt. lead the column across the first canal bridge. The train is to stay on the canal “island” until it is safe to continue. The VII Regt. to cross the second bridge and join the Jägers. Reports to the commander who will be with the Hussars. To himself, as he waits for more information: ‘Either they will attack us directly from Sildauer, or they will attack from the north side of the canal, or perhaps both at once. If the whole attack is north of the canal the IX Regt., Uhlans and Foot artillery can cross the canal by Mulbach’s Hofe and attack their rear. If the whole attack is from Sildauer the train will leave the island and the IX Regt. and the rest will fight a rearguard action to Munchshof as soon as the rest of the column are safely across. If from both sides I will try to get the train off the island and into Seedorf, while the rearguard fall back to the canal, holding it with one battalion and the battery while the rest join the VII Regt. My next order will be to send a messenger to Mokra in case we have to wait for help.
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Scenario Two An Attack on a Column II Red Operation Order Detachment HQ, Sildauer 7.30pm 10.3.11 Detachment orders for the 11th March Distribution Reconnaissance 1 sqn Hussars Advance Guard v.Herwarth. 1 sqn Dragoons 1 bn V Regt. Main Body v.Dietrich 2 sqns Dragoons 1 bn Jäger 2 bns V Regt. Foot battery .
1. An enemy column is believed to be marching towards Wollstein from Torgau 2. The detachment will march towards Karsdorf to intercept the enemy column. 3. The Hussar sqn at Tiefenzell is to set out for Karsdorf at 6.30am trot and walk, and report on any enemy activity from there. 4. The advanced guard will set out from Sildauer at 6.30am on the main road via Grossmau for Karsdorf with small patrols 1000 paces to either side of the road. 5. The main body will follow at 500 paces. 6. The reserve ammunition and baggae train will follow the main body at 2000 paces. 7. reports to advanced guard who will then report to the main body. 8. I shall ride at the head of the main body.
Von Budritzki. Oberst
Special Orders for the Advanced Guard Verbally to Zuluskowski: ‘If the enemy takes the quickest route we should find them at Karsdorf. As soon as you have positive reports from the forward squadron you are to ride once with the cavalry and horse battery, leaving the Jäger to follow at their own pace, and bring the enemy column under artillery fire. Your object will be to hold the enemy up until the main body has had time to come up. If you find that the enemy has not appeared by the time you have reached Karsdorf you should send out patrols at once to the South and West with orders to report to Nennweiler, which we will move on to. Zaluskowski: ‘Why not ride on at trot and walk from Sildauer?” ‘Well, I don’t want the advanced guard to get there too far in advance of the main body. If they reach Krasdorf just as we have reached, say, Klein Brunau, I think that will be about right.
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Scenario Three Flank Detachments Red Operation Order Detachment HQ, Gross Hagen 7.30pm 21.6.13 Detachment Order for 22nd June Distribution Advanced Guard 1 sqn Hussars (forward patrol) v.Saluskowski. 1 sqn Hussars 2 sqn Uhlans Horse battery 1 bn Jäger Main Body v.Budritzki 1 sqn Hussars V Regt. Foot battery VI Regt.
1. An enemy force has occupied Neu Goldberg threatening the flank of our army. 2. The detachment is to reconnoitre the ground between Gross Hagen and Neu Goldberg and protect the flank of our army at Steinau. 3. The Hussars will carry out reconnaissance: 1. Two troops along the main road to Neu Goldberg 2. One troop to Altstedten – choose a good vantage point to observe to the North and East. 3. One troop to Nennweiler crossing then Kippringen – observe towards Alt Goldberg from there. All troops to set out at 6.00am. 4. The advanced guard to Nennweiler. Ready to move at 6.00am. The battalion is to occupy the outskirts facing Neu Goldberg. The cavalry will take post South of the stream to the East of Nennweiler. 5. The main body will follow at 1000 paces. At Nennweiler the main body will take up a position on the high ground West of Nennweiler. 6. Baggage Train and ammunition col. will remain at Gross Hagen until given further orders. 7. I shall be at the head of the main body. 8. Reports to the main body.
Von Dietrich. Oberst
Verbally to v. Herwarth: ‘We will probably find ourselves fighting a rearguard action against superior numbers tomorrow, in which case it would be a mistake to try to hang on for too long to Nennweiler. We will hold it long enough to force the enemy to deploy and attack. We will cover the advanced guard withdrawal from Gut Nennweiler, and then fall back ourselves on the high ground West of the main road towards Klein Hagen. We must remain in contact with each other and I will get the baggage train across to the South of the river. We will put up a strong resistance at the Klein Hagen – Gross Hagen position, and if forced out of there we will hold the South side of Der Wettern’.
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Scenario Four A Bridging Party Red Operation Order Detachment HQ, Gross Hagen 7.30pm 07.05.14 Detachment Order for 8th May Distribution Reconnaissance 2 sqns Hussars Left Flank IX Regt. Pioneers Right Flank v.Hofmann 1 sqn Uhlans VII Regt. Foot battery .
1. An enemy detachment has been reported at Neu Goldberg, but the main force is believed to be still at Torgau. 2. The detachment is to reconnoitre towards Neu Goldberg and keep the East bank of Die Selz between there and Karsdorf under observation. 3. Reconnaissance – 2 sqns Hussars. 1. One sqn to Nennweiler with one troops reconnoitring to Neu Goldberg. 2. 1 sqn to send 4 troops patrols: a) The Nennweiler crossing b) High ground overlooking Karsdorf c) 2 troops to Kippringen bridge, then one to reconnoitre towards Alt Goldberg 4. Left Flank to Nennweiler to be further directed from there. Ready to march out at 6.00am. 5. Right Flank to set out for the Nennweiler crossing at 6.00am. 6. Ammunition Train to remain at gross Hagen until sent for. 7. I shall be with the Hussar HQ at Nennweiler until further notice.
Von Redern. Oberst
Verbally to v. Hofmann: ‘If the enemy are going to make their main crossing at Alt Goldberg they will be content to hold a bridgehead at Alt Goldberg, and you will be sent instructions to move north via Kippringen. If they are planning to cross near the main Karsdorf – Wollstein road they will have to build a pontoon bridge whish we will prevent with artillery fire and a battalion while the keep the Neu Goldberg force at bay. Initially you will be able to move the whole of your force to the high ground north of the crossing until the enemy appears from Karsdorf. We will not be able to hold the main force up for very long unless we can defeat the Neu Goldberg force, and in the event of a forced crossing we will fall back towards Altstedten.
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Scenario Five Reconnaisance & Battle Red Operation Order Detachment HQ, Silberberg 8.00pm 02.07.13
Distribution Reconnaissance 1 sqn Hussars Left Flank C.in C. 4 sqns Uhlans 1 bn Jäger V Regt. Horse battery Main Body v.Barby 3 sqns Hussars VII Regt. IX Regt. Foot battery. (a.g. ½ bn VII Regt. 2 troops Hus. 500 paces)
Detachment Order for 3rd July 1. The enemy is reported to be at Nennweiler and Kippringen. 2. The detachment will attack after gaining further information. 3. A sqn of Hussars will set out for Neu Selheim at 6.00am. 2 troops to Altstedten. 1 remaining to observe the road from Nennweiler, the other reconnoitring towards Klein Hagen. Reports to Neu Sellheim. Sqn will assemble at the Neu Sellheim exit ready to start at 6.00am. 4. The left flank column will set out for Neu Sellheim immediately after the Hussars. 5. The main body will start out at 6.00am on the Altstadten road with an advanced guard. At Altstedten, aprt from observers, the men will remain on the reverse slope. 6. Ammunition train to remain at Silberberg until called up. 7. I will be with the left flank column at Neu Sellheim.
Von Blumenthal. GeneralMajor
Verbally to v. Barby over a cognac in the Officers’ Mess, with a string quartet playing in the background. ‘We must assume the enemy have seen some of our patrols today and will be alerted to our presence. We must consider a few possibilities: a) They take up a defensive position around Nennweiler with, perhaps, a small force at Altstadten. b) They advance in force towards Silberberg. c) They split their force up in some way. Whether they remain at Nennweiler or are advancing towars Silberberg our object will be to concentrate our two columns on to them. If they are advancing, the left flank will attempt to attack their flank from the North East of Altstedten. If they are waiting at Nennweiler the main body will advance, pushing out any small force at Altstedten and the left flank will move further South East from Neu Selheim, crossing the main road (Nennweiler – Alt Goldberg) and then attack their rear. If they have split up between Nennweiler and Kippringen we will concentrate on Nennweiler with a small force to keep watch on Kippringen.
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Scenario Six Reconnaisance & Battle II Red Operation Order 1. To Die Kamphofe Uhlans. Continue to report. If forced to retire join up with Uhlans at Hohenzell. Reports to me with V Regt. making for West bank of Weiden Bach. 10.02. 2. To Die Waldhofe Uhlans. Rejoin squadrons at Hohenzell immediately 10.02. 3. To Oberst Brandenstein and v.Winkler, V and IX Regts. Get your men in marching order immediately. IX Regt. to march across country to the West bank of Weiden Bach. V Regt. to wait until I have joined them. 10.06. 4. To Major Richter, Hussar HQ, Selchner. Assemble your squadrons as quickly as possible. An enemy column is approaching from Kroppen. I shall be with the V Regt. West of the Weiden Bach. 10.08. 5. To VII Regt., Foot battery, Jägers at Karsdorf. Get your troops up to Klein Brunau as quickly as possible and report to von Barby there. 10.09. 6. To v.Barby. Stay here until the troops from Karsdorf arrive, then begin marching towards Hohenzell and send me a report. You know where I am likely to be, though we may have had to fall back a bit from the West bank by then. 10.10. 7. To the Hohensell Uhlans. An enemy column has appeared at Kroppen. Get your troops together in battle order to the South East of Hohenzell and send a patrol towards Kroppen to report on any enemy movement. Reports to me with V Regt. to West of Weidenbach. 10.12.
Von Blumenthal. GeneralMajor
Red commander to himself as he rides for Grossmau. ‘Herrgott! This would happen. We may be able to reach the Weiden Bach before the enemy attack. If Barby’s lot get a move on we may be able to draw the enemy West as Barby’s forces hit them from the North. The Hussars are not in a position to do much, but I will order them up via Waldhof – towards Grossmau – who knows where we will be by the time they arrive?! It is possible that the Blue column is just as surprised as we are, in which case we may be ready to attack before they are. Let’s hope so!’
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Scenario Seven The Convoy Red Operation Order Detachment HQ, Randow 7.30pm 02.09.13 Detachment Order for 3rd September Distribution Advanced Guard Hpt.Lindow 1 sqn Hussars Horse battery Main Body v.Kessle 3 sqns Uhlans 1 sqn Hussars 1 bn Jäger III Regt. Foot battery Reconnaissance 1 sqn Hussars (4 posts)
1. An enemy force is reported to be at Alt Goldberg. 2. The detachment is to escort the convoy from Randow to Grunberg, but we shall do this by keeping the main body between the convoy and any possible attack from Alt Goldberg. 3. The advanced guard will set out at 6.00am (trot and walk) via Die Eichen Wald for Sildauer. 4. The main body will set out as soon as the a.g. has departed. It will make for Tiefenzell via Kroppen. 5. 1 sqn Hussars from main body will provide four observation troops who should be ready to set out via Dolitz – Waldhof at 6.00am (trot and walk) to: 1. North of Grossman – observe Kippringen valley. 2. North side of Die Lange Hohe – observe towards Ned Goldberg. 3. Seedorf – observe Westwards* 4. 1000 paces north of Seedorf – observe approaches from Gut Waldau to Sildauer and Munchshof. For any enemy marched towards Sildauer they must report to the a.g. at Sildauer and the main body. *If these positions are already held by the enemy they report and continue to observe. 6. The convoy will follow the main body at 500 paces but from Kroppen will follow the a.g. route to Sildauer. 7. Reports to the main body en route to Tiefenzell. 8. I shall ride with the Uhlans of the main body.
Von Kessle. Oberst Verbally to Hauptmann Lindow in von Kessel’s campaign tent. ‘Well, Lindow, I need not tell you it could get very difficult tomorrow. You will be lucky to get to Sildauer before the enemy if they send a cavalry force direct from Alt Goldberg, and the battalion from Grunberg is not likely to get there much before 7.30, and that’s assuming no hold-ups. If you cannot get into Sildauer you will have to contact them somehow – they will be under your command. If the enemy are in force at Sildauer we may have to divert the convoy via Abtshof or even Kirchberg. If it becomes clear that there is no attack from the South of Der See the main body will move up to Mulbach’s Hofe and the southernmost Hussar troops will be recalled. If we manage to cross Die Silde successfully we will send further patrols North’.
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Scenario Eight The Convoy II Red Operation Order Detachment HQ, Zobigker 7.30pm 13.08.13 Detachment Order for 14th September 1. Distribution
2.
Advanced Guard Hpt.Lindow 1 sqn Hussars Horse battery
3.
Main Body v.Falkenstein 3 sqns Uhlans 1 sqn Hussars 1 bn Jäger III Regt. Foot battery Reconnaissance 1 sqn Hussars (4 posts)
4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
An enemy force is assembled at Kroppen bound for Lenka Enemy patrols have been seen at Waldhofe. The detachment is to prevent the enemy convoy reaching Lenka. Reconnaissance. 1 sdn Hussars in four troops as follows: 1. 1 troops to Waldhofe* 2. 3 troops direct to Grossmau across country. From there: a) 1 troop towards Die Kamphof and Kroppen b) 1 troop towards the Lustschloss c) 1 troop Hohenzell-Tiefenzell All troops to set out at 6.00am * To report to C.O. from Waldhof. If there are no enemy troops in the area they are to proceed to Grossmau. The advanced guard will set out for Grossmau at 6.10am following the road until the Grunau is crossed and then across country. The main body will follow at 1000 paces. Any reports before Grossmau is reached should be made to the advance guard who should pass them back to the main body. Baggage to follow main body at 2000 pace. I shall ride with the main body.
Von Falkenstein. Oberst Verbally to Hauptmann Bauer in Falkenstein’s campaign tent: ‘Assuming the convoy is moving on the 14th we have to find out whether it is taking the direct route to Lenka or whether it is being diverted via Sildauer, or even further East. Personally, I think Sildauer is the most likely route, since they have no doubt heard of our presence from the patrol at Waldhof, and I imagine they will have placed their main escort in the Tiefenzell area. If, on the other thand, they are along the Weidenbach it may mean that they are going for the most direct route along the main road. By the time we have reached Grossmau we should have a good idea of the position between the Weidenbach and the main road, but we will have to send some patrols towards Seedorf across Die Langehohe (the high ground between Kippringen and Hohenzell) to see whether is a cavalry presence there.
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Unless the escort is very small we shall keep it occupied with the main body whilst the advanced guard slips through and attacks the convoy wherever they find it. If we find that the enemy is very strong in cavalry we will detach one squadron and the Horse artillery from the advanced guard to act as a special strike force while the rest do their best to keep the enemy cavalry occupied. You will have to put a good man in charge of this. In the event that our patrols find nothing at all between Grossmau and the main road we will send out further patrols and make for Tiefenzell with our whole force.’ Special Instructions to the small strike force (if need be). ‘Look here, young Grolmann, your mission calls for a high degree of initiative and courage and we are relying on you. You are to avoid the enemy cavalry and make for the enemy convoy with all speed. You should keep your force together as much as possible, using only three-man patrols for any reconnaissance, our best guess at the moment is that the convoy is either on the main road or moving via Sildauer, but there is the possibility that it is diverted as far as Schönkirch, so you must not just sit on your behind at Seedorf and let it go by. Your first priority is to stop the convoy. Capture it if you can, but otherwise destroy it. Good luck, and try to let us know what’s going on.’
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Scenario Nine Advanced Guard Red Operation Order Detachment HQ, Sildauer 8.00pm 17.08.13 Detachment Order for 18th August
Distribution Main Body VI Regt. (2 bn) Pioneers 1 sqn Hussars 3rd bn VI Regt. C.in C. Rear Guard v.Kalbacher 2 sqns Uhlans 1 sqn Hussars (Schönkirch) 1 bn Jäger Horse battery
1. The enemy continues to press on in superior numbers from the North East. Enemy cavalry are reported at Tiefethal, Abtshof and Wittendorf. 2. The detachment will continue an orderly withdrawal to Nennweiler. 3. The baggage train must be ready to leave Sildauer at 5.30am. Route: Tiefenszll, Hohenzell, Kippringen – Nennweiler. 4. The main body will be ready to march at 6.00am. Route as for baggage train. The third bn. as rearguard to the main body will halt at Tiefenzell and will attempt to keep about 1500 paces in front of the detachment rear guard. The main body Hussars will send a troop to the high ground North West of Die EichenWald and another 1000 paces North West of Tiefenzell. 5. The rearguard will be under the command of v.Kalbacher. 6. I shall be with the 3rd bn of the main body.
Von Schellendorf. Oberst
Verbally to Pr.Lt von Kalbacher: ‘According to HQ instructions we fall back on Nennweiler. The route takes us through Kippringen so that we do not have to cross the front of our own troops in the front of Nennweiler. Our task is to get the detachment back safely while holding up the enemy advance for as long as we can, which will call for some fine judgement on your part. We must maintain contact with each other throughout the retreat, and I shall try to keep the third battalion close enough to provide some fall-back support in case of need. You should feel content if you force the advancing enemy to deploy, and should not hang on so long that you cannot extricate yourself. You will have to position your small force in such a way that units can give support to each other in the withdrawal. You know, it reminds me of my first command in ’96. Our troops had just taken a beating...’
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Scenario Nine Rearguard Orders for the 18th. A closer examination of the stream that runs through the town suggests that there is no point in trying to blow up the whole of the town centre. We will hold the high ground to the North of Sildauer and, in view of the reports from Wittendorf, we will have some units at Sildauer Hof. The Hussars at Schönkirch will be called in. Hussars:
On arrival from Schönkirch: 1 troop to Holzhof height to observe. 1 troop to Michlenhof farm (¾ of a mile South East of Sildauer) 2 troops Sildauer Hohe
Jäger:
Half bn at Sildauer Hohe Half bn at Sildauer Hof
Battery:
Half battery at Sildauer Hohe Half battery at Sildauer Hof
Uhlans:
One sqn 100 paces West of Sildauer Hof but North of the stream. One sqn 300 paces South of the other sqn.
The next fall-back point will be the high ground South of Sildauer. Difficult cavalry country and full of defensive features for Jäger. The Uhlans will cover the retreat of the Jäger and artillery through the town and the Jäger can cover the cavalry, if it is necessary (note the ridge which runs along the South side of the Die Silde valley floor).
von Kalbacher. Pr.Lt.
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Scenario Ten Advanced Guard II Red Operation Order Detachment HQ, Neuhof 7.40pm 20.10.13 Detachment Order for 21st October
Distribution Reconnaissance 2 sqns Hussars Advanced Guard v.Thile 1 sqns Hussars 1 sqn Uhlans 1 bn VI Regt. Horse battery Main Body v.Tiedemann 1 sqn Uhlans
1 bn Jäger 2 bns VI Regt. IX Regt. Foot battery 2 sqn Uhlans Pontoon train Pioneers
1. The enemy continues to fall back on their main army. 2. The detachment will continue its march towards Altschloss via Karsdorf and Tiefenzell. 3. Reconnaissance. Two sqns Hussars will recce to left and right of the proposed route as follows: 1. 1 sqn via Blesen – the area south of Die Sellheimer as far as the West bank of the Die Selz before crossing to recce between the main road and Neu Goldberg – Gut Althof. 2. 1 sqn – the East bank of Die Schleyde and South of the main road to the Karsdorf crossing – then South of the Karsdorf-Tiefenzell road. 4. The advanced guard will proceed on the proposed route if the way is clear. They must carry out their own careful forward reconnaissance. 5. The main body will follow the proposed route from Neuhof. 6. Wagons will follow at 2000 paces. 7. All patrols and columns to set out at 6.00am. 8. I shall ride at the head of the main body.
Von Tiedemann. GeneralMajor
Verbally to Hauptmann von Thile: ‘I am sure we will find the enemy putting up some resistance tomorrow. Use your reconnaissance Hussars and push on until you find the point of resistance. Having found it – deploy, reconnoitre, and report. If the enemy resistance is slight you may be able to brush it aside. If it is too strong for that try to keep them occupied with firepower until the main body arrives.
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Scenario Eleven Advanced Guard Encounter Red Operation Order Advanced Guard HQ, Karsdorf 8.00pm 28.05.11 Advanced Guard Orders for 29th May 1. Distribution Reconnaissance 1 sqn Hussars
2. 3.
Force A v.Bulow 1 sqns Hussars ½ bn Jäger Horse battery Force B Oberst Schmalz 1 sqn Uhlans ½ bn Jäger VI Regt. Foot battery
4.
Enemy Patrols have been reported at Kippringen and Grossmau. Our main body is expected to arrive at Karsdorf at noon, 29th tomorrow. The advanced guard will remain to protect the Karsdorf position from possible attack. Reconnaissance. The Hussars 1st sqn will provide four reconnaissance troops: 1. The Nennweiler crossing troop: trot and walk to Neu Goldberg. 2. The Kippringen troop cover the area towards Seedorf. 3. The Klein Brunau troops to patrol as far as Tiefenzell. 4. The Karsdorf troops to cover the area Klein Brunau – Waldhof. All troops to set out at 6.00am and return to present positions if nothing is seen, Negative reports, especially from the Neu Goldberg area, are also important. Force A under von Bulow (the younger). Setting out at 6.00am will take up a position on Die Lange Hohe. The half bn of Jäger presently at Kippringen making their way independently.
5.
6. 7. 8.
Force B. lead by myself will set out from Karsdorf at 6.20 for Reichhofe. The Jäger at the crossing will set out for Karsdorf at 6.00am. Pioneers will do what they can to strengthen the outer defences of Karsdorf in the case of need. Baggage and wagons will remain at Karsdorf. Reports up to 6.20am Karsdorf. From 6.20am I expect to be with VI Regt. towards or at Die Reichhofe (¾ of a mile North East of Karsdorf.
Sch,altz. Oberst Verbally to Pr.Leutnant von Bulow and others at the Town Hall in Karsdorf, Schalz’s temporary HQ: ‘The reports of enemy patrols so close to Karsdorf are too serious to ignore. If we were to allow an enemy force to occupy Karsdorf the progress of the main body would be critically held up. My guess is that the attack, if it comes, will be from Seedorf or Tiefenzell, but we must not ignore the possibility that it might come from Neu Goldberg. For this reason I do not want to move too far from Karsdorf until we hear that Neu Goldberg is clear.
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If an attack is coming from Seedorf or Teifenzell we will hold them for as long as we can around Klein Brunau – Die Lange Hohe, falling back on Karsdorf as we need to. If the enemy seem to be moving towards Zobigker we will not move against it until we are sure about attacks from West of Die Selz. We can, if need be, leave the main body to deal with an attack on Zobigker themselves, but we cannot risk an enemy occupation of Karsdorf. Von Bulow, nephew of Count Freidrich Wilhelm, will be leading Force A. If the attack is from Seedorf only, either we in Force B will advance to support them or they will fall back to our right, depending on the strength of the enemy. If it is from the East only, we will units to meet it around Klein Brunau or Grossmau. If from both directions in strength we will fight a rearguard action towards Karsdorf and Force B will get as close to Klein Brunau as it can initially.
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Scenario Twelve A Flank March Red Operation Order Detachment HQ, Nennweiler 8.00pm 22.05.13 Detachment Order for 23rd March 1. Distribution
2.
Reconnaissance 2 sqns Hussars
3.
Advanced Guard Wolffsburg. Graf v. 1 sqns Dragoons 1 bn VI Regt. Main Body v.Knappstadt 1 sqn Dragoons
4.
Pontoon train & pioneers with baggage train.
5. 6. 7.
1 bn Jäger 2 bns VI Regt. Foot battery
Enemy forces are believed to be concentrated around Grunberg The detachment is ordered to march on Grunberg via Tiefenzell. Reconnaissance. 2 sqns Hussars: 1. 1st sqn trot and walk to Kippringen then troops to reconnoitre the ground between main KarsdorfTiefenzell road and the Seedorf canal with 1 troops as far as Seedorf. 2. 2nd sqn trot and walk to Karsdorf and then reconnoitre the area South of the main road with 1 troops to Waldhof – Die Kamphofe – Kroppen. Both sqns to set out at 6.00am. Reports to advanced guard. The advanced guard will set out from Nennweiler at 6.00am via Karsdorf and Tiefenzell for Grunberg with an advanced patrol 1000 paces ahead. The a.g. commander will report back to the main body. The main body will follow the a.g. at 1000 paces. Baggage will follow main body at 500 paces. I shall ride with the main body.
Von Knappstadt. Oberst
Verbally to Graf von der Schulenburg-Wolffsburg: ‘Well, my friend, I do not quite believe that we will reach Grunberg without meeting some enemy resistance, but the only thing we can do is to make sure we have good forward reconnaissance. I am keeping the baggage train fairly close to that we don’t lose it. Good luck – I have every confidence in you.
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