CROSSROADS Closing
the Gap
A World War 2 Mini- Campaign detailing the Battle of Saint-Lambert-sur-Dives
CROSSROADS Closing
the Gap
Campaign Module By Matthew Bona
Crossroads, Closing the Gap Written by Matthew Bona 2015 http://playingtheodds.com.au
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution‐ShareAlike 4.0 International License. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by‐sa/4.0/.
Cover Photograph by Serge Bougie (2015). Internal Photographs of Miniatures by Serge Bougie and John Vint (2015). Campaign Idea by Matthew Bona and John Vint. Proofreading by Kylie Bertram, Luke Pullar and John Vint. Extra Font: Kingthings Typewriter, http://www.kingthingsfonts.co.uk/
This document is intentionally laid out in a manner similar to the TooFatLardies (toofatlardies.co.ok) Pint Sized Campaign books in an effort to maintain a measure of consistency. There is no challenge made or intended to any of their (or anyone else’s) works or copyrights.
INTRODUCTION Panzergruppe West funnel into one, of only two, bridges capable of supporting tanks and heavy Welcome to Crossroads, Closing the Gap: a vehicles. campaign module for Chain of Command, a World War 2 wargame from TooFatLardies. This campaign is designed to use the Chain of Command campaign supplement ‘At the Sharp th This campaign focusses on the actions of the 4 End’, whose rules will be used to progress the Canadian Armoured Division at the end of the campaign. Normandy Campaign. While this campaign is designed to use Chain of After the Commonwealth forces’ eventual capture Command, it should be relatively easy to modify of their D‐Day objective, the city of Caen, the U.S. the scenarios and missions within to reflect the forces launched Operation Cobra. The aim was to rules for any system. Suggestions are offered at the break out of the beachhead and try and capture back of the campaign. the rest of the peninsula. It is expected this campaign will last no more than At the same time the Canadian and British forces nine games, after which there should be a launched their own Operations in an attempt to tie conclusive result. up German reserves and buy the U.S. forces time to complete their objectives. Hopefully you will enjoy this campaign and its look into one of the formative actions that helped end With Operation Cobra succeeding so quickly, the the Normandy Campaign. German army found itself surrounded and on the back foot, soon after this became a tour and only one escape route remained: Falaise and its surrounding area.
The 4th Canadian Armoured Division landed at Normandy in July 1944, establishing camp in southern Caen. From there they became integral in Operations ‘Totalize’ and ‘Tractable’, the push south to capture Falaise and secure the northern end of the ‘Falaise pocket’, and from there seal the gap at Chambois.
Facing a staunch and determined enemy, the 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend commanded by Kurt Meyer, the way to Falaise was slow and hard fought. Finally, on the 16th of August, Falaise was captured and provided the launching point to seal off ‘the gap’ at Trun and Chambois.
The race to Chambois and to close the Falaise Gap was on!
Specifically this module will look at the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and the 29th Armoured Reconnaissance (South Alberta) Regiment, of the 4th Canadian Armoured Division in their attempt to capture and hold the town of Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐ Dives, blocking the escape routes of the fleeing German armies.
The Canadian mixed group will need to capture and then defend Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐Dives as the remains of the fleeing German 7.Armee and
1 BACKGROUND
2 THE ROAD SOUTH in position, they would use Cormelles as a jump off point to launch an attack on Verrières Ridge. During the Normandy campaign the Canadians met Ultimately, the assault was a failure, but the stern opposition from some of the most well Canadian forces remained in control of the trained and provisioned troops, the elite German captured towns. Panzer Divisions: 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend, 21st Panzer Division, 1st SS Panzer Shortly after, Operation Spring was organised in Division Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler and Panzer another attempt to take Verrières Ridge and the Lehr Division. towns on the southern slope. Primarily, this was designed as a holding attack: providing assistance Following the D‐Day landings on Juno Beach, the to Operation Cobra and creating yet more pressure Canadians found they had penetrated deeper into on German forces. France than forces at any of the other landing sites. They also encountered stronger resistance than Operation Cobra was executed so rapidly however, th any other beachhead, except Omaha Beach. that by the 4 of August seven Divisions of Patton’s Third Army had swept into Brittany. By 8th of After linking up with British forces, they began the August, after the defeat of von Kluge’s forces in the slow process of capturing their original D‐Day German counterattack Operation Lüttich, Allied objective of Caen and the surrounding areas. commanders realised the German position in Following fierce fighting against a determined and Normandy was collapsing. This began a race east near fanatical enemy, and after suffering horrific creating a huge envelopment of German forces in numbers of casualties, slow progress could an attempt to cut off the enemy, who were now eventually be seen. Almost one month after the often in full flight, from escaping. initial planned date, the joint Canadian and British forces captured the city of Caen in early July. The 4th Canadian Armoured Division landed at After the D‐Day beachheads were established and Normandy in July 1944, as a reinforcement for the the drive inland was beginning, Operation Cobra Allied effort, in time to participate in Operation th was devised. The plan was for U.S. forces to push Tractable and Operation Totalize. The 14 of through the enemy around St Lô, and break free August saw the launch of these Operations, after from bocage country, outflanking the German German Forces started moving from the British and army and capturing the peninsula. This was Canadian front westward to combat the principal supported by the British and Canadians through effort of Operation Cobra. Operations Goodwood, Atlantic, Spring and The Operations were conducted by Canadian and Bluecoat. Polish forces with the support of one brigade of In mid‐July Canadian forces launched Operation British tanks. They were ordered to head south Atlantic, as part of Operation Goodwood, and along the D13 highway to Falaise, in conjunction cleared southern Caen before pushing east of the with American movements northward to Orne River. The British and Canadian Forces were Chambois. The intention was to trap and destroy to draw the German strength to themselves, the entirety of the German Seventh and Fifth helping reduce resistance for the US Forces Panzer Armies, and finally bring an end to the conducting Operation Cobra. Normandy campaign.
The plan for Operation Atlantic was a two pronged The major phase of what was to later be called the approach: the 2nd and 3rd Canadian Infantry Battle of Falaise Pocket, to complete the Divisions would strike out and capture Vaucelles, envelopment of the German forces, lasted from th nd Colombelles and the opposite bank of the Orne the 16 to the 22 of August 1944. During that River. Leading the attack South‐East from Caen, time American forces began to swing northward 2nd Division would cross the Orne River and move toward Argentan while Canadian, Polish and British to capture Vaucelles. Then, 3rd Division would forces began to manoeuvre south in a pincer proceed to cross the Orne River near Colombelles movement to close the trap. and capture the town, moving South from there to also capture Cormelles. Once both Divisions were
3 OPERATION TOTALIZE occupation of the town of Cintheaux. This action allowed them to hold up the advance of the Operation Totalize was an Allied offensive Canadian and Polish Armoured formations. launched by the First Canadian Army, from the evening of 7th of August to 13th of August. The aim In one unfortunate event, a column from the 4th of the Operation was to break through German Canadian Armoured Division, known as defences south of Caen and push through to Worthington Force, was ordered to take Hill 195 capture the high ground north of Falaise, 24 just to the west of the road midway between kilometres out from the city. The goal was to bring Cintheaux and Falaise. This movement was on the collapse of the entire German front, and cut designed to threaten and cause disarray in the off the retreat of German forces fighting American German lines. and British armies further west. After becoming disorientated, Worthington Force Under the cover of a heavy bombardment from ended up about 7 kilometres east of Hill 195, at Hill RAF Bomber Command, the Allies began their 140 (halfway between Estrées‐la‐Campagne and advance. Initial going was slow as the dust from the Mazières), and was subject to repeated German bombardments caused confusion, and the bomb counter attacks. Worthington Force held their craters caused vehicles to become bogged. By ground but suffered heavy losses and by 1700 on th dawn though the offensive had rapidly overrun the the 9 of August the remains of the Force had defenders in the villages of Cramesnil and Saint‐ either been captured or forced to withdraw. th Aignan de Cramesnil, and by noon on 8 of August, The Canadians were initially unable to be rescued the entire Verrières Ridge had been captured. due to being so far off course, but eventually the Shortly after midday the German 12th SS Panzer 4th Canadian Armoured Division recaptured Hill th Division counter attacked, resulting in the 195 in a night attack on 10 of August.
4 The time able to be gained by the Germans, OPERATION TRACTABLE however, allowed them to withdraw and reform a defensive line on the Laison River and by 11th of After Operation Cobra was initiated, an immediate August the Allied offensive had been halted. counter‐attack by German forces was ordered. This was Operation Lüttich, affected by Günther von It was noted after his capture that Kurt Meyer, Kluge and Army Group B. Unfortunately for commander of 12th SS Panzer Division Operation Lüttich, it was doomed to fail as the Hitlerjugend, was unforgiving in his evaluation of Allied forces were able to intercept German Operation Totalize: intelligence and radio reports (with the aid of “British and Canadian planning was absolutely without Ultra), and thus prepare their troops in advance. risk; neither army employed its armoured strength for This failed Operation allowed the Allies to further (the job for) which it was created. In both armies, the surround Army Group B making Falaise even more tank was used, more or less, as an infantry support valuable as its capture, through Operation Totalize, weapon. would virtually cut them off completely. Armoured warfare is a matter of using given Unfortunately the advance of Operation Totalize opportunities on the battlefield, therefore the Div Comd stalled, before reaching Falaise, at Hill 195. This belongs on the leading combat gp, to see for himself, to allowed an opening for the forces of German Army save precious time, and to make lightning decisions from Group B to escape. his moving tank. He, and no one else must be the driving force of his div.... Thus Operation Tractable was devised. Its goal was to capture the strategically important French town The Brit and Cdn forces executed the ops in an inflexible, of Falaise, and following that, the smaller towns of time wasting, method. Never once did "Speed" as the Trun and Chambois. This would extend the Allied most powerful weapon of Armd Warfare, appear“ front line and help close the ‘gap’ at Falaise, trapping the remaining German forces
Operation Tractable would constitute an advance from the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division and 4th Canadian Armoured Division, with the 2nd Armoured Brigade in support. The Polish 1st Armoured Division were to lend support in the capture of Trun, after Falaise was secured.
Learning from the experiences of Operation Totalize, this attack was launched in daylight, with an initial bombing raid, and a large smoke screen laid down by Canadian Artillery.
The primary opposition facing the Canadians was the 12th SS Panzer Division who caught a lucky break, and in a moment of opportunity, captured a Canadian Officer who got lost while driving between two divisional headquarters. In a stroke of good fortune for the Germans, the officer was carrying a copy of the attack orders. This allowed them to place a bulk of their force along the Allies expected lines of approach, amounting to some 500 Grenadiers, 15 tanks and twelve 8.8cm PaK 43 anti‐tank guns, and certainly levelled the field.
At 1200 on the 14th of August the Operation got off to a slow start, resistance was strong and the fighting fierce. The 4th Canadian Armoured Division and 1st Polish Armoured Division managed
5 to force a crossing of the Laison River, under tanks and soft skinned vehicles moving south at constant counterattack from the German 102nd SS high speed. Heavy Panzer Battalion, and captured the town of The South Alberta Regiment, with the Argyll and Potigny by late afternoon. Sutherland Highlanders, were tasked to proceed to On the 15th of August both armoured divisions Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐Dives on the way to Chambois, pushed south to Falaise, with the 4th Armoured their final destination. Taking Chambois would cut Division capturing Soulangy on the way. They off the last remaining gap out of which the encountered strong German resistance outside of Germans could escape from Falasie. the town preventing a quick breakthrough to Trun. Finally on the 16th of August, the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division pushed into Falaise, unexpectedly encountering weak resistance from scattered pockets of German infantry and Waffen‐SS units.
The first major objective of Operation Tractable had been accomplished. Here the Allied forces were reorganised, and the focus now turned to finalising the plans which would close the ‘gap’.
TRUN TO CHAMBOIS, VIA ST. LAMBERT Between the 16th and 19th of August the next stage of Operation Tractable began, with advances planned for the Canadian and Polish forces to secure Trun and Chambois, which would see the gap closed.
The 17th of August saw ‘B’ Squadron (Sqn) of the South Alberta Regiment (SAR) join the Algonquin Regiment in a successful attack on Louvres. Two enemy tank destroyers and a Tiger tank were also located, which were driven off by Canadian artillery.
SAR ‘A’ Sqn entered the town of Damblainville, with the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, and It was mid‐afternoon on the 18th of August that a actively began clearing the town. ‘C’ Sqn followed composite group made its way to Saint‐Lambert‐ them up and engaged in clearing out reported sur‐Dive. Consisting of fifty five troops from ‘B’ sniper positions. ‘C’ Sqn also spotted withdrawing Company of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, enemy soft skin vehicles, tanks and mortars south under command of Major Ivan Martin, along with of their position and proceed to open fire with the 15 tanks of ‘C’ Squadron of the South Alberta artillery assistance. Regiment. The group, under overall command of The 4th Canadian Armoured Division liberated Trun Major David Vivian Currie of the SAR, was tasked itself on the 18th August, and by then the Polish 1st with closing the road running through St. Lambert Armoured Division had established itself directly which had become the main German escape route north of Chambois. SAR ‘B' Sqn moved off with the between Trun and Chambois. Algonquin's to launch an attack on Le Marais La The initial attempt was slowed by friendly fire from Chapelle, where they found very light resistance. tanks of the Polish Armoured Brigade and RAF Further evidence of enemy withdrawal was fighters, and met with a well‐armed and dug in reported by SAR ‘A’ Sqn which spotted enemy enemy showing determined resistance. German 8.8‐centimetre guns knocked out two Canadian
6 tanks on approach, and at dusk Major Currie mixed group re‐entered the village shortly after entered the place alone on foot. He proceeded to dawn. The straggle of stone houses lining both reconnoitre the enemy defences and, in the face of sides of the road was not an inviting position for heavy mortar‐fire, rescued the crews of the the Shermans of the SAR. After the lead tank was disabled tanks. The battle group was then ordered hit the job of clearing out the town was turned over to withdraw and wait for morning. to the men of the Argyll’s, which they performed well and systematically. Under cover of darkness, at around midnight, Lieutenant‐Colonel Wotherspoon ordered the The end of the day saw St. Lambert secured with remainder of the SAR, ‘B’ and ‘C’ Sqn and the Canadian’s consolidating in the centre of the Regimental HQ (RHQ), to position themselves on town, having insufficient troops to occupy it Hill 117 directly north of St. Lambert in readiness entirely. The lull in fighting also brought the arrival for the attack tomorrow. of Forward Observation Officers (FOO), reporting that both field and medium artillery were in range. At first light on the 19th of August SAR ‘C’ Sqn and This news was especially welcomed. Additionally, ‘B’ Company Argyll's moved on St. Lambert. SAR ‘A’ ‘B’ Company of the Argyll and Sutherland Sqn moved into position on their right, to cover the Highlanders, along with a company from the road north, with ‘B’ Sqn taking up position to cover Lincoln and Welland Regiment, were brought up to the attack. RHQ took up a defensive position reinforce the Canadian position after a day of behind ‘B’ Sqn. vicious, close range fighting. In those early hours of the assault Major Currie’s In one particularly noteworthy encounter, battlegroup again faced fierce opposition from Lieutenant Gil Armour led a team on an assault of enemy armour, artillery and infantry. Currie’s a Panther tank, which had drawn up beside a house
7 on the other side of the main crossroads. Clearing shoot up all visible targets, with artillery also being the intervening houses, Lt. Armour climbed the called to assist. This caught the Germans tank readying a grenade, but as he opened the completely by surprise, although not everything hatch a German officer armed with an automatic was one sided as their 8.8cm guns forced a pistol engaged with him. A scuffle ensued in which readjustment of positions. the German officer was wounded. By this time the It was the afternoon of the 19th that the first tank had closed the hatch, started the engine and significant numbers of captured or surrendered backed up. The Panther stopped to get a clear view German troops came in to RHQ from St. Lambert. of the wounded German officer, when the small This would become problematic, as there were too turret left of the gun opened and a head emerged. few men available to correctly handle them. Lt. Armour and his team renewed the assault, this time being able to drop the grenade into the open By nightfall it was realised that RHQ would have to hatch. With the motor still running, the tank hold the front of about 1000 yards. Personnel were further backed up until it came to rest against a in defensive positions manning Browning and Bren building. The team kept watch on the tank until a Machineguns, with the M10’s giving invaluable PIAT was brought up, and able to finish it off. help with their .50 Calibre guns. The line was indeed stretched thin. During the day, as the attack continued, ‘B’ Sqn pushed forward to point 124, in the left rear. This On the morning of the 20th of August, German left RHQ in solely in possession of Hill 117, with forces began launching a series of heavy support from the attached M10 Self‐Propelled (SP) counterattacks trying to drive a wedge between troop. the northern and southern Allied positions in order to keep the way open, and give their retreating Whilst the close ranged fighting inside St. Lambert forces an escape route. At dusk the Germans made was going on, the rest of the SAR and Argyll’s were a final effort, but the attacking force was routed also kept busy. The ridge to the south was kept before it could even be deployed. The Canadians under observation, and would later be known as then launched an attack of their own and the Falaise Ridge completed the capture of St. Lambert. At 1100 heavy convoy movement was spotted on
Falaise Ridge and SAR tanks immediately began to
8 Finally by the 21st of August, most of the heavy people, and sometimes exceeding 600), it now had fighting was over and the town cleared of the a wealth of Great War veterans of all ranks. enemy. The roads leading into Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐ When the Regiment was called out to serve in the Dives were jammed with destroyed vehicles and Second World War, details were formed as a abandoned equipment. Battalion, designated and placed on active service, Over the 36 hours of the engagement, the as The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (Princess composite group captured and held the town, Louise’s)(Machine Gun), CASF (Details), on the 1st engaged in brutal fighting, managing to hold off of September 1939. almost continuous attacks by German forces. All attempts from the Germans to push the Canadians out of town and break out across the Dives River, and North‐East through St. Lambert, were defeated and driven back. During this time Major Currie would lose all of his officers and was left commanding groups of men directly on the front line. By the time the fighting had stopped, ‘B’ and ‘C’ Companies of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders had been reduced to 70 men between them.
In Saint‐Lambert however, the Germans forces had taken a heavier toll, 300 men killed, 500 wounded and 2100 taken prisoner. Seven tanks, twelve 8.8cm guns and 40 other vehicles had all been destroyed.
This was a significant victory for the Canadian Spending the early years of the war on local forces, the cost was great, but they had completed protection duties and a number of other similar their mission. They had held the line and kept the details, the Battalion underwent a number of ‘gap’ closed, helping in no small way to bring about designation changes until it embarked for Great the end of the Normandy Campaign. Britain on the 21st of July 1943 and landing as part of the 10th Infantry Brigade, 4th Canadian ARGYLL AND SUTHERLAND Armoured Division, as The Argyll and Sutherland HIGHLANDERS Highlanders (Princess Louise’s), CASF, in France on the the 26th of July 1944. Overall the Argyll’s were Always at the front of the Canadian advance were a successful Battalion, thought of as formidable, the men of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and not only were they constantly successful but Regiment. Formed in 1902 by members of the they also had the lowest losses of the 10th Brigade. Highland‐Canadian community, as the 91st Regiment Canadian Highlanders, they were 29th ARMOURED RECONNAISSANCE particularly lively and well connected. (SOUTH ALBERTA) REGIMENT During the Great War, the regiment was primarily Accompanying the men of the Argyll and used as a training unit until attrition required its Sutherland Highlanders were the tanks of the 29th members to be used as reinforcements. This saw Armoured Reconnaissance (South Alberta) members of the regiment split up between the Regiment, the SAR. 19th Battalion and the 173rd Highlanders Battalion, although it was the former that the 91st The South Alberta Regiment was initially created in had the most association with. 1924 as a Canadian Infantry Regiment. They were mobilised in 1940 as part of the 4th Canadian During the Inter‐war years the Regiment, like many Infantry Division and when demand for a second others, endured general military reorganisations. Canadian Armoured Division came, the division The Regiment was not only large (rarely below 400
9 was reorganised into an armoured formation, with the fighting it was left to Major Currie to command the Regiment receiving Ram tanks in 1942. alone, often personally ensuring his dug in troops knew their targets while rallying his dwindling By mid‐June 1944 the SAR were deployed to number of men and making sure they all knew the northern France and had replaced their Ram tanks importance of their roles. with Stuart and Sherman tanks, the Regiment landed in Normandy on the 24th of July 1944 with In the end the determination of Major Currie and its parent Division. Unlike the two reconnaissance his men, throughout three days and nights of fierce regiments in 2nd and 3rd Canadian Infantry fighting, denied the enemy a route by which they Divisions, the South Alberta's were expected to might escape and helped affect the closing of the have to fight to obtain their information. As the Falaise Gap. For his efforts Major Currie was Divisional armoured reconnaissance unit it was awarded the Victoria Cross, the only one awarded frequently expected to provide support to the to a Canadian during the Normandy Campaign and division's infantry, as well as acting as a the only one ever awarded to a member of the reconnaissance unit seeking information on the Royal Canadian Armoured Corps. enemy and terrain for the divisional commander. His citation tells that there can be no doubt that The only Canadian soldier to be awarded the the success of this force's task on and stand against Victoria Cross for the Normandy campaign came the enemy at ST. LAMBERT SUR DIVES can only be from the South Alberta Regiment, Major David attributed to this officer's coolness, inspired Vivian Currie, for his actions at Saint‐Lambert‐Sur‐ leadership and skilful use of the limited weapons at Dives his disposal.
Lieutenant‐Colonel Wotherspoon once said of Major Currie that he wasn’t a brilliant tactician, but he was very stubborn. If he was given an order to do something that was within his capabilities, he would do it – period. This stubbornness saw Currie capture St. Lambert, defend it and see his mission out successfully to the end.
MAJOR DAVID VIVIAN CURRIE Major David Currie of the 29th Canadian Armoured Reconnaissance (South Alberta) Regiment was in command of the composite group, consisting of ‘B’ and later ‘C’ companies from the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and ‘C’ Squadron of the South Alberta Regiment, which was tasked to capture Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐Dives. This force consisted of 175 men, of all ranks, along with the 15 tanks of the South Alberta’s and self‐propelled anti‐tank guns of the Divisional Anti‐Tank regiment. THE GERMAN DEFENDERS Over the 36 hours of the battle, as successive On the other side of events, the German armies in waves of German counter‐attacks were made, it Normandy quickly found themselves surrounded was Major Currie’s bravery and cool head that by the actions of Operation Cobra. With the U.S. carried the day. After losing all of his officers during forces to their western and southern flanks, and
10 the British and Canadian forces rolling down from In brief stroke of good luck, the weather turned the north, the German forces attempted to bad, providing cover to the escaping Germans and escape the encirclement through the Falaise area. a moment of respite from the relentless Allied air attack. In a hellish scene, in amongst continuous As the Allies kept gaining ground, the route of artillery bombardment and enemy fire, convoys escape slowly grew smaller. In the end, the moved through what remained of the opening. German army was funnelled through the small From the belfry of the church at St. Lambert the length of land between Trun and Chambios, of commander of the 2nd Panzerdivision, General which Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐Dives was almost directly von Lüttwitz, and the commander of the 47th in the middle of. Armoured Corps, General Straube, directed traffic On the 19th of August Oberst‐Gruppenführer Paul across the bridge and through the town. Hausser, commander of 7.Armee, ordered the breakout from the encirclement for the night of the 19th/ 20th of August. This was to be done in conjunction with II. SS‐Panzerkorps, who were attacking from outside the encirclement, west of Trun. Taking command of all troops inside the encirclement, the orders for the breakout were as follows:
• 3. Fallschirmjägerdivision was to move from its assembly area north of The going was slow, the vehicles backed up in Montabard, at 22.30 hours. It was to jams and enemy artillery fire choked the roads break through the encircling ring at St. with wrecked vehicles and corpses. A charnel Lambert, without firing if possible. stench overlay everything. Those who made it through tried to head south to Chambois, but the • 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend was roads were unusable, filled with twisted wrecks. to hold its northern securing line, then follow 3. Fallschirmjägerdivision after the As they tried to break out and find other escape breakthrough had been achieved. lanes, the weather lifted. These narrow lanes now became death traps, as Allied aircraft resumed • 1st SS Panzer Division Leibstandarte SS their attacks. Rockets would be fired into the lead Adolf Hitler, and 116. Panzerdivision were tanks, trapping entire columns, and as the men to move out after midnight and turned to run they would in turn be cut down by breakthrough at Chambois. The tanks of fire. 12th SS Panzerdivision were to go with them. In the end, there was nowhere to go. The Allies held out, closing the gap for good, trapping the • XXXXVII. Panzerkorps, with 10. SS‐ remains of the German forces, and forcing their Panzerdivision and 2. Panzerdivision surrender. (Heer), and LXXIV. A.K. with 277., 276. and 326 Infantrydivision were to follow securing the rear and flanks.
The 3. Fallschirmjägerdivision was unable to break the encirclement undetected and engaged the 4th Canadian Armoured Division at St. Lambert, attempting to force the passage and bridge open, allowing as much of 7. Armee as possible to escape.
For the next 24 hours they would engage in ferocious fighting with the Argyll’s and SAR, of the 4th CAD, trying to keep the way open.
11 ‐ Saint ‐ Lambert
and
1:25,000) Chambois
Trun,
(Scale
AP M
sur ‐ Dives Falaise, REA A
showing
ALAISE F area,
Falaise
the
of Map
12
CAMPAIGN RULES
13 CLOSING THE GAP The German forces trying to break through came on in waves. First, and most prominent in holding The Closing of the Falaise Gap (or Falaise Pocket as the ground in Saint‐Lambert were 3. it may otherwise be known) spans numerous Fallschirmjägerdivision. Tasked with finding a way locations and involves many forces, represented through St. Lambert and then holding that from many nations, on both sides of the war. From opening, they fought fiercely over two days, the British, American, Canadian, French and Polish allowing as many vehicles and troops through as forces attempting to close the escape routes, to possible. Following them were men from 12th SS the German army groups trying to flee such an Panzer Division Hitlerjugend, XXXXVII. Panzerkorps, encirclement, the race was on. 10. SS‐Panzerdivision, 2. Panzerdivision (Heer), and For this campaign we are focusing on the battle for LXXIV. A.K. Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐Dives. St. Lambert contained The Fallschirmjägers were under gunned, having only one of two bridges capable of supporting no anti‐tank weaponry other than what was able to armour and heavy equipment; as such it was a key be spared by the other fleeing units. position for both the Allies and the Germans. If the Allies could cut off the escape path at St. Lambert, German tanks and heavy equipment would not be able to escape the encirclement and would need to be abandoned.
The Allies attacked St. Lambert using elements of the 4th Canadian Armoured Division, whose job it was to secure the area between Trun and Chambois. The mixed group, consisting of 15 tanks of ‘C’ Squadron from the South Alberta Regiment and 55 men from ‘B’ Company of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, were placed under the command of Major David Currie.
They were ordered to attack and then hold St. Lambert, and after clearing the town on the 19th of August came under constant and fierce attack from the retreating Germans for 36 hours.
14 This campaign has been designed to be played the Germans, becoming encircled is all but using Chain of Command, the World War 2 game inevitable. They are giving their lives holding a from TooFatLardies, and their campaign passage open to let as many men and equipment supplement ‘At the Sharp End’, which contains all as possible to escape. the pertinent rules mentioned in this section. This Whilst in reality, the entire area between Trun and campaign can also be used with other game Chambois was used to make good any escape, the systems, with minor modifications. town of St. Lambert is one of two points where Crossroads: Closing the Gap is a variant of the tanks and heavy equipment could cross. This standard Map Campaign. After the initial Canadian makes it ideal as the focus point for the campaign. push to Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐Dives and the German The Canadians launched their attack of St. Lambert counter‐attack, there are three map locations able from the North East position at Hill 117. Pushing to be selected by the attacking force, each having hard they managed to secure half of the village an overall effect on the campaign. initially, and then completely overran the German defences. After realising they had no explosives to Below is the master campaign map, taken from a blow the bridge over the Dives, they moved back 1:25,000 General Staff map, in April 1944. All the into the centre of town. This is represented by potential battlefields for the campaign have been Campaign Stage 1, which will help set the tone for marked out. This map, along with photographic the rest of the campaign by establishing both the references and modern day images and maps, help number of remaining troops for the Canadians, and piece together the tabletop layouts for each the starting Campaign Morale for the Germans. location.
From that point German Fallschirmjägers attacked As the map shows, the primary locations are in the St. Lambert from the East forcing the way to town of Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐Dives itself, the location remain open. These paratroopers were severely of particularly brutal fighting. Whilst it may not under gunned, lacking their own anti‐tank have accounted for a large area, the stakes were weapons, and needed to rely on the Tanks and AT extremely high for both sides. The Allied campaign capabilities of the escaping Panzer and Grenadier objectives are to block the gap and cause such a companies. This will form Campaign Stage 2, which blow to German morale that they surrender. As for
15 allows the attacker to determine where to make confusion and ferocity seen during this fighting, their point of attack. with counter‐attacks, flank attacks and points of critical high ground being fought over.
STAGE 1
Mission Name Scenario
1 The Road to St. Lambert 2
2 Entering the Town 4
3 Panthers on the Prowl 3
4 Bridge of the River 6 Dives
STAGE 2
Mission Name Scenario
5 The Crossroads 3
6 The Belfry 3
7 Outflanking 5
SETTING UP THE CAMPAIGN Being fought in two stages, the initial push of the Results of the attacks will go towards the overall Canadians to secure St. Lambert needs to be quick German Campaign Morale, and affect the support and without too much loss. The Canadians will be options available. represented by a platoon from the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders ‘B’ Company, with support coming from the tanks of the South Alberta THE CAMPAIGN MISSIONS Regiment ‘C’ Squadron. The master map shows the four lead up missions Both sides of the initial engagement are well covering the Canadian assault of St. Lambert, provisioned, having tanks and anti‐tank which involve the usual patrolling and probing, capabilities. The Canadians will need to be careful, ending with an attack on the bridge over the River however, as the German defenders have had time dives. The three follow up locations of battles to establish defences around St. Lambert. taking place in St. Lambert show more of the The Canadians cannot expect to reinforce their platoon, so casualties need to be kept to a minimum at all times. Additionally, the South Alberta’s had 15 tanks available to reinforce all positions; as such no more than 15 tanks can be used by them over the course of the campaign. Make a note each time a tank is lost or destroyed. This total pool of 15 tanks will be reduced by this amount, slowly reducing the amount of armour available as a support option as the campaign goes on.
The benefit the Canadians have here, however, is a better organisation and a stronger start. The more
16 damage and blow to morale the Canadians can INITIATIVE deal here, the more effect it will have on the German’s Morale in Stage 2. The Canadians will have the initiative for all four initial games. The German forces are handled slightly different. The initial four games will see a Grenadier platoon After the second stage starts, with the German attempting to hold off the Canadian advance, counter‐attack, the Germans will begin with the reducing their strength as much as possible. These Initiative. From there, Initiative will be determined games will see regular force tracking and outlook as usual, via the rules for Initiative in ‘At the Sharp for the troops. There will be no HQ outlook as End’. higher level command has been scattered.
Finally, different locations may provide alternative methods for the Canadians to reduce the German CONSOLIDATING AND Campaign Morale. STRENGTHENING DEFENCES Once the German counter‐attack begins in Stage 2, Neither side may consolidate or strengthen their things become much harder. Becoming slowly defences, as there is simply not enough time or whittled down by a seemingly unending procession leeway given by the enemy. of the enemy, the Canadians must find a way to stand their ground and keep their men alive so as to throw back the tide
Stage 2 will see the German player fielding a Fallschirmjäger platoon. This will be a late war, CASUALTIES, REPLACEMENTS, regular platoon, not the elite Early War version. AND REINFORCEMENTS The Fallschirmjäger’s are under gunned, and will For the Canadian forces, casualties are treated as have no infantry anti‐tank devices available to per ‘At the Sharp End’. The Canadian player will them other than those able to be taken from the need to track this for the duration of the campaign. support lists. The tanks of the S.A.R. are to be tracked separately, In addition, being under constant enemy artillery with any being knocked out remaining unavailable barrage and air attack the German troops are often for the duration of the campaign. scattered and lacking a cohesive platoon, sometimes troops may not be able to make it to The German player is to track casualties for the the battlefield. Coming to their aid, however, are Grenadier platoon in the first four missions, and the men and vehicles of the escaping armies. Some then track the fresh Fallschirmjäger platoon used of these may be requisitioned to help bolster the for the second stage missions. The Fallschirmjäger holes in the German forces. So while the platoon may also suffer from dispersed troops, and Fallschirmjägers will also never be able to expect can be bolstered by units from the escaping replacements, they may use support options to fill German armies. Both sides will be limited in the in the gaps in their defensive lines. number of selections that can be made for support options. In the second stage of the campaign, there will be three locations available to battle over inside St. To reflect the assistance from ‘C’ company of the Lambert itself. The attacking force can decide at Argyll’s, the Canadian platoon will be allowed one which location to attack. Each location will provide set of Replacements at the end of Campaign Stage benefits and hindrances due to terrain or mission 1. These will be sparse, and use a modified effects. The one key condition, however, is that no equation from p20 of ‘At the Sharp End’ location may be attacked twice in a row. A benefit can also be gained by being victorious in all three [(Dead + C.O.’s Rating)/4] + 1d6 locations, one after the other. There are no Reinforcements for either side in this battle.
17 WILDCARDS Support options have been tailored for this campaign. There are no wild card options for this campaign. On the next page you will find the overall Campaign Briefings for both sides. These can be cut out and handed to players and presents the overall ARMY LISTS AND BRIEFINGS situation as the Platoon Leaders would know. The Canadian list uses the standard organisational structure, being based on the British Infantry Platoon list.
Support options will be specific for this campaign, based on the information we have surrounding the battle.
Campaign Stage 1 will see the German forces use a standard Late War Grenadier list for the first four missions.
The second stage counter‐attack missions will use a Late War Fallschirmjäger platoon, of ‘Regular’ Rating, with slight modifications to reflect the lack of anti‐tank weapons.
These lists are based on what we know of the situation at the time, coming from war diaries, pictures and research texts.
18
CANADIAN CAMPAIGN BRIEFING GERMAN CAMPAIGN BRIEFING “The net cast by the Allies is closing and the “The German front in Normandy has collapsed. The German forces are quickly becoming trapped. The last major counter‐attack, Operation Lüttich, was a British and Canadian forces are sealing off the disaster and now our troops have been forced back German escape from the north while the and encircled. With Allied air superiority even Americans envelop them from the south. The movement is difficult, the attacks are relentless. Germans in Normandy are on the back foot, a Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐Dives provides one of the only complete route is at hand and they are looking to bridges capable of supporting the weight of our escape through the only route they have left. Panzers. The British and Canadians are Falaise was a hard won victory; long and grueling. approaching from the north trying to cut us off, After Trun, the 4th Canadian Armoured Division while the 12th SS Panzerdivision perform a was tasked to link up with the Americans at delaying action. Chambois. One of the towns along the way, Saint‐ We must hold the way open so our forces can Lambert‐sur‐Dives, has one of the only bridges in regroup and reorganise at the Seine. Rumour has it the area capable of holding the weight of a tank. that Oberst‐Gruppenführer Hausser has issued the We need to make sure the Germans can’t use it! withdrawal of all German units in the area. We A composite group from the South Alberta should be expecting our men and vehicles to pass Regiment and the Argyll and Sutherland through any day now. We might even be able to Highlanders has been tasked to capture St. expect some support from the men of 3. Lambert and the bridge. We know the enemy is Fallschrimjagerdivision. The Canadian’s are close there, but not in what numbers. Thankfully we now and they will be determined to close the way, have air superiority and our artillery is being we must not let them.” brought up as we speak. We are to go in, clear the In charge of the local defence of Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐ town, then wait for our support to come.” Dives with a Grenadier platoon you need to keep As a platoon leader of the Argyll and Sutherland the bridge and passage across the Dives River, and Highlanders ‘B’ Company, you are under the out of St. Lambert, open. The longer you can hold, command of Major Currie of the South Alberta the more men and machines can escape, and the Regiment. You will need to probe St. Lambert and more can be regrouped at the Sienne River push the enemy out of the town, moving on to rendezvous. Your defences at St. Lambert are secure the bridge. You know the the bridge in St. good, but you are outnumbered and running out of Lambert will be of vital importance. equipment.
You have been involved in heavy fighting Once the evacuating forces begin crossing the previously, but the progress the 4th Armoured has bridge, Fallschrimjagers and Panzers from 12th SS, made keeps the men’s morale up. You are well 1st SS and 116 Panzerdivision’s may be called upon provisioned, but with the line stretched thin you to help. You might even be lucky enough to bolster know you will not have any immediate your numbers with any who will stay and fight. replacements. The Canadian line has a lot of Expect a ferocious battle. Your backs are against ground to cover. the wall, and failure is unforgivable.
You can expect some support, but this will mainly At the start of the campaign, roll normally for the be the Shermans of the S.A.R. Hopefully your outlook of your men. There are no modifiers: they artillery will be in position soon, as the weather is are worried and look to you for guidance, but turning bad which means Allied aircraft may not be otherwise ready for combat. Make sure you steer around for much longer. them straight. There is no roll required for your Commander in this campaign as the command At the start of the campaign, roll for your men’s structure has all but disappeared. Your own outlook outlook, your C.O.’s outlook and your own outlook is rolled as normal, as per P 38 of At the Sharp End. as normal, from At the Sharp End.
19 CAMPAIGN DETAILS The Fallschirmjägers were under gunned when it came to anti‐tank weapons, and will be limited in The Crossroads campaign is fought in two stages. their personal AT weapon choices.
Specific details may be found in the Umpire Notes The German forces are also under heavy air and section if you prefer to play with an umpire. artillery bombardment. As a consequence they STAGE 1: may suffer from ‘dispersed deployment’.
This represents the Canadian push and subsequent The Canadians are being led by stubborn and capture of St. Lambert. The first four missions are inspiring commanders, and will receive a bonus of played in sequential order regardless of the actual +1 to the Force Morale roll for each mission in outcome of the battle. The impetus of the Stage 2. Canadian advance is too much for the weary and Stage 2 incorporates 3 mission areas, Green 5 to 7, battle worn defenders. with associated rules and a German Campaign Force Morale tracker.
To reflect the ongoing rolling battle, the side with the Initiative may select one of the three areas to fight the upcoming battle. The Mission Descriptions below will outline the map, mission to be played, and any further special rules.
No area may be selected twice in a row, even if the What the battle results will do is have a possible Initiative changes sides. whittling down effect on the Canadian force (as well as affecting the CO and troop’s opinions), and The result of each game will help represent the it will help set the starting position for the German morale sapping struggle that was occurring, as Campaign Morale Tracker in Stage 2. defiant German troops tried desperately to hold the lines of retreat open. As a result not only will Stage 1 will see the German player playing a winning and losing matter, but the manner in Grenadier Platoon for the first four games. which an encounter is won may have a follow on The Canadians have the Initiative for the first 4 impact. games as the Germans pull back and affect a fighting retreat, holding the bridge open.
STAGE 2:
This stage represents the counter‐attack and last ditch effort by the German forces to keep the road through St. Lambert open.
The German player will be playing a Fallschirmjäger platoon of the ‘Regular’ training level for Stage 2 and will have the Initiative for the first game.
20 CANADIAN SUPPORT LIST
CANADA LIST ONE INFANTRY PLATOON Sticky Bomb or similar
This force is used throughout both stages of the Medical Orderly campaign, and is rated as Regular. Jeep or Car, no crew
COMMAND DICE: 5 Entrenchments for one Team
PLATOON HEADQUARTERS LIST TWO
Lieutenant, Senior Leader armed with Sten Roadblock
Platoon Sergeant, Senior Leader, armed with PIAT Team, 2 men Sten 2” mortar Team, 2 men
PIAT Team, 2 men Pre‐Game Barrage
2” mortar Team, 2 men LIST THREE
Allied Air Support
SECTIONS ONE TO THREE Sniper Team
Corporal, Junior Leader armed with Sten Universal Carrier with Team and Junior Leader LMG TEAM RIFLE TEAM LIST FOUR Bren Gun Six riflemen Three crew Regular Vickers MMG on tripod mount, 5 crew
National Characteristics are the same as those Forward Observer and 3” mortar battery listed in the main rule book for a British force: Five Rounds Rapid! and Concentrated Fire. Regular Infantry Squad with Junior Leader
LIST FIVE SUPPORT OPTIONS Recce Section of two Universal Carriers, 4 crew The following support list is used for this campaign, each. One Junior Leader representing the assets available to the LIST SIX battlegroup from the 4th Armoured Division during their attack on Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐Dives. M4 Sherman with Junior Leader
Support Options highlighted in Orange are only LIST SEVEN available for selection in Stage 1. Options highlighted in Green are only available in Stage 2. M10 Achilles with Junior Leader
The support options listed are the same as those in STAGE 1 ONLY the main Chain of Command rule book, with the same specific rules applying. STAGE 2 ONLY Any changes or options unique to this campaign will be detailed below.
21 M4 Sherman For each scenario this is selected, prior to the game starting, the enemy randomly selects one of his The Sherman’s of the South Alberta Regiment ‘C’ squads. Squadron are of a finite number. ‘C’ Squadron contains 15 Sherman’s, and any wrecked or Roll 1 dice to see what effect this has on the abandoned vehicles must be recorded. selected squad
DICE EFFECT
1 Squad Missing
2 Squad Missing
3 Squad Missing
4 Team Missing
5 Team Missing
6 No Effect. All Present
M10 Achilles
Major Currie’s battlegroup had the support of a Squad Missing: The selected squad has been troop of M10 Self Propelled Anti‐Tank vehicles as it dispersed by the Allied Air attack and will not be entered St. Lambert. This troop then withdrew to present for this game. RHQ. Team Missing: One of the teams in a squad has To represent this, four M10’s are available in Stage been dispersed and will not take part in this game. 1 of the Campaign. Any wrecked or abandoned The team should be chosen at random if there is vehicles must be recorded, as they are a finite more than one team in the squad. resource. Of course if the squad only has one team, this will Pre‐Game Barrage be the one absent.
Canadian Artillery was ever present during the No Effect. All Present: The troops have managed to German counterattack of St. Lambert. narrowly avoid the Allied Air attack, and have made If the Pre‐Game Barrage is selected then it their way to the lines. combines its effect to the already present Barrage They will take part in this battle normally. in effect during Stage 2.
This increases the Barrage effect, and works as a normal pre‐game barrage, but the enemy Units attempting to deploy onto the table in the first Turn roll with a ‐1 on their dice.
Allied Air Support
The Allies dominated the skies during the events of the Falaise Gap.
If Allied Air Support is chosen then your position has been noticed as having a large concentration of enemy forces, and friendly fighters have taken it into their hands to disperse the enemy.
22 FALLSCHIRMJÄGER PLATOON GERMANY This force is used throughout Stage Two of the campaign, and is rated as Regular. INFANTRY PLATOON COMMAND DICE: 5 This force is used throughout Stage One of the campaign, and is rated as Regular. PLATOON HEADQUARTERS
COMMAND DICE: 5 Leutnant, Senior Leader armed with a machine‐pistol PLATOON HEADQUARTERS Unteroffizier, Senior Leader, with machine Unterfeldwebel, Senior Leader armed with a pistol machine‐pistol SQUADS ONE TO THREE Panzerschreck Team, 2 man crew Obergefreiter, Junior Leader armed with a
machine pistol
SQUADS ONE TO THREE LMG TEAM RIFLE TEAM Obergefreiter, Junior Leader armed with a MG 42 MG 42 machine pistol, one Panzerfaust Three crew Three crew LMG TEAM RIFLE TEAM 1 Rifleman 1 Rifleman 1 man with machine MG 42 Six riflemen pistol Three crew
National Characteristics for both the Infantry Platoon and Fallschirmjäger Platoon are the same as those listed in the main rule book for a German force: Maschinengewehr and Handgranaten!
SUPPORT OPTIONS The following support list is used for this campaign, representing the assets available to German defenders in Saint‐Lambert‐sur‐ Dives.
Support Options highlighted in Orange are only available for selection in Stage 1. Options highlighted in Green are only available in Stage 2.
STAGE 1 ONLY
STAGE 2 ONLY
23 GERMAN SUPPORT LIST LIST SIX
LIST ONE SdKfz 250/9 with Junior Leader
Single Compound Charge or similar LIST SEVEN
Two Panzerfausts Pak 40 with 5 crew and a Junior Leader
Medical Orderly Panzer IV G/H with Junior Leader
Adjutant StuG III G with Junior Leader
Entrenchments for one Team LIST EIGHT
Schwimmwagen or Kubelwagen, no crew Pak 43 anti‐tank gun, 5 crew and Junior Leader LIST TWO LIST TEN Roadblock Panther with Junior Leader Panzerschreck Team, 2 men Tiger I with Junior Leader 5cm mortar Team, 2 men
Panzerknacker Team, 4 men The support list options listed are the same as Senior Leader those in the main Chain of Command rule book, LIST THREE with the same specific rules applying.
SdKfz 251, no weapons Any changes, or options unique to this campaign, will be detailed below. Sniper Team Panzerfaust Green Infantry Squad with Junior Leader The Fallschirmjäger’s launching the counter‐attack SdKfz 250 with four man Reconnaissance on St. Lambert were critically low on anti‐tank Team weapons, if they had any at all.
LIST FOUR By selecting the Panzerfaust option, for One Support point, two Panzerfausts may be Regular MG 42 on tripod mount, 5 crew distributed amongst any squads or teams as Regular Infantry Squad with Junior Leader desired (that means one squad can have both Panzerfausts, or two squads can have a LIST FIVE Panzerfaust each). This option can be selected Pak 38 anti‐tank gun, 5 crew and Junior multiple times, each selection providing two Leader Panzerfausts, which can be distributed as per the above. Regular Fallschirmjäger Squad with Junior Leader This represents the Fallschirmjäger platoon scrounging AT Infantry weapons from any fleeing Regular Panzergrenadier Squad with Junior German units. Leader
24 CAMPAIGN ARSENAL The following table is used for the campaign, and come from the Chain of Command rulebook at the time of printing.
For other weapons, consult the main rules.
CAMPAIGN ARSENAL TABLE
ARMOURED VEHICLES VEHICLE ARMOUR A.P. H.E. SPEED NOTES M4 Sherman 6 7 6 Average Ronson
M10 Achilles 4 12 1 Average No H.E., No Hull MG
Panzer IV G/H 6 9 5 Average
Panther 11 12 5 Fast
Tiger I 11 12 7 Slow Slow Turret, Heavy Armour
StuG III G 7 9 5 Average Low Profile
TRANSPORT VEHICLES
VEHICLE ARMOUR A.P. H.E. SPEED NOTES
Kubelwagen/ Jeep 0 ‐ ‐ Wheeled Open Top
Universal Carrier 2 As Weapon Fast Low Profile, Small
SdKfz 250 2 MG Fast Open Body
SdKfz 251 2 MG Fast Open Body
ANTI‐TANK WEAPONS
ANTI‐TANK WEAPONS A.P H.E
5cm Pak 38 7 3
7.5cm Pak 40 9 5
8.8cm Pak 43 16 7
25
SCENARIOS AND NOTES
26 SCENARIOS Most of the St. Lambert buildings are stone, and are well built. They should be treated as hard The scenarios in this campaign book are not cover. designed to be perfectly balanced, however the overall campaign has attempted to provide Light grey walls are medium obstacles and will balance such that either side is capable of winning provide some cover. Dark grey walls are high the overall campaign. walls, and are considered major obstacles. These walls are about 8’ to 10’ high, and only fully The size of the forces are not explicitly presented tracked vehicles are able to dive through them. for each scenario, the basic force is represented, This will present a risk of bogging down. with the associated Force Rating, and then Support Options are further available using the SCENARIO NOTES standard rules. Any bonus Support Option details All of the scenarios have been designed with a will be provided in each Scenario, and the support minimum of notes. The campaign backdrop option lists are detailed in the Force Lists above. should set the scene for each game. Just one GENERAL TERRAIN NOTES sheet is required to be printed for each scenario, showing the map, support options and special Any terrain specific to a scenario will be presented information for each player. in the scenario overview. There are however some general notes which are worthwhile mentioning, Each map will show the deployment areas for the for this area of Normandy. Patrol Markers, which may be deployed as the player wishes in accordance to the rules. St. Lambert is a rural area, but it is not part of the bocage country. That means hedges are not The scenarios used are straight from the Chain of impenetrable, but they do block line of sight. Command rulebook. Any special rules for a Troops within 2" of a hedge may be seen through scenario will be present either in the mission, or it, but further away they are invisible and may not as notes in the ‘Umpire’s Notes’ section. Below be targeted. Moving through such hedges counts are the briefings which may be distributed to the as a Medium Obstacle. players.
Grey roads are cobbled or metalled. Historic pictures show the roads in St. Lambert were wide enough for two tanks to pass each other, so this is allowed.
Tan coloured roads are dirt, while tan coloured areas dirt or worn spots. The weather for the most part was fine during the attack on St. Lambert, so all dirt roads and areas will be hard enough to not cause any movement issues. The dirt roads were narrow however, allowing only one armoured fighting vehicle, or two cars, to drive on them at a time.
Orchards make up the primary woodland at St. Lambert, planted in either a regular pattern or otherwise.
Orchards shown as a regular pattern should be treated as a normal orchard as per the rules. Irregular patterned orchards should be treated as woods.
27 Scenario Orange One
THE ROAD TO ST. LAMBERT Background
The Canadian combined force is probing the entry to St. Lambert, looking to gauge the enemy strength and assess the best point of entry.
Patrol Phase Deployment
This Scenario is played using Scenario Two: The Probe, from the Chain of Command rule book. The initial Canadian and German deployment options are shown on the map above. The German player deploys four Patrol Markers within 12” of his table edge. The Canadian player may choose to deploy either three or four Patrol Markers, all being placed on the road, as shown.
Canadian Forces
The Canadian player has eight support points available for this scenario.
German Forces
The German player has four support points available for this scenario.
28 Scenario Orange Two
ENTERING THE TOWN Background
Major Currie’s battlegroup attempts to enter St. Lambert shortly after dawn on the 19th. The straggle of stone houses on both sides of the road is an uninviting task. The German force is well positioned, and enemy tanks can be seen in between the houses.
Patrol Phase Deployment
This Scenario is played using Scenario Four: A Delaying Action, from the Chain of Command rule book. The initial Canadian and German deployment options are shown on the map above.
Canadian Forces
The Canadian player has nine support points available for this scenario. In addition, the Canadian player has the use of one Sherman tank for no support cost.
German Forces
The German player has four support points available for this scenario. In addition, the German player is able to deploy one Panzer IV tank at the location indicated on the map (the Armour symbol) at no support cost.
29 Scenario Orange Three
PANTHERS ON THE PROWL! Background
The Canadians have made it into the towns centre. Capturing this pivotal point will force the German defenders back to the bridge. This will not be a pushover.
Patrol Phase Deployment
This Scenario is played using Scenario Three: Attack and Defend, from the Chain of Command rule book. The initial Canadian and German deployment options are shown on the map above.
Canadian Forces
The Canadian player has sixteen support points available for this scenario.
German Forces
The German player has three support points available for this scenario. In addition, the German player is able to deploy one Panther tank at the location indicated on the map (the Armour symbol) at no support cost.
30 Scenario Orange Four
BRIDGE OVER THE RIVER DIVES Background
The bridge crossing sur Dives is of great strategic importance to both sides. The German forces are preparing to sell themselves dearly. The Canadians will stop at nothing to make sure the bridge cannot be used.
Patrol Phase Deployment
This Scenario is played using Scenario Six: Attack on an Objective, from the Chain of Command rule book. The initial Canadian and German deployment options are shown on the map above. The German player deploys four Patrol Markers on the Objective (marked bridge). The Canadian player may choose to deploy either three or four Patrol Markers, along their friendly edge, as per the scenario in the rulebook.
Canadian Forces
The Canadian player has twelve support points available for this scenario.
Capturing the Bridge Objective is important for the Canadian forces.
German Forces
The German player has six support points available for this scenario.
Holding the Bridge Objective is vital for the German Forces.
31 Scenario Green Five
THE CROSSROADS Background
This counterattack is occurring in the heart of the town. These crossroads contain all the major roads through the town. Driving the enemy out from the town centre will help solidify your hold on St. Lambert.
Patrol Phase Deployment
This Scenario is played using Scenario Three: Attack and Defend, from the Chain of Command rule book. The deployment area shown above is used when the German’s have the initiative and are the attacker. The small map to the side shows the alternate deployment zone for when the Canadians are the attacker.
Canadian Forces
If the Canadian forces are attacking, they have eighteen support points available for this scenario.
If they are defending, they will have eleven support points available
German Forces
The German player has fourteen support points available for this scenario if they are attacking
If they are defending they will have seven points available
32 Scenario Green Six
THE BELFRY Background
The Belfry of the local church offers a commanding view of the bridge and roads through St. Lambert. The Belfry gives an important strategic vantage to the side which can hold it.
Patrol Phase Deployment
This Scenario is played using Scenario Three: Attack and Defend, from the Chain of Command rule book. The deployment area shown above is used when the German’s have the initiative and are the attacker. The small map to the side shows the alternate deployment zone for when the Canadians are the attacker.
Canadian Forces
If the Canadian forces are attacking, they have fourteen support points available for this scenario.
If they are defending, they will have nine support points available
German Forces
The German player has ten support points available for this scenario if they are attacking
If they are defending they will have five points available
33 Scenario Green Seven
OUTFLANKING Background
The northern area of the town allows both sides manoeuvring room not seen in the southern and western edges. This gives a chance for either side to attempt to outflank the enemy.
Patrol Phase Deployment
This is Scenario Five in the main rule book and all deployment is precisely as stated there. The initial Patrol Marker deployment options are shown on the image above. The deployment area shown above is used when the German’s have the initiative and are the attacker. The small map to the side shows the alternate deployment zone for when the Canadians are the attacker.
Canadian Forces
If the Canadian forces are attacking, they have sixteen support points available for this scenario.
If they are defending, they will have nine support points available
German Forces
The German player has twelve support points available for this scenario if they are attacking
If they are defending they will have six points available
34 UMPIRE’S SCENARIO NOTES Scenario Orange 3 Notes There are specific events that occur throughout the The Canadian player has a secondary objective to campaign of which the players need to be made destroy the Panther tank prowling between the aware. buildings. If the Panther is destroyed or abandoned, the Campaign Tracker is reduced by an If an Umpire is running the campaign, this section additional 2 points. is for their eyes only. If there is no Umpire, both players should read the notes for each Scenario Scenario Orange 4 Notes prior to playing. The bridge is a vital objective for both sides. The side that wins this encounter will move the CAMPAIGN STAGE 1 Campaign Tracker by an additional 1 point in the (Scenarios Orange 1 to 4) direction favourable to them.
The initial four missions are played sequentially, no CAMPAIGN STAGE 2 matter who wins each mission. The Canadian forces always have the Initiative and are (Scenarios Green 5 to 7) considered the attackers. Stage 2 starts with the Germans having Initiative Neither side has the option to halt or bolster and selecting the first scenario location. They will defences. be the attacker.
Any losses taken by the Canadians will be in effect Neither side has the option to halt or bolster for the entire Campaign. They are not able to be defences. reinforced, although they will have one lot of The winner of a scenario will have the Initiative for replacements arrive at the end of Stage 1. They the next scenario, will count as the attacker, and also have the option of selecting infantry squads in may select the encounter location. Stage 2. A reminder that no location may be selected twice The results of each scenario will modify the in a row, by either side. Campaign Morale Tracker for the Germans, and help set its starting level for Stage 2. Scenario Green 5 Notes
In each Stage 1 Scenario: No additional gameplay notes are needed for this mission. • If the Canadians win, the starting Campaign Tracker for Stage 2 will be Scenario Green 6 Notes reduced by 1 Point. The church belfry gives a commanding view of the • If the Germans win, the starting Campaign area, especially the roads through St. Lambert. Tracker for Stage 2 will be increased by 1 The Belfry (or section of the church closest to the Point. belfry) acts as a jump off point (JoP) to whichever Scenario Orange 1 side captures it. This JoP starts each mission as neutral, belonging to no side, to help reflect the The Tracker is decreased by an additional 1 point if frantic ebb and flow of battle. the Canadian unit making it off the table edge is either a Sherman tank or belongs to the base The normal rules in Chain of Command about platoon (i.e. is not a support choice). capturing Jump Off Points apply, except that instead of removing an enemy JoP when captured, Scenario Orange 2 Notes it becomes a JoP for the capturing side.
In addition, the German forces are able to add a This JoP is able to be used like normal, and rolls for further 1 point to the Campaign Tracker for each ‘Bad Things Happen’ apply if you own the JoP and Sherman that is knocked out or abandoned. it is captured.
This JoP may change hands any number of times.
35 If the side which wins the scenario has also Stage 2: to determine the amount the Campaign captured the Belfry JoP, they may add 2 points to Tracker moves, and in which direction, the the direction the Morale Tracker moves. following is used:
Scenario Green 7 Notes • Determine the difference in force morale between the two sides at the end of a The outflanking manoeuvres of this scenario scenario. Once calculated, halve that location allow easier access for troops to reach the amount, to a minimum of 2 points. This is other locations. the change in the Campaign Tracker. The side which holds this location (i.e. the side • The direction the tracker moves is in the which last won this scenario), may add 1 support direction favourable to the winning force point to the battles in any other location in Stage 2. (i.e. the tracker increases after a German CAMPAIGN MORALE TRACKER win, and decreases after a Canadian win). One of the primary means for determining who If the result is a draw, or the winner has a lower wins the Campaign is the Campaign Morale force morale than the loser, there will be no Tracker. change in the Campaign Tracker
The German army was encircled, badly mauled and Both players are privy to the level of the Campaign on the run when they began flooding through St. Morale Tracker at all times. Lambert. Although they are trying to hold the way CAMPAIGN MORAL TRACKER MODIFIERS open, the events are morale‐sapping. They are Morale Tracker Starting Value: 10 under constant air and artillery attack, watching as (check following conditions at end of battle) their beaten and bloodied kamerads are fleeing. Higher Campaign Morale is better for Germany Lower Campaign Morale is better for Canada To represent the ongoing morale effect over the Scenario Cause Mod. course of the campaign, Stage 2 introduces a STAGE 1 Canada Scenario Victory ‐1 per Campaign Morale Tracker for the German forces. (Orange 1 – 4) victory This Campaign Morale Tracker will initially be set Germany Scenario +1 per to 10 when Stage 2 of the Campaign begins. Victory (Orange 1 – 4) victory Orange 1 Canadian Sherman or ‐1 This starting number will be modified by additional base Platoon team off morale penalties or bonuses provided by the Orange 2 Per Sherman destroyed +1 results of Stage 1 (Scenarios Orange 1 to 4). Orange 3 Panther Destroyed ‐2 Orange 4 Canadians captured ‐1 The level of the Campaign Tracker at the start of Bridge Objective Stage 2, after modifications, will be the maximum Germans captured Bridge +1 points that the tracker can reach for the duration Objective of the campaign. STAGE 2 Determine difference in +/‐
36 WINNING THE CAMPAIGN “You have held out. Although it is inevitable your position will fall, you have Historically the fighting was so intense and resisted long enough to let a significant confused that neither side could predict the result amount of vehicles and troops retreat. The until things suddenly came to a halt. positions at the Seine will be well Both players know their mission is vital and will be reinforced” aware that the Campaign Morale Tracker is 3. If either side successfully wins three tracking the resistance of the German forces. games in a row, one at each Stage 2 Both players will also be aware of exactly where location, that side has forced back the the Campaign Morale Tracker sits. other sufficiently to be considered to completely hold St. Lambert and the There are three ways the campaign may be won: corresponding roads. That side will win the Campaign. 1. If the Campaign Morale Tracker ever reaches 0, the Germans have been “Your troops and support have marshalled overwhelmed and give up. They surrender strongly. With a number of quick decisive to the Canadians and the Gap is closed. The action you have all but cleared the town of Canadians will have won. the enemy, and control the vital roadways”
“The spirit of the German resistance in St. If any of the above victory conditions occur at the Lambert has been shattered, unable to same time, in such a way that they would cancel beat the staunch Canadian Defence. The each other out, then the Campaign will be Gap is closed, and the German army is considered a draw. surrendering en masse” “The Germans have surrendered, but more 2. Stage 2 will last for a maximum of 5 retreating troops have made good their escape games, after which the Germans have than you hoped. The Canadian battlegroup has been able to hold the Gap open long taken heavy casualties trying to stop the flow. They enough to allow sufficient vehicles and will be an ineffective fighting force for the troops through to help reinforce the foreseeable future.” positions at the Seine River. The Germans will be considered victorious.
37 GAME SYSTEMS Infantry Platoon Crossroads, Closing the Gap is designed to be The Primary Platoon is from the Argyll and played with Chain of Command, using ‘At the Sutherland Highlanders (as per the Campaign Sharp End’ as the campaign management system. Rules) – Force Rating 0.
As such is it designed to be a Platoon+ level game, Further Infantry Platoon will either be from the although this does not mean it is not suitable to be selections below and will be arranged as per the played using other scales or systems. The Campaign Rules, with a Force Rating 0. information and scenarios presented above can be the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, up used to form the basis of games. to 4 Platoon is total including the Primary Whilst not claiming to be an expert in game Force, systems, I have tried to provide some guidance in Lincoln and Welland Regiment, up to 2 incorporating the Crossroads Campaign in other Platoons. ways. Sherman Troop In all cases, when modifying any of the All Sherman Troops are from the South Alberta information, please try and remember the Regiment and have Force Rating +4. background as much as possible and make any changes in the spirit of the Campaign. M4 SHERMAN TROOP M4 Sherman with Senior Leader The Force Lists presented for the campaign should M4 Sherman with Junior Leader provide a good reference as to the types of vehicle M4 Sherman with Junior Leader and support options available. M4 Sherman with Junior Leader BIG CHAIN OF COMMAND The S.A.R. Troop consists of four M4 Sherman 75mm tanks, with one tank nominated as the lead Rules made available online and can be found here: tank being commanded by a Senior Leader. The http://toofatlardies.co.uk/blog/?p=3013 other tanks are commanded by Junior Leaders. There are four Troops and an HQ Troop of 3 Tanks. Adapting this campaign to use Big Chain of Command is relatively simple and would fit the Remember that ‘C’ Squadron was limited to 15 campaign background well. Sherman tanks. Any vehicles losses must be recorded. This number includes any Sherman tanks The following forces are recommended, with the taken as Support Options for any force. associated Force Rating. M10 Troop In addition, it is recommended to leave the Support Points as is for each scenario, and simply make any In Stage 1 only it is possible to field the M10 troop adjustments based on the difference between as a unified force, with Force Rating +6. Force Ratings of any additional platoons or M10 ACHILLES TROOP squadrons after the first. M10 Achilles with Senior Leader CANADA M10 Achilles with Junior Leader M10 Achilles with Junior Leader The below table shows which forces can be M10 Achilles with Junior Leader selected in which order. One vehicle is to be nominated as the lead vehicle and is commanded by a Senior Leader. The others STAGE ONE AND TWO are commanded by Junior Leaders. PRIMARY FORCE Infantry Platoon SECONDARY FORCE M4 Sherman Remember there was only one troop of M10’s Squadron available to the battlegroup. As such there are four ANY FURTHER FORCES Infantry Platoon OR M10’s that can be used. This number includes any M4 Sherman Sqd OR M10’s taken as Support Options for any force, and M10 Achilles Troop any vehicle losses must be recorded.
38 GERMANY The other 3 tanks are commanded by Junior Leaders. The below table shows which forces can be selected in which order. This is a very limited squadron, there are no replacements if a tank is destroyed. If a tank is lost, STAGE ONE the next time this Armour squadron is selected it PRIMARY FORCE Infantry Platoon will be without any previously lost tanks. As a SECONDARY FORCE Mixed Armour result, determine the new Force Rating as per the TAGE WO S T Big Chain of Command rules. PRIMARY FORCE Fallschirmjäger Platoon Fallschirmjäger Platoon ANY FURTHER FORCES Infantry Platoon OR Retreating Armour A standard Fallschirmjäger Platoon (as per the OR Campaign Rules) – Force Rating 4. Fallschirmjäger Retreating Armour Platoon This squadron is hastily put together from vehicles retreating of the bridge at St. Lambert, and is most Infantry Platoon likely not from the same unit. It consists of 4 tanks A standard Heer Infantry Platoon (as per the and may be selected from the following: Campaign Rules) – Force Rating 0. RETREATING ARMOUR Mixed Armour Panzer IV G/H OR StuG III F/G with Junior Leader The Mixed Armour squadron for Stage 1 consists of Panzer IV G/H OR StuG III F/G with Junior three Panzer IV tanks and either a Tiger or Panther Leader tank – Force Rating +8. Panzer IV G/H OR Tiger I OR Panther with MIXED ARMOUR Junior Leader Panzer IV G/H with Senior Leader Panzer IV G/H OR Tiger I OR Panther with Panzer IV G/H with Junior Leader Junior Leader To determine the Force Rating of the squadron, Panzer IV G/H with Junior Leader and who the Senior Leader is please refer to the Big Tiger I or Panther with Junior Leader One Panzer IV tank should be nominated as the Chain of Command rules. lead tank being, commanded by a Senior Leader.
39 BOLT ACTION FLAMES OF WAR
For Bolt Action games I would suggest standard For Flames of War games I would suggest standard 1000 point forces. The Force composition laid out 1750 to 2000 point forces. in the campaign rules provide a good indication of Force composition recommendations are as how each force should be constructed. follows (please use the closest army lists possible if Chain of Command frequently uses game tables the recommended books become out of date): where either long or short edge can be used as a starting edge. This may not always fit Bolt Action, STAGE ONE in a scenario where it is recommended to start on CANADIAN 10 CIB & South Alberta FORCE Regiment (Canadian short edges, feel free to use the master St. Lambert Armoured Recce Squadron) map to adjust the map as appropriate. from Turning Tide P95. For changes to the Campaign Morale Tracker, Major David V Currie, VC may also be used. CAMPAIGN MORALE TRACKER One Anti‐Tank Platoon (SP), STAGE ONE Royal Artillery may also be Remains the same as the base campaign. taken. (from Turning Tide STAGE TWO P114). Determined the winner as per the mission rules. GERMAN Grenadierkompanie from Find the points difference between the two FORCE Earth and Steel P130. (no sides, of any destroyed units. Then for each 200 access Armour support points difference move the Tracker one point in platoons). the direction favourable to the winner. Additional option to take one Any drawn games (or negative points difference) unit from 501. Schwere see the Tracker remain unchanged. Panzer Platoon with a mix of As Bolt Action has a different set of missions, I Tiger Is, Panthers and a Panzer IV J (from Bridge at would suggest the following changes. Remagen) MISSION ALTERNATIVES STAGE TWO STAGE ONE CANADIAN 10 CIB & South Alberta Orange 1 Bolt Action Scenario 2: FORCE Regiment (Canadian Maximum Attrition Armoured Recce Squdron) Orange 2 Bolt Action Scenario 5: from Turning Tide P95. Top Secret Major David V Currie, VC may (Use a knocked out Sherman as also be used. the objective, task is to rescue GERMAN 3 Fallschirmjägerdivision the crew) FORCE (Fallschirmjägerkompanie) Canadians must take a Sherman from Earth and Steel P194. Germans must take a Pz IV Additional option to take one Orange 3 Bolt Action Scenario 2: unit from 501. Schwere Maximum Attrition Panzer Platoon with a mix of Germans must take a Panther Tiger Is, Panthers and a Orange 4 Bolt Action Scenario 3: Panzer IV J (from Bridge at Point Defence Remagen) (Bridge is one objective, footbridge a second) Chain of Command frequently uses game tables STAGE TWO where either long or short edge can be used as a Green 5 Bolt Action Scenario 2: starting edge. This may not always fit Flames of Maximum Attrition War missions, in a scenario where it is Green 6 Bolt Action Scenario 4: recommended to start on short edges, feel free to Hold Until Relieved use the Master St. Lambert map to adjust the map Green 7 Bolt Action Scenario 1: as appropriate. Envelopment
40 For changes to the Campaign Morale Tracker, I would suggest the following changes, based on further research of forces. CAMPAIGN MORALE TRACKER STAGE ONE CANADA Remains the same as the base campaign. • Remove the Firefly from Tank Troop TAGE WO S T Option 1 completely Tracker moves the number of points indicated below, in the direction favourable to the winner • Remove the Firefly from Tank Troop Stunning Victory 4 points Option 2 and replace it with another M4 Major Victory 3 points Sherman. Minor Victory 2 points Any drawn games see the Tracker remain • Add an M10 Achilles Troop Option unchanged. M10 ACHILLES TROOP
One Big Man Level II As Flames of War has a different set of missions, I Four M10 Achilles Self Propelled Anti‐Tank would suggest the following changes. Guns
MISSION ALTERNATIVES GERMANY STAGE ONE Orange 1 Flames of War Mission: • Add and Anti‐Tank Zug Encounter Orange 2 Flames of War Mission: ANTI‐TANK ZUG Fighting Withdrawal One Big Man Level II Orange 3 Flames of War Mission: Two Pak 43 AT guns with 5 crew each No Retreat Orange 4 Flames of War Mission: Hold the line An alternative option would be to play through the STAGE TWO scenarios above, using the IABSM rules and using Green 5 Flames of War Mission: the forces mentioned above. Free for All Remember to remove the Canadian M10 troop for Green 6 Flames of War Mission: Stage 2. I would recommend replacing the M10 Hasty Attack troop with a 3rd Platoon, identical to the 2nd Green 7 Flames of War Mission: Platoon. Breakthrough GENERAL DESIGN NOTES & THOUGHTS I have added my thoughts about how and why the campaign was constructed the way it is. Research turned up a lot of conflicting information in places, although reports do generally seem to support one variation more than the rest in most cases.
I have tried to stay as true to the events as they occurred, and as accurate as possible with the Scenario Maps.
The maps are all taken from a 1:25,000 map, sized I AINT’T BEEN SHOT MUM appropriated for a 6’ x 4’ table, where 12” equals 40 yards. The resultant area was then used as a A scenario already exists for I Ain’t Been Shot Mum backdrop and map details were superimposed over rd (IABSM) 3 Edition rulebook (Scenario 4, A the top. Canadian V.C.) and will allow you to play a company scale battle across half the town.
41 In both cases, slight modifications have been There seems to be some difference of opinion, but required to make the campaign playable and a lot of corresponding records note that the 29th, enjoyable. Certain liberties have also been taken as a recce force, had 3 troops of 4 tanks along with where information was sparse or non‐existent. a command troop of 3 tanks giving the squadron 15 tanks overall. The game stats are taking from the Chain of Command rules as at the time of its printing, and Instead it seems like the 29th had the use of a troop using the most up to date CoCulator. Should any of M10 self‐propelled anti‐tank guns, made official changes be made in the future, this available from the 5th Anti‐tank Regiment, RCA. document will be updated to reflect those changes The 5th ATR, RCA was equipped with 17pdr M10’s (Vehicle Arsenal for example) however they were only present in the attack on St. Lambert, and stayed outside the town. Given the above here are some thoughts and findings I have on the subject. The M10’s left the battlegroup and moved back to Regiment HQ, on Hill 117, after St. Lambert was The battle at St. Lambert was instrumental in captured (at the end of Stage 1). closing the Falaise Gap. In truth there were many small units of troops trying to cross the Dives River There is very little information on the German wherever they could. They were subject to defenders of St. Lambert. There is no mention of punishing fire from artillery, aircraft, vehicles and them being from the 12 SS Panzerdivision, so I have troops. The destruction was on a scale rarely seen. presumed they were more of a standard infantry platoon, with a variety of options. Representing this in a campaign was challenging, as there seems to clearly be two parts to the battle. The War Diaries of the 29th and Argyll’s indicate that both a German Mk IV and a Panther were The attack on St. Lambert, as the Canadian destroyed reasonably early on, and that another battlegroup pushed the German defenders out, is Mk IV was destroyed a little later. represented by Stage 1. This stage, while still hard fought, seemed to have the German defenders The war diaries also suggest that there were retreating and even though there was resistance German 88’s in the town, as these knocked out a the Canadian force was able to clear the village out. number of Shermans.
This is represented by Stage 1 scenarios occurring Once the Canadian battlegroup cleared the town in sequential order, regardless of the outcome. and made it to the bridge, they found they had no Instead of battling back and forth, the bonuses for explosives so were unable to blow it up. This led to winning will affect the morale of the German forces the gruelling Stage 2 of the campaign. in Stage 2. This means the results of the four Stage Stage 2 of the campaign, and what I have called the 1 battles are still important, as if either side finds German counter‐attack, really seems to be the themselves giving too many Campaign Tracker infiltration of small units into St. Lambert with the modifications away to the enemy it will make Stage 3. Fallschrimjägerdivision in the lead attempting to 2 all that much more difficult. scout out any weaknesses to exploit in the Historically the Canadian battlegroup consisted of Canadian defence. From their position were unable an understrength company, of 55 men, from the to find any and thought St. Lambert was very well Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. They looked to defended. be equipped as a standard infantry company, and After this infiltration German units started arriving hitched a ride on the Shermans of the S.A.R. initially in dribs and drabs until in time entire The South Alberta Regiment (29th Armoured Recce columns were waiting to cross the bridge, or were Regiment) was the only regiment to not have flooding the Dives River trying to get across. mixed tank troops of Shermans and Firefly’s. The There is no real account of specific units defending 29th did not receive Firefly’s until September 1944, the bridge at St. Lambert and keeping the way which is why they are not present in the force list open. It is acceptable to suggest that a platoon of for this campaign. Fallschirmjäger would have been present.
42 During questioning, Kurt Meyer mentioned that he from the support options, as opposed to obtaining could see Fallschirmjäger squads fighting in St. full reinforcements. Reports suggest the Canadian Lambert and trying to keep away from the battlegroup may have been outnumbered 50:1, Sherman tanks of the Canadians as they had no luckily many of the German units were more willing anti‐tank weapons. to surrender than fight.
In order to balance this for the campaign, I feel it is Overall, the accounts of the battle indicate reasonable to think these defenders would try and extreme confusion, and a mass of German troops call upon retreating forces to help them, or at least retreating wherever and however they could, supply them with weapons and ammunition. This is trying to cross the Dives River before it was represented by the removal of all infantry anti‐tank altogether closed. weapons in the base Fallschirmjäger platoon, but In order to preserve some structure to the allow them to be selected as support options. campaign, I decided to stick with set forces for There were also many vehicles, from transports to Stage 1 and Stage 2. The ability to take a wide array tanks, attempting to cross the bridge at St. of support options for the German forces Lambert. I also think it is reasonable that some of represents the scattered options available from these would have turned their attention to help the retreating army. where possible. There is a record, in the War The Canadian battlegroup seems to be more Diaries of the S.A.R., of a Tiger being destroyed as detailed in its composition, and as such I have it tried to hold the main crossroads. reflected this in their support options. Major Currie made repeated calls for backup, and Hopefully this leads to a campaign which finally was assigned ‘B’ Company of the Argyll’s and represents the actions taking place as faithfully as a company from Lincoln and Welland Regiment. In possible, and lets us contemplate some of the general, the line was stretched thin which is many sacrifices made in war. represented by the reduced number of replacements and the ability to select a Section
43 REFERENCES 29th Armoured Reconnaissance Regiment. (2006). Retrieved from The Royal Canadian Armoured Corps Association: http://www.rcaca.org/includes/r‐SAR.asp
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Bougie, S., & Vint, J. (2015). Crossroads, Closing the Gap: Interior Miniature Pictures.
Bridge, A. (2000). ""In the Eye of the Storm”: A Recollection of Three Days in the Falaise Gap, 19–21 August 1944". Canadian Military History: Vol. 9: Iss. 3, Article 6, Available at: http://scholars.wlu.ca/cmh/vol9/iss3/6.
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Copp, T. (2013). The Cork In The Bottle: Canadians And Poles At The Falaise Gap. Retrieved from Legion Magazine: https://legionmagazine.com/en/2013/09/the‐cork‐in‐the‐bottle‐canadians‐and‐poles‐at‐ the‐falaise‐gap/
Foot, R. (2006). Battle of Normandy. Retrieved from Historica Canada: http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/normandy‐invasion/
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"A & SH of C cap badge" by Source. Licensed under Fair use via Wikipedia ‐ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:A_%26_SH_of_C_cap_badge.png#/media/File:A_%26_SH_of_C_cap_badge .png
"A&SHC Regimental Colour" by Source (WP:NFCC#4). Licensed under Fair use via Wikipedia ‐ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:A%26SHC_Regimental_Colour.jpg#/media/File:A%26SHC_Regimental_Colo ur.jpg "4th Canadian Armoured Division formation sign" by BFCockburn ‐ transfer from Wikipedia. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons ‐ http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:4th_Canadian_Armoured_Division_formation_sign.png#/media/Fil e:4th_Canadian_Armoured_Division_formation_sign.png "12SSHJinsig" by Original uploader was Jecowa at en.wikipediaTraced by Gonzalogprado ‐ Originally from en.wikipedia; description page is/was here.. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons ‐ http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:12SSHJinsig.svg#/media/File:12SSHJinsig.svg "Deut.7.Armee‐Abzeichen1944" by Own work. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons ‐ http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Deut.7.Armee‐Abzeichen1944.gif#/media/File:Deut.7.Armee‐ Abzeichen1944.gif "3rd Fallschirmjäger Division (Wehrmacht WW2)" by Joeyeti ‐ Own work. Licensed under CC BY‐SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons ‐ http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:3rd_Fallschirmj%C3%A4ger_Division_(Wehrmacht_WW2).svg#/me dia/File:3rd_Fallschirmj%C3%A4ger_Division_(Wehrmacht_WW2).svg "Major david currie vc" by Lieut. Donald I. Grant ‐ Library and Archives Canada. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons ‐ http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Major_david_currie_vc.jpg#/media/File:Major_david_currie_vc.jpg “Hill 262 20 Aug 1944" by EyeSerene ‐ Own work by uploader. Based onCopp, Terry (2004) [2003] Fields of Fire: The Canadians in Normandy, Toronto: University of Toronto Press ISBN: 0‐80203‐780‐1. OCLC: 56329119.August 20th: the counter‐attack of 2nd SS‐PanzerKorps. Mémorial de Coudehard‐Montormel (memorial‐montormel.org). Retrieved on 2010‐07‐16.Additional information incorporated from sourced descriptive text at Hill 262 at en.wikipedia.org. Licensed under GFDL via Wikimedia Commons ‐ http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hill_262_20_Aug_1944.svg#/media/File:Hill_262_20_Aug_1944.sv g "Balkenkreuz" by David Liuzzo ‐ German Junkers Ju 52 Messerschmitt Me‐262Own work and also based on Page 49 ofG. G.Lepage, Jean Denis (2009) Aircraft of the Luftwaffe 1935–1945: An Illustrated History, McFarland & Company, p. 402 ISBN: 0786439378.. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons ‐ http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Balkenkreuz.svg#/media/File:Balkenkreuz.svg