The Plains Before the Rhine*
(Tutorial Scenario)*
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Date: February 28, 1945*
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Battle Type: US Advance vs German Delay*
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Design: Bill Wilson*
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Hell on Wheels!  Operation GRENADE is a success and the US forces are advancing on the Rhine River.
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A Task Force of the 2nd Armored Division has been ordered to clear the villages of Elfgen, Elsen, and Orken.
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The TF is composed of D Co., 67th Armored, and B Co., 41st Armored Infantry.  It is essential to advance quickly and minimize losses.
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The Germans no longer have a cohesive defense, but small groups may still put up a determined defense.  Use your superior
firepower and mobility to master the tactical challenges you will face.
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Historical Outcome:  The units of the 2nd AD cleared the villages in a matter of hours.
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Source:  "Hell on Wheels" by Donald E. Houston, pp. 382-383.
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Notes for Starters:*
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This scenario is designed to illustrate the tactical problems inherent to clearing villages and opening a route of advance.  It should be played as the US Army.  The Germans are defending the towns and should be bounced out with the fewest possible casualties.  The key to avoiding heavy losses is not getting ambushed (one hex range attacks).*
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You have scouting units such as the M8 Armored Cars and the scout jeeps.  Use them!  Don't drive adjacent to uncleared buildings -- use the 'z' key instead to hit the hex with area fire.  Don't spare the buildings; sometimes a lot of area fire is required to flush a hidden enemy.  You can also use dismounted infantry to close on the village.  This will accomplish two things.  You'll know for certain which buildings are enemy held and other enemy units will reveal themselves when they fire on your infantry.*
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You also have artillery support.  Work over the edge of a town with barrages as you approach it.  Close with infantry and move the barrage through the town.  Keep armored vehicles close behind the infantry to provide fire support.*
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Keep the scouts ahead of the main force, but not too close to areas that are likely to be defended else you will lose them.  When moving your armored units, try to move near areas where cover can be sought if they come under anti-tank fire.  Keep the tanks away from buildings until they have been cleared by infantry.*
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The greatest US advantage is firepower.  You have ample firepower to accomplish this mission and should take advantage of it.  Don't try to go squad-on-squad with the Germans; identify their positions and pound them with everything that can be brought to bear.*
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German armor is dangerous and should not be confronted head-on if possible.  Try for flanking shots and approach with multiple tanks.  If the vehicle or gun cannot be seen, lay down a smokescreen with your artillery to cover the movement of your units to more favorable positions.*
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Use of these principles should bring you through the scenario with at least a marginal victory, although a decisive victory should be possible with a minimum of risk-taking.*
