Last month, I set up a table for Dave and Terry to play a small game of Chain of Command. The scenario I picked for the game was the sixth scenario from ‘Citadel – The Breakthrough’ Part Two – A ‘Pint Sized’ Campaign. The scenario was called ‘Objective in Sight’ with the Soviet’s objective of holding the German attacking forces in check and defending the vital bridge at the village of Verkhopenye. The German objective was to take the bridge.
Our village of Verkhopenye, was a little short on houses, so I did the best I could to represent the actual scenario map. Instead of houses I replaced them with a few additional fiends. Still worked out ok and I think made the game go a little faster.
The game played very well with the Russians (Commissar Terry) picking a T34 and pre-game barrage as support, which allow him to deploy most of his forces into some key terrain. The Germans (Herr Dave) with the support options of 2 x SdkKfz 251, a Pak 40 and an additional senior commander, were unable to deploy in strength in strength until they ended the first turn and the barrage. Once the barrage lifted the Germans rapidly deployed their forces and soon went straight into fisticuffs, using the ‘Handgranten!’ rule.
In doing so the section destroyed a Soviet section, but in doing so drew some heavy fire from two other Soviet sections, which forced them to be pinned and then rout. Somehow the section commander remained on his feet and did not suffer any wounds.
The Soviets continued to press the German left flank, committing three out five sections on that side, including the senior commander. However, the Germans remained in a strong position and were able to check the Soviet attacks. In the centre Commissar Terry deployed his last remaining support option…the T34, which dominated the main road to the bridge for several phases. However, Her Dave still had one more trick up his sleeve…a freshly painted Pak40. The first round missed, the 2nd hit but it was only a glancing shot and stunned the crew, however the third shot penetrated and destroyed the T34.
With the road now open Herr Dave, jumped into one of the two SdKfz 251’s and race down the road to the bridge. Taking fire from both sides from the Soviets, the 251 broke through and reached the bridge, and in doing so captured two Soviet jump of points winning the game.
A great scenario and loads of fun. Thanks Dave and Terry for the enjoyable afternoon. Figures were a mix of 1st Corps (Russians), Warlord Games and Empress Miniatures.
