Playing this using the Their Finest Hour addon. No mods except to change the leadership of Germany.
The last chime sounded from the old grandfather clock marking midnight, February, 15 1944. The only sounds in the room were from the large fire in the fireplace fighting to keep the cold out and the sound of the wind from the snow storm outside. Staring out the window overlooking the courtyard, I watch as the gate opens and admits a single staff car. As it stops at the main entrance a guard steps forward opening the rear passenger door. A single in individual in an admiral's winter coat exits and walks quickly into the palace.
Turning to face the other men in the room with me, I announce that Erich has arrived. No one speaks, but a few nod their heads in acknowledgement. It's been a long contentious day for us. The decisions we are weighing are not light.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FGermanMinisters.png&hash=1d315d47b926492b4b6dae4ed6c9294a736865ec) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/GermanMinisters.png.html)
Sitting to my left of the large round conference table is Johann Schwerin von Krosigk, my Prime Minister. A good quiet, and well organized man. He really hasn't committed to either proposed courses. A few in this room think he is too wishy washy since has brought good questions and points in both support and against to two proposals. But I know he is doing what he has done for me for the last 11 years, and playing the devil's advocate and making sure that those advocating one course of action over the other have indeed done their homework.
Going clockwise around the table next to Johann is General Ludwig Beck, my Chief of Staff. He has been my Chief of Staff since I came to the throne in 1933. He has been a leading advocate of manoeuver, having seen the horrors of what happens when your opponents are allowed to dig in. If either course of action is to succeed, it is because of his vision and leadership in preparing the military to execute that vision.
Seated next is Hjalmar Schacht, my Industry Minister. A good man that has helped to bring our industry back to what is once was. His organizational skills have increased our industrial output significantly.
My Foreign Minister, Constantin von Neurath has been good at his job. He has gotten several countries into our camp. There are others that we would like to have in camp. I think that after we undertake whichever course of action we decide upon, some of the other countries will join us.
Hermann Goring, head of my Air Force. He has worked tirelessly to make the Luftwaffe a world leader in air warfare. Not just in equipment, but more importantly in doctrine and training. There is still some work that needs to be done, but the Luftwaffe is ready for whatever we ask of it. He always jokes that he would weigh 300 pounds except for all of the work that has gone into building the Luftwaffe.
Sitting straight across me is my eldest son, the Crown Prince, Wilhelm. Willy as I have always called him. Sitting there in his colonels uniform. He had been strangely silent all day while the arguments raged back and forth. His position as an instructor at the Imperial War College has allowed him to war game out both options. I'm therefore surprised he has decided to side with one plan over another.
The seat to his left is empty. Wilhelm had been saving it for Erich. I hadn't thought that the two of them were particularly close. I wonder if this is why he hasn't entered the debate yet.
Continuing one around the table is Joseph Goebbels, Minister of Security. He is very good at his job. I do need to keep a bit of a tight leash on him at times as his more radical ideas towards my subjects, seems to wonder back to the realms of that little Austrian corporal. If he wasn't so good at his job, I would probably of had him replaced long ago. But as long as he heeds the reminders that I give him and he stays effective in his duties, then there will be no need for it.
Chief of the Army, Werner von Fritsch occupies the next seat at the table. A leading advocate of armored warfare. Along with Beck and Goring, Werner has been a leader in developing our tactical and operational doctrines and insuring that everyone from the General Staff down to the lowest private, whether they are in a combat or a support roll understands their place in making any operations we undertake a success.
Finally, there is Wilhelm Conaris, my intelligence chief. Through his determined leadership we have a good understanding of our potential opponents strengths and weaknesses. Especially with the use of electronic intelligence gathering and deception methods.
The door opens admitting Admiral Erich Raeder, Chief of the Navy. Walking around the table I reach out with my right hand to shake his hand. "Welcome Erich. Sorry about having to drag you back here to Berlin from Wilhelmshaven in this snow storm.'
'Quite alright your Majesty. I just wish the trains were able to run on time in this weather so I could have been here a lot sooner.'
'Well, even the Kaiser cannot control the weather. But, I can offer you some food and drink'
'I had plenty to eat on the train ride down. But, perhaps some brandy would help warm my bones back up.'
Releasing his hand I walk over to the counter on the side of the room and pour a large glass of brandy for him. I can pretty much guess whom in the room disapproves of their Emperor personally pouring a drink for one of his subjects. Frankly, I don't give a damn if the like it or not. The day I cannot pour a drink for one of my people with my own two hands because I think it's beneath me is the day I no longer deserve to wear the crown and lead this great nation or her people.
Handing the drink back, I motion for him to be seated. Coming back around to my place at the table, I stay standing behind my chair.
'So, Erich, we have been debating the merits are starting active operations against either the Russians or the Allies. There are dangers in both and large rewards in both. Joseph, Werner, Ludwig and Wilhelm are in favor of going east. Frankly, with the Russian occupation of Poland and my desire to regain Danzig, I'm leaning in that direction. Constantin, Schacht, and Hermann are favor of going west and securing the industrial capacity in both France and the Netherlands before turning on the Russians.'
'Taking out Russia has the benefits of giving us all of the riches of that country and keeping them from ever stabbing us in the back. Plus, it would allow me to pay back those murdering Bolsheviks for what they did to Alexander and his family.'
'While the Russians are at war with the Allies over Poland, I'm not sure that they will launch land attacks against Russia. They would have to launch an amphibious assault somewhere in the western part of the county. To do that it will take several years to build up the forces needed. If they try to come from the east, they will be at the end of a very long and vulnerable supply line. All the while the Russians are pulling back toward their supply base.'
'The main problem with going after Russia first is that our plans call for two Panzer armies. As of now, we have one. We have four divisions active now for the second, but it will be this winter before we the entire army is ready. We would also have to get the panzer brigades formed and to the infantry divisions on the east border and get as many of the infantry divisions transformed into mechanized units.'
'Getting the units ready will cause a delay of one year. Intelligence believes that the vast majority of the Russian forces are along their western border, which is good for the operational plans that we have developed. At this time, we have no reason to believe that they will change their deployments. And, perhaps in that time, the allies will help us out some.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FGermanPolishBoarder.png&hash=10a6d8cefc94ffb31e80a9b5e0cee494ae03e8c3) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/GermanPolishBoarder.png.html)
'If we go against the Allies, with the forces we have available now, we can take the Dutch quickly. France will be a much harder objective to take. We would either have to crack the Maginot Line or go through Belgium. The General Staff does not see a problem with the Belgium military. But from a diplomatic view point, it may cause some those countries that we're hoping to bring under our guidance to move further away.'
'We're sure that 1st Panzer Army can break through the Maginot Line at a couple of points. However, the major of the of the French army is close to the area. How much resistance they'll put up is hard to tell. But, we will be in a race against time to capture Paris and the major ports before the French forces in Asia can get back and help.'
'While France and the Netherlands would give us a nice boost to our manufacturing base, and give us a jump off point to either invade England, or to launch an air war against their industrial base. On top of that, if we would have to leave a sizable force in the west in case the Allies should be able to launch an invasion. '
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FGermanWestBoarder.png&hash=eb142a684061b865fde1d6dad9cfa4a19fdb0c32) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/GermanWestBoarder.png.html)
'However, if we succeed, then we may be able to relieve the pressure from Japan and allow them to get back on their feet and become useful again to us.'
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FJapan.png&hash=b896c0c5d9490f5db3b9780cf45aeac2e2505145) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/Japan.png.html)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FIndonesia.png&hash=881d2e66cfa8fd5d2c302382fbc4bf64179856fe) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/Indonesia.png.html)
'So Erich, what do think is our best option.'
No one in the room could have missed the look that Willy and Erich gave each other. The look of two boys who had just gotten away with stealing a fresh hot cookie from their mothers kitchen.
'Well, Majesty. I'm not really in support of either plan. If fact, the colonel and I have been working on a plan since the Japanese declared war on the Allies.' Erich stated while he and Willy wore very smug looks on their faces. So, that's why Willy didn't support either plan.
Groans echoed around the table, and more than one person buried their hands and their hands. All figured we would be here for several more hours.
Reaching into his brief case, Admiral Raeder pulled out a stack of papers. Keeping one for himself, he handed the rest to Willy, who stood up and started handing them out to the other.
'Gentlemen. The summaries that the colonel is handing out is for a plan that we have named Sealion. The short of the plan is.....'
Good read, OJsDad! Am liking the alternate-history narrative.
So are you planning to launch a seaborne invasion of southern/eastern England directly from Germany? Or are you going to grab northern France and the Low Countries as a staging area first?
No doubt that will be part 2. ;D
Oh yes. I hope to have part two up this weekend.
I know I rushed part 1, but had had played up to that point and cannot wait to get back into.
Quote from: Martok on March 07, 2014, 03:05:16 PM
Good read, OJsDad! Am liking the alternate-history narrative.
So are you planning to launch a seaborne invasion of southern/eastern England directly from Germany? Or are you going to grab northern France and the Low Countries as a staging area first?
You'll just have to wait for the next part, maybe two, to find out.
Argh! To quote Inigo Montoya, I hate waiting. ;D
AAR's are some of my favorite stuff to read. And this looks like it's going to be a good one. Can't wait for the next installment, OJsDad.
Maybe "Sealion" means invading another country first with sea lions? :D
And if you believe that, Steelgrave has some lovely oceanfront property next door to his house that he'd like to sell you... 8)
... ...... does it have sea lions? ;D
Ok. Since Martok was so upset about having to wait, I got the next part completed. Just so you know, I'm writing now as I go. I did start the game in 1936, but up until now, it has all been preparing and not much story to tell.
Part II
'Your Majesty! A message from the Crown Prince' exclaimed Major Lammert as he came bounding into the room where I was trying desperately to keep my mind from thinking too much on what I had started, by playing with my grandchildren. The major is the head of my personal communications team. Normally it would be unheard of for him or any other member of his staff to come barging into the private family quarters like this. However, the entire palace no, the entire country was awaiting this message. I slowly stood up, holding my granddaughter, Kira, like some kind of security blanket. Whom ever thought an Emperors should always be fearless and not need a security blanket, should have the misfortune of being in my shoes and live with the consequences of the decisions I've made.
'Alright Konrad, let's hear it.' Somehow keeping the fear out of my voice. Poor Kira, I'm sure I was holding her too tight.
'Of course your Majesty. ' The major paused a moment as he looked at the message sheet once more. 'Father, General Rommel reports that General Wurrenberg's 3rd Heavy Panzer Division has taken the center of London. Marines have secured Norwich. British are attempting to land forces from sea into Dover. General von Arnim says he will not have any problem repulsing. Admiral Raeder is taking Battle Fleet and a single U-Boat flotilla into English Channel to engage British ships supporting landing. Still some units need to be landed but should be completed within week. End of message.'
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FCentralLondonCaptured.jpg&hash=aef4a6a870303f7a23479a2f74161df187665597) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/CentralLondonCaptured.jpg.html)
Turning to the children's nanny, Helen, I state 'Helen, open up the ice cream parlor, it's time for a celebration.'
'Hold on Helen. Father, I know you want to celebrate this great news, but it's too close to dinner for ice cream. And you wouldn't want your grandchildren to get in trouble for not eating their dinner'
I turn to face Kira, the wife of my second son, Friedrich, whom is serving with a fighter squadron in Konigsberg.
'Ah, but you forget my dear, I'm the Emperor. And as the Emperor, I can pardon anyone I like. Including my grandchildren for not eating their vegetables because of an ice cream celebration beforehand.' I say with an oversized all toothy grin, with the older kids start cheering, knowing that their grandfather has trumped their mother.
Kira, on the other hand, gives me the evil eye with a smirk while shaking her head. Gretchen, Willy's wife, and Cecile, my Empress, just giggle as they gather kids and head for the ice cream parlor.
While sitting there, sharing my double dip of chocolate with little Kira, it's hard to believe the whirlwind of the last couple of months. Within an hour of Erich arriving at the meeting, they had everyone on board with Sealion. But that was only the begging. There were brigades that needed to be completed and attached to the 1st Panzer Army. Infantry brigades that were refitting into mechanized brigades from the western front also needed to complete their training and returned. As production become available, infantry brigades on the eastern front were sent back for transformation into mechanized brigades. New panzer brigades and security divisions were also ordered up. And, we had to mobilize our country a couple of week before to bring all of our units to full strength.
Most importantly, we needed to keep the Allies in the dark about what we were up to. They seemed to suspect something, as the British and Australians loaned the Dutch a few units that are causing us a few problems at the moment. However, 5th Panzer Corps is making good progress. We had put out a press release stating that the 1st Panzer Corps was heading for Italian North Africa for desert training. And I think it kept the Allies from totally guessing our plans as the British seemed to be caught unprepared.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FBreakingintoNetherlands.jpg&hash=91438d5c4c2905e50f6a3895a0d238d3b718fe12) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/BreakingintoNetherlands.jpg.html)
So far Raeders navy has performed flawlessly. The carrier pilots from our only two carriers, Graf Zepplin and Peter Stasser, has kept the RAF from doing too much damage to the fleet and have been able to launch anti-ship missions against the Allies navy. The two super battleships, Wilhelm I and Frederick the Great have completely overwhelmed everything that the Allies have in the part of the world at the moment. Hopefully they can keep it up. With the airfields in Dover no secured, our naval aviation bombers can rebase there and lend a hand to the surface and subsurface units.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FFirstNavyVictory.jpg&hash=fbc941b0d114c99d80b251c86fd89c12f96735c7) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/FirstNavyVictory.jpg.html)
The Bulgarians, Hungarians, Slovaks, and Italians have joined us in the war. The Greeks are in on the Allies side and is looking to be making moves against Bulgaria and Italian Albania. We have a corps of mountain troops in southern Germany. High Command would like to keep them there as a strategic reserve at this time, but will commit them to Greece if necessary.
The Italians are not moving against southern France at this time. That is fine as they are keeping the French from redeploying those units to the German front. The Italians are moving against British and French holding in northern Africa. Good luck to them, as we have nothing to offer them for help at this time.
Time. Time is our biggest enemy. We have to more quickly to and secure England before she can bring her units back from Asia. Three days is what it took from the declaration of war to the capture of central London. We have to keep moving now. Japan is still in great danger of being completely overrun. Worse, it's the French that seem to be leading that effort. So we need to secure England and get 1st Panzer Corps moving against France to try and draw units away from Japan. We've detected two American Airborne units before we entered the war. So we also need to know both England and France out before the Americans can change the focus of the war efforts to come to Europe's aid.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FFirstNavyVictory.jpg&hash=fbc941b0d114c99d80b251c86fd89c12f96735c7) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/FirstNavyVictory.jpg.html)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FJapanontheEdge.jpg&hash=cbc4aff3533f6a6c010153e3b3cb5e4d22ae8e1f) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/JapanontheEdge.jpg.html)
Nice job with Sealion! I'll admit, I wasn't sure you could pull it off a seaborne invasion all the way from northern Germany. From you narrative, I take it the Brits didn't give you much trouble?
Also, what's happening with Japan? The Allies invaded the Home Islands right away or something?
Quote from: OJsDad on March 08, 2014, 09:10:29 PM
Ok. Since Martok was so upset about having to wait, I got the next part completed.
Most kind of you sir. 8) Thank you!
I'm confused about what month/year the game started, and where it is now -- the screenshots seem to indicate 1944, and I think the first story entry indicated 1944, but I can't make that square with anything else (including a later post indicating you've been playing since 1936 but didn't bother to report because nothing has really happened yet...)
I'm certainly curious about how well going with Sealion first and then dealing with the Continent will work out, but I'm missing the historical or alt-historical context. ??? (I mean aside from there being a German Emperor still.)
Jason,
I'm playing the Road to War scenario, which starts in 1936. I played through until Feb of '44 because there wasn't much happening except for research and building units. I would have started the AAR a lot sooner if there was anything significant to report.
As for who rules Germany, I hope to tell more about that as the AAR goes on.
Ohhhhhh! Okay, that makes sense: if Germany doesn't start a war, and the little box isn't checked at the beginning (or when loading any save game) to let anyone start wars, then even the Russians probably won't start a war (because they'd need an event to trigger to do so).
The strategy then is to push hard on building up Germany's research and industrial infrastructure, beyond what anyone else will be doing in the same time period, and only launch when you're ready -- then knock out Britain first with Sealion! Neat!
(I did not just accidentally type Sealoin as an unconscious expression of my admiration for this strategy... ::) )
One thing I just found and do not like. Even though at this point I have taken most of England, I'm not getting their industrial points. Also, just like my units in East Prussia, I cannot upgrade them or retrain them without bringing them back to the main land. If they are in the Netherlands then I can. Very frustrating.
Hm, odd. You should be able to get their IC somehow, but I don't recall how (and don't have enough experience yet in HOI2:DH to make a suggestion).
It's possible you're getting only a fraction of their IC until you annex their country altogether; if you took over the Dutch completely, that might explain a lot of the difference.
What kind of options do you get if you right-click on an English territory? Any options to do with factories or infrastructure?
I can kind of understand why you need a securely knocked-out nation to directly retrain and upgrade troops; but if you're willing to sacrifice experience there's a way around that: disband the division and send it back to manpower for production of a fresh unit. You still have to roll it out from your farthest national province (or port or airport if it's naval or air, and depending on how developed the facility is), but you'll save time marching it back home anyway. Alternately, gin up a fresh division or brigade and then once it's deployed dismiss the outdated one off the battle/occupation line sending it back to manpower to make up the difference after the fact.
PART III
The bright star bursts flashed continuously in the night sky illuminating the faces of those standing there. The distant rumble from the explosions washed over us all on the palace balcony. The man made thunder was accompanied by the oohs and ahs of not only the children but also the adults, myself included. I had always loved fireworks. And tonight, every pyrotechnic in the Empire was being fired off. France had capitulated the day before, September 5th 1944.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FFranceSurrenders.jpg&hash=95c822a1005a4e7c2385318bebd3250d8c0c162e) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/FranceSurrenders.jpg.html)
Her government had fled and established a capital in Hanoi. They still had some power in the Far East. Japan wasn't totally out of the fight, but she had a long way to go to stand on her own. And with the Americans pushing, along with the British, Dutch, and French forces there, it was not looking hopeful for them. I think the best we could hope for is that the Japanese will be able to keep the Allied forces there occupied while we cleanup things in our part of the world.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FFrancePushingintoJapan.jpg&hash=24b78f9b6bd37a5b8a7c4b1ae0ff5456d0a5eec9) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/FrancePushingintoJapan.jpg.html)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FAmericaLandsinthePhillipines.jpg&hash=86d9394b5af4f28766fa94528b1699b701868548) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/AmericaLandsinthePhillipines.jpg.html)
At this moment General von Manstein, commander of 1st Panzer Army, which had lead the attack into England, and Admiral Raeder, were making plans to invade Northern Ireland. That, along with the northern parts of Scotland were still in British hands, but that should be changed by end of the year.
We had almost waited too long to make a move against France. We were fine with not going after them until we had the Netherlands and the British Isles secured. But then the Italians had made an offensive into southern France. While they were successful in pushing the French out of Briancon, they were themselves kicked out a short time later. Not only had they lost their gains, but the French pursued the retreating Italians into Italy and broke through the defenses there. In fact, the French had been able to push an armored division far enough east that it got into southern Germany. This required us to divert 6th Corps and a Panzer division from 5th Panzer Corps to block them. This was made easier with the Mountain Corps getting in behind the French and cutting off their supplies.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FFranceInvadingSouthernGermany.jpg&hash=27277b763edb0ff9189fb45b9224a3dfd9558a73) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/FranceInvadingSouthernGermany.jpg.html)
But with the Italians in headlong retreat, we had to act. Admiral Raeder and General von Manstein activated a modified version of Operation Versailles. Second Panzer Corps had remained in southern England in case the Allies attempted to land forces there. So they, along with the Marine and Fallschirmjager Corps made their moves into northern France.
The 2nd Panzer landed in La Harve and the Marines landed in Dieppe. We have no idea why the French high command moved the units in Paris out to meet this invasion and not the units sitting along the Belgium border, but it meant the Fallschirmjager were able to land unopposed.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FLandinginFrance.jpg&hash=d5d360f43a5aada221d0d459751b99fa01581a56) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/LandinginFrance.jpg.html)
While the a sea and air invasion was taking place in western France, the 5th Panzer Corps was attempting to punch a hole through the Maginot Line at Wissembourg. They took quite a few casualties, but they were successful in the end. We had hoped that once through, 5th Panzer would be able to sweep around north and cut off the French forces in Metz, Sarreguemines and Cattenom. However, after moving through Schirmeck and into Nancy, the French counter attacked into Schirmeck and pushed the single Panzer division there out. After a number of large battles, Schirmeck exchanged hands several times.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FCrackingtheMaginotLine.jpg&hash=20e3c21776fb3d36a5b59cad3e72c75130db7847) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/CrackingtheMaginotLine.jpg.html)
While the balance was to be determined in eastern France, it was also up in the air in northern France. The French high command had decided to move the units along the Belgium border to counter 5th Panzer. This kept the 2nd from being able to move to the relief of the Fallschirmjager in Paris. It was decided that the Marines needed to remain in Dieppe to ensure that port was not captured and the 2nd supplies cutoff. The solution was to move the 4th Panzergrenadier from Holland to Dieppe. From there, they moved into Gamaches, while the 2nd moved around the south of Neufchatel en Bray to Abbeville, cutting off the large Allied force in Neufchatel and destroying them. This allow the 4th to move to the Belgium border and start move east and the 2nd to secure Paris and move east to link up with the 5th.
Then, just as the two Panzer corps were linking up, the French suddenly gave up in France, leaving us in control of the entire country, even though we were only in the northern portion.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FFranceSurrenders.jpg&hash=95c822a1005a4e7c2385318bebd3250d8c0c162e) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/FranceSurrenders.jpg.html)
In the Bulkans, the Bulgarians had driven the Greeks out of Bulgaria and was driving deep into Greece. While in North Africa, the Italians had lost their initial gains, but were now holding their own.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FBulgariaInvadesGreece.jpg&hash=65de751d51495c8f760924f426fb880270e2dc31) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/BulgariaInvadesGreece.jpg.html)
It's hard to believe that in just ten years, I had reclaimed the Imperial throne, established what I had termed an Imperial Representative government, pulled Germany out of the depths of economic depression, and have now conquered two of the most power countries in the world in less than seven months.
If that psychopath from Austria hadn't allowed his elevation to the Chancellorship to believe he was a dictator, all of this may not have come to be. But He had to start his Night of the Long Knives. The execution was fumbled from the start by missing several key targets, including leaders within his own party. This triggered not only caused open fighting within the party, but open street fighting with the other political parties also. The military was frozen, not sure what to do or which side to take.
So, with his desperation to get control of the situation, he had asked to meet with me, hoping that my voice would help. We had meet before, and I had even offered him support, even though I wasn't in support of all of his more, radical, ideas. BUt he seemed to inspire the German people. But he had made one huge mistak. One of his first targets was his predecessor, and my close friend, Kurt von Schleicher. Not only was Kurt killed, but his wife was also.
Walking into his office, he came from around his desk and shook hands with me. Never had my skin crawled at the touch of someone before, but it did with that handshake. Looking into his eyes, I could tell he had not slept in days. There was perhaps something else there also, perhaps some stimulants that he was rumored to be addicted to. While I only had one body guard with me, he had two of own in his office, along with two of his lieutenants, Heinrich Himmler and Joseph Goebbels.
The little Austrian began ranting and raving about the chaos erupting throughout the country. He demanded that I make a speech to the country, demanding the army come to his aide, as the rightful Chancellor of Germany. The whole time he stood within a foot of me. 'It's a shame that Kurt had been killed in all of the fighting.'
He seemed confused for a moment, and then it occurred to him for whom I was talking about. 'Yes, well, the casualties of war. But in the end, his death will be forgotten'
In an agreed upon phrase with my body guard, Franz, I reply 'Yes, I suppose. Still, too bad that Elisabeth was also killed. But thank god their daughter was not hurt. '
'God had nothing to do with it. It was all my design'
There were four quick cracks that left all in the room deafened momentarily. The little Austrians two guards slumped to the floor, each shot twice by Franz. At the sound of the first shot, He squatted down as far as he could with his hands over his head. I reach down and yank him to his feet taking his pistol and discarding it, as more shots could be heard in the outer office where my other guards were taking care of things. Franz's gun barks again killing Himmler. He had a gun sitting on the couch beside him under some papers. When he thought that Franz had been distracted he had made a move for it.
Slowly and quietly, I pull the dagger from the scabbard of His belt. Looking into his frightened eyes, I tell him his hatred and drive for power was no longer welcome in my Germany.
'Where...where are you sending me. Back to Austria? They won't take me. Neither will the French, British, or Soviets'
'No. There is only one place that you'll be welcomed.' And I slowly shove the knife under his ribs and into his heart. As his eyes grow wide with the realization of what was happening, I lean forward and whisper in his ear 'To Hell'
I allow the dagger to slip from my hand had he slides back to the floor, still imbedded in his heart.
Turning, Franz and I turn to face the only other person in the room, Gobbels. With Franz's pistol pointing at him, his eyes dart
back and forth from the two of us. Then he slid from his chair onto one knee, hands folded on his one knee, and head bowed.
'Your Majesty. The radio room here in the Chancellery is still operational. We can use it to broadcast a message to the country to let them know the changes that have happened and implore them to stop the fighting. I believe the army will even side with you.'
He's good. Not a break in his voice. Not a quiver. No sign of fear. And he went from obedient lap to dog for one master to the lap dog for another. Perhaps I'll have to see about keeping him on if things work out, and he doesn't stray.
'Alright Joseph. Let us go see if we can put an end to this mess.'
<slow clap>
Well done, OJsDad. Very well done indeed. :)
i think you get 50% ic for government in exile
Quote from: Martok on March 13, 2014, 08:03:19 AM
<slow clap>
Well done, OJsDad. Very well done indeed. :)
Thanks Marktok.
I feel like I've rushed the AAR too much. The story telling isn't as good as I would like. I definitely feel that my China AAR for Victoria 2 is a lot better.
I'm going to slow down my game now and write more story for the AAR. There may still be some jumps in time if there is not much going on though.
Thanks for reading.
Quote from: OJsDad on March 15, 2014, 12:10:16 PMI definitely feel that my China AAR for Victoria 2 is a lot better.
Which would be here: http://grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=2452.0 :D
Part IV
'Alright gentlemen, let's get this meeting started. General Beck, why don't you start with how things are going currently'
'Yes you Majesty. First, in Scotland, British forces are pretty much trapped in the north west. General Rommel is moving up along the east coast to cut off any supplies getting to British forces from there. Once that is complete, taking the rest of the country should be pretty quick.'
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FScotlandHangingOn.jpg&hash=189cca21a2151fd8d8e1f900ab581306f31b80e3) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/ScotlandHangingOn.jpg.html)
'Admiral Raeder is preparing for Operation Sealion II, which will land forces into Northern Ireland. We'll be using 2nd Panzer Corps, the Marines and the Fallschjager out of France for this operation. We do not anticipate much trouble with taking our objective.'
'With the taking of France, we're having to scramble to get forces to protect it. We've got one corps moving to the Toulon region and one to the Bordeaux region to cover the southern part of the country. We've also got one corps moving the Brest area and one to the Caen region to cover the north. What we really need, is more garrison units to free up the panzergrenadier units so they can form heavy fast reaction forces to any invasion attempts.'
'The Bulgarians continue to put the pressure on the Greeks. Currently, about half of Greece is under their control. The Italians are going back in forth with the British in both Egypt and Ethiopia. They are having some better luck with the French in northwestern Africa.'
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FItalianNorthAfrica.jpg&hash=7e8bc1de6b70d17a59a243568d5f9def237ff15c) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/ItalianNorthAfrica.jpg.html)
'As for the Japanese, they're still getting hammered by the combined forces of the Allies.'
'Finally, we're finished our survey work on where to place the radar sites. While the British had a couple, they were all focused against us. The French and Dutch on the other hand had investing nothing into them. We currently have a number under construction here in Germany, however, with the constraints on industry right now, we feel we should pause construction on them, and start getting the new radar line up.'
Looking up from his note, General Becks across the round table to the Kaiser and state's that is all he has to report on current operations at the moment.
'Thank you Ludwig. I think that's a great idea on the radar stations. Please start making the necessary arrangements. Speaking of industrial constraints, why don't you tell us where things stand Hjalmar.'
Taking a few seconds to look over his note, Armament Minister Hjalmar Schacht then took off his glasses as he looked up.
'As is always the case we don't have enough industry to meet the demands of our country. I've talked it over with the General Staff and we're in agreement on a couple of changes. First, as General Beck stated, we'll pause work on the current radar sites, and start on the new one.'
'Second, we have six panzer brigades forming up. Those will be done by end of the month, and we need more for the grenadier divisions. But, instead of six, we'll go with forming four at a time.'
'Third, we have eleven grenadier brigades reform as mechanized units. When those finish, we'll cut the number down to six. Forth, when the two carrier wings finish, we'll go with one at a time.'
'With the savings, we'll start work on the Type-XXI U-Boats, V2 rockets, a new Panzer division, and supply and escort ships. We need those desperately. ' concludes Hjalmar.
I turn to face Goring. 'Herman what is the Luftwaffe's opinion on these changes.
Goring looked over at Hjalmar, and for a moment, I thought there might be an issue. 'Well, your Majesty, while any commander would like more aircraft, I'll be more than happy to get the V2's. When it comes time to take on the Soviets, we plan on using them to neutralize their airfields within range. And, I'll be more happy to get the units we currently have upgraded to the latest models.'
'Erich, what is the Navy's view.'
'Your Majesty. I would like to have the carrier air wings sooner than later. But I need those U-Boats if we are going to make a dent in the Allied convoys.'
'And, your Majesy, they Army is happy with the changes. Or, as happy as we can be.' Werner von Fritsch, Chief of the Army volunteered.
'Alright Hjalmar, make your changes. Anything else'
'Only that we expect some more production from France to come on line in the next month as repairs and upgrades are made. And, as we free up production from the need to repair battle damage to units, we'll redirect it to upgrading equipment.'
I take a minute to digest what has been presented. I cannot think of any reason to disagree with anything that Hjalmar wants to do.
'Alright Ludwig, you and your conspirators in the military took all of that well, even if you knew about it before hand. So let's hear it.'
'Well Majesty. We have been working on one or two, maybe even half a dozen ideas.' That brought a round of chuckles from around the table.
''Before I begin. We all agree that we need to complete our current operations in the British Isles. And all of our proposals will either not interfere or will take place after the England is secured. '
'First, we are unanimous in our beliefs that we must take out both Belgium and Luxemburg. '
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FTheBelguimFrontier.jpg&hash=598c4032abd7e0ee07554008c885bdc96e3fbc59) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/TheBelguimFrontier.jpg.html)
I don't think my eyebrows could rise any further up my head. It's not that I had any love for either country, but it did surprise me.
'We have a large boarder with Belgium now and we'll have to commit a significant number of units to guarding it. By taking them out, we shorten our defensive lines and open up more lines for supply and communications.'
I nod to Constantin von Neurath, my Foreign Minister, with a raised hand for attention.
'The Belgiums are in the back pocket of the Allies. I'm not sure why they didn't join them before France fell. But we have the Foreign office believe that if they think they can give us a whack, they'll jump at the change. Especially if our forces are else where occupied.'
'Alright Ludwig, continue with your wish list'
'Of course your Majesty. Next, if we move against Belgium, then once 5th Panzer Corps is done there, we would want to move them into North Africa to help the Italians. More specifically, we want to secure the Suez Canal and Syria.'
'We're also looking at options on Denmark. That would give us a more secure boarder, but more importantly, we would like control of the Faroe Islands, Iceland, and Greenland for naval and air units. Once the Marines are freed up in Northern Ireland, then we will want to use them in Bermuda. Again, we will want to operate U-Boats and bombers against the US from there.'
'We also think that taking Ireland has some advantages, though according to Constantin, we may be able to bring them in as allies.'
'Finally, we would like to look at taking Yugoslavia and Romania. Neither one is close to us. With Yugoslavia, we would have a second region of the Mediterranean with ports. As for Romania, having control of her oil fields and refinery would be a big boost to our military. And, as a bonus, we would have another avenue of attack against Russia.'
I sit there contemplating all that he had presented for a couple of minutes. Finally I state 'Alight Ludwig, start your preparation for Belgium and Luxemburg. Let's get them out of the way before they become an issue. And, when the 5th is freed from there, let get them into North Africa.'
'With the exception of Bermuda, let's think about it for a while. Go ahead and start drawing up detailed plans for each, but I don't think we want to commit to any of them yet.'
'If that is all gentlemen, then I think we can call it a day'
France, the Netherlands, Britain, Belgium and one or two more have provinces all over the world. Some of them are even VP. That might hinder your IC and capitulation.
Absolutely can testify to that from my Darkest Hour game (HOI2:DDARMA+). During winter of 14/15, Germany had Belgium utterly beaten in Europe, only one province left (next to Dunkirk), capitol taken, etc. I've just started July, and Belgium is kicking all kinds of German booty. They've surrounded one army in Antwerp, reclaimed the capitol province, and only lack two more territories getting their whole nation back. My guess (due to fog of war) is that the French have started setting up trench defenses on their short border with Germany, and are lending expeditionary forces (maybe along with Britain) to basically pull a WW2 Belgium end-around blitz on Germany (instead of vice versa). But that could only happen because Belgium has a ton of central Africa under its control, even though it has only one teensy little port on the sw coast (so small that on the largest zoom it looks like Belgium has no African access to the sea at all).
My Ethiopians are going, "We hope we only have to fight the British and Italy and France and maybe the Germans, and not the Belgians! -- they look like they're made out of dragons!!" 8)
A couple of thoughts;
I think the issue has to due with the countries being part of the Alllies. I tried an experiment and took out Luxemburg. I did not see an increase in my IC. When I declared war on them, they were not part of any faction. But before I could take control, they had joined the Allies. Same with Belgium. There are notes in the manuals that a member of a faction doesn't surrender until all members have been captured. So that may also be part of it.
I'm going to try and take Yugoslavia and see if a) they join the Allies before I can capture them b) If not, do I see a noticible uptick in IC.
Unless they have 10 factories you aren't going to see a single uptick in IC, regardless. When a country capitulates that might improve the IC access somewhat, but taking a province (at least back in HOI2 and I don't know why this would change) wrecks havoc on infrastructure and IC access. There are various abilities which help offset this, some of which are techs and some of which are special brigade powers (like having a combat engineer brigade attached to a conquering division); but there's still a hit to both the factory production and the infrastructure, and (so far as I can tell) until the supporting infrastructure recovers, the ICs from factories won't be available (by proportion) even if they themselves are back to 100%. E.g., until the infrastructure is back to 30% which is usually the minimum to operate even one factory, you aren't going to get that factory back to 100% operational. (The factory may still be contributing an improving fraction of that. I kind of doubt it, though, because I don't see a fractional IC being contributed to my available IC total -- still exactly 6.0 -- from the factory I took in Khartoum, my only non-national factory so far, even though it reads as having a slowly improving fractional IC contribution. But the infrastructure hasn't come back up to 30% either.)
Infrastructure and factories are restored at progressively continuing rates (affected by techs and inherent abilities) over time, but I don't know yet whether a division has to be stationed there (garrison or reserves or otherwise) to have that effect, or whether it impedes the effect, or helps the effect -- though I expect having combat engineer brigades helps the effect.
Jason,
I understand what you saying, but I dont think that is the case. None of the French territories have any factory or infrastructure damaged.
When you click on a province in HOI3, does it bring up a sidebar with little icons for various things that might be in the province, including factories and infrastructure?
If it does (or something like it, the interface may have changed, but that's the way it was in HOI2), there may be tooltip rollovers which popup when the mouse hovers over the buttons for infrastructure and factories. Red in any case means damage, but that would more clearly show what fraction of the IC or infrastructure is currently operative (at least in theory).
For example, Khartoum originally had an infrastructure of 30% before I invaded, then it dropped to something like 16%, and it wasn't much more than back to 26% before I had to run the hell away while I still had a chance strategically withdraw. ;) In an annexed territory the icon might not show up as red but the fraction might still be more-fractional until local conditions re-improve.
I'm having to make guesses, sorry... :-\ You could pm undercovergeek, he's played with the HOI3 engine a lot.
I posted the question over on the Paradox forums and it was pointed out that I needed to change the Occupation policy for each country. The default is Collaboration. This gives good Leadership but the very little IC or Resources. By change to Total Exploitation, I get lots of IC and Resources but almost no Leadership.
When I changed all three to Total Exploitation, by base IC jumped to 295 from 186 and my actual jumped to 523 from 331. However, my Leadership dropped from 54.93 to 42.48. That's a big hit to research. So I need to find the right mix.
Huh. I wonder if I can do that in HOI2, to single territories.... (not that it matters at the moment, or at this point ever will likely matter in the future of this game again ;) )
Been a while since I played 2, but, I am pretty sure that having conquered the territory, you get some IC. Infrastructure may play a part in how much IC you get, but simply owning the province with the factories in it gives you some IC.
Quote from: MetalDog on March 22, 2014, 09:06:37 AM
Been a while since I played 2, but, I am pretty sure that having conquered the territory, you get some IC. Infrastructure may play a part in how much IC you get, but simply owning the province with the factories in it gives you some IC.
Then it must have been an infrastructure problem, because I can confirm I wasn't getting even a fraction of the factory's IC from Khartoum. I ran tests: the ICs added up perfectly to 6.0, no matter how I sliced it (including dedicating my factories solely to cash or supplies), but had I been getting the fraction from Khartoum it would have been 6.1 or something like that. (The factory was 'in supply', too, so it was getting whatever it wanted from my central materials depot. It simply wasn't using anything.)
Possibly due to how the maps were designed, factories in territories with less than 33% infrastructure generate nothing once something disrupts the work, although the game treats factories plopped onto a 20% territory before gamestart as viable (otherwise I would have zero ICs at all!) Similarly, I can directly confirm that spending vast sums of cash on "public works" results in no gain at all when no territories are above 33% infrastructure. (The game should warn about that -- I was excessively pissed.)
PART V
'Ludwig, Operation Hog is a go for the 1st. Please be ready to brief the rest of the ministers at tomorrow meeting. Good luck.'
Hanging up the phone, I lean back in my swivel chair facing the ceiling with closed eye and fingers steepled together on my chest. The last several months have been a complete whirlwind. After the fall of France, 2nd Panzer Corps was reloaded on to transports and sent to Northern Ireland. There they joined the Fallschjager and Marines who had landed in Coleraine and secured the port there. There were able to quickly defeat the British forces there.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FTakingNorthernIreland.jpg&hash=a32578a13c30bbbb0272308a8052282f846a78f5) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/TakingNorthernIreland.jpg.html)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FBattleoftheMinch.jpg&hash=fed504569f838acce55fca3b693e40a695a3f730) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/BattleoftheMinch.jpg.html)
The rest of 1st Panzer Army were able to isolate and destroy the majority of the British units there. Unfortunately, a sizable force escaped to Scapa Flow. There, along with a very large contingent of the RAF, the Royal Navy was able to make life miserable for the merchant marine trying to supply our forces in England. To top it off, the Royal Navy had gotten some descent units there and beat up on Admiral Rader. It took some time, but between Rader and Goring, they were able to muster enough forces to neutralize the port and airfield to keep supplies out and the RAF grounded. With that opening, the Marines and 2nd Panzer sailed from Belfast and made a hard fought taking of Scapa Flow. The Royal Navy ships there were forced to flee into the waiting arms of Raders ships and took sever casualties.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FInvadingScapaFlow.jpg&hash=c17e19fcf08530cbf317320ca298084b1f4df95e) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/InvadingScapaFlow.jpg.html)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FVictoryatScapa.jpg&hash=d011617bac00252f6b3571857a9066bee278955b) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/VictoryatScapa.jpg.html)
From Scapa Flow, the Marines reboarded their transports and landed on Lerwick. The ground defenders there were weaker. The few ships there were forced to sea, again with Rader waiting. This time, it cost them the carrier Ark Royal and the battleship Temeraire. The Royal Navy is still has a lot of fight in here, but the British government in Calcutta doesn't have the industrial capacity to replace their losses and maintain what they have in the field. Though I have no doubt that they are getting lots of help from the Americans.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FLandingatLerwick.jpg&hash=9d265e1df49d7442a40adbfc698974f572339b54) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/LandingatLerwick.jpg.html)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FBattleofOrkney.jpg&hash=0b0722d664075ec0382d9f1192cd185ee9f21caf) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/BattleofOrkney.jpg.html)
Admiral Assman has been orchestrating convoy raids by the U-Boats in the North Sea. The Allies have a large number coming out of Denmark and Norway. Our submariners have been making them pay for it though.
It's because of this trade that many of the Ministers think we need to invade both Denmark and Norway. If Norway wasn't so isolated, then she would have joined the Allies already. But, for now, we've decided to keep the focus and pressure on the British and French.
While Rader and Goring were working on neutralizing Scapa Flow, the 2nd and 4th Panzer Corps were detached from 1st Panzer Army and assigned to the newly formed 2nd Panzer Army, with General Rommel placed in command. His mission was to keep the British from coming back into Scotland from Scapa Flow and, when the opportunity presented itself, to take both Scapa Flow and Lerwick.
The 1st Panzer was returned to France, where the 5th Panzer Corps and 6th Corps was attached to them. From there, they headed for the Yugoslav border. While my reason for not taking Denmark and Norway is that I want to keep the pressure up on the Allies, the taking of Yugoslavia and Romania will give us great access to the Eastern Mediterranean. The Bulgarians have successfully defeated the Greeks, except for Create and some islands. Once we have joined up with the Bulgarians, we can assist in finishing off the Greece. From there, I hope to jump into the Middle East.
The Italians have chased the French west across North Africa almost to the Atlantic. They have even been able to push the British and their Iraqi proxies back out of Libya. Even so, being able to take the Suez Canal for ourselves will deny that avenue of access to the British.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FItaliansinNAfrica.jpg&hash=9f89b8b312b77d83f90f6c198282b623270ace1a) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/ItaliansinNAfrica.jpg.html)
At the end of January we annexed Luxembourg. This was followed with an invasion of Belgium. As we had discussed before, the need to keep them from joining the Allies at an inopportune time for us. Not to mention the added industrial and research to our war efforts.
Speaking of our added production, Willy has done a superb job of racing around the conquered lands and getting things organized. Without him, I don't think we have seen a fraction of the increase this soon. The good Lord knows that I'm getting too old to run around like he can.
Even with the increase in productivity though, we still need more to meet our needs. The construction of radar stations is nearly complete here in Germany. We've also been able to keep working on the new sites in the western part of the Empire.
We've also been going as fast as we can to upgrade the units along the Polish border . I will never trust those godless Communists.
Speaking of the Commies. They keep requesting Lend-Lease aid. HA!. The Japanese homeland is under control of the British and the Americans have taken Korea and pushed up into China. As a bonus, they have also dipped a toe into Russia. Give me this year go kick the Allies out of the Med area and I'll be about ready to go after Russia.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FUSSRLendLeaseRequest.jpg&hash=1f7b0976d1c5d8b8620d5e50d4419fbcf168eca6) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/USSRLendLeaseRequest.jpg.html)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FFarEast.jpg&hash=d4fc5b58e559c60902b0c6c793a3925ab1190702) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/FarEast.jpg.html)
We're also forming up new army, naval, and air units. Construction on new supply ships continue, security units for the new lands, and improvements to the transportation networks in some areas. We'll need to continue those improvement to help with the movement of units and supplies, but we will need to scale it back. I think we could do nothing but infrastructure improvements for the next year and it would not be enough.
The good news with the increased productivity is that we have made a big dent in upgrading the equipment and gear that our men use to conduct war. There is plenty to do, but it has helped a lot. We're also needing to reorganize our research some, particularly for heavy bombers, carriers and heavy battleships so we can take on the best that the Americans have.
Just a quickie, sorry if its been addressed already.........
Youre Germany right?
How come your naval victories are addressed to 'Duce' and not 'Fuhrer'?
Quote from: undercovergeek on March 24, 2014, 07:44:23 PM
Just a quickie, sorry if its been addressed already.........
Youre Germany right?
How come your naval victories are addressed to 'Duce' and not 'Fuhrer'?
Yes, I'm Imperial Germany, not Nazi Germany. Kaiser Wilhelm III is the head of state. The DNVP is the ruling party. I'm not sure why I'm called Duce. I've looked to see how the title is set, but have not found it yet.
PART VI
'Damn. Are you sure.'
'Yes your Majesty. The BBC is broadcasting the news out of Cyprus. Evidently they bad it across the Black Sea to Turkey, where the Turks turned a blind eye to them while they crossed over to Iraq. From there the British got them to Calcutta.' Canaris stated.
'Any idea how this Government in Excile will affect things in there'
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FFallschjagertakesCluj.jpg&hash=71fb2df4c2cfe4cb33b27a61f3c4d72d28770d03) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/FallschjagertakesCluj.jpg.html)
Fallschjager in Cluj
'Hard to tell at the moment your Majesty.' Goebbels replied. 'I think a lot will depend on how we treat them.'
'Alright, there is nothing more to be done about it now. Except to capture Calcutta.'
That drew a few muted laughs. It as a bad joke after all.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FRomainiaSurrenders.jpg&hash=5b2623662a4462dcba1234fdc4713562c45ec4f7) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/RomainiaSurrenders.jpg.html)
Romania Surrenders
'Ok Wilhelm, any things else going on in the world that we should know'
'The British have seen an increase in production. We're not sure if it's new or lend-lease from the Americans. Perhaps both. '
'All the more reason to keep the pressure up on them now.' I turn and face General Beck.
'Ok Ludwig, let's hear the latest.'
'The Marines have secured Dakar and moved all the way north to Port Etienne. They also moved south and took the British area of Bathurst. There's a British Marine unit in Ziguinchar under French command. Once Rommel's artillery has finished being equipped and trained with the new self-propelled units they'll head down to join the Marines. From there they'll move along the Gold Coast.'
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FCapturingDakar.jpg&hash=7d548a4bb03bddd39e750f6805a1384e6f35cf20) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/CapturingDakar.jpg.html)
Storming the beaches in Dakar
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FInvadingGibaltar.jpg&hash=fde8d5f67d5e33aff50d0bba589d08621eb474e9) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/InvadingGibaltar.jpg.html)
The last British foothold in Europe falls
'von Manstein is moving 1st Panzer to the ports along Adriatic. Once there, they'll move on Egypt. After securing Alexandria and Cairo, they'll move east into the Holy Land and French Syria. Then cut over and drive for the Persian Gulf taking Iraq and Kuwait. '
'The British have taken Tobruk again and are pushing the Italians west. However, once we take the ports in Egypt and cut off their supplies, things should reverse for them. Plus von Manstein will send a Panzer Corps west to hit them on the back side. '
'Thanks Ludwig.'
'Erich, how are things with the navy.'
'It was a real moral boost to sink the Courbet when Dakar fell. And, the French really cannot afford the loses. That will put more pressure on the British and American navies'
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FCourbetSunk.jpg&hash=55d614de94a705f5f5c414b08038b0505564b6a0) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/CourbetSunk.jpg.html)
'Designs on the new carriers is just about complete, and we'll be able to start construction on them by end of the year. Design on the new battleships won't be ready until the first of next year. '
'The U-Boats are making a good dent into the Allies convoy's. But, they're also hurting our convoy's. If Ludwig's people can eliminate some of their African ports, it'll help a lot.'
'We really need to get more ships under construction. The single battle fleet is not enough for everything.'
'Hjalmar, what are our options?'
'As production frees up, we'll start first on the new carriers, then the battleships. Those take the longest to complete. Also, as research completes, we'll start new plans on the support units. As is always the case, our production needs are more than what we can meet at this time.'
'Alright. Hermann.'
'We're still researching longer range bombers. The current Ju-488's won't have the range to hit anything of importance in the states from Bermuda. If we can take the Bahamas, then we could do some damage in the south. '
I think about this for a few seconds. 'Perhaps after 2nd Panzer gets to Africa, we can look at sending the Marines for a vacation.'
'It may not do much damage to the Americans, but it may cause them to pause in the advances into China.'
'Alright. Constantin, anything for your office'
'The Bulgarians are very happy with their annexation of Greece. The Hungarians are happy with the their new lands from Yugoslavia. The Italians would have been happier with more of Yugoslavia, but they're ecstatic with their gains in Africa.'
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FGreeceFalls.jpg&hash=b4f35949d2f3a10cf245427bcf82c9e2cfeeec04) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/GreeceFalls.jpg.html)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1145.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo513%2FOJsDad%2FHoI3_6.jpg&hash=72cc9250713f03bd8f17a719cfba33c6ba23f21e) (http://s1145.photobucket.com/user/OJsDad/media/HoI3_6.jpg.html)
Dividing Yugoslavia
'Alright gentlemen. I know we're moving fast, and we seem to be stretching ourselves thin in places. But I believe we need to keep moving and not allow them Allies to regain their footing. And, if they should regain their footing, then they will have further to go to get their homes back. For now, our current plans are good. Let's call it a day.'
Bahamas ho!! 8) Will that be worthwhile, then (assuming you can get your forces moved there)?