The Fightin' Was Desperate!

On Thursday last Paul and I met up in GHQ for our monthly game. As I'd recently completed two new Union regiments as you may have noticed, the 149th and 151st Pennsylvania Infantry, the choice of game was a no-brainer. I laid out a smallish game: three small Union Brigades encamped astride the turnpike were attacked by four small Confederate Brigades. 

All the Rebels start from the baseline while only one Union Brigade is in the camp,  the remaining two off table until at least Turn 3. 

In Turn 1 the Rebs have the initiative, but in Turn 2 we diced for it. The winner would keep the Initiative for 3 Turns before we would redice, then again in Turn 9. Enough background, as you'd expect now an annotated photomontage to carry you into the action ~

A battery of 20lb Parrot rifled pieces defend the Union campsite astride the Turnpike. They look intimidating but proved pretty ineffective in the main.

The Rebs' initial movements are hesitant on their right but more aggressive on their left.  

Union troops have rushed into position on the right flank, supported by their battery of artillery. They steady themselves to give the Rebs a warm welcome.

On the Union left the Rebs have made slow going initially,  but by Turn 3 they are pressing forward there and down the Turnpike in the centre. 

The boys from Pennsylvania have formed up and nervously await the coming storm of shot and shell. 

The expected reinforcements, the Oirish Brigade, arrive in the nick of time down the Turmpike, having failed to appear on the Rebs' left flank! 

They sweep forward in support of the 149th Pennsylvania, who despite being caught in Open Order have fought off the Rebs for three Turns! Huzzah!

On the Union right a fierce firefight takes place with both sides taking losses but refusing to Break under the pressure. The other Brigade of reinforcements would be more than welcome!

Bayonets! Union and Rebel columns clash on the turnpike. If the Rebs break through here the Union line will be split disastrously. 

Your intrepid reported lurking near the Union HQ in the hope of discovering what is planned and what is unfolding. He must have childlike faith to think they know!

A battery of 12lb Napoleons has been in constant action since the Reb assault began. Their fire has supported the hard pressed infantry hanging in there on the Union right flank. Without them the line may have been flanked and the army beaten!

To the dismay of the Reb Commander the second Brigade of reinforcements arrive in the nick of time, helping the beleaguered centre to halt the Reb attack and then drive them back. The Rebs are pushed back all across the front and as Turn 10 approaches Paul concedes defeat! 

A cracking game for both of us, lasting almost 4 hours either side of lunch. I may order some more figures from Dixon Miniatures after that... In the meantime some further photos from Paul of the game in action ~

Both of us hope that you enjoyed these bonus photos of the collection in action! Some of these figures go back more years than I care to contemplate. Please do consider leaving a comment if you feel able, all are appreciated.