A Bridge to Victory

Photo courtesy wargamesinthedungeon

In the final installment of the three game mini-campaign following the exploits of obtaining 'Old Molly', the Americans have the difficult task of bridging a river under the face of enemy fire.  Seemed unlikely when I first saw the scenario.  Seemed more of a possibility as the game wore on.  Seemed unlikely again after the Americans faced a near catastrophic turn of events.

While the Americans could come on anywhere on their side of the board, the British would arrive at random locations on their side of the board.  Bridging sites were not confined to the obvious locations but the Americans could build a bridge or bridges anywhere along the river. 

Battle map.  Photo courtesy wargamesinthedungeon

Given the terrain, as the American, I figured the best protected place to bridge would be at the road at the top of the table.  At this site, my flank could not be turned and the wheatfield would offer cover to my troops as they protected the bridging party.

For another perspective (and better photos!), please visit Matt's battle account at AWI Campaign: Old Molly Part 3.

Let's see how this action played out.  Play-by-Play embedded within photos.

Photo courtesy wargamesinthedungeon

For the third game in this trilogy, the outcome was in the balance until the very end.  As the American commander, I saw no path to victory at the start.  How could I build a bridge in the face of enemy fire?  I figured the scenario would be a rear-guard action with the Americans trying to delay the British until the bridge could be built.  Imagine my surprise to discover that the bridging sites were contested by enemy troops as Jessop arrived!

Hat's off to Matt for another close and exciting game.  The battle swayed to and fro and victory was up for grabs until the very end. Well done!

Another mini-campaign is under consideration.