Battle of Second Winchester, 1863

A glimpse of Scott's beautiful 28mm Federal troops

Kevin hosted an ACW game featuring three firsts:

• First time my 28mm ACW Sash & Saber Federal brigade saw action on the table
• First time Scott's extensive 28mm ACW collection saw action on the table
• First time the rules, Pickett's Charge, saw action on the gaming table

At start deployments

Since this would be our first trial of the game, Scott picked a straight forward clash recreating the Second Battle of Winchester where Union General Milroy attempted to breakout from the trap in which he found his command.

The line of battle from behind the Federal lines

Having a brigade of Federals to put into the game, Scott placed me in the shoes of the poor commander, Milroy.  With three full infantry brigades, one small reserve brigade, and three, six gun batteries, the Federal task was to either exit the opposite end of the table or die trying.  Stopping the Federal troops from their breakout was Rhodes' Confederate division.  The Rebel regiments were smaller than their Federal counterparts but many of their regiments were classified as "Elite" while almost all Federal regiments were classed as "Green." 

Federal right advances upon the enemy

After a preparatory artillery duel which managed to knock out one of the two Confederate batteries, the Federal right stepped off towards the enemy positions.

Federal right on the approach

While the Federal right began its advance after silencing one of the Rebel batteries, the Confederate cavalry swung around the flank in an attempt to outflank the Federal right.  The Federal battery buttressing the right flank poured a steady fire into the advancing Confederate cavalry.  Milroy repeatedly sent two ADCs to the rightmost guns to ensure a hot time was shown those enemy horsemen.  With artillery fire becoming too hot, the cavalry were forced to dismount.

Reb cavalry try to outflank the Federal troops

Seeing the wavering cavalry dismount, two Federal regiments set off to engage.  Unfortunately, the green Federal troops were too impetuous and took face fulls of lead on the approach.  Even though the Reb cavalry were dishing out great punishment, the Federal right was now screened.  The main Federal attack proceeded to march towards their objective knowing their flank was, for now, covered.

Federal troops advance calmly towards their destruction

As the Federals marched down the gently sloping hill towards the Confederate line, musketry and cannon fire increased.  The lead Federal regiment began to take heavy casualties.

Two Federal regiments redeploy to the right of the battle line

Thus far, Milroy maintained the initiative and was able to bring that advantage to bear by firing upon the enemy first in each turn.

Federals prepare to close

Just as the Federal right advanced into effective musketry range, initiative shifted over to the Confederates.  Oh my!  Caught in the open within effective range of the elite Confederate infantry.  Rather than take the expected devastating Rebel fire, Milroy ordered a charge and closed with the Confederate line. 

Despite having the advantage in numbers, the smaller elite Rebels regiments poured withering fire into the green Union troops.  Disaster among the Federal ranks!  All four regiments on the right were repulsed with heavy casualties.  Lead Federal regiments taking the most fire recoiled into their supports driving all before them.

Federals repulsed!

With the Federal right in disarray and unable to mount another attack, Milroy called off the attack and sent an ADC over to the Confederate HQ to discuss terms of surrender.  A dismal outing for Milroy and his Federal division.

With the Federal right repulsed, Milroy surrenders.

While a stinging defeat for Milroy, at least the Federal commander could take solace in a hearty lunch, good company, and beautiful troops.

What of the rules, Pickett's Charge?  I will save my first impressions for another post.