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#4467248 - 03/24/19 12:49 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) ***** [Re: Raine]  
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RAF_Louvert Offline
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L'Etoile du Nord
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Scout, off to the scouts, eh? Here's hoping that Aleck's transfer is approved, the lucky bugger.

Fullofit, a nice, fresh livery for Gaston. And speaking of fresh, I'm surprised you didn't say that Swan-eee had gone for a quick-eee.

Mark, an outstanding tale! We knew Jericho would be the man to manage a successful boar hunt.

.

#4467252 - 03/24/19 01:13 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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lederhosen Offline
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Germany
24 März 1916

Finally the waiting was over. Four nights of red wine, champagne and cognac had taken its toll, and not only to his wallet. Willi was feeling bloated and heavy. His head still wasn't all that clear either.
How is it that everyone else boasts about how much they can drink ? A universal question of youth around the world. Still, the weather had cleared after days of rain and snow. The airfield was again laud with the noise of war flying. Everyone was thankful to be working once more.

Today's romp was to babysit an Aviatik cooperating with the VII reserve Corps north of Beaumont.
Artillery needed to be corrected again. The two crews looked at the maps, making remarks and plans. Then they were off, back into the air.

The cold air was refreshing at 3000m. Willi became annoyed with the Aviatik and had to keep turning back to keep the thing in sight. Eventually they arrived at the front and began to circle, waiting for the Aviatik to establish radio contact with the gun battry below. Willi and his Roland were along for the ride, the Aviatik crew gave the orders. Finally the Aviatik straightened out and went over to what was Louvemont, the shoot was on.

The two craft went back and forth east to west until it became boring. Oblt.Preuss was scanning above and Willi below. From the French side two small specks, quite low, were moving over the lines. One was an odd color that stood out against the white and brown surface below. Willi kept his eye on them and the Aviatik. Eventually a red flair arched it's way from the Aviatik, the agreed signal that the shoot was over. The two moved off 10 km NE of the lines and turned for home.

Obltn.Preuss, Willi's passenger, passed a note into the cockpit. He wanted to hang around the front and hope some Franzmann showed up. Seems that Preuss was suffering from a “sore-throat”. Willi took a deep breath and nodded in agreement. Preuss waved the the Aviatik crew off, they were to RTB alone. The Roland banked to the right and moved back to the front lines. The Franzmann didn't make them wait long.

Flak caught Willi's attention near Flabas. Below were the same two specks that he spotted a while back. They where quite low, perhaps looking for ground targets. The Roland rolled from side to side and Willi pointed below. It took some time but eventually Preuss made them out too. The odds were against them so Willi took his time and followed hoping that one of them would come up to fight. Tracer from positions below began firing at the Frenchmen....they were flying a little too low for their own good. Now one of the machines headed south, he was running for home, he must have been hit. The other one, the bright colored one, turned north to escape. A mistake on his part. He was moving behind Hun positions..our side. Both men set themselves to the task. Willi kicked his Roland over into a dive. This time he wasn't going to overshoot the target.

As they got ever closer Willi couldn't believe his eyes... the Franzmann was a bright red, the whole aricraft, one of the newer types that had been reported a few days ago. Willi's hangover was gone. All his senses came back to him. He wasn't cold anymore. One quick look through his sights...blast the bugger had turned suddenly to the left. He knew they were coming for him. Willi used the excess speed to climb in the hope that he could fall back onto the tail of this “Christmas-sled”. The maneuver worked but the nimble adversary just kept turning tight to the left. No matter what Willi did “Santa” was starting to win this fight. It was no use following the N11, the Roland was just to heavy to keep up. Willi got his bearings and headed for the trenches while Preuss started to warn the Franzmann to keep his distance. If the Roland was a brick in a turn fight, on the level she was a race horse. The distance between the two was getting greater.

A cheer went up from the trenches of the 7th Jäger Rgt. Some still tried to bag the French machine for themselves. Bets were made as to the winner. They had seen this red devil before and knew that it didn't look good for their comrade in the air. The roar of the engines and the MG fire was easily heard. The Hun suddenly turned to face his red Nemesis. The two flew passed each other, firing the whole time. Everyone was impressed as the the little red aircraft seemed to almost stop and turn back to follow the “Whale”. All eyes strained upwards following the unequal fight. “now he's got him” someone said aloud. No one spoke. The inevitable was about to happen. Would he crash or burn was now the wager.

Suddenly the two parted, one north and the other south. The fight was over, almost anticlimactic. Everyone cheered and clapped for the short break in their war.

It was a very sobering event in deed.

[Linked Image]

Last edited by lederhosen; 03/24/19 07:16 PM.

make mistakes and learn from them

I5 4440 3.1Ghz, Asrock B85m Pro3, Gtx 1060 3GB
#4467254 - 03/24/19 01:43 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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L'Etoile du Nord
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So Willi got to tangle with Jean Navarre and his red N11. Lederhosen, your fellow was lucky to get away from that one with nothing more than some ruffled feathers. Good stuff!

.

#4467259 - 03/24/19 02:18 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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lederhosen Offline
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yep...pood my britches on this one.


make mistakes and learn from them

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#4467260 - 03/24/19 02:40 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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RAF_Louvert Offline
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hee hee - you could blame it on too much castor oil in your diet, but you're not flying a rotary so that excuse is out.

.

#4467312 - 03/24/19 09:00 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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77_Scout Offline
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Aleck A. MacKinlay
March 25, 1916

As we climbed out of the aircraft, Chris was full of beans. "Darn good work Aleck, darn good! Neither of those buggers even got a shot at us. All the way back for miles and they never got a shot. Made them look silly, you did! I think I drove a third one off with the Lewis!"

The Fokkers hadn't really been trying too hard, I thought to myself. Probably rookies ... it had been easy to out-turn them. And no, Chris hadn't hit anything with the Lewis, as usual, but I kept my mouth shut.

I was distracted; where were Norton and Xavier? They had carried on home, not noticing the two Eindekkers sneaking up behind. And where was Davis? His Bristol hadn't even shown up over the recon area. Not good.

We headed in to see the adjutant and make our report, all the time listening for aero-engines that might announce the arrival of the missing aircraft. Nothing.

On our way to the mess for lunch we were met by the Major. His face told the tale. "Davis is dead. Attacked by two Fokkers near Neuve Chapelle. He landed near a balloon regiment with a bullet in the chest and no magazine on his gun. They got him while he was trying to reload, I suppose. Xavier and his observer are at LaGorge, a bit shot up. Norton is there too, and apparently knocked down one of the Hun. At least that's a bit of good news."

So that's it. The Fokkers arrived in our area today in force and caught us napping and complacent. The sadness for the loss of Davis is palpable in the mess tonight; he was one of he most likable fellows in the squadron and a fine leader. We will carry on tomorrow, just as he would have wanted.




Attached Files Combat Flight Simulator 3 Screenshot 2019.03.23 - 11.53.10.90.jpg
Last edited by 77_Scout; 03/24/19 09:01 PM.
#4467315 - 03/24/19 09:27 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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carrick58 Offline
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Wow some nicely done tales.

#4467336 - 03/24/19 11:56 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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MFair Offline
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Wulfe, excellent stories as always. Glad to see you are getting a break from the madness.
Scout, I am jealous Sir! A scout squadron. Reading your last mission you may want to take care so you can see this transfer through.
Fullofit, that is one fine looking machine. Nice touch!
Lederhosen, stay clear of those brightly painted machines. Usually are not rookies. Nice to see the boys in the trenches getting their view.

Lt. Mark Jericho
Bruay Aerodrome

The hog hunt yesterday was just what Jericho needed. Almost 3 months of combat flying were starting to take its toll. His last mission on the 20th before the weather closed in made him snap. Before takeoff at 9 he and Christian were told that their claim was denied. That had really chapped his saddle. Now they were circling southeast of Bruay waiting for the DH2 escorts. Jericho had never seen a DH2 but he sure wanted to. The weather was cloudy but not too bad except for the wind. He was having a time keeping formation with Griffen and Dickens. They circled for 20 minuets before Griffen signaled that they were going without them. Jericho was fuming. "Seven miles behind the lines to bomb Haubourdin with no escorts! This is insane!" He kept waiting for Griffen to take them higher but they crossed the lines at 1500'. Jericho considered letting his eggs go over the German trenches and heading back but he kept going. At one point he shouted at Dickens "Go ahead you son of a B#@ch, kill us all!!" knowing full well he could not hear him. Over Haubourdin archie came up with a vengeance! It rocked the three machines about something awful. Jericho heard the shrapnel shriek by It made his skin crawl knowing first hand what a piece of it could do. Finally Griffen dropped his eggs and Jericho and Dickens followed. All three turned around and headed back with the archie following them. Jericho scanned the skies for the Fokkers he knew would come but they never did.

As soon as they landed Jericho jumped from is Morane and made a beeline for Griffens machine. "That was bulls#%t Captain! No escorts and at 1500' for god's sake! I don't mind dyin' but I'll be da#@ed if I am going to put my head on a silver plater!"
"Stand down Lieutenant!" Captain Griffen said. Christian got between the Captain and Jericho with his palms up toward Jericho. He knew better than to put a hand on him at the moment. "Easy Mark! Take a breath and turn around. Let it go." Christian said. With that Jericho took one more look at the captain and left.

Jericho was in his hut when Morris, the batman entered. "Pardon Lieutenant but you are wanted in the Major's office immediately Sir." Jericho was far from calmed down but he knew he had overstepped. "On my way " he replied. When he entered the Major's office he was sitting at his desk with Captain Griffen standing to one side. He came to the desk and stood at attention giving his best salute. The Major eyed him for a few minuets and then stood up, tapping his finger on his desk for a few moments. "I have tolerated your outbursts because you are from America fighting for us of your own free will. To be clear Lieutenant, and I want to make this very clear. The only reason you are not court martialed at worst, or sent to another squadron to give someone else a headache is that Captain Griffen here says your one of the best pilots in the squadron!" The Major eyed Jericho for a few moments to let his words sink in. "Do you have anything to say Lieutenant?!" he added.

"Yes Sir! I'll fly with the Captain any time he takes a notion.....Sir" The Major looked at Griffen and asked. "Is that satisfactory to you Captain?" The Captain looked at the Major and answered "Satisfactory Sir."
"You are dismissed Lieutenant" the Major said as he sat down. "By the way Lieutenant" the Major said stopping Jericho in his tracks. Jericho turned around to face the Major again. When he did the Major looked up "It seems C Flight gave Haubourdin a black eye. Well done!"
"Thank you Sir. With all due respect she was hard to miss from 1500!" Jericho said as he saluted and walked out.

The Major looked at Captain Griffen."He's all yours Captain" he said shaking his head.

"Thank you Major" said Captain Griffen. "He's a bit of an odd bird but one good pilot and he has not shied away from a fight yet."


Never approach a bull from the front, a horse from the rear or a fool from either end.
BOC Member since....I can't remember!
#4467337 - 03/25/19 12:28 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: RAF_Louvert]  
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Fullofit Offline
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Originally Posted by RAF_Louvert
Fullofit, a nice, fresh livery for Gaston. And speaking of fresh, I'm surprised you didn't say that Swan-eee had gone for a quick-eee.

Lou, this isn't that kind of a forum. nope We wouldn't want Swany's pants to get stick-eee.

Lederhosen, that was a once in a lifetime encounter. Glad your pilot lived to tell the tale.

Scout, sorry to hear about Davis. The man is a hero to bring his machine down before snuffing it.

MFair, it seems a lot of pilots have visited the C.O.'s office recently. Yours drew the short straw. Hopefully he won't be passed over for promotion because of that little incident.


24 March, 1916 9:45
Senard, Verdun Sector
Escadrille N37
Adjutant Gaston A. Voscadeaux
2 confirmed kills

The snowfall came to an end late yesterday. Gaston and the rest of the Escadrille were waiting impatiently for this day and the chance to take their new aeroplanes up in the air and test them out. Caporal Papinet of the “A” flight was tasked with arty spotting south of St. Mihiel and Gaston with his wingman, Caporal Dreux and Adjutant Barnay in the “B” flight were providing cover.
Gaston was the first one up in take off cue. He was up in the air in two shakes of a lamb's tail, completely being astonished how quick and agile his machine was. He was itching to pit it against one of the Boche monoplanes. For a moment it looked like Papinet was going to scrub the mission. His N12 continued to circle the aerodrome, but eventually everything sorted itself out and they were on their way. Voscadeaux marveled how fast his new plane was. It was a race car of the skies, completely outclassing all the previous models.
Caporal Papinet with his escort in tow arrived over the target and busied himself with the ranging duties. The “B” flight circled nearby looking out for any hostile machines that would dare approach. It didn’t take long before one of them appeared on the horizon. It was an Aviatik and by the time its crew realized what was about to happen and got their crate turned around, Gaston and his two wingmen were all over them. Voscadeaux took the first turn and nearly collided with the two-seater, such was the speed of the new scout to which Gaston wasn’t accustomed. Next, it was Cpl. Dreux who followed close by. He replicated Gaston’s approach and attack angle, but this time the Boche was ready. Gaston watched as the German rear gunner sent a lethal volley into Dreux’s engine compartment. The machine immediately caught on fire and its pilot lost all control, perhaps killed instantly. The Nieuport ploughed into the top starboard plane of the Aviatik before plunging down trailing a thick tail of black smoke in enemy territory. It all happened so quickly that Gaston didn’t even have time to cry out “No!” He realized the control column was digging into his clenched fist. He was furious and vowed to avenge his fallen friend. Adj. Barnay and Gaston took turns at pecking at the damaged enemy crate and finally Gaston's last volley brought the two-seater down. He watched it plummet towards the ground in a nearly vertical dive. It was a small consolation to watch the Hun go down. They rejoined the “A” flight and turned back home. Gaston didn’t feel like celebrating. His friend was gone. His funeral would be performed, if at all, for a pilot with no name. His grave lost and forgotten.



"Take the cylinder out of my kidneys,
The connecting rod out of my brain, my brain,
From out of my arse take the camshaft,
And assemble the engine again."
#4467341 - 03/25/19 12:54 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Wulfe Offline
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Another great batch of stories! I find myself simultaneously being glad to be away from the front, but also keen to get back!

Lou - sounds like Swan-eee may be getting luck-eee before too long...

Scout - oho! A transfer to a DH2 outfit! Sounds like some exhilarating times are ahead for MacKinlay! Here's hoping he scores many a victory. Sobering news about Davis - very unexpected.

Fullofit - that is a
🅥ery cool personal insignia. Looks great on your Nieuport - I imagine every Hun in France will recognise it before too long.

MFair - Great story about the hunt!! For a moment you had me thinking "Uh-Oh, they've missed it!! How will Georgette react?" - after I kept reading I was as surprised and excited as Jericho! Great stuff. That being said - let's hope Jericho can master his temper. He was lucky to get off so lightly at the Major's mercy!

Lederhosen
- what an epic of the skies. I was on the edge of my seat during that one...I wonder when you'll next encounter Navarre. By any means, you're braver than I...if I saw a machine that bold, I'd be keen not to find out what made the pilot so sure of himself!



2nd. Lieut. Graham A. Campbell,
No. 20 Squadron R.F.C (On Leave)
London, England.

March 24th, 1916.


Having had a wonderful breakfast of bacon, eggs and coffee at the Cavendish, I had asked my hostess, Rosa Lewis, if she could direct me to Savile Row. She willingly obliged, but not before pointing out to me that there was a handful of bespoke tailors on Jermyn Street. I thanked her, but explained “I rather want to see a bit of London while I am here”. I was happy to learn that Savile Row was not far at all, only one street parallel to Picadilly, on the other side of the Royal Academy of Arts - a grandiose building offering a luxurious architectural decadence to rival the Palace itself.

Turning onto Savile row, I looked down the endless rows of tailors, outside of which officers were pooled up, some collecting uniforms and, inside, having their measurements taken. Fortunately, Hawkes & Co, the Major’s suggestion, sat on the corner of Savile Row and Vigo Street, and I had no chance to get lost. Sheepishly I pushed the door open and stepped into a large two-storey foyer, ornate bannisters bracketing an upper floor that was supported by finely crafted marble pillars. From the upper level, a pair of cavalry officers regarded me with unimpressed eyes. Before I could acclimatise, a small, thin tailor appeared, a measuring tape slung around his neck and a thick-set pair of glasses resting below his finely cut greying hair. “Good afternoon, Sir,” he offered in a manner that reminded me of my old school teachers. I returned the greeting, before fumbling into my next sentence. “I, er, need a uniform”. The Tailor blinked, awaiting the continuation of my sentence which, out of my own ignorance, he was not graced with. After a silence that lingered a moment too long for comfort, he cleared his throat, his eyes flicking over the length of me in a flash. “Ah, I see. Congratulations on your promotion, sir. Shall we take your measurements?”

I was led to the side, where immediately the Tailor sprung into action in impressively fast and methodical movements. Before I could make sense of what was happening I was having the tape wrapped around my torso, being spun every which-way and almost involuntarily stretching my arms out to the side upon the Tailor’s command. I felt that my measurements were more being stolen, rather than taken. As he worked away, he begun to fire questions at me at a pace I found it hard to contend with - questions about cut, accessory, style, and so on. He also asked me what infantry regiment I had belonged to before the war. I told him that I had been a Sherwood Forester, but didn’t see the relevance. I appreciated that, despite my obvious social standing, he was treating me as any officer, but at the same time I struggled not to become overwhelmed.

The tape flashing across my vision as it made its way to and from my extremities, the Tailor finally asked “Naturally you shall want two uniforms? Or, perhaps three?”. What the devil would I need three uniforms for?!. “Two will be fine, thank you” I replied, not quite fully understanding the function of the extra one. “Very good, sir”. From there it was on to the footwear, and I was made to try on all kinds of different items, from comfortable leather shoes to full-length riding boots.

My purchase immediately eliminated a quarter of my spending money, much to my horror. Had I relied solely on the uniform allowance given to me by the Major, I would have had not a penny left! The Tailor asked me where I was currently residing, and explained that my uniforms would be ready to be picked up in four days. Despite the unfamiliar experience, I felt very pleased with myself as I left the tailors, despite still being in my old tattered Sergeant’s uniform (which was earning me a handful of irritated looks from the various officers nearby). Even the muttered “...Bloody temporary gentleman...” coming from a nearby artillery captain could not lower my mood as I headed back towards Picadilly, intent on exploring the limits of my rare position of wealth. Firstly, I set about the work of replacing my battered flying kit. On Jermyn Street I found a hattery named ‘Bates’. Inside, the proprietor excitedly showed me The Tempest, their top of the line flying helmet. By comparison to my old hard leather flying cap, it was lightweight, soft, comfortable, and very warm. Excitedly I purchased it, coupled with an R.F.C Cap to match my new uniform and a new pair of lightweight flying goggles.

[Linked Image]


At Harrods I purchased a new leather flying coat. Unlike my old coat, this one hung below my knees and was lined with a wonderfully soft wool. Later, I procured a pair of silk gloves, and some new gauntlets to wear them under. The gauntlets were a popular type - the fingers were covered by mittens which could be folded back, for when extra dexterity was required. I returned to the Cavendish feeling very pleased with life in general.

I deposited my new items in my room, before heading to the sitting room, where one of Rosa’s Soiree’s was already in full swing. As I entered, she happily greeted me and asked me how I was enjoying my time in London, and like a schoolchild I excitedly babbled to her about my new purchases, as she reclined in her chair, listening to me in amusement. “Well, it sounds like you’re starting to become a proper Officer, Mr. Campbell! But, you’re missing one thing”. I blinked at her confusedly, to which she smiled coyly, beckoning over one of her attendees. She whispered something in his ear, and he disappeared briefly, before coming back with a small scrap of paper. As he handed it to me, Rosa spoke again. “Every good English Officer needs an appropriate weapon…”

I looked down at the note, which bore an address. WILLIAM EVANS, GUN & RIFLE MAKERS, 67A ST. JAMES STREET”.

#4467345 - 03/25/19 01:36 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Fullofit Offline
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Wulfe, how did you get that “V” to show like that?! I’m really enjoying your narrative. It feels like I’m there with Graham getting those measurements taken stolen. I hope there was no “cupping” (Friends reference). Looking forward to the next instalment. Hope he’ll get to sample some of the wares. I bet he’ll settle for a Webley. salute


"Take the cylinder out of my kidneys,
The connecting rod out of my brain, my brain,
From out of my arse take the camshaft,
And assemble the engine again."
#4467356 - 03/25/19 09:10 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Wulfe Offline
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Just googled text symbols, found the appropriate one and copied / pasted!

Rotten luck about Dreux, didn't notice before. Forgive my superstitions, but I find it spooky that the only man to blot out his initial was brought down immediately...

Last edited by Wulfe; 03/25/19 09:11 AM.
#4467367 - 03/25/19 11:56 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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L'Etoile du Nord
.

Scout, too bad about Davis, yet another brave lad gone off to sing with the choir invisible. Aleck and his crew are going to have to be extra mindful now that the Eindeckers have found them.

MFair, Jericho really needs to learn to curb that temper of his, or at least pick his targets more carefully. We don't want our man ending up in the Glasshouse.

Fullofit, condolences as well for Dreux. Things are getting very deadly around here and your video says it all.

Wulfe, it looks like Graham is really making the most of his R&R in London. I envy him. And off to buy a sidearm, eh? Swany has been considering such a purchase as well, though the main reason to have one along when flying makes him cringe just thinking about it. He may opt for "the big jump" instead, if ever he finds himself in the situation. Love the old advert by the way.

.

25 March, 1916
Bruay, France
3 Squadron, R.F.C.
2nd Lt. Randolph Arvid Swanson MC
8 confirmed victories

The fine weather had returned, but not before a fresh dusting of snow had been dropped on the French countryside. Swany and Captain Craig and one other team of B Flight had been given two identical sorties yesterday and today: the bombing of the rail yard at Athies. On both occasions the boys from Bruay were graced with escorts in the form of D.H.2s from 24 Squadron. Also during both outings the skies had been clear and cold, with large white clouds floating about everywhere. Each trip went off perfectly, with the escorts being at the prescribed rendezvous at the appointed time and actually sticking with the Moranes all the way to the target and back rather than chasing off somewhere else. Winds aloft were very strong out of the west, which not only served to make aiming the bombs nearly impossible but also lengthened the return time to camp by a goodly amount. Not a single EA was seen either day so the Aircos had little to do but enjoy the scenery, and while the scouts may have been bored Swany and the Captain were quite fine with the lack of Fokkers.

Beautiful flying weather and not an Eindecker in sight.
[Linked Image]


This morning, after landing and completing his AAR, Swany headed out to the woods near the field to check his bird trap. During his visit last week to Georgette he had mentioned that he could supply her with some fresh quail for the upcoming meal she would be helping prepare for James and his former host family back in Auchel. To this end Swany had procured a couple of pounds of wheat from a local farmer and he'd been using this to bait a spot on one of the more active bird runs he had found. He'd also managed to scrounge three or so square yards of some wire mesh and several feet of mechanic's wire that he used to fashion the trap. It was a circular affair, roughly four feet in diameter and a foot high, with a roof on the top and open on the bottom. There were two arched openings 4" across and 8" tall that sat opposite each other in the wall of the trap. Into each of these openings was fitted a wire mesh "throat" about 10" long that tapered into the trap, going from the size of the wall opening down to a doorway about the size of a man's clenched fist. The quail would enter at the large end of the throat and walk along, ducking down to slip through the small end. Once inside the trap they could not figure out how to get back out. A fairly simple device, but a proven and effective one which Swany had originally been shown years ago by Kakaygeesick, the elder chief of the Chippewa tribe back in Warroad, Minnesota. Swany had modernized it somewhat by twisting it together using wire mesh, rather than weaving it out of willow saplings or reeds. And the native design was fairly dome-like while his was shaped more like a large wheel of cheese. Still, the basic concept remained unchanged.

After two days of baiting the chosen bird run Swany had set up the trap. He'd jammed a few sticks into the ground to support the roof in several spots then set the trap in place with the openings lined up on the trail. He'd next weighted it down around the edges with some small stones and placed a handful of twigs and leaves here and there on the top to make it appear more "natural" to the birds. He'd also left the throats uninstalled at first in order to have the quail more readily accept the trap being there and to allow them to move in and out of it freely. Plus, he'd sprinkled an extra amount of wheat just inside the openings to draw the birds in. It sat that way for a day. Then last night, just at sundown, he had gone back and installed the throats and re-baited the trap. When he returned after this morning's sortie to check on the results of his efforts he was happily surprised to find no less than seventeen quail inside the wire cage.
"James will be pleased", Swany muttered to himself as he removed the birds one-by-one from the trap and dropped them into a large gunny sack he'd brought along. There would be more than enough rôti for the Poiriers thank you dinner his friend had planned for tomorrow. Of course the birds still needed to be dispatched and cleaned, but Collins and Jericho could help with that.

.

#4467416 - 03/25/19 05:28 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 3,696
Fullofit Offline
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Fullofit  Offline
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Posts: 3,696
Ajax, ON
Wulfe, google the text symbols ... simple yet effective. Additional work for extra credit smile Yes, Gaston feels partially responsible. It was him, after all, who inadvertently came up with the idea.
Lou, finally some peace and quiet in the air. Perhaps you got all the Huns last time around? Now they’re waiting for replacements. It looks like this will be a feast. Quail and boar, oh my!


"Take the cylinder out of my kidneys,
The connecting rod out of my brain, my brain,
From out of my arse take the camshaft,
And assemble the engine again."
#4467417 - 03/25/19 06:12 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: Dec 2012
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MFair Offline
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MFair  Offline
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Posts: 3,086
Fullofit, great video. I would suppose your victory is a bit bitter sweet seeing your friend go down like that. We will all witness more of this as time goes on.

Wulfe, you will be biggest toad in the pond Sir! Great reading.

Lou, I’m ready to eat! And yes, Jericho needs to check his temper but he can’t help it. Jericho is based on Fredrick Libby. A cowboy who flew for the RFC. He led one heck of a life. His book “Horses don’t Fly” is a great read. Raine turned me on to it. Jericho is also a bit of myself at his age. Luckily, I learned to keep my mouth shut and don’t piss off those who have the power. Jericho will too if he lives long enough. I dare say much quicker than I!

Last edited by MFair; 03/25/19 06:14 PM.

Never approach a bull from the front, a horse from the rear or a fool from either end.
BOC Member since....I can't remember!
#4467422 - 03/25/19 07:08 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 4,879
RAF_Louvert Offline
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RAF_Louvert  Offline
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L'Etoile du Nord
.

MFair, "Horses Don't Fly" is an outstanding book, one of the best of the personal pilot recollections in my humble opinion. You couldn't go wrong modeling your Jericho after Libby. And, with age comes wisdom, at least for those of us who are lucky.

Fullofit, I doubt very much Swany got all the Hun. I'm sure there are still plenty to go around, twice. And a feast indeed! There will even be morels, (or "morilles" in the French vernacular). Swany found dozens of the delectable fungi popping up around the base of an old, broken apple tree back in the woods near where he had set up his quail trap.

.

#4467426 - 03/25/19 07:38 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: Nov 2014
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Fullofit Offline
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Fullofit  Offline
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Ajax, ON
Lou, Swany was very lucky to find this delicious mushroom this early in the spring. I, like all the Hobbits enjoy all sorts of fungi. Oh, wait that did not come out right.


"Take the cylinder out of my kidneys,
The connecting rod out of my brain, my brain,
From out of my arse take the camshaft,
And assemble the engine again."
#4467428 - 03/25/19 07:45 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: Aug 2018
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Wulfe Offline
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Wulfe  Offline
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Posts: 321
Lou - Seems that Swany's exhausted the Fokker supply in the area - the local wildlife will have to do instead, apparently! Sounds like No.3's in for a proper banquet.

Fullofit - I was re-reading your last couple entries. I can't kick the image of Dreux happily painting his machine with his tongue sticking out, completely oblivious of what was coming...Fantastic storytelling.



2nd. Lieut. Graham A. Campbell,
No. 20 Squadron R.F.C (On Leave)
London, England.

March 25th, 1916.


As I rounded the corner of Ryder St., turning onto St. James’ St., I marvelled at the high buildings on either side, likening them to great white rows of jagged teeth. I felt I was being swallowed by the city as I scanned the store fronts for William Evans, the Gunmakers. To my left I noticed the overpowering aura of tobacco, and upon further inspection noticed a Tobacconist, outside of which an Infantry Captain and a RFC Lieutenant were chatting away, comparing the harshness of their roles in friendly contest. “You’ve never had to go over the top, dear boy!” the Captain argued. The Airman scoffed. “Over the top? I do nothing but go over the top! You, on the other hand, are fortunate to never have experienced flying through a storm!”.

The tobacconist they lingered in front of looked inviting. Inside, several deep lounge chairs, of smooth black leather, hosted various officers, and even some NCOs crowded indoors, staring longingly at the rows of cigar boxes that lined the walls. I read the name painted above the door - James J. Fox - and felt the allure of the place, before again turning back to my search. Before I could take more than two steps, I heard the voice of the Lieutenant call out “Sergeant! What do you think? Are the trenches worse?”. I spun around on my heel to see the Airman and the Captain watching me expectantly. “Er, well, I can’t imagine either being worse than the other…” I replied, cautious to retain my neutrality. The Captain scoffed. “I just can’t see how flying one of those contraptions could pose any danger, unless of course you crash the bloody thing!”. An image of McHarg’s Fee slamming into the ground flashed in my mind, and despite myself I felt irritation rising.

Forgetting myself, I remarked “Every Hun has a machine-gun up there, Sir. And they only aim for you”. He reddened, as the Airman smirked. “Was it a Fokker?” he asked, and I shook my head. “Aviatik. We got the bugger, but his observer managed a burst away before his bus caught fire”. The Airman’s smirk faded. “Flames,” he mumbled, almost inaudible, his gaze distant, “awful way to go…”.

Leaving the airman to his private torments, I continued on, finding the Gunsmiths shortly after. Stepping through the door, I was braced to see the walls lined with hunting rifles, in-between which were cabinets displaying various revolvers against red velvet. The owner, an older man with a kindly face, approached me. “Good afternoon, Sergeant! How may I help?”. I explained to him my recent commission, and that I was after a sidearm upon the recommendation of a friend. His face lit up, and he rushed between several cabinets, unlocking them with a key and removing one or two pistols, lining his selections out on the counter-top. He beckoned me over, and he excitedly talked me through them. Colts, Webleys, Smith & Wessons, and one large ungainly pistol named the ‘Mars’.

I listened keenly as he explained the function of each pistol, but none seemed especially unique to me. Thanking him for his help, I begun to browse the display cabinets. Finally I had settled on a Browning, which the owner brought to the counter. As he was asking me if I required any ammunition, however, a previously unnoticed display cabinet, tucked neatly behind the counter, made itself apparent to me. Cutting him off, I asked “what’s in there?”. He peered back at the cabinet, opening it and removing three more pistols. As he laid them out, he sheepishly explained "These ones are a little more expensive". I chose not to interpret the comment as a slant. The second firearm he placed down - a revolver - immediately caught my attention. It was a Webley, short-barrelled - good for fitting into the Bus - finished in sleek black. On the handle sat smooth ivory grips. I slowly lifted the pistol - it was heavy, but not overly so. A good weight. Slowly, I cocked back the hammer, the
cylinder smoothly turning in place, before sharply clicking into position. De-cocking the hammer, I slowly placed it down on the counter. “This one feels good.” I told the gunsmith, and he nodded. "An appropriate choice, Lieutenant".

[Linked Image]

Feeling quite the thing, I made my way into the sitting-room, asking an attendee to bring me a cup of tea, if he didn't mind. In there was a slim RNAS Sub-Lieutenant, around which three bright-eyed Airmen were crowded. I listened as he talked of a new Sopwith two-seat type, expected any day at the front. “It’s faster than the Fokker and the Aviatik, and manoeuvres like the devil!” he crooned, as the room listened in quiet awe. “And what’s more, not only does it have a Lewis in back, but also a synchronised Vickers for the pilot!”. Excitedly, the pilots leaned in. “How fast?” one asked, and a grin escaped the Sub-Lieutenant. “100 miles an hour!” That was faster than our fees - and even the DH2! “And, you know, No. 5 Wing already has a handful! We expect to be fully re-equipped by April!”. Sipping my tea, I wondered if No. 20 would be so lucky as to get their hands on this new wonder-machine.

I decided to turn in early, and avoid a third night of decadence on-the-trot. That night, I lay my Webley on the side cabinet and took a moment to look it over before settling into bed. As my finger ran along the ivory, my mind flitted to Clairmarais. How were the boys getting on, while I enjoyed Caviar and Champagne and made decadent purchases in London? For some reason unknown to me, I felt a pang of guilt, picturing Switch-Off, Jimmy, Graves, Reid, and all the others, shivering in their Nacelles, their eyes worriedly tracing clouds and flicking behind them in a constant search for the dreaded waves of Fokkers.

I lay awake for hours, battling with horrible, morbid thoughts of France, as from the floor below, the sound of the night’s Soiree drifted up and into my window. The music was a Beardmore - the loud, exaggerated laughter was machine-gun fire, the champagne bottles being corked were archie bursts. Panic begun to rise in my throat, and I bolted upright. As if the motion had shattered the image, I was left alone with only pitch darkness and the faint sounds of the social happenings below. Wiping my brow, I slumped back down onto my pillow, staring at the ceiling until a strange fatigue swept me away.

[Linked Image]



Last edited by Wulfe; 03/25/19 07:59 PM.
#4467429 - 03/25/19 07:56 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 4,879
RAF_Louvert Offline
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RAF_Louvert  Offline
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Senior Member

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Posts: 4,879
L'Etoile du Nord
.

Wulfe, excellent stuff, as always. The horrors do love to sneak back at night, when one dreams. And a Webley, Graham made an excellent choice. One minor nit to pick, as it is obvious that you clearly are one for correct details: the British Wound Stripe did not exist until July of 1916, (Army Order 204 of 6 July 1916, to be precise).

Fullofit, it's early in our northern climes for morels, but in France it is prime season.

.

#4467430 - 03/25/19 08:01 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 321
Wulfe Offline
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Wulfe  Offline
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Posts: 321
That'll be why the Captain doesn't have any, then...

cheers, Lou! I didn't realise! Edited the last entry accordingly.

Last edited by Wulfe; 03/25/19 08:01 PM.
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