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#4512700 - 03/25/20 11:57 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) ***** [Re: Raine]  
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L'Etoile du Nord
.

25 March 1917
66 Squadron, R.F.C.
Vert Galand, France

It was just past nine in the morning and the first outings of the day were commencing despite the plane and pilot shortages caused by yesterday’s escort mission brouhaha. Major Owen Boyd sat at the desk in his office, a half-finished cup of tea perched near the edge of the desk to his right. In front of him lay a two-page report which had arrived by courier not thirty minutes earlier, the salient bits of which he had just finished reading out loud to the man sitting across from him, his star pilot and one of Britain’s very few VC aces, Captain Randolph Swanson.

"Look Swany, you're a fine pilot, one of the finest really, and a truly decent chap from everything I've seen since your arrival at Netheravon, and now here in the thick of it as well. Your combat experience is a godsend and a lifesaver to our little group." The Major took a sip of the tepid tea before continuing, "It's clear you care about those under your wing and you take your job most seriously. But honestly man, we can't have this."

Captain Swanson, cradling his own cuppa' and resting it on the top knee of his crossed legs, listened respectfully and nodded his head ever so slightly at the Major's remark, not so much in agreement but rather in recognition of what his CO was saying.


The "this" Major Boyd was referring to had occurred the previous day some time after the madness that had been the Captain's morning sortie; a sortie which had ended abruptly for him when his own plane was shot down by the British AA guns located south of Arras. The Tommies there had been so intent on knocking down the numerous Hun scouts that were in a massive furball with the Pups from 66 Squadron and the Fees of 57 Squadron that they gave no quarter whatsoever to their own. From all appearances, if it was in the air and flying, hostile or friendly, it was fair game. After Captain Swanson had managed to get his dead plane onto the ground in one piece, (more or less), near the aerodrome at Boiry St. Martin, he had dashed across to the field where he called up his own camp to let them know his whereabouts and situation, then waited to learn the fate of the rest of his flightmates, most of who were still in the swirling go-round above.

By some miracle or another when it was over the RFC still had all pilots involved alive and well, for the most part. Two men from Swany's flight, Lieutenants Sammy Luke and Jack Collier, had sustained some light injuries, but each was expected to make a full recovery in a week or two. The planes of both men however were total write-offs. Now whether said injuries and equipment losses were the result of the Hun scouts or the British AA gunners was a matter of some debate, but either way Captain Swanson was fit to be tied at the stupidity and carelessness of it all and, after borrowing a car from his temporary hosts at Boiry St. Martin, drove over to the offending gun post to have a word with whoever was in charge.

The “whoever” was a volunteer artillery Captain named Sedgewick Molesworth, a tallish, thin fellow with a pinched face and close-set eyes. Swany found the man in conversation with one of his gunnery sergeants, standing outside the tent that served as the unit's makeshift office. When the conversation was over the angry young flier stepped up and introduced himself, "I'm Captain Swanson, are you in command here?"

"I am. I'm Captain Molesworth - what's this about?" There was a hesitant, unsure tone in the man's voice.

"This is about you shooting down my plane, and likely some of my men's planes as well!" Swany fired back.

"Let's take it inside Captain Swanson, no need to air this in front of the troops."

The two officers stepped into the tent where Molesworth proceeded to stroll across to his field desk and pull a bottle out from beneath it, along with a pair of tin cups.

"Can I interest you in a splash of gin, Captain?" the artillery officer proffered in a tone now much more relaxed as he began to fill one of the cups.

"No tanks, let's just cut right to da chase. Where da hell do you get off plastering our airplanes with shell fire and shrapnel, we already got Archie doing that for us in spades." Swany's northern Minnesotan/Norwegian dialect was coming on strong as his ire rose.

Captain Molesworth seemed amused. "Are you American? You've an odd accent, even for a Yank."

"I am, and what's so damned funny", Swanson snapped back.

"Oh, nothing really, I've just never heard the King's English spoken quite like that before is all", Molesworth responded as he returned the liquor bottle and unneeded second cup to their proper place. He then took a long, self-satisfying drink before continuing, "Now, to this nonsense about us shooting down your plane, you do understand we've been tasked to knock the air Hun out of the sky whenever possible. Bagged two of them not an hour ago, as a matter of fact."

"Yeah?" Swany sneered. "Well my men and I have been tasked with da same ting, but it's godt damdt hard to do our job when you're down here shelling da crap out of us. Did you claim the Sopwiths you shot down as well, ya stupid lump.”

“Temper, old man”, the artillery officer chided, then in a condescending tenor continued, “We were shooting at the Hun, not at you. Perhaps you need to be more mindful of where you’re flying.”

Swany was livid. “Why da hell don't you cease your fire and stay out of our way when you see us up there fighting?"

Captain Molesworth, now with a large toothy grin on his pinched face, downed the remainder of his drink and replied in a smarmy tone, "Oh, sorry old man, but perhaps it's you who should stay out of the way of our shells".

In less time than it takes a thirteen-pound AA round to leave the muzzle of its associate field piece Captain Swanson's fist landed squarely between Captain Molesworth's close-set eyes, sending the man staggering backwards into and over his field desk, and landing him against the tent wall behind. For a moment there was silence, then a muffled cry of pain from the floor as Molesworth spoke through the hand he’d bought up to his face.

"My God man - you - you struck me!" he stammered, blood pouring from his nostrils.

"Guess you should have stayed out of da way of my fist", Swany chuckled as he left the tent.

"I think you've broken my nose you bloody animal!" Molesworth shouted after him.

On his way back to the car Captain Swanson passed the same gunnery sergeant he’d seen earlier. The senior OR, who’d heard the commotion, asked concernedly what was going on.

“I believe your Captain tripped over his big mouth and fell into something, you might want to check on him.” And with that, Swany was gone.


Major Boyd had been quiet for a minute or two, mulling over the situation, while Captain Swanson sat across from him awaiting punishment. The young air ace wasn't particularly nervous, nor was he anxious, he simply knew he'd crossed a line and was prepared for the worst.

The CO tossed the report off to the side, drained the remaining dregs of his tea, and pronounced his verdict. "Here's what's going to happen, Captain. You're going to write a letter of apology to Captain Molesworth who I am quite certain will be made to understand that he should accept said apology. Further, you will be confined to your quarters until your plane has been repaired, a day at least according to the AMs, which should allow you plenty of time to write a most sincere apology, and I do mean sincere. Do I make myself clear, Captain?"

"As glass, Sir."

"Good. And finally, you will surrender a fortnight's salary, a portion of which will be used to purchase a bottle of whatever it is Captain Molesworth drinks..."

"Gin, Sir, he drinks gin", Swany cut in.

"Fine, gin, whatever, don't interrupt", Major Boyd shot back with a glare, "a bottle of gin, which will accompany your letter. The remainder of your surrendered salary will be placed in the squadron mess fund. Do we understand each other Captain?"

"Yes Major, we most certainly do", Swanson replied smartly.

"Excellent, then we can move on from this whole unpleasantness." The Major paused for a moment, then added, "Swany, I understand how you must have felt, and I can about imagine the fellow had it coming, but no more such ungentlemanly outbursts."

"Of course, Major, you have my word", Swany smiled. Truth be told he was tempted to ask, if he surrendered another two weeks pay could he go back and punch the twit again, but he thought better of it. No need to push his luck.

.

#4512765 - 03/25/20 09:25 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Nigel Farnsworth Philby
Sgt, Rfc
1 Rfc Sqn
Flanders
2 unconfirmed
Bell Asylum, Flanders


March 25, 1917.


Off early in bad conditions for Patrol. Darken skies looks like the weather will have us on the ground so will put in for a pass. The skies cleared for awhile in the late day and The C.O. of a fellow Sgn Popped over for Dinner and Map delivery. bit of a party more likely.

Attached Files 600px-AcesHighVickers_(3).jpg
Last edited by carrick58; 03/25/20 09:32 PM.
#4512772 - 03/25/20 10:10 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Lou, that punch definitely was worth the money. I hope Swany will deliver the apology letter and the bottle of booze himself ... by plane ... and drops it on the dolt’s head.
As to Toby and another medal, I hope it’s not for shooting the Halbs. Mulberry feels shame for downing them. They’re so outmatched it’s like shooting puppies.

Wulfe, I smell subterfuge! It sounds like Evan may get in trouble. He could be killed, or worse yet - demoted. Keep that boy safe.

25 March, 1917 10:45
Furnes, Flanders Sector
RNAS-8
SC Tobias Chester Mulberry VC, DSC&Bar, DSO&Bar, L d’H
85 confirmed kills

The balloon and two Halberstadts have been confirmed.
They were waiting at the rendezvous point for the 3 Quirks from RFC-6 to escort them on a bombing run of enemy troop camp near Ghistelles. The two-seaters were missing their rendezvous for some time now. Toby was beginning to think they wouldn’t show up at all, but just then a shape appeared out of the clouds, then another. Finally! Now they can proceed with the mission. He was about to join the formation when he noticed something odd. The wings had black crosses on them. These were not the Quirks they were waiting for. Instead, they stumbled onto a flight of Huns. Toby was on them, but so were they. A big jumble of planes mushed together for a moment and then all the Tripes disappeared leaving Toby to fend for himself with the two Halbs. Perhaps for the better. The two Huns worked well together and Mulberry had a hard time getting on their tails, but eventually their formation fell apart and they were separated. Toby had one in his sights and firing, but this German pilot had more tricks under his sleeve. For unknown reason he began to fly inverted, exposing his belly to Toby’s gun. His aim was fouled by the enemy’s unconventional flight path, but eventually he run out of height and had to twist back to upright orientation. He crashed gently into some trees below. Toby turned back. It was obvious the Quirks were not going to show up.

YouTube Link



"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."
#4512781 - 03/25/20 11:51 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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MFair Offline
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Lou, that was a beauty! I wish Jericho had been around to see that one Pard!

Fullofit, 5 and a balloon! I must protest. At that rate we will be out of machines in a month.

Carrick, a shot from one of my favorite movies.

A report on Gunthers condition coming. He will live.

Last edited by MFair; 03/25/20 11:52 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!
#4512787 - 03/26/20 02:23 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Lou - glad Swany knocked the Artillery Captain one! All he deserves for being so amused at nearly killing one of the Empire's greatest aces! As Fullofit says, money well spent.

Fullofit - Tripehounds against Halberstadt Ds? I almost feel sorry for the hun! ....Almost!


Evan C. Easom
No. 48 Squadron RFC.

Part 7: Reconnaissance Machines


The fields surrounding La Bellevue aerodrome, their edges still touched by the lingering frost of winter past, shone like hastily-bought gold on the morning of March 24th, 1917. Hanging still in the air, catching the sun’s rays and holding them curiously in place, was a dust-sheet of early mist, resembling the great ghost of an ancient body of water. Droplets of dew, collecting on the frost-stiff blades of grass, gleamed like a thousand diamonds, refracting the light which had found its way through the gaps in the lazily-drifting clouds, towering in their innocent whiteness above France. On the aerodrome, the row of Bessonneau hangars rippled gently in the Westerly wind, giving the impression that they were alive, slowly stirring awake with the rising sun.

All in all, it would have made for a beautifully tranquil morning, had it not been for the uproarious commotion that had broken out across the R.F.C camp.

Evan Easom bolted awake to the harsh, indistinguishable staccato of yells echoing across the aerodrome, followed by a dull and incredibly loud WHOMP. Blearily he rubbed the sleep from his eyes, stirring confusedly in his cot. Another WHOMP fell heavy against his sleep-sensitive eardrums, followed by more shouts. As Evan tiredly swung his legs over the side of the bed, slowly sitting upright, he became aware of the sounds of people running back and forth on the aerodrome among the harsh shouts. As he drifted into full wakedness he suddenly realised that something was most definitely off. Just as this thought occurred to him, the door of the Nissen hut flew open, slamming heavily against the inner wall as Ackerman appeared in its frame, a frantic, frenzied look on his face. A third WHOMP sounded, adding further drama to the airman’s arrival. “Easom! Come, quick!” he cried, and immediately Evan’s drowsiness cleared as he bolted upright out of bed, snatching up his trousers and clawing them on, running out bare-chested and barefoot onto the aerodrome.

He was met with a scene of chaos. Every which-way, khaki-clad figures, some only half-dressed like himself, were running to and fro - pilots, observers, tenders, enlisted men, all barking excited commands at one another. Following Ackerman in a sprint onto the centre of the aerodrome, he found a gaggle of aircrew gathered, their necks craned up skywards, all frantically talking among themselves with excited grins. From the nearest Bessonneau, a trio of Aircraft Mechanics clad in blue jumpsuits hastily wheeled one of the Squadron’s Bristol F2s onto the aerodrome and immediately two of the aircrew - Wilkinson and his Observer - sprinted towards the machine. Evan tapped the nearest airman on the shoulder. “What’s going on?” he shouted over the frantic buzz. The Airman pointed up. “Look! Up there! It’s a Hun reconnaissance plane!” Evan followed the pilot’s gesture and squinted his eyes against the glaring white clouds. For a moment he saw nothing, but then - yes! Weaving in lazy S-turns overhead was a little white speck of an aircraft. As Evan’s eyes focused he took in the distant silhouette of the machine - from a pencil-thin fuselage protruded unnaturally long wings, violently curved backwards at the tips into a point. The machine’s tail was similarly strange, sloping drastically back into an exaggerated ‘V’ shape, resembling an arrowhead. Another dull, percussive WHOMP rang out, made louder still without the walls of the Nissen to soften it, and two seconds later a little white puff exploded into existence beside the Hun machine.

Suddenly there was a great roar on the aerodrome, and as Evan snapped his head around to follow the sound he saw Wilkinson’s Bristol kicking up dust and smoke as its engine howled awake. The Mechanics had scarcely cleared out of the way when the machine rocketed forwards at full throttle, screaming down the aerodrome and lifting heavily off, powering Northwards in a climb. As it did so, there were a great many cheers from the pilots. Overhead, the Hun machine had ceased it’s S-turning and had lazily rolled out Eastwards, with Wilkinson’s bus shadowing it and climbing at a dizzying near-stalling angle. More excited chatter erupted among the men as the two machines faded into the morning horizon, and, just as suddenly as Evan had woken, the aerodrome was peaceful again.

The buzz among the men was infectious, and although both Wilkinson’s machine and the German aeroplane had faded from sight, Evan found himself excitedly squinting his eyes towards the East, feverishly searching for a glimpse of either machine. One voice cut loudly through the chatter, and Evan diverted his attention to see Captain Robinson standing on the field, smirking in amusement at his frenzied subordinates. “Alright, alright! The excitement is over now! Go and get your breakfast and your flight assignments, you rowdy lot!”. The pilots exulted again, omitting another round of cheers and schoolboy-like laughter, and the crowd on the aerodrome began to shuffle towards the Mess and the Flight Offices.

In the mess that morning there was a great deal of conversation among the pilots as to the type of Hun machine they had seen. “It’s an Aviatik! All the Hun reconnaissance buses are Aviatiks!” cried Tidmarsh. “Don’t be silly, it’s an Albatros. They make two-seat ones as well, you know,” replied Baker, the flight leader of ‘A’ flight. From the piano stool, Holliday sighed and called out “You’re all wrong. It’s one of the new DFWs. I’ve seen pictures of it in Flight Magazine”. The speculation was cut short by the unexpected arrival of Captain Robinson. The men snapped to attention as he entered. “I’ve just had a telephone call from Headquarters”, the Captain said, barely hiding the anticipation on his face. “All available pilots and observers are to be ready to take off at Ten O’Clock. Number 48 has been ordered to reconnoitre Monchy-le-Preux! Holliday, your bus will carry the camera. The rest of ‘B’ flight will fly close to you and watch out for any Huns. ‘A’ flight will fly higher, and will see off any Huns that come your way. I’ll fly with ‘B’. See you on the field at 10 O’Clock!”.

For the second time that day, the air was charged with an electric buzz as the pilots made ready for the Squadron’s first ‘official’ show, and at 10 O’Clock the sight of all the Squadron’s Bristols, Nine in total, lined up on the aerodrome made Evan’s heart jump. Just as soon as the crews had boarded the machine the Very light went up, and Holliday’s camera-equipped Bristol lurched forwards.

With the deafening roar of nine Falcon engines filling Evan with anticipation, the Flight headed towards Doullens, spiralling up in wide, lazy turns as they climbed to 12,000 feet. As they did, Evan spied a group of F.E.2s sailing past, marvelling at their bizarre, birdcage frames. Above them sat a lone, sleek beige single-seat machine with boxlike wings. Evan didn’t recognise the type, but as evidenced by its constant need to S-turn above the fees, he could see that the hornetlike single-seater was faster than anything he’d yet seen fly. Grinning, he watched the formation as it drifted towards the lines.

[Linked Image]
Collins, is that you?


Having found their altitude, Holliday turned ‘B’ flight towards Arras. Suddenly, as they drew nearer the front, Wickham tapped fervently on Evan’s shoulder, before gesturing out ahead and above of them. Ducking his head slightly to see out in front of the upper wing, Evan spotted the shape of two machines, white as powder, heading their way. Almost as soon as he saw them, the two machines immediately circled Eastwards - revealing their stark black crosses on their fuselage sides as they did. Germans! Evan readied himself for a fight - but quickly came to realise that the two Hun aircraft had turned to run! As one machine banked onto its side, he recognised it as the same type that had overflown La Bellevue that morning. Evan sorely wanted to chase after them, but to his disheartening he realised that Holliday, at the head of the formation, was ignoring the pair.

Continuing on, the Bristols finally sighted through the gaps in the clouds the chaos of No Man’s Land. Reaching the Hun lines, Evan watched tensely as Holliday’s observer leaned sickeningly over the side of his cockpit to work the camera. Every moment he expected to see the little black dots that would mean enemy machines approaching, but despite his tense anticipation no Huns came.

Having returned to the aerodrome, Evan felt thrilled at the day’s flying. The image of the frozen trenches, stretching on for endless miles, played in his mind as he followed the other pilots and observers to the mess. Inside, they found Wilkinson enjoying a spot of lunch with his observer at the dining table. At the sight of him, Evan perked up. “Wilkinson, did you catch that Hun this morning?” he cried out. The testy ‘B’ Flight leader looked up from his meal. “No, we didn’t. But never mind all that...what about you wearing your cap in the mess?”. With embarrassed shock, Evan clawed the cap from his head. “Looks like you owe every man in here a Brandy!” Wilkinson jeered, an altogether evil smirk crossing his face.

Last edited by Wulfe; 03/26/20 08:14 AM.
#4512834 - 03/26/20 12:45 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Wulfe - some excitement first thing in the morning for the boys of 48 Squadron, and a wonderfully descriptive bit of writing as well. Evan best remember to remove that lid next time or he’s going to come up short of coin by the end of the month.

MFair – I was thinking too that Jericho would have appreciated Swany’s response. I miss that character.

Fullofit – it seems Hun HQ have amended their only response to Mulberry shooting down their Halbs: send more, but this time have them fly upside-down. Outstanding show as always. As for a medal, maybe Britain needs to create a new gong just for Toby - The Halberstadt Cross, with a Bronze Rum Bottle attachment to boot.

Carrick – a relaxing day for Nigel, always good to have one of those. And a map delivery, is that what they’re calling it now? How many maps were there, and were they litre maps, pint maps, or fifth maps? Perhaps it was a combination, variety is nice.

.

#4512857 - 03/26/20 03:49 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Upside down Huns?... methinks either he was a show off, or something is... well... off!
I bet if you got into that Halby, you could not make it fly like that... eek2

#4512924 - 03/26/20 07:55 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Fullofit Offline
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MFair, all Toby is doing is cleaning the house. Getting rid of the old planes and making room for fresh ones. When Gunther returns from hospital, he will have a nice new mount to climb into.

Wulfe, I agree. Halbs vs. Tripes, not a fair fight, even upside down.
Excellent recounting of the happenings during the Hun visit over La Bellevue. And Evan will finally have to take the cap off or lose his salary in the squadron’s full glasses.

Lou, that Halberstadt Cross better have an entire bar, not just a bottle.

Trooper, you’ve hit the nail on the head. I couldn’t fly the Halb like that but a hotshot Hun could and did.

26 March, 1917 08:45
Furnes, Flanders Sector
RNAS-8
SC Tobias Chester Mulberry VC, DSC&Bar, DSO&Bar, L d’H
85 confirmed kills

Unfortunately Toby’s upside-down Halberstadt from yesterday was not witnessed by anyone and his claim was denied.
The C.O. explained that transfer to Auchel, which was 33 miles SSW of Furnes, was a chance to recharge. The aerodrome was further from the front which would afford his pilots some rest from constantly being under attack by enemy bombers. Toby looked forward to this quiet area Bromet promised.
The ‘A’ flight made the navigation to the new aerodrome very easy. All Toby had to do was follow them. Not that he couldn’t do it on his own, but he preferred to concentrate his attention on scanning the skies for any “lost” Huns. This task soon lost its appeal and Mulberry instead occupied himself following the landmarks on the map as they flew by them. First, Proven aerodrome they flew above, then Ypres in the distance on his port side, Abeele aerodrome, and the Imperial Forest. When they flew over River Lys, he knew they were getting close. They then overflew Chocques aerodrome with Béthune city appearing on port side. From here he could see Auchel now. As they circled the aerodrome to get into the landing pattern Toby noticed two of the hangars were damaged and still smouldering. Apparently this isn’t far enough for the German bombers to leave them in peace.


"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."
#4512941 - 03/26/20 09:35 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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Fullofit, it looks as if the Hun knew Toby was moving and delivered a housewarming gift. A tad early for him to fully enjoy it, but it's the thought that counts. As for the entire bar, that shows up with the second award.

.

#4512951 - 03/26/20 10:39 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Raine Offline
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It seems like ages since I was last able to fly in the campaign. Collins returns on tomorrow's date, but I think I'll fly the first mission tonight so that I can write it up before the weekend. I don't know about the rest of you fellows but I'm always nervous about the first patrol after a long break.

Fullofit, I continue to be fascinated by your videos. The one you made on 23 March was a classic example of patience – you were up against two sharp pilots from Jasta 18, probably both aces. You carefully stayed high and managed to deal with each in turn enough to degrade their performance, and you didn't get so greedy that you left yourself exposed well you went after a kill. I was particularly impressed by the economical head movements. In a case like that, I have a tendency to look one way and then another and just make myself dizzy without seeing a #%&*$# thing. No wonder that when you come up against Halberstadts you swap them out of the air like so many mosquitoes. First-rate stuff!

Wulfe, your stories of 48 Squadron are wonderful. I know what you're building up to with Billy Leefe Robinson. Your episodes read like a good suspense novel.

Lou, absolutely loved the episode with Captain Molesworth. By any chance, would he be the father of Nigel Molesworth of St Custard's school?

[Linked Image]

I was a massive fan of the Molesworth books as a boy and hadn't thought of them in years. Ronald Searle's illustrations are wonderful, "as any fule kno."

By the way, I received a PM from Seb Toombs. He is a public servant in the UK and is going flat out with the coronavirus issue. He will probably be away for a while and will rejoin when his life returns to something a little more normal. He will be checking in from time to time. We'll all miss you, Seb!

Attached Files Molesworth.png
Last edited by Raine; 03/26/20 10:44 PM.
#4512956 - 03/26/20 11:11 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Raine, if anyone was going to make the Molesworth connection.... Willians' writing coupled with Searle's illustrations - great stuff! It's been close to 50 years since last I read any of the books, I'm thinking it's high time to revisit St. Custard's.

.

#4512961 - 03/26/20 11:54 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Raine Offline
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I knew it, Lou!!!! Only you. Now you have me on the hunt for the books. Like you, it's been 50 years. Chiz!

"Fotherington-Tomas. He is uterly weedy and wet and hav a face like a tomato."

I went to a British system private school for a few years and won a prize in Lower Sixth for -- of all things -- handwriting. Osmiroid fountain pens and Italic script were compulsory (still use a Lamy with an Italic nib although a neuropathy is playing hell with the handwriting). The prize is one I'll never forget -- a book of Ronald Searle cartoons about cats. One was entitled "A Particularly Stupid Cat Trying to Grasp a Simple Fact." Think of it often while reading the news.

#4512964 - 03/27/20 12:24 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 4,879
RAF_Louvert Offline
BOC President; Pilot Extraordinaire; Humble Man
RAF_Louvert  Offline
BOC President; Pilot Extraordinaire; Humble Man
Senior Member

Joined: May 2012
Posts: 4,879
L'Etoile du Nord
.

Great story Raine, I can just imagine your excitement over such a high honour! The only prize I won in high school was a thespian award for serving as stage manager, set manager, and bit-part actor in our production of "Brigadoon", (we were a small school).

As for Ronald Searle's wonderful cartoon cats, I'm afraid the following may now be far too apropos for me, (and possibly a few others of us here).

[Linked Image]

.

#4512966 - 03/27/20 12:53 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 3,086
MFair Offline
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MFair  Offline
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Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 3,086
Wulfe, excellent! A great description of the chaos of an attack

Lou, I miss the old coot also. Of all my DID pilots, he was my favorite. Of course the company was excellent also.

Raine, once I get past 30 missions is when I start getting that quest felling in my stomach when I get into the cockpit.

Offstv Gunther Ganz
Jasta 6
Wassigny Airfield
March 26, 1917

Ganz awoke with a splitting headache. “Ah, Herr Ganz! You are with us.” Ganz heard the voice but his eyes had not focused yet. Finally he made out the shape of the person standing over him. “I am Dr. Gunder. You are a lucky man Herr Ganz.”
Ganz looked around as his vision became clearer. Dr. Gunder continued. “You have a very bad concussion, but you will make a full recovery.
Ganz moved his lips to speak but the words would not come. His head was pounding. Finally he forced out “how long....”
Dr. Gunder replied,”You have been unconscious for a few days. I would think it would be a few more weeks before you are ready to return to your duties. You are lucky you were so close to Cateau. This is a very good hospital. “
Ganz senses were coming back now. “Yes, lucky me!” he said. “Do you have something for this damned headache? It’s killing me.”
“Certainly” the Dr. replied as he turned and spoke to the attending orderly. Ganz’s hand moved up and felt the bandage around his head. The
Dr. continued, “the bullet hit your forehead above the right eye grazing your skull. Lucky for you it did not splinter any bone. Any closer and......well, as I said, you are very luck.”
Ganz closed his eyes again. He was going to need a lot of this thing the Dr. called luck if he was to survive this war.


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!
#4513014 - 03/27/20 12:26 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 4,879
RAF_Louvert Offline
BOC President; Pilot Extraordinaire; Humble Man
RAF_Louvert  Offline
BOC President; Pilot Extraordinaire; Humble Man
Senior Member

Joined: May 2012
Posts: 4,879
L'Etoile du Nord
.

MFair, Gunther's in for a long spell of recovery and reoccurring headaches, I'm afraid. Swany suffered an identical grazing back in July of last year, only his was just above his right ear. Once Ganz is back in form, if the headaches persist, he'll want to drink several cups of strong ginger tea a day and rub a few drops of peppermint oil into his temples regularly. That was the trick that finally took care of it for my man.

.

#4513100 - 03/27/20 08:06 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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Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 3,696
Ajax, ON
Lou, that Gong Fairy is so generous, already thinking of a second award.

Raine, thanks for the kudos. I’m afraid it’s not patience you are seeing in my videos, but my inability to get on enemy’s tail. I have a feeling there will be much more of those drawn out, undecided duels with Albatros aplenty. Let’s not forget that Tripe is head and shoulders above what the Huns can throw at it. My thanks for the accolades, nevertheless.

MFair, it’s a good thing Gunther still has all his limbs. Headache is a minor annoyance compared to just one leg. Hopefully Ganz can cut his convalescence short. You know those doctors - constant pessimists.

No flying for Chesty today. He is still settling in.


"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."
#4513122 - 03/27/20 11:15 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 6,659
carrick58 Offline
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carrick58  Offline
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Posts: 6,659
Nigel Farnsworth Philby
Sgt, Rfc
1 Rfc Sqn
Flanders
2 unconfirmed
Bell Asylum, Flanders


I was right about the maps and the party. The French have started attacking along the line. All flyable a/c will Give cover to the French Battalions if weather permits.

https://giphy.com/gifs/stanley-kubrick-paths-of-glory-YfGjVCR10bLPy/fullscreen

#4513123 - 03/27/20 11:26 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: RAF_Louvert]  
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 3,086
MFair Offline
Senior Member
MFair  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 3,086

Originally Posted by RAF_Louvert
.

MFair, Gunther's in for a long spell of recovery and reoccurring headaches, I'm afraid. Swany suffered an identical grazing back in July of last year, only his was just above his right ear. Once Ganz is back in form, if the headaches persist, he'll want to drink several cups of strong ginger tea a day and rub a few drops of peppermint oil into his temples regularly. That was the trick that finally took care of it for my man.

.


Lou, thanks for the advice. I had forgot about that close call Swany had. It just proves my hypothesis I formed in my reading of Military history. “The difference between a dead warrior and a hero is usually no more than one half inch.”


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!
#4513127 - 03/28/20 12:35 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 6,659
carrick58 Offline
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carrick58  Offline
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Posts: 6,659
Nigel Farnsworth Philby
Sgt, Rfc
1 Rfc Sqn
Flanders
2 unconfirmed
Bell Asylum, Flanders

March 28, 1917.

Infantry Support flight: Orders, A Flight ( 4 a/c) Top Cover, B Flight {5 machines } Ground attack. We mostly played follow the leader in machine gunning Troops. I tried to come in from different directions ,but was a wing man. Used up 3 drums before a Jam up. 2 a/c had small damage,but it was a good show.

Attached Files CFS3 2020-03-27 16-49-53-34.jpgCFS3 2020-03-27 16-50-21-98.jpgCFS3 2020-03-27 16-52-46-02.jpgCFS3 2020-03-27 16-53-01-96.jpg
#4513130 - 03/28/20 12:47 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 6,659
carrick58 Offline
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carrick58  Offline
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Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 6,659
Nigel Farnsworth Philby
Sgt, Rfc
1 Rfc Sqn
Flanders
2 unconfirmed
Bell Asylum, Flanders
2nd Flight

Refuel Rearm and off to to keep Snoopers away . B flight encountered a flight of 2 seat machines 3 of them ( New Tatical Formation ? } I was line up and firing when 2 of my mates pulled in front. Flight Commander Band Knocked down a machine and pulled away. I turmed doing a 180 for a pass only to see Sgt Berry get hit flamed and hit the ground spreading about like Jam. The other Hun made the clouds and were gone.

Attached Files CFS3 2020-03-27 16-58-57-83.jpgCFS3 2020-03-27 17-16-24-48.jpgCFS3 2020-03-27 17-17-30-01.jpgCFS3 2020-03-27 17-19-56-67.jpg
Last edited by carrick58; 03/28/20 12:50 AM.
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