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#4527082 - 06/24/20 02:57 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) ***** [Re: Raine]  
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Shelby Horace Longstreet
Sgt
Esc 84 of CG13
Pierrefonds, Marne
Jun 23 1917.



Line Patrol. No contact. up with 5 a/c at 13000ft sipping brandy to keep warm.

Afternoon: Down at the East end of sector looking for 2 seats. Found one lower at 9000 ft a DFW ? As the flight leaders wingman , I was a chained dog and had to watch as he close for the Kill.

Attached Files CFS3 2020-06-23 19-25-13-24.jpgCFS3 2020-06-23 19-38-00-02.jpgCFS3 2020-06-23 19-39-36-61.jpg
#4527139 - 06/24/20 11:58 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Raine, excellent! Glad to see your pilot back home.


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!
#4527170 - 06/24/20 01:57 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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L'Etoile du Nord
.

MFair - Glad you are liking my new pilot's story so far. When will we be hearing from Ainslie again? We want to know who the shooter is.

Carrick - Shelby is drinking on the job? What would the French brass hats say about that I wonder.

Raine - Great catch-up on your man Vogel. Nice to see he has recovered and is back in camp. Hopefully he can avoid future injuries. I agree with Fullofit about how much some of those places haven't changed over the last century, it really is quite amazing.
And glad to know you're also enjoying 2nd Lt. Abbott's saga.

Fullofit - Another wonderful old photo! I hope Ziggy and his mates enjoy their new digs, once things dry out. It's the same soggy story right now at La Bellevue as well. As to not wanting to see "that" - yeah, I agree.

.

21 June 1917
11 Squadron R.F.C.
La Bellevue, France

Two days of pouring rain and intermittent high winds had curtailed all flying at La Bellevue and the surrounding region. Along with the wind and rain, and much to 2nd Lt. Frederick Abbott's delight, came the final allotment of Bristol Fighters. His new mount had arrived! He was giddy upon receiving the news from Major MacLean.

"Abbott, I've assigned you A7291. Seeing as how 'F' was still available as an ID letter I've already instructed the AMs to paint that on your bus. If you like, you may choose a color for your wheel spats to make the girl more your own as well, but nothing gaudy."

"Oh that is spiffing, Major, absolutely spiffing!" Frederick remarked, grinning from ear to ear. "Blue I think for her spats - always been partial to blue."

"Blue will be fine", the Major replied with a smile. When presented with Abbott's youthful enthusiasm and oddly pleasant face one couldn't help but smile.

"May I be excused to go and see her, Sir?"

"Yes, you may. Just remember Abbott, take good care of her, she cost the Crown a pretty penny and then some."

Major MacLean dismissed his newest pilot, who then proceeded to race from the office out into the pouring rain, across the field and towards the hangars. In his excitement the young man's feet got ahead of him, and between that and the sopping wet grass and mud he slipped and fell forward, his momentum carrying him along a good ten feet before he slid to an inglorious halt. But it did not faze him in the least. Jumping back up and screeding off the mud from his front-side with his hands, he continued on to his waiting prize. The Ack Emmas were doing their best not to laugh out loud as Frederick entered the shop, stopping directly in front of his shining new mount. Realizing they must have seen his mishap, he piped up.

"No worries lads, feel free to laugh, I must be a sight - don't care, too excited - I mean, just LOOK at her!"

An AM handed the young subaltern a clean rag and suggested he step back outside under the eaves and make use of the rain water that was pouring off.

"Oh, very smart of you. Quite right, wouldn't want to climb up in her with all this muck."

A brief makeshift rinse later and Frederick was back in front of the Bristol, dripping wet, but clean. He stood there for the longest time, simply admiring the lines of the machine. It was a thing of beauty - and business - and it was his. As he continued to drip dry he made his way slowly around the bus, inspecting and taking note of every little detail. When he came to the starboard side one of the AMs was there finished up the last of the ID letters, having already applied the 'F' to the top wing and port side.

"Top hole work, really first rate", Frederick praised, then added, "When you're done there I'd like you to take a bit of blue paint to the wheel spats, if you would."

"My pleasure Sir, take care of that for you in a jif I will", the fellow replied with a nod.

Frederick's clothes and boots were still fairly damp when he at last climbed up into the front office for a get-acquainted. He eased himself down into the seat and settled in with a squish. Lovely. A nice clean layout of the instruments and controls - roomy, but not overly so. A comfortable reach to the stick and rudder bar. Good visibility, excellent really. And best of all, there, squarely in front of him just below the windscreen, a forward-facing Vickers! Between that and the Lewis in the back for his G/O this mount was going to be something to reckon with. The young airman couldn't wait to get it into battle. But until the rain and wind ceased, wait was what he would have to do.


(to be continued)

.

#4527180 - 06/24/20 02:18 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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God, but I'm enjoying Freddie! He's really well-drawn, Lou. There is something of a George MacDonald Fraser touch to the stories. Freddie is something of a prim and proper, public school version of McAuslan, if such a thing is possible.

#4527217 - 06/24/20 04:08 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, Abbot will do well in his new mount. Top notch stuff!

2nd Lt. Ainslie Harris
Bruay
June 22, 1917

Harris had been in his hut since the meeting with the a Major. He was beginning to wonder how he had gotten himself in such a mess as this. “Well you wanted adventure hoss and by god you got it!” He said aloud. Corporal Morris poked his head in. “Pardon Sir, but I am to escort you to the Major immediately Sir.” Harris got up and stated “where’s your handcuffs Corporal?” Morris looked puzzled “Sir?” He asked. Harris laughed, “I’m just hackin’ on ya. Let’s get this over with.”

When Harris entered the Majors office, Keen and Crole were seated against the wall. Harris stopped and gave a hard look at Crole. “So your the lowdown snake” he thought to himself. He presented himself to the Major and saluted But did not speak. The Major straightened in his chair, took a pull on his pipe and sat it down. “At ease Lieutenant, have a seat” he said. When Harris was seated the Major leaned forward and spoke. “It seems you were correct Lieutenant. The mechanics at Etrun have confirmed you didn’t fire a shot. So, we will consider this matter closed. Do you have anything to say Lt. Crole.” Crole stood up. “Yes Sir. My apologies to Lieutenant Harris. Obviously I was mistaken Sir”. The Major looked at Crole. “Very well.” Then he looked back to Harris. “You May continue your duties Lieutenant. You are all dismissed.” Harris started to speak but decided against it. He arose and walked out the door. Once outside, Crole called to him and Harris whipped around in an instant which made Crole and Keen stop in their tracks. Harris walked up to Lt. Crole, putting his nose inches from his face. “ I ain’t got nothing to say to you Lieutenant and I would strongly advise you to keep your d#@n pie hole shut!” At that, Harris walked back to his quarters. Crole looked at Keen. “I just wanted to apologize!” Keen looked at Harris as he walked away and back at Crole. “I have some advice for you. Before you make such an accusation again, you had better be sure of it. And, I would strongly advise you to tread carefully around that man for a while. He is not the sort you want to cross.”

June 24, 1917
B Flight was patrolling the lines around Menen. A bit cloudy but favourable. As they made their turn for the second round along the lines Barlow pointed down and signalled the attack. As Harris went into a dive he saw the 7 V Strutters in perfect formation. There was the initial pandemonium and then everyone broke into single duels. Harris had latched on to the tail of one. Harris could tell this fellow was game and was having a hard time drawing a bead on him. He kept firing fleeting short bursts. He could tell he was getting hits but nothing that would put him down. The pair was going lower and lower. Finally the Hun started smoking as Harris gave one long burst but they were very low and the German trenches were just ahead so he reversed and climbed away. He looked back and saw the Albatros cross his lines still smoking “Almost” he thought.

As B Flight landed back at Bruay, Barlow met Harris as he jumped from his Nieuport. “Fine show mate!” Barlow said. Harris replied,” Yep, I almost got the bas#@rd”. Barlow looked at Harris wide eyed “Almost! You didn’t see him go down?” Harris removed his goggles and flight cap wiping his face. “Missed that part. Last I saw of him he was crossing the lines with his tail tucked.” Barlow slapped him on the shoulder, “well Ol’ boy you can chalk up another! Just as he crossed he went down in a heap near their trenches.” Harris said “well good for him!” He had 9 confirmed now.


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!
#4527274 - 06/24/20 11:48 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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AceMedic88 Offline
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Wonderful stories everyone. I have finally decided to join this campaign and present to you The Honourable Reginald Capell. His backstory is a bit of historical fiction, so let's all have fun with it.

Preface: Here I am
I write this to act as an autobiography or as a source of amusement to any that read this if I am to die young

[Linked Image]
Flight Sub-Lieutenant Reginald Capell

My full name is Reginald Archibald de Vere Capell, born 24 January 1895 in Cassiobury House near Watford, Hertfordshire, the second son of George Devereux de Vere Capell, 7th Earl of Essex. My life growing up isn't much to write about: I caused mischief where I could, as a young boy loitering in the kitchens and gardens of the estate. My elder brother's footman, Julius, took me under his wing as to not cause too much trouble for my parents. When not being corrected on how to sit properly, eat properly, talk properly, dress properly, Julius always found a book or two for me to read and occupy my time. Thanks to him, my collection of Blake, Wordsworth, Coleridge, Lord Byron all found their ways into my life. My focus was always to please me father and mother, and while not trying to compete with my elder brother or other siblings, I did feel a higher calling in pursuing the world of literature over the dinners, parades, and constant entertaining my life was expected to entail.

[Linked Image]
My home, Cassiobury House

What is there to really say in a preamble to this new adventure I've undertaken? I attended Eton, found myself a natural at sport. I privately wrote when I could, poetry, reviews, stories of worlds I had heard of but hadn't visited. Life was as expected. That was until 1914, the summer before I was expected to attend Oxford, when the call came to fight. My elder brother, Algernon, joined father's unit, the Hertfordshire Yeomanry. Father did not particularly wish for both son's to join, but I didn't wait. I had my eyes set on naval service, finding my way through the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. I was commissioned and found myself doing my part...in random offices and on land. The big break came in 1916, and the battle now known as the Battle of Jutland. While serving on the HMS Engadine, a seaplane carrier that was part of the Grand Fleet, I became exposed to the world of aviation. I had been aware of the Royal Naval Air Service, but never had seen it up close until then. Upon return to Blighty, I requested a transfer to the RNAS, and my commanding officer took exception to my enthusiasm, hoping I would return to him to fly. My training began at Redcar in Yorkshire and was finished off at Chingford in Essex, where I flew Sopwith Strutters and Pups. There my secondment as a Flight Sub-lieutenant was confirmed. I was told I was drafted with No. 9 Naval Squadron.

I returned home in late May of 1917 to collect some personal items, mostly books, to take over to France. Grabbing books, I bid farewell to my father and mother, a moment almost ruined as a copy of William Butler Yeats' Reveries Over Childhood and Youth fell from my pocket and was promptly corrected as to how I should feel about a man from "that country." Hand shakes, kisses on the cheek, I bid farewell to my family and began my journey to France.


I got fired as the door man at a sperm bank.
Apparently it's in poor taste to tell leaving customers "Thanks for coming."

Former U.S. Army Medic - SGT.
#4527275 - 06/25/20 12:25 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Welcome aboard.

#4527276 - 06/25/20 12:26 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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MFair Offline
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Good to see someone else join the fun Ace. I wish young Capell a long career.


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!
#4527278 - 06/25/20 12:32 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Shelby Horace Longstreet
Sgt
Esc 84 of CG13
Pierrefonds, Marne
Jun 24 1917.

Morning AF attack: Didn't go to well. The Esc assigned & a/c but 2 had motor troubles so the 5 of us put holes in the Tents

Afternoon a bit better Offensive Patrol : Our 5 Spads ran into 6 V struts most just rolled away ,but some were firing. I shot at 2 e/a Hits ? End of flight mt Esc mates claimed 1 e/a, but we had 2 damaged.

Attached Files CFS3 2020-06-24 16-38-41-44.jpgCFS3 2020-06-24 17-03-06-51.jpgCFS3 2020-06-24 17-05-44-92.jpgCFS3 2020-06-24 17-06-09-11.jpg
#4527295 - 06/25/20 02:17 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Ajax, ON
MFair, the Viking women are all easy on the eyes. Lagertha and Aslaug especially. I wouldn’t mind getting plundered by either one of them.
Now, to Harris then. So we finally know who the snake is. I have a feeling Crole’s nose is about to meet Ainslie’s fist soon. The man deserves it. Congrats on another kill. Good thing Barlow witnessed the whole thing.

Raine, Jakob Wolff was actually 48 (born on 21 March 1869).
Congrats on a new shiny toy. (Ziggy is still waiting for his) Too bad Hans can’t take it up for a quick spin to try it out. At least he has plenty of time to paint it exactly the way he wants it. He will need all the help he can get against those English crates.

Carrick, is Lou complaining that Shelby is drinking too much or not enough on the job? winkngrin

Lou, I have a feeling Jasta 17 will find soon enough that Ghistelles, being located so close to the Front, will get its share of unwanted visitors. They will definitely not get too comfortable.
Speaking of which, our lovable Abbott is definitely getting comfortable in his Brisfit’s office. Congrats on the new kite. Now that he has the proper tool, our Frederick is sure to make minced meat out of any air Hun crossing his path. Hope it’s not poor Ziggy.

AceMedic, welcome to our little campaign! Finally a pilot with a silver spoon in his mouth. I am very curious how young Reginald will fare in RNAS. Don’t keep us in suspense too long as to which outfit he’d been assigned to and what machine he’ll be flying. Good luck to our latest pilot. The skies are definitely getting more unfriendly to my pilot. I’m sure Raine is thinking the same thing.


"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."
#4527337 - 06/25/20 12:35 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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L'Etoile du Nord
.

AceMedic88 - Welcome aboard, wonderful to have you with us! We expect great things from The Honourable Reginald Capell.

MFair - Ainslie did a much netter job of keeping his temper in check than I imagined he would, Crole got lucky. Congratulations on number 9!

Carrick - Imagine that, engine troubles with the Spads. Those Hissos are far too temperamental.

Fullofit - Ghistelles is uncomfortably close to the lines, I fear you may be right about those unwanted visitors. I suggest more AA guns and a taller obs tower.

Raine - I believe you're dead on about Abbott being the public school version of McAuslan. biggrin

.

22 June 1917
11 Squadron R.F.C.
La Bellevue, France

The spell of dud weather did not taper off until late in the afternoon, and even then spritzes of rain continued intermittently. Between these however 2nd Lt. Frederick Abbott and his G/O Lt. Thomas Yale had managed a brief test flight of their new mount, with the Bristol Fighter quickly proving it was a pure joy to fly. Despite its size it handled far more like a scout plane than a B/R bus. Frederick found he could roll and loop with ease as the V-12 Rolls Royce Falcon engine propelled the machine effortlessly through any maneuver and with power to spare. It gained altitude quickly, nearly 900 feet a minute; and you could dive with confidence even at full throttle. It had a mystical feel about it, seeming light and spritely yet rock-solid steady all at once. By the time the blue-spatted wheels of A7291 settled back on the field at La Bellevue young Frederick was in love.

"By Jove she is wonderful, isn't she Thomas! I mean toppers! Can't wait to take her to the ball!" Abbott was babbling as he climbed out from the front cockpit, his face beaming.

"She's a pip Freddy, no doubt about it", Yale agreed with a smile, then added, "I'm going to see about getting that second Lewis fitted in my office, Major already approved it, and the extra bit of weight isn't going to slow this beast down."

"She's not a beast Thomas", Frederick reprimanded as he ran his hand gently along the fuselage, "she's a beauty!"

"She can be both you know", Yale laughed as the two men walked off together towards the armament shed.


[Linked Image]


(to be continued)

.

#4527347 - 06/25/20 01:06 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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AceMedic88 Offline
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Thank you for the welcome, chaps. Unfortunately, real-life managed to limit me to just Reggie's introduction. I hope to have his first two days in France posted by this evening.

Great stories gents.


I got fired as the door man at a sperm bank.
Apparently it's in poor taste to tell leaving customers "Thanks for coming."

Former U.S. Army Medic - SGT.
#4527390 - 06/25/20 04:20 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, glad your liking the new kite. But then what’s not to like about the Bristol.
Carrick, Longstreet has been a busy man.

Lt. Ainslie Harris
Bruay
June 25th, 1917

The sun was barely up as Harris readied himself to lead B Flight on a intercept mission near Menen. He was totally surprised to be promoted so soon. Major Tinley had told him he deserved it and maybe it would take the sting out of the incident of a few days ago. “Maybe the old man is warming up to me” he had chuckled to himself.

East of Bethune still climbing for altitude Harris spied 2 DFW’s coming out of the clouds above and ahead of them. He led his flight behind and below. He slowly eased the Nieuport upwards and as soon as he was level with it he fired as the gunner tried to get a bead on him. It was too late. The gunner and then the pilot fell forward and the big machine nosed over in a spin. The other Hun broke right with 2 Nieuports on his tail firing. “Not bad for a start” Harris thought. He circled and “McScotch” joined him in a few minutes. Circling a while more the two headed to the intercept point. Hull joined them south of Menen and he saw A Flight above. As they reached the patrol area Harris scanned the skies and saw 7 Albatros diving from the north. The 2 flights of Nieuports pulled up to meet them. Harris felt bullets hit his machine but everything was ok and he immediately found himself in a circling fight with one. On the third circle another joined in. Then he saw an Albatros with an all red fuselage join in. Harris was aware this could be the up and coming Hun Ace everyone was talking about but was still as calm as could be. Soon he was able to turn in on them and got a burst in on Mr. Red who immediately dropped out of the fight. Each time he faced East in the turn he could see the others in his flight in there own duels. Obviously another flight of Albatros had joined in. “This is a real roundup!” Harris kept pulling in on the 2 circling Albatros and to his amazement the undercarriage of one struck the upper wing of his partner sending him earthward in a spin. The other was temporarily distracted and Harris took the opportunity to head west. He let his tense muscles relax. Looking back, the Albatros had recovered and was giving chase. Harris tensed again. “D@#n he’s a persistent cuss!” Nearing Armentieres Harris decided his adversary was not giving up and enough was enough. He pulled up and over making a head on pass with the Albatros who immediately tried to disengage and head home. “You done bit off a little more than you can chew hoss!” Harris thought as he dove on to the tail of his fleeing enemy. He let out a long burst and the Albatros nosed over crashed in a field. As Harris set his sights for home he waved at the observer in the ballon near him. The observer gave a hearty wave back.

Harris set the Nieuport gently down at Bruay. When it came to a stop he felt the tension release in his muscles and he let out a long sigh. “What a day!”

The afternoon show was uneventful. Since his whole flight had seen his DFW go down, that victory confirmation was a formality. The balloon observer had confirmed the Albatros. He now had 11.

Note: in all my years of WOFF, I’ve never had 7 straight confirmed. Now I have jinxed myself!


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!
#4527436 - 06/25/20 06:56 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: RAF_Louvert]  
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Shredward Offline
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Lake Louise, AB Canada
Originally Posted by RAF_Louvert
.
.

22 June 1917
11 Squadron R.F.C.
La Bellevue, France

By the time the blue-spatted wheels of A7291 settled back on the field at La Bellevue young Frederick was in love.

[Linked Image]


(to be continued)

.


I saw what you did there !

Cheers,
shredward


We will remember them.
#4527463 - 06/25/20 08:28 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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epower Offline
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MFair - Badgering the witness, or in this case the lying squaddie. What's up with Crole? Double digits now. Well done. Beware the Gong Fairy, who won't be far away if the Badger continues wreaking havoc. Concur about Siggy on Vikings. 7 straight! That's gotta be some kind of record.

Lou - That's a flash bus young Freddy's driving. I always saw the George Macdonald Fraser books but never picked up any of them so I'm out in the cold as to the McAuslan allusions. More research to be done I guess. I'll echo Raine as to how much I'm enjoying the Freddy character. He reminds me in some ways of a couple kids I knew.

Carrick - When does Shelby slip his chain and go chasing, I wonder? Cool screens, especially that strafing run on the hapless enlisted men's tents. Shelby got a mean streak.

Fullofit - Viking women?! Where? Katheryn Winnick has always been a favorite.
The Ghistelles venue looks a tad desolate but I've no doubt Ziggy will make the best of it. Nice perk having nearly unlimited access to cigars. Shame about the whole open cockpit deal else Ziggy could install an Adolph Galland-syle Cigar holder.

Raine - Hans-Dieter is back at last and with a new mount to boot. Oliver will need to be extra careful of those magpies when he catches up in time. You painted a fascinating if dispiritng picture of 1917 Berlin. Will Werner ever appear as a "Special Guest Star" as on those classic Quinn Martin Production shows from the 1970s?

AceMedic88 - Welcome to our obsession. Marvelous introduction of young Reginald. You're bringing a full-on Downtown Abbey component to DID.
_________________________________________________

"This is your Captain speaking, Please keep your personal items and body parts in the vehicle at all times. We'll be moving quickly."



22 May 1917
54 Squadron RFC
Flez, France

0645 hrs. Line patrol Vimy ridge to Bullecourt. Perfect clear morning. Gorgeous weather.
I was primed for a scrap but we saw not a single e/a.

1545 hrs. Attack the aerodrome at Aniche, SE of Douai. The Baron’s neighborhood. 20 miles over. Deeper than I’d ever gone into Hunland. Pixley led Grevelink, Charley and Hyde. I flew #2.

Just over the lines, contact port side. Magpies!!

[Linked Image]

Doubled up with Reg Charley. I landed a solid burst on my first pass and Herr Magpie went low. Reg followed right after and finished him clean.

We crossed back over the lines. Some Hun machine gunner found the range and shot the Pup up but good. Controls mushy, surfaces flapping. Difficult to keep her level. Landed at Lechelle for repairs then returned to Flez.

A letter from Eliza. She’s off to the base hospital at Rouen for several days. Hopefully just a few. I must see her again before I lose the use of my reason entirely. Before Corbie, her image would merely rampage through my idle moments, like some chevauchée of the mind, but now the thought of her is more an army of occupation. Thank goodness for the bag. Anything to quiet my mind, flame off this agitation and drive me into an exhausted sleep. Some of the fellows are talking about getting a football team organized. English football unfortunately for me but maybe I can be the goalkeeper.



23 May 1917
54 Squadron RFC
Flez, France

The very act of writing in this diary is onerous. I used to enjoy creating the flow of a narrative but now I can barely jot down the events of the day before distraction overwhelms me.

0615 hrs. Another go at Aniche Aerodrome since we were side-tracked by Magpie’s yesterday. I led Cole, Grevelink and Mac. We shot the place up, but nothing caught fire.

[Linked Image]

1450 hrs. Escort 3 R.E.8s from No. 34 Squadron. They would bomb Monchy le Preaux. Strugnell leading with Charley, Foster and Mac. Found the Harry Tates south of the Somme. Magpies in again! Only 1 Harry Tate left with us. Fate of the other two unknown.

[Linked Image]
Covering Strugnell

[Linked Image]
Strugnell applying the finish

Wing confirmed the Balloon. 11 now.


24 May 1917
54 Squadron RFC
Flez, France

0550 hrs. Line Patrol Havrincourt Wood to the Peronne-Cambrai road. Pixley leading with Hill and Ackers. Pixley suddenly veered off to the NE. Two-seater! Remembering Stewart’s method of high attack, I gave it a try and got shredded. 3 passes. Many bullet holes in my canvas. The observer didn’t have much problem aiming his gun upwards in the slipstream this day.

[Linked Image]

Maybe I got too flat and behind. I need to have a chat with Stewpot about this. Look at all these bloody holes!
Hill followed in and knocked it down. He was badly hit also and ran low over the lines. I covered high.

1515 hrs. Patrol of our lines from Havrincourt wood – then 12 miles down the lines. A long stretch of the front today. Pixley with Ackers, Hudson and Foster. I flew #2. On the way we overflew a low gaggle of 7-8 Albs over the source of the Somme.

[Linked Image]

Shot from range at an Albatros and must have hit the pilot. He went right over and straight into the ground.

[Linked Image]

I latched onto another and chased him round. He was slower, probably damaged, so I closed quickly and landed 20-30 rounds to the cockpit and forward. He started smoking.

[Linked Image]
“He fell thunderously and his armor clattered upon him.”

My controls felt a bit stretched. I must have overdone it on the initial dive. Turned south toward Flez.

[Linked Image]
Three little maids from school, these are not

The three Albs were far away but closing fast. I put the nose down and fled toward Longavesnes aerodrome. An unforgiving minute. On they came and for a moment I thought they might catch me. They would have too if the battery hadn’t given them pause. The 3 Albatri were almost in firing range when they broke off the chase and headed east.

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]
A ghastly sight as I approached the field. Poor devils.

Wing confirmed my first Albatros but awarded the second to the Longavesnes AA battery Ridiculous, but there it was. I couldn’t begrudge them their reward since it was their Archie that drove off the 3 Albatri. One kill each and we all have something to celebrate. 12 now.


25 May 1917
54 Squadron RFC
Flez, France

0645 hrs. Line patrol from Vimy Ridge to Lens. I led Mac, Nobby, Charley and Cole. Flying just under the cloud layer at 5300 ft. In retrospect, this may have been an error.

[Linked Image]
The ripping canvas sound of twin Spandaus was our first warning of the enemy.

He was alone. What madness. The Hun dove and we followed.

[Linked Image]

[Linked Image]
I landed a good burst and the Hun exploded!

A horrific sight. Parts of the aeroplane all over the sky and the burning fuselage tumbling to earth.

The afternoon show was an uneventful escort of RFC-9 Harry Tates. I led Cole, Charley and Foster. Filthy weather. Freezing rain and high winds. Almost lost it on landing when a sudden squall hit just as I was touching down. No enemy sighted. A-Flight had the action with two kills.

My Albatros from the morning confirmed. Lucky number 13.

Sutton had quite the day with C-Flight. His combat report was a real page turner.




Attached Files Sutton combat report.png
Last edited by epower; 06/25/20 09:26 PM.
#4527489 - 06/26/20 12:38 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
EPower, Eliza has her claws in deep. Don’t get too distracted! Congratulations on the victories.

Lt. Ainslie’s “Badger” Harris
Bruay
June 26, 1917

Harris led another intercept southeast of Lens. A and B flight were circling the patrol area. A Flight was 1000’ below and ahead. Harris saw the V Strutters come out of a cloud and dive on A Flight. He signalled the attack and dove picking one out chasing a Nieuport from A Flight. As he turned to get on his tail bullets smashed into his machine and tracers whizzed by his head. The Huns had set the perfect ambush and Harris had fallen for it. He pulled up hard and was instantly fighting with two Albatros with red fuselages. One had his elevator painted white. It crossed his mind as amusing that he noticed it while in a life and death struggle. Harris got a burst in on one of his adversaries and he broke off but it had cost Harris. The other was able to get in a burst of his own which rattled his Nieuport. His controls were sloppy and he dove west.

A and B Flight came back to Bruay in singles and pairs. Keen asked McScotch if he had seen Badger after the scrap. “Last I saw of him he was diving like the devil with that red machine latched on his tail.” Keen made his way to debrief. He knew it could happen to anyone at anytime but somehow he found it hard to believe that the American might not be coming back.”

To be continued.


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!
#4527504 - 06/26/20 01:49 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 2,105
Raine Offline
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Raine  Offline
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Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 2,105
New Brunswick, Canada
Lou, A Bristol for Freddie! How topping! Now for some conkers with the Hun, what?

MFair, that "own goal" on a Nieuport was an odd thing. Happy to see Harris out of the Major's sights for the moment. And what a tear that Harris is on! Seven confirmed in a row, and a well-deserved promotion. Great stories, capped with an uncomfortable cliff-hanger...

AceMedic, it's terrific to have you on board. I wish I had a British pilot right now so Reggie could invite him home for tea when on leave. That's quite a bungalow he has!

epower, it seems that Oliver is attracting more than his fair share of Huns this week. Eliza would not be happy. Remember that it's a long war and discretion...well, you know the rest.

Carrick, the SPAD is a bit of a truck, but it is the best survival machine about these days.



Gott strafe England! Memoirs of Fw Werner Edmund Wollenberg

Chapter 4


[Linked Image]
Visitors' Day at Melle-Gontrode

Stark and I had a marvellous time in Ghent. Over the last two and a half years it has become a German city – even the cafés bore German names. Our hotel was small and tidy, and the restaurants that catered to German troops served good food, albeit in small portions. But there was good beer, picture shows, music halls, and wonderful sights to see. We climbed to the top of the cathedral and could see for miles about. Stark is well-read and told me about the famous altar-painting in the cathedral. We were disappointed to learn that it disappeared around the time our soldiers entered the city. The Belgians say we stole it and we say they took it away and hid it. Such is war.

Hauptmann Brandenburg, we learned on our return to Gontrode, received the Pour le Mérite directly from the Kaiser for our attack on London. We planned a small celebration for his return on 19 June. Tragedy intervened. As he began his return flight his DFW, piloted by Leutnant von Trotha, suffered an engine failure and crashed. Von Trotha was killed instantly and Brandenburg has been crippled in the crash. We are to have a new commander, Hauptmann Kleine, but he will not arrive for several more days.

Much of our time is spent in repetitive training and mindless busywork. On 20 June we held a visitors’ day for staff of 4th Army Headquarters. On 21 June we had a navigation exercise for the NCO pilots. To spice things up, on one leg of our journey we crossed the lines over to Nieuport and dropped bombs on the place. We saw no Englishman. I am beginning to wonder if the English air service has gone home. On 24 June, Leutnant Herzberg led six machines including mine all the way to Boulogne to bomb warehouses and factories around the city. Again, if the English were up in the air we did not see them. There is no talk yet of going back to England. Although I would not say it to the others, I doubt that the giant turnip wagons we fly would have much chance against enemy frontline scouts. If we continue to fly against targets in France just behind the lines we will inevitably come up against such opposition. At least when we fly against England we can catch them by surprise. Meanwhile life has been reduced to lectures, physical exercise, and cleaning. I have spoken with the adjutant about my frustration with this idleness and requested a transfer to a hunting squadron if that is possible. He says he will see what he can do and I suspect he has already forgotten about it.

We will see what the new commander brings.

Attached Files Training.jpg
#4527509 - 06/26/20 02:18 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
I agree, it already save my bacon.

#4527512 - 06/26/20 02:28 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
Shelby Horace Longstreet
Sgt
Esc 84 of CG13
Pierrefonds, Marne
Jun 25 1917.


2 patrols today. Defensive Patrol. The Esc could only put up 6 out of 12 a/c. No Contact

Afternoon: Offensive Patrol. 2 flights of 4 a/c. Ran into 6 Boche machines by Soiessons. Claimed 2 e/a shot down, losses 3 damaged. I latched on to one doing rolls and turns down to the deck fired off 138 rds in strings of 10-29 rds. He started to wobble a lot then flew level so I put 20 more in him. The a/c rolled and smacked the ground hard. Filed a claim

Attached Files CFS3 2020-06-25 18-51-18-44.jpgCFS3 2020-06-25 18-51-55-78.jpgCFS3 2020-06-25 18-54-03-64.jpgCFS3 2020-06-25 19-01-15-75.jpg
Last edited by carrick58; 06/26/20 02:30 AM.
#4527594 - 06/26/20 06:32 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 737
epower Offline
Artless Aide-de-camp
epower  Offline
Artless Aide-de-camp
Member

Joined: May 2012
Posts: 737
Carrick - Well done! The Spad seems to agree with Shelby.

Raine - Ghent seems like a fun town, despite the disappointing absence of the altarpiece. Good thinking getting Werner out of the Turnip Wagon. You might yet be juggling two flieger. I like the picture very much. Oliver is very much a Hun magnet these days. The 3 little maids incident was very scary. An uneventful patrol would come as a welcome relief on some level.

MFair - Badger missing?! Cliffhanger?! I don't like the sound of this at all.



26 May 1917

54 Squadron RFC
Flez, France

0445 hrs. Early morning show was a Defensive patrol from Boiry St. Martin aerodrome to the Bois de Robermont. I led Cole, Ackers, Charley and Hyde. The rain was warmer this morning but visibility was minimal. I took us lower hoping to get out of the clouds and see something. A-Flight came down as well but it wasn’t much better at 5000 ft. South of Bapaume, Ackers dropped out with a dud engine. No e/a sighted.

Afternoon show at 1330 hrs was a balloon hunt east of Tergnier. Pixley led, I flew #2. Ackers, Charley and Nobby rounded out B-Flight. We never made it to the balloon.

[Linked Image]

Just west of Ham…Magpies!!. Our old adversaries from Jasta 27. One caught me on the bounce and shot the Pup through, but he didn’t hit anything vital. A6215 answered the helm as nimbly as ever. A-Flight came storming down and Foster jumped on the Magpie who’d shot me. The Hun dove and Foster followed. I went up and dragged two Albs into a spiral climb. One lost interest and chased after another Pup. I dove on the other.

[Linked Image]
His Albatros had a great ‘A’ on the fuselage.

[Linked Image]
I watched the bullet stream arc onto his cockpit.

[Linked Image]
“and he fell as a tower falls in the strong encounter.”

Both flights were scattered all over the landscape. I found Charley and we searched for the others to no avail. We returned to Flez. Pixley and Ackers were badly damaged, and both made emergency landings. They were safe at least.

I was back early so after making my report I changed out of my gear and spent some time on the bag waiting for C-Flight. All the Fees from No. 22 Squadron returned, one smoking. C-Flight was one short. Monty Cole was missing.

Two groups of Huns bounced the formation near Gonnelieu. Six went after Monty and shot him up badly. He just made it over the lines and crashed near a support trench. He was wounded but alive and on his way to the Peronne-la-Chapelle Casualty Clearing Station. Hill told me the Albatros that shot him down had a heart and twisted cross painted on the side. The Sweetheart - the same Hun that got Hadrill.

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