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#4540963 - 10/15/20 02:22 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) ***** [Re: Raine]  
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Lederhosen – Congratulations to Willi on the promotion and the new assignment, and on bagging that Bréguet!

Carrick – Anything for the war effort, eh?

Fullofit – Impressive work on Ziggy’s part with those Brisfits. They can be very tough customers, in particular when they have an experienced G/O in the second seat. It was hard to watch though, my man having just left those mounts and all.

EPower – Oliver just doesn’t quit. Seventy-six! He is really after that elusive VC, methinks. Loved the vignette with Baring and the new saw!

MFair – Oh dear, I surely do hope some time away will get Ivan back to his old self. Smart on Vogel’s part to send him off for a while to rest and regain his confidence.

KK and Rick – Nice to see you gents dropping by and enjoying the stories. Stay a while, have a drink.

Raine – Well done on Vogel at last hitting the fifty mark! Outstanding telling of the Allwood story and the two men reminiscing. And boots from Harrod’s? Aid and comfort to the enemy to be sure.

Great stuff folks, another very enjoyable catch-up. And now to get our Freddy caught up a bit as well.

.

14 October 1917
Birchley House
Biddenden, Kent

Captain Frederick Abbott guided the nimble little AC 10 along Fosten Lane at a speed some might consider less than prudent. At the break in the trees that signaled the entrance to the drive leading up to his childhood home Freddy carved his mount hard left and skidded through the turn, then shot along the graceful, curving road up to the house, coming to an abrupt halt at the south entrance. He’d no sooner hopped from the car when the door of the home opened and the manor’s tall, stately-looking butler stepped out to greet the youngest member of the Abbott family.

“Good Morning Captain Abbott, and how did you find London?”

“What ho, Mr. Pearson! Spiffing day! And I found London by following the roads northwest for fifty miles – HAW!”

“Most amusing Sir. Allow me to call Joseph for your bag, Captain.”

“No worries, my good man, I’ve got it. But I say, still can’t get use to you calling me ‘Captain Abbott’. It’s always been ‘Master Frederick’. Couldn’t we go back to the old days?”

“I’m sorry Sir, but it wouldn’t really be proper, at least not in public. You’re a decorated flying officer now and”, Mr. Pearson paused for a split-second as he caught sight of the new flash above the left breast pocket of the young Captain’s tunic, “and, with two new ribbons I see. Those weren’t there when you picked up the car. You’ve been awarded the D.S.O. Well done, Sir. And is that the French Croix de Guerre as well?”

“Spot on, Mr. Pearson, and wasn’t I surprised to receive them!” Frederick beamed. “I was handed them both when I reported in at the Cecil to give them my leave itinerary. Apparently the French appreciated me bringing down a Hun bomber that was up to mischief over St. Omer one night in September. And the D.S.O. - well that one left me gobsmacked. Had no idea HQ thought that highly of me. There’s to be an investiture at the Palace soon as well, where the King will pin the medal on me himself!”

“And why wouldn’t they think highly of you, Captain. You’ve made quite a reputation for yourself from what we’ve read in the Gazette, and from what you’ve mentioned in your letters home, Sir and Madam being kind enough to share them with the staff.”

“Haw! If I know Father and Mother, it’s you who inform them of their contents, Mr. Pearson. Have you ever seen either of them actually read one of my letters?”

Mr. Pearson’s jaw tightened, almost imperceptibly, at the Captain’s comment, but he quickly offered a thin smile. The elder gentleman had always held a fondness for Freddy, never approving, (though seldom openly), of how his employers ignored their last child. He hadn’t the heart to tell the young man that he was right, that neither parent bothered reading his letters, instead simply tossing them aside and telling Mr. Pearson he could have them if he so wished.

“Captain Abbott, you know that they…”

“No worries”, Freddy interrupted, giving a toothy grin as he did so. “You and the rest of the staff have always looked out for me, Mr. Pearson. You’re aces!”

The elder butler smiled again at the young man’s comment, “Thank you - Master Frederick.”

Mr. Pearson quickly reacquired his stately demeanor as he announced, “Your parents are still away, Sir.”

“Are they?” Freddy replied offhandedly as he grabbed his bag from the seat of the car and started towards the house.

“They are. However, Miss Lilian is here.”

“She is?” The Captain was shocked. “And what would bring my beloved sister here to grace us with her presence?”

“You should ask her that, Sir. She’s in the east sitting room having tea at the moment, if you would care to join her.”

“Oh I would Mr. Pearson, I would indeed.”

(to be continued)


Birchley House
[Linked Image]

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#4540968 - 10/15/20 02:43 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Lou, I've enjoyed it for some time TBH, just quietly (which I'd concede might seem out of character for me biggrin biggrin biggrin ) It's worth noting that - this being essentially a fictional exercise - there are (practically) no factual technical details to be misrepresented. So, I have little to say smile

I'd also like to add that, if there's anything likely to sway one into buying/flying this sim, you guys are it. Especially with the pics/vids. And I don't even normally care about 'back stories', I'm strictly a 'study sim immersion' sort.

If I were a drinking man, well wink Maybe some of that strong coffee the Europeans seem to favor...now that's the ticket.

How's the new machine performing? (I'm still amazed. Who da man? Lou da man lol)

#4540972 - 10/15/20 03:00 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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hee hee, it is unusual for you to not have a lengthy comment on a topic. biggrin

Strong coffee is it for me anymore as well, with a touch of milk or cream if available.

The new machine is honestly outrageous! I cannot get over the performance. Oh yeah, oh yeah, I da man! But it took quite some help from you , so really kk, you da man! winkngrin

.

#4541007 - 10/15/20 08:07 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Fullofit - Cracking 70. Ser Gut. Oliver better get a mole into the Claims Office up at Wing or he's gonna watch as Hahn goes right on by... Scaring me with those scissors there. Another near miss with that K Camel, thank goodness. Yikes!

Carrick - That sister of Marcel's looks like a fun date. Story arc maybe? Hope the relocation gets sorted quickly.

Led - Willi's got a fine looking new bus. Well done indeed. Good to see you back in the fray. Condolences on the delayed opening of Willi's new account. Blast those claims flunkies.

Lou - I'd like to take credit for the saw story but that was ripped from Orpen's autobiography. Good old Preston, looking after Freddy. Well adjusted child of neglectful parents or is there something darker buried under that cheerful exterior? And what of this Sister? Tantalizing. Love the pic of Birchley House.




À la Recherche du Temps Perdu - Part 35 of many



10 October 1917
56 Squadron RFC
Estrée-Blanche, France

Only the 1.00 show today, the aforementioned DOP to Harlebeke aerodrome. Maxwell, Johnson, Wilkinson, Harmon, and Preston-Cobb. Dodds we left at Estrée-Blanche with orders to learn the map by heart. I’d put Strugnell’s test to him.

Reached the lines at 13,000 feet. Over Harlebeke Huns were waiting high above.

[Linked Image]
Seven Albatri

[Linked Image]
Red noses! The Baron’s men.

[Linked Image]
They used their altitude advantage well. We were defensive for much of the fight.

One of the fiercest combats of my time in France, both sides evenly matched for the most part. Every time I latched onto an Albatros another was threatening behind me. I landed a few snapshots and received a few in return. I saw Wilkinson go down to the Death God. I could do nothing to save him. He fell in pieces with a Hun on his tail.

In time the fight spread out with no other conclusive result for either side, just poor Wilkinson.



11 October 1917
56 Squadron RFC
Estrée-Blanche, France

3.00 Escort 2 Harry Tates from RFC-21 who would bomb enemy positions of the Menin-Roulers road. After two bombing runs, we saw the RE.8s back to the lines, where a quartet of Pfalz attacked.

[Linked Image]
I set one afire. Maybery’s burst sent him spinning down out of control.

A Flight accounted for 3 of the 4 Huns but Preston-Cobb was shot down and killed. Jeffs, Wilkinson now Preston-Cobb. In less than I week I’d lost half of A Flight. Preston-Cobb lasted exactly two weeks. He might still be alive if he’d had more time. It’s pure murder sending inexperienced men like him over the lines.

A bad day for 56. Cunningham from B Flight was wounded and made a forced landing near Pont-de-Nieppe. Shot in the back, he was taken to No. 2 Australian CCS.

We sent the Rumpler claim up as shared. Wing awarded the victory to Maybery.



12 October 1917
56 Squadron RFC
Estrée-Blanche, France

8.45 On standby this morning when a message came through of Hun activity along the Veurne-Jabbeke road. Maxwell, Turnbull, Harmon, and Dodds. Stinging rain through 8000 feet. Weaving our way around towering stacks of Cumulus we were nearly at the lines when I spotted a Albatros emerging from a cloud below. Why he was alone and heading deep into our lines I could only guess.

A brief wing waggle then I split-arsed down behind him. Too much speed even with a sideslip. This Hun handled his machine well. I began to wonder it he was armored. A full drum and he flew on. Could my shooting have been that bad? It took me a third pass before I did any damage.

[Linked Image]
He flew straight briefly then slid off left. Near Furnes aerodrome he fell, clawing the dust in his fingers.

A Flight circled above me. I climbed to them and we resumed our march to the lines.
30 minutes patrolling the intercept point. No Huns. Turning south we made a sweep over Poelcappelle, dropping down in a shallow descent from 14,000 feet looking for trouble.

[Linked Image]
The guns spoke below. We chased the echo down.

[Linked Image]
And flew straight onto three silver Pfalz over Menin!

A nearly perfect if unplanned bounce. Maxwell sent one down in flames. I put a full drum into another.

[Linked Image]
“He fell thunderously, and darkness closed over both eyes.”

Only the one patrol today. Rain early afternoon but the weather cleared enough in early evening for me to lead the newest members of A Flight on a practice patrol. Cawson and Read arrived yesterday. Not enough hours. We’ll have our work cut out keeping them alive much less training them up to match fitness. Read looked especially shaky. I hope it’s just nerves.

The long-suffering and begrimed dispatch rider brought confirmation of today's two claims. Seventy-eight.







Last edited by epower; 10/16/20 12:04 AM.
#4541019 - 10/15/20 11:50 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Fullofit]  
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Originally Posted by Fullofit
14 October, 1917 08:50
Ceurne, Flanders Sector
Jasta 36
Oberleutnant Zygmunt Dolf Hahn EK2 EK1 HHO PLM AO
68 confirmed kills

Both Tripes have been confirmed.
Zygmunt’s Jasta was assigned to patrol over Kruishoutem aerodrome near Waregem. As they were sitting in their machines on the start line, a flight of Bristol aeroplanes overflew the airfield at low altitude. Thankfully they haven’t dropped any bombs. Could they be coming back empty from a bombing run earlier? Zygmunt was first off the line and watched as two Englanders turned back to attack. One of them lost control, or was hit by Flak and quickly crashed at the edge of the airfield. The second one was now being pursued by Hahn after two circuits of chasing tail. A barrage of Spandau later, the Brisfit nosed over and crashed in the adjacent corner of the airfield to where the first two-seater had been shot down.
Zygmunt was now searching for the reminder of the bombers and soon found them mixing it up with the rest of his Schwarm over the aerodrome. Ziggy quickly engaged one of them that appeared to be preoccupied with one of the Albatrosen. It made Hahn’s job that much easier and soon the Bristol was on its last legs. The gunner was unresponsive, probably nursing a mortal wound. In his final desperate move the British pilot attempted to ram Ziggy when he flew beside the crippled machine. The maneuver didn’t work and the bomber keeled over and smashed headlong into the ground right between where his other two compatriots have crashed earlier.
There was no time to sit on his laurels. Yet another Brisfit crossed his gunsights. This one realized what was about to happen and initiated his withdrawal. Higher and higher he went. Too far to be caught. Zygmunt watched as his prey was getting away and then a burst of Flak engulfed the Britisher. Direct hit! His machine lost control and began to dive. The pilot regained control, but it was too late. The Albatrosen were all over him like a pack of wolves. He was soon being perforated by the German machine gun fire. Hahn wondered why the gunner wasn’t firing at him. He had plenty of opportunities. Was he injured? No! As the gunner opened fire Zygmunt realized he was fixated on von Bülow who was flying behind him. Lower and lower the Brisfit went, just above the treetops. Ziggy came around for another firing pass. He opened fire just as the bomber hit the ground and turned over. The rest of the English raiding party had left the area. Zygmunt gave the signal to land. There would be no patrolling over Kruishoutem today.

YouTube Link



I rarely have time to play much of anything and almost none to watch videos, but I checked out that first one, Fullofit. Very fun. I've had cases like that at the beginning where I just want to fight but my wingmen really way to stay in formation! Quote exciting, lots of cloud-pop though!


The older I get, the more I realize I don't need to be Han, Luke or Leia. I'm just happy to be rebel scum...
#4541024 - 10/16/20 01:41 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Achtung!

[Linked Image]

It is the Kaiser's Royal and Imperial command that the following individual be recognized for his valor:

[Linked Image]

Citation to the award reads as follows:

Leutnant der Reserve Immer has displayed unfailing courage and devotion to duty in aerial combat over Flanders. In two months of service at the front as both an NCO and Officer, he has destroyed nearly twenty enemy flugmaschinen and balloons, and has set a fine example to all who serve with him.
Awarded the Royal House Order of Hohenzollern Knight’s Cross with Swords, on 15. Oktober 1917.

You make the Vaterland most proud.

.

#4541025 - 10/16/20 01:42 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Attention!

[Linked Image]

His Majesty King George V hereby confers the following honour:

[Linked Image]

A grateful people thank you for your service and loyalty.

.

#4541029 - 10/16/20 02:48 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Epower, I'm delighted to be able to congratulate you on the VC. It's richly deserved. Heck, you deserved it just for the writing! I loved the Baring vignette. I can't recall where I first read of that episode.

Lou, another wonderful episode from Freddie. I love that he is who he is despite his parents. And I particularly love that he's chosen to drive an AC. I'm still mad at Matthew in Downton Abbey for wrapping his AC around a tree. Oh yes, and dying too… You know, if you hadn't spent all that money on your new computer you too could have a nice sports car!

Carrick, what did you do to encourage the wrath of the claims gods? Best of luck when your transfer finally comes through.

MFair, be sure to let Vogel know where you're staying in Berlin so that he can have the Hohenzollern House Order presented to you there. Congratulations on reaching 20! Enjoy your little break and hurry back.

Fullofit, I fear you're right about not catching up with Ziggy. I will need much better luck with the claims department if I am not going to fall even further behind. The last week has been frustrating.

Rick, KK, really enjoy seeing you guys drop in.


Tagebuch of Oblt. der Res. Hans-Dieter Vogel

Jasta 12, Roucourt, France

Part 44

11 October 1917


Air activity is decreasing with the shorter days. Today I join the men in the pilot’s hut shortly after sunrise and we chat for an hour and a half. Then I inspect all the shops and hangers and storage areas before returning to the pilot’s hut. Still the telephone is mute. Shortly before ten, Mueller calls to inform us that there is enemy activity over Méricourt. For some strange reason, the Army staff has called this report into the Jasta office. I have insisted that all such calls go directly to the field. Mueller has already expressed our displeasure.

In fifteen minutes we are 2000 metres over Méricourt and spot four French Spads harrying a pair of two-seaters. I turn to place the sun at our back and then we pounce on them. If the Frenchman are wise they will use their speed to run away. And for the most part, that is exactly what they do. Except for one of them. He makes one last attempt to attack the observation machine that is trying to make for Bersée field. I have the advantage of height and my first burst causes damage. The Spad climbs away but it cannot make full speed. My second burst sends it spiralling to earth, trailing a plume of smoke.

[Linked Image]
"My second burst sends it spiralling to earth, trailing a plume of smoke."

I expect this victory to be indisputable, but the observer of the DFW has filed a claim and his claim is preferred to mine, even though we were a good two kilometres away from the DFW when the Spad began to smoke and fall.

Such is fate. I console myself that at least I was born beautiful. Or perhaps not really beautiful, but with an honest face. All right, just a plain face then.

12 October 1917

This morning we are to escort three DFW machines to take photographs of the British lines to the south of us near Bapaume. It is difficult to fly with these observation machines when they are working as it forces us to remain at the edge of a stall for nearly an hour. Instead, I climb above the DFWs and circle about. It is while doing this that I spot a group of five British triplanes climbing towards our friends. It is a wonderful fight. I have not tangled with these Sopwith triplanes for quite a few days and I must work hard to avoid being drawn in to turn fight with the nimble scouts.

One of the Sopwiths attempts to get behind Feldwebel Falke. In seconds I have the Englishman in my sights. My first burst shatters his right wings and the lower wing breaks away. I make a careful note of where it crashes.

[Linked Image]
"My first burst shatters his right wings..."

The fight has broken up. In the distance I see two aeroplanes high above, turning about one another. Then a burst of anti-aircraft fire guides me to a lone triplane sneaking homeward and less than a kilometre away. I have a slight height advantage and close the distance quickly. I must fire from long range to prevent it from reaching the lines. The first burst causes some small debris to fly into the air behind the triplane. The second burst causes the Englishman to begin a long dive into no man’s land. I see the machine crest a small rise and seemingly disappear, its brown colouring rendering it invisible against the mud. I watch for several minutes and the machine does not reappear. I submit claims for both triplanes.

Alas, the powers on high seemed to believe that I am a master of fiction. Only the first of two triplanes is confirmed. Mueller goes to his chalkboard and writes “51” beside my name.


13 October 1917

For the first time in more than a week, all our machines are serviceable. We are ordered to destroy an observation balloon near Bertincourt, east of Bapaume. The flight is uneventful. I lead the way and am first to dive at the target balloon. I fire more than one hundred rounds and see smoke curl up from it. The balloon explodes as I break off to avoid a collision.

Once again, the credit goes elsewhere. Feldwebel Neckel was firing into the balloon when it ignited. I cannot argue this one.


14 October 1917

I am in the mood for a good scrap this morning. Six of us meet with three observation machines and escort them south toward the lines near Cambrai. Just as we get to the point where the two-seaters will begin their photographic work, a large formation of French Spads appears overhead. The Spads dive on us and we begin the dance.

Scarcely has the fight begun when it is all over. I turn toward the first Spad that flashes past and, in that instant, several rounds hit my machine. I do not know where the enemy aeroplane that hit me is hiding. A stream of smoke spills from the engine of my Albatros. I quickly shut everything down and dive for the nearest clouds. If ever there was a time when the wings of an Albatros should fail, this is it. Fortunately, none of the Spads follows me, my machine holds together, and I am able to glide into Pronvillie.


15 October 1917

Again we are escorting DFWs over the lines between Cambrai and Bapaume. For nearly half an hour, we see no sign of the enemy. And then Ewers fires a flare. I signal to him to lead the way. We bank left and begin a long, shallow dive. It is some time before I see what has attracted his attention and am amazed that he could pick them out. A formation of five de Havilland scouts climbs to meet us.

It does not take long for the fight to break up. I find myself circling west of Havrincourt Wood with one of the DH5s. After what seems like an age, the British pilot tries to draw me down over his reserve trenches. He has misjudged. I close on him before we are within range of the Tommies on the ground. I fire and he falls.

Minutes later I am climbing east again when I spot another de Havilland running for home. He does not see me coming and joins his colleague in Valhalla. I am overjoyed. This is more like it!

[Linked Image]
"He does not see me coming and joins his colleague in Valhalla."

Now I see an Albatros over the lines with a de Havilland on its tail. It is the machine of Leutnant Metzger, our most recent arrival. I race to his rescue but am too late. Metzger’s Albatros tumbles out of control and I watch in horror as it shatters into a low hill. I go straight for the de Havilland. This Englishman has some skill and we waltz about the sky for a good ten minutes. At one point the de Havilland dives and pulls up in front of me in a loop. This move should be fatal, for a machine in the loop hangs nearly stationary in the air for several seconds, an inviting target. But the Englishman has judged it well. I have the faster machine and am in a dive. I cannot follow him directly. I pull up in a half loop and roll over at the top, looking all about. There he is! He has almost escaped. But now it is too late. My bullets rip into his machine and I see a trickle of flame. I silently give thanks that we are low and the de Havilland will smash into the earth long before it burns.

Back at Roucourt I see Steinmesser’s personal lorry in front of the château. I drop down above the entrance lane, the engine roaring and the wires singing, wingtips clipping tree leaves on both sides as I roar up the road. Just before the château I pull up over the chimney tops and roll twice before switching off and dropping down onto the nearby aerodrome.

[Linked Image]
"Just before the château I pull up over the chimney tops..."

As I enter the Kasino, I find Leutnant Immer sitting in the front room, nursing an Apfelsaft. “You look like someone stole your dog,” I joke. He smiles faintly and nods.

I ask Mueller whether there’s something wrong with Immer. He tells me that he has just returned by road from Bersée. He has been in a midair collision with Leutnant Becker today. Becker is fine but Immer’s bucket is overflowing.

In war, every man has a bucket. Some buckets are larger than others and your bucket can change size from day to day. You fill it with every near miss, lost friend, falling observer, or flaming aeroplane. After a few days’ rest you might empty it a little. But given the wrong set of circumstances and a bit too much tough work, every man’s bucket spills over. And Immer’s is full.

I go back to the front room and sit down with my friend Ivan. I make small talk about Berlin. He emerges from his dark mood. “When I was a boy,” I say, “I used to walk the length of Kurfuerstendamm and stare through the windows of the cafés. I remember gazing at the hard chocolate on some of the fine tortes. Or the marzipan. I have only tasted it a couple of times. Kranzler’s would make castles and knights and dragons out of coloured marzipan – have you ever been there?”

Immer shakes his head. Of course he hasn’t. Neither of us could have got past the front door.

“Then you must go.” I hand him a ten-mark note. “I’m giving you five days’ leave. That’s enough time to get to Berlin for at least a couple of days. And I’m ordering you to take this and get a coffee and the most disgustingly rich thing you can buy at Kranzler’s. If you have anything left, bring me back a piece of marzipan.”

Immer tries to protest but I order him to pack and pick up his travel warrant from Mueller. I will make sure that Steinmesser arranges for him to get on a train and has a meal with him. We need him back in one piece. I order Immer to send me a telegram and let me know where he can be found in Berlin.

My three de Havilland claims are submitted. I file my report and go to wash up. When I come back downstairs, I can hear Mueller shouting on the telephone. It seems only the first of my three de Havillands was witnessed. Mueller shrugs, erases the number 51 on his board and replaces it with 52. Mueller asks me if I know Zygmunt Hahn. I tell him that I have not met him but I have heard of him. “He now has sixty-four victories,” says Mueller. “That is three more than Richthofen.”

Much glory goes to him who finishes first in a contest. Mild approval goes to him who finishes second. The journeymen who finishes third gets to pick up the glasses and turn out the lights.

Attached Files Kill 51.jpgKill 52.jpgOctober 1917 falling Spad.jpgOctober 1917 buzzing the château.jpg
#4541050 - 10/16/20 11:01 AM 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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Raine – Another fine episode. It’s always more immersive when storylines cross here. And your Vogel, he is an insightful fellow. Also, that flyover screenshot is great!
As to the DA episode where Matthew takes out that lovely AC along with himself, that one nearly made me cry, and honestly more for the car.

EPower – Brilliant screenshots to go along with the combat reports. Congratulations to Oliver on his VC! An investiture at the palace story coming along soon, eh what?

MFair – Congratulations to Ivan as well on his HHO! Still one of the prettiest gongs in the box.

.

14 October 1917
Birchley House
Biddenden, Kent

(continued)


Miss Lilian Alma Abbott, third child of Arledge and Orelia Abbott, and Frederick’s older sister by nearly ten years, was pouring herself a second cup of tea when her brother entered the sitting room.

“Hello Freddy”, Lilian greeted coolly. “I assumed that was you careening along the drive like a madman. Surprised you haven’t wrecked that ridiculous little machine by now.”

“Nice to see you too Lily”, Frederick grinned as he plopped down in the chair on the opposite side of the small serving table.

“Still doing that”, she sneered.

“Doing what?”, he taunted.

“You know how I hate being called ‘Lily’, yet you persist.”

“I do”, Freddy smirked.

A moment later the maid entered with a tray holding a fresh pot of tea and a second cup and saucer, along with an assortment of scones and preserves.

“Becca my dear, wonderful to see you”, Frederick smiled broadly as the woman approached.

“Thank you Sir, and you as well”, she demurely replied while deftly switching trays at the table, favouring Frederick’s side as she did so. “I brought you some of the marmalade Sir, I know 'ow much you like it.”

“That will be quite all Rebecca, you can leave us now”, Lilian cut in sharply.

The maid gave a slight nod of her head, and a “Yes Miss”, as she quickly left the room, offering Frederick a smile as he watched her leave.

“You are much too familiar with the staff Freddy, they’ve never respected you because of it”, Lilian admonished as she sipped her tea and gazed out into the gardens.

“And you have always resented how they favour me over you”, Frederick laughed as he slathered a spoonful of the marmalade onto one of the scones and took it in one large, satisfying bite, then went on, “at least the staff like having me around.”

“As if I care what the staff likes, or whom they favour.”

“Oh I think you do care.”

As Frederick took a second scone and proceeded to drape it in more marmalade Lilian sized up his uniform.

“So you’re a flying ace now; wings, ribbons, and all. At least you’re not embarrassing the family, as you usually do.”

“Haw! You’re one to talk of embarrassment, Lily”, Freddy laughed. “Who’s the one that turned this house on its head when she ran off to college rather than marrying her Mr. Pembrook. That would be you, dear sister. Father wanted you dragged back here in chains, and he’d have done it too if Mother hadn’t talked him down.”

“And why shouldn’t I have gone to college?”, Lilian demanded loudly. “I’m smarter than anyone in this family. I wasn’t about to be tied to a dolt like Richard Pembrook, simply because Father found it financially beneficial for us to marry.” She paused for a moment, staring out the window, seeming to focus on something far beyond the garden. She then returned her gaze to her brother.

“Do you know how lucky you are, that Father and Mother don’t care about you at all?”

Her pointed remark stabbed at Frederick. He knew full well it was true; had realized it years ago as a young boy; had told himself countless times that it was so; and had learned to laugh it off. But when someone else who knew this truth too, and said it like that, out loud - well - it took an extra moment then to laugh.

“I mean it Freddy”, his sister continued. “You can do whatever you please and never need to feel you’ve let them down. You go about your merry way, with that silly grin on your face, enjoying whatever comes along.”

The young Captain looked across at his sister, sitting primly; tea cup and saucer resting lightly in her lap; her troubled eyes fixed again on a place beyond the garden. Then he suddenly realized it, he felt sorry for her. He also suddenly realized he was confused as to why she was here at all.

“Lily, old girl, why do you suddenly care what Father and Mother think”, Frederick questioned. “You stood up to them, Father in particular, and followed your own ambitions. So - why are you back home?”

Lilian’s expression abruptly shifted at the inquiry. Her eyes flashed, now looking far more angry than troubled, while at the same time giving the impression she might burst into tears.

“What is it Lily, what’s wrong”, her brother asked in honest concern.

“Oh Freddy. I - I miss Richard. I think I love him.”

“HAW!”


(to be continued)

.

#4541097 - 10/16/20 06:40 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Wow , just great yarns going on.

#4541121 - 10/17/20 12:52 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Marcel Jules Gilbare
Adjutant
ESC. 73, GC12
Les Storks
Dunkerque
1 Victory
5 Unconfirmed

Sep 16, 1917.

Finally. I joined up with my new Esc a Member of the Famous Storks Flying Group. How my orders got changed I dont know.but happy to be a member. The Old Hands are part of the Rover flights as a New Guy I will be part of the 2nd section . Flew my orientation flight as a wing man with 8 a/c at 14000 ft. Overflew 2 Boche Scouts the flight dove and knocked down one a flamer and drove the other one down towards Hun land.

Attached Files CFS3 2020-10-16 17-29-13-25.jpgCFS3 2020-10-16 17-31-12-44.jpg
#4541142 - 10/17/20 07:03 AM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Lou - Curiouser and curiouser with Freddy. Looks like he's got a bit of an edge to him after all. So much the better. Really looking forward to seeing where this goes. Many thanks for the lovely Gong. Oliver's world is about to change. In a perfect world, would the divinely magnificent Madelaine Kahn <Be still my beating heart> play the role of Lily?



MFair - H & B on the HHO Gong! Well earned. Now let's get Ivan some R & R so he can clear his mind and get back in the fight. Berlin story beckons.

Carrick - Les Cigognes! - Zut Alors! Quel Dommage! Sacre Bleu! C'est Incroyable! Marcel has landed in a good place methinks. Nothing like a boatload of HAs to bolster the patrol roster.

Raine - Thank you as well for Oliver's VC. It looks to be a 'be careful what you wish for' situation. Vogel has really aggravated the Claims Gods. Sheesh. At least he's done the right thing with Immer. Don't worry about that Richthofen guy, Oliver put him down hard on August 20th and word is he's still on convalescent leave. I guess he survived that crash after all. This Hahn fellow on the other hand bears watching. Surely Steinmesser can exert some influence with these claims people. Biographical leverage is the relevant term here. Things Ziggy never mentioned about that Nadette ... Love the chateau screenshot. Rotten Huns and the Limey Brass Hats have all the nice digs.



À la Recherche du Temps Perdu - Part 36 of many




13 October 1917
56 Squadron RFC
Estrée-Blanche, France

9.30 Deep Offensive Patrol in support of yet another attack on Passchendaele. Wynghene aerodrome to Aartrijke. Maxwell, Turnbull, Harmon and Dodds.

[Linked Image]
Stay under the Observer, Oliver!

I broke off to change drums after three 30 round bursts from range. The Rumpler started smoking.

Maxwell and Dodds attacked the other Hun, while Turnbull and I took turns with the first one.

[Linked Image]
When Turnbull broke off, I closed to 40 yards, Lewis and Vickers blazing.

Maxwell saw to the other Rumpler. Both Huns down we climbed back to 11000 and resumed patrolling. Dropping down to 8000 feet over Wynghere, I could see what appeared to be aircraft on the field. Tempting, but far too risky 15 miles into Hunland. We climbed again and finished the patrol. No other e/a sighted. Returned to Estrée-Blanche.

A letter from Eliza! She finally wrote me back. I stared at it for nearly an hour before summoning the courage to read it. When I did, I wished I'd thrown it unopened into the fire. How did it come to this? I still don't understand.

[Linked Image]




14 October 1917
56 Squadron RFC
Estrée-Blanche, France

7.45 Patrol of Friendly lines, Neuve-Chapelle to Lens. The new A Flight with Maxwell, Turnbull, Johnson, Harmon, and Dodds. I’m trying to keep Cawson and Read away from the Hun for as long as Major Blomfield will allow. They’re not ready.

Turning south from Neuve-Chapelle, a dot ahead resolved into a solitary DFW who turned and came straight at us. I thought about attacking head-on but let him sail by. Johnson, hindmost in the wedge, was in the best position. He peeled away and was right on the Hun’s tail.

[Linked Image]
The DFW spiraled, ever widening as he fell...

Approaching Lens we flew into a flight of four Albatri. I attacked their leader. After two solid bursts he dove out. I made to follow but saw another Hun on Harmon’s tail. Breaking off, I attacked this second Albatros who also dove away. Large gold letters ‘AH’ were painted on his top plane.
I followed him down.

[Linked Image]
When he flattened his dive at 2000 feet, I was right behind him.

[Linked Image]
“He dropped then from the chariot and his armor clattered upon him.”

Yesterday’s Rumpler and the ‘AH’ Albatros both rejected. Mystifying. No matter how many times I try to convince myself that more Huns await, this time I’m genuinely annoyed. It shouldn’t matter but somehow it does.



15 October 1917
56 Squadron RFC
Estrée-Blanche, France

9.50 Late morning and A Flight flew an offensive patrol 12 miles into Hunland. Our target was the Kaiser’s aerodrome at La Petrie, northeast of Lens. I had an uneasy feeling about this one. High winds today blowing viciously from the West. Our trip home would be a hard slog. Maxwell, Turnbull, Harmon and Dodds. Arthur asked to join us for which I was most grateful.

B Flight led the way to La Petrie.

[Linked Image]
Huns were waiting over the aerodrome.

[Linked Image]
Green Tail again! Could it be the same man?

Down he went, jinking and twisting with a remarkable expertise. We had numbers for once, two flights to their seven Albatri. I plunged down after Green Tail but could not follow him closely. In the end I circled down, waiting for him to flatten, which he did north of La Petrie. Another burst and black smoke spewed from his engine. He nosed over and went straight in from 1500 feet.

I climbed looking for A flight. An SE harried an Albatros.

[Linked Image]
Arthur sent the Hun down in flames, just as another dove to attack.

Breaking hard left, Arthur dove under me as I raced toward him. I was on the Albatros now. The Hun had a white stripe on his top plane and a large red ‘J’ painted on his fuselage. He saw me too late. Tracers splashed his left wings. Right rudder sent them onto his cockpit.

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

[Linked Image]
I sat in the cockpit of B.35 watching a flight of pilots fresh from England make their landings.

It wasn’t pretty. As I stepped out of the cockpit, Major Blomfield greeted me, as he did all his pilots both departing and returning from a patrol. Orpen was with him. A large smoking fire burned near the windsock to better indicate the wind direction. Orps told me the Major had invited him down to “see some crashes.”

I watched these ghastly landings with a morbid fascination. One poor devil was really in a funk. He circled the aerodrome twelve times, each time coming down for a landing before abandoning the attempt. When at last he found his courage, the SE hit with two or three large bumps and then as if time itself slowed the machine went delicately, almost gracefully over it’s nose. The running prop shattered, and the force of the crash broke the main spar. A complete write-off.

“Come along,” said Major Blomfield to Orpen and we all raced toward the wreck. The hapless novice emerged from under the machine covered in oil and filth, eyes wide as dinner plates but otherwise unharmed.

“You unspeakable creature!” cried Major Blomfield. “Don’t let me see your face again for 24 hours!”

The unspeakable creature gave a stricken look of complete dejection then limped off toward the hangars.

After lunch I did see the Major pat him on the back saying he hoped the lad felt none the worse for wear.

I spent a delightful afternoon with all three of “The Children” running thru various Rugby football drills. I think they may let me in the side for the next match.

Arthur visits Orpen tomorrow to sit for a portrait. I teased him relentlessly. Arthur being Arthur he took it all in good humor. “Orps should be painting your portrait not mine,” he said with his usual grin. “How may Huns do have you now?”
“So many, I don’t remember exactly,” I said, trying to appear inscrutable. “Besides, I’m a perfidious ex-colonial. I’ve no place in the National Portrait Gallery of Great Britain.”

There’s something about this “Boy from Eton’ as the Daily Mail article calls him. His is no ordinary light. Despite our job of killing Huns, there is no malice in him. I praised his ability not long ago.
“It’s our job, Ripper,” he replied with a shrug. “We should do it well, but when peace comes, we will do it better!” How it must grate that the war keeps him from Oxford. Such is his heart’s desire, although the other day he made mention of Maybery’s cousin Nasra. A chance remark but I believe there’s something more to it.

Today’s Albatri confirmed. Eighty. Ten more and I might equal the late Major Swanson, another American and still the highest scoring Ace in the RFC, second only to the Naval Ace Mulberry. They both went West in early June. I do wish I’d had a chance to meet them.



16 October 1917
56 Squadron RFC
Estrée-Blanche, France

8.45 Patrol of enemy lines from Vimy Ridge to the Bapaume-Cambrai road. We’d be cutting across the blunt Arras salient. Maxwell, Johnson, Turnbull, Harmon, Dodds and Cawson on his first war patrol. I left Read with McCudden who would take him up on practice patrol.

Several layers of cloud strata, the highest topping at 13,000 feet. Hit the lines a 15,000. No Huns today. After an hour on station, I led A Flight on a low sweep over Phalempin. Empty skies. The Luftstreitkräfte were nowhere to be found.

Landing at Estrée-Blanche, Major Blomfield greeted us as was his custom. He appeared unusually pleased with himself as he spoke to A flight. I soon found out why.

They’ve gone and given me the Victoria Cross! It took a minute for the news to sink in, as if the words might have an alternate meaning. I stood there on the flight line, dumbfounded, as everyone went mad pounding me on the back and shaking my hand in congratulation. It was surreal. When I wandered back to my tent, still in shock, Harris was waiting.

“We’ll need to see to that jacket, Sir. A fresh tunic is just the thing after a patrol,” he said, holding up one of my Kingsman service jackets, this one newly adorned with the blood-red ribbon of the Victoria Cross. How did he know, and where did he get the ribbon? He’d already sewed the VC ribbon onto all but one of my Kingsman tunics. That one would be for the Investiture.

I walked into Estrée-Blanche town to the post office. Telegram to Smokey. On impulse I also cabled Aunt Rhea and General Aubrey inviting them to be my guests at the ceremony. I’m allowed three guests at the Investiture. In a perfect world Eliza would be there with me, but I couldn’t bring myself to ask, knowing what her response would be. The words of her last letter tear at me still.

Last edited by epower; 10/17/20 07:27 AM.
#4541173 - 10/17/20 01:38 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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L'Etoile du Nord
.

Carrick - Congratulations on Marcel becoming a ‘Stork’. He is in some fine company there.

EPower - I don’t care how good a plane you’re flying, those deep patrols ALWAYS make me nervous. But that letter from Eliza? A Hun bullet is kinder. Wonderful writing and screenshots, as always. And that Harris is Johnny-on-the-spot.
Also, Madeline Kahn would be an excellent casting choice for Lilian. “Oh you men are all alike. Seven or eight quick ones and you’re off with the boys, to boast, and brag.” Gawd, I love that movie, and I still laugh so hard every time I watch it.

.

14 October 1917
Birchley House
Biddenden, Kent

(continued)

“So what’s going on in the sitting room Becca, could you hear? I know full well you were listening.” It was the housekeeper Mrs. Barlow asking the question as she assisted Margaret, the kitchen maid and stand-in cook, with the lunch preparations, (the scullery maid having run to town on an errand, and Chef Nibley on a leave while Mr. and Mrs. Abbott were away).

“I could, until Mr. Pearson caught me and sent me along”, the house’s first maid replied as she set the tray on the sink counter.

Joseph, the footman, who was finishing up a quick cup of tea and a biscuit between jobs, piped up, “I’ll see if I can’t get within earshot, but you fill me in on what I missed here when I get back.” He dashed from the kitchen before Mrs. Barlow could object to such action, though her objection would have been primarily for show, she was as curious as the rest of the staff to know what was going on. She turned her attention instead back to Rebecca.

“So tell, girl.”

“Well, Miss Lilian was being ‘er usual mean self, tellin Master Frederick ‘ow ‘e was too familiar with the staff ‘n ‘ow we didn’t respect ‘im for it.”

“You’d know on the subject of him being too familiar, now wouldn’t you Becca”, Mrs. Barlow smirked.

Rebecca glared at the elder woman for a brief moment before continuing, “Miss Lilian even made light of Master Frederick’s ribbons and ‘im being a pilot n’all. An‘e’s a Captain now too!”

“And she’s a cow”, Mrs. Barlow cut in, then quickly added, “I shouldn’t have said that, my apologies, go on.”

Rebecca chuckled, “Well, she is though isn’t she. Anyway, so then she tells Master Frederick ‘ow Sir and Madam don’t care about ‘im and never did, which a’course is true, an’ow ‘e’s an’embarrassment to th’family ‘n all.”

“I take back my apology”, Mrs. Barlow interjected as she began peeling some apples.

“As well you should”, Rebecca agreed, “Where was I - oh yeah - the best part - Miss Lilian said she came back because she’s in love with Mr. Pembrook! And after she ran off to college to get away from ‘im!”

“I knew it, I knew she loved him”, Mrs. Barlow declared. “She only left to spite her father. That silly girl has never known what she wanted. So what did Frederick do?”

“ ’e laughed at her!”

“Good for him.”

“An’ then Miss Lilian got ‘oppin mad an’ said ‘ow dare ‘im, laughin’ at ‘er, an’ow she regretted right off ‘aving even told ‘im ‘ow she felt about Mr. Pembrook, an’ow Freddy , sorry, Master Frederick, was the last person on earth who should be laughin’ at someone else’s be’aviour, an’ an’ “

“Take a breath girl”, Mrs. Barlow remarked.

“Sorry, she’s just so - mean to ‘im”, Rebecca sighed as she calmed herself.

“So what did Frederick say to all that?” the housekeeper asked as she continued readying the apples for the cook.

“aw, ‘e was so sweet. ‘e told Miss Lilian to calm down and then asked if she knew ‘ow Mr. Pembrook felt about ‘er, an’she said that even after three years apart ‘e was still persuin’ ‘er an’ sendin’er love letters an’gifts an’whatnot. Isn’t that nice, him pinin’ for ‘er an’all, though how anyone could love ‘er is beyond me, but…”, Rebecca paused for a moment as she took one of the apple slices from the pile Mrs. Barlow was building and had a nibble.

“Is there more, Becca?”, the elder woman asked, mildly annoyed that the maid had just helped herself without permission.

“Yeah, Master Frederick said that Miss Lilian an’ Mr. Pembrook should go an’ get married, if that’s what they both want, an’ not to worry about what anyone thinks, least of all Mr. Abbott.”

“Good advice. Frederick’s always been brighter than people give him credit for.”

“Yeah. Anyway, that’s when Mr. Pearson caught me listenin’ and sent me off, so…”, Rebecca summed up as she returned to the tray she’d set at the sink and began helping with the clean-up.

Not but a minute later Joseph returned from his own surveillance. Having also been caught by Mr. Pearson, shortly after posting himself within hearing distance of the sitting room, he had little to add other than that things seemed to be back to normal between the two siblings. Also, that the Captain would be leaving first thing in the morning for his new assignment over in Throwley, to which Miss Lilian had responded by actually saying she hoped he would keep himself safe.

“She probably felt obligated to say that”, Mrs. Barlow observed. “I don’t believe she cares one whit what happens to Frederick.”

.

#4541177 - 10/17/20 02:39 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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carrick58 Offline
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epower thanks for posting the clip of Madeline she will always be a favorite.

#4541185 - 10/17/20 03:42 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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Fullofit Offline
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Ajax, ON
Lou, Brisfit are always tough to take out and Ziggy was just lucky that none of those skillful gunners hasn’t targeted him.
But, look at Freddy! Most people when they go into town come back with groceries. Freddy comes back with two new medals. Just incredible!
And regarding his insufferable sister, who by the way is a total berk, in his own words: “- HAW!” Parents know best!

Epower, congrats on your VC! Well deserved. I am looking forward to Oliver meeting the King again.
Indeed, a dark week for 56 with so many casualties. The Huns are still putting up a good fight despite inferior machines.
Congrats on the latest victories. Oliver is slightly ahead of Hahn. It will be a tall order to catch up to him.

Rick, glad you’re enjoying our stories here. Thanks for looking in. True, wingmen typically want to form up before getting on with a fight. Thankfully this time around they’ve recognized the danger early. As to cloud popping, unfortunate side effect when they’re this close to the ground.

MFair, congrats on the Hohenzollern gong. I agree with Lou, one of the prettier ones.

Raine, tough luck with the claims. Perhaps Steinmesser lost his touch? Vogel is quite deadly in the sky these days. Well done with the three de Havillands, it’s just too bad about the lack of recognition for the hard work.
Don’t you feel like your wingmen are just waiting for you to do all the legwork on those balloon busting missions only to finish it off with a handful of bullets? I wonder what Steinmesser messer is up to now? Is he bringing stuff in or out?

Carrick, hope Marcel will learn some new tricks from the old hands at Les Cigognes.

Epower (again), what was that about Nadette? But never mind ... a letter from Eliza. I feel rotten for reading other people’s private correspondence, but all is fair in War and ... well, let’s leave it at war. So, what was this saying about loving something and setting it free? Is it time?
So, 80 kills. Homer himself may as well start writing your Odyssey.

16 October, 1917 09:45
Ceurne, Flanders Sector
Jasta 36
Oberleutnant Zygmunt Dolf Hahn EK2 EK1 HHO PLM AO
72 confirmed kills

The Camel from last morning had been denied, but the one on fire in the afternoon was his.
They were ordered to patrol enemy front lines between Menen and Lille.
Near Lille they’ve encountered a small flight of Camels and engaged them right away. The Camel pilots were well trained and the Luftstreitkräfte pilots had their hands full. Zygmunt and von Bülow tag teamed one that was running circles around them. The two aces took turns at attempting to bring the Englander down. In the end it was a burst from Hahn’s machine guns that brought the enemy down close to the edge of the city.

YouTube Link



The rest of the battle has already shifted over the No-Man’s Land and Zygmunt could see the aeroplanes twirling around when he arrived. As it happened, one of the Camels was herded towards him by one of the Albatrosen and Ziggy didn’t skip a beat. He was on him instantly and fired a salvo after which the Sopwith spun to the ground. It was a successful patrol.

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."
#4541208 - 10/17/20 07:30 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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carrick58 Offline
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Marcel Jules Gilbare
Adjutant
ESC. 73, GC12
Les Cigognes
Dunkerque
1 Victory
5 Unconfirmed

Sep 17, 1917.

The flying field got hit while we were up today. Lost 2 hangers + 1 a/c.

Line Patrol: Tangled with Zee Boche We had 7 a/c up the enemy had 4 Albatross Types. 2 Claimed for 0 lost. I lined up on one e/a firing 2 strings of 20 -23 rds the lost him in the clouds.





Attached Files CFS3 2020-10-17 13-02-58-79.jpgCFS3 2020-10-17 13-03-12-84.jpgCFS3 2020-10-17 13-14-50-67.jpg
Last edited by carrick58; 10/17/20 08:38 PM.
#4541224 - 10/17/20 09:43 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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Ajax, ON
17 October, 1917 07:45 morning mission
Ceurne, Flanders Sector
Jasta 36
Oberleutnant Zygmunt Dolf Hahn EK2 EK1 HHO PLM AO
72 confirmed kills
Awaiting two claim confirmations

No word on the two claims from yesterday.
Zygmunt and his Schwarm have been sent to destroy an enemy observation balloon near Ypres. They took the gasbag down with no enemy interruption or any other incidents.

17 October, 1917 15:25 afternoon mission
Ceurne, Flanders Sector
Jasta 36
Oberleutnant Zygmunt Dolf Hahn EK2 EK1 HHO PLM AO
72 confirmed kills
Awaiting two claim confirmations

Their patrol route took Ziggy’s Schwarm along the Front lines near Halluin. There they were attacked by a flight of Camels. After an inconclusive and protracted circling around the Camels grew tired of this stalemate and decided to leave the party. One of them was unfortunate enough to find Hahn’s Albatros between himself and his freedom. He was being pursued by one of the von Bülow brothers and with Ziggy waiting for him, the Englander had little chance of getting away. Zygmunt took turns with his wingman until the Camel nosed over and crashed into the mud.

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."
#4541300 - 10/18/20 04:31 PM Re: Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018) [Re: Raine]  
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carrick58 Offline
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Marcel Jules Gilbare
Adjutant
ESC. 73, GC12
Les Storks
Dunkerque
1 Victory
5 Unconfirmed

Sep 18, 1917.

1st Section had Escort so 2 section (5 a/c) was assigned to attack a Boche AF. Mon Dieu, what a thrill ride catching Ground fire then the rush of the dive and the sound of Mg's popping off. On Zee second target run as I zoomed up, I spotted a truck Convoy heading for the front. Ah too much to resist. I kicked the rudder and made a shallow pass at the Road bound columns. Rat- a- Tat went my Mg getting off 3 strings 13, 20, and 23 rds at the trucks. Pulling up , I noticed that I was all alone deep in the enemy Area so I went home. Landed with 77 rds left in Zee Vickers.

Attached Files CFS3 2020-10-18 08-57-44-57.jpgCFS3 2020-10-18 09-00-59-54.jpgCFS3 2020-10-18 09-01-14-71.jpgCFS3 2020-10-18 09-04-48-36.jpg
#4541324 - 10/18/20 08:25 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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Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 3,696
Ajax, ON
18 October, 1917 08:45
Ceurne, Flanders Sector
Jasta 36
Oberleutnant Zygmunt Dolf Hahn EK2 EK1 HHO PLM AO
74 confirmed kills

One of the Camels from the fight over Lille the day before and the one from yesterday have been confirmed.
It looked like the weather this morning would be pleasant. The Schwarm was up and enjoying the sun’s rays. Zygmunt had an additional wool sweater on. Despite the bright sun, the air was noticeably colder. They were over Menen, when they noticed Flak nearby. Good thing, otherwise they’d be easily bounced by the marauding SPADs. One of them was coming at them right now. Hahn followed and after firing a handful of Spandau rounds, the French machine went into a dive. Ziggy was still impressed how well this machine handled those high speed, nearly vertical dives and never shed their wings. What he could do with a plane like this! He didn’t dare to follow the SPAD in his dive, he only observed and would react once the enemy plane levelled out and began his run for the lines. Sometimes he would catch them in a shallower dive, but sometimes the speed of the French crates was so great that there was no way of catching them even while diving. Zygmunt didn’t have to find out if he would catch this one. The SPAD never levelled out. There was a weak attempt, but ended up in falling further down out of control and crashing in a field. He must have cut the control cables, or this particular SPAD wasn’t that formidable in a dive.
It only took a few seconds to spot another one of those French devils chasing one of Ziggy’s wingmen. Hahn was on him in an instant and clearing his mates tail. He continued to pursue the fast biplane, damaging it at each opportunity the SPAD crossed his sights. Finally the Franzose conceded defeat by placing his damaged plane in a dive, which usually was enough to get away. Not this time. The Albatros kept up with the other machine and easily finished the job. After the second SPAD went down and making sure no other foes were lurking around, Zygmunt gave the signal to regroup and return. He needed to get down quickly. His extra sweater was soaked in sweat keeping Ziggy trembling from cold.
Once on the ground, Zygmunt noticed great amount of commotion around the hangars. Still while circling the aerodrome they all could see a long convoy sitting on the side of the road leading to the airfield. It was laden with large crates. Ziggy was annoyed he was always the last one to learn of matters concerning his aerodrome. Disregarding his uncomfortably wet gear, he marched over to where Feldwebel Blasen was standing, enthusiastically discussing something with a civilian. The man seemed familiar somehow. He paused for a second and then it dawned on him. He recognized him from the newspapers. It was Anthony Fokker.

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."
#4541381 - 10/19/20 12:06 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
.

Fullofit - Ooo, intrigue at Ziggy's aerodrome. What is Mr. Fokker doing there, and what of all these mysterious crates? Inquiring minds want to know.


Now, to my fellow:

Captain Frederick Abbott, on the morning of the 15th, loaded up his kit into the AC, (actually it was Joseph, the footman, who loaded it for him), and shortly thereafter Mr. Pearson, along with the rest of the staff, sent Freddy on his way with best wishes and waves of goodbye. Lilian stood at the door and looked on, offering a outwardly indifferent wave of her own. It was a short, brisk hour's drive to Throwley where Freddy introduced himself, in his usual jovial and smiling way, to the CO and officers and men of 65 Squadron. After being shown to his quarters, which was a private room in one of the Nissan huts shared by all the flight leaders, he unpacked his kit and discovered that Mr. Pearson had secured for him two bottles of 8-year-old scotch from the manor's liquor cabinet - most thoughtful! Freddy would share one of them that evening in the mess after dinner, and save the other for sometime later. But before any of that he had to go see his new mount - the Sopwith Camel! It was a wondrous thing, and the one provided to the freshly decorated Captain was brand spanking new, having arrived two days earlier from the factory. The AMs had it tuned up, trimmed up, and ready for Freddy's inspection and test flight, which he took immediately. It was a bit tricky at first to get use to, in particular after flying the Bristol for the last three months, but it did not take him long to get a good feel for the new kite's idiosyncrasies and twitchiness. He was in love all over again! However, what he was not in love with was the location of the squadron's field. With scads of open land all around, what mindless idiot chose a plot with a large, old stone church directly at the far end of the runway?!


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