Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!
January 2002
Thursday, January 31, 2002
Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!
Missing Links, the Internet's premier modelling website and Battlefront.com, home of superior war and strategy games, announce a unique contest for all WWII vehicle modellers. Send in pictures of your own best WWII vehicle models, and you might find them featured in Battlefront.com's new 3D World War Two computer wargame simulation - Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin! The main prize is a $300 Smart Jet air compressor from Iwata! And YOUR name in the game credits!
„Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin covers ground combat on the Eastern Front from 1941-1945,” says Steven Grammont, Vice President of Battlefront.com. “That means a lot of vehicles which all will be modelled in high-resolution 3D, from the famous Russian T-34s to the largely unknown Finnish, Italian, Hungarian, and Romanian vehicles. So why not give all those skilled modellers out there the chance to see their own favorite tank in real combat action – and their name in the credits!”
Modellers can send in pictures of their best works to modelcontest@battlefront.com. These will then be converted by Battlefront.com’s graphics artist into in-game models and textures, complete with all the details. Ever wanted to see that fantastic KV-1 model you made in real 3D combat? This is your chance!
Runner-up prizes include hand-drawn tank posters by artist John Smith VIII, as well as 10 free copies of Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin. For more details, visit www.missing-lynx.com or go directly to www.battlefront.com/Model_Contest/Model_contest.html.
Background information:
Combat Mission is Battlefront.com’s award-winning 3D tactical WWII combat simulation, available for the Mac and PC. Sold over the internet from Battlefront.com, it has set a new standard for historically accurate wargames with its true 3D environment and paused real-time action.
Missing Links is the internet’s premier military modelling website, offering reviews, discussion groups, and how-to guides to a large military vehicle modelling community.
Wednesday, January 30, 2002
January 31, 1945
Pacific, Philippines-
Elements of the US 11th Airborne Division go ashore at Nasugbu Bay against little Japanese resistance. The US troops land just 50 miles (80 km) southwest of the capital Manila, which is their ultimate objective.
The Return of the Hetzer!
Dan is back in action:
'Thanks to some maintenance done by Dreamwater.net, I am now able to upload things onto my site again. Sorry again for any inconvenience caused!'
Tuesday, January 29, 2002
Come Together
Yobobo has the right idea:
"We have just launched a banner exchange program.
The idea is to get as many fan sites exposed through out the CM, and wargame communities. As this is new, right now only a few banners will show up. But as the banner exchange grows so will your hits. How many CM fan sites are out there?! Let's drive more traffic to all of 'em!
Here is the link if you are interested:
http://tournamenthouse.com/banner/ads/ads_admin.cgi
Rob McKay
www.tournamenthouse.com/CM/
www.thforums.com/board/"
January 30, 1942
Far East, Singapore-
Retreating British and Commonwealth troops cross the Johore Strait, separating Singapore from the mainland, and partly destroy the connecting causeway. They abandon the rest of the Malayan Peninsula, where mobile Japanese units have constantly outwitted them. Singapore is designed to repel a naval attack. Its great guns have no suitable shells for bombarding land forces as the British believe that a land invasion through dense jungle is impossible, although the RAF has asked for more aircraft to meet a land attack from the north.
A Mystery Guest!
PawBroon gets the day started with a bang:
"Roight! So, I have no social life whatsoever, and am thus updating this site again.
Today's goodies are a bunch of Exclusive Sneak Peaks of that Battle of the Bulge MOD by the famed Thomas Klimisch. Beta Testing of that long-awaited MOD is going along smoothly, and I can tell you that it would well be worth the wait...
And now for something completely different...Well, maybe not, it might give you a chill actually...Deanco submitted something! It's neither a MOD nor a pic. He decided to have a go at an article about Applicationism. I want to thank him for being the first ever to have contributed something to MODs & MODers. Considering he is an American who settled in Paris a few years back, this article might hint seriously to the fact that my weird humour has nothing to do about me being French, but rather with the fact that there must be something in our tap water. Check it out and remember that I will be pleading not guilty.
Once again you'll find a review of the different MODs available but for the Hetzer this time. The previous one about the Churchill has been updated to include Gordon Molek's latest Camo job which was forgotten. I guess it's a proof that some of you are using that Feedback button.
Speaking of Feedback, thanks to all of you who took some time to drop me an email about M&M..."
January 29, 1941
Africa, Italian Somaliland-
British forces based in Kenya led by General Sir Alan Cunningham begin attacking the Italian colony's garrison in the next stage of their campaign against Italian East Africa.
Politics, United States-
A significant advance in Anglo-US cooperation begins with staff talks in Washington. A decision, code-named ABC1, is eventually made that places Germany's defeat as the principal Allied aim in the event of the US declaring war. These talks lead to a US mission in March to visit potential sites for military bases in Britain.
Monday, January 28, 2002
Can't Get There from Here
Panzerman has the latest:
"Just a small update today. First a little more on the scenario I told you about before (See January 16th update, in Old News section for the older information on it). The scenairo is called "There's Only One Way to Get There." It's a hard-fought battle in bocage country in and around a French city....
To get the rest of the news head on over to the Scenario Zone.
Rob (aka Panzerman)"
Two brand new Mods by Andrew Fox!
One of my personal favourite modders, Andrew Fox, is back in business again. This time out Andrew has produced some stunning Daimler AC's and Jeeps that i can highly recommend you d/l. The Daimler comes with two paint schemes to choose from: either "Plain Green", or "Mickey Mouse", while the Jeep is kitted out with "Mickey Mouse Ears" camouflage and options to switch between either "clean" or "very dirty" windshields. Top quality stuff! Thanks Foxy.
Direct Link: Go Get Em' Soldier!Sunday, January 27, 2002
No Land across the Volga
Here is an excerpt from "The Battle of Stalingrad - 55 Years On:"
"On October 14, Paulus launched a major offensive to crush the Soviets still holding out around the tractor factory and the Red October factory. General Chuikov who was in command of these men, the 62nd Soviet Army, described the German onslaught.
"That morning you could not hear the separate shots or explosions: the whole merged into one continuous deafening roar." With their backs to the river Chuikov attempted to inspire his men to hold out with the words: "There is no land across the Volga." For those who did not get the message, firing squads dealt with the deserters, hundreds of whom were shot."
January 28, 1945
Western Front, Ardennes-
The last vestiges of the German "bulge" in the Ardennes are wiped out. The total cost of the Germans in manpower for their Ardennes offensive has been 100,000 killed, wounded, and captured. The Americans have lost 81,000 killed, wounded, or captured, and the British 1400. Both sides have lost heavily in hardware - up to 800 tanks on each side. The Germans have also lost around 1000 aircraft. However, whereas the Americans can make good their losses in just a few weeks, for the Germans the military losses are irreplaceable.
Saturday, January 26, 2002
January 27, 1945
Eastern Front, Poland-
The Red Army liberates the Nazi death camp at Auschwitz. The SS has evacuated the camp nine days previously, taking 20,000 weak inmates with them. Those left number a few hundred disease-ridden inmates in the camp's hospital block.
Far East, Burma-
Units of the Allied Y Force, pushing across the Shweli River at Wanting, reopen the Burma Road supply route into China.
The Truth about the Wacky One
PawBroon has a little bit of everything:
"There are serious clues about the fact that Captain Wacky's personal idol might be Scipio. First the guy release sound MODs and then he jumps straight at MODing uniforms. Nice thing is that those can be swapped in a breeze with CMMOS.
On the AFV front, Marco Bergman's TDs are going along nicely. Take a good look at the guns, and as usual, pay attention to the details. Check them all in Incoming.
There is also a new review of the different MODs available for the Churchill. Those are in MODs.
Please remember to join me in thanking those who are improving our gaming pleasure.
PawBroon"
And Then There Were Five
It appears they're multiplying at Battlfront.com again:
"Folks!
As I am sure you can tell, Battlefront has been taking the hard earned money you folks have shelled out for our games today and putting it to work making even better games tomorrow. On January 1st, 2002 we furthered this cause by hiring our 5th full time staff member. Who is the new sucker... er... valued member of our staff? Most of you know him as "Moon", but we know him as Martin Turewicz.
Martin has been unofficially working with us for about 2 years now. During this time he helped us in no small way get CMBO out the door and later to make it the success that it is now. Eventually it became clear to Martin that working for us was more fun and rewarding than any other job he could find So after rejecting our initial minimum wage offer (kidding!), he accepted our offer to become the new President of Battlefront.com. Now that you all know this, feel free to blame him for anything that goes wrong instead of me because I demoted myself to Vice President and therefore am not responsible for stuff that goes wrong. However, as co-designer I am still very much responsible for stuff that goes right
Seriously, we found that the business side of things was consuming more and more of Charles and, in particular, my time. Even more importantly, as good as Charles and I are in terms of running a successful company, our time is far better utilized making games than figuring out advertising strategies and the like. I'm sure you would all rather a better game than a better string of banner ads And that is why we have been coaxing, cajoling, and bribing Martin to come aboard for 2 years!
So let's hear a nice round of applause for the latest whipping boy! Hip-hip...
Thanks,
Steve"
To reach the post-announcement discussion, click the link below.
A Few Small Repairs
Dan is having some troubles:
'Due to difficulties with my site's host, I am unable to update my site. I will let you all know when I have got it back up and running, and in the mean time I appologise for any inconvenience caused.'
January 26, 1942
Western Front, Britain-
The first US troop convoy of the war reaches Britain.
Sea War, Far East-
Several Japanese troop ships off Malaya are struck by 68 British aircraft, of which 13 are lost. That night, the British increase their attacks. The destroyer Thanet and the Australian destroyer Vampire are sunk while attacking the Japanese convoy.
Friday, January 25, 2002
The CMMOS StuG Collection
A small batch of German StuG's are the latest CMMOS releases we have for you today - featuring Mono and Tricolor camo schemes by Fernando, and a "hasty" version from Gordon Molek. Thanks to both guys for helping to keep us well fed with CMMOS goodies over these past winter months.
Direct Link: Download Your CMMOS StuG's HereThursday, January 24, 2002
More Candid Photography!
New Model Submission Pictures for Vehicle Modelling Contest Posted!
Some new model submission pictures and a new In-Game shot have been posted for our WWII Vehicle Modelling Contest. Click here to go right to our contest webpage.
Wednesday, January 23, 2002
Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!
Missing Links, the Internet's premier modelling website and Battlefront.com, home of superior war and strategy games, announce a unique contest for all WWII vehicle modellers. Send in pictures of your own best WWII vehicle models, and you might find them featured in Battlefront.com's new 3D World War Two computer wargame simulation - Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin! The main prize is a $300 Smart Jet air compressor from Iwata! And YOUR name in the game credits!
„Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin covers ground combat on the Eastern Front from 1941-1945,” says Steven Grammont, Vice President of Battlefront.com. “That means a lot of vehicles which all will be modelled in high-resolution 3D, from the famous Russian T-34s to the largely unknown Finnish, Italian, Hungarian, and Romanian vehicles. So why not give all those skilled modellers out there the chance to see their own favorite tank in real combat action – and their name in the credits!”
Modellers can send in pictures of their best works to modelcontest@battlefront.com. These will then be converted by Battlefront.com’s graphics artist into in-game models and textures, complete with all the details. Ever wanted to see that fantastic KV-1 model you made in real 3D combat? This is your chance!
Runner-up prizes include hand-drawn tank posters by artist John Smith VIII, as well as 10 free copies of Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin. For more details, visit www.missing-lynx.com or go directly to www.battlefront.com/Model_Contest/Model_contest.html.
Background information:
Combat Mission is Battlefront.com’s award-winning 3D tactical WWII combat simulation, available for the Mac and PC. Sold over the internet from Battlefront.com, it has set a new standard for historically accurate wargames with its true 3D environment and paused real-time action.
Missing Links is the internet’s premier military modelling website, offering reviews, discussion groups, and how-to guides to a large military vehicle modelling community.
January 24, 1941
Africa, Libya-
The British 4th Armored Brigade engages Italian tanks near Mechili. The Italian forces in Libya are now divided, with units inland positioned around Mechili, and other forces on the coast around Derna. They do not support each other and both face encirclement.
He's out of the Gate!
The exclusive scoop from PawBroon:
"Today's champion would be a certain Thomas Klimisch. While still a Work In Progress, his MOD has all the characteristics of what should be a Major Power Steering. After having played scores of winter games in what could only be Alaska, Tom's MOD would most certainly be refreshing... Now you people can stop BUMPing his Thread since he has lost sleep over it already. Instead, go click on the previews, and remember to join me in thanking Tom for having sent those exclusive sneaks for MODs & MODers.
As a side note, MODs & MODers has been changed a little. What was NEWS is ABOUT, what was INCOMING is NEWS and what was illegal still is. Now you'll have to read it all over again.
Remember what Nostradamus said about Chaos, "If a French butterfly updates its web site in Paris, all of the buggers who linked to some pics would have to try harder".
That should keep you on your toes...
PawBroon"
January 23, 1945
Eastern Front, East Prussia-
The Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front cuts all road and rail crossings across the Vistula River, isolating German units on the east bank.
Eastern Front, Poland-
The Soviet Second Guards Tank Army, part of the 1st Belorussian Front, storms the fortified town of Bromberg, an important strongpoint in the German Poznan Line.
Tuesday, January 22, 2002
A Call to (Small) Arms!
Madmatt decided to clear up a little something that has been added in CMBB:
"Crews now have a (minimal) small-arms short-range self-defense capability!
The TacAI will take care of this for you, so you can't give them your own small arms targeting orders. As we have said before it's a MINIMAL self defense ability but it's better than nothing.
This capability has been extended to ALL crewed units and teams (note: MG teams don't get secondary small arms they got that nice big MG to keep them warm afterall). That's PaK crews, mortar crews, FO's, Vlad and his Holy Avenger Flamethrower (although he would probably be more prone to zap the boogies with his FT), Dieter and his trusty 'Shreck, and the works!
Bailed vehicle crews still have their pistols, as before, of course.
The self defense range is pretty limited (maximum of 100 meters or so) and the firepower rating is very small, (probably less than the FP rating of single rifle per man) and their ROF is much much slower than a dedicated rifleman.
It's a purely self defense mechanism, so don't expect miracles. But it does give them a little bite."
Mensch's Monday Madness
Mensch has more goodies for all:
"UPDATE!
We have for you a new mod from Hugo-a Panther A from 12 SS Panzer Division.
A new Hosted Byte Battle from Moriarty-Last Chance at Caen.
Also a new mod from David Singer-the U.S. Halftrack.
A map from Bill Carey-Lines of Transit.
Berli has cleaned up his A Long and Bloody Mile. Apparently he smoothed out some water areas.
And Finally, I just got an email from Hugo (Mr. Panther himself); he
wrote me he'll have for me a Panther A from 5th SS PanzerDivision «VIKING». You'll see that up at der Kessel tomorrow! So stay tuned!
Enjoy!
Menschy"
Monday, January 21, 2002
January 22, 1942
Eastern Front, Soviet Union-
The besieged city of Leningrad evacuates 440,000 citizens over 50 days. Thousands are dying of starvation, typhus, and other diseases due to inadequate supplies reaching the city and the German shelling and bombing.
January 21, 1943
Pacific, Papua New Guinea-
After capturing Sanananda in New Guinea, the Allies prepare to advance northwestward to clear the Japanese from Salamua and Lae. Allied control of the sea and air around Papua New Guinea will force the Japanese finally to abandon the island.
Sunday, January 20, 2002
CMMOS V3.01 Unleashed!
Gordon Molek has released the latest version of his popular CMBO Mod Swapping Utility, CMMOS. Featuring bug fixes and code tweaks, this latest release also adds the long awaited German Armor to the CMMOS arsenal.
We also have over 25 German AFV mods from the likes of Fernando, Makjager and Gordon himself, to accompany what is, the latest, and greatest CMMOS version yet.
Saturday, January 19, 2002
January 20, 1942
Final Solution, Germany-
At the Wannsee Conference, Berlin, deputy head of the SS Reinhard Heidrich reveals his plans for the "Final Solution" to the so-called "Jewish problem." Heidrich receives permission to begin deporting all Jews in German-controlled areas to Eastern Europe to face either forced labor or extermination. The killing of Jews in Eastern Europe is already commonplace. Execution by shooting, however, is proving inefficient and a strain for the troops engaged. A more effecient way of killing using poison gas will soon become widespread.
Sea War, Pacific-
In Japan's ongoing offensive against Allied possessions in the Far East, four carriers begin air strikes on Rabaul, New Britain (soon to become a major Japanese naval base), and two submarines shell Midway Island. US and Australian warships sink a Japanese submarine off Darwin. Japanese amphibious landings are made at Borneo, New Ireland, and the Solomons on the 23rd.
Friday, January 18, 2002
January 19, 1941
Africa, Eritrea-
British forces in the Sudan, led by General William Platt, begin attacking Italian forces, heralding the start of General Sir Archibald Wavell's campaign against Italian East Africa.
The Race Is On!
Some light reading from Ralph Zuljan:
"In April 1945 there was little doubt in the Allied camp about ultimate victory over the Third Reich. For Stalin and the Soviet Union the only real goal now was to capture Berlin before the western Allies got there. Stalin was painfully aware of the limited resistance the Allies were meeting in their advance and he knew how desperately the Germans fought against his forces on the Eastern Front. Eisenhower's assurance that there would be no western drive on Berlin merely made Stalin more suspicious of his allies' intentions..."
Thursday, January 17, 2002
January 18, 1943
Eastern Front, Poland-
Jewish fighters in the Warsaw Ghetto begin attacking German troops. Resistance was triggered by the resumption of deportations to extermination camps, which had been suspended since October 1942.
January 17, 1942
Africa, Libya-
The Axis garrison at Halfaya, besieged throughout the British Operation Crusader, finally falls and 5500 Germans and Italians are captured.
Sea War, Arctic-
U-boats make their first attack on an Allied Arctic convoy. U-454 sinks the destroyer Matabele and a merchant ship from convoy PQ-8.
Wednesday, January 16, 2002
Touching Base
Panzerman never rests:
"It's been over a week since I have done an update so I thought I would tell you what we have been up to for the last little wile.
I am working on a new scenario, which is fictional, that takes place somewhere in the American sector of Normandy during the first few days of Overlord...
For the rest of the news head on over to the Scenario Zone.
Panzerman"
Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!
Missing Links, the Internet's premier modelling website and Battlefront.com, home of superior war and strategy games, announce a unique contest for all WWII vehicle modellers. Send in pictures of your own best WWII vehicle models, and you might find them featured in Battlefront.com's new 3D World War Two computer wargame simulation - Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin! The main prize is a $300 Smart Jet air compressor from Iwata! And YOUR name in the game credits!
„Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin covers ground combat on the Eastern Front from 1941-1945,” says Steven Grammont, Vice President of Battlefront.com. “That means a lot of vehicles which all will be modelled in high-resolution 3D, from the famous Russian T-34s to the largely unknown Finnish, Italian, Hungarian, and Romanian vehicles. So why not give all those skilled modellers out there the chance to see their own favorite tank in real combat action – and their name in the credits!”
Modellers can send in pictures of their best works to modelcontest@battlefront.com. These will then be converted by Battlefront.com’s graphics artist into in-game models and textures, complete with all the details. Ever wanted to see that fantastic KV-1 model you made in real 3D combat? This is your chance!
Runner-up prizes include hand-drawn tank posters by artist John Smith VIII, as well as 10 free copies of Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin. For more details, visit www.missing-lynx.com or go directly to www.battlefront.com/Model_Contest/Model_contest.html.
Background information:
Combat Mission is Battlefront.com’s award-winning 3D tactical WWII combat simulation, available for the Mac and PC. Sold over the internet from Battlefront.com, it has set a new standard for historically accurate wargames with its true 3D environment and paused real-time action.
Missing Links is the internet’s premier military modelling website, offering reviews, discussion groups, and how-to guides to a large military vehicle modelling community.
Tuesday, January 15, 2002
January 16, 1945
Far East, Burma-
In the north of the country, General Daniel Sultan's Chinese New First Army occupies Namhkan. The last Japanese positions threatening the Burma Road have been eradicated.
January 15, 1943
Africa, Libya-
The British Eighth Army attacks Field Marshal Erwin Rommel's forces at Buerat and pursues them to the Homs and Tarhuna area, approximately 100 miles (150 km) from Tripoli, the capital. British forces reach Homs on the 19th, and Rommel resumes his retreat toward Tunisia. Although Rommel has been ordered to defend Tripoli, he decides to save his troops and abandons the city on the 22nd to make a stand around Mareth.
Monday, January 14, 2002
You Oughta Be in Pictures!
Madmatt has more eye candy to share:
"New Model Submission Pictures for Vehicle Modelling Contest Posted!
Some new model submission pictures have been posted for our WWII Vehicle Modelling Contest. Click the link below to go right to our contest webpage."
Back from the Dead!
Mensch returns with a surprise:
"Updates a plenty!!
Small changes to two Byte Battles from Germanboy: «Bure» and «Glosters Go East». Germanboy made some changes from some great input he got at the super site, Combat Mission Scenario Depot. Keep up the reviews!
A New Hi-Res mod(s) from Feldgrau: Churchill Series Tanks - Mk. VI, VII, VIII, Crocodile, & AVRE in CMMOS format.
Our Hosted Byte Battle «The Crossroads» by Moriarty has been updated to v2.00.
Two Byte Battles from Germanboy called «The Farm» and «Para Recon in Force». There goes the idea of getting some home fixing work done this week. =)
Again From Germangoy (busy Beaver, he is) managed two Scenarios: a historical battle «Le Plessis Grimoult» and a semi-historical battle «Hasselt».
A Combat Mission Map «Snapshot» by Moriarty for all those basement designers too busy to make your own map!
Also Germanboy ended the busy month with a book review of «A Colonel in the Armored Divisions: A Memoir, 1941-1945».
Enjoy!
-Die Sturmgruppe"
Sunday, January 13, 2002
January 14, 1940
Politics, Japan-
Admiral Mitsumasa Yonai forms a new government in Japan after the resignation of Prime Minister Noboyuki Abe's cabinet. Yonai's government, however, provokes opposition from the prowar military hierarchy.
The Beginning of the End
Some interesting reading from About World War II:
"...Despite the initial large-scale battles of encirclement at Bialystok-Minsk and Smolensk, it became apparent that the Germans were mistaken in their low opinion of the Soviet military potential. The Red Army's will to defend and readiness to perform remained unbroken. With increasing frequency, the Wehrmacht had to ward off vigorous counter-attacks. In August, Goebbels and Hitler admitted that they had 'obviously underestimated completely Soviet striking power and, above all, the equipment of the Soviet Union'..."
Saturday, January 12, 2002
January 13, 1942
Politics, Allies-
At a London meeting, the Allies agree to punish Axis leaders responsible for war crimes.
Sea War, Atlantic-
Germany's U-boats launch attacks, code-named Operation Drum Roll, on shipping off the east coast of the United States. Approximately 20 ships are sunk in the first month of operations as a result of the US Navy's failure to take proper antisubmarine measures, despite British warnings. U-boats begin hunting in the Caribbean the following month.
Friday, January 11, 2002
January 12, 1942
Politices, Yugoslavia-
General Dusan Simovic resigns as prime minister of the Yugoslavian government-in-exile. Professor Yovanovic replaces him.
Africa, Libya-
General Erwin Rommel agrees to a plan proposed by his officers to counterattack the Allies. British naval strength in the Mediterranean has been eroded, which has enabled new German supplies to arrive. At the same time, Allied forces have suffered the departure of the 7th Armored Brigade plus two Australian divisions, which have been sent to the Far East.
He Just Keeps it Comin'!
Dan has the much-anticipated scenario ready:
'Now available: 'Search and Destroy,' the explosive scenario in a desolate town! Only at Dan's CM Site!'
Thursday, January 10, 2002
We Whistle While We Work...
Mr. Dorosh has hatched another one:
"A new sound mod for CM at CANUCK; after extensive playtesting, I figured - why not? Two sound mods, one for Allied whistles and one for German whistles, to replace the "Let's Go" type sound mods. These are specifically British, to replace any of the files 6000 - 6008, and the German one to replace 2000 - 2007. Could also be used for Canadian/GI., Polish, or French by inserting in the appropriate spot.
and look under Sound Mods."
January 11, 1944
Politics, Italy-
Count Galeazzo Ciano, the former Italian foreign secretary and Mussolini's son-in-law, is executed by firing squad in Verona. His "crime" was to have voted with other fascists to oust Mussolini in July 1943. Ciano and his wife had been lured to Bavaria in August 1943 following a report that their children were in danger. Having been promised safe pasage to Spain, they were handed over to Italy's puppet fascist government.
January 10, 1943
Eastern Front, Caucasus-
Soviet attacks from the north, south, and east of Stalingrad split Germany's Sixth Army into pockets and isolate them from any sort of relief. Axis forces across southern Russia are under intense pressure.
Tuesday, January 8, 2002
Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!
Missing Links, the Internet's premier modelling website and Battlefront.com, home of superior war and strategy games, announce a unique contest for all WWII vehicle modellers. Send in pictures of your own best WWII vehicle models, and you might find them featured in Battlefront.com's new 3D World War Two computer wargame simulation - Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin! The main prize is a $300 Smart Jet air compressor from Iwata! And YOUR name in the game credits!
„Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin covers ground combat on the Eastern Front from 1941-1945,” says Steven Grammont, Vice President of Battlefront.com. “That means a lot of vehicles which all will be modelled in high-resolution 3D, from the famous Russian T-34s to the largely unknown Finnish, Italian, Hungarian, and Romanian vehicles. So why not give all those skilled modellers out there the chance to see their own favorite tank in real combat action – and their name in the credits!”
Modellers can send in pictures of their best works to modelcontest@battlefront.com. These will then be converted by Battlefront.com’s graphics artist into in-game models and textures, complete with all the details. Ever wanted to see that fantastic KV-1 model you made in real 3D combat? This is your chance!
Runner-up prizes include hand-drawn tank posters by artist John Smith VIII, as well as 10 free copies of Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin. For more details, visit www.missing-lynx.com or go directly to www.battlefront.com/Model_Contest/Model_contest.html.
Background information:
Combat Mission is Battlefront.com’s award-winning 3D tactical WWII combat simulation, available for the Mac and PC. Sold over the internet from Battlefront.com, it has set a new standard for historically accurate wargames with its true 3D environment and paused real-time action.
Missing Links is the internet’s premier military modelling website, offering reviews, discussion groups, and how-to guides to a large military vehicle modelling community.
January 9, 1943
Politics, China-
The Japanese puppet government declares war on both Britain and the United States.
Monday, January 7, 2002
January 8, 1940
Winter War, Finland-Soviet losses mount in Finland: more than 27,500 men are lost at Suomusalmi. Few Russian troops are good skiers (training manuals accompany non-skiers on the battlefield!). General Timoshenko's arrival brings new order to the chaos, but the Finns are still achieving successes out of all proportion to their numerical strength.
Western Front, England-
Food rationing is introduced in Great Britain; France shortly follows suit.
Let's Be Direct
Dan is on the ball:
"Finally, you can directly download scenarios from Dan's CM site! Take a look now!"
Sunday, January 6, 2002
January 7, 1945
Eastern Front, Hungary-
German forces capture Esztergom, northwest of Budapest, a Nazi National Redoubt, in their attempt to relieve the garrison in the capital.
More Tweaks
Panzerman is a bear for details:
"Well, I am sorry for the problems with briefings, all. This issue has finally been fixed. Sorry it took so long. Thanks to those of you who emailed me. The [Rhineland] Pack is updated to version 1.2 and all the updated battles are at the Scenario Depot, as well as The Scenario Zone.
Panzerman"
January 6, 1943
Politics, Germany-
Admiral Erich Raeder resigns as commander-in-chief of naval forces following the blunders made at the Battle of the Barents Sea in December. Admiral Karl Doenitz replaces him.
Saturday, January 5, 2002
A Few Small Repairs
Panzerman is the handyman:
"Just a little update for you all today.
The known issue with the scenario Door to Door has been fixed. Due to this, the release of version 1.1 of the Rhineland Pack has occurred. You can get it at The Scenario Zone, or get the individual battles at the Scenario Depot.
Well, that last bit gives away what I am about to say, but all the
scenarios in the pack are now at the Scenario Depot. Well, that's all for now.
Panzerman"
A New Welcome Mat(t)!
Matt has had a lot of free time lately, so he decided it would be a good time to spruce up the home page of Battlefront.com. Hit the link below to check out the new look. If you direct your attention to the lower right-hand corner of the page, you'll see things are getting closer to the release of a certain something.
Snowball Fight!
More good stuff from Dan:
'New in at Dan's CM site: 'Mayhem in the Snow!' Set in the Ardennes, this is a battle for some small village with an important road through it! Out now!'
January 5, 1942
Eastern Front, Soviet Union-
Joseph Stalin orders a general offensive against the German invaders, despite warnings from General Georgi Zhukov, the Western Front commander, that the Soviet Union lacks the resources for an attack on four fronts (Leningrad, Moscow, Ukraine, and Crimea). Zhukov advocates a concentrated attack against Army Group Center, which is threatening Moscow. However, the general offensive initially makes considerable inroads and captures trains, food, and munitions. German forces offer stiff resistance and are ordered to hold their positions. They set up defensive areas ("Hedgehogs") that frustrate the Red Army's attacks.
Friday, January 4, 2002
Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!
Missing Links, the Internet's premier modelling website and Battlefront.com, home of superior war and strategy games, announce a unique contest for all WWII vehicle modellers. Send in pictures of your own best WWII vehicle models, and you might find them featured in Battlefront.com's new 3D World War Two computer wargame simulation - Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin! The main prize is a $300 Smart Jet air compressor from Iwata! And YOUR name in the game credits!
„Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin covers ground combat on the Eastern Front from 1941-1945,” says Steven Grammont, Vice President of Battlefront.com. “That means a lot of vehicles which all will be modelled in high-resolution 3D, from the famous Russian T-34s to the largely unknown Finnish, Italian, Hungarian, and Romanian vehicles. So why not give all those skilled modellers out there the chance to see their own favorite tank in real combat action – and their name in the credits!”
Modellers can send in pictures of their best works to modelcontest@battlefront.com. These will then be converted by Battlefront.com’s graphics artist into in-game models and textures, complete with all the details. Ever wanted to see that fantastic KV-1 model you made in real 3D combat? This is your chance!
Runner-up prizes include hand-drawn tank posters by artist John Smith VIII, as well as 10 free copies of Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin. For more details, visit www.missing-lynx.com or go directly to www.battlefront.com/Model_Contest/Model_contest.html.
Background information:
Combat Mission is Battlefront.com’s award-winning 3D tactical WWII combat simulation, available for the Mac and PC. Sold over the internet from Battlefront.com, it has set a new standard for historically accurate wargames with its true 3D environment and paused real-time action.
Missing Links is the internet’s premier military modelling website, offering reviews, discussion groups, and how-to guides to a large military vehicle modelling community.
The Big Day Has Arrived!
Panzerman delivers the goods again:
"Today is the day that many of you have been waiting for, the release of the Rhineland Battle Pack! The Rhineland Battle Pack includes the following: ten scenarios; the orders-of-battle for Operations Veritable, Grenade, Plunder, and Varsity; and finally, acknowledgements and a list of the battles.
All the files are in PDF (you will need the Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.5 or higher), Word, and Simple text (for Mac users without Adobe Acrobat or Word).
Now, for a little on what we will be working on next. We have decided to work on single battles, till CMBB come out. Well, that's all for today.
Panzerman"
The New Kid in Town
Dan has a new site he'd like to share:
"Dan's CMBO Site:
Includes scenarios, links, pictures and more!
Take a look!"
Thursday, January 3, 2002
January 4, 1944
Espionage, Europe-
Operation Carpetbagger - regular airborne supply drops to resistance groups in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Italy - begins.
January 3, 1941
Africa, Libya-
General Sir Archibald Wavell's Middle East Force, renamed XIII Corps, with air and naval support, resumes its offensive into Cyrenaica. In Australia's first land action of the war, the Australian 6th Division leads the attack to capture Bardia, just across Libya's border with Egypt, on the 15th. Some 70,000 Italians, plus large amounts of equipment, are captured.
Wednesday, January 2, 2002
Abominable Snow Texture Mod Released
Juju and Tanks a lot have been busy little beavers this holiday season rushing to put the finishing touches on their latest concoction. Okay, basically I sat on my lazy ass for two weeks and didn't get it posted until now. But, we aren't here to point the the finger of blame, we are here to get our New Years Resolution for Mod Whoredom fulfilled and that's what we are going to do. Weighing in at a respectable 9 megs this mod pack of all new Winter textures will be a fine addition to your Combat Mission winter battle enjoyment. Check it out!
Direct Link: Terrain Mods Page
A Moving Target
Mike Dorosh keeps moving things around:
"That's right, yet another of my websites has moved to a new server. Because Freeservers Sucks, GD for CM (the very first website devoted to CM2/CMBB) has moved to new digs at
http://members.shaw.ca/grossdeutschland/
Along with this move comes an overhaul of the layout and colour scheme, as well as some new info on German uniforms and German vehicle markings. By the time CMBB comes out, I hope to have a fairly complete history of the GD Regiment/Division online."
January 2, 1941
Politics, United States-
President Franklin D. Roosevelt announces a program to produce 200 freighters, called "Liberty" ships, to support the Allied Atlantic convoys.