March 2002
Sunday, March 31, 2002
April 1, 1945
Pacific, Okinawa-
Operation Iceberg, the US invasion of the island, commences. Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, commander-in-chief Pacific Fleet and Pacific Ocean areas, has assigned Vice Admiral Richmond Turner as commander of the amphibious forces and Vice Admiral Marc Mitscher as commander of the fast carrier forces. The US Tenth Army is led by Lieutenant General Simon B. Buckner, and comprises 183,000 men.
The island, only 325 miles (520 km) from Japan, has two airfields on the western side and two partially-protected bays on the east coast - an excellent springboard for the proposed invasion of the Japanese mainland.
The amphibious landing by the US II Amphibious Corps and XXIV Corps is virtually unopposed. The Japanese commander, Major General Mitsuru Ushijima, has withdrawn his 80,000 men behind Shuri, where he has built a major defensive line.
Better Late Than Never
PawBroon sent this on Friday, but I did not get it until now:
"It was TRUE!
The Frogs are lazy bums and they are updating their web sites on a per shower basis.
Either that or it was that Six Nations rugby tourney for which we seem to be the only team still able to go for the first ever Grand Slam...
Anyway, here is a much awaited update delivering once again stunning Sneak Previews of the MODs being currently worked on.
I'm afraid it's once again an All German thingie.
Is there a Pro German Bias in MODers?
Inquiring minds want to know...
Someone is working on a new H39 MOD.
Well, being French on a day to day basis, I should know about Secretive Frogs and all.
But this here case is a bit weird.
This MODer isn't called Someone, it's just a submission from a total stranger who doesn't wish to be known.
Between Saturnin and me, I thought more French MODers would have been glad to take on the challenge.
Or somefink.
Well, from a strict MODing standpoint, who the guy is doesn't matter much.
There's only one obvious thing you could get, this discreet MODer is very talented and he has produced the best HiRes H39 since the game was first released...
Gordon Molek is MODing as if his life was depending on it.
Fact is, my life depends on your MODs Gordon so move it!
Amongst the dozen of MODs he is doing at any one time, I've decided to put his JgdPzIV and his bodacious King Tiger under the spotlight.
You'll see upon close inspection that his upcoming King Tiger will be the most detailed KT ever.
As usual from the CMMOS Gang'O'Thieves, expect a wealth of options and other CMMOS triggered goodies.
It's real, it's happening.
So brace for impact.
Makjager is still not done.
So as is customary now, you'll find Work In Progress of his upcoming Tiger MOD.
We would have seen this MOD grow and we'd be there the day of its release.
It's a bit like our child really.
Paul, that MOD is really going to be something.
MODers are not charging us for their hard work.
Remember that it costs you less to provide some feedback than for them to offer you the MODs.
Go get the goods in Incoming."
Saturday, March 30, 2002
March 31, 1941
Africa, Libya-
Rommel engages in fierce battles with British 2nd Armored Division and is briefly halted. The 15th Panzer Division lands in Tripoli to support Axis movements in the region.
"Bomb Madmatt" TRP/Ambush Markers, by Ed Kinney!
Have you ever wished you could get your own back on Madmatt for prematurely locking up that wonderfully intelligent, thought provoking thread that took you days to piece together over at the CM Forum? Well, now you can! Just install this "Bomb Madmatt Mod" from Ed Kinney, buy the biggest god-damn arty you can, sit back, and enjoy the show. Oh Happy Days! :)
Thanks to Ed "Tanks A lot" Kinney for submittng this to us.
Roight! I'm off to buy the biggest artillery pieces i can lay my hands on!
Thursday, March 28, 2002
March 29, 1942
Politics, Britain/India-
Britain announces its proposals to grant India semi-independent status when the war ends.
Wednesday, March 27, 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.
March 28, 1940
Politics, Allies-
Britain and France agree not to make any separate peace treaties. From April 5 they plan to mine Norwegian waters to force Nazi ships carrying Swedish iron ore into the open seas and expose them to naval attack. The minelaying is deferred to April 8. This is too late to prevent the Nazi invasion planned for the 9th.
What?! It's not CMBB!
Battlefront.com and developer Panther Games are proud to announce “Airborne Assault – Red Devils over Arnhem,” an operational level real-time wargame about the final leg of “Operation Market Garden.” Players can take command of the British Airborne forces (the “Red Devils”) as they struggle to seize control of the strategic Rhine river crossing at the Dutch town of Arnhem in September 1944 or rally the desperate German forces as they try to repel the airborne invaders.
“Airborne Assault” has officially entered Beta status, and is scheduled for release this summer. As usual, it will be available only from Battlefront.com and is not being sold in retail.
This innovative game includes “realistic Command & Control, multiplayer support and unprecedented historical detail,”“detailed Order of Battles with a total of over 440 combat units (platoon size and up),” and much more.
Visit here for more information and screenshots!
Also, a section of the forum at Battlefront.com has been dedicated to “Airborne Assault.” Visit here to join the chat.
March 27, 1941
Africa, Eritrea-
The Battle of Keren, in northeast Eritrea, ends with Italian forces being forced to retreat toward the capital Asmara. The Italians lose 3000 men compared to British fatalities of 536. Asmara falls five days later.
Tuesday, March 26, 2002
It's Raining Again
Scipio is working his sound magic again:
"I have posted a new background sound for rain weather at WarfareHQ!
Enjoy!
Scipio"
March 26, 1943
Sea War, Pacific-
At the Battle of Kommandorsky Islands in the Bering Sea, two US cruisers and four destroyers engage four Japanese cruisers and five destroyers. The Japanese abandon the action just before they can exploit their numerical superiority. Both sides have a cruiser badly damaged.
Sunday, March 24, 2002
March 25, 1941
Politics, Yugoslavia-
Yugoslavia joins the Axis powers by signing the Tripartite Pact.
A New Day
Yobobo is starting something:
"Finally we have launched!
This joint effort of Swamp, von_Schalburg, Jwxspoon, Skelley, Redwolf, GravesRegistration Homba and Yobobo is finally ready to roll! The main idea behind it was to have a totally interactive site full of CM info. A place where players can come and study tactics, read reviews, AAR's etc., but most important of all, where anyone can submit their own articles. Our goal is to maintain a huge database, in an easy to follow and find format. And of course we have a forum!
Add your links, articles, tactics, reviews, FAQ's & announcements today!"
CMMOS Building Updates !
We have just received some updates from the CMMOS Team for a couple previously released Building mods on CMHQ: namely, buildings made by "Tanks A Lot" and Mike Duplessis. The mods all feature either new or revised textures.
Thanks to Mike, "Tanks", and as always, the CMMOS guys (Gordon and Philippe).
Friday, March 22, 2002
Juju's "Small Arms" Pack, by Juju !
Juju delivers the goods again with his latest modding masterpiece -- a complete set of MG's, SMG's and Rifles to equip your battle weary troops with. Stunningly recreated, morale amongst your soldiers is bound to increase once they get these little beauties in their hands. :)
Direct Link: Grab Your Weapons !
March 22, 1942
Sea War, Mediterranean-
A superior Italian force engages a British convoy sailing from Alexandria to Malta. A relatively small escort of five light cruisers and 17 destroyers initially resists an attack led by the battleship Littorio at the Battle of Sirte. A storm, however, results in the loss of two Italian destroyers. The convoy subsequently faces air attacks and only 5000 of the original 25,000 tons (25,400 metric tonnes) of supplies arrive. British naval losses and commitments in the Mediterranean have reduced the number of ships available for convoy escorts.
Thursday, March 21, 2002
The New Kid
WvG throws his hat into the ring:
"I just created a new page the other day and its title is below.
I have a new edited German Voices mod and my old Heavy Tank mod.
I am also looking for a mod maker as a partner."
March 21, 1943
Italy, Mareth Line-
Wadi Zigzaou is crossed by a small British force during the skirmishes around the Mareth Line. It will be reinforced the following day, but attacks by 15th Panzer Division preclude further advances at this juncture. Meanwhile the New Zealanders will be held at Tebaga Gap.
Tuesday, March 19, 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.
March 19, 1944
Politics, Hungary-
With the Red Army rapidly approaching the Balkans, Hitler has sent troops to occupy the country. Admiral Miklos Horthy, the regent, has been ordered to appoint a pro-Nazi premiere, allow the German Army to take over the transport system, and give the SS a free hand in deporting Hungarian Jews to concentration camps.
Italy, Cassino-
A German counterattack against Peak 193 is unsuccessful but has loosened the Allied stranglehold. A New Zealand armored assault against the monastery is destroyed.
Monday, March 18, 2002
March 18, 1944
Eastern Front, Ukraine-
The Soviet 2nd Ukrainian Front has reached the Dniester River and siezed a large bridgehead at Mogilev Podolsky. This has split the German Army Group South's front in two and has put the Red Army in a position to advance to the Romanian frontier.
Sunday, March 17, 2002
More for the Masses
Tom is on the case:
" Tom has published alternative bitmaps for the "Ardennes 1944" mod: due to popular demand he did a new dirt road set (350 kb) based on the
original stock graphics (low res).
More news: Subscribe to the TCMHQ mailing list and be the first to know about new stuff on the TCMHQ site.
For those who want to publish their best CM screenshots: go the the "Reports" section and enter the "Gallery." Here you can upload your best combat pics.
Much more stuff is in the pipeline for the next weeks: a new winterized Marder II , John Shehulski´s/Andrew Fox´s latest models and a complete "Street Fighting" mod. Stay tuned."
Saturday, March 16, 2002
March 17, 1945
Far East, Burma-
The battle for Mandalay begins. The main Japanese garrison is situated in Fort Dufferin, which is pounded incessantly by British artillery. Following an intensive aerial bombardment, the Japanese evacuate the fort on the 19th - Mandalay is in British hands.
Now It's Personal!
Mr. Dorosh has a great idea:
"In anticipation of CMBB, and with a view towards user created "campaign", multi-player and other games involving some amount of roleplaying, I've formulated a list of ranks and responsibilities. The list, still incomplete, but growing, outlines the likely ranks and responsibilities of men in infantry battalions in the German, Russian, Romanian, Italian, Hungarian, and Finnish armies, with seperate tables also for the Luftwaffe and Waffen SS. I am still looking for help with some of the basic command structures of the various armies other than the Germans. (Incidentally, where have all the uber-Finns gone these days??) If nothing else, the page is of interest for the various rank insignia. The similarity between the rank titles of all the various nations is quite interesting in itself.
Direct Link
I hope to offer an updated version of my Personal Campaign Game for CMBB players; I'm currently researching a seperate page on decorations and awards for the various nationalities, as well as updated campaign rules.
Mike"
March 16, 1945
Eastern Front, Hungary-
Marshal Fedor Tolbukhin's 3rd Ukranian Front commences the Red Army's counterattack against Operation Spring Awakening on the front between Lake Velencei and Bicske. The German IV SS Panzer Corps holds in the face of overwhelming superiority in tanks and men, but the Hungarian Third Army on the left collapses.
Pacific, Iwo Jima-
The island of Iwo Jima is declared secure by the Americans following 26 days of combat. They have lost 6821 soldiers and sailors dead, while of the 21,000 Japanese garrison, only 1083 are taken prisoner. The rest have been killed or committed suicide.
Thursday, March 14, 2002
Panther A "625-Wiking", by Hugo Gosciniak
Our latest update maybe a little on the small side, but it's a high quality one nevertheless. Many thanks go out to Hugo Gosciniak for submitting an absolutely stunning Panther A mod, kitted out in "Wiking" Division markings and camoe. The mod comes with many optional extras for you to choose from, including, turret numbering ("625"), "Wiking" Divisional insignia, and shurzen.
This mod comes highly recommended!
March 14, 1942
Politics, Australia-
Large numbers of US troops begin arriving in Australia.
Wednesday, March 13, 2002
A Mid-Week Motherlode
PawBroon is working in the middle of the week this time:
"Time for some serious updating!
First thing first, I've dumped Level One because it has never been updated since it was a duplicate of MODs.
After all, why do close ups of MODs in Level One if I was already doing the same in some other parts of the site?
It will be replaced by either a CMMOS Tutorial or by some interviews with MODers to learn more about their work and how they do it.
Be sure to tell me which you'd rather have...
Saturnin is working on a new MOD.
This time it's the only French vehicle of CM:
the Mighty Hotchkiss H39!!
As a bonus, he MODed the tankers with a dandy YMCA look wearing sleeveless shirt.
Why would someone do that is beyond me, but since it's a wee bit like a Village People MOD, I'd rather have it beyond than behind...
While Gordon Molek is MODing at least 6 different MODs, I've decided to showcase his upcoming JgdPzIV.
Expect all the usual options including Zimmerit.
Juju is doing it again.
He must be a shareholder of Ms Paint since he seems to think that it's the latest fashion in paint programs.
I guess it's once again proof that Talent beats the Tool any time of the day.
This time he is MODing Small Arms.
As you can see for yourself, they'll be at Ultra High Res and would most certainly be found in most of our hard drives once released.
Tanks a Lot is now a rabid Tree MODer.
To cater to the specific needs of MikeT's Total Conversion of CM for the Pacific Theatre, he has MODed some palm trees.
I'm sure there must be some Federal Law against that...
Reno Flame 36 is a total stranger.
Unless it's one of Meeks' aliases.
Seriously, I've received a PzIV MOD from Dave Singer based on Fernando Carrera Buil's own MOD.
It's not just a colour tweak or is it a simple cut & paste job.
The actual textures have been improved on and are more detailed.
Yes, it's possible!
I'm glad some more MODers with this kind of talent are joining us...
Makjager is still sending me Work In Progress of his upcoming Tiger MOD.
It's not done yet and that's why kids are crying and moms breastfeeding their babies are suddenly drying up.
Considering I'm still using the Tiger from the MDMP, and that you're holding up my review of that AFV, you should be ashamed.
It's not very Catholic of you, Paul.
Come to think of it, it's not very Protestant either!
Av course yer can never really know wi' the bloody Oirish...
And because MODers thrive on the attention, remember that it costs you less to provide some feedback than for them to offer you the MODs.
Don't let me hold you and go check those in Incoming.
Those of you who are drooling over Hugo Gosciniak's work should go take a look at my profanity-laced Panther Review where I've included his latest TriColor MOD.
You'll find it here in the here.
And finally because the MOD Sluts are so often asking for weathered MODs, some tips to give you the basic knowledge to do it yourself.
It's true that some MODs, if not all, are released with a Factory Clean look.
If that's buggering you, follow this Tutorial and try to dirty up your favourite MODs some.
It'll be in two parts.
The first one will teach you how to do stains and peel paint; the next one will add mud and battle damage.
If you want to hear me talking dirty to you without dialling a 900 number, go there: How to.
PawBroon"
Tuesday, March 12, 2002
March 13, 1943
Home Front, Germany-
An unsuccessful assassination attempt is made on Adolf Hitler by army officers. They place a bomb in his aircraft but it fails to explode.
Monday, March 11, 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.
March 12, 1942
Pacific, New Caledonia-
US Forces, including the first operational deployment of "Seabee" engineers, begin establishing a base in Noumea on New Caledonia in the southwest Pacific.
Combat Mission Bonus Disc Details
On March 7, 2002, The Adrenaline Vault announced details about the bonus CD being included with Combat Mission: Beyond Overlord. CDV is the company responsible for distributing CMBO in Europe. For more information, click the link below.
Sunday, March 10, 2002
For Your Information...
Mr. Dorosh keeps adding the good stuff:
"Some new info up on GD at (where else) GD for CM. Bios of Graf Strachwitz and Otto-Ernst Remer, illustrated with period colour photos courtesy of Paal Waland. Remer was especially notorious as the one who crushed the anti-Hitler conspirators in July 1944 and was sentenced to prison at age eighty for denying the Holocaust. Also as complete a listing as is currently available on regimental commanders in the GD Division, with photos."
March 11, 1940
Eastern Front, Finland-
The Treay of Moscow between Finland and the Soviet Union is agreed after the Red Army makes hard-won gains. Although Allied help to the nation is negligible, the Finnish Army has not capitulated. Finland retains its independence but has to surrender the Karelian Isthmus and Hango - 10 percent of its territory. Campaign losses: 200,000 Soviet troops and 25,000 Finns.
Late War Fashion Statement
Scipio has some new duds for the Yanks:
"A new uniform has been issued to the US45 troops. It can be downloaded as ussual at WarfareHQ.
Cheers,
Scipio"
A Pack, a Scenario, and a Job
Panzerman has a progress report and a question:
"Here's a little update on what we are working on.
The Lorraine Battle Pack is getting closer to completion.
I am working on a new scenario called "St. Vith" - the real name of the city is Sankt-Vith, but who worries about using the real name, right? - which should been done in the next few weeks. The battle involves Waffen SS infantry and armor attacks on the men of the US 2nd Infantry Division, which was held up in the city. Anyway, I will tell you more about the battle when it is released.
Now it's time for a little announcement from...well, me...
Do you have website design Talents? Do you want to get involved in testing battles? Do you have spare time away from work and CM? Then we need your help. Email me for further information. We will take all applications received over the next 24 hours (as of March 9-10, 2002). My email is robisme_ca@hotmail.com.
I may lengthen the timeline if we get more applications than expected in the next 24 hours. It most likely will not, as we have already announced this last weekend.
Well, that's all for this weekend. Till next time...
Rob, aka Panzerman"
March 10, 1945
Western Front, Germany-
Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery's 21st Army Group completes the conquest of the area west of the Rhine River. The group has lost 22,934 casualties, although the Germans have suffered casualties totalling 90,000 men defending the area immediately west of the Ruhr.
Air War, Japan-
The first American fire raid on Japan, against Tokyo, burns out over 16 square miles (25.6 sq km) of the city and kills 100,000 people.
Friday, March 8, 2002
March 9, 1942
Politics, United States-
Admiral Harold Stark replaces Vice Admiral Robert Ghormley as US naval commander in European waters. Admiral Ernest King assumes Stark's position as Chief of Naval Operations on the 26th.
Far East, Dutch East Indies-
Japan gains possession of its "Southern Resource Area" with the surrender of Allied combatants in the Dutch East Indies. The capture of this resource-rich area and Malaya allows Japan to consider offensives against India and Australia.
A Little Bit of Everything
Berlichtingen and Mensch collaborate for this one:
"To start things off, and to give some competition to Herr Germanboy, I have a new battle up... Rees-am-Rhein. Nasty little street fight.
Just when you thought it was safe to visit Der Kessel, our very own Scenario-Meister Germanboy produces another Gem...Epsom. This one is meant to go along with Pawbroon's new Archer mod. Where is the Archer mod you ask? It will be posted here shortly (as soon as Mensch pulls his thumb out).
Two new book reviews. Germanboy gives his impression of «Red Storm on the Reich» and Maus has a lengthy review of «German Armoured Units at Arnhem».
Last but not least, Henk Langeveld gives us a very fine map... Schijndel Road.
- Dan «Berlichtingen» Brown
Right after letting Berli cause havoc to the site by actually doing a update!! Yikes! Heh I am back from a wonderful evening with me wife and now she is happy talking about shoes with my brother-in-law's girlfriend. So here is an update from my end of the deal. As mentioned before Pawbroo'ns wonderful Archer Mod is here. With Hugo punching out another wonderful Panther A Hi-Res mod as well.
To go along with the Archer TD Mod is a wonderful article about the Archer Tank Destroyer by our French Mad Modder Pawbroon."
He would have never guessed I would do this!
Running a website and working for a company that does its core business online can often have the side effect of artificially distancing someone from the "human" element.
I sit here, day after day and pound on a keyboard and interact with those people who are my friends and my family but all along there is another family circle, an extended family if you will, of whom I deal with purely through the dull light of my monitor.
I communicate with these people day in and day out but in the end they are just images in my head, text on a screen, friends without faces. All too often I forget that these people have their own stories to tell, their own crosses to bear, their own pain to suffer and to heal.
Ted Quincey, has ALWAYS been present when called to action, always optimistic, always willing to help in any of the myriad of tasks I throw his way and even though we work virtually side by side on CMHQ, until today I don't think I much knew who he "really" is.
Ted, recently posted an After Action Report of sorts to the Battlefront.com Forums going over his recent and near catastrophic knee injury and his fight to recover and play soccer again.
Please read over his AAR, you will find it near the bottom of the page linked below.
Ted, I said above that maybe I didn't really know you all that well, I think that maybe in some small way, I do now. It's an honor to work with you here and a greater privilege to be your friend.
Now everyone, read his story and then pick on him mercilessly in his thread!
Had it been me, I would have been jogging again that night!
-Madmatt
March 8, 1944
Air War, Germany-
The US 8th Army Air Force launches a massive daylight precision raid on the Erker ball-bearing works, Berlin. A total of 590 aircraft mount the raid. There are 75 direct hits on the target, but the Americans lose 37 aircraft. This is the third US raid on Berlin under the escort of P-51 Mustang fighters. It results in the halting of ball-bearing production for some time.
Thursday, March 7, 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, March 6, 2002
March 7, 1944
Home Front, Germany-
Members of the Nazi organization for women are making house-to-house calls to recruit females between the ages of 17 and 45 to work "in the service of the community." This is to bolster Germany's depleted labor force.
Andrew Fox's Marder III, Wespe, Pak40 Pack
We have a fantastic set of Marder III, Wespe, and Pak40 mods for you today -- freshly cooked up for you from the hands of one of Combat Mission's most accomplished and respected modders -- Andrew Fox. These mods are kitted out in both Dunkelgelb and Winter camo schemes and feature superb detailing and weathering effects. You know what to do!
Direct Link: Get em' here!Tuesday, March 5, 2002
Behind the Scenes...
From the Boots & Tracks team:
"Despite not having a website, we continuing to work on some good stuff here. We have three scenarios currently in playtesting and another twelve in development. So, when Military Gamer gets things under control, we should be close to getting one of these babies out the door.
Stay tuned...
SuperTed"
Quarter-Kit Model Shop Now Sponsoring WWII Vehicle Modelling Contest
From the boys at Battlefront.com:
"The Quarter-Kit Model Shop, offering a complete range of miniatures-kits and pre-built and painted models made with resin, white metal or die-cast-is now sponsoring the Missing Links & Battlefront.com WWII Vehicle Modeling Contest by submitting 30 exclusive model shots for Combat Mission: Barbarossa to Berlin! Thanks to Quarter-Kit for their support! Be sure to check out their webpage to see some of their great kits and minatures."
Monday, March 4, 2002
March 5, 1941
Balkans, Greece-
The first contingent of British troops sails from Egypt. By April 2 some 58,000 troops will have been sent to help defend the country.
Honorable Mention
In February of this year, Gamespy.com ran a four-part series on computer strategy gaming. It included the history of the genre and paid homage to several classic games. Also, in the fourth and final installment the current state of strategy gaming is discussed. Toward the end of the article, Combat Mission is described as "...fun, intense, and completely new."
To read all the articles, click the link below.
Sunday, March 3, 2002
March 4, 1941
Western Front, Norway-
A joint British and Norwegian commando raid and naval assault on the Lofoten Islands destroys fish-oil plants used in the production of explosives, captures 215 Germans, rescues 300 Norwegians, and sinks 10 ships.
SP Gun Anyone?
Tom never rests:
" Don´t miss the "French Mod Festival" at TCMHQ: We got Saturnins first CM Mod: a wonderfull textured hires Marder II that comes with an alternative damaged version (grab it from the TCMHQ "Axis Armor" modsite) and a stunning hires Archer designed by PawBroon. BTW: Tom is still busy with several alternative graphics for his "Battle of the Bulge" Mod. Stay tuned."
Latest CMMOS Releases!
We have the latest batch of CMMOS releases here exclusively at CMHQ. First off, we have a newly updated version of Fernando's Flak Panzer (Mono) mod. Also, there are brand new summer/winter releases of Gordon Molek's FlakPz and SdKfz250/1 series -- available in Mono, Tri, Ambush, and Hasty camo schemes.
The on-going quest to "CMMOSIZE" all of CMBO's mods continues, and you can expect to see alot more CMMOS goodies being releases over the coming weeks as we step up the pace here at CMHQ.
Saturday, March 2, 2002
Help Wanted
Panzerman has something to ask:
"Just a small updated today.
I have posted the March WWII picture of the month, updated the old news page, and made some small changes to the scenarios page. Sorry, no new battles; not yet anyway. Although this is not posted on the site, I am looking for someone with website designing talents. Now, as many of you may have noticed over the last 8 months, the site has remained in its current, boring (to say the least) state. I have some HTML knowledge, but not enough to do what I think we need to. If you have experience and want to get involved then just email me at Robisme_ca@hotmail.com. I will take any applications I get over the next week and then choose the person we feel as a team fits the job best. Well that's all for now.
Panzerman"
No Panthers This Time...
Despite still being in the aftermath of the Panther MODs review, PawBroon keeps bringing the good stuff:
"I'd like to have some of your Saturday Specials, Mr Freeze!!
You've heard it.
The King of Snow, the Pope of Whitewashing, the Ayatollah of Subzero MODing is back in full blast...
Gordon Molek's Flak Panzers are showcased with the usual smorgasboard of optional files one can only have with those High Quality CMMOS MODs.
Makjager is still keeping me posted with the Work In Progress of his upcoming Tiger MOD.
This one would most certainly be worth the wait.
Of course, this putting on hold the review of all Tigers MODs, it better be good.
Am I being helpful, Paul?
Because I'm one of those boring Traditionalists, please join me in thanking all of our MODers for their time and talent.
PawBroon"
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.
March 2, 1942
Politics, Australia-
All Australian adult civilians become liable for war service.
Friday, March 1, 2002
A Bone Is Launched!
From the desk of Madmatt:
"Damage...It is pain, destruction, chaos and up till now in Combat Mission it was resigned to the realm of the imagination. Well no longer.
Allow me to introduce yet another new CMBB game feature. Damaged Building Textures!!!"
NOTE: Click below to get to the screenshots and read more details!