Firestorm: Stripes

The orders were clear: Push forward to Amsterdam, all casualties are acceptable. Across the field, British Chieftains and Marders of the puppet government stood ready and waiting for the onslaught to come.

On the left flank, T-55’s massed together and smashed the forward Luchs scouts. In the center, Spandrels fired long range missiles at the Chieftains on the British right, while the T-72’s sneaked through the woods to take up a concealed firing position. On the right, BTR’s advanced ahead along with a unit of Shilkas to attack the lone Marder who had strayed too far ahead. The NATO allies were not amused, and a volley of fire from Chieftains and Jaguars made their mark.

“I’ve told you already, Comrade, all casualties are acceptable! Do not call this line again until you reach the city!” The East German commander composed himself and relayed the order to continue the assault to his subordinates. The T-55s continued their charge across the field, supported by fire from the Spandrels and T-72’s, resulting in the British Chieftains in the woods retreating, which left the infantry on their own. The remaining Chieftains and Jaguars continued to gun line the Reds, causing more “acceptable” casualties to the tanks and BTR’s. By some miracle, the East German commander made a “tactical redeployment” back behind the woods, to continue leading the army of course.

The Spandrels decided to show their worth this day. After successfully crossing the woods, they were able to target the British tanks on the hill, driving them off. With the British retreating, it was up to the West Germans to hold the line.

And hold they did. The infantry in the woods fought like lions to keep the T-55s away from the Gepards. This is turn prevented East German air assets from assisting the tanks. With little options, the Hinds dropped their infantry in the rear areas, only to begin a long trek forward. On the right, all BTRs and Shilkas had been eliminated. The Mot-Schuetzen dug in and awaited for the inevitable counter attack.

That attack would never come, as the West Germans were recalled to a new defensive line. Unable to pursue, the East German commander regrouped his forces, knowing that High Command might add him to the list of “acceptable casualties” for allowing the enemy to escape.