Lead Adventure Forum

Miniatures Adventure => The Conflicts that came in from the Cold => Topic started by: Dr. Zombie on May 12, 2019, 04:28:58 PM

Title: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: Dr. Zombie on May 12, 2019, 04:28:58 PM
Empress wore me down with their very cool previews of their Vietnam marines. And I started stockpiling plastic plants to build some jungle scenery. I placed an order with Empress that arrived friday and I set to work.

Here is the first marines in country. I know they are supposed to be fighting i Hue, but I have dreamt of some jungle fighting for a long time. The camera has washed out the colours somewhat. I painted them i various shades of olive green/khaki. To represent different levels of faded gear.
(https://i.imgur.com/DKkeS4A.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Lj8M1C7.jpg)

I have bamboo and palms and other asorted plants comming in from china and then this lot from Ikea and a petstore. So I can fill a table with jungle.
(https://i.imgur.com/zSF8XOT.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: mrcleh on May 12, 2019, 04:47:03 PM
Very nice work on those lovely miniatures and, if I might add, damn fast! :D

The plants look good as well, a nice and varied collection!
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on May 12, 2019, 05:18:21 PM
Thanks.
The minis are awesome there was next to no cleaning necessary. And 90% of the painting is just one color. All that greatly reduces production time.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Marine0846 on May 12, 2019, 07:16:29 PM
Dr. Z,
Love the look of your Marines.
Interesting that you have done your bases more for jungle.
Have been thinking of how to do my figures.
Still have not made a decision.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Oldboy on May 12, 2019, 08:04:32 PM
Lovely looking figures. Crack on the next batch should be available soon. It's never ending
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: jasper on May 12, 2019, 08:16:54 PM
Those look nice.

I still have to base mine before i start painting.
The stack of ikea and china plastic is very familiar.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Splod on May 12, 2019, 08:52:59 PM
Looking fantastic mate. I love the buildings in that final shot; any chance of some more photos and details on where they're from?
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on May 12, 2019, 08:56:44 PM
The buildings are homemade by myself. You can see more of them in my African conflict thread.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on May 14, 2019, 08:45:32 PM
I had a go at making some jungle terrain. This is just a small test piece to test out some stuff. The plan is to make some bigger pieces that block movement and line of sight. And a bunch of smaller scatter pieces.
(https://i.imgur.com/DHo9G2h.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on May 15, 2019, 09:02:03 AM
Great job  ;)

Bit of advice, which you may already have covered.  When I made all of my jungle I put stuff on three size bases largish, middle size and a lot of individual plants trees on separate bases . I also did the three heights short, middle size and tall. This way you get maximum flexibility when laying the terrain out and it never gets boring.

Also add a few plants with flowers. It adds colour but do not go for the Martian look  lol

Also remember to leave room for the figures to get through otherwise it makes gaming really annoying. In know I learnt the hard way.  :o

Lastly not all of Vietnam is jungle and there are a lot of western style trees mixed in, although you have done that.

Brilliant fun making it so enjoy.  ;)

Cheers, Paul 
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on May 15, 2019, 10:56:36 AM
That is almost exactly my plan. There will be some impassable jungle areas and others with some paths through. All in various sizes. I have a lot more plants en route from China. This was just a test piece for fun. There are also plans for some burnt out areas that has been hit by napalm or some areas hit with Agent Orange. After all I need a place for those Med. Evac choppers to land.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on May 15, 2019, 11:50:30 AM
One useful resource are sections of astro turf in different lengths. Great for making clearings etc.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: gamer Mac on May 15, 2019, 11:55:04 AM
Lovely bit of jungle :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Legion1963 on May 15, 2019, 08:44:20 PM
Indeed. These miniatures look sterling. And that is some mighty fine jungle Doc Zombie. Enjoy the jungle fighting. ;-)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on May 16, 2019, 10:07:59 PM
I am still waiting on my load of palm trees, bamboo and other jungle plants. But even so I did another test piece for a smaller scatter piece.
(https://i.imgur.com/vMVVHu9.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on May 18, 2019, 02:11:46 PM
I made two more scatterbases. The jungle is steadily growing.
(https://i.imgur.com/QHqTWVC.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on May 18, 2019, 02:58:04 PM
The jungle is steadily growing.
(https://i.imgur.com/QHqTWVC.jpg)
It does that.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on May 18, 2019, 03:56:52 PM
Well we can't have the jungle spreading to much. Lets bomb the treline back a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/WytxJQ5.jpg)

That smell of victory..
(https://i.imgur.com/AeqlHda.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: traveller on May 18, 2019, 06:59:18 PM
 :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Splod on May 18, 2019, 08:43:23 PM
Great work. Really love the bombed out terrain base.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: gamer Mac on May 19, 2019, 12:05:38 PM
Great addition :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: tomrommel1 on May 20, 2019, 10:24:49 AM
lovely jungle indeed
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on June 02, 2019, 01:09:07 PM
I got some bamboo in the mail the other day and I had to make a small piece with it just to try it out. I am still waiting for some more plastic plants from china until I go full on jungle.

(https://i.imgur.com/e3IHXR0.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: gamer Mac on June 02, 2019, 01:14:25 PM
Very effective terrain piece :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on July 21, 2019, 04:01:05 PM
I have been doing some more jungle pieces for the Marines to hump through. So far no sign of Charlie.
(https://i.imgur.com/oEQYxrr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6DiRLwh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/22Wav1J.jpg)

It would have been more but I have run out of spray glue to make trees and I have also run out of palmtrees.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: AKULA on July 21, 2019, 05:11:06 PM
Great looking jungle

 8)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: tomrommel1 on July 22, 2019, 09:52:16 AM
Were did you get the bamboo from?
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on July 22, 2019, 09:57:39 AM
The bamboo is from a chinese seller on eBay. Just do a search for 1:50 bamboo.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on July 24, 2019, 07:55:26 AM
Excellent. Love the bamboo. Must get some. ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on August 04, 2019, 07:25:47 PM
I have been growing my bush..
So now it is at a point where I can almost fill an entire table. I am still going to make a few more pieces of jungle and then I am going to start with some rice paddies and perhaps some hotches.
(https://i.imgur.com/10aIwo7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8y34FqG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/f2D7EO6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2ZMv9kT.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on August 05, 2019, 09:12:58 AM
Busy boy and Great work.

I just made a couple more paddy fields.  ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Erik on August 05, 2019, 01:12:52 PM
NICE!

Good idea to use the swamps from the Christmas game.

Have you thought about storage, or is that just a silly question?


Cheers
Erik
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: grant on August 05, 2019, 10:59:34 PM
I have been growing my bush..
So now it is at a point where I can almost fill an entire table.

Oo’er missus!

And it’s 1-2-3 what are we fighting for?

Next stop is Viet Nam  :)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Mason on August 05, 2019, 11:18:59 PM
Great work, Doc!
I love the variety of plants you are using, they look great together.
The likkal men are none too shabby either.
 :-* :-*

A jungle is on my 'to-do' list and I have a box in the loft full of similar plastic tat ton make it with, so I shall be following to steal ideas and avoid pitfalls.
 :D

And 'Damn Empress!' for bringing that range out as I have been ignoring the 'Vietnam Itch' for a long time.....
 ::)

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on August 06, 2019, 07:34:09 AM
A jungle is on my 'to-do' list and I have a box in the loft full of similar plastic tat ton make it with, so I shall be following to steal ideas and avoid pitfalls.
 :D
And 'Damn Empress!' for bringing that range out as I have been ignoring the 'Vietnam Itch' for a long time.....
 ::)

Thanks. I have been wanting an jungle board for ages as well. The Empress Vietnam launch was the last drop and could not hold back any longer. But a jungle is always usefull. When the Marines are not getting shot up by Charlie in it. Some druglord can cook meth in there and all sorts of other great usages.

Have you thought about storage, or is that just a silly question?

Yes mom I have thought about something as mundane and boring as storage. I found some stackable boxes that are perfect for it.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Erik on August 06, 2019, 07:42:45 AM


Yes mom I have thought about something as mundane and boring as storage. I found some stackable boxes that are perfect for it.
[/quote]


 lol lol lol lol
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on August 06, 2019, 02:06:47 PM


And 'Damn Empress!' for bringing that range out as I have been ignoring the 'Vietnam Itch' for a long time.....
 ::)

 lol ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Poiter50 on August 07, 2019, 01:58:52 PM
Can't you get cream for that? ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Mason on August 07, 2019, 02:46:43 PM
Can't you get cream for that? ;)

 lol lol
I have been applying it liberally for years....
 ;)

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on August 07, 2019, 03:31:41 PM
And here is the jungle all tucked away.


Edit: now with the actual picture.
(https://i.imgur.com/oshqK1O.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Mason on August 07, 2019, 04:15:04 PM
And here is the jungle all tucked away.

Blimey!
That packs away very well.....

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on August 07, 2019, 06:57:42 PM
Very neat.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on August 08, 2019, 05:14:15 PM
Busy boy and Great work.

I just made a couple more paddy fields.  ;)

Please do share any tips and tricks.
I think I have a good idea on how I should do them. But there is no point in inventing the wheel all over again.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Erik on August 09, 2019, 11:30:01 AM
And here is the jungle all tucked away.


Edit: now with the actual picture.
(https://i.imgur.com/oshqK1O.jpg)


God boy!
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: gamer Mac on August 09, 2019, 01:27:09 PM
Please do share any tips and tricks.
I think I have a good idea on how I should do them. But there is no point in inventing the wheel all over again.
I made some paddy fields in this thread for Vietnam
 http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=24052.msg307064#msg307064   (http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=24052.msg307064#msg307064)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on August 10, 2019, 08:01:26 PM
I got all of my Devildogs painted up. - for now... I perhaps need a few more to fill out the platoon.

First squad. Led by a 'ard old Sergeant.
(https://i.imgur.com/1ER8b2W.jpg)

Second squad. A bit under strength. Led by an even 'arder veteran Sergeant.
(https://i.imgur.com/4xfVCyn.jpg)

And here is my extra heavy weaponry.
(https://i.imgur.com/C9oNopZ.jpg)

Both squads have an MG attached. And as far as I can figure that is three guys. A gunner and two assistants. Someone more knowledgeable, please correct me.
All empress models except the two SGs they are from the Giants in miniature range. And strictly speaking not marines. But I figure they are hardened old veterans who have been in country a long time and are a bit more loose as far as regulation equipment goes. I need to get the Platoon up to full strength. But next in line are some NVA.

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Blackwolf on August 11, 2019, 03:21:53 AM
Nice painting  :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Mason on August 11, 2019, 09:57:06 AM
Nice work, mate.
 :-* :-*

Also proving that the jungle looks good too as it appears, at first glimpse, that you took those piccies in the garden.
 8) 8)

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on August 11, 2019, 10:09:20 AM
Thanks.
Also i swear there is several shades of green and khaki. But the light and the camera is conspiring against me.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Erik on August 11, 2019, 11:26:36 AM
Great looking platoons and amaising paintingspeed you are holding up.

I totally agree. Barnes is by far the hardest of the two ;)


cheers
Erik
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: tomrommel1 on August 13, 2019, 07:28:45 AM
really nice indeed!!! i have the 2 sergeants on my painting desk ,too.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: AKULA on August 13, 2019, 08:03:44 AM
Great looking figures and terrain

 8)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on August 13, 2019, 01:05:22 PM
  :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on August 13, 2019, 01:49:19 PM
Nice painting.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Treadheadz on August 13, 2019, 05:37:23 PM

My search-fu is weak...

...Please master, give me the sauce!

Ahem... Where did you find the sergeants?
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on August 13, 2019, 05:44:00 PM
http://www.northstarfigures.com/prod.php?prod=13337

There is also a Kilgore but he will have to wait for the rest of the air cav.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Treadheadz on August 13, 2019, 05:45:48 PM

Mucho gracias!
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on August 18, 2019, 07:10:51 PM
After the Marines endless patrols in the jungle. They have at last spottet NVA forces.
(https://i.imgur.com/1u1B3le.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on August 19, 2019, 08:24:42 AM
Scary guys  :o

Great work.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: tomrommel1 on August 19, 2019, 08:46:49 AM
Nice NVA!
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on August 19, 2019, 10:49:26 PM
Very nice.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr DeAth on August 21, 2019, 02:14:10 AM
You're amassing a nice little collection there.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on August 25, 2019, 02:01:04 PM
I finished some more marines.

Platoon command
(https://i.imgur.com/KfgvaFZ.jpg)

A forward artillery observer
(https://i.imgur.com/RLZ16j0.jpg)

And a sniper
(https://i.imgur.com/z7EPpxM.jpg)

The radio operators are from Empress and the rest are from Gringos. The Gringo Marines are a bit more chunky in their proportions and a bit taller. But I don't think it is a problem once they are painted. There are some great poses in the Gringo range. But I think I like the proportions on the Empress ones a bit better.

Looking at the pictures it dawns on me that I have not painted their boots. That will be rectified.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Paul Hicks on August 25, 2019, 02:18:33 PM
Lovely work on your figures mate!
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on August 25, 2019, 03:20:46 PM
Lovely work on your figures mate!

Thank you. And right back at you.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Mason on August 25, 2019, 03:57:39 PM
Doc: I made some 'Jungle'* and you are at least partly to blame.
 :D

Slightly 'cartoony' jungle, but jungle, nonetheless....
 ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on August 25, 2019, 06:52:26 PM
Hehe, every wargamer needs a jungle.

I have been playing around with my jungle and Marines.
Here is the full platoon of Marines emerging from the jungle.
(https://i.imgur.com/unPUwwv.jpg)

First squad
(https://i.imgur.com/3TLR50c.jpg)

Second squad
(https://i.imgur.com/H1Z4hRR.jpg)

Third squad
(https://i.imgur.com/gLMZy1U.jpg)

Platoon Hq
(https://i.imgur.com/AOpaznH.jpg)

Forward observer
(https://i.imgur.com/KcAT0vF.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Mason on August 25, 2019, 08:15:28 PM
Ooooh!
Nice shots.
 8) 8)


Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: tomrommel1 on August 26, 2019, 07:20:47 AM
Very nice indeed ! I am mixing gringos 40 and Empress marines ,too . works quite well and gives you even more diversity in your units.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on September 15, 2019, 03:38:56 PM
While I am still waiting for the next batch of NVA I have been building some more Jungle and I got this guy of eBay and grimed it up a bit and added a flight stand. My Marines will now ride in style.
(https://i.imgur.com/XulrnTM.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Mason on September 15, 2019, 04:38:33 PM
A nice addition to the project.
 8) 8)

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: traveller on September 16, 2019, 06:31:59 PM
Sweet! :-*

I would also need some flight stands, where did you find yours?
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on September 16, 2019, 07:10:20 PM
I made it myself out of an acrylic rod. Glued to a wooden base covered in plants.
(https://i.imgur.com/4fIaWS7.jpg?1)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on September 17, 2019, 08:33:34 AM
I made it myself out of an acrylic rod. Glued to a wooden base covered in plants.
(https://i.imgur.com/4fIaWS7.jpg?1)

My money is on the NVA in this skirmish  lol
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on September 17, 2019, 09:03:15 AM
Perhaps, but they have just arrived at the paint desk yesterday and folishly have their backs to the crossbowmen who are veterans of my paintdesk, they have been waiting to be finished for about 6 months.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Mason on September 17, 2019, 09:27:23 AM
Perhaps, but they have just arrived at the paint desk yesterday and folishly have their backs to the crossbowmen who are veterans of my paintdesk, they have been waiting to be finished for about 6 months.

They must have got lost in all that jungle......

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on September 18, 2019, 08:36:14 AM
Perhaps, but they have just arrived at the paint desk yesterday and folishly have their backs to the crossbowmen who are veterans of my paintdesk, they have been waiting to be finished for about 6 months.

I regularly paint stuff that I prepped years ago, and I mean year  lol

Thanks for the nice comment as well.

 "I think I like the proportions on the Empress ones a bit better."
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on September 21, 2019, 04:39:45 PM
More NVA comming down the trail.
(https://i.imgur.com/8emcl9w.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/IS2qWKj.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FEbjfKR.jpg)

It is high time that I get a game in I think.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Mason on September 21, 2019, 06:15:12 PM
Looking good!
 8) 8)

It is high time that I get a game in I think.

Indeed.
We shall demand piccies of that too, of course!
 :D
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on September 26, 2019, 12:48:33 PM
A forward artillery base of the 3rd Marines have been taking sporadic mortar fire from somewhere in this grid area.
(https://i.imgur.com/n2tRR5P.jpg)

A platoon of Marines have been dispatched to search out and destroy the mortars and rack up some confirmed kills for the news reports.  Full report will follow after the patrol has returned to base.

Stay tuned.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on September 26, 2019, 01:09:08 PM
Looking good.  ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Marine0846 on September 26, 2019, 04:12:04 PM
Cool looking terrain.
Look forward to the AAR.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam
Post by: Dr. Zombie on September 27, 2019, 12:51:25 PM
Last night we played a game using Spectre operations rules.

A forward artillery base of the 3rd Marines have been taking sporadic mortar fire Marines of second Platoon Charlie company move into the area where the mortar fire is suspected to come from. To search out and destroy the mortars and their crews.
(https://i.imgur.com/Sr3ykfD.jpg)

Almost immediately 1st and 2nd squad come under fire by NVA soldiers lying in ambush in the thick bush.
(https://i.imgur.com/XTDGJiS.jpg)

The platoon is accompanied by a Forward artillery observer, who is also ambushed by NVA soldiers. They shoot and severely wound both the observer and his radio operator.
(https://i.imgur.com/91dKopk.jpg)

The Mortars fire another volley at the Forward artillery base. Revealing their position.
(https://i.imgur.com/20MB5ih.jpg)

The NVA soldiers who ambushed the FAO leave him to bleed out. But are caught in the open by Marines from second squad moving to provide aid to the wounded. And are cut down.
(https://i.imgur.com/c5polMd.jpg)

As the NVA mortars fire their second volley the Sg. of third squad calls in an airstrike on the mortar position.
(https://i.imgur.com/fvuRh5S.jpg)

1st and 2nd squad are still in a vicious firefight with the last remaining NVA soldiers of the original ambush. Thy are pinned in place and unable to maneuver.
(https://i.imgur.com/Xv8tFg1.jpg)

But 3rd squad is on a massive flanking move towards the mortar position.
(https://i.imgur.com/cRFwdjb.jpg)

Elements of 2nd platoon and the platoon medic reach the severely wounded FAO and radioman and manage to stabilise them.
(https://i.imgur.com/ur3G88g.jpg)

The mortars displaced their position after they fired their second volley. And that proved to be a vise descision as a Phantom somes screaming over the area and drops an iron bomb just on the mortars previous position.
(https://i.imgur.com/dj6Rr6H.jpg)

In order to try and end the stalemate between the first NVA ambushers and 1st and 2nd squad the remnants of 2nd squad throw their smoke grenades. Even though their aim is way of it allows the two squads to disengage from the firefight.
(https://i.imgur.com/7eg8He8.jpg)

2nd squad moves around the dense bush to try and get away from the first ambush site and move towards the enemy mortars.
(https://i.imgur.com/sBCcvtk.jpg)

Only to blunder into another ambush!
(https://i.imgur.com/hifoT0Z.jpg)

1st squad also move up towards the enemy mortar positions but also come under fire by NVA soldiers from across the river.
(https://i.imgur.com/JIFipkn.jpg)

3 squad however are on their flanking sweep and move across the river and manage to get their "pig" up to take out the group of NVA who ambushed 2 squad.
(https://i.imgur.com/OmmIEaG.jpg)

3rd squad then advances up the river to try and engage the enemy mortars. But it is to late. As the NVA mortars are rounds complete, they melt back into the bush to strike another day.
(https://i.imgur.com/qQoE28F.jpg)

All that is left for the Marines to do is to police up the dead and wounded and get a Med. Evac. bird in.
The platoon has taken a beating with 17 being dead or wounded. They recover 14 dead NVA.

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on September 27, 2019, 12:59:26 PM
Brilliant but General Westmorland will not be happy with that body count.  ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: gamer Mac on September 27, 2019, 02:12:23 PM
Very nice looking game :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Dr. Zombie on September 27, 2019, 04:31:55 PM
Brilliant but General Westmorland will not be happy with that body count.  ;)

After a finecount I have changed the bodycount. But I still will not please general W.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Erik on September 27, 2019, 04:49:38 PM
Not all the lies in the world will cover fore the bloodbath last night. The glorious people of Vietnam made Swiss cheese out of those capitalistic bastards!

Despite Spectres best efford to ruin the chance of a good ambush >:(

Fantastic scenery and miniatures. I look forward to our next game.


Cheers
Erik
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Marine0846 on September 27, 2019, 06:47:54 PM
Great story.
Love the figures and the terrain.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: tomrommel1 on September 30, 2019, 02:02:09 PM
very good looking game
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Dr. Zombie on October 17, 2020, 10:22:50 PM
Soo after some detours I am now back in country. This time with more NVA.
(https://i.imgur.com/Rj99ZiI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4ivwMWL.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Bravo Six on October 18, 2020, 04:13:40 AM
Dr. Zombie, those are GREAT pics and lots of nice stuff on that table!  :o

You should come and spam up Fields of Fire with that stuff.  ;) lol
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Mason on October 18, 2020, 11:13:18 AM
Wonderful inspirational pictures, Sir!
 :-* :-*

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: tomrommel1 on October 19, 2020, 09:59:01 AM
very nice game indeed
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: commissarmoody on October 19, 2020, 11:10:21 AM
Welcome back, and those are some great figs, terrain and AAR.  lol
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on October 19, 2020, 12:04:45 PM
More NVA. The US body count will rise next game  lol

Great looking figures and terrain.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Dr. Zombie on October 19, 2020, 12:07:31 PM
There are more Marines comming of the paint que any day now.

But then again there are NVA heavy weapons en route in the post...
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Dr. Zombie on October 19, 2020, 08:10:08 PM
Some more Marines join the fight. And a war corespondent to document it all.
(https://i.imgur.com/iXe3HEl.jpg)

Also Joker, Cowboy, 8ball and Animal mother make their way through some ruins.
(https://i.imgur.com/gqBxnvm.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: tomrommel1 on October 20, 2020, 07:37:15 AM
nice additions
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Vagabond on October 21, 2020, 11:46:36 PM
Just read through this little lot and it's looking great. You've done a top job on the jungle and the figures, helped by the fact that the sculpts look pretty damn good.

How did you get on with the the Spectre rules and are you on version 1 or 2? I'm thinking of using them in a game tomorrow but I've not printed them yet, let alone read them. :?
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Dr. Zombie on October 22, 2020, 07:18:30 AM
I like the Spectre rules. I have played both 1.st and 2.nd editions. They are very deadly though. You do not want to be shot at in those rules. Because you will most likely die.

They focus a lot on modern warfare and lot of the gizmos and gadgets in the rules were not awailable in Vietnam. But there is a cool rule where a better trained guy can mentor poorer trained guys. That means you can have a squad of Marines who do decent as long as they are under the wing of the veteran sg. but crumble very fast when they are not. Or a fresh Lt. who is only really usefull when the grizled old platoon Sg is holding his hand.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Vagabond on October 24, 2020, 09:59:10 AM
Thanks for your thoughts, I'm on 1st edition and printed them but I'm going to have to go through them with a highlighter to identify the actual rules amongst all the verbiage, they don't like to use 1 sentance when 10 will do..
I've fallen asleep twice before page 20,  I shouldn't try reading things that tax my brain late at night. I will persevere.  :)
Cheers
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Dr. Zombie on November 08, 2020, 04:12:35 PM
I painted up the Marine Recon squad from Empress. I tried to do differet pieces of camo for them all to reflect their more individual nature. I tried to hit the tigerstripe camo and the spotted duckhunter camo. But then I managed to take a picture that shows none of it...
(https://i.imgur.com/4cvUekP.jpg)

Also I painted up the first house for a village.
(https://i.imgur.com/KZHfkkB.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on November 08, 2020, 05:47:14 PM
Very nice painting.

Nice building as well.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Ash on November 08, 2020, 08:13:14 PM
Those recon blokes look the part, nicely done.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 6
Post by: Mason on November 09, 2020, 12:44:25 PM
Those recon blokes look the part, nicely done.

They certainly do!
 8) 8)

Nice hut too.



Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: Grumpy Gnome on November 11, 2020, 10:35:36 AM
Lots of great work, minis and terrain. Thanks for sharing!
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: commissarmoody on November 12, 2020, 05:38:48 AM
The Recon Marines look good to me.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on November 13, 2020, 08:52:00 AM
Excellent work. Give em hell  ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: Mick_in_Switzerland on November 13, 2020, 09:49:52 AM
I like the whole project - scenery and figures - well done :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: Dr. Zombie on November 15, 2020, 04:06:06 PM
I painted another outhouse pigsty type building.
(https://i.imgur.com/2TMwqzv.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on November 15, 2020, 05:21:53 PM
Very nice work.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: Dr. Zombie on May 24, 2021, 10:44:16 AM
I really should be painting ACW but instead I accidentally painted up some nam’ buildings, two small “bunkers” and bought all the empress civilians.
(https://i.imgur.com/RrE7CDF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/aIXJz0Q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/H7gaODa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3jxlLOw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0KJ6o45.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: tomrommel1 on May 25, 2021, 02:28:45 PM
nice additions
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on May 25, 2021, 02:49:15 PM
Excellent toys you got there  :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: CapnJim on May 25, 2021, 03:06:23 PM
Looks good to me!  Dang good...

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: majorsmith on May 25, 2021, 05:34:13 PM
Some great looking miniatures!
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: Dr. Zombie on June 01, 2021, 07:22:06 AM
I have set up a table for an actual game tonight. If you are lucky there will even be an after action report.
(https://i.imgur.com/1XMyC2R.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: Mason on June 01, 2021, 10:26:07 AM
Lovely set-up, mate.
 :-* :-*

We should be playing our first game tomorrow night too!
Woo-Hoo!
 :D

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on June 02, 2021, 10:30:45 PM
Nice terrain.

Though that is a scary looking UFO hovering menacingly above the battlefield.

^__^
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Recon Marines on page 7
Post by: tomrommel1 on June 03, 2021, 10:28:03 AM
very good looking game
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: Dr. Zombie on June 03, 2021, 02:34:53 PM
AAR

Marine recon on a standard patrol, advances into a small village that has been previously cleared of NVA and Vietcong forces.
(https://i.imgur.com/kH2rlRK.jpg)

At the same time an NVA platoon is advancing on the same village to reoccupy it.
(https://i.imgur.com/kfrfnul.jpg)

As the Marine Recon marines come under fire they spread out across the village square. And they call for reinforcements.
(https://i.imgur.com/Hu1yBSj.jpg)

Elements of the NVA advances though the jungle to flank the Recon marines.
(https://i.imgur.com/4eM6hd6.jpg)

And more NVA troops advance out of the jungle. They are now pouring fire into the Recon Marines in the village square.
(https://i.imgur.com/1xmBbqn.jpg)

1st. squad with the platoon Sg arrive with the first chopper.
(https://i.imgur.com/v3JKjol.jpg)

The Recon Marines are still taking heavy fire in the village square and are unable to retur any fire.
(https://i.imgur.com/wMcLLF8.jpg)

1st squad moves up into a hedgerow and the end of the field and guns down an NVA element on a flanking maneuvre.
(https://i.imgur.com/90cm7P7.jpg)

But there is nothing to stop the NVA advancing on the left flank. They pour even more fire into the battered Recon Marines wounding one of them.
(https://i.imgur.com/yi3dObS.jpg)

The Recon Marines are forced to retreat from the heavy and insistent fire coming their way. They even have to abandon their wounded comrade.
(https://i.imgur.com/QrtS5zm.jpg)

Seing the Recon Marines retreat promts the NVA to advance on the village and into one of the houses.
(https://i.imgur.com/LHVwx2K.jpg)

The veteran platoon Sg spots this and calls in some accurate mortar support. Killing and wounding some of the NVA soldiers and forcing the rest to retreat. And setting the house alight.
(https://i.imgur.com/TPtiNnX.jpg)

The Recon Marines have sought some shelter in one of the houses sees the NVA fleeing the burning building and guns them down pinning them in place in the open.
(https://i.imgur.com/AVoCmih.jpg)

But the fire from the house draws attention and the flanking NVA moves up to the house one of the soldiers lobs a frag grenade in through the window. But fumbles it and hits the windowframe instead. The resulting blast pins him i place and wounding his comrade leaving the Recon Marines safe for now.
(https://i.imgur.com/EsXyRcP.jpg)

By now the second chopper with 2nd. squad and the fresh Lt. has arrived. The Lt. has spottet the NVA on a flanking run an redirects the chopper to an alternative LZ to try and outflank the outflankers.
(https://i.imgur.com/RBFQfrw.jpg)

But the Marines of 2nd squad barely make it out of the chopper before they are cut down by savage gunfire from the treline filled with NVA soldiers. This was it for the US forces the casualties where now so high that they had to retreat from the field leaving the village to the NVA.
(https://i.imgur.com/pzRvZt1.jpg)


This was our first game of "No end in sight" and we all really enjoyed it. It is relatively easy to learn and the game mechanics really gives a very nam' ish feel. You get teh sense of a desperate firefight. So we are definately going to try that again.

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: gamer Mac on June 03, 2021, 03:06:51 PM
Very nice photos :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: tomrommel1 on June 03, 2021, 05:17:17 PM
nice indeed
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: Erik on June 03, 2021, 07:37:53 PM
Wow Dr. Z. The photos really capture the feel of the game. I totally second the opinion on the rules. They worked excelently and very smothe. Those recon marines never stod a chance the way I deployed them in the village. The fumbled grenade an was still an awesome moment none the less.

Great game.

Cheers
Erik
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: CapnJim on June 04, 2021, 12:11:03 AM
Great AAR.  And the terrain, figs, and choppers are all quite lovely!

Were the Force Recon boys able to grab their downed guy before they bugged out?  If not, sounds like a rescue mission might have to be in the works...

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: Marine0846 on June 04, 2021, 01:14:13 AM
Excellent AAR.
Love the photos.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: Dr. Zombie on June 04, 2021, 08:01:26 AM
Thanks everyone.

Were the Force Recon boys able to grab their downed guy before they bugged out?  If not, sounds like a rescue mission might have to be in the works...

No, they had to abandon their wounded comrade. So perhaps we will do a rescue mission. The "No end in sight" rules has an extensive campaign and scenario generator. I am sure I can use it to cook up something.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on June 04, 2021, 08:02:26 AM
Brilliant.

That report is a great example of what the hobby is all about for me. Well done sir.  ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: NurgleHH on June 07, 2021, 08:50:22 PM
Great painting and modelling. The rules are a bolt action conversion, right?

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: Dr. Zombie on June 07, 2021, 08:53:18 PM
I don’t think so. But I have never played Bolt action, so who knows?
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: Sparrow on June 08, 2021, 05:29:32 AM
I don’t think so. But I have never played Bolt action, so who knows?

You haven’t missed anything  ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam AAR on page 9
Post by: NurgleHH on June 08, 2021, 11:05:19 AM
Ok, I found it. it is made by Nordic weasel. No Bolt Action.
Title: Next stop Vietnam NVA reinforcements on page 9
Post by: Dr. Zombie on July 26, 2021, 06:24:22 PM
I am comming out of a painting slump. These have been at the semi finished state for a long time. But now they are done and done.
Various command types and RPGs.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZKUmD91.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Md3VWCd.jpg)

And some heavy weaponry.
(https://i.imgur.com/p8BJPos.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam NVA reinforcements on page 9
Post by: CapnJim on July 28, 2021, 04:08:40 PM
Well done, lad!  Way to come out of a slump!  :)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam NVA reinforcements on page 9
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on July 28, 2021, 08:19:41 PM
Excellent   :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam NVA reinforcements on page 9
Post by: tomrommel1 on August 10, 2021, 10:45:06 AM
nice indeed
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam NVA reinforcements on page 9
Post by: CapnJim on August 10, 2021, 04:18:15 PM
Yep!  Tre bien...
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam NVA reinforcements on page 9
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on August 14, 2021, 07:20:58 AM
Cool.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam NVA reinforcements on page 9
Post by: Mason on August 14, 2021, 09:07:09 AM
Great additions, Doc!
 8) 8)

Really enjoyed the AAR too, top drawer.
 :)

Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam NVA reinforcements on page 9
Post by: tomrommel1 on August 16, 2021, 06:35:29 AM
Very nice indeed
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: Dr. Zombie on February 18, 2022, 09:44:43 AM
I have been painting some more of the excellent Empress Nam figures.

Some mortar support for the Marines.
(https://i.imgur.com/cVruc2P.jpg)

And some civilians both unarmed and armed.
(https://i.imgur.com/HZgIP6L.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wXI9dJ9.jpg)

And I also made these quick markers for tunnels.
(https://i.imgur.com/sGP2Bfx.jpg)

And lastly I painted up this guy. He is not from Empress
(https://i.imgur.com/32pYPPX.jpg)
Now I just need some more choppers and some aircav. And a patrol boat...

That comes to a total of 33 minis. That is more than half of what I managed to paint all of last year.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: CapnJim on February 18, 2022, 05:46:53 PM
Nice work on those figs!  Well done.  I gotta break down and get me those civilians...
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: Dr. Zombie on February 20, 2022, 06:17:30 PM
Painted up the four remaining armed civilians to match their unarmed counterparts I already painted earlier. Then two NVA mortars and a USMC radio operator.
(https://i.imgur.com/DTGeTcj.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: CapnJim on February 20, 2022, 07:44:34 PM
Well done!  Again!

And those civilians are now ordered...
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: carlos marighela on February 20, 2022, 09:21:05 PM
I really like the basing mix you are using with those figures. Looks the part.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on February 21, 2022, 10:23:59 AM
SUPERB  :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: tomrommel1 on March 01, 2022, 07:23:03 AM
very nice additions!
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on March 06, 2022, 04:50:13 PM
Nice, less clutter (of a bottles of paint variety) would show them off better ^__^.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: Dr. Zombie on October 10, 2022, 06:57:59 PM
As prepartions for an upcomming game I have painted som vehicles. Both the M113 and the BTR152 are 3d prints.

(https://i.imgur.com/y2evQMB.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/jFzDiy8.jpg)

The Dshk on the BTR is not really accurate. But it is a rescaled 15mm sculpt and the best I could find for a weapon was one intended for DUST.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: Ash on October 10, 2022, 07:42:23 PM
Those two APCs have come out very nicely, and your terrain looks great.
There is a very nice Dshk in Empress pack NVA12 that would really make the BTR pop, the crew would probably fit inside as well.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: Dr. Zombie on October 11, 2022, 06:06:41 AM
There is a very nice Dshk in Empress pack NVA12 that would really make the BTR pop, the crew would probably fit inside as well.

I know i have been eying it. But I need this finished for a game next week. So I couldn’t wait for the post. It might get retrofitted though.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on October 12, 2022, 08:37:23 AM
Excellent work  :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: Sparrow on October 13, 2022, 09:21:23 PM
Nice job
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam VC and USMC reinforcements on page 10
Post by: CapnJim on October 14, 2022, 12:11:15 AM
More great work.  The M113 and the BTR look great. 
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam heavy armour on page 11
Post by: Dr. Zombie on October 15, 2022, 11:16:30 AM
When I started this Vietnam adventure. I told myself, this is purely going to be jungle patrols and no vehicles. And I have been really struggling to not buy any of the lovely Empress vehicles. I am preparing for a big multiplayer game and for that I already printed and painted up the M113 and BTR152. And now somehow this happened...

(https://i.imgur.com/JcEEOLM.jpg)

It is a bit dangerous to have a 3d printer in the house. I downloaded and readied the file thursday night. Started the printer when I left for work friday and painted the beast friday night.

Really I wanted a PBR for the game, but I could not find a decent STL file. And also I really want the one from Empress with the Apocalypse now crew. Perhaps I should get that as a reward for myself for being such a good boy and really sticking to my jungle patrols only rule..
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam heavy armour on page 11
Post by: carlos marighela on October 15, 2022, 10:04:44 PM
Sounds like a plan and makes perfect sense to me!

Lovely work on the track.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam heavy armour on page 11
Post by: Dr. Zombie on October 17, 2022, 03:30:42 PM
I made another M113. I chopped up some spare Marines I had to make some crew. In a pinch they will do.
(https://i.imgur.com/xJQg1Pb.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam heavy armour on page 11
Post by: Grumpy Gnome on October 17, 2022, 05:19:16 PM
Great work on those vehicles mate. I spent a lot of time on M106's and M113's back in the day and models of them always make me nostalgic
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam heavy armour on page 11
Post by: Ash on October 17, 2022, 05:42:43 PM
Good choice of figure for the rear of the M113, looks the part.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam heavy armour on page 11
Post by: CapnJim on October 18, 2022, 07:58:16 PM
Both those latest tracks look really good.  Good work on the crew on that last M113.  They do the trick nicely!
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Battle of Banlah AAR. on page 11
Post by: Dr. Zombie on October 25, 2022, 03:10:15 PM
Battle of Banlah.

An after action report from our recent game. Featuring 6 players and using the unreleased but very nice Badlands rules.

The US Marines launch an assault on a small village suspected to be used as a staging post for an upcomming assault from the NVA.

An overview of the battlefield. The main Marine force is inserted by sea. Force Recon are already deployed near the village. One squad of NVA is guarding the village waiting for reinforcements.
(https://i.imgur.com/Qrr9b7A.jpg)

More NVA pour into the area.
(https://i.imgur.com/TfEacEK.jpg)

As the Marines advance off the beach.
(https://i.imgur.com/AZwDaUi.jpg)

A M113 with 6 Marines also advances from the west.
(https://i.imgur.com/C5Q2IKl.jpg)

And NVA troops start to emerge from the secret tunnel system.
(https://i.imgur.com/7rXJMXw.jpg)

All of a sudden the peaceful village is rocked by a fighterjet dropping napalm on the ZSU AA gun. Killing its commander and suppressing the crew.
(https://i.imgur.com/Jw0Etnq.jpg)

Then a Huey sweeps in dropping of 2 M60 teams. The US attack is gaining momentum. So far the NVA has not fired a shot.
(https://i.imgur.com/e1xRjvd.jpg)

All of a sudden an RPG streaks out from the village just narrowly missing the M113. The crew quickly turn the .50 on the house where the RPG came from and wounds a NVA soldier.
(https://i.imgur.com/wxFFob0.jpg)

But not the RPG gunner, who is quick to reload and this time he finds his mark.
(https://i.imgur.com/9sz8Lqv.jpg)

The dismounted Marines from the M113 are caught in the open by a squad of NVA who emerge from a hidden tunnel. But they are saved from being gunned down by a sudden heavy monsoon rain shower.
(https://i.imgur.com/AfWnE1O.jpg)

As the sudden rain stops another fireteam is inserted by helo. just on the eastern side of the village at the edge of the fields.
(https://i.imgur.com/5fEk1vE.jpg)

Unfortunately for them. It turns out there is a previously unspotted heavy weapons bunker right before them.
(https://i.imgur.com/0hPBf75.jpg)

More and more NVA reinforcements are starting to join the fight via the tunnel network.
(https://i.imgur.com/9wulIcR.jpg)

Even with an armored troop transport a BTR152. Unfortunately for it it gets bogged down in a desperate firefight with the Marine force recon element.
(https://i.imgur.com/6K6ipXn.jpg)

The Marines have yet to engage any NVA troops in combat. But they are starting to take losses. While crossing a field a Marine steps on a landmine. He is instantly killed an the one next to him is wounded and one other becomes suppressed.
(https://i.imgur.com/Os77WxV.jpg)

The Marines call in firesupport from on call artillery. On the house where the RPG attack came from. It kills one NVA and wounds a civilian.
(https://i.imgur.com/1JaecaT.jpg)

But again the RPG gunner is left unharmed and he rushes out of the burning building. And as he does so he pops a shot at a MG team across the fields. Wounding them both.
(https://i.imgur.com/hedxPdf.jpg)

Meanwhile a massive firefight have broken out between the Marines from the M113 and a squad of NVA from the tunnels. So intense in fact that they do not notice that the fires started by the napalm is spreading around them.
(https://i.imgur.com/VieTBRP.jpg)

The NVA squad from the BTR152 have given up on winning a firefight against the force recon marines. So they fix bayonets and charge in. with some initial success.
(https://i.imgur.com/kvKNRAu.jpg)

The fire from the napalm spreads even further. In fact blocking the Marines from entering the village.
(https://i.imgur.com/TzEIjq3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kZWQCQN.jpg)

The NVA has managed so set up some mortars and as they fire on some Marines just clearing the treeline devastating them and at the same time the fireteam that landed on the east of the village is gunned down by the combined efforts of the heavy machine gun bunker and a squad of NVA. The game ends. The Marines are unable to reach the village and are forced to retreat.
(https://i.imgur.com/9ANEYfp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/s66L8sB.jpg)

But the Marines who reach home base can report 10 NVA killed and only 8 Marines.




 



 




Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Battle of Banlah AAR. on page 11
Post by: Paul @ Empress Miniatures on October 27, 2022, 09:45:35 AM
 :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*

Especially love the explosions  ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Battle of Banlah AAR. on page 11
Post by: CapnJim on October 27, 2022, 05:53:15 PM
Great battle report.  Unless you were the Marines, that is...
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Battle of Banlah AAR. on page 11
Post by: Sparrow on October 27, 2022, 07:11:17 PM
Nice !
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam Battle of Banlah AAR. on page 11
Post by: Grumpy Gnome on October 28, 2022, 02:49:06 AM
Looks and sounds like a brilliant game! 👍
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: Dr. Zombie on June 22, 2023, 07:41:33 PM
We are about to start a Vietnam campaign using the Force on force rules.

But I realized that I was a few Marines short of a full platoon. So I ordered some more an quickly painted them up.
(https://i.imgur.com/sLAWPqT.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: carlos marighela on June 22, 2023, 09:19:15 PM
 :-* Nicely done! That's a wonderfully damp looking forest floor effect and the minis are nicely painted.

You might want to trim the aerials on the radios though. With the PRC-25 and PRC-77 radios you typically got two aerials*. One was a 3 foot flat aerial, rather like a metal tape measure, which could be folded over and secured with an elastic band, most typically used on the move. For static roles there was a 10 foot rod aerial, that disassembled into various parts. It wasn't flexible in the sense that it bent or curled as the aerial sections were hollow metal tube structures held together with a connecting internal cord. Only a idiot would attempt to walk around in scrub or jungle with the 10 foot aerial extended, in fact just walking around with 10 foot of metal tubing connected to your shoulders is a minor test in balance.



*There was a third 'jungle aerial' for extended range which is essentially a wire that could be strung up on a tree or a frame but you really do have to be static to use that.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: Russ justice on June 23, 2023, 06:35:26 PM
Real grimey looking fellas, you've captured the look perfectly.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: CapnJim on June 23, 2023, 09:07:44 PM
Those fellas do look really good.  But in the Picking Nits Department. I would echo Mr. Marighela's comments about the length of the antennae.  Mind you, they're your figs so do as it pleases ya... :D
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: Dr. Zombie on June 23, 2023, 09:23:59 PM
Im just going by reference picures I found online, most have the end of the antennas out of frame. But those who have not they look kind of long.
(https://i.imgur.com/jPfnTH4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oKqr5jP.jpg)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: carlos marighela on June 24, 2023, 02:58:24 AM
Those are the flat metal whip antennas. About 3 foot long plus the goose neck.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on June 25, 2023, 07:26:21 AM
Nice work on those figures.
Thanks for the radio aerial information Carlos.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: carlos marighela on June 25, 2023, 10:02:28 AM
Glad it's of use. Spent quite enough time humping a real one around.  They are heavy, as are the batteries :'(
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: Grumpy Gnome on June 25, 2023, 10:13:55 AM
I agree with Carlos and Captain Jim. As Carlos, I have “humped” a “prick-77” (PRC77) for a fair bit and it was not a good time for my scrawny younger self.

What was fun was the old gag of telling the new private that there is a problem with the radio and to go ask the platoon sergeant for a new “prick E-7”.

Right up there with bubble grease for the mortar sight and helium packets for the M16a2 buttstock compartment.

I most remember the aerial on mine being usually like the one in the second picture, bent down over my left shoulder.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: carlos marighela on June 25, 2023, 01:04:28 PM
We typically put the damn thing in the top section of our big pack and would swap it around. Whoever got the radio swapped packs with the one with the radio in it.

Being of an unkind disposition I once swapped my pack with one of my diggers while we were on enemy party. He expressed considerable surprise at the weight of my pack but his concerns were assuaged by the assurance that I had loaded the better part of a slab of beer into my pack.

Considerable surprise was feigned when we finally reached our night harbour and the contents of my pack were revealed to include M113 track link we had found on the range. That notorious soldier Private Somecunt 's work was suspected. 'Jesus some c%#t has robbed my beer and replaced it this this piece of shit!' I mean what dickhead would put the better part of 30 pounds of metal into their own pack? ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: Grumpy Gnome on June 25, 2023, 02:13:54 PM
One thing I love about soldiers… no matter the nation so often the themes remain the same.
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: CapnJim on June 25, 2023, 06:31:54 PM
For fear of going off-topic, we used to send FNGs to get a can of squelch for the radio, or a box of reticles for the tank sights... 8)

But nit-picking aside, and as I mentioned, those minis do look really good!   ;)
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: Grumpy Gnome on June 25, 2023, 07:20:50 PM
For fear of going off-topic, we used to send FNGs to get a can of squelch for the radio, or a box of reticles for the tank sights... 8)

But nit-picking aside, and as I mentioned, those minis do look really good!   ;)

I forgot about the can of squelch, thanks for the reminder.

And I agree, the minis look really good!
Title: Re: Next stop Vietnam, reinforcements on page 12
Post by: mikedemana on June 26, 2023, 07:09:21 PM
Great looking figs!

Your gags sound similar to what we did in my work as ground crew with an airline. We'd send new employees to other airlines to borrow their "chock hardener" for the triangular, rubber chocks we secured aircraft wheels with. Typically, they'd forward them on to another airline in an endless round of initiation. Or, to the Maintenance Department for a bin extender if we had a heavy load to go on an upcoming flight.  lol lol

Mike Demana