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Miniatures Adventure => Pulp => Topic started by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 03, 2022, 07:39:55 AM

Title: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 03, 2022, 07:39:55 AM
The true bit…

On 7th April, 1921, a certain Captain Charles de Gaulle married Yvonne Charlotte Anne-Marie Vendroux in the Notre-Dame de Calais church. By the time of the German invasion of France in May 1940, they had had three children, Philippe (aged 19 in 1940), Élisabeth (aged 16 in 1940) and Anne (aged 12 in 1940).

(https://i.imgur.com/uLrGlW3.jpg)

Charles de Gaulle had already visited Churchill on two occasions before the fall of France. The intention at that time was to evacuate half a million French soldiers to French North Africa, in order to carry on the war. On the 17th June, de Gaulle escaped to England in an RAF aeroplane. On his meeting with Prime Minister Winston Churchill that afternoon, it was agreed that the British would attempt to rescue Mme de Gaulle and the three children.

Mme de Gaulle was assumed to be in Carentec on the Rade de Morlaix but no one knew for sure. Such was the swift advance of the German 4th Army under General von Kluge, that communications were sporadic to say the least.

Major Norman Hope, head of Belgian Section of Section D SIS, was sent to Plymouth to effect the rescue.

He flew out on the 18th June in a Supermarine Walrus L2312, piloted by Flt Lt John Bell with Flt Sgt Charles Harris as Wireless Electrical Mechanic, and Corporal Bernard Nowell, but nothing was heard and they did not return. Months later it was relayed by the International Red Cross, that the plane had crashed in fog, miles from its destination and they were all now buried in Ploudaniel Churchyard in Brittany. The aircraft crew were the first casualties of the RAAF in WWII.

(https://i.imgur.com/bp8biE2.jpg)

A Belgian  RNVR officer named Van Riel, who had been serving as deputy to the missing Major Hope in Section D of the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS or M16), was sent to Plymouth to make a further attempt to find de Gaulle's family and discover what had happened to the Walrus. He had in peacetime been the secretary of a Belgian yacht club. Assuming the name 'Vann' for cover purposes, he sailed from Plymouth that evening, 19 June, in MTB 29, a 70-foot Vosper boat which had only been commissioned at the beginning of that month and was commanded by Lt Kit James, son of Admiral Sir William James, CinC Portsmouth.

(https://i.imgur.com/7mynUNa.jpg)

He landed at Carentec at 0600 the next day. He found that the first German troops had appeared in the village nearly 24 hours before, and that the de Gaulle family had left.

Vann had thought of taking the MTB up to Morlaix to seek news of Hope and the missing Walrus, but they had already been spotted by hostile aircraft and it would have been folly to pursue the search further in broad daylight, into what had evidently become enemy held territory, so they returned to Plymouth.

This is where the fictional part of our story begins, with the de Gaulles missing, possibly interned by the German forces. On a sojourn to Vagabond Manor, I was privileged to partake in a wonderful game, planned by my inestimable friend Vaggers. Although Doug was unable to be present, he had made certain contributions to the game (of which we shall hear later) and it was played out in the true spirit of the Gentlemen of Much-Piddling. Before we proceed to the fictional part of our story, you should know the true ending of this saga, as far as escape was concerned.

Mme de Gaulle had in fact taken her children and the maid into Brest on 17th June, before the arrival of the German vanguard. She borrowed money from an aunt who lived there and sought news of her husband at the British Vice-Consulate, which was closing down. Staff advised her to embark on one of the last two ships sailing for England, one Polish, one British. The de Gaulles took passage in the latter and reached Falmouth safely on 19 June: they were therefore in England before MTB 29 sailed to find them. Fate played a hand in their choice of transport as the Polish ship was sunk on the way over.

...and now, onto the mayhem!
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 03, 2022, 08:59:35 AM
It should be stated that this AAR will be written jointly by Major Johnny Vagabond SBS and Major Lord Hereward Carew ‘Tubby’ Snapcase SAS. Both these distinguished warriors took part in the rescue attempt of Mme de Gaulle and this is their story.

We played the game cooperatively, using Black Ops rules and determining German guard actions between us. The figures, rules and action plan were provided by Snappers, the scenery and scenario were provided by Vaggers. We will take equal blame for this AAR. Of course, it goes without saying, if all goes well, then Vaggers will take all the credit!

So, here we are, safely back in the fictional world. Knowing that the real Mme de Gaulle manged to make it to safety with her children, we can relax. Whatever sort of balls-up Vaggers and Tubby make of the rescue attempt, will now be revealed, in all its glory.

Unknown to history (due to the Official Secrets Act) there was a second rescue attempt made by sea. Commander Jolyon Pugwash sailed in MGB 69 on the same night as MTB29 but to a different destination. His Navigator was 1st Lieutenant Montmorency Toastrack a playboy of the old school. Eaton, I believe, although he always denied it, stating some god-awful Public School in Scotland was his Alma Mater.

(https://i.imgur.com/Wu9rDF6.jpg)

Toastrack knew the small harbours of Northern Brittany as well as any Englishman alive and this knowledge would prove invaluable in making their way past the Ile de Brehat to a small internment camp, built by the French before the war, on the banks of the Trieux River.

The probable location of Mme de Gaulle had been revealed to Johnny and Tubby at a secret briefing  in a small office at 54 Broadway, off Victoria Street, London. This of course, was the headquarters of MI6 and the office belonged to Sir Douglas D’Emfore.

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

Sir Douglas ‘Dapper’ D’Emfore, MI6

Sir Douglas informed the pair that von Kluge had given orders to round up all members of the French Authorities and hold them at the aforementioned internment camp. If Mme de Gaulle had been captured, this is where she would have been taken. If finding one woman and three children in the chaos that was Northern France in June 1940 was like looking for a needle in a haystack, this was as good a place to start as any.

Sir Douglas gave them a reconnaissance photo taken by the RAF, showing the layout of the camp,

(https://i.imgur.com/mq3bseu.jpg)

…and also, a colourised version, which might come in handy, concocted by the RAF back-room boffins.

(https://i.imgur.com/h4NzFqq.jpg)

“This is about as much knowledge as I can pass on to you, chaps”, reflected Sir Douglas. “I want you two to pick a few useful types from your respective units, get yourselves over to France and bring back our French guest’s family. Orders of Winny, so make it snappy, chaps!”.

...to be continued...
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: has.been on November 03, 2022, 09:25:41 AM
I look forward to part two.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 03, 2022, 12:04:44 PM
I look forward to part two.

Your wish is my command!

After rigorous selection, Johnny and Tubby narrow down their selection to a few chaps (and one chapess). The overall plan involves a two-pronged attack, the SAS landing by boat upriver and moving towards the camp on foot. The SBS will take to their Folbots from the same boat, but then paddle downriver and infiltrate the camp from the rear.

This is a photograph of the SBS who were training on Dartmoor to survive the rigours of a Southern summer, note the smiles on their faces.

From the left we have The Honourable Redvers ‘Badger’ Hamster-Crust, next Captain Jolyon Pugwash, then the Commander of this motley crew, Major Johnny Vagabond. The rubber fetishist on his left is CPO Jonty Mountfalcon, who served 3 years at His Majesties pleasure for some deviant behaviour after the war. The tall upright chap carrying the dynamite is the navigator, 1st Lieutenant Montmorency Toastrack, he went on to a long and illustrious career as a West End Safecracker, before retiring to deepest darkest Dorsetshire and finally we have Uriah Chickenstalker with the Bren on the right, a bit of an enigma wrapped up in a mystery is this one.

(https://i.imgur.com/CkTU1E3.jpg)

The other half of the rescue team are these chaps from the SAS. Again, from the left we have Lady Verity ‘Peaches’ Snapcase, MI6 agent and Tubby's niece, then the chap with the fag in the corner of his mouth is Sergeant Frobisher Cocklecarrot and in the centre is Captain Dougie ‘Stodger’ D’Emfore (Dougie is the son of Sir Douglas), wearing his traditional brown fighting trousers and carrying a silenced Welrod. The stern looking chap next to him is the commander of the SAS and the officer in charge of the operation, Major Lord Hereward Carew ‘Tubby’ Snapcase. The last member of this illustrious crew is Corporal Tarquin Shortcake one of the lesser branches of the famous Cupcake family, who have been supporters of the Crown since 1066, receding foreheads and short-sightedness run in the family, don’t you know.

(https://i.imgur.com/lTbSnc9.jpg)

It is perhaps totally inappropriate to show the alter egos of Major Johnny Vagabond (By Strength and Guile) on the right and the infamous buccaneer Major Lord Hereward Carew ‘Tubby’ Snapcase (Who Dares, Wins), pictured without his braided beard or the firecrackers in his hair on the left. However, appropriate or not, here it is. Look away now, those of a nervous disposition!

(https://i.imgur.com/c7Xjjuh.jpg)

The game is afoot. As night falls, the brave SBS paddle up the Trieux River in three Folbots. Major Johnny Vagabond valiantly leads the small fleet of canoes.

(https://i.imgur.com/UBmH6Yz.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/T4i5pxH.jpg)

Tubby leads the SAS/MI6 contingent towards the camp overland.

(https://i.imgur.com/02pztUH.jpg)

...to be continued...
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 03, 2022, 12:20:23 PM
I forgot to mention that Johnny and Tubby had agreed that radio silence must be maintained between the two groups during the mission. To avoid a ‘blue-on-blue’ incident, the two groups have outfitted themselves with children’s clickers, called ‘crickets’. Tubby had purchased a handful in Hamleys in Regent Street, after the briefing. These were to become famous later in the war, being used by the paratroopers on D-Day.

(https://i.imgur.com/g0W25XL.jpg)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPfjPmdtLFQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPfjPmdtLFQ)
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Kourtchatovium104 on November 03, 2022, 02:31:40 PM
Original! I hope these gentlemen can rescue "Tante Yvonne" as she was nicknamed in France  lol
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Poiter50 on November 03, 2022, 02:42:37 PM
Can we get a close up of the walls and fencing for the compound? I have those buildings but lack inspiration for the fences. ;) ;)
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Vagabond on November 03, 2022, 03:08:03 PM
Brilliant introduction Snappers you've gone above and beyond this time old chap. Looking forward to seeing the next instalment. I'll have to pull my finger out of some dystopian version of Frostgrave and crack on with the SBS official history of the action to provide the 4th or 5th reel of this block buster you're creating.

Original! I hope these gentlemen can rescue "Tante Yvonne" as she was nicknamed in France  lol

When Snappers and Vaggers with intel from Douggers set their mind to a task, you can be sure it will be undertaken in a competent and professional manner.

Before descending into total chaos.  ;)

Can we get a close up of the walls and fencing for the compound? I have those buildings but lack inspiration for the fences. ;) ;)

Poiter have a look further down the Pulp board, they appear in a couple of my posts The Great Escape - The Camp and The Great Escape -The Game, if you want anything else just shout.



Cheers
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 03, 2022, 03:19:10 PM
Can we get a close up of the walls and fencing for the compound? I have those buildings but lack inspiration for the fences. ;) ;)

Also, there are some close-ups coming here of the wire fence, as the SAS cut it. I believe the SBS bods climbed over the wall, so there should be photos of that later, too.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: marianas_gamer on November 03, 2022, 07:54:25 PM
I for one embrace the chaos of the "gentlemen" from Much Piddling. lol lol Crack on Boys crack on.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: fred on November 03, 2022, 09:33:08 PM
Very cool!

Great pictures (well with one obvious exception, that perhaps should have come with a warning!)
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Elk101 on November 03, 2022, 10:45:08 PM
Excellent! I look forward to the action unfolding.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Poiter50 on November 03, 2022, 11:53:38 PM
 lol ;) :) ;D

Also, there are some close-ups coming here of the wire fence, as the SAS cut it. I believe the SBS bods climbed over the wall, so there should be photos of that later, too.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: blacksoilbill on November 04, 2022, 05:15:05 AM
Marvellous stuff!
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: OSHIROmodels on November 04, 2022, 08:27:09 AM
Excellent fun  :)
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: traveller on November 04, 2022, 09:54:51 AM
Wow! This is exciting!  :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Weird WWII on November 04, 2022, 09:42:53 PM
Great looking stuff!

Brian
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 07, 2022, 08:56:59 AM
Thank you all, for your very kind comments.

Now, I should explain at this juncture, that Mme de Gaulle’s location within the camp had been chosen by Doug, so I had no idea which hut she was being detained in. During the planning stage, Vaggers and Tubby had agreed to search three huts each. Using the photo below, Tubby took huts A, B and C. Vaggers and his SBS johnnies took huts D, E and F.

Firstly, the reconnaissance photo from the RAF.

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

…and then the detailed map from the planning session. During the planning session, Vaggers and Tubby felt the need to stimulate their little grey cells and indulged in copious quantities of wine and nibbles. This sinew-stiffening session produced the following detailed plan of attack.

(https://i.imgur.com/A9Su4JS.jpg)

So, once again, Commander Jolyon Pugwash sailed in MGB 69 from Plymouth and anchored at dead of night in the River Trieux.

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

After synchronising watches, the SAS were ferried ashore in inflatable boats, whilst Johnny Vagabond and his chaps set off in their folbots.

(https://i.imgur.com/a3Rj8rw.jpg)

The next part of the report will be taken from Tubby’s War Diary and will focus on the activities of the SAS in the early part of the mission. Vaggers will then contribute an account of the doings of the ‘Rum, Bum and Baccy’ boys. This will take us up to where the two groups joined forces for the denouement of this epic tale.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 07, 2022, 09:56:12 AM
Here we can see the starting points for the mission and some of the German guards. The disposition of the guards within the camp was also decided by Doug. The SAS are just visible, top left and the SBS are top right.

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

Using the Black Ops rules also put a percentage of the guards outside of the camp. Although the commandant of the camp, one SS-Gruppenführer Zwickel von Kinnriemen (front centre on the photograph) was on site, his SS guards were in the nearest village, searching for an escaped prisoner.

(https://i.imgur.com/v2Q7Etb.jpg)

Should the alarm go off, they were tasked to return to the camp at speed. The Heer guards on duty were what might be termed the sick, lame and lazy and were not best pleased to be on duty on a cold and dark night. It was no surprise that some of them took shelter from the wind and had a crafty fag, in the sentry box. Expressly against von Kinnriemen’s orders, I should add.

(https://i.imgur.com/nrkL4YT.jpg)

Tubby leads his team towards the wire.

(https://i.imgur.com/VeT1y2j.jpg)

They pause at the wire and detect a guard who appears to be singing whilst using the lavatorial facilities. “There’s a goon on the shitter”, whispered Tubby, “let’s get this wire cut”.

(https://i.imgur.com/EKH96og.jpg)

Peaches and Cocklecarrot are through the wire in one hole, whilst Stodger has cut his way in and is covering the lavatory with his silenced Welrod pistol.

(https://i.imgur.com/2P5YqGS.jpg)

As the guard emerges, still fastening his greatcoat, Stodger uses his Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife, resulting in a silent kill. The SAS are now in the camp proper, ready like coiled-string, for anything!

(https://i.imgur.com/W2hwKPs.jpg)

...to be continued...
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Doug ex-em4 on November 07, 2022, 03:45:45 PM
This is AARing of the highest class, Snappers. My excitementometer is already glowing red hot and smoking slightly. Can’t wait for more of this tale of derring-do…..!

Doug
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Vagabond on November 07, 2022, 08:02:07 PM
As the guard emerges, still fastening his greatcoat, Stodger uses his Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife, resulting in a silent kill. The SAS are now in the camp proper, ready like coiled-string, for anything!

I believe that rather sums up the SAS contingent perfectly.  ;)

I'm pleased that I persuaded you to refrain from actually cutting the wire, even though it would have made a great picture.

Another entertaining episode in the saga.

Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Johnnytodd on November 07, 2022, 11:38:10 PM
Love this!
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: wolfen on November 08, 2022, 04:56:26 AM
Very exciting stuff! Excited for the next part.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 08, 2022, 08:39:08 AM
Thank you all and we continue with the stalking of the next guard.

Now, the observant amongst you will have noticed a lonely sentry up in the watch-tower, overlooking all of the camp. Although it’s dark, if this fellow is on the ball, he could set off the alarm.

(https://i.imgur.com/rp67c4r.jpg)

Peaches decides that he has to be the next guard to start pushing up the daisies! Stealthily, she climbs onto the roof of the adjacent hut.

(https://i.imgur.com/e0sBg2a.jpg)

She’s armed (amongst other things) with a Welrod and this needs to be a silent kill. There are several guards patrolling the perimeter and no doubt Johnny Vagabond is fooling about on the wall somewhere, at this very moment. Silence is essential. She has the guard in sight. but needs to get closer for this vital shot, there’s only going to be one chance.

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

She makes her way up to the apex of the roof, takes aim and … (dramatic pause) … the guard is down, he’s shuffled off this mortal coil. [Now, it has to be said that this looks very unlikely. However, as Vaggers will testify, we followed all the rules for weapons, ranges etc. and it happened!]

(https://i.imgur.com/l1117TY.jpg)

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

...to be continued...
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 08, 2022, 09:02:15 AM
This now opens up the way for Tubby and the boys to have a look at the main gate. This one could be a bit tricky. There is a guard in the sentry box and also one further up the fence line. They need to take the guard out in the box, without alerting the other guard. Tubby hits on a cunning plan.

(https://i.imgur.com/HJe44z2.jpg)

Tubby applies his considerable bulk to the weight on the gate and the barrier slowly rises. To the German guard, it appears that a ghost is lifting the barrier, as Tubby is out of the sentry’s line of vision.

(https://i.imgur.com/EtGzS02.jpg)

The sentry steps out to investigate…

(https://i.imgur.com/xuhW4MO.jpg)

…and again, Stodger does the deed with the Fairbairn-Sykes.

(https://i.imgur.com/4I0xpud.jpg)

Another guard down and by Jingo, no alarm given yet. Are the rescuers actually going to succeed in this madcap mission? We shall see, in the next thrilling episode.

...to be continued...
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 08, 2022, 09:56:12 AM
Shortcake is dispatched to have a gander into building C, which Tubby believes to be the guard house. Carefully looking in the window, Tarquin lets out a low whistle, although the room is in darkness, he can make out the shapes of several sleeping guards on bunks. He makes his way back to report to Tubby. “Germans, boss, at least 6 or 7, looks like they are kipping”. Tubby decides to leave the guard house for the moment. It has all the signs of a noisy affair. He elects to move on towards the Commandant’s quarters and deal with the guard there first.

SS-Gruppenführer Zwickel von Kinnriemen, unaware of the unexpected demise of several of his sentries, is getting a bit of shuteye in his office/accommodation. Being a Gruppenführer, he gets to luxuriate in a double bed, with Egyptian cotton sheets.

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

Meanwhile, the guard outside, shivers in his greatcoat, lights up a blower and dreams of the camp’s second-in-command, SS-Obersturmbannführer Brynhildr von Busen [who is not only very scary, but way out of his league!].

(https://i.imgur.com/FIDx3iN.jpg)

Having disposed of the sentry by the wire, the SAS/MI6 contingent, gather around the Commandant’s hut.

(https://i.imgur.com/RGpD0lt.jpg)

Stodger peers inside but can’t make out much. Tubby decides to take the bull by the horns, so to speak and tiptoes into the hallowed sanctuary of von Kinnriemen. He discovers the slumbering form of the Commandant in his pit. The others wait anxiously outside.

(https://i.imgur.com/dfl5IOc.jpg)

No room for sentiment here. Tubby places the barrel of Welrod close the sleeping head of the Commandant and pulls the trigger. Another inhabitant of the camp goes to meet his maker and silence is maintained.

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

As Tubby searches the office for any evidence of Mme de Gaulle’s location, Cocklecarrot, D’Emfore and Shortcake move towards the hospital hut.

(https://i.imgur.com/3STeogl.jpg)

Peaches, who is also carrying the team’s Bren gun, takes position in the watch-tower. A good position to dominate the camp in case a fire-fight breaks out.

(https://i.imgur.com/INR6Yc7.jpg)

Having cleared the hospital hut and found nothing, the SAS boys confer. Tubby dispatches Captain D’Emfore to rendezvous with Vaggers and his sailor boys. Stodger has his clicker ready, to avoid being shot by his own side. Tubby’s message is to meet up at the guard house and decide what happens next, should Vaggers have failed to find Mme de Gaulle.

I now hand you over to the gentle ministrations of Johnny Vagabond, to bring you up to date with the river-borne infiltration. No doubt, more stirring tales of derring-do!

...to be continued...
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Doug ex-em4 on November 08, 2022, 01:27:20 PM
An extraordinary shot from Peaches with a Welrod at that range. Still, we apparently have Vaggers to attest to the veracity of this claim so it must be true….!

And now we look forward to hearing from the man himself and his sailors - this just gets better and better.

Doug
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Vagabond on November 08, 2022, 11:09:15 PM
An extraordinary shot from Peaches with a Welrod at that range. Still, we apparently have Vaggers to attest to the veracity of this claim so it must be true….!

And now we look forward to hearing from the man himself and his sailors - this just gets better and better.

Doug

As you know Peaches is an extraordinary person,  and climbing on the roof of a wooden hut and making the shot is what she does best. The claim is perfectly justified. although the Mad Lord was reading and interpreting the rules, I just nodded and agreed because we seemed to be doing so well.

There will unfortunately be a short intermission in the Mad Lords storyline as I make my way further North to the North Yorks Moors, a wild place with I believe little to no internet facility.

I hope the wait to hear how my jolly jack tars performed will be worth it.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: marianas_gamer on November 09, 2022, 08:13:03 PM
On the edge of my chair!
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: FifteensAway on November 10, 2022, 03:19:36 AM
In that first image of the game report, with the two rescue groups near the top of the shot, there seems to be some sort of red rimmed barge and some odd contraption to the viewer's right midway between the two groups.  Maybe I need to hunt up my spectacles and maybe even ring up my optometrist!

Fun stuff, lads.  Did I just call you lot "lads"?  So it seems.   lol ;D :o :D ;)

Now, what is taking Vagabond so long?!  Isn't he back from his travels already!?   :)
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: has.been on November 10, 2022, 09:25:09 AM
Quote
In that first image of the game report, with the two rescue groups near the top of the shot, there seems to be some sort of red rimmed barge and some odd contraption to the viewer's right midway between the two groups.  Maybe I need to hunt up my spectacles and maybe even ring up my optometrist!

looks like someone's mobile phone.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: syrinx0 on November 12, 2022, 05:57:40 AM
Now, what is taking Vagabond so long?!  Isn't he back from his travels already!?   :)

Indeed the suspense is quite nerve wracking.  I shall have to indulge in a few cocktails to bring the tension down to a manageable level.  Why would one travel to these North Yorks Moors where there is no internet? Perhaps its one of those restorative spiritual retreats one reads about in the Sunday adverts?
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 12, 2022, 08:16:36 AM
Quote
Why would one travel to these North Yorks Moors where there is no internet? Perhaps its one of those restorative spiritual retreats one reads about in the Sunday adverts?

Or maybe it's because he's going undercover on some dangerous mission?   ;)
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Elk101 on November 12, 2022, 09:04:01 AM
Great report! I was surprised to see the commandant removed so quickly. It makes we wonder if someone worse is waiting?
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Doug ex-em4 on November 12, 2022, 10:41:35 AM
Or maybe it's because he's going undercover on some dangerous mission?   ;)
His dangerous missions usually involve underwear rather than undercover…..

Doug
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: FifteensAway on November 12, 2022, 02:36:15 PM
For has.been: my question was, shall we say, very tongue in cheek - and maybe outright cheeky, the clues being in asking about spectacles and ringing someone.   lol. Hoist on your own petard, methinks!  :D

Okay, so Vagabond may have gone off on a secret mission and did some "finding himself" stuff but he still needs to get his "rear in gear" and get us the rest of the story!

Or so say I.  Before syrinx suffers from an excess of suspense.  That just won't do.  ;)
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Bravo Six on November 12, 2022, 05:58:31 PM
What an amazing adventure Snappy! Great AAR and the figures and terrain are inspiring to say the least.

Bravo!!  :-*
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: CapnJim on November 13, 2022, 07:34:00 PM
Well, so far so good.  For our intrepid heroes and heroines, anyway.  Not so much for the dastardly baddies.  I await further installments in this fascinating affair.

As you know Peaches is an extraordinary person,  and climbing on the roof of a wooden hut and making the shot is what she does best. The claim is perfectly justified. although the Mad Lord was reading and interpreting the rules, I just nodded and agreed because we seemed to be doing so well.

To my way of thinking, there is no need to justify this extraordinary shot.  So go the fortunes of war(games).  Something similarly unexpected happed in a modern game in which I played. I was leading a band of modern-day commandoes into a camp somewhere in Africa.  My sniper couldn't be bothered to hit the tower sentry at whom he was shooting, so my ground commander had to take said sentry out with an unlikely burst from his suppressed MP5.  From the ground.  Which he did.  So I for one believe that claim!   
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Vagabond on November 14, 2022, 07:07:08 PM
There seems to be an undue level of excitement over Tubby Snapcases story about his chaps in the SAS. To give them their due they performed adequately with the exception of Peaches who is exceptional as Dougers will attest.

I have returned from the very grim north to the - just grim north and can indulge myself in hot water, central heating and internet, more I can not say.

Fifteensaway did you see our Viking raid game, the one where the Mad Lords glasses case stood in for a Viking ship..... I thought not or you wouldn't ask about a mobil phone, that stood in for MGB69.

Indeed the suspense is quite nerve wracking.  I shall have to indulge in a few cocktails to bring the tension down to a manageable level.  Why would one travel to these North Yorks Moors where there is no internet? Perhaps its one of those restorative spiritual retreats one reads about in the Sunday adverts?

Syrinx you will need to calm down or it could lead to an embarasing situation.

Thanks to everyone else for their comments, I'll attempt to lower the tone of the Mad Lords post fairly soon, before he produces the final crescendo of his Opus Magnus
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: mikedemana on November 15, 2022, 03:10:04 AM
Great stuff! The heroes are so surprisingly...competent!  lol

Or maybe it's just the affair with the truck bursting through the camp gate in another tale that can't be scoured from my memory...!

Mike Demana
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Vagabond on November 15, 2022, 12:16:49 PM
My apologies for the delay in picking up the baton from Tubby Snapcase but “Better Late Than Never”, is I think, the SAS motto so that will have to suffice as my excuse I’m afraid.

My text is below the pictures rather than above.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122123301-56904713.jpeg)
Just to give a little context this is an over view of the camp and my chaps are coming from the river on the left hand side and my chaps are the SBS although I don't think they'd been formed at this time. I'll have to check.
My task is to search and clear the Cooler and two large huts on the river side of the compound.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120217-568851503.jpeg)
Having left the relative safety of MGB69 the cockleshell hero’s led by Major Johnny Vagabond paddled up the Trieux River, they had the camp walls on their right hand side and the unknown on their left.

Knowing the reputation of the cunning Camp Kommandant, Baron Graff Von Dougers the chaps were paddling extremely quietly. At any moment they were expecting the dark night would be illuminated by a concealed machine gun post opening fire as they drew level with it, shredding their canoes and worse still – shredding them.

This fortunately didn’t happen, although it was a nerve wracking 30 minutes paddle for the chaps.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120217-568872226.jpeg)
The raid was timed just before high water and they were being gently pushed up the river as the tide rose helping conserve energy for what lay ahead.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120217-568881964.jpeg)
Peering intently through the gloom 1st Lt Toastrack saw the small bend in the river that he’d identified as the best landing point, some where they could breakout from the incoming tidal flow without getting swept on up stream.
Patting Vagabond on the right shoulder and indicating with a twirl of his right hand that this was the place the bold duo pulled into shore as the tide pushed them gently against the river bank.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120217-568891468.jpeg)
All of the crew scrambled quickly out of the kayaks and the four men designated to go over first moved quietly to the cover provided by the wall. Vaggers and Toastrack were on the left with Hampster-Crust and Jonty Mountfalcon over on the right.
The Bren took up a defensive firing position off to their left and behind a convenient tree. He would remain there to cover the retreat if it became necessary. Jolyon Pugwash provided additional backup for the initial assault in case the move over the wall was detected by the enemy guards and things got hot. He would follow the assault team over the wall once they’d cleared the first line of the enemy.

You will have appreciated already that the SAS had the unenviable approach to a wire fence, not knowing who might see them as they crossed the open ground but once there, they could cut the wire knowing what they might face. However the SBS had a solid concrete wall to overcome, they could use it to cover their advance but the final vinegar strokes would take them over the wall into the unknown.

Death or glory boys……death or glory.   It’s a better motto than the SAS “Better late than never” don’t you think?

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120217-568902482.jpeg)
The walls of the compound had been hurriedly constructed and this was the view that Jonty Mountfalcon had through a gap in the wall. Raising his hand for attention he did the two fingers pointing at his eyes and then one finger pointing at the gap in the wall.

If you look carefully you will see what he saw, a German guard having a crafty fag and facing into the compound.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120309-568912040.jpeg)
Nodding to show he understood Vaggers decided that as time was short they would have to take some chances.

Hampster-Crust cupped his hands together and gave Vaggers a leg up to peer over the wall. There was nothing between the Cooler and the middle hut but in the dark he couldn’t see the wire on the other side of the compound, even so it all looked clear ahead and to his left.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120309-568922197.jpeg)
But to his right was the German guard, fortunately still enjoying his quite fag and no doubt thinking of the petite French waitress at the local restaurant or Brunhilde the Ordinance Clerk at Battalion HQ or some other engrossing dream, so engrossing that he never noticed Vaggers appear above the wall and then disappear back down.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120309-568931948.jpeg)
Vaggers dropped out of sight just as the Guard finished his fag and turned to continue his circuit of the walls.

This was all the information the intrepid Major needed and Vaggers signalled to Jonty and Badger to make their move.

Jonty was boosted over the wall and landed quiet as a slippery eel behind the guard. He had his Fairburn Sykes knife held firmly in his left hand. Moving forward cautiously he reached out with his right hand and pulled the guard back onto the knife at the same time crushing his windpipe to stop the inevitable call for help.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120309-568941713.jpeg)
Professionally done without a sound being uttered the Guard died quietly and Jonty let him slip slowly to the floor.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120309-568951921.jpeg)
The rest of the boys followed Jonty over and spread out along the wall and Jolyon moved from his covering position joining them.

With his trusty knife still in his left hand Jonty moved towards the door of the Cooler, trying the handle with his right, he was not surprised to find it locked.
Vaggers split right to the door of the nearest large hut, this is where they expect to find the detainees and hopefully Mme de Gaulle. It was, as expected locked but he was confident the teams training under Soloman & Soloman the best locksmiths in London would enable them to pick these simple locks.

In the pre raid briefing Vaggers had outlined his plan of action to the men.

Once over the wall he and Pugwash would search the 2 large huts on their right and the rest of the team would secure the Cooler and the left flank. The right flank was hopefully being dealt with by the fly boys from the SAS, although as a member of the Senior Service he didn’t put too much faith in their ability to do this, he was to be pleasantly surprised at the efficiency of their operation.

Not something that needs to be shared though.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120404-56896301.jpeg)
He would have smiled if he could see how inefficient the German guards were off on his left flank.

They had been moving in a desultory fashion along the wall in the direction of the river side but have now decided they must relieve themselves of excess schnapps, and then they spent a minute or two topping up their alcohol levels before continuing the rest of their circuit.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120404-568971193.jpeg)
This is just to show the position of the SBS before the inevitable happens.

Jonty the lefty or should that be Sinister Jonty has just tried the Cooler door, Toastrack and Hampster-Crust are moving to back him up when he opens it. Vagabond and Jolyon are by the hut door.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120404-568981708.jpeg)
With empty bladders the guards continued their patrol and turning the corner are confronted with Jonty in his rubber suit, a sight that would stop anyone in their tracks. Especially as it was slick with wet blood from the decommissioned guard.

Without a second thought, knowing that any noise would compromise the mission the three brave seafarers charge forwards, knives drawn, as one of the guards realized he hadn’t quite emptied his bladder previously.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120404-568992153.jpeg)
Vagabond and Pugwash are testing their skills at lock picking. They’re finding it’s a little harder under pressure.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120404-569001222.jpeg)
Surprise was complete, the German guards didn’t have time to fire their guns before our heroes were on them, Sinister Jonty with one kill already was unstoppable and his opponent went down with a knife thrust to the throat, he fell backwards making vague gurgling sounds.
His oppo caught a lucky break though, and with an upward flick of his Mauser hit Toastrack hard in the lower regions. Toastrack collapsed on the ground in a foetal position, moaning quietly to himself and the Holy Mary.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120450-56901840.jpeg)
The Guard opened his mouth to shout a warning to the camp but before he could draw breath Jonty’s knife slid into his throat as well, cutting the Jugular and he collapsed without a sound.

Jonty’s a bit of a devil with the Fairburn-Sykes, not a man to meet in a dark ally on a Saturday night after a disagreement over spilt beer.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120450-56902535.jpeg)
Having searched one of the hut’s Vagabond is moving on to the next one, as Pugwash explains to the inmates of the hut that they can’t leave just yet, not until the guards have been dealt with.

Shouldn’t take too long at this rate.

(http://leadadventureforum.com/gallery/56/7162-151122120450-569032297.jpeg)
“Leave no man behind”. That’s not their motto but it is their creed.

Jonty and Hampster-Crust help Toastrack over the wall. Bill the Bren fails to catch him and there’s a quiet strangulated cry as Toastrack hits the ground and resumes his foetal position and the entreaties to his Mother and the Holy Mary.

Vaggers and Jolyon search the last hut as J and H-C search the Cooler. They find more detainees but not the one they are looking for. Baron Graff Von Dougers has been too cunning by half and Mme de Gaulle has not been found in the obvious places.

There’s a sound like cicadas having a barn dance as the SAS click their clackers and Vaggers meets up with Snappers to see how his chaps have performed and imparting the bad news that their quarry is not in the riverside section of the camp.


To be continued by Snappers at his soonest convenience…..

Cheers
Vaggers
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Michi on November 15, 2022, 02:16:04 PM
This is a really nailbiting story again! I love it!!!  :D :D :D
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: FifteensAway on November 15, 2022, 04:14:40 PM
"Fifteensaway did you see our Viking raid game, the one where the Mad Lords glasses case stood in for a Viking ship..... I thought not or you wouldn't ask about a mobil phone, that stood in for MGB69."

Ah, I knew there was more do it than met the 'eye'!  lol ;D :D ;)

Yes, now it is "Snappers" turn to be under pressure to perform and get us "the rest of the story".  The wrapt audience (possibly wrapped against the cold depending on the local clime) awaits in anxious anticipation.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Doug ex-em4 on November 16, 2022, 03:45:09 PM
Good stuff, Vaggers although I had to skim over some of the more graphic descriptions being of a delicate constitution.

Of course, knowing you and Snappers, it’s a damned good job the guards were so hopeless :D

Doug
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Traveler Man on November 22, 2022, 04:53:31 PM
Simply too gripping for words! Looking forward to the next report from those splendid (and so far uncannily lucky) chaps and chapess.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: MaleGriffin on November 23, 2022, 05:11:23 PM
Fantastic looking game! Beautifully done!
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: FifteensAway on November 24, 2022, 01:40:47 AM
Eight days on and no additional report.  I do hope the Lord is in hearty health and there is some other cause for the delay. 
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: syrinx0 on November 24, 2022, 06:43:05 AM
Indeed! I had been doing my best to remain hopeful for a clear resolution but it appears to be in doubt.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 24, 2022, 07:37:52 AM
Never fear, mes amis, I have spent some time sorting out the remaining photos, all is now ready for publication. Watch this space!

Thank you all for your kind comments and your patience.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on November 24, 2022, 10:35:28 AM
We left Peaches in the watch tower womanning the Bren. Tubby, Stodger, Tarquin and Frobisher make their way towards the last remaining hut. They had made contact with Vaggers (who can be seen entering the stage, top right) and agreed that Mme de Gaulle must be in the last hut, the guard’s hut.

There had been light opposition so far and they had concluded that there must be several guards in the hut itself.

(https://i.imgur.com/PU4G8GO.jpg)

Silently the SAS and the SBS surrounded the hut. Unbeknownst to the Heer guards, the brown stuff was now approaching the rotating object. Sphincters were tightening outside the hut, as the chaps raised their heads above window-sill level and took a very cautious peek inside.

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

There was some light inside, Tubby counted seven guards, one guard dog and in the far corner, a shape asleep under a blanket. It had to be Mme de Gaulle, he prayed. Again, Tubby and Vaggers conferred and made their plans. In the back of Tubby’s mind was a quotation he had had drummed into him at Eton, “If it were done when 'tis done, then 'twere well, it were done quickly”, he thought.

(https://i.imgur.com/kGh1zEX.jpg)

The raiders surrounded the hut, the guards unaware of their impending doom. Conscious of friendly fire, they chose appropriate windows to shoot though. The use of a grenade was out, they could not afford to wound or kill Yvonne de Gaulle.

It may have seemed like a murderous act to innocent bystanders, but war is war and these seven guards were standing in the way of Tubby and Vaggers. This is not a position informed people would normally wish to be in. The agreed signal was three clicks on Tubby’s clicker. The signal was given and all hell broke loose. The sound of Thompson sub-machine guns rent the previously silent night air, as a myriad of .45 bullets entered the guard hut.

(https://i.imgur.com/uTyUT9c.jpg)

As the gun smoke cleared inside the hut, the only discernible movement was the shape under the blanket, which had crawled under the bottom bunk. All the guards were down and the floor of the hut was a sea of claret.

At this point, I have to interrupt the narrative. This is not the usual run of things for a Gentlemen of Much-Piddling game. Usually, the thing has descended into absolute chaos by now, with atrocious dice throws and even more atrocious decisions! In this game, we had already had the miracle shot by Peaches. When the SBS tumbled over the wall, they hardly made any sound. Even when coming face to face with two guards, no shots were fired. I had played this scenario from Black Ops twice before;

The Great Jam Raid (https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=123596.0)

The Case of ‘Swiss’ Tony’s Thumb and the Lady Mayoress (https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=125159.0)

and in both cases, the raiders had alerted the defenders before they even got inside. This time, we had silently infiltrated the camp. By dint of throwing exceptionally good dice, every guard in the hut was killed or mortally wounded in the opening burst of fire. So, Vaggers and I were pleasantly surprised to find ourselves doing so well, with absolutely no manipulations of the rules at all. Not our usual cock-up at all. On with the show!

Entering the hut and checking that the guards were all dead, the team made contact with Mme de Gaulle and prepared to disappear into the dead of night.

(https://i.imgur.com/MzT5GFe.jpg)

Of course, you can’t make that sort of noise in occupied France, without the nasties turning up, like a bad penny. Alerted by the cacophony of small arms fire, von Kinnriemen’s second-in-command, SS-Standartenführer Brunhilde von Busen returns to the camp, accompanied by the SS guards, a somewhat more elite force than the guards who were left on duty.

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

Acting in concert (for once) the raiding forces left the camp the way they had come. Stodger, Tarquin and Frobisher are escorting Yvonne de Gaulle back to the RV, as fast as she can manage.

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

Some of the SBS lads are in their Folbots, as Badger Hamster-Crust and Jolyon Pugwash bring up the rear (bringing up the rear is a very old naval tradition which we won’t go into here, women and children present, don’t y’know?).

(https://i.imgur.com/9OhSXhm.jpg)

The SS and the Geheime Staatspolizei hurry into the camp.

(https://i.imgur.com/K1eK0bK.jpg)

Meanwhile, Tubby (watching out for his niece, Peaches) has caught up with the crew near the RV.

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

We can see here that Peaches is rapidly catching up with the main body.

We did look at line of sight to see if the returning guards could see anybody, but in the night their vision was limited and none came within range.

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

Meanwhile the ‘rum, bum and baccy’ boys are paddling like fury, heading back to MGB 69. Vaggers is leading from the front, keeping watch with his silenced Sten, at least, that is his excuse for not paddling!

(https://i.imgur.com/kPC60YO.jpg)

Angry shouts from the SS as they find the first guard dead (the one that was knifed by the sentry box).

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

Peaches checks the rear, for signs of pursuit.

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

There are suggestions of the roseate fingers of dawn permeating the sky, as the canoes turn into the main channel. It has been a long night for the raiders, but many guards will not see the dawn.

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

SS-Standartenführer Brunhilde von Busen surveys the carnage that is the guard hut and wonders what god-awful posting her lot will be, after this debacle. There not a sign of the perpetrators and their high-level captive has disappeared into the stygian gloom.

(https://i.imgur.com/qLlLav8.jpg)

So, we leave you with a final shot of the teams as they escape the scene of this successful attempt to set Europe ablaze! The SAS are about to be picked up by the Navy, top right and the SBS are not far from their celebratory rum ration onboard MGB 69. “Splice the mainbrace”, cries Toastrack.

(https://i.imgur.com/WZ64WYL.jpg)

Our only casualty was Toastrack, whose ability to father future little-Toastracks was possibly still in doubt, after receiving that rifle-butt to the family jewels. But he lives to fight another day.

But wait, what is this? Safely back on MGB 69, another shock awaits our plucky heroes.

Peaches (remember, she is an MI6 agent) reveals that Mme de Gaulle had in fact taken her children and the maid into Brest on 17th June, before the arrival of the German vanguard. She borrowed money from an aunt who lived there and sought news of her husband at the British Vice-Consulate, which was closing down. Staff advised her to embark on one of the last two ships sailing for England, one Polish, one British. The de Gaulles took passage in the latter and reached Falmouth safely on 19 June: they were therefore in England before MGB 69 sailed to find them. Fate played a hand in their choice of transport as the Polish ship was sunk on the way over.

Peaches was the only one in the party who was aware of this, having been briefed in London by Sir Douglas ‘Dapper’ D’Emfore. In order to allow the escape of the real Mme de Gaulle, a daring substitute volunteered to surrender herself to the German forces, claiming that she was Yvonne de Gaulle. This heroine was none other than Hildr von Spanckwürst (more of her story from Vaggers) and there she was in the officer’s mess of MGB 69, calmly tossing back shots of Pusser’s rum. Snappers and Vaggers should have been angry but, as the rum took effect, they saw the funny side of it. ‘Dapper’ was very keen to get Hilde back to London and had dispatched the best men he could find, so that Hilde was not destined to languish in German captivity.

(https://i.imgur.com/dbDu3gt.jpg)
Sir Douglas 'Dapper' D'Emfore

(https://i.imgur.com/NEkNbNp.jpg)
Hildr von Spanckwürst (taken in Berlin in 1938)

We shall, no doubt, hear of these lionhearts again.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Doug ex-em4 on November 24, 2022, 01:37:21 PM
What a concluding post to an epic game - well done Snappers and Vaggers. Great game, photos and AAR. Lots of stuff to savour at leisure and I’m minded to believe your vigorous protestations of innocence of any suggestion of hanky-panky with dice rolls.

Speaking as D’Emfore, I’m sure it’s blindingly obvious why Hildr could not be left languishing in a sordid prison camp.

Doug
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Mark on November 24, 2022, 01:47:04 PM
A thrilling yarn! Great AAR, and there I was thinking the usual chaos was about to ensue at every turn. But no, a very professional job done by the time travelling special forces!
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Kourtchatovium104 on November 24, 2022, 02:02:26 PM
Bien joué, Messieurs!  :D
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Elk101 on November 24, 2022, 04:51:24 PM
Excellent! A well planned and well executed mission. What went wrong?

As always, it's a pleasure to see your stuff on the Pulp Board.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Traveler Man on November 24, 2022, 08:43:57 PM
Rattling good stuff! I'm sure the chaps and chapess formed an excellent plan, but it has to be said the dice gods smiled, too.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: aircav on November 24, 2022, 08:45:06 PM
Fabulous stuff  8) 8) 8)
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: MaleGriffin on November 24, 2022, 09:56:40 PM
WOW!!!  :o Fantastic game! Beautiful terrain and figures. I love the clear bases!
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: marianas_gamer on November 24, 2022, 11:20:01 PM
Fantastic! ..and without the normal "hold my beer" moments. Drinks all around and I concur with Doug about Hildr!
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: FifteensAway on November 25, 2022, 03:26:26 AM
Thank you for the conclusion - and, here in the states, on Thanksgiving Day no less.  Fun after action report, and a duet fisted one even.  Sometimes the dice just work in your favor.  And sometimes they don't.  Been on both those boat rides, the latest being a Congo outing where I was in the latter situation.

Now, that British navy tradition seems to run along the line of rum, some sort of untoward behavior (or should that be "unforward" behavior), and the lash.  And its not to do with bugs at all.   ; )

We shall all await eagerly the next episode from your mad minds.



Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: syrinx0 on November 25, 2022, 10:44:56 PM
A magnificent twist to the ending.  Well done.
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: mikedemana on November 26, 2022, 01:20:30 AM
Wow...pulled off without a hitch!  :o

I guess every once in awhile, things DO go according to plan. I guess that's why we make it plans, right? Great story and loved the photos and humor.

Mike Demana
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: Vagabond on November 28, 2022, 06:45:43 PM
This heroine was none other than Hildr von Spanckwürst (more of her story from Vaggers) and there she was in the officer’s mess of MGB 69, calmly tossing back shots of Pusser’s rum. Snappers and Vaggers should have been angry but, as the rum took effect, they saw the funny side of it. ‘Dapper’ was very keen to get Hilde back to London and had dispatched the best men he could find, so that Hilde was not destined to languish in German captivity.

If we were the best men he could find God help SOE.  lol lol 8) 8)

I'll expand on Hildr's story in due course, once I've cured her of that nasty habit and I don't mean wearing stockings with elan.

There seems to be some confusion amongst the readers of this thread that Snappers and Vaggers are a pair of bumbling buffoons and it was amazingly lucky that we were able to execute this daring and perfectly timed rescue. All I can say is when Snappers is in charge (of reading the rules) we do incredibly well. He's my hero!

Excellent! A well planned and well executed mission. What went wrong?


This is exactly the sort of scurrilous misinformation I'm referring to.

A thrilling yarn! Great AAR, and there I was thinking the usual chaos was about to ensue at every turn. But no, a very professional job done by the time travelling special forces!

As is this!

Fantastic! ..and without the normal "hold my beer" moments. Drinks all around and I concur with Doug about Hildr!

And this.

But with these few exceptions thanks for your kind comments and a very well done to Snappers for writing the better part of the intrepid story.

Cheers
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: CapnJim on November 29, 2022, 12:19:02 AM
I, for one, would never refer to the plethora of scandalous tales of daring-don't perpetrated by our intrepid heroes told in some of the less distinguished corners of this august forum.  I wouldn't dare do that... :)

Instead, I will shower kudos on Vaggers and Snappers for their brilliant plan and the very skilled manner in which they executed it (and several guards, I suppose I should say...).  Well done lads!  I'm sure you will receive mentions in dispatches galore and the adulation of British and French peoples everywhere! 
Title: Re: The Rescue of Madame de Gaulle
Post by: JBaumal on December 04, 2022, 02:59:16 PM
This is absolutely incredible and beautiful!!!!