Battles of the Civil War - The Battle of Wilson's Creek

INTRODUCTION

Armies of the North and South fought the Battle of Wilson's Creek about ten miles southwest of Springfield, Missouri, on Saturday, 10 August 1861. The battle had the effect of securing the state for the Union. The Union defeat in battle, so closely following the disaster at First Bull Run, caused the North to adopt a more serious attitude about the war and to realize that victory would come only with detailed planning and proper resourcing. Thus, the Union reinforced Missouri with soldiers and weapons during the fall and winter of 1861-62, while the Confederacy applied its scanty resources elsewhere.

Casualty percentages in the fighting were among the highest recorded for any battles of the Civil War. Although the men lost on both sides were almost equal in number, losses were not proportional; nearly one of every four Federals was either killed, wounded, captured, or missing in the battle, but only one of every eight Confederates. These figures exceeded those of the Mexican-American War and foreshadowed the stupendous totals that emerged as the Civil War evolved. While casualty figures do not always serve well as a measure of valour or expertise, clearly at Wilson's Creek, generally inexperienced soldiers led by equally inexperienced officers fought determinedly for six bloody hours.

The battle was fought between the Union Army of the West and the Confederate Western Army. These armies totalled 5431 and 10175 men respectively. The complete Order of Battle (OOB) can be seen below. This Battle puts you in charge of the Union Army of the West, as seen from the point of view of Brigadier General Nathaniel Lyon. You will also be called on to fight from the points of view of inferior officers, usually in command of a Brigade. You will be given Multiple Choice options for most things, however you will be allowed at any point to give another option and use that if you wish. At the end of three days, after me posting the chapter, I will tally the most popular result, and that will be what is taken. Everyone gets a vote.

I am hoping this can become a regular thing in the future, and that I can fight larger battles this way.

Union Order of Battle

Army of the West – United States - 5,431
Brigadier General Nathaniel Lyon
First Brigade – 884
Major Sturgis
1st U.S. Infantry – 300
Capt Plummer

2nd Missouri Infantry – 150
Major Osterhaus

Kansas Rangers and 1st U.S. Cavalry – 350
Capt Wood

Battery F, 2nd U.S. Artillery – 84, 6 Guns
Capt Totten


Second Brigade - 1,200
Col Sigel
3rd Missouri Infantry and 5th Missouri Infantry – 990
Lt Col Albert

Company I, 1st U.S. Cavalry – 65
Capt Carr

Company C, 2nd U.S. Dragoons – 60
Lt Farrand

Backof's Missouri Light Artillery – 85, 6 Guns
Lts Schuetzenbach and Schaeffer


Third Brigade - 1,116
LtCol Andrews
2nd U.S. Infantry – 275
Capt Steele

1st Missouri Infantry – 775
LtCol Andrews

Du Bois's Battery (U.S. Regulars) – 66, 3 Guns
Lt Du Bois


Fourth Brigade - 2,400
Col Deitzler
1st Iowa Infantry – 800
Col Bates

1st Kansas Infantry – 800
Col Dietzler

2nd Kansas Infantry – 600
Lt Col Blair

Home Guards – 200
Capt Wright
[/B]

[B]

Confederate Order of Battle

Western Army – Confederate - 10175
Brigadier General Benjamin McCulloch

Pearce's Brigade - 2,234Brig. Gen. Pearce

1st Arkansas Cavalry - 350
Col. Carroll

Carroll's Cavalry - 40
Capt. A. Carroll

3d Arkansas Infantry – 500
Col. Gratiot

4th Arkansas Infantry - 550
Col. Walker

5th Arkansas Infantry - 650
Col. Dockery

Woodruff's Battery - 4 guns, 71 men
Capt. Woodruff Jr.

Reid's Battery - 4 guns, 73 men
Capt. Reid

McCulloch's Brigade - 2720 Brig. Gen. Ben McCulloch

3d Louisiana Infantry - 700
Col. Hebert

Arkansas Infantry - 220
Lt. McRae

1st Arkansas Mounted Rifles - 600
Col. Churchill

2d Arkansas Mounted Rifles - 400
Col. McIntosh

South Kansas-Texas Mounted Regiment - 800
Col. Greer

MISSOURI STATE GUARD - 5,221
Maj. Gen. Sterling Price

2d Division (2,526)
Brig. Gen. James S. Rains

Infantry Brigade - 1,250
Col. Weightman
1st Missouri State Guard Infantry
2d Missouri State Guard Infantry
3d Missouri State Guard Infantry
4th Missouri State Guard Infantry

Cavalry Brigade - 1,210
Col. Cawthorn

Bledsoe's Battery (3 guns, 66 men)

3d Division - 573
Brig. Gen. Charles Clark
Burbridge's Infantry - 273
Col. J. Q. Burbridge

Major's Cavalry - 300
Lt. Col. J. P. Major

4th Division - 934
Brig. Gen. William Y. Slack
Hughes Infantry, and Thornton's Infantry - 650
Col. John T. Hughes and Maj. C. C. Thornton

Rives' Cavalry - 234
Col. B. A. Rives

6th Division - 601
Brig. Gen. Monroe M. Parsons
Kelly's Infantry - 195
Col. Kelly

Brown's Cavalry - 406
Col. Brown

Guibor's Battery - 4 guns, 61 men
Capt. H. Guibor

7th Division - 645
Brig. Gen. J.H. McBride
Wingo's Infantry - 300
Col. Wingo

Foster's Infantry - 305
Col. Foster

Campbell's Cavalry - 40
Capt. Campbell

So, any questions? The first chapter will be posted tomorrow. Perhaps today if I am feeling up to it.

Maps
Topographic and Aerial Map:
http://terraserver-usa.com/image.asp...59&Y=10265&W=2
(Click the tab at the top for the other Map)

Map of the battle:
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikiped...sons_Creek.jpg

This is a bit of the way into the battle, you will start before the deployment, so ignore where the soldiers are at this time.

Satellite Images:
http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=37.10....015,0.025&t=h
http://local.live.com/default.aspx?c...e=h&lvl=15&v=1

Good Map of the Battlefield:
http://www-cgsc.army.mil/carl/resour...ages/img32.gif

Index
Chapter 1 - Pre-Battle Manoeuvres
Chapter 2 - Pre-Battle Manoeuvres II
Chapter 3 - Location of Command
Chapter 4 - Nearing Dawn
Chapter 5 - Dawn's First Light
Chapter 6 - The Artillery Rang Forth!
Chapter 7 - The Tension Rises, The Battle Comes Yonder
Chapter 8 - The Battle Arrives

Interesting!

- I clicked "More..." button but nothing come up?
- Will it alive forever or will it die like Napoleonic?

This is much easier to do than the Napoleonic Interactive. This is just one chapter every three days, with no PMs to write up.

I don't know what is wrong with the "Read" button. It works for me. Just click it once.

Looks good CA, though a IA on American History, what about a Australian one... :P

I'm not sure either. Few minutes ago, I clicked the Confederate ORBAT and it worked (Union didn't work) and now, both didn't work :stupido2:

I can use both! Sorry, Tran, but it seems to be your personal problem!! :surrender2:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Warluster

Looks good CA, though a IA on American History, what about a Australian one... :P

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lol, we have the msot boring history of any country.

I decided to use Internet Explorer instead of Firefox and now it worked! :idea: Must have something to do with the browser.

Adding some maps to the OP.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by CountArach

lol, we have the msot boring history of any country.

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Gold Rush, WWI, WWII, East Timor....

:grin3: Uh well.

Chapter 1 – Pre Battle Manoeuvres
August 9th, 1861 – 1800 Hours

You are Brigadier General Nathaniel Lyons, born in Connecticut in July 1818. You attended the US Military Academy in 1841, then proceeded to participate in the Seminole and Mexican Wars. Ion May of this year you were promoted from Captain to Brigadier General, a large promotion by any standard. Yet that is all behind you now, what stands before you is the battle.

You are in command of the almost 5500 men of the Army of the West, comprised of four Brigades and 15 guns. You have very little cavalry; however what you do have is of a decent quality.

It is now 1800 Hours, and nightfall is about one hour off. You know that a battle is almost unavoidable at this point. Your scouts report over 10000 men in the Confederate army opposing you, with a large cavalry advantage and about the same number of guns.

Your Scouts also report that to your south, around the hills, there are about 2300 soldiers, under the command of Brigadier General Rains. We have a numerical superiority, yet they have dug in and have set up camp for the night.

You must decide what to do:

Decision 1 - Where shall we make camp?
Nightfall is one hour off. We must decide where to make camp, or if we should attack the enemy soldiers around the hills to our south.
Option A – Near the Farmhouse of E. B Short, on the North of the likely Battlefield
Option B – Near Gibson’s Mill to our south, about three quarters of a mile.
Option C – Do not strike camp, we shall seek a battle with the soldiers, under Brigadier General Rains in the hills to the South-West of Gibson’s Mill.
Option D – Other.

Decision 2 – When to make camp?
We should decide when to make cap and let our men rest. The expected sunrise is just after 0500 tomorrow. We have about 1 hour of daylight left.
Option A – As soon as we arrive at our destination
Option B – No rest for our men. They should be on high alert all night
Option C – Rest, but not before ensuring the area is secure and pickets are set up
Option D – No rest, attack.
Option E - Other

Decision 3 – A Flanking Manoeuvre?
We have the chance to send one of our Brigades around to flank the enemy. They will march to the East, and find a crossing. Our guides say they should arrive behind the expected enemy positions at about 0500.
Option A – We should send a Brigade that way (Specify which one)
Option B – We should detach a regiment or regiments to take this route (Specify which).
Option C – We should stay together and send no one
Option D – Other.

You have 2 days, the option with the most selections in each section will be chosen. I have chosen to cut this down to 2 days, because now that I think about it, you don’t need 3 days to debate these things.

Well we certianly don't strike the enemy, as they have the advantage of a hill. I'd say A, as if that is where battle is spectualted to be, then we have the advantage of being dug in.
So A for one for me.

For number 2, the men need rest to fight effiecently, but the enmy has Cavalry supreiority, so they could strike at night, but rest is required of good soldiers. So I say C

And for the last, we should sent a Regiment, so its quick, if we attack we can feint from the flank, then strike from our starting position. SO I say A and Kansas Rangers and 1st U.S. Cavalry

By teh way, when I say "likely Battlefield" I mean the maps. The Battlefield could end up anywhere on the map.

:coffeenews: Let's make an analysis of the starting position:
1) We are outnumbered
2) We have less cavalry
3) The enemy is on the hills

But:
our soldiers are better (most of them are German, if memory serves ~;) !

Therefore, no reason to worry. Let's try to defeat those bloody rebels!

Right now, I see two possible operation plans:

1) The Lee style:
We do exactly what the enemy does not expect us to do. We divide our force and we attack!
We leave the home guard behind to organize supply! We detach the 2nd Brigade (1,200, Col. Sigel) and lead them to the eastern flank.
The rest advances to Gibson's mill, where we camp.

At 4:00 we start to advance, at 5:00 we attack. The main body assaults the hill, creates confusion and panic and drives the rebels back. Sigel's detachment does the same from the east. We meet at Sharps!

Important! Make sure that our soldiers wear something special, so that we can identify them easily.

2) Napoleonic!
We dig all through the night and build strong barricades and trenches south of E.B. Short.
Before the break of dawn we divide our army in three detachments:
A) Forth Brigade (2,400) advances to the eastern flank.
B) 3rd Brigade (1,116) advances against the hill
C) Rest (2,284) - 1st Brigade (884), 2nd Brigade (1,200), Homeguards (200) - stays in the trench.

With the first light of day, 3rd Brigade makes a mock attack. Then it withdraws. The rebels (knowing that they have superior numbers) will surely follow. 3rd Brigades withdraws to support the trenches. Here our soldiers (about 3,300) stops the assault of the rebels. They are enough to stop them for a while and to inflict high casualties. The rebels will throw more and more soldiers into the assault and leave the hills.
At this moment, 4th Brigade assaults the hills from the east. Suddenly the rebels find themselves between the trenches and the hills. Their attack collpases and they leave the battlefield in a wild flight.

Important! Make sure that there is enough ammo at the trenches. Our soldiers will have to kill many rebels.

Before I make my decision, I would like to hear your opinion!!!:7fortuneteller:

Quote:

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our soldiers are better (most of them are German, if memory serves

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I can't find any exact sources, but judging simply on the names of half of the commanders, yes a lot of them are. However, you should not be lulled into the idea that your men are really good. They are still very inexperienced. For most men, this is their first battle, however the same can be said for the Confederates. This will be a very hard battle to win.

EDIT: I have found a source, and it does indeed look like you have a fair few Germans in your ranks.

I might not be welcome here, but what are you supposed to do?
It looks interesting but if I'm too late, I understand.

Everyone is welcome to this!

Simply select an option from each of the three decisions. Whichever one you think is the most logical thing to do in the situation. See Warluster's post for a good example.. Most people like to justify what their selections are and why, so that some good tactical discussion is created. The aim is to win the battle by picking the best selections continuously.

B
C
A any cavalry

I'm sorry I don't have time to explain I have to sleep.
But this is what I think(not that it matters).

I just realised Warluster and Xehh, you are suggesting 3C, because that Cavalry is just a Regiment, not a Brigade. Brigades would be Siegel's Brigade, ie the 1200 men.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by CountArach

I have found a source, and it does indeed look like you have a fair few Germans in your ranks.

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:book2: German Wiki says that the core of Lyon's troops were 3,000 new recruits from Missouri/St. Louis, which consisted mainly from 'Wide awakes' (?) and German Immigrants.

1. B
2. C
3. C

Reason for C on the last choice is that we are outnumbered. It would be deadly to break up our troops into separate forces (Custer anyone?)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Marshal Murat

Reason for C on the last choice is that we are outnumbered. It would be deadly to break up our troops into separate forces (Custer anyone?)

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Lee did that all the time and so did Napoleon.

I think before we make the decisions, we should decide if we want to attack or stay defensive.

If we want to be offensive, we should think about apropriate tactics. I think surprise is the key.

If we decide to be defensive, most important thing is to find the right position.

We won't get anywhere, if we discuss the deployment. while some want to attack and others want to defend.

:surrender2: :charge:

As for question two, would it be possible to mix options B and C?
How bad/stupid would it be to set up camp, prepare the pickets (option C) but still have a Brigade not rest as a defense?

I think we should attack Rains.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Warmaster Horus

As for question two, would it be possible to mix options B and C?
How bad/stupid would it be to set up camp, prepare the pickets (option C) but still have a Brigade not rest as a defense?

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Absolutely, this is possible.

Attack? :stupido2:
Defend? :stupido3:

Alright, let's defend!

Decision 1 - Where shall we make camp?

Option A – Near the Farmhouse of E. B Sharp, on the North of the likely Battlefield
Deployment:
Our headquarter will be Sharps farm!
1st, 2nd and 3rd Brigade will deploy at the descent south of Sharp's farm. 1st west, 2nd center, 3rd east.
All brigades have to prepare a defensive position, trenches and all that stuff!

4th Brigade - Army Reserve helps to dig the trenches and deploys then at the farm.

Homeguard organizes supply. We need loads of ammo. Let them also prepare food, water and something where we can care about the wounded and stock the dead. During battle homeguard will be responsible for supplying the front and for getting the wounded and dead out of the way!

Decision 2 – When to make camp?
Option E-other: We should decide when to make cap and let our men rest. The expected sunrise is just after 0500 tomorrow. We have about 1 hour of daylight left.
They can rest as soon as the trenches are ready. Send a small cavalry detachment to Gibson's Mill. They can warn us, when the rebels approach.

Decision 3 – A Flanking Manoeuvre?

Option C – We should stay together and send no one

The destination of the rebels is to die in front of our trenches!

I reckon the famr will be good enough.

Just had to add this, might be spam, but when you say Sharps Farm I think Sharpes Farm from SHarpes Rifles. :P

A mistake from my recon platoon. It's a tragedy to work with unexperienced soldiers.

Now the battle will be called "Battle at Sharp's Farm". What a pitty!!
~:cheers:

I think Franc's broad approach is right - but I think he is going too far south. Sharp's farm puts us between the force on Bald Knob/ Bloody Hill and the rest of the rebels coming up from the south. We should camp to the east of Gibson's mill on the 2 hills covered with Ray's cornfield. This gives us height, a wood on each flank, at least some of the Rebels will have to cross the Creek to get to us and we dominate the road to Springfield.

We should rest the men, but we should be on our guard. We should set pickets, garrison Gibson's Mill as well as having forward pickets in the wood to the south of Ray's cornfield.

We should keep our troops together, but I think a diversion with some of our cavalry would be good. We should send the Kansas rangers and 1st US cavalry under Cpt. Wood to recon the wood between Gibson's mill and Bald Knob - they could skirmish with any pickets and generally stir things up, creating the impression of an attack from the north. This will keep the rebels up all night and misdirect them about our general position. Our cavalry should grab any opportunity - eg run off any horses, shot any gunners, spike any guns etc - but they should not get too involved. Our cavalry is meant to be OK, so they should be able to do this.

I agree, let's find the highest hill we can, with good protection from forests! After that, I think we should go for a plan of deception and defense.

Let's prepare multiple lines of trenches on the hill, and put some 2,000 soldiers in the trenches at the beginning of the battle. The rest should be hidden in the forests. When enough enemies become visible from the hill position, a carefully planned feigned panic act should be played out. Cannons should be turned around and moved up higher on the hill, and some 200 men should run back and forth through the trench systems in a chaotic but pre-arranged manner to make the whole force look even more disorganized and panic-struck. Hopefully this will draw the enemy into attacking the main position. When they do, the infantry in the forests can either strike from the forests, or be sent in to strengthen the trenches, depending on whether the enemy exposes their flank, or the trenches are in desperate need of reinforcement.

Additionally, we should prepare a second bait with our cavalry to make the deception even more convincing. About half of the cavalry could be sent away over very open terrain to make it look like they're on their way to fetch reinforcements, but due to the open terrain, the enemy will believe these reinforcements will be very far away. This, along with the panic playact, will make the enemy think we are weak and our only chance lies in delaying the enemy for long enough to bring reinforcements.

The cavalry commander should have free hands to act depending on the situation. If they are pursued they should of course try to shake off the pursuers as top priority. If they are not, they should wait until the battle has begun at the hill, then return. The cavalry commander should attack either enemy gun positions, infantry or cavalry depending on which enemy forces he considers most isolated and most useful to destroy.

We should not try to be too clever - this is early American Civil war, troops are eager, fragile and not well trained. Also digging deep trenches are a bit beyond our troops and equipment. We should prepare positions - tree trunk abbattis etc - but we are unlikely to make a copy of the Somme on the hill - especially as we only have over night and it would be more important to rest. Our troops - and theirs - have been marching here and there for several days.

Overall, we should keep things simple - tailor our moves to the calibre of our troops. The rebels are trying to march on Springfield - no doubt to seize the nuclear reactor:laugh4: - so as long as we dominate that road, they must attack us.

very intersting!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by King Kurt

no doubt to seize the nuclear reactor:laugh4:

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You know, my knowledge of the civil war is so limited, that I could maybe even have fallen for that :wink:

Joking aside, I trust your advice more than my own, until I learn more about the period :2thumbsup:

However, I got the impression that we had a professional core within our army - enough to perform complex moves that only involve small numbers, whereas when the entire army is involved we can only make very simple moves.

Some of your men are professional, yes, but the majority are fairly raw recruits. Later in the Civil War they would be able to do very complex moves, but as it is the things you can do are rather limited.

4 Hours left. The current winning decisions are:
Decision 1 - A (E.B Short's farm)
Decision 2 - C (Set up pickets, then rest)
Decision 3 - B (Send a regiment of cavalry)

BTW - I accidentally mistook Short for Sharp. Stupid similar names. Either way Sharp's farm is not an option for you guys, you would have to march through the enemy lines, not to mention marching for a fair bit into the night.

It's been more than 4 hours. Anyway, can I still cast my vote? Otherwise, just ignore :beam:

Decision 1 - Where shall we make camp?
Nightfall is one hour off. We must decide where to make camp, or if we should attack the enemy soldiers around the hills to our south.
Option C – Do not strike camp, we shall seek a battle with the soldiers, under Brigadier General Rains in the hills to the South-West of Gibson’s Mill.

Decision 2 – When to make camp?
We should decide when to make cap and let our men rest. The expected sunrise is just after 0500 tomorrow. We have about 1 hour of daylight left.
Option C – Rest, but not before ensuring the area is secure and pickets are set up

Decision 3 – A Flanking Manoeuvre?
We have the chance to send one of our Brigades around to flank the enemy. They will march to the East, and find a crossing. Our guides say they should arrive behind the expected enemy positions at about 0500.
Option B – We should detach a regiment or regiments to take this route (Specify which): Cavalry regiment (the most experienced one that is)

Chapter 2 – Pre Battle Manoeuvres II
August 9th, 1861 – 2100 Hours

It is now 2100 Hours and some unexpected light rain has started to fall. This rain is expected to last for at least another hour. The temperature has dropped to a cool 65 Degrees Fahrenheit.

You decided to make camp a short way to your west, at E. B Short’s farm and, though your men took a little while to organise, they started to dig one main trench and a few smaller ones near it. Unfortunately, the rain has started to make it boggy and much of the work that was done earlier in the night has been ruined. Work has stalled now, to be continued once the rain stops, if you allow it

You have set up your pickets and have sent out scouts to keep an eye on General Rains. They have reported no movement; however there have been noticeably fewer pickets set up since the rain has started.

The Kansas Rangers and 1st U.S. Cavalry have been sent out to the ford to try to loop around the enemy as a distraction, and to hunt artillery if they have a chance. They are now outside your command, and any messengers that you wish to send them are not guaranteed to reach them.

You must decide what to do:

Decision 1 – Shall we continue with the trenches?
Our trenches are starting to be bogged down, and some of the work has collapsed after turning into mud. The work can be replaced, but will waste more time that our men could spend resting.
Option A – Continue with the trenches, even through the rain.
Option B – Stop work on the trenches altogether, start another plan.
Option C – Leave the trenches and return to them after the rain has stopped.
Option D – Other.

Decision 2 – Our Pickets?
Some of our pickets are complaining about the rain and have not reported seeing anyone so far.
Option A – They are fine, leave them there.
Option B – Recall the pickets
Option C – Send out more pickets
Option D - Other

Decision 3 – Rain’s Pickets?
Rain has noticeably fewer pickets than before, probably due to the weather. What do we do about this potential opportunity?
Option A – Attack (Specify with what forces)
Option B – Leave him as he is.
Option C – Other

You will have close to 60 hours to debate this one, because school starts again in that time, so I will have to close this later in the day. Also, anyone who is voting please be specific as to what you are voting for. This means state specifically if you are choosing A, B, C, etc. Thanks.

The questions are kinda confusing for a while but then I realized you mean two different "rains", the normal "rain" and "General Rain" :laugh4:

Anyway, my choices:
Decision 1 – Shall we continue with the trenches?
Option C – Leave the trenches and return to them after the rain has stopped.

Decision 2 – Our Pickets?
Option A – They are fine, leave them there.

Decision 3 – Rain’s Pickets?
Option B – Leave him as he is. (could be a trap, but keep the eyes on them)

1C
2A/B, decrease a bit but not completely
3A/B only attack if we can find a very isolated enemy group in the open, and attack with the cavalry. Otherwise, leave it. That probably means leave it completely, as the enemy would only leave an isolated group in the open by mistake :wink:

Attack an organized infantry body with calvery in the cival war is Suciadal. As Getteysburg showed the best use of calvery is scouting and screening for the main army. Not making wild charges or trying to inderdict supplies.

1. C. leave them but prepare to fight a delaying action with the 1st and fourth birgade while the 2nd and third strike at Rains.

2. A. there fine, leting down our guard is one of the largest mistakes made in the ACW.

3. A, attack now that their off guard with the 2nd and third birgade. With these forces we will outnumber him almost two to one and have the factor of surprise.

1. A

2. B

3. B

I'm sorry, I don't say why I do things.

lol,
C
A
B

Same reasons as Tran.

Decision 1 – Shall we continue with the trenches?

Option A – Continue with the trenches, even through the rain.

Trenches are key to our victory! We need them as good as possible. However, we could start to fell trees to build defilates. They would stand the water.

Kurt is right, of course. We should keep it as simple but effective as possible. Maybe we could use waggons, barrels or anything else to improve our defilate.

Do not forget to ship enough amo and food. Rain may slow it down, but we will need a lot of powder!!

Mud may be a good thing, as it will slow down the rebel cav.!

Decision 2 – Our Pickets?

Option B – Recall the pickets

The rebels won't attack at night! They will wait for the daylight and the rain to end. We have to use this time to improve our defense. So build barricades, chop trees, stock supply, prepare kitchens for warm meals, casualties station etc. Also let the soldiers ret for some time.

Decision 3 – Rain’s Pickets?

Option B – Leave him as he is.

Now it is time to dig and to rest. Then we will defend the trench, finally we will chase the fleeing enemy. No time to hurry. No reason for distraction!!

P.S.: Do not use the cavalry for any skirmish combat. We almost have none. We must safe them for more important things: recon, protection of our flanks, counterstrikes. So call them back and make them rest. Some small patrols are sufficient!!

Decision 1 – Shall we continue with the trenches?

Option D – Other. - We should make best use of what we have achieved and look to supplement it with chopped down trees . However, we should aim to finish by midnight to ensure we have some rest before tomorrow - CA - what time is dawn?

Decision 2 – Our Pickets?
Some of our pickets are complaining about the rain and have not reported seeing anyone so far.
Option A – They are fine, leave them there. - They might complain, but we must keep tabs on the Rebels. We should attempt to get hot food to them and aim to replace them 2 hours before dawn to ensure they can get some rest and we have fresh pickets when the likely attack will occur.

Decision 3 – Rain’s Pickets?
Rain has noticeably fewer pickets than before, probably due to the weather. What do we do about this potential opportunity?

Option B – Leave him as he is. - The smaller number of pickets might present an opportunity for our cavalry though.

Other - we should send word to our cavalry to be back in camp by 1 o'clock - we do not want them and their horses overtired for tomorrow.

Quote:

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Decision 1 – Shall we continue with the trenches?

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C - Wait for the rain to stop. Cut down trees for fence/trench.

2. A
3. B
You are going to attack a Rebel cavalry force, in the rain, through the dark, with green troops? Did I hear you correctly?
1st- Troops will get lost, disorganized, demoralized, and probably get the powder wet. These aren't men who have any experience marching in formation, let alone doing it in the dark.
2nd- Less pickets doesn't mean that the formation will go unnoticed. If you plan on moving in and attacking the rebel cavalry, then you are aching for a nasty, dark, rainy, muddy battle.

I support Franc. This is the Civil War. Napoleonic tactics (massed infantry formations) is suicidal. Gettysburg, Fredericksburg, Cold Harbor. If you want to out-flank someone, you need to have men trained to march around the enemies flank. To think that these somewhat trained immigrants with guns can perform something the trained and veteran Army of Northern Virginia could do is not a wise decision.

Set up the troops, build defenses. Get supplies. Ask for more troops from St. Louis and Cairo. If your force is smaller, your can do something like Leuthen, an oblique approach. However, the Kansas Rangers need to establish the rebel positions so that your troops can defeat them.

1C
2A (We need forward warnings of attacks!)
2B (Could be trap, and our men won't perform well in the rain either.)

Chapter 3 – Pre Battle Manoeuvres
August 10th, 1861 – Midnight (5 Hours until Dawn)

Not a great deal has occurred since 2100; however the rain stopped at approximately 2200. The men continued building digging the trenches after that time and they started putting in place some Wagons and the few scattered trees from around here. They also ransacked part of Short’s farmhouse for wood. However, Short left many hours ago and was not there to protest. The constructions are expected to be finished within the hour. At that point there will be another half hour of preparing the trench for use. After this, the men can retire.

You have sent off for more supplies, but it is unlikely that they will be forthcoming, at least not for a few days. The pickets that you sent out earlier remained out there, with food being brought to them. They will be rotated for other guards at 0200. They are not reporting any unusual activity.

You decided to leave General Rain’s forces alone when his pickets were recalled during the rain. Those scouts who you have left out are reporting that his pickets still haven’t come back out and that all remains silent in there.

You must decide what to do:

Decision 1 – The Constructions
The constructions are nearing completion, with an hour and a half remaining until all of the work is done. It is possible for only one of the Brigades to continue work and provide the pickets, while the other ones go to sleep.
Option A – All men should continue the work. This will result in it being completed in an hour and a half.
Option B – Sturgis’ First Brigade can continue the work alone (534 Men). This will result in it being completed in three hours.
Option C – Sigel’s Second Brigade can continue the work alone (1200 Men). This will result in it being completed in two and a half hours.
Option D – Andrews’ Third Brigade can continue the work alone (1116 Men). This will result in it being completed in two and a half hours.
Option E – Deitzler’s Fourth Brigade can continue the work alone (2400 Men). This will result in it being completed in two hours.

Decision 2 – Command Centre
For the battle to come you will need to have a Command Centre, where all orders you give will be sent from. Where should this be?
Option A – Short’s Farm
Option B – North of the Farm
Option C – Dig another trench for them
Option D – Other

Decision 2 – Hospital
All Civil War armies needed a Hospital on the field. Where should this be?
Option A – Short’s Farm
Option B – North of the Farm
Option C – Dig another trench for them
Option D – Other

:book: Excellent chapter, good progress.


Decision 1 – The Constructions
The constructions are nearing completion, with an hour and a half remaining until all of the work is done. It is possible for only one of the Brigades to continue work and provide the pickets, while the other ones go to sleep.
Option E – Deitzler’s Fourth Brigade can continue the work alone (2400 Men). This will result in it being completed in two hours.
During battle 4th Brigade will be the reserve. They can rest during day. Let the other brigades sleep!

Decision 2 – Command Centre
For the battle to come you will need to have a Command Centre, where all orders you give will be sent from. Where should this be?

If I read the map right, then the farm is at the slope on the northern side of the hill. Then the enemy won't be able to watch it or to shell it. If this is right, then the headquarter has to be there. If not, locate the headquarter 200 meters aside and mask it!

Decision 2 – Hospital
All Civil War armies needed a Hospital on the field. Where should this be?

If I read the map right, then the farm is at the slope on the northern side of the hill. Then the enemy won't be able to watch it or to shell it. If this is right, then the headquarter has to be there. If not, locate the hospital several hundred meters north of the farm (at the road!)

Quote:

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If I read the map right, then the farm is at the slope on the northern side of the hill.

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No, it is on the very south of the Northern-most hill of the map.

Also, do I understand right in that you want to Hospital with the Command Centre?

A A A

You are right!

Place the HQ somewhere on the hill, where it
1) can be masked
2)can watch the battle
3) reached by messangers

Place the hospital behind the farm at the road.

Here a sketch of my deployment proposal:


https://img523.imageshack.us/img523/...tation1kg4.jpg

The more I look at it, The less I like our position - we are deployed in the middle of a wood with some height advantage but we don't have fields of fire. Also the Rebels do not have to attack us - we do not dominate the road to Springfield for example. The position to the SW of Gibson's mill was much better.
However, making the best of a bad position, I think all should build defences so then all can sleep so A All our forces will be needed from daylight, so the reserve is likely to be our cavalry as opposed to an infantry brigade.
As for HQ and Hospital, I go along with Franc.

Don't worry. They will attack us! They cannot afford to have us in their back!

In the wood may not be ideal. But it will delete the advantage of the rebel cavalry. If I see right, there is not that much trees in front of us. More at the flanks. Furthermore we are behind a creek and uphill.

1. E Franconicus is right. The 4th battalion is the reserves they can rest during the day.

2 & 3-Franconicus's map.

1. D I like a little smaller birade as our reserve so we can have more man up fornt in the line of battle
2 and three, I'll go with franc here

As to the brush/scrub infront of you.

Your men chopped down many of the trees here for the woods. There is still some low-lying shrubbery, but still fairly decent line of sight.

And thanks for the map Franc, that helps.

I think that the 4th Brigade is ideal for reserve. First of all, it is our strongest brigade. They can repel any break through and counter any flankng maneuvre. Second, they do not have artillery or cavalry. So we can deploy all our guns.

The battle will last a while, so it will be good to have a strong reserve so we can replace tired companies.

CA, I really enjoy this story; esp. the high speed!!
By the way, I see the ratio about cavalry, but I do not understand the ratio regarding artillery. Can you help? How many guns do we have? What size!

I red an article, stating that the rebels are low in ammo. What about us. How many rounds can we shell?

Quote:

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CA, I really enjoy this story; esp. the high speed!!

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My pleasure :bow:

Quote:

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By the way, I see the ratio about cavalry, but I do not understand the ratio regarding artillery. Can you help? How many guns do we have? What size!

---

That is in the Order of Battle.

The size of teh guns are fairly small. Most of the weapons on the field for both sides are obsolete Mexican War left overs. You have none of the 12lb that became the bread and butter of later Civil War armies.

Quote:

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I red an article, stating that the rebels are low in ammo. What about us. How many rounds can we shell?

---

Both sides at this poitn have enough ammo to last for *most* of a battle. The Historic battle lasted about 5 solid hours of fighting once you take out the breaks. Both sides were fairly short on ammo at that point.

The Artillery was firing all battle, so you can shell plenty of times.

Whatever Franc choices this turn, I'll follow him (same choices). His reasonings look convincing.

Also, I do enjoy short story interactive. :2thumbsup: Looking forward the battle phase.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by CountArach

... That is in the Order of Battle...

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From the OoB:

Quote:

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Battery F, 2nd U.S. Artillery – 84, 6 Guns
Capt Totten

---

What does 84, 6 guns mean? Err, I think I understand now. That means 84 men with 6 cannons, right.

looking into detail, both sides have 15 cannons. If I understand right, two of our batteries are regular, while the rebels are new. This, plus the better position, should give us some advantage in artillery,

Cavalry:
We have 675 horse soldiers, including 200 homeguards and 125 dragoons (I think these are mounted infantry!). The core are 350 cavalrists!!

The rebels have 1,370 plus 1,800 mounted infantry. If they try a frontal assault (which is quite propable for unexperienced soldiers) we can defeat them.

More dangerous would be, if they use their cavalry, esp. the mounted infantry to bypass our flank. I think the eastern side is more exposed.

We can repel this threat with our 4. Brigade reserve, if we can deploy it in time.

This is my proposal for the battle:
Use the core cavalry (350 raiders) to patrol at our flanks. We must know immediately what is going on there.
Use the dragoons as mobile infantry to reenforce the position, esp. the flanks, when needed.
Use the home guard as shock cavalry, in case our infantry or artillery gets in trouble and has to be bailed out.

What worries me most is that our best cavalry (350 men) is out in the night. The enemy has 4 times as many horses and he will have patrols out there. If he manages to catch our cavalry, he will be able to overwhelm them. There is nothing we can do to help them. Loosing them would be a relapsing. I would rather have them back! We need them to patrol at our flanks.

I agree with Francs assesment of our calvery except for using the homeguard as shockcalvery which is almost the equviclent of trying to use calvery in WWI. better to also have them on the flannks or posed to raid the artillary if we get the chance.

Chapter 4 – Nearing Dawn
August 10th, 1861 – 0400 (1 Hour until Dawn)

The trenches and barricades are now completed. They cover the front of the trenches fairly completed. All of the Brigades have now had 4 hours worth of sleep, except for Deizler’s Fourth Brigade, which finished the trenches at about 0200. They are also providing most of the pickets at the point, due to them being able to sleep during the day.

The moon has set, so your scouts are reporting less and less, most of them having turned in for the night, however all seems quiet in General Rain’s camp. There have been very few reports of scouts. It would seem that they have not yet been sent out since the poor weather.

The Hospital and the command centre were set up behind the Farmhouse. You have a fairly good level of visibility from where you currently are. Both your position and that of the Hospital have had several branches cut down and placed in front of them in order to disguise them and hide them from the enemy’s position.

There is one Hour until Dawn. You must decide what to do:

Decision 1 – When to Wake the Men?
It is now about one hour until dawn. The men have slept for the last four hours; however it is likely that they may need more after their exertions in the late afternoon.
Option A – Wake the men now, except the Fourth Brigade.
Option B – Leave the men to sleep until Dawn, except the Fourth Brigade.
Option C – Wake two of the Brigades (Specify which)
Option C – Select another time.

Decision 2 – An Early Strike?
General Rain’s pickets and scouts appear to have turned in for the night. This would be a good opportunity to launch an early strike to try to get control of the high ground.
Option A – Attack with all the men who are awake
Option B – Attack with half of the men who are woken.
Option C – Leave him alone
Option D – Other

Decision 3 – Scouts
Now that dawn is approaching, you should decide where you want the majority of the scouting centred around. This will be crucial for the information you receive during the battle.
Option A – Gibson’s Mill
Option B – Bloody Hill
Option C – Edward’s Farmhouse
Option D – Sharp’s Farmhouse
Option E – Other

:coffeenews:
Bloody Hill is where Reins Camp is, right?
Where is Edward's farmhouse?

http://www-cgsc.army.mil/carl/resour...ages/img32.gif

This map is good for these things.

Bloody Hill is where General Rain is.
Edward's farm is just to its South-East.

This is the dawn of the battle, so let's think a moment about the plans of the rebels.

Their army - or let it call a pack of bandids - has two parts: the Wetsern Army of McCullock (10,000) and the Missouri State Guard of Price (5,000).

McCullock is a Texas Ranger with some experience regarding artillery.
Price seems to be a political general. His guard is not very reliable.

The war is still young and everybody expects that it won't take long. I bet both rebel commanders are crazy to get a victory before it is over.

The rebels have superior numbers and they know that if they defeat the union now, they can get control of this state, which may lead to the victory of the rebels.

Therefore I bet they will attack us. But how?

option 1)
They will try a frontal assault. Due to their superior number and the unexperience of the soldiers and commanders this is most liekly. I think we can give them a warm welcome. Propably they will attack shortly after dawn.

option 2) they use the night to deploy their artillery. Then they attack with artillery support. They have to bring the guns through the wood. This will delay the attack.

option 3) They start a flanking maneuvre. If I were them, I would lead my mounted infantry to the east and attack across the creek while my cavalry attacks at the western flank.

Most probably they will do a combination of 1-3. They will start with an assault, which we will repel. Then they will deploy the cannons and shell our trench. Then they assault with fresh troops. Finally the understand that they cannot break through and try to bypass us.

So what do we have to do to defeat tehm in any case?


Decision 1 – When to Wake the Men?
It is now about one hour until dawn. The men have slept for the last four hours; however it is likely that they may need more after their exertions in the late afternoon.
Option A – Wake the men now, except the Fourth Brigade.
Let them deploy in the trench. They may sleep there, only the pickets have to wake.

Decision 2 – An Early Strike?
General Rain’s pickets and scouts appear to have turned in for the night. This would be a good opportunity to launch an early strike to try to get control of the high ground.

Option C – Leave him alone

We did not dig all night long to leave the trench now, did we?

Decision 3 – Scouts
Now that dawn is approaching, you should decide where you want the majority of the scouting centred around. This will be crucial for the information you receive during the battle.

Option E – Other
- send patrols to Gibson's mill but also have pickets and patrols on the eastern side of the creek.

- have patrols at the western side, too. We cannot allow any rebels to bypass our positions unnoticed!

Only use first class cavalry for these jobs (no home guard, no dragoons!).
Tell them to avoid any combat.

I would agree with the analysis of Franc and agree with his choices.
My only concern is - will they attack? They may try to out manouvre us, but the inexperience of their troops and commanders count against them trying to do anything fancy.

Two replies aren't really anough. I will extend this by 24 hours.

Hmm, just started paying attention to this. I think Franc is dead on here, as well. I think that they will most likely attempt a frontal assault, as none of the rebel commanders are of the level of Lee or Jackson, in addition to the fact that numerical superiority has a tendency to give a person a certain degree of arrogance. I'm pretty much in agreement with his choices.

24 more hours I guess.

B

D - We run in, strike. If succesful continue destroying. If not, we run back, fighting, to the trenches.

For 3, are they numbered, I say, uh, all of 'em.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Franconicus

Decision 1 – When to Wake the Men?
It is now about one hour until dawn. The men have slept for the last four hours; however it is likely that they may need more after their exertions in the late afternoon.
Option A – Wake the men now, except the Fourth Brigade.
Let them deploy in the trench. They may sleep there, only the pickets have to wake.

Decision 2 – An Early Strike?
General Rain’s pickets and scouts appear to have turned in for the night. This would be a good opportunity to launch an early strike to try to get control of the high ground.

Option C – Leave him alone

We did not dig all night long to leave the trench now, did we?

Decision 3 – Scouts
Now that dawn is approaching, you should decide where you want the majority of the scouting centred around. This will be crucial for the information you receive during the battle.

Option E – Other
- send patrols to Gibson's mill but also have pickets and patrols on the eastern side of the creek.

- have patrols at the western side, too. We cannot allow any rebels to bypass our positions unnoticed!

Only use first class cavalry for these jobs (no home guard, no dragoons!).
Tell them to avoid any combat.

---

:yes:

1. A. I agree with the one who previously stated that the troops could sleep on in the trenches. It's fully possible that the Confederates have treid to lure us into relaxing by the removal of pickets and scouts, and make a suprise attack before, or just at dawn. We should be ready for the possibility.

2. C. There are more of them than us, and they have more cavallery. If an attack fails, we're as good as gone. I doubt that with the enemy cavallery superiority, we would be able to really retreat in good order to the trench. Also count our troops inexperience which might turn it into a full rout. Not to mention that there are more of them than of us to begin with. Lets wait for them to come to us insteed.

3. E. I'll throw in my vote with Tran and Franconicus.

Sorry guys, busy day. I will get it up tomorrow.

~;)
Looks like we have the right strategy. CA (Confederate Army) does not know what to do.~:cheers:

Chapter 5 – Dawn's First Light
August 10th, 1861 – 0502 – Dawn

You decided to wake the men an hour before dawn, with the thought that they would then be able to sleep in the trenches. However, many of the commanders are saying that their men are restless and they are nervous about the coming battle. Many of them have never seen a battle before. However, it is too late to do anything about that.

Dawn has come and it reveals some interesting things. During the night about 900 men have moved up to take a position on Rain’s left. This means that there are now about 3400 men on Bloody Hill. They seem to have only a few cannons. These have started to unlimber and will likely open fire within the next hour.

It also reveals the whereabouts of the cavalry you sent out last night. They are exactly where they were told they would be led to. They are at the town of Dixon. They appear to be holding until they can take stock of the situation. Any orders you wish to send are unlikely to reach them for another couple of hours.

You have sent out your cavalry to Gibson’s Mill, as well as a few men to observe your flanks. They will report throughout the day. You can expect your first report very soon.

Now that the day of the Battle has arrived, you must decide specifically where you want your Brigades. The Fourth will stay in reserve until they receive further orders.

There is one Hour until Dawn. You must decide what to do:

NOTE: I was going to give you maps, but I thought that it would make it more interesting if you only had your commanders’ reports to go by. Good luck :wink: Another thing is that the Confederates only have 10000 men total, when both their armies are included.

Decision 1 – Artillery Batteries
Your batteries are behind your lines and have started to unlimber. You must decide what target to shoot at for the moment. This can be reassessed later.
Option A – Target Infantry that is on the Hill
Option B – Target the Artillery on the Hill.
Option C – Target the Cavalry on the Hill.
Option D – Do not fire; wait until you can see some other targets.
Option E – Other

Decision 2 – Cavalry commands
Your cavalry regiment, the Rangers, have arrived at the town of Dixon and are currently idling there. You can send them a message if you wish
Option A – Order them to hold
Option B – Order them to attack
Option C – Order them to attack lone artillery
Option D – Do not send a message
Option E – Other

Decision 3 – Deploying your Brigades
You must decide exactly how you wish for your Brigades to be deployed. Currently it is set up with Sigel’s Second Brigade in the centre, Sturgis’ First Brigade on his left and Andrews’ Third Brigade on his right. Sigel’s Fourth Brigade is in reserve.
Option A – Leave it as is
Option B – Other

Decision 4 – A Rousing Speech
You can give your men a speech this morning. This is a free task. I am going to allow anyone who wants to write this speech. If you don’t want to, don’t worry.

Decision 1 – Artillery Batteries
Your batteries are behind your lines and have started to unlimber. You must decide what target to shoot at for the moment. This can be reassessed later.
Option A – Target Infantry that is on the Hill

On the assumption that we have a good supply of ammo - as per earlier in the thread - we should open fire on the target to give us best effect. Counter battery fire was never very successful and cavalry, although a tempting target, can easily move out of the line of fire. Infantry win battles, so let's start wearing them down, It will also possibly provoke them into action and a rash attack.
Decision 2 – Cavalry commands
Your cavalry regiment, the Rangers, have arrived at the town of Dixon and are currently idling there. You can send them a message if you wish
E - We have to be a little careful here. Dixon is to the south and the Rangers are probably to the rear of the other part of the rebel army. they should be ordered to move up the eastern banks of Wilson's Creek and to skirmish with any rebel forces they find. Their role is to distract and hinder and possibly to pull some forces away from the main fight.
Decision 3 – Deploying your Brigades
You must decide exactly how you wish for your Brigades to be deployed. Currently it is set up with Sigel’s Second Brigade in the centre, Sturgis’ First Brigade on his left and Andrews’ Third Brigade on his right. Sigel’s Fourth Brigade is in reserve.
Option A – Leave it as is - this puts a regular regiment on both flanks, so helping solidify our position.

Decision 4 – A Rousing Speech
You can give your men a speech this morning. This is a free task. I am going to allow anyone who wants to write this speech. If you don’t want to, don’t worry.
I'm not sure how effective rousing speeches before battle were in the Civil War - it was the short speeches during battle which were most effective - but I might have a crack at writing something

Decision 1 – Artillery Batteries
Your batteries are behind your lines and have started to unlimber. You must decide what target to shoot at for the moment. This can be reassessed later.

Our cannons haven't taken their positions during night. :no:
I hope their position are at least fortified!
It is still dawn. Peppering the hill (which is covered with trees) will not be very effective. Let's wait until the rebels attack. Then we can concentrate our fire. I think there will be a mixed bulk of infantry and cavalry. This will be the right target! Let the men rest or prepare their position, if they haven't done so!
Option D – Do not fire; wait until you can see some other targets.


Decision 2 – Cavalry commands
Your cavalry regiment, the Rangers, have arrived at the town of Dixon and are currently idling there. You can send them a message if you wish
Tricky. It looks like we outmaneuvred our cavalry. We need them back home to cover our flanks. Right now the enemy has loads of cavalry and we have almost none. However, will they make it back and will they make it back in time?
I am not sure what to say. Maybe somebody else has a good idea. If I had to give an order, I would tell them to attack the next best rebel unit to distract as much cavalry from the north and the march around the eastern flank and come back home.

Decision 3 – Deploying your Brigades
You must decide exactly how you wish for your Brigades to be deployed. Currently it is set up with Sigel’s Second Brigade in the centre, Sturgis’ First Brigade on his left and Andrews’ Third Brigade on his right. Sigel’s Fourth Brigade is in reserve.

Does that mean: 1st west, 2nd center, 3rd east. Then it is fine!

You can give your men a speech this morning. This is a free task. I am going to allow anyone who wants to write this speech. If you don’t want to, don’t worry.[/QUOTE]

For the German soldiers Major Osterhaus is the right person to make a speech. He did that in 'real life' and was named after that speech!!
For the English, I guess King Kurt will do it fine.

If it's not too late to join in and add my two cents (yes, I've read through the entire history).....


-Question 1: Artillery targeting.
Option B – Target the Artillery on the Hill.
Why? Our men have just spent most of the night digging trenches in wet, mucky earth. They're tired and they're scared. We're asking them to hold a defensive position against a numerically superior enemy. Once the rebel guns start firing on them, morale will plummet. We need to duel the opposing guns to silence them. We have equal positioning advantage (our artillery and theirs are both on high ground). We have roughly equal numbers of guns. However, our artillery crews are much more experienced than theirs are. If we engage in an artillery duel, we can probably win it and silence their guns, helping to maintain the precious morale of the men in the trenches. Save our grapeshot (the anti-infantry rounds) for when Rains begins to advance.

-Question 2: Franconious, the bulk of our cavalry is in Dixon, but we do have a couple of regiments anchoring our flank along the stream. Not that I think Rains is dumb enough to try to cross that stream and scale the hillside under fire. Meanwhile, Rains will be sending for artillery reinforcements. The cavalry can pick them off as they come up. I say Option C. The bulk of the cavalry down at the mill should seek to pick off artillery reinforcements coming up and we should hold off on any decisive action with them until they begin issuing reports.

Now, the big question 3, deployments...
I think we're preparing for a frontal assault, and that makes sense, that's probably what we're going to face this morning. That means the center unit will bear the brunt of the assault. This disqualifies Sigel from holding the center. He's the only brigade that is comprised entirely of recruits. Sturgis (1st brigade) and Andrews (3rd brigade) both have a regiment of professionals (the 1st US infantry & the 2nd US infantry, respectively). Of the two, Andrews has the larger force by far. He should hold the center. Sigel should hold our right flank (West, away from stream) and Sturgis should hold our left flank (East, towards the stream). The idea here is simple. When they lead their frontal assault, it will be a test of morale. They're definitely going to lose on numbers alone. The question is whether our boys have the stones to sit tight in their trenches and keep shooting when 3000 men come marching at them. We don't want the recruits holding that job.

In short, the center of the line has to hold. Option B: Other. Otherwise, our left flank will be caught between the advancing army and the stream. We must put our best troops there. Andrews (3rd) in the center. Sturgis (1st) on our left (East) flank, with the 1st US infantry abutting Andrews men and the 2nd MO infantry covering the hillside leading down to the creek.

In case anybody's interested, here's our reduced OOB, now that we've detached our cavalry and artillery.

-1st Brigade (Sturgis) 450 men total.
- 1st US infantry (300 men)
-2nd Missouri Infantry (150 men).

-2nd Brigade (Sigel) 990 men
-3rd and 5th Missouri (990 men).

-3rd Brigade (Andrews) 1050 men
-2nd US infantry 275 men
-1st Missouri Infantry 775 men

-4th Brigade (Deitzler) 2400 men (Reserve)
-1st Iowa 800 men
-1st Kansas 800 men
-2nd Kansas 600 men
- Home guards (200 men) detached: guard duty on hospital and HQ.

Does anybody else see what I'm getting at? We've placed 1/2 our men in reserve! Is it possible to switch Deitzler and Sigel's brigades? At the very least, could we detach a regiment out of Deitzler's brigade and assign it to Sigel?

Assuming we can't detach and reassign Deitzler's regiments, here's what I propose (sorry, no time to edit the battlefield map).

I'm going to position in two lines, first by brigade, then by regiment...


2nd Sigel <---> 3rd Andrews <---> 1st Sturgis

3rd/5th MO <---> 2nd US <---> 1stMO <---> 1st US <---> 2nd MO

(Sigel deployed obliquey, to guard our right flank)

Notice how the 1st MO is anchored on both sides by a veteran regiment. The relatively small 2nd MO will defend the stream ford. I said the 3rd/5th should be deployed obliquely, but in reality, they should probably form a crescent, guarding the entire western hillside.

I really hope we can detach a regiment from Deitzler. It would definitely help!

Well Don, you are right regarding the frontal assault. This is what we have to expect. However, it is not sure, that the rebels will do it. They could also try to flank our line. Then we have to have a strong reserve.

I doubt that the rebels will do the first assault with more than 2,000 men. Our front line together with the artillery is strong enough to give them a bloody welcome. I doubt that the rebel cannons can do much damage beside moral.

Once we repelled the first rebel assault, I think this will boost our moral. Depending on casualties we can deploy our reserve then.

Don Corleone
At the risk of waking up tomorrow with a horse's head, can I question a couple of your choices?
Why target the artillery? - counterbattery fire in the Civil war was never very effective, so why not fire at the infantry. They are not in trenches so will suffer accordingly - case shot or solid shot will inflict casualties and might provoke them into an attack - we are outnumbered, but the rebels have to concentrate their forces, so they will have to sit under fire until the others arrive. That could provoke an impetuious attack.
While I understand your thinking re the regulars being in the centre to bear the brunt of any attack, I feel that they would be better served by being on the wings, ensuring our flanks hold. The centre also has the benefit of a reserve behind them, so I would think Sigel's brigade would be quite sound there.