Lead, Paint and the General

Beach landing ...

2012-01-29T11:21:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

     Steve and I were able to get a late war beach landing game in this last week. It was perfect for me since its been some time for my Americans hitting the table. It was also the first time I have played a beach landing so that was a plus as well.

     Be sure to catch Steve's in depth battle report at What Would Patton Do ?

     Enjoy the pictures .... !!!

Calm before the storm ...


Unlucky landing craft ...

1st wave(L to R) ... Engineers, 81mm Mortars, Infantry

Boat 1 with Engineers, 2IC and attached Bazooka team

81mm Mortars in Boat 2

Boat 1 and 2 drift ... confusing landing action

Boat 3 lands a distance from desired point but hits the beach running ...

81mm are annihilated by beach defensive fire ...

Another boat deploys 81mm 2nd platoon ... running by their fallen 1st platoon

Priests firing from the water ...

2nd plt 81mm attempting to deploy for smoke as Infantry and Engineers move to the sea wall ...

81mm 2nd plt in action ...

1st plt of Engineers getting hammered as they run for the sea wall ...

Incoming mortar fire on the beach ...

Priest and 81mm Smoke Barrage ...

Infantry at the wall as 2nd plt of 81mm mortars support under a hail of gunfire

1st plt of Shermans hit the beach, these 2 bog as the others move to support

2nd plt of Engineers hit the beach to support the right flank ...

1st plt Infantry makes it to the wall and crosses. 2nd plt of Engineers moving to assist

3rd plt Infantry hit the beach on the left flank, past fallen soldiers of 1st and 2nd plt of 81mm Mortars

Heavy machine fire begins to stall the advance ...

1st plt Infantry makes the gap ... Engineers hit the sea wall ...

Left flank preparing to breach the gap as well ...

One of the last photos of the failed landing, right flank assault was repulsed.

My American troops went through 7 rounds of attempting to get a beach hold. The right flank was able to gap the barbed wire but failed an assault and never recovered. The left flank was also to get over the sea wall and approach the barbed wire line but were pinned by the end of 7 rounds. The single minefield was cleared as well but time ran out. Time ran thin as well as the fact that my boys were pinned, German Reserves were moving forward fast and I was not going to make the objectives by nightfall (ie round limits)

I had a blast. I was able to get my Americans on the board, play a new mission and have a blast once again hanging out with Steve. I look forward to our Eastern Front battle later this week!

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

7th Annual Ft. Lee's FOW

2012-01-24T11:37:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

A couple of Saturdays ago I was able to attend this event with Steve, Luke, Dirty John and Eric Turner. It was a doubles tournament with some different scenario rules by Ron, the tournament host. Enjoy the pictures and then check out the information regarding the event.

Our initial battleground before our General reassigned our forces

The 1000 points of Germans I commanded

The site of our first battle ...

Dirty Jon and I placing our forces ...

NEBS !

Panzer IIIs in an olive grove

Panzer III's led by Dirty Jon attempting to flank ...

My Nebs and Wespe artillery line ...

Our second battle ... push the allies off the Italian beach

Pioneers moving in trucks ...

Allies digging in just off the beach ...

There was a total of 14 teams with 28 players plus 2 Army Commanding Generals.

Allied armies were commanded by Bill. Allied armies present were

US Infantry
US Armor Infantry
US Armor
US Glider Infantry
US/Canadians Special Service Forces (SSF)
British Infantry with Churchill's
French Goumiers
Free Polish Infantry with Armor support.

German Commander was Steve of WWPD fame. German units present were

Panzer Grenadiers
Grenadiers
Panzer Company
Herman Goring Division (Which I controlled infantry and artillery of this division)
Fallschirmjagers
StuG Company

There was a total of 7 scenarios which involved the following scenerios

Modified No Retreat (Anzio and Mt Cassino)
Modified Meeting Engagement with Domination points
Frontline Domination
Cauldron
Dust Up
City fight (Not one step back)

Allied armies won 9 out of 14 games. German troops won 3 games (OUCH) and 2 games ended in draws.
German soldiers won Monte Cassino twice even with Mountaineers attacking in both rounds

After points were added up the winners of many categories were announced ...

Best Winning Generals; James & Jeff (Allies) w/Free Polish infantry with armor support
Best Losing Generals: Jen & Matt (Germans) w/PzGren and Pz Co
Best Painted Army: Tom (French Goumiers)
Best Tanker: Adam & Doug (PzGren) killed 12 tanks
Best Infantrymen: Luke & Eric with 11 successful infantry assaults

You can read more about this event at the following ...

Thanks to Ron and all that assisted with the scenarios and table setup. Awesome event indeed !

Be safe .... Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling.

Joe ... aka Mezz

American 76mm Shermans - WIP (1)

2012-01-16T12:47:00.000-08:00

Greetings Troops,

I hope your New Year Resolutions are moving along and still in effect. Welcome to my first WIP for my American forces this year. These beauty's are some 76mm Sherman Tanks that Steve and the WWPD gang gave me last year.

Granted these are just primed in black primer as we speak but it gives you an idea of where I am starting.

Add caption

4 tanks with sandbag protection, 1 without

The turret that is unprotected is the Platoon Leader

I also have another platoon of Sherman tanks to make make an Armor company for my Americans. The plan is to also add some half tracks for a platoon of Armored Rifles. I am looking forward to adding a new Company type to my Americans.

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Eastern Front Battle Photos

2011-12-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

Tuesday evening, Steve and I were able to get some FOW Eastern Front action. It was a fantastic battle that literally came down to one roll ... a snake eye by me. Here are some photos of the game. For the full AAR please visit WWPD: What Would Patton Do?

The field of battle ...

T-34/85s lining up ...

Initial forces assembling for the Russians

Tank Escorts riding in

Russian targets ... Grenadiers in the Woods

Lining up for tank escorts ...

Heavy losses for German troops

Heavy losses require the Germans to fall back

T-34/85s crash through the woods previously held by Germans

German PAK40s open up one T-34/85

Nebs adding a little dirt shower to the T-34/85s

A burning T-34/85. Escorts falling off defending to the last

PAK40s view of fire

T-34/85s pressing home on the decimated German Grenadiers

Captured Stugs used as decoys bringing up the rear

Hopeless ... They flee from the field after extreme losses

Pressing through the village

Not without a price ...

German Pioneers press in and take out 2 of the 3 decoys

Shifting to defend the new threat

Burning hulls

PAK40s bail numerous tanks ...

German Pioneers pressing towards new targets

2IC and Komissar are over-run by the speed of the Pioneer's attack

T-34/85s kill 3 out of 4 mobile PAK40s ...

Stugs from reserve are surprised by a lone T-34/85 ... the Soviet Hero kills 2 out of 3 in one action

German Pioneers still pressing into the rear of the T-34/85s formation

A bloody struggle begins in the village ... The Russians begin to fall one by one

The roll that caused the Russians to flee the field ... a close battle. 4-3 to Steve

It was a great game. I am happy to say the rolls were amazing on both sides. Great game Steve. I look forward to getting my Russians victory.

Be safe, Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling !!

Joe ... aka Mezz

Hospital Lockdown

2011-11-25T14:44:00.000-08:00

     1 hour to go, coffee is low. Not his best status post to date but it will work. Truth behind it since the coffee was horrible but free. Nathan was about caffined out and leaned back into his chair. The shift was slow. This was a good thing in terms of life in a hospital but bad for his slow shift. Nothing to do leads to boredom which leads to naps. Nathan already had 2 naps recorded on his performance apprasials.

     Spinning around in his chair, Nathan reached out for his iPod to help finish out his shift. Without warning a thunderous noise arrupted from the bay containing the body of the paramedic. The coffee suddenly went to his bladder. The lack of sleep and caffeine overload must be getting the best of him. Shrugging his shoulders, he walked over to the body storage area and noticed the storage door open.

     Turning on the lights exposed more horrors. Numerous doors to various lockers were open with bodies laying in various positions. At that moment one body sat up with a look of anger and hunger. A moan let out with others responding with a sick chorus of similar moans. Nathan didn't need a second look before running. Pain shot through his leg with lightening speed. One of the bodies had latched onto his ankle with fierce strength. Nathan reached for a fire extinguisher and slammed it into the monster's head. Blood shot everywhere as Nathan repeatedly assaulted the beast in an effort to escape.

     The target finally released Nathan due to the fact that no head remained. Nathan dragged himself across the office and reached for the phone. Numerous shadows could be seen moving towards him.

     "Security, this is Bob speaking". Nathan couldn't speak fast enough. "Bob, get some help. Something is not right and we have bodies down here eating each other!". Bob looked at the phone and smirked. It wouldn't be the first time someone has called security on nightshift goofing off. He looked at the switchboard and saw it was the ring down line from the morgue. He couldn't remember ever getting a call from them before. He didn't get a chance to answer. A loud scream came from the phone and disconnected. Bob ran to the ER looking for the off duty police officer.

Night terrors ...

2011-11-18T10:15:00.001-08:00

     Terror spreads fast. Whether by word of mouth or be it by another media, panic always ensues. In this case, terror was a nightmare that came calling during the night !

     The nursing home was conveniently located in a neighborhood as the developers had planned. Surrounded by numerous neighborhoods, families and a decent wildlife interface had allowed a major selling point for families wishing to place their loved ones into a skilled nursing facility.

     Night shift allowed the zombie plague to spread at an alarming rate. By the time staff had noticed a problem, they were either victims themselves or wounded and running. Those whom ran didn't realize that time was against them and soon they would be part of the problem.

The first zombies to wander out into the neighborhoods didn't have to walk far to find victims. The houses were less than 50 feet between each other. Those whom left their doors unlocked fell victim first. The ones whom had more secure residences were alerted to noise or barking dogs. Screams filled the night.

     The 911 center began receiving numerous calls for service. All lines both emergency and non emergency were lit up. The supervisor stood up to advise the call takers of the situation but he could see that they were actively trying to answer call after call.

     "Sir, we are receiving numerous calls for service in the same service area. We may have a fight or something larger." The dispatcher advised his supervisor and tagged another line to answer.

     The dispatcher watching over the service area began to dispatch units to the area of trouble. At the moment there was more calls for service than units available to respond.

   Unit 282 was the first unit to receive and respond. The officer knew this was an awkward call type in this area of the city. Middle class homes and businesses mostly, not the type to be having a gang war starting in the street.

Officer 282 - Experienced
Abilities - Agility d6, Smarts d6, Spirit d6, Vigor d6
Skills - Fighting d8, Guts d8, Notice d8, Shooting d8, Stealth d6
Pace: 6
Parry: 7
Toughness: 6

"282 to radio, you can show me in the area." the officer advised as he turned the corner. He rolled down his window to be able to hear or see any suspects. Oddly enough he heard screams. Numerous screams in the neighborhood. "282 to radio, be advised numerous screams in the area. Upgrade all incoming units code 3 till I advise further." Radio copied and informed the other units of 282's message.

Officer 282 stopped his car and open the driver door. An elderly gentleman wearing a hospital gown was limping towards his police car.

Elderly Male - Zombie
Abilities - Agility d6, Smarts d4, Spirit d4, Strength d6, Vigor d6
Skills - Fighting d6, Intimidation d6, Notice d4, Shooting d6
Pace: 4
Parry: 5
Toughness: 6

"Sir, are you ok?" the officer called out. The elderly male didn't answer but continued to limp forward. Officer 282 figured the subject didn't hear him and proceeded to approach the man. The patrol car's headlights were still on allowing the officer to approach and see approximately 10 feet in front of him. Something wasn't right, the officer noticed blood on the elderly males hands, face and gown

Notice d8, rolled a 6. Needed a 4 or >

Immediately the officer drew his weapon and advised the elderly male to halt. At that time the male glared at the officer and let out a horrific scream, blood and spit coming from his mouth. The officer fired one shot and hit the male.

Shooting d8, rolled a 1 and a 5 on Wild Die d6. Needed a 4 or >. HIT
9mm Damage Roll 2D6, rolled a 2 and 5. Total 7
Zombie toughness 6 vs Damage total 7 = ZOMBIE DOWN

A burst of blood and bone sprays as the officer's shot hits the subject in the head. The effect creates a crumpled mass of human. The officer approaches and nudges the male with his foot. No movement. "282 to Radio. Shot fired, male down. Roll fire to this location reference to man down."

Notice d8, rolled a 5 and 8 on Wild Die d6. Needed 4 or >

282 rolls the subject over and about screams. He notices that this male is pale and cold. His skin had numerous claw marks and bites all over his body. Sections of flesh and muscle were exposed and hanging from his small frame. An unpleasant feeling shot through his body. A feeling of unknown and fear of what else is out in the dark screaming ...

No hope ... plenty of fear

2011-11-11T06:00:00.000-08:00

     The morgue was quiet on the night shift. People think a hospital morgue is always a busy place but if that was so then the hospital wouldn't be doing what it was tasked to do, save people.

     The technician pushed the last gurney into its resting place to await the autopsy scheduled in the morning. This poor paramedic was also tagged as a crime scene investigation. The other victim or subject was parked next to him as well for the investigation. The tables were locked and the technician went back to his computer to attempt staying awake. Facebook was calling and the coffee was sub-par.

   The virus was moving before all these events took place. The nursing home had numerous infections that they were not aware of. Patients were already becoming moving dead. The hospital was just the next chapter in a virus that no one was aware of but would be soon enough. Night shift at the nursing home was as eventful as the hospital. Sleeping patients and boredom are the normal pace.

Room 10 was the first of the walking dead to stir. The elderly zombie got up and moved into rooms 9 and 8 without anyone noticing. The elderly were easy targets. The nightshift LPN heard a scream and looked up from her paperwork. Picking up her radio she walked down the dim hallway. It was not uncommon for these patients to stumble out of bed. Entering room 8 the LPN saw a patient hunched over the far bed. "Ok, let's get you back to bed." the LPN muttered as she placed her hand on his shoulder. The patient spun around and revealed its true form. The LPN screamed as the patient growled, blood all over his face and clothing. The LPN stumbled back and ran for the door. The door was useless as the other patient from Room 10 appeared. The LPN felt herself starting to blackout and knew she was better off as she slid into darkness.

Similar events were occurring throughout the nursing home. It wasn't long before the whole facility was zombie infested or food. 8 hours later the day shift would start to arrive and become the second round of victims. Unfortunately the nursing facility was located near neighborhoods. Zombies wander and wander they did.

Paperwork ?!?!

2011-11-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

I would like to welcome you to the first installment of Zombie Friday - a weekly blog post set in a post apocalypse zombie world. The story, rules and characters are developed with the Savage World Rules.

Sit back, grab a cold adult beverage and enjoy ...

Mezz

"You forgot the paperwork?!?!" - Nursing Home LPN

Sirens and red lights cut through the night as the ambulance screamed down the empty road. The initial call came out as a routine transport call from the local nursing home facility. Routine meant a one unit response and didn't require a fire department unit to respond as well. The call was upgraded to lights and sirens about a mile before the location.

The Paramedic and his EMT partner arrived to find out the call was more than routine. The elderly patient appeared to be having a stroke or heart failure. The patient's skin appeared pale, skin cold to the touch and mouth gaping wide open. The crew didn't waste anytime loading the patient to the stretcher and running past the nursing station.

"You forgot the paperwork!" The LPN shouted to the crew as they hurried by.

"Couple more minutes and we will need the funeral home Ms." shouted the Paramedic.

The crew loaded the patient into the back of the ambulance and climbed in back to begin patient care. The medic looked up and nodded to the front seat. "Get us to the nearest hospital Jimmy. I will get things straight on the way en route to the hospital." Jimmy nodded and climbed up front. His partner had more years on the job than him so no questions were needed. The ambulance surged forward.

The medic began to get his equipment ready as the ambulance moved down the road. A sudden toss and bang reminded Harry that his partner was still wet behind the ears regarding his experience. "Jimmy, don't kill me getting us to the hospital." shouted Harry from the back.

Jimmy rolled his eyes. "Don't worry Boss, I got ya covered." Jimmy replied. Harry had been riding him all day about his driving and lack of compassion for his partner in back. Jimmy reached over and turned on the radio and adjusted the volume as Guns N Roses' Welcome to the Jungle started. Welcome to the jungle indeed thought Jimmy as he hit the gas pedal.

Harry reached over and turned on the EKG monitor. He quickly placed the pads and leads on the patient and began to get his IV supplies ready to use. He glanced up and did a double take. The monitor was showing flat line. Quickly he reached over and hit the button to charge the defib. As the machine was charging he felt for a pulse.

Without warning, the patient's arm shot out and grabbed Harry by the neck. With an intense strength the patient began to pull the medic closer just Jimmy hit a rough patch of holes in the road. Harry screamed as the elderly patient pulled him in and took a huge bite out of his neck. Jimmy shook his head but didn't look back. "I told you relax Harry, I got ya covered. We will be at the hospital in 5 minutes."

The ambulance arrived in the ER parking lot and backed up to the doors. Jimmy ran to the back of the ambulance and opened up the doors. The cold air was the only thing that kept Jimmy from passing out. The back of the ambulance looked like a deer was field stripped. Blood was everywhere. The patient or what he could figure as the patient was in the corner with his head bashed in. Harry was on the floor bleeding heavy. He was placing direct pressure on the neck wound and breathing heavy.

Jimmy ran for the ER staff to help. Quickly they rushed Harry into the ER but it was too late. Harry died within 10 minutes. Both bodies were placed into the hospital morgue as the police began to investigate the ambulance and crime scene. Unfortunately, the state's coroners office would have to come get the patients in the morning.

8 hours ... it was all that was needed. It was too late.

Thank You !

2011-11-03T07:04:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

I wanted to say thank you to my readers for sticking around while I got things straight with life. I find it great to see that I didn't lose any followers during this time. This is a nice sign that the followers enjoy the blog.

I plan on priming some items today since the weather is not too shabby here in Virginia at this time of year. This includes a second squad (platoon) for my Russians and some American Armor to help the change of pace feeling you need while painting a Russian horde.

Also look to a Savage World developing story with post apocalypse zombie survival. Thanks to the AMC hit, The Walking Dead, I am going to start a story line for the blog. Plan on seeing a posting each Friday or every other Friday.

KEEP THE PAINT FLOWING AND THE DICE ROLLING !!!!!

Joe ... aka "Mezz"

Hello ! Is it me your looking for ?

2011-09-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

I have not forgotten about you ! Life throws curveballs and I am swinging like a pro. Please be patient as more post will come once things work out.

Thanks for the understanding !

Joe ... aka Mezz

I95 Guns of August Photos

2011-08-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Greetings Troops,

The I95 guys have posted 125 photos of FOW gaming goodness.

You can see them at this link : I95 GOA 2011

Enjoy ... be safe. Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice Rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Merchants & Marauders Review

2011-08-12T05:51:00.000-07:00

Greetings Troops,

I have been looking at this game for some time now. It has been receiving great reviews from numerous blogs and podcasts. So here is a brief summary of the game ...

Published in 2010
For 2 to 4 players
Approximately 2 hours for game play
5 different ships types for a total of 26 ship pieces
230 game cards
16 captain types

The other night I was able to join Steve and his friend Luke to set sail into the Age of Piracy. This was the first time I actually set hands on the game and its board pieces. I was happy to see the pieces were well made, durable and look fabulous !

We all took our seats with our adult beverages (grog, if you wish to pretend) and picked our Captains.To make it interesting we drew our captain cards randomly without looking. Once we had the Captain, we chose one of the two starting ships, a sloop or a flute. Each Captain has a "home" port where you can call home and stash gold during your adventure.

Board Setup for 3 Players

Various ship pieces

My first Captain ...

My first Captain Felipe De Los Reyes was my first random Captain I chose. He had decent stats and being my first Captain I was not sure whether to turn to piracy or trade on the high seas. He would find out how cruel the seas would be soon enough.

My first ship, a sloop. In port ...

As you enter port you are allowed numerous options. The first is buying and/or selling cargo. The tile shown above is "favored" trade of the port, meaning if you sell this cargo you earn more gold than selling other cargo types. This is a major advantage to playing the merchant class but also helps pirates figure out what cargo to keep after capturing ships.

You are also able to upgrade your ship with special items. It could upgrade weapons, crews or other items that add bonus to your ship. Ships can be bought or sold as well in port.

Rumors and Missions can also be picked up at port. These gain your crew a bounty of wealth or glory points if completed. Our games had some of these cards in play. One of which I sent naval ships after Luke for revenge of taking out Captain Los Reyes.

The board in action ...

My second ship after the glorious demise of my sloop

My flute in the port of Trinidad

My first Captain, and the cost of his demise ... by the hands of Luke the Pirate

Stat board for your ship

My second Captain of the first game.

Luke and Steve battle in the high seas

Battles between ships are fast and furious. The rules are not hard to understand and most pick them up with ease after a couple of battles. Luke was the bloodthirsty pirate and had the evil honor of attacking the most player Captains. Not only can player Captains attack but NPC pirate ships and naval ships will actively hunt once on the board.

My Captain of the second game ... a merchant favored Captain

The beauty of randomly picking Captains is the challenge. Stats definitely play a part in the game. For example, my Captain of the second game didn't have the stats to attack at a whim. Although his Spotting stat and Influence helped with other missions. I played him as a merchant, scoring 9 glory points.

The board in action of the second game

The feel and mechanics of this game are on spot. The board and pieces are well made and make the game work. I had a blast. It is definitely a game that should be on any gamers bookshelf. I can't wait to get more games in at the WWPD war room. Thanks again to Steve and Luke for an awesome game night !

5 out of 5 grog barrels !

Be safe ... Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling !!!

Joe ... aka Mezz

What D&D Character Am I ?

2011-07-23T06:48:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

I came across a fun website which was shared by Dr. Willett's Workshop, a great blog that can be seen here.

His latest post involves a website that allows you to answer numerous questions to see what character you would seem to play in Dungeons & Dragons. Be warned it is 129 questions but it goes fast. Here is my results. You can find "What D&D Character Am I?" via this link.

I Am A: Lawful Good Human Ranger (4th Level)

Ability Scores:

Strength-14

Dexterity-14

Constitution-13

Intelligence-14

Wisdom-18

Charisma-12

Alignment:
Lawful Good A lawful good character acts as a good person is expected or required to act. He combines a commitment to oppose evil with the discipline to fight relentlessly. He tells the truth, keeps his word, helps those in need, and speaks out against injustice. A lawful good character hates to see the guilty go unpunished. Lawful good is the best alignment you can be because it combines honor and compassion. However, lawful good can be a dangerous alignment because it restricts freedom and criminalizes self-interest.

Race:
Humans are the most adaptable of the common races. Short generations and a penchant for migration and conquest have made them physically diverse as well. Humans are often unorthodox in their dress, sporting unusual hairstyles, fanciful clothes, tattoos, and the like.

Class:
Rangers are skilled stalkers and hunters who make their home in the woods. Their martial skill is nearly the equal of the fighter, but they lack the latter's dedication to the craft of fighting. Instead, the ranger focuses his skills and training on a specific enemy a type of creature he bears a vengeful grudge against and hunts above all others. Rangers often accept the role of protector, aiding those who live in or travel through the woods. His skills allow him to move quietly and stick to the shadows, especially in natural settings, and he also has special knowledge of certain types of creatures. Finally, an experienced ranger has such a tie to nature that he can actually draw on natural power to cast divine spells, much as a druid does, and like a druid he is often accompanied by animal companions. A ranger's Wisdom score should be high, as this determines the maximum spell level that he can cast.

Find out What Kind of Dungeons and Dragons Character Would You Be?, courtesy of Easydamus (e-mail)

Comrades to Arms ! (11) - Russian Anti-tank Platoon WIP

2011-07-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

On to the next project ! I am currently working on my Russian Anti-tank platoon. I thought I would post some photos for your viewing enjoyment. The main uniform is being done in Khaki, which is an alternate uniform color. The hardest part with these guys is the two soldiers carrying the same anti-tank rifle. It's a difficult thing to place and paint. I haven't thought of a good method yet.

Here are some WIPs ... Enjoy

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Infantry Aces - Eastern Front

2011-07-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

Товарищи!

Пришло время ехать гуннов с Родиной. Мы будем стоять плечом к плечу и бороться со всем, наш славный народ дал нам, чтобы победить. Ни шагу назад. Вперед мои храбрые товарищи.

Kommisar Нельсон - первая компания, 1-й батальон Strelkovy

*****

Comrades !

Time has come to drive the Huns from the Motherland. We will stand side by side and fight with everything our glorious nation has given us to win. Not one step back. Forward my brave Comrades.
Kommisar Nelson - 1st Company, 1st Strelkovy Battalion

*****

The WWPD Escalation league for Eastern Front has begun. Sunday evening Sean, Steve and I assembled for pizza, adult beverages and the start of our Infantry Aces/Escalation League. Steve already has his AAR posted at WWPD.

Over the last couple of months, we have all been assembling forces to be used in Eastern Front. Our readers have asked for it and it shall be given! Sean has been getting his Finnish forces up and running. They look fabulous. Steve decided to make the Russian plunge since it was the only force that was not represented in his collection. Steve and I also felt it was easier for us to tag team Russian forces since at the time I was still in school and had a lack of hobby time available. As you can see at WWPD and on LPG, the Russian factories are pushing out the armies of the People.

450 points was our point starting point since we have small numbers of represented forces. It was also hard to zero in on the 500 mark with the Eastern Front lists, so 450 was a nice compromise to the situation. The photos will describe the battle. Enjoy

1st Company on the left flank

Company CO - 1st Company

Kommissar Nelson of 1st Company

Kommissar Steve's 1st SMG Company on the right flank

1st Company moving forward on the right flank

Sean's Finns deploy their ambush !

1st Company still surges forward

1st SMG Company moves forward on the left flank

Hold your FIRE ! NOW !

11 hits by the Finns, 11 saves by the Russians

1st Company takes out the Finns 2IC

Not so lucky on the Finns shooting step ...

Forward for the Motherland! Assault phase ...

Finns counterattack with brutal results ...

1st Company fighting to the last man ...

1st Company is destroyed ...

Russian SMGs approaching the left flank ...

SMGs assault the Finns positions ...

Russian Soldiers storm the objective, hold it without any Finnish forces able to contest !!

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice Rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Comrades to Arms ! (10) - 1st Company Complete

2011-07-17T20:16:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

A glorious day for Mother Russia. Our sons of 1st Company are complete and will be deploying to halt the German Huns. 1st Company consists of the Lieutenant, Kommissar and 9 squads of infantry. 1st Company has an extra squad due to forming of squads. (ie instead of 5 a stand I placed 4, so it gave me an extra squad.)

** The unit consists of 12 stands of infantry. They number 45 men. **

Here are some pictures.

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka "Mezz"

Comrades to Arms ! (9) - WIP 1st Company

2011-07-15T06:14:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

This evening I was able to get in a paint night with Steve. It was a great time. Tasty adult beverages were consumed and Enemy at the Gates was the movie to make the paint flow. I was able to get the bases finished as far as paint goes. Humidity has put a slow on my matte. I was also able to finish up the first paint to my anti-tank platoon ( and a first coat of wash)

Tasty adult beverages ....

Steve's Assault Company of SMGs ... lovely sculpts. I will getting some of these for sure.

Jedi Master and mentor, Steve of WWPD fame at work ...

Enjoy the pics, be safe ...

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ....

Joe ... aka Mezz

New Unit Addition

2011-06-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

I was able to recently purchase 4 US Stuarts from Dirty Jon to add to my US Forces. They are painted awesome and ready to bring the fight to their opponents. Thanks Dirty Jon !

Here are the pictures ... enjoy

Be safe ... Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka "Mezz"

WWPD: News from the Front - Episode 21 "WOW"

2011-06-20T07:23:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

Yesterday evening I was able to participate in the recording of Episode 21 of WWPD:News from the Front. It was great to get back into the mic seat and enjoyed a good episode with Steve and Dirty Jon.

You can subscribe via iTunes or the link provided at WWPD

If there is anything you wish us to cover in the cast you can hit our emails. Mine is joe@whatwouldpattondo.net

Enjoy ! Be safe ... Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka "Mezz"

Comrades to Arms (8) - WIP First Company

2011-06-18T07:59:00.000-07:00

Greetings Troops,

Here are a couple WIP shots of the First Company participating in "field maneuvers" ie basing.

Here is 1st Anti-tank Platoon forming up for "recruiting" ie Popsicle stick for priming ...

Enjoy ... be safe. Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka "Mezz"

New Lt ! US Army Vs Italians

2011-06-16T11:14:00.000-07:00

Greeting Troops,

Steve and I were able to get a game in on Tuesday evening. I was running Americans against Steve's Italians. Since school has been hard on gaming time, Steve took the time to use this game as a learning mission as well as a dusting of my cobwebs in the brain. It was a great battle and I learned tons ! I have found some additions to my American forces for future painting as well ! Thanks to Steve for the learning experience, it will be put to good use !

You can catch the AAR at Steve's site ... What Would Patton Do ?

Enjoy !

Be safe ... Keep the paint flowing and the dice rolling !

Joe ... aka "Mezz"

Thank You

2011-05-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

As we here in the States celebrate Memorial Day, I want to extend a heartfelt thanks to all those who served our country past and present ... without those who served or serving we would not have the freedoms we enjoy today.

To those I served with ... it was an honor ...

To those who served before me ... thank you

To those who gave it all for us ... words are not enough ... God bless you !

Be safe, enjoy your Memorial day ...

Joe ... aka "Mezz"

Comrades to Arms ! (7) - WIP First Company

2011-05-28T18:03:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

This year has been a blur with my various schools going on for work. I can say there is light at the end of the tunnel and the hobby time will be more soon. I wanted to get some of the photos up of First Company nearing "field maneuvers" i.e. basing.

These photos are for you Pete ;)

The next pictures consist of another method suggested to me by friend and fellow WWPD'er Pete. It involves priming the figures in German Armor, then doing the same method for the rest of the painting I am doing. Highlighting should bring the colors in line with the rest of the unit.

The final shots are of the figures that will be hitting the bases tomorrow. Then this group will begin the "field maneuvers".

Steve, friend and the leader at WWPD has numerous T34 tanks in production as I type this post. His tanks will be joining forces with my infantry on the table to get some East Front action going.

Enjoy the pictures, be safe .... Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling !

Joe ... aka "Mezz"

Game Review: Wrath of Ashardalon

2011-05-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

This evening I was able to meet with Steve and Dirty Jon of the WWPD cast; along with wives Lydia and Stephanie to get some game time in with D&D's Wrath of Ashardalon.

Wrath of Ashardalon is a board game produced by Wizards of the Coast. It was released in February of 2011. The game contains 42 plastic heroes and monsters, 13 dungeon tiles, 200 encounter and treasure cards, rulebook, scenario book and a 20 sided die.

The figures are molded in different colors. The heroes are molded in a dark blue while monsters and bosses are either red or gray. I will say that the molds are clean and look great. They look good unpainted and will be excellent looking on the game board once painted.

The dungeon tiles are of heavy cardboard and well made to last during numerous game plays. You have your various long hallways, t sections and corners. The set also has 5 (correct number may be 4 or 6 as well) chamber tiles for the final boss or event for the adventures to find.

Encounter cards produce nasty little events for either one or all in the party depending on locations or other bonuses or effects. It adds a sense of "What else can happen" during the adventure. It ranges from traps, magic or unseen attacks that can take place. Treasure cards are received by the adventure whom takes out a monster. It can range from protective items, bonuses on attacks or armor class or movement bonuses. Some are able to be used all game while other treasures must be discarded after use.

The rules are fairly simple and one can grasp the basics after a couple of rounds. There is also a scenario book to allow for campaigns of your brave party or single run missions.

I was able to get two games in one sitting. The first was 5 people playing and total game time was approximately 2 hours. Steve and I played another game with 2 characters and ran a game in just short of 1 hour.

I am sure you will see some AARs out of this board game in the future. The tiles allow for you to use D&D minis or other after market minis with no issues. The replay value is high. I give this game 4.5 treasure cards out of 5 !

Be safe .... Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ....

Mezz

AAR of the 1st ID vs Germans

2011-05-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

The other evening I was able to meet up at Jon's house to challenge Sean in a Fighting Withdrawal mission. As our battle was brewing Jon was battling out with Steve's 3rd ID on his new table he is building; which looks fab ! James, a fellow WWPD listener from Illinois was able to hang out as well. He is currently at Fort Lee attending an Officer School.

Needless to say my 1st ID was handed its butt by Sean's German forces.

1st platoon double timed on the right flank and got pinned by a combination of aircraft and rocket fire. They took horrible losses, never unpinned and eventually left the field.
2nd platoon didn't do much better on the left flank. They got ambushed by Panzer IVs and remained pinned after that. They too left the field.
My M10's took heavy fire from Sean's aircraft attack runs and left the field as well.
My Engineers were moving up the middle and got pinned in between some woods. They took a beating and eventually left the field with their heads down.
My Shermans played a cat and mouse game with Sean's Stugs and Panzer IVs. They were getting bailed and remounting round after round. At one time I had 3 bailed shermans sitting in a cornfield. Eventually they were destroyed.
The Company was below half and the CO rolled a "1" to allow the 1st ID to surrender the field.

Sean played an awesome game. His combination of rockets and aircraft runs literally put my troops into a scared stiff position. I may have to consider getting an aircraft option myself or start including an antiaircraft unit that can swat back or suppress infantry.

I took pictures via my camera phone. Most are early in the battle ... the combat photographer was hiding in a hasty fighting position in the later stages of battle. Unfortunately I can't get them to you on the site yet due to phone error. When I can I will post them.

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Roll a D6!

2011-05-05T11:58:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

Found this gem on YouTube ... I thought it was something we all could relate to ... enjoy.

Joe ... aka Mezz

Battletech: Lyran Alliance

2011-05-03T07:40:00.000-07:00

Battletech has always been close to my gaming heart. It is one of the first gaming systems I participated in during my childhood days. The novels were also lining my shelves as a teenager as well. So it is only a natural progression to find its way back into my gaming world now.

The background story of the Battletech universe is well established and well developed. You can find numerous sources on the web at these sites:

Recently I pulled out my Citytech set and main rulebook and began refreshing myself to the universe. Ebay then was the source of a recent purchase of the Lyran Commonwealth source book. I just got it in the mail and can't wait to dive into it.

Stay tuned for updates and force building of BATTLETECH !

Be safe, Keep the paint flowing and the dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Stylish Blogger Award ... I have no speech ready !?!?!

2011-04-28T17:30:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

I am very humble to say that I have been nominated by my good friend and WWPD show host Steve ! The Stylish Blogger Award is an award that is given to you by your peers and fellow bloggers in cyberspace. The award has some simple rules to follow by:

1. Thank and link back to the person giving you the award

Thank you for the kind words and support Steve. I am happy to know that you feel my painting skills are good. Please visit his awesome blog: What Would Patton Do ?

2. Share seven things about yourself

I am married and have 1 daughter. Being a Dad is very rewarding and I love sharing new things with my daughter.
I am a career firefighter and have been in the fire service since 1994.
I was in the US Army Reserves as a combat medic for 8 years.
I LOVE Star Wars, Episodes IV - VI were what I grew up on and feel are the excellent ones. The new prequels were ok ... but did nothing for me like the originals
Battlestar Galactica is AWESOME ... I can't wait for the new series to come out.
I love to read. History, sci fi and fantasy are all on my book shelf.
I have a soft side for dogs. Sorry ... cats are not on the radar.

3. Select 10-15 blogs who you think deserve this award

AJ's Wargaming Blog - Great blog with frequent updates.
AV's Corner - Hein's awesome blog with files for your FOW forces ...
BigLee's Miniature Adventures - Big Lee is a fellow blog friend from England. His blog has a great following and awesome posts. His blog is one of the originals that I first started to follow.
Captain Richard's Miniature Civil War - Captain Richard has some of the best 15mm Civil war photos I have seen on the web. You will not be disappointed.
Crac des Chevaliers - Beautiful work with every post ...
Fields of Armor - Always fun to see the new post !
Fire for Effect! - Blog author Max has some great articles and postings for your FOW fix
Kevin's Miniature and Hobby Table - I love seeing his painting examples and tutorials. Never disappointed !
Paint Pig - Whats not to love ... Pork, painting and miniatures!
Savage Timmy's Playhouse - Always a treat, Tim's site pointed me towards Savage Worlds !
Scary Biscuits Studios - Awesome site and the Scary Biscuit is the one who pushed me over the Russian FOW fence!!!
Super Galactic Dreadnought - Desert Scribe's awesome Space battle world !
The Wildcat's Lair - My friend Bill and his zany cast of pets and creatures ... awesome site

There are plenty more and many have already received the award, so there are many I couldn't add because someone beat me to it !!!

4. Contact these bloggers and let them know about the award

Many are readers and will see the reward !

So please visit the blogs mentioned above. They all are great blogs and add to this great gaming community.

Be safe, Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Stalin's Organs ... For Luke (2)

2011-04-16T08:52:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

Saturday mornings ... quiet time as the Wife and little one head to dance class in the morning. What is there to do ? Of course hitting the models and getting some quiet time by turning off the television and relaxing.

Some more pictures of the Little Katies. The crews are done. I am basing the trucks and getting them straight before placing the crews and rocket system. Crews will be placed and then I will matte the base/truck and crews before adding the rocket rack last. If I add the rocket racks before all that I feel the basing will be harder to accomplish.

After adding some basing to the truck stands, I had extra time to get the next project in order. 1st Platoon of 1st Company has been assembled for basic training (ie priming on Popsicle sticks). Here is the task at hand ... 12 stands equaling 45 soldiers (10 stands of infantry, 1 Komissar stand and 1 Officer stand )

So as the glue dries, I typed up this blog update. Enjoy the pictures and stay tuned.

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling !!!

Joe ... aka Mezz

Stalin's Organs ... For Luke

2011-04-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

Greetings Troops,

Just some WIP of the Russian Rocket trucks I am building for my friend Luke. The crews were completed after I took these pictures. Enjoy ...

Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling ....

Joe ... aka Mezz

Comrades to Arms ! (6) - Russian Company HQ

2011-04-12T19:07:00.000-07:00

Greetings Troops,

Sorry for the lack of updates or postings recently. Life has done its best to wrestle my free time from me this month. Paramedic school and Hazardous Material Technician have taken much free time lately.

I have finished my Russian Company HQ blister. 8 stands of 19 figures have graduated from basic training, field maneuvers and assembled for duty (Popsicle sticks, painting and basing respectively). Here are the finished pictures ...

Russian Company HQ

Russian Officers

Komissars

HQ HMG Team

HQ Light Mortars

Next up is the first platoon (squad) for 1st Company (platoon). They are currently forming up for basic training (Popsicle sticks and primer).

I am still looking for decent methods for making the Russian flag for the various command squads. Does anyone have any suggestions that worked for them ?

Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling ....

Joe ... aka Mezz

AAR - SS Panzergrenadiers VS US Glider Infantry (2)

2011-04-03T13:24:00.000-07:00

Greetings Troops,

Here are the followup photos from my last battle with Sean. Enjoy.

German Infantry getting into the wire ...

Left flank approached on the road by panzergrenadiers ...

Left flank HMGs hit the enemy hard. They will retreat due to the gun fire ...

Center of the flank with plenty of targets ...

Right flank's view of Center

German Infantry pushing forward ...

Right flank hits with defensive fire but the Germans keep coming ...

German infantry slams into the weakened right flank of the US ...

Remaining teams pull back to consolidate ...

At this point we had to stop so I could get home. It was a great game and would have loved to see how it would have continued. Till next time ... Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

AAR - SS Panzergrenadiers vs US Glider Infantry

2011-03-30T09:48:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

Monday evening, I was able to get a great battle in with Sean at Steve's house. The German forces were rolled for before the game to add a hint of fog of war. The scenario was also rolled for with the result being Trench Fight with Sean's forces being the 12th SS Panzergrenadiers (Fearless Veteran). I brought my US Glider troops (Confident Trained, Armor Support Confident Veteran) to the fight. Total force point load out was 1750.

Steve briefly covered the battle with some awesome pictures. Check it out ... WWPD

It was a great mission to play because ...

I never had used trenches and defenses before. So this was an awesome opportunity
Sean has never attacked entrenched troops. So this was an awesome opportunity for him.
I got to play Sean in a game which was great because we haven't had a chance to do such in a long time.

Sean had the following to command ...

12.SS Gepanzerte Panzergrenadiers (Fearless vet)

HQ + 2 Panzerfausts + Panzerschreck
Gepanzerte Panzergrenadier Platoon w/ Panzerfaust
Gepanzerte Panzergrenadier Platoon w/ Panzerfaust
SS Scout Platoon (3 teams in kubelwagons)
SS Panzer Platoon (4x Panzer IV H)
Assault Tank Platoon (4x Heer Brummbars)(CV)
Armored Rocket Battery (Heer Panzerwerfers w/ crew)(CV)

I was commanding the following ...

US 327th Glider Infantry

HQ + 3 Bazookas
Glider Rifle Platoon
Glider Rifle Platoon
Engineers + 3 Bazookas
Weapons Platoon (LMGs attached out)
81mm Mortar Platoon
5x Shermans (from 2ID- CV)
M10 Tank Destroyers (CV)

Fair right of the American lines.

Objective near the center of the American lines

Engineers with additional bazooka support on the American left flank

German advance on the American right flank

American left flank looking down the line towards the right flank

I can see for miles and miles ... of barbed wire & minefields

Expanded view of the American Front

German advance on the left flank

A preliminary artillery barrage hits the center and right flank !

View of the barrage from the center of the line.

German advance on the right flank ....

Engineer HMG covering the road approach on the left flank ...

German Panzergrenadiers disembark their transports to advance

American Infantry view on the left flank

Panzer IVs crash through the church wall to get around minefields. Tank 2 bogs in the rubble

American Command screaming to hold the line !!!

Left flank getting ready for the onslaught ...

Panzergrenadiers advancing towards the wire of the right flank

INTO THE WIRE !

Left flank forming for an assault. A brummbar bogs in the woods and is ripe for an assault!

Center of the American lines ...

The center's view of the upcoming assault ...

The right flank already showing signs of weakness. can they survive ?

I will leave you off here till the next posting. It will conclude the final photos of our battle ... till then ...

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Work in Progress

2011-03-27T05:23:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

Just some quick photos. Nothing spectacular to type about but wanted you all to know work is being done.

Enjoy

Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Comrades till the End ...

2011-03-21T19:07:00.000-07:00

Comrade Джо Мессерле sat on the bench and let out a deep sigh. Other villagers from surrounding lands shuffled by to sign their names in the defense for the Motherland. A party Komissar sat at the table and nodded with delight as the men signed names with no regret or fear.

In truth, he had no choice. Germans had brought war and suffering to the Motherland. Her troops were being pushed back and needed help. Comrade Stalin had not expected Germany to launch an assault into the heart of Russia. Everyone including women and children would have to suffer and give to push these huns from the Motherland. He was ready to do his part.

"Come Comrades!" The Komissar yelled as he stood from the table.

"Join me and give all for the Motherland. You have pledged your loyalty. Now it is your country that will provide you the tools and skills to defeat these German invaders! Come, now is time."

Джо Мессерле was no longer a citizen. He was a defender of the Motherland.

** This is a character that will be included in AARs of our new escalation league for Eastern Front. **

Joe ... aka Mezz

Comrades to Arms! (5)

2011-03-21T05:36:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

Company HQ has finished Basic training (Popsicle sticks) and have began field maneuvers (basing).

The Company HQ consists of 2 Platoon Leaders, 2 Komissars, 3 Light Mortars and 1 HMG team. Basing is in progress as we speak. 8 more stands totaling 19 more men to fight for the Motherland ! The Army is currently at 16 stands totaling 36 men ! It has only just begun ...

Company officers

Komissars of Company HQ

Light Mortars

HMG Team

Light Mortar

Komissar

Lieutenant

Light Mortar

The last two pictures are of a truck that is part of a Rocket Platoon. These are for my friend Luke, of WWPD gang fame. I started with Russian green primer and then used Delvan Mud Wash in the grooves. I still have to detail touch metal spots and some dirt as well as basing. Keep on the look out for these on future blog posts.

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling !

Joe ... aka Mezz

Comrades to Arms! (4)

2011-03-16T11:55:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

Here is the completed Battalion HQ in all her glory. 8 stands totaling 21 figures. The new method rocks and will be a consistent throughout the Russian forces mobilization. My Company HQ has the first coat placed and will be receiving their first coat of wash this evening. The first platoon of strelkovy will be reporting to infantry basic training (ie Popsicle sticks) in the next day or so.

Enjoy ...

Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Still here ...

2011-03-12T19:14:00.001-08:00

Hey troops,

Little update .... busy month so far between family life, school and work. The Russian hq is almost ready for the wash process. I will also try to get the final photos up for the finished battalion hq. I am also painting a small group of rocket trucks for my friend Luke. I will get those up soon as well.

Be safe, keep the paint flowing and the dice rolling ....

Joe ... aka Mezz

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WWPD: News from the Front - Episode 14

2011-03-03T16:51:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

Brief message to let you guys know that the newest episode of the podcast is out.

You can grab it via iTunes or follow links provided at ...

WWPD: What Would Patton Do ?

Enjoy ... Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Comrades to Arms! (3)

2011-03-01T17:19:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

Battalion HQ has been based! Also, the weather allowed me to be able to undercoat the Company HQ on the basic training "sticks". So for your viewing pleasure please take a look at the based Battalion HQ (in drying phase).

Let me know what you think of the new method showing highlighted after 2 wash coats.

Company HQ being "recruited" for basic training ... ie primed on Popsicle sticks

Battalion HQ ... CIC

Battalion HQ ... 2IC

OIC stand ...

Komissar stand ...

Komissar stands ...

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Comrades to Arms ! (2)

2011-02-23T15:16:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

This is the 2nd installment of my developing Russian army. As you know we are moving towards a 500 point beginning force in our Eastern Front Escalation league.

I was able to score some of the super GW Devlan Wash for my Russians. I have painted the models in the base colors and then applied the GW Wash !

Before the Wash ...

After the Wash ...

I will apply a 2nd coat of Delvan Wash and then highlight them again with the appropriate colors. I will say that this method for me seems to move faster then my previous methods. Now with that said I like the old method but it is not feasible to paint the large amounts of forces required for Mother Russia.

Let me know what you think ?

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling !

Joe ... aka Mezz

Comrades to Arms !

2011-02-18T13:58:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

As my fellow troops know, I am currently raising a Russian Army for Flames of War. I recently ventured down to the local game shop and used a Christmas gift card to purchase some items to assist with raising my 500 points for our escalation Eastern Front armies.

I was able to pick up a Soviet paint set since I was missing a couple of vital colors for the brave soldiers of the Motherland. Next I grabbed a

Battalion HQ blister
Company HQ blister
LW Strelkovy Infantry Platoon blister

Now ... before you light up the comments field, I am aware that I need tons more to complete my 500 points but give me time :) Most likely will be adding a mortar platoon for my next point increase for May.

Here are some shots of the primed Battalion HQ and the color process beginning. I have decided that this brave 500 point force is being raised to defend Steve-o-grad and have recently been "recruited" from the local areas. I am still deciding how I am gonna base them. I have figured that different companies (platoons for the rest of the FOW armies) will be based different to assist in telling them apart.

I also attempted a new technique that I read about on the FOW forums. I usually paint the high areas and leave the recessed areas black to make em pop. It looks great but takes some time. So the new technique I paint all areas full color of requirement, then hit the mini with brown GW wash, let dry and then hit the high areas with the original color. It seems to work .... The forum says to use Devlin GW wash but I have the brown wash and wanted to see if it would do the trick.

New method on the left, Old on the right

New Method (Left), Old Method (Right)

Brown GW Wash applied on Left, None on the Right

Old Method without the wash

New Method with Wash on Left, Old Method with no Wash on right

With Wash, Highlighting the raised areas with original color

Old Method, No wash

Old Method on Left, New Method with Wash and Highlight on Right

New Method on Left, Old Method on Right

Enjoy the simple yet primed forces of the Battalion HQ ... for the MOTHERLAND ! Let me know what ya think ? The wash went quicker then hitting highlights alone ... but its a new technique ..... sound off which you like better !!

Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

WWPD: News from the Front - Episode 13

2011-02-14T06:35:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

The latest edition of WWPD:News From The Front, Episode 13 is out .... via these links and iTunes !!!

Enjoy the cast and feel free to email me with any questions or concerns !!

Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling !

Joe ... aka Mezz

76mm US Shermans !

2011-02-13T17:55:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

Amazing how when one army is completed that we move on to the next one !

Thanks to some awesome donations I have enough tanks to start a US Army Armor Company. I have one platoon of five 75mm US Shermans already completed (2010) so this will be the 2nd platoon. 76mm Shermans are being built and primed as we speak ! Here is some pre primed and slightly assembled photo goodness for ya !

A platoon of 5 ... 76 mm Shermans

This will be the Officer's tank ... no sandbags, easy to identify

More to follow ! Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling !

Joe ... aka Mezz

Setting a Course ... and Battle plans

2011-02-11T11:27:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

First I would like to extend a hearty welcome to the newest troops whom have joined the ranks in the past few weeks ! I hope to continue the interesting postings for your future enjoyment.

I would like to advise my readers and troops that I have changed course for my 2011 project. Now, I know you are all shocked by the change ... No ? .... we all do it in this great hobby (as we all nod in agreement)

My major project for this year coincides with Steve of WWPD fame. As readers of his blog know he has started Steve-o-grad, an adventure in city fights and Eastern Front warfare. Take a look at his recent posting regarding his adventure; JR miniatures hmmmm .... Steveograd Link !!!

So where was I ? Yes ... my decision was to start a Soviet army. Crazy ? Yes ... but there was a couple of reasons behind Crazy Comrade Mezz's choice.

We really don't have many Soviet players in our group. So its a perfect choice since I like to have an army that others don't have. Steve needs Soviets to fight his Germans in the city ! I have also come across many Soviets in tournaments with no experience playing against them. So what better way to learn than run them yourself !
I love modeling and painting as much as I love wargaming. The soviets have tons ... in each army. Win FOR ME !
I find the Eastern Front interesting. It's an amazing front to model. Germans, Soviets, Italians, Finns, Romanians and Hungarians. The variety of weapons and troops is amazing. A modelers dream !
The Russians have interesting break down of forces. You can chose experienced Guard divisions, City Militia groups defending their homes and families to penal companies. The idea of a fearless conscript force is crazy. Especially with Komissars commanding the push forward.

Right now I am in planning stages. I am currently reading the Eastern Front book and getting ideas. I have decided that I will start painting infantry companies first since they can be used throughout the Soviet armies. I also like the idea of tank riders and the submachine gun companies. So they too are on the list. Stay tuned for sure ... will be plenty of updates.

On other fronts, I have begun to get the 76mm Shermans for the Americans started. Assembly is going smooth and they too will be primed this weekend. After them I have some more 75mm Shermans and some armored half-track mortars to start. Thanks to the generous donations from The View from the Turret guys I am getting an armor company started. I already have a 5 tank US Sherman platoon painted for my current US army.

Be on the lookout as well for Episode 13 of News from the Front. We recorded yesterday and it will be out sometime next week !

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ....

Joe ... aka "Mezz"

Thoughts of Williamsburg Muster 2011

2011-02-07T13:13:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

On the previous posting I posted the pictures of the Williamsburg Muster. I had a blast ... minus the allergies that attacked me. Steve and I carpooled up and meet fellow WWPD'ers Dirty Jon and Luke. 20 players I believe made the trip so we had a great mix of troops to play against.

I played Steve in Game 1, Mad Dog Tom (another fellow gamer) in Game 2 and finished off against Otto in Game 3. Since it has been a couple of days I can't remember specific forces but I will give a brief run down and what I learned from my losses (which was all three games lol)

For the tournament I brought an HQ (with 2 bazookas extra), 2 Rifle Platoons, 1 Weapons platoon (LMGs and 60mm Mortars), 81mm Mortar Platoon, Combat Engineer platoon (3 extra bazookas), 5 Shermans and a M-10 Platoon.

Steve and I were taking the field in Game 1. There was bocage and buildings through out the board. Steve was running Germans, which consisted of mechanized troops, Panzer IVs, Nebs, 2 Tigers and 3 Pumas. I was running the Big Red 1 infantry. Long story short ... Steve zipped up the middle with his transports and was able to swing behind my forces. One platoon evaporated under a hail of machine gun fire. My engineers were pinned and slowly chewed up by Tiger machine guns. Reserves never showed and eventually I had nothing that could contest. Steve's game 6-1.

I learned that I shouldn't have left the Shermans off the table. They would have been a great cover for the infantry. I had brought out mortars thinking I was gonna smoke for troop movement but failed to grasp that my troops wouldn't need it it we got flanked first. Which happened .... and I learned a great lesson

My second game was against Mad Dog Tom and his mechanized German force. Remembering what I had seen 1st round I did deploy the Shermans along with my Engineers and a Rifle platoon. I can't remember the exact moves but Tom was able to bring his Panzer IVs along with his transports to bare against my Engineers, Rifle platoon. I was able to score kills against the transports but the gunfire was too much to bare after time. Tom's nebs were delivering great pinning fire as well. Eventually I believe I fail a motivation check and saw the US leave the field.

Again, transports blazing with machine guns caused havoc against my infantry. The engineers did hold their own against the tide and took 3 transport teams with them. I had placed the Shermans on the other side of the board to flank the nebs and a tank killing platoon he had. Instead I was bailing out and bog checking at the same time I was "dancing" in and out of TD fire. Tom shared some good info and tips (just as Steve had) and we got another game since the time allowed it. Thanks Tom !

The last game was against Otto and his Soviets running tank killers and rocket trucks. It was a long slug fest. The Soviets TD had an AT of like 14 or 15 which popped open my Shermans and M-10s. Both platoons lef the field after failed motivation tests. Once my armor components were gone my infantry had no hopes but to contest objectives and dig in.I had a chance to take out his rocket teams early in the game but swung my armor elements to support the infantry. BIG MISTAKE. Rockets and tank fire whittled infantry down to motivation checks which were failed. I literally lost the game with one failed company morale check. Otto was a great opponent ... good game.

I should have taken out those rockets. But I swung the armor elements to support the infantry which was moving to protect an objective that was not covered. The mission had 3 objectives placed and I had deployed around a middle objective which then was removed. So I had to act fast moving to protect. It was the first time I played against Russians with that killing power. The last time I faced Russians they were a lend lease Sherman company ... hats off to Otto he stayed in there and it came down to the wire.

It was a great time. I learned from every game I played and got in 4 solid games in one day. How could that be bad ?!?! lol ...

Keep the paint flowing and the dice rolling .....

Joe ... aka Mezz

Williamsburg Muster 2011

2011-02-06T07:20:00.001-08:00

Here is some pics from the Williamsburg Muster 2011 that fellow WWPDers Steve, Luke, Dirty Jon and I was at Saturday. I will get you an aar tomorrow but for now enjoy the pictures.

Be safe, keep the paint flowing and the dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

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Legends of the Old West Pictures

2011-02-04T13:52:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

Here are the photos of the Legends of the Old West game that Steve and I played this past Wednesday. My wandering Outlaws were able to take out the Sherriff and his gang, minus the one vigilante that ran due to being the only one left. It was a nice system, nothing too hard and a great change of pace for a gaming night.

Enjoy the pics !

The Outlaws enter the town. Lawmen walk into the street.

The Outlaws came to fight !

The Lawmen draw first !!!

The first Outlaw gets in front of a shotgun blast !

Another Outlaw goes down in a hail of fire ...

Outlaws continue forward !

The Lawmen lose one deputy in return fire ...

Deputies and Vigilantes dropping like flies ...

The outlaws are moving to get behind the sherrif, one goes down with a gut shot !

Another bandit tries to get the drop and gets gunned down.

The Sherriff goes down in the next picture ... and the Outlaws win the street. What will happen now ?!?

Be safe, Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ....

Joe ... aka Mezz

WWPD: News from the Front - Episode 12

2011-02-04T11:23:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

Thursday evening I was able to hit the studio for Episode 12 with Steve, Luke and Brian. You can catch the episode specifics at the following links ...

You can also get the podcast from iTunes. Let us know if there is anything you wish for us to cover or review ! You can reach me at joe@whatwouldpattondo.net.

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Be safe, Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling ....

Joe ... aka Mezz

Legends of the Old West

2011-02-03T18:52:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

Steve and I were able to get a quick game of LOTOW Wednesday evening. He has an awesome post at his blog with pictures. Venture over and tie up the horse, sit in the saloon and see the action.

WWPD

I have some pictures as well and will be getting them up tomorrow evening.

Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling !

Joe ... aka Mezz

US 81mm Mortar Platoon - FOW

2011-02-01T09:09:00.000-08:00

Greetings Troops,

Today's posting is of my 81mm US Mortars. It consist of three squads (2 mortars a piece) and the platoon leader. These were completed during the winter and were not able to be matte'd yet. Once matte'd in warmer weather I will place the grass and bushes.

Nothing too fancy but I hope you enjoy.

Keep the Paint flowing and Dice rolling .....

Joe ... aka Mezz

US Engineers Platoon - FOW

2011-01-28T14:21:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

The following pictures are of the US Engineers Platoon I completed last year. The teams without grass are not matte'd due to the winter time and it being cold. Once spring comes I will coat them and add the grass.

The unit includes the platoon leader, 2 squads of engineers (2 stands per squad), 1 squad of HMGs (2 stands). The unit also has the reserve engineer stands you can swap out the HMG for (2 stands) and 3 bazookas.

This platoon is a support option for both my MW and LW US armies. I will be including a 2 1/2 truck for supplies as well ...

Enjoy, and Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe ... aka Mezz

Mezz's Savage New World (3)

2011-01-27T17:23:00.000-08:00

5 miles outside of our town is the local mining district. Union ran by some big wigs back east, it functions practically by itself. It consists of the mine, living quarters for the single miners, houses for the miners with families, saloon, hardware store and general store. Anything the minng town of Orville doesn't have they make the 2 mile trip to larger Dunn's Nook.

Simon needed a drink of water. He awoke from his sleep in a drenching sweat but shivering as if he was in a snowstorm. He kicked off his blanket and walked to the door leading outside. The moon was out in full glory so no worries about finding the water pump. A couple of pumps later, Simon had 3 mugs of water down with no end to his thirst. He kneeled on one knee as he attempted to quench the undying thirst.

Suddenly without warning he doubled over to his knees. It felt as if his stomach would explode. He began to curse the new camp cook for what he ate. Its got to be bad food, thought Simon. He got up and began to look for his boss. The night shift was beginning soon and Simon felt as if he would be useless in the mines.

Matter of fact, Simon felt awkward ever since the Flash occurred. He couldn't place his finger on it but something was not right. He wasn't the only one. Others in his crew have had numerous aliments and complaints of thirst and chills. The camp doctor has been busy with sick call and was just as confused.

The supervisor's office was adjacent to the mine shaft entrance. Simon knocked and heard Kyle acknowledge. "Crud Simon, you look like death warmed over." Kyle said as he pushed away from his desk.

"I am a no go tonight boss. I feel like crap." Simon said with a shrug.

"Well I can see that. Your the 4th guy to bang in tonight. We are going down shaft with only 8 guys." Kyle said feeling guilty in his attempt to paint a picture to Simon.

Simon nodded. The bosses back East have been riding the supervisors hard lately. Kyle handed him a mug of coffee. "Freshly made, it will help some." Simon grabbed the mug and noticed something odd with his hand. His hand appeared different, his fingers slightly longer, nails beginning to point sharply. Quickly he moved his hand away from Kyle and looked at his other hand. Unfortunately the same held true.

"You ok Simon ?" Kyle said. "You growing a beard ? Or just not up to shaving this week ?"

"I shaved this morning Kyle." Simon said as suddenly a loud scream came from the mine. The two ran from the office and ran towards the mine shaft. A green glow was streaming from the mine as 2nd shift miners were running for their lives.

Kyle grabbed the nearest miner. "What the heck is going on ?!?"

"Mine explosion ! Green light as far as you can see!" The miner shoved away and took flight. Kyle turned in horror and saw Simon standing there with his mouth open in shock.

"Simon, did you see that man ?" Kyle stuttered.

Simon nodded. "That was not a man! That man had a tail like a rat !"

** Stay tuned for more **

Joe ... aka Mezz

US Sherman Platoon - FOW

2011-01-27T12:49:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

This is my US Sherman platoon that I finished in 2010. The platoon leader is the tank with him out of the turret along with no 50 cal. All other tanks have the 50 cal, but the commander sitting out of the hatch would have made the turret too clustered in my opinion if I included his 50 cal.

The platoon is made up of the platoon leader and 4 tanks. This platoon has served me in support for my US Glider Infantry, US 3rd ID and soon the 1st ID "Big Red 1".

Thanks to the awesome generosity from the guys over at The View From the Turret, I have 5 more Shermans and 5 76mm Shermans to add to the ranks to make an armor company as well.

Enjoy the pictures. Also let it be known if you need to contact me for any WWPD:News from the Front related questions you can address them to joe@whatwouldpattondo.net.

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling !

Joe ... aka Mezz

WWPD: News from the Front - Episode 11

2011-01-24T05:57:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

Episode 11 has been recorded and is up for your listening pleasure.

You can get the links and more information by the provided links ...

You can also obtain the episode on iTunes. We hope you enjoy the cast as much as we enjoy recording it.

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ....

Joe ... aka Mezz

Ambush in the Noob Zone ...

2011-01-22T07:46:00.001-08:00

Greetings troops,

This week I will be addressing Ambush rules for FOW. It is an important aspect that has won and lost games for me, whether I am " dropping " the ambush hammer or the one getting hammered.

So with that in mind, sound off with your ambush questions and I will incorporate them into the WWPD News from the Front podcast.

Joe ... aka Mezz

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Sound off ... Full Thrust VS Firestorm Armada

2011-01-20T16:55:00.000-08:00

Greeting troops,

I have had a recent twitch for some space combat. I know that Firestorm Armada is popular right now and the models look fabulous. I have also some basic knowledge of Full Thrust. So my question is .... anyone have a preference or experience to lean this general one side or the other ?

A brief yet small request to my blogging family.

Joe ... aka Mezz

Zombies !!!

2011-01-18T10:50:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

Recently, during the holiday season I was able to venture off and grab a new board game called Zombies !!

The game is made by Twilight Creations. Currently there is 9 expansions to this game along with numerous other great games. You can see for your self all the game goodies at Twilight Creations

The game (in its 2nd edition) comes with the following:

Humans with shotguns (of course)
Event cards
Game tiles (city tiles with streets and buildings)
Zombies (male and female)
Bullet tokens and life tokens
2 - 6 sided dice

I was able to get a game in with my friend Ian the other day. Although I didn't get any game shots we had a great time. The mechanics were easy to grasp after a couple of rounds and our first game went smooth. We were only playing with 2 players but the game is able to have up to six. To make the game interesting, when it came time to move zombies I rolled and moved them on Ian's turn and vice versa.

In true gaming fashion, I lost. Ian was able to make it to the helipad and lift off.

Two thumbs up. I recommend it to all. It is great for the younger gamers in the family due to the simple game mechanics.

Keep an eye out ... I have some FOW pics coming this week of some bail out markers. We are also getting WWPD: Episode 11 in production for the end of the week. A nice gaming week !

Keep the Dice rolling and the Paint flowing ....

Joe .... aka Mezz

WWPD: News from the Front - Episode 10

2011-01-17T16:28:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

Just a friendly reminder that WWPD:NFTF Episode 10 is in full effect for listening pleasure.

You can click the link for the file or hit up iTunes and search WWPD.

WWPD: News from the Front

Joe ... aka Mezz

Mezz's Savage New World (2)

2011-01-12T10:30:00.000-08:00

In the last posting for Mezz's Savage New World I posted the character sheet For William McCoy. This posting will be the character sheet for Jeff Savage, US Marshall.

McCoy and Savage walked across the street to the sheriff's office. The sheriff's office had a front desk near the door, the sheriff's main office, a spare room and the lockup. Simple and yet to the point.

"You can have the spare room. There is a bunk and a closet for your things. Here's a set of keys for the office, lock up and gun cabinet." McCoy tossed the keys towards Savage.

"Thanks, anyone else have access or just me?" Savage sat down and put his feet up on the desk.

"Nope. I haven't had a chance to swear in any deputies ... yet. Last sheriff was ran out of town by the local gang running rampant in this region." McCoy glanced out the window. "Amazed they haven't peeped their ugly heads out today."

"The day is young, my good sheriff." Savage smiled and walked over to the gun cabinet. The standard single and double barreled shotguns along with some Winchester Rifles were inside.

Suddenly the familiar sound of pistol fire was in the air. Savage grabbed his pistols and walked to the door. "Shall we go and meet our misunderstood citizens my good Sheriff ?"

"I spoke too soon, I have the worst luck." McCoy shook his head and walked out to greet the commotion.

Character Sheet

Name: Jeff Savage (Novice Experience)

Occupation: US Marshall

Race: Human
Pace: 6"
Traits:

Agility (d8)
Smarts (d6)
Spirit (d6)
Strength (d8)
Vigor (d6)

Charisma (0)
Parry (2+ half of Fighting Skill) (6)
Toughness (2+ half of Vigor) (5)

Skills:

Fighting (Agility) d8
Guts (Spirit) d4
Investigation (Smarts) d6
Notice (Smarts) d4
Riding (Agility) d6
Shooting (Agility) d8
Tracking (Smarts) d6

Major Hindrance:

Curious - Wants to know everything

Minor Hindrance:

Doubting Thomas - Character doesn't believe in the Supernatural
Phobia - Fear of Water, -2 for trait tests involving water

Edges:

Connections (Novice) - Can call upon powerful friends or favors
Quick Draw (Novice, Agility d8) - draws weapons as a free action

Gear:

Clothing, including Cowboy hat and boots - n/a
Colt Pistols (x2) - 400 coins
Boot Knife - 25 coins
Coins in Pocket - 75 coins

** Weapon stats at a later date **

I am so looking forward to testing these characters with this new system. Stay tuned !

Joe ... aka Mezz

Mezz's Savage World

2011-01-07T11:29:00.000-08:00

Recently I was able to purchase Savage Worlds - Explorer's Edition with some holiday money. I have been following a fellow blogger's blog Savage Timmy's Playhouse that has been using this ruleset and was impressed with the game mechanics. So without further delay ... introducing one of my 2011 goals. Mezz's Savage New World.

The saloon was slow considering it was a weekend. McCoy glanced around the bar and noticed nothing that caught his eye. Out of town visitors seemed to be slowing down since the Flash. Matter of fact, everything seemed to be slowing down since the Flash.

McCoy looked left and saw a new face in town. He appeared to be a government type. Plain and serious. Loner with no one else sitting with him. McCoy ordered another shot and made his approach down the bar.

"New to town ?" McCoy said glancing for any signs of movement or weapons.

"Just got here." The stranger muttered. "Been riding a stagecoach for a week. Figured this saloon was a nice stop as any." He took another shot and another ordered. "Are you the welcoming committee ?"

McCoy smiled and shifted his weight to his gun hip. "Yes, you can say that. I am sherriff for these parts. I welcome every new face."

The stranger looked up and smiled. "Good to know. Name's Jeff. Jeff Savage. US Marshall at your service." The marshall opened his jacket and branished his badge. McCoy felt a wash of ease and sat next to Savage. Waving to the bartender, McCoy signalled for 2 more shots.

"I know I was riding a stagecoach for a week. And I know things seem to get hazy but I swear I am losing it. Yesterday, a flash occured like the sun hitting a mirror but so bright I had to shield my eyes. Know anything of it ?"

McCoy shrugged. "I saw it too. Matter of fact the whole town saw it and talking about it. Other than that it is just gossip about town, nothing more or less."

Standing up, McCoy motioned to Savage to grab the scotch. "We can head over to the sherriff's office and get ya settled in. I will fill you in on the town gossip and clicks."

Character Sheet

Name: William McCoy (Novice Experience)

Occupation: Town Sherriff

Race: Human

Pace: 6"

Traits:

Agility (d8)
Smarts (d6)
Spirit (d6)
Strength (d8)
Vigor (d6)

Skills:

Shooting (Agility) d8
Riding (Agility) d8
Streetwise (Smarts) d6
Tracking (Smarts) d6
Swimming (Agility) d8
Survival (Smarts) d6

Major Hinderance :

Bad Luck (-1 benny each session)

Minor Hinderances:

Loyal (never betrays his friends)
All Thumbs (-2 on Repairs, Roll of 1 causes malfunction)

Edges:

Quick Draw (Novice, Agility d8) may draw weapon as free action
Alertness (Novice) +2 Notice

Gear (Load Limt 40 pounds - Stregth d8 X 5 = 40)

Basic Clothing including Cowboy hat, boots etc
Boot Knife - 25 coins
Colt Pistol - 200 coins
Double Barrel Shotgun - 150 coins
Coins in pocket - 125

** Weapon stats to be listed at a later date. **

More to come, stay tuned .... Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice Rolling ...

Joe aka Mezz

Star Wars Adventure

2011-01-03T14:51:00.000-08:00

Hello Troops,

With the New Year comes getting the cobwebs out and working on past projects. Please visit my Star Wars RPG Blog and follow along. I recently made a new post and it will follow along past RPG gaming with Steve, Sean and Lydia !

Planet's Doom - Star Wars RPG

Thanks and Enjoy ....

Joe ... aka Mezz

Greetings 2011

2011-01-03T06:29:00.000-08:00

Hello Troops,

I thought I would just post a brief hello for the New Year. Family plans have the painting on a halt for the next week or so but before that I was able to get the remaining 81mm US mortars done as well as the remaining US Sherman tank. I need to purchase a 2 1/2 ton truck for my pioneers and finish the hedge cutters for my tanks for a tournament at the Williamsburg Muster in Feburary.

Some plans for the New Year include ...

Tournament in Feburary - Williamsburg Muster
Tournament in March - Cold Wars, PA
Early War Flames of War Army Building - Germans
CY6 action and squadron building
Scenery and terrain building for gaming at home or away

I am sure that list will be changing as the year develops but you can get the idea. So what are the plans of the troops for the New Year ? Feel free to let me know. I will be sharing that info with the gang at WWPD for an upcoming podcast.

Be safe and have a Happy New Year 2011 .... Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice Rolling !

Joe ... aka Mezz

2010 the Review

2010-12-28T08:30:00.000-08:00

Hello Troops,

I hope your holidays have had great ! I know the family and I had a great holiday and I am looking forward to the many projects, tournaments and games to review and post for you the fine readers.

So without any further delay, 2010 in review ...

Site Visitors

I have been very fortunate as a blog author to have many readers and visitors for 2010. I currently have 37 followers to the blog. Thanks so much ! I have had 1693 hits with 46 countries representing. Not too shabby I must admit.

Followers

To date of this writing I have 37 followers. Again I thank all of you, both followers and those whom stop by.

Games Played in 2010

I was able to get a decent number of games this year, this includes tournaments and home games. Flames of War lead the pack with 15 games and 2 tournaments. I ran 2 games of Star Wars RPG. CY6 was also played twice as well. All games were great and I hope to get in many more in the new year.

Tournaments for 2010

The two tournaments I was able to participate in where great. The first one was the Guns of August in Williamsburg VA. I place 10 out of 12 and got the Best Sportsmanship Award. The last tournament I participated in was the Icehouse Warriors Tournament in Claymont DE. I was able to place 10th out of 16. I played against some awesome fellows and had some great games. I learned tons and so look forward to the tournaments planned in 2011.

WWPD: News from the Front

I was invited to start a podcast with Steven and Sean in 2010. WWPD:NFTF has been a great success and an awesome project to be part of and contribute to. You can catch it on iTunes and it has a great fan support and listening audience. I was able to participate in Episodes 0, 1, 3, 5 and 6. I am so looking forward to the New Year with the podcast group. It's gonna be a blast !

2010 Miniature Tracking

I invested 3 days of man-hours in painting this year. Give or take this is pretty accurate. I was able to complete 26 miniatures. Since the majority of my painting this year was Flames of War miniatures this works out as 26 stands and or vehicles. My stands are anywhere between 3 to 5 miniatures per stand. So its not a shabby figure for me. It is definitely an improvement from 2009. I was able to finally finish my US Army (Glider Infantry), US M-10 Anti-tank Destroyer Section, US Engineer Platoon, US 81mm Mortar Platoon and US Sherman Tank Platoon.

Book Reviews

I reviewed 3 books this year. They were Death Trooper, Dies the Fire and Homeland. I recommend all 3 to the followers of the blog.

Postings

2010 saw 75 postings minus this one. 2009 only had 25, so I can say I successfully did better. The months of February, August and September lead the months with 8 postings. On average I had at least 5 to 7 postings a month which considering my active household, paramedic school and my fire station schedule of 24 hours a shift, not too shabby at all.

Well I hope you enjoyed the bean counting for 2010. I am looking forward to sharing more in 2011 in all aspects our hobby and gaming world. Please feel free to share my site with your friends and invite them along as followers. Please also check out WWPD: News from the Front. We enjoy hearing from you and giving programming that the listeners ask for. Hit up iTunes and listen away !!

Happy New Years ! Be safe and keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling !

Joe ... aka Mezz

3rd ID vs German Horde

2010-12-17T17:57:00.000-08:00

Today, Steve and I got together for a Late War 1750 point game. I brought my US infantry representing the 3rd Infantry Division. Steve had a unique way of choosing his forces. Steve has a list of 20 various forces for the German army, his pick of the list is based on a roll of a D20 dice roll. His roll produced a list of ... Tigers and Panzer IV's ! **Glup**

We rolled for the mission and produced ... Domination. Domination has vital points of the battlefield represented in poker chips. Various chips equal certain points. Seeing the battle at hand I figured it would go more towards who remained ON the field of battle before victory would be shown by points.

Steve's photos and AAR are excellent. To see his side of the battle check out the link: WWPD

1st Platoon (Rifles) deployed in the woods moving towards an objective. They were attempting to get to a hill and be able to dig in. But German Panzer IVs had another idea.

Sherman Platoon's deployment area with 81mm Mortars getting ready to dig in.

2nd Platoon (Assault) looking towards their objective point. This vital point (the hill) overlooked the village.

81mm Mortars dug in while the Shermans move towards the roadway.

2nd Platoon moving with no obstacles to contend with.

1st Platoon getting to the base of Hill 1A. Unfortunately German tanks occupy it.

The lead M-10 pops a Tiger with a side shot. Then all heck breaks loose !

Two M-10s go up in flames as combined fire of Panzer IVs and Tigers return fire.

The unlucky crews had attempted to fire but no luck and definitely no luck now.

The sherman platoon moved to make better of the one destroyed Tiger. The remaining 2 Tigers made quick work and revenge for losing one of their own. Thinking the wiser the remaining Shermans move.

Tigers move into the M-10s hind quarters. One of the burning tanks was the Lieutenant. Without a command presence, the other 2 remaining M-10s could do nothing but shoot.

Another Sherman explodes in fire causing Mortar crews to hug dirt in the foxholes ! Being the third Sherman destroyed, it forced a morale check. Fail. Shermans leave the field.

The lead M-10 errupts in flames as his sister tank killer gets bailed behind him.

The final M-10 is destroyed. He failed 2 bail in attempts before falling. This bridge should be known as "Widow Crossing" ...

Another look of "Widows Crossing"

Last photo taken as the field of battle turns to German hands.

It was a tough yet great learning experience. Steve played a heck of a game and being a gentleman, offered to re-roll his force. But I like a challenge and never played against Tigers before so I declined the re-roll offer. Tanks against infantry is always tough. But I feel playing against them makes me a better player for the games that I get running against infantry with armor support. I also been trying to figure out the best way to use my Shermans and M-10s so this was another great chance to learn.

Some of the things I learned today ...

Never face a Tiger in a shooting match, which resulted in 2 easy kills. A 3rd Sherman fell later and the platoon left the field after a failed morale check.

I had 81 mm mortars which killing wise was not an option but I failed to use the smoke by never getting observers in positions to assist (get more eyes in position next time).

The Assault platoon had a chance to move towards a weak recon platoon in the village (next time think about moving/assaulting with smoke cover).

Steve was great at reviewing the final battlefield setup with me and giving advice to maximize my forces. Every game at Steve's is great for that reason. I learn tons. I have always been the type to learn by making mistakes. In fact every mistake I have made in past games has helped me in future games.

Kudos to Steve ... great game and as always a pleasure to play against !

Till next time ... Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling !

Joe .... aka Mezz

Icehouse Tournament Part 2 Briefing ...

2010-12-13T10:13:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

This is Part 2 of the AAR debriefing of the Icehouse tournament. If you missed Part I, you can click on the link ... Icehouse AAR Part 1.

Game 3 - Opponent Blair

The group took a lunch break and got back to business. Game 3 was against Blair and his lend lease Russians. Blair was also in the new category but none the less eager to hit the ground running. The mission was No Retreat.

I was unsure how this game was going to go. Some factors were in my favor. I had my assault platoon "Gone to Ground" and "Dug In" near one objective while I had my Shermans deployed in ambush (unseen until deployed). My reserves including 1 rifle platoon and my mortars. Blair had ground to move to get to me but had that ambush to worry about.

Blair moved forward and stopped. He was taking shots with his machine guns with numerous tanks in the front while moving a large force of Shermans down my left flank towards a one lane bridge he would have to cross. Shots were aimed and Blair moved cautiously towards my forces dug in. My reserves all came in on with reserve rolls, moving the infantry towards the bridge to assist delaying the tank horde. The mortars took a position in the rear to assist. I was losing maybe one stand a turn in both the dug in front and the flank forces holding the bridge but nothing that would force morale checks. Time was a factor and it was do or die for Blair to push and get the objective. I popped the ambush with the Shermans in the woods near the bridge.

Tanks began to fall. I took out a tank of his and blocked the bridge. Time ran out and I was still holding both objectives. 6-1, my win. Great game Blair !

Hindsight .... Blair had a strong list. Unfortunately, he had to get dug in infantry out of the area of the objectives. I would have not changed anything. I have learned in previous games and from my mentor Steve to hold on to the ambush as long as I can. I was able to get my infantry on the board and move them into support of the left flank and choke point. Both objectives had woods and my infantry and tanks could and did use them for effective defense. Time was a big factor. Blair did a good job. I enjoyed the game.

Game 4 - Opponent Miles

My last game of the event was against Miles and his German Mechanized Pioneer troops. He had mechanized pioneers troops with halftrack transports, 3 Pumas, 3 Pak 40s and 1 KING TIGER ! The mission was Hasty assault and I won the roll to see which side of the board I wanted. Looking at his forces I chose the side with a hill. A very difficult terrain ravine was 8 inches in front of the hill.

I chose to start the mission with the assault platoon, since they would be "Dug in" and "Gone to Ground" to start. I had my Shermans, whom were the Immediate Ambush choice on the backside of the hill to limit shots by his Pumas and King Tiger.

The missions first two rounds went without much action as Miles moved his forces forward, taking shots at the infantry and not doing anything. During this time I moved the shermans to the right flank placing 2 near a building and 2 on the backside of the hill out of view as well.

Miles moved his pioneers to the ravine and deployed 3 (maybe 4) bridges over the ravine and began to cross his transports and pumas. The King Tiger sat back across the ravine. His Pak 40s came on during a reserve roll. I was able to score my reserve of rifles, and had them move to the back side of the hill and wait to assist or fill the gap.

Round 4 was when the heat started. Miles assaulted into my dug in troops with his transports and pumas. Assaults and Counter Assaults were traded ending in the destruction of the Pioneer platoon and their transports. The Pumas remained .... so I moved my Shermans over as not to expose to return fire from the Pak 40s and King Tiger. Shots were traded and eventually my assault platoon was destroyed. I was able to keep the Pumas honest due to the Shermans. I moved the reserve platoon up to hold the objective.

Miles was able to get the King Tiger across the very difficult terrain (dang it ;P) and began to move towards the trenches. Things were getting tight. But Time was on my side and the game ended. I was still holding the objectives. 4-3, my win. Awesome game Miles !

Hindsight ... I was very happy with my forces. I knew digging in and keeping out of sight was my best option. Time was the factor if I could hold till time was done. It was awesome to see Miles throw bridges and cross. And I can see why he was using the transports and getting 3 machine gun shots with 7 transports. I was surprised that he didn't get that King Tiger up on the hill sooner. I feel the game would have been uglier and quite possibly the chance I would have lost the hill. But it was a great game !

Well ... that is the down and dirty of the tournament. The guys from Icehouse gaming group were awesome. Great sports, good gaming and seemed like a great bunch to play FOW with. I would not blink an eye to compete again with these fine fellows. Steve placed 2nd just missing 1st by 1 point. I can't remember where Luke and Jon exactly placed but it was 4th and 6th I believe (possibly 4th and 5th). I wound up placing 10th out of 16. Not shabby.

It was a great time with great friends and so looking forward to doing it again.

Keep the paint flowing and the dice rolling ....

Joe ... aka Mezz

Icehouse Tournament ...

2010-12-12T11:23:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

This weekend Steve, Luke, Jon and I road tripped it to Between Books in Claymont, DE for a Flames of War Qualifier Tournament. It was hosted by Jesse and the Icehouse gaming group.

We started our roadtrip Friday evening and met Pete Ellis in Glen Bernie, MD. Awesome fellow, treated us to a great round of beer and talked shop about everything in the wargaming world; including FOW as well. Pete is a contributing editor to Steve's Blog What Would Patton Do ? . I hope we can get together once again and play some FOW ... it would be a great time. Good luck to Pete Monday regarding a tournament he is participating in.

We got in late to our hotel Friday night ... tired but in high spirits. Saturday morning we awoke about 9, taking advantage of sleeping in, and headed to the local IHOP to fuel up the tanks.

We arrived early to Between the Books and was able to walk around the store and see the inventory. It was a spread of sci-fi, fantasy, history, boardgames, RPGs and the such. Nice store.

In the back of the store we were able to fit 4 tables, divided in half to allow for all present to play. 16 generals arrived with glory in the mind and bags of of lead in hand. All armies were late war and made with a cap of 1000 points. The following brief AARs are not exactly to the tee since I am writing them from memory ...

Game 1 - Opponent Mike A.

Mike was running Germans and like myself a noob to the FOW scene with about 1 year in game. He was running HQ, German Stugs supported by a FJ platoon and Towed Nebelwerfers. I had the 3rd US ID with HQ, Rifle Platoon, Assault Platoon, 2 sections of 81mm Mortars and 4 Shermans. It was a free for all mission, meaning all units were on the board with deployment.

Not to bore you with all the details, Mike was able to pin my assault platoon all game (on my left flank), tore up my rifle platoon in the middle of the board attempting to use cover in buildings, popped 1 Sherman at long range and the other 3 engaging in front of the assault platoon. 3 of his Stugs moved on my right flank, staying out of assault range and finally taking out my mortars near the objective. Uncontested objective, his win. 6-1.

In hindsight, I should have moved my Shermans to the right flank to assist the gap he used to move the stugs. He did an excellent job staying out of the Rifle Platoons assault range. He wasn't going to attempt to rush infantry, especially an assault platoon with Tank Assault 3. Poor coverage of the right flank equaled failure and loss of the objective. Good job Mike !

Game 2 - Opponent John

John was my next for Game 2. Once again, John was a noob like myself. Actually this was his 4th game ! No pressure there .... lol. Encounter was the mission. John was running German stugs and Panzer IVs. I was defending a city with a river running in front and a road leading north towards John. I started the game with my assault platoon in the city and my 4 shermans; leaving my other Rifle platoon and the mortars in reserves.

As expected, John came across the river and trading shots with the infantry fighting from the buildings. I moved the Shermans up the left flank, 2 near the building the infantry were shooting from and the others placed shooting at the 5 Stugs on my city's NE flank. He was just about in assault range and I was able to bail 2 drooling with thoughts of a pending assault with reserves coming ... then John got his only reserve.
The Panzers took out 2 Shermans, bailed one and eventually forced them from the field. My infantry attempted a tank assault, took heavy defensive fire and was pinned, attack stalled. I got them back on their feet and into the buildings. John maneuvered his tanks down the flanks shooting at the infantry and whittling down infantry stands. Reserves NEVER came. I was forced into a morale check numerous times and eventually failed. My company left the field, John was last one standing. 6-1 John. Great game.

Hindsight, nothing could have changed really. John did place his tanks within assault range but being Round 1 I didn't pull the trigger. I brought the tanks up hoping to clean some out and then pounce on the next turn hoping he still would not realize he was in assault range. His reserves arriving quickly, eventually killed and forced the Shermans out of the field of battle. The lone infantry unit was at a major disadvantage and not able to forcibly take on 8 to 10 tanks alone. My Reserves must have taken a wrong turn at the fork in the road and NEVER made it on the board with 6 dice roll attempts. I believe the game went longer then it needed. John could have moved out of infantry range and sat on the objective with no able response from me (especially with infantry reserves possible but that never came). But it was a fun game and John & I laughed at my horrible situation. Good game John :)

Lunch Break Thoughts

The first two missions were rough for me. Free for all and Encounter are missions I have played in the past and always seem to give me a tad of trouble when running infantry lists. I learned from the games and that is an important aspect of these games. Everyone makes mistakes but learning from them is very important in this gaming system. I can go back when thinking about these games and KNOW where the critical mistake or misjudgment was.

My next posting will cover Games 3 and 4 ... I want to split the postings so its not all in one long post.

Till the next posting .... Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling .....

Joe ... aka Mezz

Posting via Phone

2010-12-07T06:03:00.001-08:00

Hey troops,

I thought I would try this app for my phone and see how it does. The photos are of 1st and 2nd squads of my US 81mm mortars. The other picture is the platoon lt.

Enjoy.

Joe

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Additional Recon Photographs

2010-12-02T20:32:00.000-08:00

Greetings Troops,

The following photos have been cleared by the Censorship Office to be published. All photos are of US forces engaging German forces somewhere in Europe. The units and names of the soldiers have been omitted to keep them safe.

I can finally say that I had some figures finally on the board. All American Infantry was mine minus the American Tanks and Mortars (not pictured). Germans and previously mentioned was Steve's. Great game ! I had a blast and was happy to get a great game in.

Enjoy the pictures. Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling !

Mezz

Recon photos ...

2010-11-30T11:02:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

I thought I would just get brief update here ... Just a couple of photos taken with my camera on my phone as a test run. Since I have it with me while gaming, I thought I would kill to birds with one stone and not lug the digital camera everywhere.

I am getting some gaming in tonight at Steve's house. We are running some test lists for a tournament this month in Delaware. Sorry I won't give the details of the lists till after the tournament. I will say it is a 1000 point Late war tournament and I will be running Americans. We may also fit a CY6 game in as well.

I will be taking pictures and posting them from tonight but no notes as to what is going on .... not yet but I will promise I will.

WWPD: News from the Front Episode 7 will be completed this weekend as well, stayed tuned !

Enjoy the pictures ! ...

Keep the Paint flowing and the Dice rolling ...

Joe aka Mezz

WWPD: News from the Front - Episode 6

2010-11-22T04:47:00.000-08:00

Hello Troops,

Steve and myself, along with guest seat Luke were able to get Podcast 6 recorded this evening. Here is the link for RSS or you can subscribe via iTunes. WWPD: News from the Front

Topics for the podcast include ...

Introductions
Reviews of Stalin's Europe
Review of the new D-Day books
Interview with Shawn aka The Terrain Guy fame
Review of terrain and its role & place on the FOW battlefield
Blog of the Cast
Joe's Mailcall
Misc topics on the fly ...

Remember for any topics you would like to see or hear, hit up the WWPD email address at WWPDPodCast@gmail.com. We read all mail and forum comments and will address them in the next episode's Mailcall.

Till then ... Keep the Paint flowing and the dice rolling ..

Joe aka Mezz

Battlefoam FOW case ...

2010-11-21T11:30:00.000-08:00

Hello Troops,

Battlefoam Photo - Used without Permission

I recently have acquired a new transport for the troops. No, it is not an armored vehicle but a new carrying case.

Battlefoam is the maker of the Flames of war carrier case. You can see their wonderful products at Battlefoam Website

The case I have is excellent. It has 3 exterior pockets for books, dice tins, templets and any other items you can think of to place in them. The case has a zipper that allows you to open and load trays from the top or open it further to easy access (it opens like a flap).

The case comes with 6 trays for your troops. It holds 49 HQ troops, 54 Medium troop stands and 47 vehicles and/or artillery stands. Impressive ! The are pre-cut trays so no need to worry about cutting them yourself. The trays fit well within the carrying case with no worries since the case is well made and study !

It also has Velcro spots for Unit patches (see Flames of War for patch types) as well as a spot for your name to have a patch (I knew saving some from my Army days would pay off). There is also a shoulder strap to help carry all that lead loaded into your sleek case.

Please check their site out. You would be amazed at all the products they have. I know that if I need another case or trays in the future that I will be visiting their site.

Keep the paint flowing and the dice rolling ...

Joe aka Mezz

CY6 ... Greenhorns

2010-11-16T19:23:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

Recently before the Episode 5 podcast, Steve and I were able to start a CY6 game. If you have never played or seen these rules you can check them out at the following address ...

Check Your Six ...

They cover air warfare in the Pacific and Europe for WWII along with air combat in the jet age.

Steve and I began our mission with a simple setup. 2 American Dauntless Bombers are returning from a run when a Japanese air patrol of 3 Zeros are moving to intercept. A call goes out to the carrier fleet who in turn dispatches 2 F4 Wildcats to assist.

American Dauntless full throttle to their home carrier

American Wildcats moving to assist

Starting Positions of forces

Zeros moving in for intercept ...

Zeros approaching ...

Zeros fire into the American flight

The first Zero hits true with his LVGs

His wingman hits as well. Lt Smith (Red 1) rolls his plane over and ejects.

Lt. Hack (Yellow 1) screams towards his Wildcats hoping the Zeros tail him.

Zeros adjusting for the strafe run

Lt Hack splits the formation allowing American Wildcats to get a shot at the passing Zeros. Lt. Hoard (Blue 1)gets gun rage and spends all his ammo. The American Wildcats are down to one effective plane, Lt.Messerle (White 1)

American Wildcats swing to get behind the Zeros whom are concentrating on the lone Dauntless.

The Zeros score another hit on the lone Dauntless. Debris from the effective shooting spray towards one of the Zeros whom BARELY manages to dodge.

Lt.Hack (Yellow 1) suddenly realizes that his rudder received damage allowing movement only to the right (only effecting one turn) He manages to keep the plane in the air after receiving more enemy fire .... thus becoming HEROIC for the rest of the mission.

Lt.Hack's bomber receives more enemy fire. His gunner falls victim and is KIA.

Lt Hoard (Blue 1) is out of ammo and getting to American airspace. One Zero gets gun rage and speads all his ammo as well. Lt Hack's Dauntless is almost home free.

The American Dauntless holds up and reaches American airspace. The Zeros pull off to fight another day. Lt.Hack, Lt.Hoard and Lt.Messerle all receive +1 experience rating to skills. Lt. Smith whom was forced to bail over sea was not found by search parties, he has been entered as KIA.

2nd Attempt Basing a GO

2010-11-11T09:10:00.000-08:00

Greetings troops,

I recently posted that I was basing my engineers and had a SNAFU with the glue causing the dirt to bend up on the corners. I bought TACKY GLUE on a recommendation from Steve and all (knock on wood) seems to be going better. Here are some pictures ...

I have also primed the command stand of the engineers as well as the 3 bazooka stand options for the platoon. I have the jackets and pants done. It is going smooth. Good thing is I have been touching up the engineer platoon because during base stripping, figures were scratched and needed some touch up.
Here are some pictures ...

I am waiting for a tad warmer weather to matte them .... but for the most part the engineer platoon will be done this weekend and next up will be the mortar platoon !

Here is a bailed out Germans I scored on ebay. I got a blister but this one is a test run. I am using a 28mm GW stand to set them apart. Still have some detailing but thought you would like a glimpse.

Keep the Paint Flowing and the Dice Rolling ....

Joe aka Mezz

Post Apocalypse Setup ...

2010-11-01T10:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings Troops,

No new pictures of the engineers since I am on a holding pattern to get some tacky glue to help my basing problem. So I am turning my attention to the Post Apocalypse World I am thinking of setting up.

To start it would be in the near future of our world. Making it apply to something we can all envision is a thing I would like to create. People and places we can all understand and see happening draws more to the subject.

You have to think of things that would cause the modern world to collapse and change all ways of life. Viruses ? War ? A bizarre event no one can explain ? But at the same time this might be part of your adventure plot ... the characters don't know what the hell is going on. Our world today relies on major social networks to survive day to day communication; cell phones, internet, texting, twitter and facebook are leading the way we communicate. So imagine if you will what would happen if that just STOPPED.

How would the average person survive ? Urban folks compared to rural folks ? White collared folk vs blue collared folks ? High tech skills vs trade skills ? Everything that holds true to todays society might have no purpose in the new world. It is a story that opens many doors !

I look forward to building it ..... miniatures are endless and the scenery is as well. Well .... depending on my wallet ... lol

Till then ...

Keep the paint flowing and the dice rolling ....

Joe aka Mezz

Book Reviews and Basing setbacks

2010-10-31T07:27:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

I just finished Death Troopers by Joe Schreiber. The strange and bizarre thing is I just bought it 2 days ago. It is based approximately 1 to 2 years before Episode IV in the Star Wars universe. The Imperial Prison Barge, the Purge is enroute to an Imperial Penal Colony when they lose engines and are floating in space. They spot an Imperial Star Destroyer floating in space and attempt to hail for help. With no answer, they send a boarding party to investigate for spare parts. This is where the plot turns ugly. I highly recommend it !

On the FOW basing of the engineers I have a slight set back. The gravel basing on the HMGs was popping up and curling on the edges to the point I had to tear it off. In the process I scratched two figures and will have to repaint. The other bases seem to be ok ... although I am disappointed that glue settled and left major low spots.

Does anyone have any basing suggestions ? I can't seem to ever get it right ....

Keep the paint flowing and the dice rolling ....

Joe aka Mezz

Updates ...

2010-10-26T14:30:00.000-07:00

Hello Troops,

I have been working on and involved in numerous projects these past few weeks and thought I would get them up on the blog.

The first project is regarding the podcast that Steve, Sean and I are involved in. WWPD: News from the Front is now currently up to 3 episodes and having a solid fan base following. We are officially on iTunes podcast lists if you search for us as well as the links provided by Steve. We have been showcased on Flames of War front page of their website TWO weeks in a row. We cover 90% FOW as well as movie reviews, book reviews, blog of the cast and other misc topics in the podcast. If you have any questions, movies or books to suggest, etc please feel free to contact me at jmezz382@gmail.com.

Steve recently added me to the command staff at WWPD. Steve has been a true mentor and friend; truly an honor. Look to his blog for awesome content; as always a great treat to read and browse.

On the mini front I am moving decent. My section of M10s is completed as far as painting goes. I am currently flocking the jeeps and waiting for the weather to allow matte to be placed.

Here is the shot ..... mins the one other M10 in the display cabinet.

My engineer platoon is moving good as well. 1st and 2nd squads are finished in the painting department and are currently being based. I need to finish up the platoon leader and the 3 stands of bazookas, I got some bases from Steve (THANKS BRO) so I need to start the process of priming them etc.

Here are some pics ...

These guys are reserve stands that can replace the HMGs if not used .... need bases for them :(

I received my Mortar platoon and they will be up next after the engineers. Steve, being the awesome friend gave me some mortars mounted in half tracks ... so now I will be looking towards completing an armor company as well; one more army of 2011.

Well ... as always Keep the paint flowing and the Dice rolling ....

Joe aka Mezz

Post Apocalypse Anyone ?

2010-10-20T09:15:00.000-07:00

Recently, I have been looking at various 28 mm miniatures, monsters and the like. With that in mind my creative mind began to cycle ATP and thoughts of a new gaming adventure began.

I have always been a sci-fi fan, thanks in part to Star Wars, Battlestar Galactica, Terminator and the like. My friends and I always were playing the parts of rebel freedom fighters or people surviving in the wilderness against all odds.

The beauty of this is the unlimited gaming potential. Miniatures, terrain and etc are at our disposal. The thing I have been in search of is a new gaming system.

Mission 1 ... Finding a Rule system.

Thanks to my friend Mik and Savage Tim (Both whom have blogs I follow) I have been looking and researching a couple of rule systems with flexible rules and designs. FATE is a free online rule system based off FUDGE. I have downloaded the PDF and am currently researching as we speak. The 2nd rule system is Savage Worlds. I have the Test Drive rules and plan to look them over as well.

Does anyone have experience in these rule systems ? Does anyone have good or bad things to say ?

Once I figure out a rule system to use, we will discuss the development of the world which it will be used.

Hope all is well .... Keep the paint flowing and the dice rolling ...

Joe aka Mezz

Hear the rumble of tank treads ?

2010-10-13T15:23:00.001-07:00

Hello troopers,

Brief posting today to let you know that my first section of M10's are 95% done.

One TD has been matted and good to go ... I still need to matte the other TD. The two jeeps and two carbine teams are completed and being based at this time - then will be matted, flocked and be completed. I should have pictures up this week .....

Keep your paint flowing and the dice rolling .....

Joe

WWPD: News from the Front ... Episode I

2010-10-10T08:08:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

I would like to welcome some new troops to the roster ....

A big hello to Beccas, Chevalier de la Terre, Tecian, Dr.Willett's Workshop .....

As you have read previously, My friends and gaming cohorts Steve, Sean and I have started a podcast called WWPD: News from the Front. Episode 0 was the pilot and received a warm welcome by our readers both via our blogs and the gaming forums on Flames of War's website.

Episode I was completed yesterday and was a blast to record. We covered our blog of the podcast, Sean's British tanks discussion, a movie review and a plea for 28mm alien figures. I won't get into the meaty details but I will let you listen for yourself via Steve's Link ... WWPD:News from the Front - Episode I

I hope you enjoy the newest podcast. Please let me know if you have something you would like to hear about it. It can be anything ... FOW, rule sets, books, movies etc. We are open to any suggestions.

So ... on the mini front, I am about 85% done with my section of M10 tank destroyers. I should have pictures up soon. My engineers are a close second with paints being applied as we speak.

Till then ... keep the Paint flowing and the dice rolling .....

Joe

News from the front ! .... WWPD style

2010-10-08T05:57:00.000-07:00

Greetings troops,

Recently I got together with Steve and Sean and recorded our first group podcast. We titled it WWPD: News from the Front. Episode 0 went off with no problem and has been posted to Steve's website in numerous ways.

WWPD: News from the Front

We had basic topics in Episode 0 ... as a test run. I follow it via iTunes .... which is an option on the link I provided.

We are currently getting topics ready for Episode 1. Please let me know what you would like to hear discussed or covered. We are also looking for a theme song ... any suggestions ?

I hope you enjoy the podcast !

Keep the dice rolling and the paint flowing !

Mezz

Awesome Feat ....

2010-09-30T14:29:00.000-07:00

Hello troops,

Recently my friend Steve; What Would Patton Do? has been accepted as an author for the website BOLS Wargame news. He has 3 articles that will be published, the first one is regarding French armor.

He has been my FOW mentor from the start. I have learned tons playing the FOW game with him and enjoy our matches greatly. He is currently developing his EW army .... which is the french. I will be venturing towards the German EW once I get some money .... lol.

Enjoy the link ..... BOLS Wargames News

Joe