1914_1118_01s: The Lodz Envelopment - FWWC 02 East Prussia '14

Poland, 18th November 1914: As the front line approached Lodz, a dangerous gap between the Russian 1st and 2nd Armies had formed. In that gap stood just a few cavalry and independent divisions in screening positions, vulnerable to any sort of deliberate offensive. Von Mackensen, determined to capture Lodz, called for a bold attack into the gap in order to drive a wedge between both Russian armies and envelop Lodz from the east, which would allow the Russian line to be rolled up towards the southwest. However, Rennenkampf, an old foe from East Prussia, quickly dispatched reinforcements from the north to ironically come to the timely aid of the 2nd Army and this quick and decisive reaction would threaten the over exposed Germans. A desperate battle ensued as the Germans savagely pushed through Russian positions, swinging around to the rear of Lodz, while the Russians attempted to hold the city at all costs and cut off the German envelopment force. [Size: medium] *See the notes document for information on scenario design decisions and historical notes.