Drive Like Hell (V2.0) - The Matrix Games version of West Front

South of Bastogne (Best Played Human vs Human) In response to the German offensive in the Ardennes, General Patton's Third Army quickly began preparations for an attack against the south flank of the German penetration. Elements of the veteran 4th Armored Division were on the road north by as early as December 19, and the entire division was prepared to attack in strength at first light on December 22. CCB attacked on the left, and quickly reached the Sure River south of the village of Burnon. There they came across the first signs of stiff resistance, as they encountered elements of the German 5th FJ Division. By the end of the day, however, they had chased off the German defenders, and the engineers had erected a temporary bridge to replace the span that the Americans themselves had destroyed during their initial retreat. By nightfall, CCB was across the river in force, and was prepared to advance from their bridgehead at first light. But instructions came directly from Patton to continue the advance through the night, so CCB continued forward in the dark towards the village of Chaumont. They received a sharp counterattack against their leading elements during the early morning hours, and after beating off the German assault guns and paratroopers, reorganized on the heights south of Chaumont. They then prepared to resume their advance on the afternoon of the 23rd. Meanwhile, CCA had spent the 22nd advancing north along the axis of the Arlon-Bastogne highway. They were slowed by demolitions conducted by retreating American engineers, but late in the day, had moved into the south half of Martelange. As they moved to the site of the destroyed bridges in town, they drew fire from forward elements of the 5th FJ Division. CCA's armored infantry were able to advance across the river during the night, and succeeded in clearing the north side of town and the heights immediately above. During the morning and afternoon of the 23rd, CCA's supporting engineers put a new bridge in place, and by 1:30 PM, the vehicles of CCA had started across the span. A second span was soon put in place to accomodate two-way traffic. On the division's right flank, there were reports of German tanks and infantry in the area of Bigonville. CCR was dispatched to deal with that potential threat. Just three to four hours of daylight remained as both CCA and CCB resumed their respective attacks toward Bastogne. If the 101st Airborne Division was to be relieved by nightfall, the 4th Armored would indeed have to heed Patton's words, and "drive like hell"! DEDICATION: During the course of my research for this scenario, I developed personal correspondence with many members of the 4th Armored Division. There are too many to name here, but among them were (by rank at the time of the engagement) Major Albin Irzyk, CO 8th Tank Battalion (CCB), and Captain Jimmie Leach, CO of Company B, 37th Tank Battalion. The information provided by all of the first hand participants in the drive to Bastogne was invaluable, particularly in regard to the strength and composition of the 4th Armored Division's tank battalions on December 23. It was indeed my honor and privilege to meet with members of the 4th AD, and this scenario is dedicated to them.