Monday, August 28, 2023

Rearguard

The French commander was under orders to hold this little hamlet and the important bridge, the only place where guns and supply wagons could pass. However, he was also under orders to send half of his force on a forced march to Louisburg. It was a tough enough assignment but if the British found the ford, it would be near impossible. Well, none the less, it would have to be done.   He would send 2 of the detachments of French infantry, followed by his only gun.  The troupes de la marine, the native Acadiens and the Mq'ma warriors would have to be up to holding the village.


A futile long range artillery duel begins the fight. 


On the British left, an overwhelming force of British regulars runs into an impenetrable wall of Colonial troops.


Meanwhile, back at the Bridge, after 4 attempts, and some bitter point blank fighting, the Grenadiers had taken the bridge and seized one quarter of the town but the men were exhausted and were sent running by a French counterattack. The 28th Foot stepped forward to renew the attack.


The fighting only grew in intensity as the troops from the ford rushed to join the main battle.


The British commander decided on a desperate gamble and threw every man into the assault. As battalion after battalion was forced to retreat, the Commander suddenly remembered that he was also under orders, and was supposed to send two battalions to serve under Brigadier Wolfe.
Well,.... fat chance of that now. His only option was to fallback and seek the cover of the fleet's guns.

(Figures are homecast, mostly from Prince August moulds, but the Acadian militia are my originals. Rules were the the current The Square Brigadier.)

4 comments:

  1. Great report Ross! The action around the bridge and in the town looks very tough for both sides.

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  2. Wonderful armies and terrain and very enjoyable battle report, thanks for sharing it Ross. Is this scenario 9 Double delaying action from OHW book?

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  3. Cracking stuff Ross…

    All the best. Aly

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