Help

[Walkure]

Before I throw my Computer out the window or smash it, could somebody please give me some insight on the following. 
In a current game, I have two M36, I choose veteran and gave them +1 leadership for some intestinal fortitude. they were assigned overwatch duties, and all they do is watch or pop smoke! Please help because I'm reaching for a hammer to beat this thing to pieces !

[A Canadian Cat]

Spotting in CM is attempting to simulate the real world. Before I get a bunch of people complaining "its just broken" sure there are some situations where the engine has some limitations but honestly the spotting is one of the coolest features of the game and it is, overall, really well done. No individual gets to see everything they could automatically. That is how it should be.

Having said that without more details it is hard to be more about your specific situation but here are a few things to consider. M36s are glass hammers. Yes, they have a nasty gun by they also have paper thin armour. So, if they spot a threat that looks like it is already facing them they will pop smoke and get out of dodge. They also might sit there and watch but not see everything. That's the game.

You as their commander need to give them the best possible opportunity you can. So, make sure they are in a hull down position if at all possible or key-holed or both. That way they will be less likely to be spotted. Also try to get them intel on the enemy. Have infantry near by who can spot and have them close enough to communicate with the commanders so they can get the intel. If your M36 has a "?" icon for an enemy tank they will be more likely to spot it first and engage successfully.