#0805_01: The Push for Vire - Battles of Normandy

Vire: August 5th, 1944. (Scenario Size: Brigade+. Head to Head or United States Human vs AI) On August 1st, the town of Vire was almost undefended as the British approached as part of Operation Bluecoat. With the commitment of II.SS-Panzerkorps, the 11th Armored Division had to halt their advance and protect thein eastern flank. This delay allowed the Germans to move defensive troops into the town, forcing the Americans four days later to prepare an assault. The Combat Command A of the 2nd Armored Division and the 116th Infantry Regiment of the 29th Infantry Division were tasked with taking this major road hub. Vire had been heavily damaged by the Allied bombing raids on June 6th. These raids targeted transportation hubs throughout Normandy and were designed to slow the movement of German reserves forward to fight the landing. Now, the US forces are ordered to take the crossroads as part of the breakout from Normandy. The Germans are ordered to hold at all costs, to help protect the rear of the German counterattack (Operation Lüttich) forming to cut off the American spearheads. Both sides have significant heavy artillery support for the forces engaged in the town.