It’s dawn on 15th December 1899 and Colonel Long has just ordered
the 14th and 66th Field Artillery Batteries to unlimber 500 yds from the banks of
the Tugela River. Just 300 yds to their left the buildings of Colenso are
becoming visible through the early morning haze.
The Boers are reported to be on the far bank of the river and have been spotted in the town as well. Some of Long’s subordinates are concerned that their position may be a bit exposed.
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| "Colonel Long, I think we may be just a bit too close to the Boer positions?" "Nonsense Captain, the Boers have almost certainly withdrawn!" |
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| "But Sir, we've had reports that they hold the far river bank in strength." "If so, the best place for the guns is up front just like we had 'em at Omdurman!" |
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| "Blimey Sarge, if we was any closer to the Boers they could brew us a cuppa tea!" "Hold fast there laddie, Colonel says we was this close at Omdurman." "Yeah Sarge, but at Omdurman they was armed with spears!" |
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| "Order the men to hold their fire, the Tommies are walking right into our trap!" |
The third battle of Black Week is about to begin.
‘Almost’ certain, such a dangerous word, almost!
ReplyDeleteWhat idiot have you put in charge of my beloved guns?
The more I read about the Boer War I see that the individual British commanders were not actually incompetent and generally, like Long, had been highly successful in colonial wars. The problem was that they just couldn't adapt to an enemy with modern weapons!
DeleteOh dear this isn't going to go well !
ReplyDeleteIt does seem to be a common theme of these early battles!
DeleteExcellent miniatures and terrain Ian- well done! Looking forward to further reports from the scene. Regards. KEV.
ReplyDeleteShould be good Kev, these games are usually fun!
DeleteAh, the ability to adapt and change, I have a hard time with that myself as I get older! I am currently reading "Private Tucker's Boer War Diary," and I've just gotten to the Battle of Colenso! Perfect timing Ian! It's a wonderful book and so interesting to see things from his point of view. Your artillery looks great, as I'm sure the Boers can attest, since they are so close! I look forward to the battle!
ReplyDeleteAh, Colenso - the big one!
ReplyDeleteI'm sure someone is going to get a bloody nose.