Mission 1 – Allies -6th June 1944 – Sword beach to Pegasus Bridge.

Mission Briefing: Operation Iron Fist

Classified: Top Secret Date: June 6, 1944 Location: Allied Command Headquarters, Sword Beach

Operation Iron Fist is a critical offensive maneuver aimed at relieving Major Howard and his glider forces at Pegasus Bridge. The situation is dire, as intelligence reports indicate that Panzers from Caen are advancing rapidly towards the bridge. Major Howard’s garrison is at risk of being overrun without immediate reinforcements. Your tank column, codenamed Thunderbolt, has been assigned the vital task of breaking through enemy lines and reaching Pegasus Bridge to provide the necessary support.

Situation: a. Enemy Forces:
- Panzer units from Caen are advancing towards Pegasus Bridge.
- The enemy is well-entrenched and possesses heavy artillery support.
- Intelligence reports suggest the presence of anti-tank emplacements along the potential route of advancement.
- b. Friendly Forces:
  - Major Howard’s garrison at Pegasus Bridge is severely outnumbered and requires immediate reinforcement.
  - Allied air support is available upon request, but limited due to ongoing operations in other sectors.
  - Naval artillery support will be on standby, subject to available resources and clearances.
Mission Objectives: a. Primary Objective:
- Reach and reinforce Major Howard’s garrison at Pegasus Bridge.
  - Provide armored support to hold the bridge against enemy advances.
- b. Secondary Objectives:
  - Eliminate or neutralize any identified enemy anti-tank emplacements to secure the route.
  - Establish a defensive perimeter around the bridge and coordinate with Major Howard to repel any counterattacks.
  - Maintain communication lines with command headquarters and provide real-time updates on the progress of the operation.
- Execution:
- a. The tank column, Thunderbolt, will depart from Sword Beach at 0600 hours.
- b. The assigned route will be the coastal road leading North East then South towards Pegasus Bridge.
- c. The column will move in a staggered formation, with infantry support on foot and mechanized units providing cover.
- d. Maintain constant vigilance and engage any enemy forces encountered en route.
- e. If encountering significant resistance, adapt and use maneuver warfare principles to flank and neutralize enemy positions.
- f. Use available communication equipment to relay enemy positions, casualties, and other critical information to command headquarters.
Support:
- a. Artillery:
  - Limited naval artillery support will be available upon request.
  - Coordinate with command headquarters for specific fire missions.
- b. Air Support:
  - Limited air support is available upon request, subject to availability.
  - Coordinate with command headquarters for close air support missions.
- c. Logistics:
  - Supply depots will be established at designated locations along the route for refueling and resupply.
  - Coordinate with support units to ensure uninterrupted logistical support.
Command and Signal:
- a. Chain of Command:
  - Your commanding officer will be Lieutenant Colonel [Name].
  - Maintain strict discipline and adhere to the chain of command at all times.
- b. Signal:
  - Radios will be the primary means of communication.
  - Use encrypted frequencies for secure transmissions.
  - Maintain radio silence when necessary to avoid enemy detection.
- c. Recognition:
  - Allied forces will be marked with appropriate identification symbols.
  - Familiarize yourself with friendly unit markings to avoid friendly fire incidents.
  - Challenge and authenticate unknown personnel before granting access.

The success of Operation Iron Fist rests on your shoulders, Thunderbolt. Your tank column is the lifeline for Major Howard’s garrison at Pegasus Bridge. The fate of the operation and the lives of many depend on your courage, skill, and determination. Trust in your training, rely on your comrades, and remember the stakes of this mission. May victory be with you.

Good luck and Godspeed!

Signed, General [Name] Allied Command Headquarters