Morning is breaking at the Douve River lock. The Germans are awakening as the Americans advance from the north. By 0630 the central objective hex is captured without resistance and the American reinforcements have arrived in the far north. The American paratroopers continue their advance and are poised to attack through the swamp

The Americans storm the bridge and the waiting Germans use opportunity fire.

SNAKE-EYES!

The first platoon is completely eliminated!

SNAKE-EYES!

The second platoon charging the embankment is also completely eliminated!

Needless to say, out of men, the Americans decided to abandon their advance on the eastern bridge, but they successfully closed in on the western and central villages.

Bogged down in assaults the Americans make little progress, as the Germans abandon the eastern bridge to aid their colleagues.

Half a platoon is lost on both sides of the battle. And the Americans are becoming overwhelmed in the middle town with the arrival of the German Bridge Defenders.

Then the German Reinforcements arrive!

Americans suffer further casualties in the swamp and their infantry lieutenant is captured (no more off-board artillery).

In the Western town both sides suffer a reduction, but the Germans are able to send in reinforcements!

Both sides suffer another reduction in numbers, and the Americans are very low on men.

Soon half an American platoon is routed and only a single half platoon remains in the town. They are quickly overrun and it is over!

GERMAN VICTORY!!!

Aftermath

Whether in low number ASL or PG, rolling snake eyes two attacks in a row is pretty much a game ender. With only 4 PARA platoons (and 3 reduced platoons) the early elimination of 2 full strength platoons spelled death for the Americans (particularly with the German reinforcements arriving on turn 16).

As with most of Airborne, this was a quick battle with limited LOS/spotting. The swamp, hedgerows and buildings really make it a close combat affair.