Another short, night scenario in Cassino. In this action, both sides receive points for destruction of enemy units and being within four hexes of the victory point hex. Given the reduced visibility (night scenario) and open terrain, this promises to be a bloody affair. The Americans set up in a defensive semi-circle within two hexes of the victory point location with the river to their rear. At this point, all of their steps count for VP’s, so they just need to keep the Germans away or lose less units than the Germans. The Germans set up outside of VP distance, so must close with the Americans and destroy units and/or occupy terrain close to the target hex. They start with more strength and higher morale, so my plan is to close (night scenario reduces visibility to 1 hex) and engage in assault. The Germans begin to close with the American defensive perimeter and start to focus on the American right flank. German HMG’s with INF advance adjacent to American center, and German INF slide towards the left flank to try and wrap around American right. Initial American defensive fire is very effective with a 2X result, immediately weakening German center. The next turn, German fire and assaults along their left flank reduce and demoralize American units. This battle soon becomes isolated firefights and assaults as stacks are rendered ineffective, and the opposing side seeks to take advantage. Given the low counter density, the river, and the short length, neither side is able to withdraw and regroup. So, at the end, the Americans emerge victorious as they are able to keep their remaining force within VP distance to the objective. This action proved to be very bloody and quick to play given the victory conditions.