The all out attack on Ventosa, Vimeiro 1808

Green Orders:

"My dear Count, come in have a drink. Ah, you already have - excellent. Now I know you were a little disappointed not to get in on the action last time out but now that we have these cowardly crapauds on the run it is time for you and your brave men to strike a blow for freedom, for Portugal!". Sgt Feuct gets out his penny whistle and we sing a popular fado song "Meu jumento está morto". The Count staggers from the tent in tears.

The Portuguese will advance straight along the road and cross the bridge, Sgt Ferrigno will accompany them.

Lt Darcy will take command of the elite rifle group and along with the other two skirmish groups, commanded by Sgt's Feuct and Lime respectively, they will advance past the two small buildings, across the stream and occupy the orchard/vineyard.

Lt. Snetterton-Lewis and myself will command the Line groups and occupy the environs of the two large buildings.

Once the Portuguese have drawn the French fire and the skirmish groups are in a position to give covering fire the Line groups will advance across the stream upon the two small buildings.

"Blood is what we require gentlemen. The bloodier the better".

Ventosa 20th August 1808: The All Out Attack

Ventosa... and yes that is my wargames journal in use once again. 

Captain von Wießmehr assaults the village of Ventosa early on the morning of the 20th August.  His plan is followed successfully, but it is the French Voltiguers who initially gain the upper hand.

The Portuguese march towards the bridge and the Captain realises that there has been some desertion from their ranks during the night.  In fact The Count of Pantalones is leading only one group.  As these are shot to pieces the Count gallantly stands his ground, until he is forced to lead a pitiful remnant in retreat.    

Lieutenant Darcy, commanding the skirmishers is wounded and swoons to the ground, although his men can`t see a mark on him.  It may be his injured pride, or perhaps I am prejudiced...

Sergeant Lime valiantly holds his own, but he too is shot down.  Whistling his famous theme tune he expires, still holding onto his well stuffed purse.

 

Von Wießmehr reluctantly sends Sergeant Feuct to command his skirmish line.  The Wachtmiester is an old hand at this and swiftly throws back the French.  

Caught between the skimishers, now holding the orchard and the advancing line the French are swiftly thrown back.  Their Officer orders a retreat but it is too late and the French are routed.  The Rifles pursue as far as Vimiero hill, gaining their last 25 victory points.  

Qunicy, Sergeant Feuct, the Count, Binky and William the bugler.

Captain von Wießmehr is halted however by the sight of General Junot's army, finally having emerged from Lisbon it can be seen camping some distance off.  Quincy has lost an Officer and a Sergeant.  Mr Darcy has gone missing, presumed run away, and Sergeant Lime is no more. 

By late afternoon General Welleseley himself appears:

"Ah Qwinthy, well dwone old Gwerman fellow.  Hold here.  We will see Gweneral Junot off tomowwow I think."