Across the Meuse

In 1940, the German plan was for Army Group B to overrun Holland and then move more slowly into Belgium to lure the bulk of the Allied armies in the Low Countries. Army Group A would then drive through the …

1940-05-13

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In 1940, the German plan was for Army Group B to overrun Holland and then move more slowly into Belgium to lure the bulk of the Allied armies in the Low Countries. Army Group A would then drive through the Ardennes Forest, splitting the Allied forces in two halves and effectively cutting off those in Belgium. The Allied High Command deemed the Ardennes largely impassable and never dreamed that German forces would make their primary push through this rough terrain. By May 10-12, the German plan known as "Fall Gelb" was unfolding as hoped for, at least as far as the Germans were concerned. One major obstacle, the Meuse River, still stood in the way of their advance. By May 13, German troops were in position at a number of strategic points along the river. In the area around Haux and Dinant, the 6th and 7th motorized regiments and armor units of Hermann Hoth's Panzer Corps were poised to cross over the Meuse. The French 18th Infantry and elements from 5th Motorized Division were dug-in behind well prepared positions and set to oppose the crossing. Accurate dive-bombing attacks against the French artillery positions, and the timely construction of a pontoon bridge, helped the Germans turn the tide quickly. Despite the frantic efforts of the French, bridgeheads were quickly established at Haux, Monthermé and Sedan. The German Armor, spearheaded by its Stukas and supported by motorized infantry, roared forward on a 50 mile front. The German Blitz was now in full display!

Dinant, Belgium

The Battle of Belgium or Belgian Campaign, often referred to within Belgium as the 18 Days' Campaign, formed part of the greater Battle of France, an offensive campaign by Germany during the Second World War. It took place over 18 days in May 1940 and ended with the German occupation of Belgium following the surrender of the Belgian Army.

Wikipedia: Battle of Belgium

German

French

Game Type: Standard

Board Type: Countryside

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