01 June 2001

Game Time 0900 Hours Lima

The day was bright and sunny, a beautiful early summer day. Possibly a sign of things to come, although it might just be in comparison to the awful weather they'd had so far throughout the spring.

About a week or so had passed since the raid on the farm. The hostage and would-be victim was recovered and released from hospital. Rescue and evacuation operations still proceeded up and down the Fraser, although the flood waters were beginning to recede. The team's personnel were assigned to assist the operations based in New West in any way they could.

Russalka proved to be very well-behaved and obviously had some kind of training, even perhaps was formerly a police or military working dog of some kind.

Overall, command still promised to fill out the unit's mostly empty roster with much-needed personnel. For now the team remained a skeletal cadre consisting of an HQ at UBC and a forward base in Burnaby.

"My apologies, I've been trying to get one of New West's Cougars for team use. Seems they won't simply hand them over but they will loan in exchange for the LAV. Command seems fine with this for now for political reasons but soon enough we'll get the local security forces integrated into the CF and the Vancouver Garrison structure."

"While our "guests" (the ones you picked up) have yet to talk, we have managed to glean a little useful intel from them and other sources. Mostly there are bikers operating in the valley. US military as well, although we don't know in what capacity. The truth is command is operating in a vacuum, moreso now flooding has disrupted communities and people have fled or been evacuated. Word is command is going to move into the valley by the end of the month or next month, and so you're going to be sent on a recce into "unknown" areas."

In reply to Alain Belanger (msg # 2):

"I see.  We'll want to pull our radios from the Spoonful.  Are we leaving it loaded with ammo, other gear?  Also, any word on those new hand portables for us?"

"The deal was the vehicle and weapons (excluding Commander's MG), so 25 milimetre and coax but no pintle mounts. Our comms we keep, they have their own.

"Good news, we got a shipment of those radios you asked for."

Very good, Belanger. Now, for the next missions we have to make sure that we have a better grip in the situation. Seems like the floods are going to complicate access everywhere. I'd rather use boats that float rather than armor that sinks. Also we need more presence of the militias if they are going to use the very best vehicle that we have. Since the hovercraft is not ready yet I guess we should stick with the zodiacs. That's not bad for a start but if we are going to embark in something serious I want a bigger platform that we can use. Just some ideas.

"I was hoping on a dozen or two 152's.  A dozen would do easily for now, secure, scrambled, channel jumping.  Get us a few steps ahead of those bikers."

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 5):

Belanger shrugged, showing his frustration.

"I'll see what leverage we can bring to bear with regards to militia support. We asked for the trade (well, loan) but it's not an equal one and we can try and use that to our advantage.

"For river operations we have a zodiac right now, as the rest of the boats are needed due to other operational priorities. I'll see about the whale watcher, or maybe something bigger with a shallow draft."

"Boats and personnel are two things we're short of the most at the moment."

152's???

The first thing that crossed Taras mind was the menacing sight of a battery of D-20s raining misery on the enemy.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 8):

"I wish we had some 152mm howitzers! No, I did get a you four more advanced digital radios, AN/PRC-152s."

"Sorry, these are the only ones in stock. These came all the way from Australia, I hear, and were intended to be isseed to front-line units facing the Soviets on Vancouver island before they were...repurposed."

He passed over a box containing the 4 tactical radios and accessories to Kelsey. "Enjoy."



Getting back to the task at hand, he continued.

"We're still quite busy dealing with the flood, but can't afford to ignore matters elsewhere. Your next job is what we are well-familiar with in the Canadian Forces: sovereignty patrol. We've had rumours of US troops being seen up the valley, around Aldergrove. So, it's not just the river that's important, but the border as well, which is about 15-20km south of the Fraser. Head upriver, check it out.

"Support where possible will be New West RCMP and the Militia garrison.

"Our ultimate goal is to establish an RCMP detachment and militia base to monitor and control the valley and the border. Once you locate any hostile groups there, like New America, bikers, deserters and so on, we will have a forward base as a jumping-off point on that side of the river. Plus, making contact with the local population will feed us intelligence."

Unlike most countries except the Soviet Union and Australia, Canada was a mostly empty land, a situation the war did not improve. 90% of the pre-war population lived withn a 120km-wide band along the US border, the rest, virtually uninhabited. The few government resources in the North were simply not enough control the vast frozen tundra, so mainly Inuit and Dene militia patrols ("Ranger Patrol Groups") and the odd Forces foray was used to assert sovereignty, on the cheap, instead of a full-time military presence. This was a pattern that followed in some ways the settlement of the west; RCMP and militia forts and detachments were established to "show the flag" in this great, empty nation.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:24, Tue 10 July 2012.

Kelsey checks the radios cursorily and then shrugs and grins.

"This will go a long way in improving our communications, a couple more for when we expand, but in the meantime these will be great squad or detachment radios, and very secure.

The looks at the map and frowns "Another boat ride?"

The conditions must be terrible in the valley. The water levels are insane and even if the flood is receding we can count with lots of problems regarding mobility. Before we move in depth out there we need to recce the status of the bridges. Can we get the militia to come with us to check the Patullo?

"Maybe! Although, the river doesn't go close to the border. There would be about a 15 kay hike if we don't have a ground vehicle."

"You can do this today. I think city engineers are going to open the bridge soon. The repairs took days, not weeks like they'd feared. There's also the Skytrain and rail bridges, those can all heavy vehicles to cross the river, if slowly."

Fair enough. I really prefer to take a look at the bridges before we venture any further. Wherever we go on a mission I want to have at least two axis of approach. I'm not familiar with the terrain so it will take me some time to take a look at the maps.

Is the New west militia interested in joining us in missions beyond their area of operations? I wouldn't mind to send them in easy route recce before we deploy with armor and such.

Taras produced a map to locate the new areas of interest beyond the Fraser River. With a smile of satisfaction he could see that the overall strategy was working as expected. Every "city" located right of the river was now under Government control and that included the entire North Shore. Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster the again re-emerging Richmond and The Tri-Cities, an informal term used to describe three adjacent suburban cities (and two villages) in the north-east sector of Metro Vancouver. That was a far cry from the humble origins that limited the extent to the original UBC community and city of Vancouver:



Expansion across the river will need a new strategy. We have so far a forward edge of the battlefield at the river and the end of it being the international boundary. Then there is the remaining parts of the Lower Mainland that we need to secure like Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge. That's a huge toll for our limited forces. We are going to need some sort of operational pause so I can make myself an idea about how redirect the current plans. The closer we get to the border the more important will be to find a valid diplomatic channel to operate safely. I suggest to get in touch with the HQ in the Island to coordinate efforts, etc.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 14):

"The militia won't be able to operate in a forward capacity for at least another week or two. They're making excuses, we aren't in a position to push them harder than this."

"Diplomatic channel with the Americans? The Canadian government doesn't recognise the authority of the US military government. It's illegal. So I'm not sure we could do anything official. Plus, we don't know what any patrols are doing, why they're here, or even if there are actual inclusions."

Yes, I'm aware that the current government in the US is not recognized but we need to contact the resistance or somebody across the border. If not, is not a border! We have to make the 49th parallel a reality somehow if we don't want to risk to have an endless area of operations...

Even if the US government is illegal I wonder if the Canadian authorities still regard the border as a legal one. I do believe so and I also believe that we cannot risk "invade" the country for operational purpose!

The Combat Engineer tapped with the pencil over the map.

You see, rivers make natural borders easy to manage: The Oder-Neisse line  between Germany and Poland. Ukraine border with Romania is the Prut; the Danube separates many countries!* Even Orthodoxs and Catholics are separated by the Bug river! But you see...having an artificial line separating nations is not helping us in this case. So far we have been including the natural elements in our missions to take advantage but we cannot let the opposite happen. I hope you understand what I mean!


*Danube currently separates:
 Austria and Slovakia
 Hungary and Slovakia
 Croatia and Serbia
 Serbia and Romania
 Romania and Bulgaria
 Romania and Ukraine

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 16):

"Actually, I guess I understand.

"The political and historical fact is that the negotiated border has been in place for over a century, whatever the actual reality. No one will seriously credit we move it to something more defensible, north or south, no matter how much that makes sense.

"The Canadian government will act as if the border is still there, so that is the extent of our operational area for now."

"As for US territory, it's our government's position that all territory south of the 49th parallel is still nominally under the authority of the US federal government, although much here in the west is currently in a state of rebellion or uncontrolled. I think we can (and should) ask for authorisation from the US government to operate across the border (as they operated on our territory with our permission during the war) especially if it's a case of "hot pursuit" of lawless or renegade military elements. There is a US consul of sorts in the provisional BC capital, I will send instructions to that effect.

"Regarding any "resistance" within territory under military government control, the following information is confidential. The CIA and other US government agencies have identified and are supporting loyalist elements among the population, military and civilian. Civilian refugees and displaced US military personnel within Canada are playing a key part, rest assured the CIA is based here in some sense, as well. I think in exchange for our so-far generous help we can ask for, say, local information inside the US military zone."

Kelsey lets out a low whistle in response to that information.  Nothing more.

Wait a second...the CIA? Some sort of consul in the Island?

Sorry, that is all new to me...If there are so many refugees coming from the US we need to strike some sort of deal and try to get some help out of that. So far we are only dealing with the bad guys. Organized bad guys, that is. Can we call the CIA then? A barbeque during the weekend!

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 19):

"The CIA's presence is largely covert. You've not been to the Island, and this far from US government-controlled territory, their representative keeps a low profile and is mainly concerned with refugee matters and displaced American military personnel.

"Whatever concessions we can get out of the Yanks may be minor, due to the distances involved (their enclaves are on the East Coast) and they have their own troubles. Information and some kind of legal cover (insofar as that matters to the US military) might be the limit."

Andy listened to the conversation and said, "So do we just track the American unit and make contact with them or do you want us to find a suitable location for a militia fire base? If it's the latter we'd better take a little surveying gear with us as well. What do you think Taras?"

"Information and legal cover would help.  Especially if I can get some radio info on what to use to approach those ex and possibly current forces.  My mum always said to call first if you are coming over, after all."

Exactly folks. We call first. From an operational point of view we may run into a big problem if we don't have any partners across the border. This much was true with the 40th Army in Afghanistan. My idea is to have a sort of contact of contacts across the border that would help mutually to secure both sides of the fence. Something like a zipper.

He linked the fingers of both hands to nail his point.

We are very short of manpower and the Canadian battalion still out there in the valley far away from contact. In the meantime there are many things that can be done. We need to probe the far banks of the Fraser for penetration routes and gather further intel from locals, prisoners, etc. Once we can get in touch with the Americans we can start advancing South in a classic "Hammer and anvil" maneuver. I would like to start from the West, from the coast. That is the shortest distance to the US border. From there we can move Eastwards and eventually link with the battalion.

Taras was depicting his operational intent in the map posted at the blackboard in the classroom.



This is, of course, one of many possibilities. Makes sense since there is a lower risk at the beginning since we look towards occupying terrain rather than bringing the fight to the criminal elements. Later on, we can envelop them more easily and we can make sure that the border is not too "leaky" if we can count with some help. This kind of operation can bring some political leverage as well. But that is beyond my expertise.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:18, Tue 10 July 2012.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 23):

"That battalion is up in Kamloops, about 500 km away! Up the Fraser, yes, but a long, long ways up. They won't be ready to move for weeks, yet."

"I see what you mean about the border. Operating with American loyalists would be like the South Africans operating in conjunction with UNITA in Angola. Not the best comparison, perhaps!"

"Still, at the moment, you should have little need to cross the border at this time. But yes, we need to make sure we can pursue criminal elements south.

"Once a federally-allied American force is set up (possibly CIA-supported and based in Canada) to lock down their side of the border, and we have CF, militia and RCMP based in the valley to shut down our side, the flow of guns and drugs should dry up. Possibly that will tempt the bikers to launch some kind of reckless attack, luring them into the open for us to smash, or maybe they'll slink away.

"For today, a reconnaissance sweep east is in order. Contact those communities. Help them if you can, or at least find out about the local situation. There will be no hammer south for now, or to be precise, you are the hammer. To make that happens, we'll have a look at the bridge, and go visit the Cougar that's being loaned to us. Any more questions?"

In reply to Alain Belanger (msg # 24):

"Why are we assuming that the CIA is friendly?  If they're here covertly, then they're not here with any premise of Her Majesty's approval."

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 25):

"Oh, well, the CIA's presence here is not covert to us, if you know what I mean. Not that they're in the phone book or anything but there are channels.

"The US government are our allies, of His Majesty's government, too, and there are reciprocal agreements and strong ties between our intelligence services (CIA, CSIS, MI6). I would imagine Commander Clarke-Sullivan, being an intelligence officer, might know more but probably can't say about any DRI-CIA cooperation, except that Lt. Stone may be involved. Or maybe not."

For that matter, Lt. Stone had upped and disappeared a day earlier, called back to DRI headquarters at UBC to talk with Commander Clarke-Sullivan.

Commander Clarke-Sullivan was their largely unseen commanding officer (OC), currently located back at UBC. She'd been in naval intelligence during the war, although such distinctions meant much less now. The particular team they belonged to (URIEL) was part of the federal Department of Reconnaissance and Investigation (DRI), created by the Canadian government to gather domestic intelligence and facilitate national reconstruction. There were both CF and RCMP personnel present, reflecting it's hybrid military-civil nature.

GM Note: the above might give newcomers a little better handle on who you are, what your team does in the bigger picture.

"I can't speak officially about any matters relating to the political standoff between the US government and renegade elements of the US military, as that's an internal matter we do not want to be pulled into. We have no such agreements with the US military junta or the DIA, they are not enemies so much as persona non grata.

"Which reminds me, if you do encounter US forces operating in Canada, they are not authorised to be here and should be escorted back across the border, peacefully. We don't want to get into a shooting war! So be careful and if you encounter any US military personnel, find out as much as you can. They may be here on reconnaissance looking for Soviet remnants, salvaging needed materials, pursuing criminals or guerillas, selling arms to bikers or civilians, who knows?

"For that matter, US military personnel probably have fond memories of operating with Canadians during the war. We believe they probably haven't even been told the truth about the schism between the military and US government."

In reply to Alain Belanger (msg # 26):

"Great, that shite's well outside my pay grade."

He paused a while.

"So we can't tell if these bastards are friends or foes, or spies.  That's a bastard set of ROE for us."

500 kilometers is nothing! One month! Holy Mother of Kazan! I can bring you a Type B regiment here in 1 week, take a piss, drink some vodka and then take Seattle!

And yes, those rules of engagement are going to be a real pain in the ass. We were frying yanks in Chinatown recently and also recruiting them at the same time! Anyhow, we need some clarification on the border problem. Once we cross the Fraser the game will be up and I don't want to run the troops into a potential disaster. Get the HQ to do some job while we clear the possible access routes.

Belanger, you mentioned moving East. What does it mean? Across the Pitt River and into Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge? Perhaps moving towards...what is this...Langley?

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 28):

Belanger smiled at Hawke. "Yes, the Yanks are tricky. You've got to get them to go peacefully if you can, not pick a fight. Unless they're engaging in clearly illegal activities like assault, rape, narcotics trafficking, arms dealing. Confiscate what you can, bring them into custody.

"Salvaging is a little dicey because that's technically looting, we don't want them to do it but it's not worth fighting over some scrap metal."

"As always, remember your Rights to Engage. RTEs state that you do not need for them to fire first if you are threatened. We don't want another Rwanda."

He then nodded at Taras.

"This isn't flat terrain like you're used to in the Ukraine or even most of Russia, this is 500km of mountains more rugged than the Urals. Not as simple as you'd think, with maybe two viable routes at most. Don't worry, nothing new to us!"

"Your eastern stop line is the border between Abbotsford and Chiliwack. South is the border, north is the river.

"Possible hostile forces include a Hells Angels chapter in Abbotsford, at least from before the war. There is also the prison at Matsqui in Abbotsford, which was never evacuated. The status of the convicts are unknown, although as none have showed up here I would guess they stayed there or travelled further east. Oh, have a look at the Abbotsford International Airport, too. That's the largest airfield in the lower mainland not under water.

"Friendly forces are located here, in New West. There are friendly detachments operating in Surrey across the river from the Pattullo and Port Mann, but they have their hands full with salvage and rescue operations."

Oh Belanger...do not underestimate the knowledge of the Red Army! Kamloops is a transportation hub and is well connected with highways. Not only that, there is a main railway centre. That's why you got there The Rocky Mountain Rangers. That's a light infantry unit that put a good fight up there. They don't have much tonnage to move around if you want to send anywhere...

Anyways, I understand that the federal government will have their own ideas across the chessboard. We'll start with the bridge, why not! Then we can see what we do in Surrey. Any news on that Cougar vehicle?

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 30):

"The Cougar would be handy from my perspective, as it would allow me to carry more inventory for my med bag.  I could do some serious help with that."

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 30):

"Aside from the Rocky Mountain Rangers, there's also a former Soviet Motor Rifle Regiment in Kamloops, as well. Part of the delay is organising some kind of joint force that's good for more than local defence."

"The Cougar is ready to go at the Westie's armoury. We can head down at any time! Then examine the bridge."

The days after the Port Coquitlam mission were spent by Taras and his new Polish friend surveying the Pattullo Bridge. Constructed in 1936–37, it spanned the Fraser River linking the city of New Westminster on the north bank of the river to the city of Surrey on the south bank. The bridge's base was constructed of wood. A key connexion between Surrey and the rest of the Lower Mainland, before the war, the bridge handled an average of 67,000 cars and 3400 trucks daily. The bridge's dark orange colour and arch shape cause it to resemble the Port Mann Bridge, located a few kilometres upstream.

Although not bridge engineers per se, Taras and Darek were able to understand the forces bearing on a steel structure. Shevchenko was trained to be able to act against them with explosives! The real and potential forces influencing any bridge are many and varied: Gravity, weight of the structure, traffic, wind, snow (this is Canada after all!), etc. Then there are dynamic loads that refer to sudden, one-off disastrous events like nuclear bombardment,tsunamis, earthquakes, etc. Unlike the Second Narrows bridge (totally destroyed by a nuke) or the slightly affected Lions Gate Bridge, the Pattullo was free of man-made World War III elements and that was a blessing. Stress placed upon an structure during one of these events are extremely difficult to predict. Witness the overpasses that collapsed in San Francisco in the 1989 earthquake.

The seemingly abandoned bridge most likely danger came in the form of the wildlife that inherited this piece of real estate. As a Staff Sargent of the RCMP Taras was able to grant a patrol unit to provide some protection at the Southern end while inspection was taking place. Barely armed with a Makarov just in case some of the life forms may turn nastier than usual, the most likely tools were the pair of binoculars, hand held radios and climbing gear. The buddy system was mandatory for safety reasons. Pairing with the Polish permitted to conduct some rope work to inspect the structures. The slavic background of both characters as well as the common nature of their specialised job brought them together really fast. More so when your life was depending on who's at the end of that rope!

Overall the bridge appeared to be in a decent shape and several vehicles in an increasing weight scale were used to test the strenght before rolling the heavy Cougar. Taras found out that the Pattullo was closed to oversized commercial vehicles such as heavy trucking but he was confident that it will support the Cougar as it was at least 10 tons lighter than the LAV III.

Tuesday, 01 June 2001
1100 Hours Lima

The morning was sunny and pleasant. They rolled down through New West, entering the north checkpoint, then down 6th st. south towards the river. The militia at the Westies armoury (next to city hall) directed them to the north end of the Pattullo bridge. There they would find the Cougar they'd been loaned, along with the RCMP NCO that was the vehicle commander.

The Cougar armoured vehicle was parked on an overpass overlooking the bridge from the north. There were a few militia around, they pointed out where to find Cpl. Sochaki. He was across the bridge, on the south side. To get to him they'd have to cross over to the south side.

Cpl. Sochacki was dressed in CF Olive drab combats (army fatigues) with a black armoured beret and black RCMP/GRC tactical vest. He was standing below the south bridge abutment with a party of New West city engineers in reflective vests, going over the recently-finished bridge repairs.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 33):

The two men spoke a common language in a world and place so different from the one they grew up in. Their roles reversed, it was the Polish man that was subordinate to the Ukrainian, as his RCMP rank demanded. Still, they had common interests, and it was much easier to communicate in their native languages than English.

"Taras, what sort of security were you thinking about for this end of the bridge?" Darek asked, interested to know Taras's thoughts.

OOC: Here we go! :P

Kelsey took one of the Jeeps along with them to to Cougar, with all the gear and setup for the Lovin' Spoonful radio setup.  A pair of recent SINCGARS able base boxes, a booster, a big whip antenna, a shorter whip antenna, and a base antenna that could be set up and raised on the ground.  Also, she carried the four new SINCGARS able portable sets.  With the one or two other SINCGARS sets available she was in good shape, she thought.

Kelsy drove as far as she could, then dismounted.  She got a look at the fellow and adjusted her glengary before approaching him.

"Cpl. Sochaki, I hope?  Sergeant Champlain.  I got the radios to put in the Cougar, is that her?"   She indicates the nearby vehicle.

She is hoping that the CF 'reserve' Glengary might put him more at ease, though any experienced soldier would note her previous unit's tabs still on most of her uniforms.

She's got her gear stowed in the jeep as well, just in fatigues and carrying her sidearm, her Carbine in the gun mount for the driver in the nearby 'jeep'.

Some critical points, such as this key bridge, within the area of responsability of the RCMP detachment may be vital to the tactical plan. Such crossing point needed to be controlled to permit friendly units to use them and to prevent the enemy from using them. So far there was no plan to turn this critical point into an obstacle by use of demolitions. Nonetheless, Taras felt that similar conditions to that of the creation and assigment of a demolition guard were granted in order to set up the defense of this newly acquired asset.

We are going to set up an improvised "Demolition Guard". This is the unit tasked to ensure that the site of a reserved demolition is not destroyed or captured by the enemy. In this case we are not going to blow up anything but it will serve the purpose.

This should prevent any sabotage, attack, etc and help to regulate the traffic. We will have updated status and use it as a launching platform for the next mission.

For that matter I shall prepare at least two platoons of militia commanded by experienced RCMP Officers. The two platoons will provide an all-round defense, Soviet style. I should position one platoon on the "enemy" side of the bridge to occupy roadblocks on avenues of approach leading to Surrey. This platoon will be  responsible for all actions on that side, I'll put another platoon on and around the bridge to defend it and regulate the flow. I will also set up a quick reaction force coordinated with the New Westminster unit with our LAV III and give them combat positions from which they can support the platoon defending the bridge and the platoon defending the enemy side.

Again, this will be a temporary arrangement until we can get a firm hold on the South bank and some tactical depth for the defense of the bridge. In the meantime we can ready the Cougar for action and start planning our advance...

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 37):

There was already a police/militia checkpoint there on the south end of the bridge, but only section-sized and consisted of traffic barriers and a single small bunker made of sandbags and cinder-blocks. Mostly to regulate traffic and search vehicles crossing the bridge when desired.

Nothing that elaborate, and a platoon (or less) could easily take it out. The local militia NCO took some notes, to follow up on later.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 36):

Cpl Sochacki stood listening to Taras as he talked about security. When he saw Kelsey, he stopped speaking Polish and continued to talk to him in English. Once she finished introducing herself, he returned her greeting and asked her how she functioned as part of the group.

"Sgt Champlain, we are discussing the bridge's defenses" Darek said, waving towards the Ukrainian and then nodding at the bridge. "I was thinking of some metal rods or concertina wire to funnel foot traffic  through a narrow entrance. What do you think about this idea?"

"Mac" looked around and grunted.

"Huh, this is the edge of biker territory. Seems like defenses are a little light. Heard some rumours that New West had some sort of "arrangement" with the HAs or other bikers."

Darek had heard the rumours as well, although most of the time some sort of plausible excuse had been given in the past on why a larger outpost wasn't possible at this location.

In reply to Christopher Little Hawk MacDonald (msg # 40):

"Mac, do you think some sort of local recruiting drive is in order?" DS asked. "Maybe some sort of equivalent to a 'neighbourhood watch' sort of thing. One of our guys to one of the loacals. It might help our standing with the civilian population."

"I would make sure it is hard to drive through.  Can I get to work on installing commo in the vehicle?"  She gestures up the hill to the intended vehicle.

Mac helped Kel start to load the Cougar with the comms gear.

"That's a good idea, Darek. More something to pass along to the militia or police, someone with the resources and personnel. I know the RCMP is recruiting auxiliaries and the militia is expanding.

"As a Dept. of Investigation and Reconnaissance team, our two main tasks are to gather intelligence and back up local forces when needed. So we're kind of transient at the moment. Patrolling neighborhoods alongside the local citizens is very effective but is more of a long-term project. Maybe we can get the ball rolling, and in theory when we get more DRI personnel we can set up a network to collect local information."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 42):

"Absolutely Sergeant, by all means" Cpl Sochacki told the woman. "Also, if you have any ways to imrove comms or overal electric systems of the Cougar, please feel free to improvise."

"Mac, I understand what you mean about long term projects" the Pole said. "Recce, I get it. Still, if we're to expand operations in this area, we're going to start taking losses. I just think it's a good idea to get some people trained up just in case we have to fill some gaps while 'on the road'".

OOC:

OK obviously Dare Sochacki has at BEST an accent and at WORST garbled words and mistakes in grammar. I'm not going to try to type what I think his accent sounds like. It's too hard to read. Just understand that he's not a native English speaker and isn't doing well in communication, even if he really is trying to 'go for Canadian-sounding', whatever that means. :)

J
This message was last edited by the player at 11:21, Mon 16 July 2012.

"Thank you Corporal, I will do what I can for the vehicle."  She proves quite capable of lifting and moving the heavy radios herself, not that she doesn't appreciate the help.

Que Dieu nous aide, je ne peux pas le comprendre.  She mutters in earshot of Mac, as they are working on the radios.  "Did you understand him, Mac?  I heard him using your nickname, do you know him?  Oh, hand me that spanner would you buddy?"  She says the last pointing at a spanner wrench just out of her reach as she is balancing a radio with one hand.

As they getting their radios shoehorned into the Cougar and with the antenna up and active she performs radio checks with the portable units she has, both vehicle radios, and the base radio.  She'll hook the vehicle comm system to at least one set, and switchable.  She brought as much of the comm equipment including the helmets and mics as she could, not knowing what she would be walking into.  Hopefully since both are CF vehicles they will be to the same standard as their LAV.

Wayne had been characteristically quiet since the last operation, yet distant in a way that he was not on the boat ride to the farm.  He never did take up Kelsey on her offer of beer--no explanation given--and he made no demands, other than a few boxes of 9mm training ammo that he unceremoniously expended at the range.

Wayne had been habitually out of uniform during the down time the group received, appearing in battle dress for the first time on the morning of their departure.  Now he waits with the main body of the team, watching as Taras appears to haggle for the keys to the new IFV.

The key ring itself got caught on a tough thread inside the pocket of the RCMP uniform and just won’t come loose. The keys have slipped into one of those “mystery pockets” inside the lining of a coat that Taras inherited from a previous member when the whole crap went up and distuerbed the rotary elements in the celing (i.e WW3).

Taras managed to pull the keys out of the pocket, but then he dropped them into a sewer grate that just happened to be by the curb near where the Cougar was parked.

KURWA!!!
Instead of Russian "blyat" and "suka", Shevechenko made use of Ukrainian language to kindly show his surprise...

After a tricky recovery involving some serious grate lifting and filth removal he found that the keys were twisted backward through the ring and there was not enough of it exposed to put in the contact.

это пиздец!!!

Shaking then hard, he twisted the key too hard and it snapped off the ring. But he was finally able to put it inside and start the engine. Once he got the key into the ignition, the whole ridiculous scenario dissipated quickly.

Kelsey exits the vehicle and looks around, finding taras she holds out a radio to him "I have four of these SINCGARS enabled radios, I'm keeping one in case we dismount, we also have one personally owned on one of the teams.  I plan on giving the sniper team one, you one.  That leaves us a spare that I will have on hand to issue out as need, unless you are sure you will be with the vehicle.  I want us to be fully secure on radio ops, especially if we have to deal with Americans."

"That sounds good, Kel," Andy said, "it would be nice to have the tech edge on the Yanks for a change."

Kelsey hands over the radio to Andy "Here's one for your team, Andy.  Might want to have Mac carry it on mission, your call.  I don't know about edge, but we should be on par with them if they have proper ops, and yeah, pretty far up if they don't."  she grinned a the thought of having one up on the Yanks.  "Now the Hell's Angels and the other riff-raff, them we should have a nice edge of commo on."

OOC:

So Andy takes one for the team? :p

J

Taras took the new handheld radio gratefully. A years light piece of technology compared to the Khruschev era radio equipment in his previous unit and the basic run of the mill "Motorolas" in service with the RCMP.

Very well. We have a new vehicle ready and green light for access across the bridge. We also have security in place to launch from the Southern bank. I guess we just have to take the "Cougar" for a ride and...

The Sargent looked with terror over Kelsey's shoulder:

NO!!! NO!!! SHUSH!!!

Rusalka was about to relieve herself over the rear left Michelin XM 325/85R16 tire, a steel belted radial model indicating an early version. Ashamed, the furry friend, walked away for a discreet mission out in the woods.

Don't want to ruin that "new car smell" anyways...

Kelsey laughs and watches the dog, then calls her over to pet her and love on her.

"Taras, there is nothing new about that Cougar, including the smell."

Come on, don't spoil the dream!

He motioned to get everybody on board:

Lets go! Is a fine day for a ride!

Taras climbed into the turret. The space was way more cramped compared to that of the more modern LAV III. He gave a thumbs up to Darek.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 54):

"Smells like diesel and old feet."

Hawke climbed aboard, and looked for a place for him, and room for his pack.

"The AED doesn't do well with water."

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 54):

Wayne will approach the Cougar when Taras urges the group into it.  After he hauls himself and his gear through the rear hatch he will search for a seat as far to the fore of the compartment as possible.

Kelsey hunkers down with the radios and contacts base.

"Foxtrot element, rolling."


She hands out the call signs she had put together ad hoc just before they left base.

"Ok, I'm Fox one, or prime.  Taras is Fox six, Andy and Mac are Eleven and Twelve, respectively.  Whoever is driving this bucket is Three- that's you, Wayne.  Tremblay you are five, up in the gunner's seat.  Darek is Two as the Vehicle commander.  Did I miss anyone?  Normally I'd hand out Eleven as XO, which I think Andy fits."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:45, Fri 20 July 2012.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 57):

"All Fox elements, this is Fox __ (?), radio check" Cpl Sochacki said into the radio. He was waiting for the ok from Taras before moving out.

And off we go! Driver! take the Cougar for a nice ride. Nothing to bumpy! People! get use to the vehicle and we'll conduct a radio check of the new equipment. Once we are done we'll come back to base and prepare the next mission.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 57):

As soon as Wayne is identified by Kelsey as the driver he becomes more animated, even his posture taking a turn for the better.  "Aye-aye; I'll have the helm!" he acknowledges.  He stows his rifle and excess gear as best he can before sliding into the driver's position.

Once he is seated and has the motor idling, Wayne will follow the directions given by Taras, or whoever takes up the mantle of vehicle commander.

Hey! Everybody pile-up behind the turret! Not everybody has a room reservation. Ha, ha ha!!! This is Byzantium style for now!

The good weather and simple approach to become familiar with the vehicle made the test drive more of a good time than a combat operation. Even Rusalka was willing to follow them.

"Roger that!"

Kelsey piles on behind the turret, more than happy to sit up in the wind with her C8 cradled in her lap, she'll try to get the dog up in with them back there if she wishes as well.

Wayne climbed into the driver's seat, Taras claimed the commander's seat. Darek, a decent gunner, occupied that position. Wayne, Kel and Mac piled on behind the turret. Tremblay stayed with the LAV, helping the former British Columbia Dragoons (now New West Militia) get situated.

"Good luck! I'll catch my own ride back to base." Tremblay called over. Base, in this case, base being the former high school.

In front of them a highway (King George Boulevard, 99A) led east and curved up a wooded hill (Scott Hill) with scattered residential housing. To the right (south) were wide parking lots for the abandoned Scott Road skytrain station and big box hardware supply stores, now housing massive amounts of refugees in tents, vehicles, cardboard shacks. To the left (north) were auto parts stores, a pub, burned out Chevron station. Their main choices were to go forward and then turn right on Scott Rd, travelling along the base of Scott Hill, or straight up the hill. West, behind them, was the bridge.

OOC: You can go north, south, east, west. It's like Zork! With guns!

Andy sat on the armoured roof of the Cougar and hoped that the jaunt would be the joy ride that Taras envisaged. If there were threats that they hadn't considered, they could be in deep shit and in Andy's experience, there were always threats you hadn't considered...

Kelsey settled in and with a few motions was assigning arcs of care to the others, so that they had awareness of their surroundings, taking right and forward for herself.

"Now if only we brought a picnic lunch."

Mr Wayne! Take the highway all the way up to the hill and stop there! We will conducting a drill. The guys on top: Kelsey, Andy, Hawke, MacDonald! When we stop there dismount and set up a defensive perimeter. Darek and myself will be training with the turret but without ammo. That will be a good chance to check the new radios.

The highway was offering a commanding view of the city of Surrey. A city totally transformed by the ravaging effects of the refugees and the proximity to the conflictive border source of continuous trouble. The impressive view of an unsuspected vehicle of the Canadian Forces driving at speed with visible manpower atop wouldn't go unnoticed. This was another factor Taras was weighing in. There were plenty of people in need placing high hopes in the return of normalcy under the aegis of a Government.

Whatever criminal elements in place will be also taken by surprise by a selective yet powerful display of force. The ex Officer of the Soviet Army wasn't taking too many chances. He was going to conduct a basic mechanized infantry drill for effect. On a different historical turn this could have been a sort of "Thunder Run". A somehow calculated dare thrust into the heart of the enemy territory.

Finally, the newly minted Staff Sargent wanted to extract some quality Intel as this was the true "reason d'etre" of the team. And nothing like having a visual of the front lines by themselves. He wasn't expecting the "Order of Lenin" for that but surely he was expecting to have fun while doing so...

"Roger!  Hawke, you are with me!"  She gives the sniper team the left side of the vehicle to watch, and gives Hawke right rear.  Teams of two makes sense.  "We'll dismount and rush to cover to the right, then after that one at a time in classic infantry movement.  Andy, leaving your team to you, of course.  To the left?"

"Roger that Kel," Andy agreed, "we'll take the right: same MO, rush to first cover and then bounding overwatch to the best position for defence and observation."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 67):

"Roger"

Hawke followed Kel as instructed.

While Canada never operated the Scorpion the original turret was married with the early MOWAG Piranha I chassis to create the AVGP Cougar as a fire support vehicle. Now it was a "recce" with a punch. Back in the magic days of the 90's the decision was made to employ the Cougar as reconnaissance vehicles until the Reserves could be supplied G-wagons. But the Cougar was hardly ideal as a recce vehicle in Taras mind as its gun was too slow firing and the vehicle too tall to be stealthy compared to the low profile of the BMP family, for instance. But it was lighter than the LAV and probably the swimming capability would become in handy.

By now, Darek was already familiar with the system. After all, foreigners and more so former enemies did have a way to get quick acceptance in the society by taking up arms and defend their new landlords. Serving either in nascent Police Department or more common militias their professionalism helped them to adjust to the new living conditions.

Darek and Taras were seated in the all-welded aluminium armour turret with the Ukrainian on the left and the Pole on the right, both had a one-piece hatch cover that opened to the rear unlike most of the Warsaw Pact. Taras found seven day periscopes and a roof-mounted day sight in front of his hatch cover with magnifications of ×1 and ×10. He noticed that the roof-mounted sight was capable of limited rotation allowing approximately 85° of horizontal field of view. Darek had two day periscopes and also roof-mounted day sight with same magnifications. Mounted to the right of the main armament was a passive night sight with a magnification of ×5.8 and a narrow 8° field of view. Also a low magnification of ×1.6 (28° field of view).

After becoming familiar with the internal layout, the RCMP sargent tested the radio and welcomed to do so to the rest of the crew. He didn't expect any glitch trusting Kelsey in her area of expertise. Open hatch, Shevchenko talked to Darek making sure that he was overhead by Kel in the middle of the roaring of the engine:

Darek, will be conducting a simulation in target acquisition when we stop the vehicle. Fisrt it will be me. I want to make sure that we are able to see the same things around. Then we will let Kelsey to choose some targets for you after they dismount and take positions. Is that ok, my friends?

After everyone got settled, they rolled up King George Boulevard towards Scott Hill. Per custom, the Cougar had a small Canadian flag tied to the aerial and it fluttered as they moved.

People started drifting out of the refugee camps along both sides of the wide boulevard, gathering along the roadside fences. The kids waved, most of the adults seemed tired, bored and apathetic.

First was the intersection with Scott Rd. There was a second roadblock here, more elaborate than the one at the foot of the bridge (which was mainly to regulate foot traffic). There were bunkers, barbed wire and fencing. Traffic barriers were placed regulate vehicle traffic. It looked like the prepared positions could hold at least a platoon, but only a handful of police (RCMP) were there at the moment, along with a police car.

The Mounties stationed there advised them there was a biker bar at the top of the hill, past the first intersection about a block down on the left.

The diesel roared as they swiftly climbed the hill. The raised concrete Skytrain tracks paralleled the wide road on their right. There were mainly woods and a few houses and buildings on the both sides, although a couple motels/refugee encampments and looted auto parts yards were on the left.

At the top of Scott hill, they stopped at the intersection of 108 st. This area, known as "Whalley/Newton", had been infamous before for drug dealing and street prostitution. It was a kind of suburban wasteland, with few high-rises in sight (except for one down the hill on 108) but many strip malls lining King George.

The view was less than what was hoped-for. 1-3 story buildings and trees blocked most lines of sight, although they were afforded a nice view of the North Shore mountains across the valley. They could see further down King George, as it travelled along a kind of ridge line, and both ways up and down 108.

When they stopped, everyone deployed correctly and efficiently. There were vacant storefronts on all corners of the wide intersection. Cover was somewhat limited on the wide sidewalks as the decorative trees had been cut down some previous winter. There were a few long-stripped vehicle hulks dragged off to the side of the road. Nothing that could hide an IED but enough for some protection to the dismounts.

OOC: Topography is a little funny here. King George is relatively flat or even descending a little in front of you, curving around and then downhill behind. Right on 108th is downhill (with an abandoned skyscraper formerly housing government offices and a Skytrain station) and left up 108th is uphill. Scott hill doesn't really have a defined peak, mostly a long ridge/rise that's heavily developed with low-rise buildings, strip malls, fast food joints and residential housing.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:08, Tue 24 July 2012.

Lets go back, then.

The dismounts exercise went flawlessly and defining targets for the main and secondary armament in the turret didn't present any major trouble. Mostly it was a matter of adjusting the speed of the turret and get more proficiency within the crammed interior. As a matter of effectiveness the "air sentry" position for the Commander offered more responsiveness for target acquisition if more exposed. Taras found the optics to be of practical use in the recce support. More so in the scanning of buildings while being under armor. As expected the radios worked well.

I guess we will have to stop by the refugee camp and find out what kind of leadership they have and try to get an interview. What do you think? I guess is a good oportunity to show the flag and gather some intel. I would advise Belanger of our options...

Kelsey keys the radio "Fox six, this is one.  What do you say we practice some infantry tactics on the way back.  It's a good little work out."

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 70):

Cpl Sochacki tried to impress his new 'boss' with his skill, but a lack of experience with the equipment made the targets difficult to spot at first.

"Confirmed.....say again confirm target, over?" Darek struggled, attempting to be understood in his best English. "Gunner, rotate turret fifteen degrees left.... nie, nie... my left. Stop. Identify"

The Polish man was awkward and barely understood in the Cougar crew's headsets. He listened to the Staff Sergeant for orders and feedback from his attempts to adjust the Cougar crew and their actions.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 11:53, Wed 25 July 2012.

We can do that, Kelsey. Just tell me what you have in mind and you can take command of the dismounts. A little bit more practice with the turret won't hurt either. Try to rise Belanger on the net and ask permission to visit the displacement camp. I think we can make an impression.

The ex-Liutenant tapped Darek's shoulders. He was a good soldier in the good tradition of the Polish Army. Through many Warsaw PAct exercises the Red Army was getting acquainted with their Socialist Brothers and the exemplary efficiency of the Poles always called the attention of the Soviet brass. This massive military exercises were more a demonstration of the might of the Red threat for external as well as internal consumption but were terribly demanding in execution. Large amount of units were involved in themes like "Zapad-81" as well as the "Brotherhood" series mostly taken place in East Germany. Through them, the soviet soldier could learn not only about military but also cultural and many other aspects of the Warsaw Pact members.

It was too bad that Poland played the exact role that the Stavka designed for. Instead of a display of gallantry in the battlefield the whole nation was martyred and the little remants left to their own devices. The figure of the lone Polish survivor moved Taras. Both of them belonging now to the exile. At least those refugees in the camp would have a place to return.

Lets give a hand to those poor souls...

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 75):

Cpl Dariusz Sochacki realized he was messing up. The Ukrainian's gaze told him all he needed to know.

Not Good Enough

The Polish man adjusted his issue glasses on his face. He took a breath.

What the hell is wrong with me? I'm better than this he thought, looking around the cramped compartment of the Cougar. He had been in the Cougar many times before, so why was this any different?

"Infantry, prepare for disembarkation" he said into the helmet-mounted mouthpiece. He felt himself start to relax a bit, and tried to mirror the Staff Sergeant's relaxed demeanor. "Thirty seconds, stand by."

As driver, Wayne found the Cougar was fairly top-heavy compared to the LAV.

The LAV's 25mm turret was about the same size as the Cougar's 76mm turret. The LAV's hull was heavier with a lower centre of balance and a longer wheelbase. This wouldn't be a problem as long as they took corners with some care, but off-road might get a little tricky.

The dismounts remounted, then the Cougar started rolling back down Scott Hill towards the main refugee encampments at and around the Skytrain and the big-box stores and parking lots. They saw a couple children carrying plastic bags walking along a side street, and they waved. A couple stray dogs rooting through garbage chased after them, barking.

Belanger wasn't available, but relaying back through to UBC, Cdr. Clarke-Sullivan quickly gave her assent.

"Sounds good, glad to see you're showing the flag there!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:33, Fri 27 July 2012.

Andy readied himself for civilian operations. He replaced his boonie hat with his beret and made sure that his face was relatively clean and human looking. Years of counter-insurgency work had taught Commonwealth troops that if civilians saw you as inhuman soldiers they would react angrily. Making yourself more approachable usually led to better relations.

Andy reached into the top pocket of his blouse and pulled out a couple of badges. He pinned on  an I love UBC badge and a big yellow smiley face.

Andy looked over and said, "I've got a couple more badges if anyone wants them, I use them as a personality substitute with the locals."

Kelsey grins at Andy, but shakes her head.  She replaces her helmet with a Glengary, and smiles widely "I'll be fine, Andy.  Taras, I was thinking we could have the dismounts walk it before the vehicle.  Loose formation considering where we are headed, but allows us to scout out any possible trouble before the vehicle arrives."

In reply to Andrew Montgomery McRae (msg # 78):

Darek Sochacki listened to the words 'personality substitute' and wondered if it was some sort of slang, or if it was a nickname for a common item, like 'sugar substitute'. In an effort to learn more, he kept quiet and listened.

I like it, Kel. Get the dismounts in front and will approach slowly.

"Roger!  You heard him boys, dismount.  Andy take Mac and cover the left, me and Hawke on the right.  Stagger out a bit, walk it out and keep your eyes peeled.  We're looking out for big brother and him for us."

She slides back down and does a quick jog to get up front and starts stretching it out.

"Got it," Andy replied. He checked his rifle and fanned out to take his side of the patrol. He kept alert and was constantly scanning for potential trouble.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 82):

Hawke hops down off the Cougar, and stretches out a bit.  He checks his coat pockets for their cargo, and puts his rifle into a combat sling.

"We'll see what we run into.  Reminds me of Ireland."

"Next time we plan a little better, and bring a few treats to hand out of some sort to the kids."

She thinks a moment, then keys the radio.

"Taras!  See if you can scrounge out some tidbits to give to the children.  I can skip a meal, you can hand out my entire ration piecemeal."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 85):

"Don't bother, got it covered."  Hawke hands her a hard candy.

"Picked some up before we left.  You'd be amazed at what a hard candy will buy.  It once bought me a pack of kids to be sentries while I worked on a... patient."

Kelsie looks at the little treat and smiles, pocketing it.

"Good going Hawke!  Beats handing out cigarettes to them."

Good idea, Kelsey. Better yet, since we have the bridge open I'm going to order the RCMP detachment to send us some supplies straight to us for delivery. We didn't know that we were going to come across this but we are not wasting the oportunity.

Taras raised RCMP on the proper radio channel and ordered ASAP a quick supply of anything that could be quickly delivered from the nearest HQ. The instructions were clear once the camp location was pinpointed. The RCMP vehicle will then return to towards the new posts located across the bridge.

Shevchenko made some quick numnbers with the timing. Following dismounts meant slow down the "Cougar" to a crawl and that would give time enough for the Law Enforcement to bring some supplies quickly and then leave. A good thing about operating "in the edge of the woods" is that the logistics train was never too far away as well as the possibility of bringing in reinforcements. For the the time being he also considered that going in "solo" would also increase the chances of success rather than sending a full task force.

Darek, while we are moving slowly we'll try to pick up some targets of oportunity. Steady on the gun!

Then he popped out of the turret to get a visual. The creeping speed allowed for a nice scanning of the area using the vintage binoculars that now was a crucial piece of kit. He would be looking for an entry point for the camp as well as any other possible threat lurking in the surroundings.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 88):

"Y'know, Kelsie, I think we're putting on a scary face when we shouldn't.  This is Canada, not Ireland.  I hae to remember that."

He slung his rifle over his shoulder, and took his gloves off.  You can't shake hands and mean it with someone wearing gloves.

"Point out anyone who looks like they need to talk to a doctor.  I'm nae doctor, but I'll play one on the telly."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:52, Sat 28 July 2012.

Kelsey laughs at Hawke, but she keeps her rifle at a loose high ready.

"Not bad.  Remember that we are still outside the zone though, keep that rifle handy, just.. try not to look threatening."

Kids, bored but not malnourished came out to the fence along the parking lot where the tents were pitched and waved. Adults looked on with some amusement, they too needed some kind of distraction. The kids eagerly accepted the candy.

Unlike Northern Ireland, no one was throwing rocks at them, there didn't appear to be partisan graffiti scrawled across the walls, there was no barbed wire or blast barriers. It smelled heavily of smoke from camp fires, and there was a grey haze over the area. There were probably a few thousand refugees camped there, or more. There were signs that the water had been high enough to flood the area

Over the radio, Clarke informed them that the government had set up the camp less than a week ago with the help of the city authorities in New West. As it was new, the team hadn't been informed of its location but were probably welcome there.

The camp had an RCMP detachment, and an aid station. An RCMP Sergeant (female) wandered out to meet them. She was dressed in a regular uniform, wearing a peaked cap with yellow hatband, patrol vest over khaki grey uniform, black pants with yellow stripe. No longarm but standard sidearm.

Kel was on the wrong side of the Cougar when the "camp" Mountie camp up to them, so didn't recognise her until the last moment...
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:48, Sat 28 July 2012.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 91):

"Hi babe! Taras, Master McRae.

"You assholes get lost or something?"

In reply to Zhang Rachel Lee (msg # 92):

Darek Sochacki listened closely as the woman of Asian decent, clearly a fellow soldier and friend, called his fellow crew members what he formerly thought of as an insult. Realizing under certain circumstances you not only could call someone a name, you probably should call them a name, he fumbled for a pencil and a pad of paper in his pockets to write this down.

Kelsey came around the side of the Cougar when she heard that voice, a grin widening on her face.

"Rae, if I knew you were here I'd have gotten us lost a lot sooner.  You're looking good."

She gave Kel a quick hug, then shook hands with everyone else.

"You're too kind! We've been here a few days, didn't get a chance to call. The camp's phone was just connected yesterday. Hey, I heard about the "Pig Farm". Way to go, guys! Wish I could'a been there. Apparently, they're holding him without bail until the trial. He's going down for several counts of premeditated murder, forceable confinement and kidnapping, you name it. Too bad we don't have the death penalty."

Kelsey hugged her back warmly and grins wider talking to her than most are used to seeing, she looks ungaurded, in a way.

"Thanks Rae, it was a tough one, Taras really saved the day.  Not sure I want to know the details, there was a moment there when I just wanted to kill the lot of them."  She shrugs slightly, looking troubled a moment "But, I didn't.  The past is past.  Hey, think you can ask around the refugees for my sisters or dad?"

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 96):

"Glad you made it through all right. I mean that."

She shook her head sadly. "I've been asking around like you asked. Nothing so far. Don't worry, babe, they're all right and we'll find them."

Kelsey replies, very softly "Yeah, I know.  Thanks Rae.  And thanks for the help, I really appreciate..."  She smiles weakly and then shrugs slightly, smiling a little wider  "So how long will you be out here?"

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 98):

Darek swiveled the turret back and forth slowly, covering the rest of his team as they conversed with the woman the others called 'Rae'.

"Nother couple days, I imagine. Go for dinner then?"

She noticed the turret tracking back and forth.

"Hey, tell Guderian up there to quit it. These are friendlies around here! No man's land starts pretty much at the top of Scott Hill. Biker bar up there, even before the war."

Kelsey glances back at the Cougar and her lips set a moment in a single line, she keys her radio "Fox One to Fox Six.  Still that turret, this is all friendlies here.  I hear tell about the non if you want to peek."

She lets go of the mic and then smiles again, openly.  "Dinner.  Sounds great, Rae."

Taras couldn't help but take a look towards Kel as she came up in the air and with the help of the vision blocks could identify the fellow RCMP member.

OK, Darek. Practice is over! Wayne, lets go join our old good friend down there!

Somehow he wasn't too surprised as the working ways of the Mounties were far away from those of the military with a more relaxed discipline and the typical Canadian easy way of things. He was glad to see things working out fine in the beginning of the new set of operations that would bring Government control closer to the border.

After the mandatory salutations he clarified the fine points of the current mission and also informed that some supplies were on their way to the camp to win the hearts and minds of its inhabitants. Hopefully they will be able to gather intel in depth about the strength and location of the threats in the area.

I think we can stay here until the end of the day and then go back and prepare a new launching point in this side of the bridge. We are going to need a sound building with parking facilities.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 102):

Hawke's behind Kelsey, and stands, watching his quadrant, and some of hers.

"Who's your friend, Kel?"

"I don't think that is a good idea, Taras. At least not immediately.



"William Hawke, meet Sergeant Rachael Lee, a good friend of mine."

"Nice to meet you.  He held his hand out to shake.  My friends just call me Hawke.  How are your people doing?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:26, Mon 30 July 2012.

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 105):

"Rachel's fine. Glad to meet you, Hawke."

She shook his hand, smiling.

"We're short of everything. HQ has been promising resupply but they have their problems."

"You guys can stand down here, honestly. No one's gonna take a shot at you. We haven't had any attacks here, crime in the camps is still low but we can't be everywhere at once."

Within the half hour, Tremblay and Mac arrived in the team's Humvee.

They'd scavenged what supplies (food, medical and water) they could spare from the team's stores and cajole, beg and steal from the New West militia and police. The RCMP at the roadblock out on Kind George directed them into the Skytrain parking lot where the rest of the team waited by the Cougar, talking to Rachel.

She outlined what was around. There were currently over five thousand refugees in this camp alone. It wasn't the only one established along the river.

The staff were sequestered in a small compound next to the station consisting of a series of tents. Apparently, trailers, fencing and portable sheds were on order but had yet to arrive. What supplies they had were being secured in a large U-Haul van parked beside the clinic tent. Water was available from the Skytrain station, and a small generator trailer parked next to the building chugged away. Staffing at the main camp consisted of several dozen volunteers and a half-dozen RCMP auxiliaries.

Medical staff was a volunteer doctor from Royal Columbian, a couple nurses and technicians. Currently, there was a fair line-up outside the clinic, a large tent. The people were orderly, enjoying the sunlight.

Wayne will dismount, but remain near the Cougar.  He will casually evaluate the status of the camp's mechanical infrastructure from his position: vehicles, permanent and temporary structures, generators, clean water, latrines, etc.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 107):

"Chief, any reason I can't go lend a hand at the Clinic?  Looks like they're a wee off from having a good day."

Hawke

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 107):

Darek decided it would be better if he stayed on the Cougar's main gun while the others explored.

Rachel, there must be some sort of leadership in the camp...Do you think we can talk to their boss

"Sure, that would be Jodi. She's out in the camp right now, talking to people. Want to go now?"

GM Note: I guess Javier accidentally missed the request by Hawke to visit the clinic. I don't see why Taras would refuse, so I'll say he gave his assent.


Camp infrastructure seemed to be courtesy of the Canadian Red Cross (CRC) and the City of New Westminster (New West).

After Taras gave his assent, Hawke visited the clinic tent. He recognised the doctor, Dr. Gus Brady, from Royal Columbian. Finishing up with his patient, "Dr. Gus" welcomed Hawke. "Hawke! Great to see you. We just got in this morning. Should get a load of supplies and equipment today or tomorrow."

From where he stood in the Skytrain station parking lot, there wasn't a lot to see of the camp's infrastructure. There was a nearby generator, but the real solution would be to hook them up to New West's city supply. (Currently a defected Soviet nuclear submarine tied up at the dock just across the river, soon to be supplemented and then replaced by the almost-online Burrard Hydro plant.) Vehicles were civilian, mainly trucks, and a couple RCMP police cars. Housing was problematic, mostly tents and shacks constructed the past week on the parking lot. There was plenty of abandoned housing available but the authorities had their reasons for building the camp here. There were some portable latrines visible, and some of the tents looked like additional latrines and showers. As well, cook and mess tents were being constructed.

Water was impossible to tell. Like New West, Surrey was fed from the Coquitlam reservoir. Even without filtration the water was exceptionally pure, the watershed being glacier-fed. New West had occasional boil warnings when the bacterial count rose too high. Water pressure was maintained by gravity, even without electricity there would be water from taps. This area was recently under flood waters so the mains would need to be flushed, Wayne saw a City of New Westminster engineering crew a ways off working at a manhole and guessed that's what they were doing.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:54, Tue 31 July 2012.

Darek got a chill when he saw the Soviet nuclear submarine. It reminded him of his previous life and all the pains he took to get away from it. He slew the turret in the other direction, choosing to focus on something else.

Upon being given permission to move out on his own, Hawke went back to the Cougar and grabbed his medic bag.

"Nice to see you again, Doc.  Need a hand?  You've got a long line outside."

Absolutely! Lets go!

The situation around the camp was peaceful enough to dissolve the team partially and approach the locals at ease. Darek was taking care of the vehicle and showing the flag. The makeshift hospital was being visited and help offered by Hawke and that left the constables enough room to maneuver towards the leadership of the camp to address the more pressing concerns.

We have a lot to offer to the people in the camp through the IRON program. That could distract us from our more "military" affairs but is a most necessary step to take. I guess things may turn up on the peaceful side for a while but we must keep our eyes open for all the scum infiltrated. For now, lets try to make sure we can open lines of communication between the UBC and, what her name...Jodi?

Kelsey followed Hawke and Rachel to the medic tent, her rifle finally slung and looking at ease, if still vigilant.

"I guess show me around a little.  Anyone need some small repairs, wiring help, something like that?"

Hawke easily pitched in beside Dr. Gus. His efforts were appreciated. This was kind of the "first wave" at the new clinic but at a certain point things would calm down some.

"Jodi" welcomed any offer of help. She was waiting for promised New West militia to come and help secure the camp, as many of the people were concerned that bikers or criminals could pretty much roll in and loot what little they had (not to mention their stockpiled supplies) despite the half-dozen Mounties that currently provided protection. This may or may not be rational but it was certainly understandable.

Taras was surprised to learn the IRON program was well-known, and had already become standard procedure for dealing with the population. Jodi and her team had been contracted by the federal government through UBC to organise this camp and others like it. The necessary data collection was one of the first things they intended to do, so they knew how many people there were, their identities, history, needs and capabilities.

As for Kel, there was a million things to do with regards to camp setup.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 118):

Back at the Cougar, Cpl Sochacki watched Wayne, who stayed at the Cougar with him. Both men being the same rank, he felt comfortable talking to him as an equal now that the others weren't around.

"What do you think, Wayne?" he asked the man, trying to gauge not only by his answer but by his reaction and his demeanor, whether to adopt a more friendly 'unbuttoned' approach to the new role as sentry he currently found himself in.

Wayne will turn to peer up at the turret and its occupant.  Shrugging, he replies, "Seems like everything is running fairly smoothly.  The water's good, and that's the most important thing."

In reply to Wayne Lo (msg # 120):

Water, Dariusz Sochacki thought. Wayne was right. It couldn't BE more important. Darek remembered how impressed he was with Canadian water when he first arrived to the country. Even then, he took it for granted when there was easy electricity and people lived a 'normal' existence, free from radiation.

Taking a cue from Wayne, Cpl Sochacki unbuttoned the turret, rubbed his eyes, and took a look around.

Jodi. can we take a look at your paper work regarding the census? I'm interested to know what kind of people live here.

Only 6 months ago Vancouver and surroundings were boasting as little as 12,000 souls. The surprisingly fast recovery engineered by the people behind IRON program allowed this number to increase thanks to the organized steps including security and development of affected areas. Taras was surprised to find that the camp contained around 5,000 people. The proximity of the US border was a clear clue but he wanted to confirm the data. Relocating canadian citizens was easy task compared to the effort needed to deal with foreigners.

We have plenty of communities across the Fraser river that would be willing to help. Canadian hospitality is well known worlwide. If we can reduce the number of people in this camp we'll be probably easier to enhance the living conditions. Security is another serious concern. This can be more quickly managed. New Westminster can provide forces. Even the Government can temporarily hire some help from other places. I will focus in reducing the size and improving the security of the camp for the time being. What do you think?

Taras didn't have much experience as Jodi but the previous months in the city taught him a few lessons. Return to normalcy required a solid approach in terms of consolidation of the Law Enforcement first and reduction of the number of people displaced to create a positive osmosis in the city. Again, the census will probably show enoguh statistical data to figure out the best approach to deal with the problem.

Kelsey gladly made herself busy helping out as many people as she could with repairs she could accomplish with what she had on her.  Even stringing a little electrical if she can find suitable wire.

She would also show around a picture of her sisters and father (possibly herself in it as well) to see if anyone had seen them.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:16, Wed 01 Aug 2012.

She showed him the admin tent. A staffer laboured at an ancient Macintosh computer, circa early 90's,

"The people here are mostly refugees from along the river. We estimated that between fifty and a hundred thousand people lived there before the flood, many are displaced now. Some Americans, about 20%. Call it a thousand."



"That would really help! this is one of about five similar-sized camps that have sprung up in the last week. There's also a larger one near Sapperton in New West, about ten thousand, next stop for me."

GM Note: many of you are aware of the main refugee camp in New West, although you have no idea it's grown so large. Hawke almost certainly has volunteered there, Kel's been through looking for her family. It's run fairly well, but there's a criminal undercurrent (mainly black marketeering with a side order of drugs and prostitution) that the hard-pressed New West PD haven't seem to have much luck in eradicating. Rumour has it that the HAs or other bikers have paid off people in the New West city government to allow them to conduct business in the camp.



"Both developments would be welcome! You'd need to find a place for the people, of course. There is a lot of abandoned housing in and around New West, city officials have been dragging their heels citing security. Not just the issue of letting refugees settle within their security perimeter, but how to keep them safe outside it in the areas of Burnaby and Coquitlam nearest New West. A lot more in Surrey, of course.

"There's some truth to that, and I think they're waiting for the federal government to step in and start dealing with the problem so they don't have to, which of course they are obviously doing, as evidenced by your presence."
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:09, Thu 02 Aug 2012.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 123):

Kel was kept busy, mainly stringing up lights that (eventually) would have electricity from across the river.

The natural beauty of the area was stunning, to Darek. There were forested mountains all around, mainly to the north and east. Southeast, he could just see a large snow-covered mountain peak in the distance. It was much easier to see now than during the war, as there was no airborne pollution.

The immediate area was not too bad, defensively. Vehicles approaching down Scott Hill to the east would be stopped at the roadblock on Scott Road, the bridge and river meant the west was relatively secure, and the north was blocked off by the bridge approach. To the south, the wide flat area along the river was still debris-choked from several massive auto-wrecker and lumber yards that were recently flooded. Of course, attackers on foot or motorcycles could approach from almost any angle if they had the time.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 125):

In an effort to make good use of the time, Darek cross-checked the terrain features on his map with what he saw out of the open turret hatch of the Cougar in an effort to familiarize himself with the surrounding terrain.

Jodi, my guess is that we have to downsize the camp as much as we can. Rachel can bring this concern to the government at UBC. Our tasks are mostly security related, of course. We can set up a defensive perimeter and deploy a mixed force of militia and volunteers to man the entry and police the place, etc.

There is also a serious concern regarding the "Hell's Angels". I'm going to need as much as information regarding their activities in order to match our presence and future missions in this side of the river...

Taras left the final words lingering in the air so Jodi would have some time to think about the better ways to respond to the intel demand regarding the Hell's Angels. It will take a lot of homework mostly based in time consuming interviews with locals but in his experience this always paid off handsomely in the past.

Do you have anything to drink around here? I'm damn thirsty.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 127):

"Yeah, Rachel's been a great help, she'll know who to talk to in order to get things moving."

She poured him a plastic cup of water.

"Here you go, filtered until the water situation is sorted out. We haven't had a chance to ask about the bikers. Three Hells Angels came around driving a van when we first arrived, one named "Stewart" offered his club's help and left some supplies. I kind of brushed him off, not wanting to get in too deep with criminal elements, because that's the last thing the people here need. He said to talk to them up the hill if I wanted more help and they haven't been back since."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 123):

Kel asked around, a lot, but no one seemed to have heard about her family.

On the plus side, she did get a considerable portion of the lighting sorted out!

Kelsey is glad to spread the word, and is happy to get lighting close to done, she'll stay longer if allowed to finish what she can today.

Jodi, this is what I can do for you in terms of security for the camp...

Sgt. Shevchenko brought up a piece of paper and start writing a few notes:

For what I have seen from the highway the camp should have a security element based on a company size unit.

Taras wasn't sure how much of a military terms Jodi was aware of so he basically went to explain the meaning of the words.

A company unit could be something around one hundred people or so for our needs. The company is divided in three smaller parts or platoons. My intention is to fill the ranks with volunteers from the camp and each platoon and the company will be commanded by militia leaders and RCMP members. The leaders will provide also the training needed. They will carry the firearms so there is no need, for now, to arm the volunteers.

The three platoons will alternate active duty like sentries and patrols. The first platoon will conduct access control to the camp while the second one does the patrols inside and also around the perimeter. They also respond, initially, any emergency. The third platoon is off and then they rotate on a few days basis.

All of this was schematically drawn in the paper and passed onto to Jodi.

One more thing. Another company needs to be formed. There is no need for that many people. This one is for the vehicles. The camp will need a few of them. Police, ambulance and fire department. They will go all of them under the same umbrella and the personnel will be drivers and mechanics in a rotation as well. As with the security people I expect that most of them could be extracted from the locals and being commanded by a small cadre from New Westminster for logistical support.

Taras jotted down this information as well.

At this point I cannot guarantee what kind and number of vehicles are available but our current infrastructure is quite capable and they will be loaned on a limited time while the situation gets sorted out.

The ukrainian finished the glass of filtered water. It wasn't too bad. He surely missed a cold "Slavutich". He intended to take a closer look at the camp facilites but wanted also to take a little rest and he lighted a cigarette. The rest of the team would be probably busy helping around.

Is funny that the Hell's Angels want to be so helpful around. That is not a bad thing, actually. Perhaps we can have a little chat with them as well...

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 131):

The woman's eyes went a little unfocused as Taras got going.

"Uh, I'm very sorry, defense isn't my area of expertise. I'm afraid I won't be of much help!"

Over the day, Rachel made a few calls, following up on Taras' ideas. The team was free to help out as desired. Wayne's skills were in demand, and even Darek knew a thing or two about construction. Andy was a little more at loose ends but at least could help the local Mounties keep watch.

There was good news and bad. CF command wanted a more centralised training effort for militia and RCMP auxiliaries, but they agreed to send recruiters around to the different camps. There were a certain amount of small arms, but more would be coming in about a month or so.

On the more positive side, resettlement of abandoned parts of the city was something they were excited about. Utilities and civil services were coming along nicely, and while having displaced people in camps made some things more centralised it also made normalisation more difficult.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 133):

"Wayne" Darek said, deciding to change his mind, "I think I'll go find Staff Sergeant Shevchenko and see if there's any help I can lend."

After that, Cpl Sochacki got out of the Cougar and went to find where the rest of his team had gone.

Taras smiled sweetly to Jodi as she appeared to be looking confused, and perhaps a little bit scared, dealing with security matters. This usually ran opposed to her area of expertise in humanitarian help. In Jodi's case probably "beans and bullets" didn't run together or at least not in the same logistics truck!

Don't worry, we will take good care of the camp. Our time here is almost finished. We have to return soon to our headquarters and continue with our duties. I wish we had more time...

Never too far from him, the weathered leather satchel of the ex Soviet Officer was unfolded to produce yet another piece of paper.

There is something more that I will like to ask for. I hope you will find the right people to answer these questions.

Buried among the paperwork of previous missions Taras finally found what he wanted. Certain memories came across his mind. He remembered Josh, a brave young man that came forward to help the Government once...

Here it is!

This is a series of questions about the Hell's Angels. Please, see if you can find information about it from the people in the camp. Whenever you are ready just let me know and I will send somebody, or I'll come myself for it...


====================================================================================

a) Where are the Hell Angels located? Have they any prisoners with them?
 b) What are the shortcomings being experienced by the HA in their violent campaign?
 c) What is the HA operational and political planning?
 d) What are the HA numbers, organisation, deployments, training, weapons and communications means?
 e) How are the relations with the undergrounders and other communities?
 f) What is the magnitude of involvement of the HA against other communities including plans against UBC?
 g) What is the HA morale like? How are the conditions in their bases?
 h) What are the HA's intelligence network details and priorities for operations against other citizens?

====================================================================================

After handing out the questions to Jodi, the ukrainian summoned the rest of the team via radio:

All Bravo units return to vehicle. Over.

There would be a few minutes left. Staff Sargent Shevchenko thanked again the hospitality offered by the people in the camp and promised to keep in touch as soon as possible. He understood that the team could be helpful to secure the place as the current camp management didn't have much experience in that field. In return, Taras hoped to gather intel as well as a supporting base in the camp for future operations. Outside, a bunch of children playing around caught the attention of the man in uniform and seemed to be in awe at the sight of the weapons he was carrying. A seemingly older kid pointed at the AKS-74U:

That's a russian piece of shit, I like M-16, PEW,PEW,PEW!

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 135):

She took the list and smiled sweetly back, obviously feeling patronised for no apparent reason.

"Sure, I'll be happy see if people know anything."

Kelsey heard Taras transmission and chuckled, replying.

"Roger that, Fox Six."

She did a last twist on some wire and instruction, then headed towards the vehicle in a better mood.  She came up on Taras as the older child was stating his opinion.



"M-16 is American shit.  Buy Canadian."  She grins at the kid and taps her shouldered carbine.  "C-8, kids.  Battle proven."

She grins and hurries to the Cougar.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 135):

"Let me get cleaned up, and I'll be along."

Hawke finished with his patient, and washed up.  Picking up his rifle, he headed back to the Cougar where the rest of the team was waiting.

Wayne nods, looks the Cougar over once more, and follows Darek.

Taras waited for all the time to get together before issuing the parting orders.

The team arrived safe and sound to their base in New Westminster. The school was decently arranged and provided a cozy place to come back after a fruitful day on the field. The Staff Sargent gave the troops a few minutes to decompress before the debriefing. As usual, this would take in a classroom well provided with refreshments for a leisure, winding down time.

First I will like to welcome again the new members of the team and congratulate everybody for a great job done today.

Today we opened the bridge for heavy traffic and now we have the support personnel on site to provide security for this important location. We became familiar with our new vehicle and radio equipment. We also conducted some basic drills to great effectiveness. Lets not forget the importance of training and keeping the skills sharp!

We visited the camp and I guess we made a good impression showing the flag and offering all the help that we can offer. I did have an interview with the leader and hopefully important Intel regarding the Hell's Angels will be provided.

He made a pause to get a drink. A window was open and cigarettes passed along.

Regrettably I've been called by the Government in Vancouver Island and I will be away for a few days. In the meantime I have a few set of missions that you will be entrusted with.

Kelsey: I need you to put the Hell's Angels location under radio surveillance. Actually, anything that emits across the river would be of interest. As usual we'll need frequencies and know what they are up to. This should go for at least 48 to 72 hours. You have the equipment and also the authority to recruit the personnel you may need.

Taras turned his attention to Andy:

Sniper team! We need ears and also eyes on the Hell Angels place...

You and MacDonald are tasked with a 48 hours infiltration to keep watch over the Hell Angels. Total discretion. We need to know their numbers, movements, etc. You are free to select your gear and transportation methos within our capabilities. You'll be reporting encrypted to Kel at your convenience. I want at least 4 reports daily...

It was the turn for the rest of the members of the team:

Darek, Wayne, Tremblay and Hawke: You'll be the assigned crew for the Cougar and basically become the Quick Reaction Force if something too serious happens in the camp. You are to visit them again and fell free to conduct recce around the area steering clear of the Hells Angels. Is important to know the surroundings. Darek, you are in charge this time as commander of the vehicle. Again, you will report encrypted to Kelsey.

I will be back hopefully in three days. I wish you luck as much as I trust your judgment. After all the intel that we expect to gather is in our hands we will be in a better position to confront the enemy.

That's all for now. I'm sorry I cannot take questions right now as my ship will depart very early in the morning. Further guidance could be obtained from Belanger but as a team commander all my authority is delegated to Kelsey, our brave warrior.

Gentlemen, I will see you soon.

Taras left the room and drove his jeep towards UBC.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:35, Sat 11 Aug 2012.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 141):

Cpl Sochacki began talking even before Staff Sergeant Scevchenko left the room.

"Andy, MacDonald, I would like to be in your general AO so that if you need support or a disctaction, we will be there for you" he said, addressing the sniper team.

"Wayne, Tremblay, and Hawke, I want that Cougar as light as possible" he said, turning to his crew. "A lighter vehicle means a faster vehicle, so the minimum gear only, ok?"

"Kelsey, you are our ears an we will be your eyes" he said, speaking to the female communications expert. "I want back up frequencies disseminated to all operators in the area just in case the encryption in the radios go down and we have to translate in the red. Any idea on adjacent or supporting units in the area? The more friendlies around, the better our chances of relaying a message through someone in an emergency siuation."

"Alright you guys, listen to me" the Polish man said in a quiet voice to his crew when they got outside. "I know I am not from here but I will do my best to get us through and to accomplish our goals. When we're out there and you have a suggestion, let me hear it. However when I make a decision, just do what I say. I'd rather make a bad decision than none at all, so just know that my main intention is to return safe, the second is to protect the Cougar, and the third is to accomplish our stated mission goals. Clear?"

"Sure, Taras.  I will have my team on the ball.  We'll set up some directional antenna to specify over the bridge and I should have a setup for full triangulation up soon.  Ari is my primary radio operator at this point anyway, but I have a backup, and myself to run things."

She blinks a moment at Darek, then chuckles, grinning widely.

"Darek, let me handle the comms, it is taken care of. Your vehicle has two radios, and I will be sending Mac and Andy out with a radio each."

She turns back to Taras  "Taras, I might suggest you add me to the reaction force.  I'm infantry before comms, and good at it.  I have people to watch the commo and worked with this team on that reaction force before."
This message was last edited by the player at 14:48, Sat 11 Aug 2012.

In reply to Darek Sochacki (msg # 142):

"Define minimum gear.  You take away my first aid kit, and all I am is a shooter.  With it, I'm an Emergency Room."

Kelsey makes a bit of a sour face then nods firmly "Right.  What use is a medic without his kit, other than as a shooter.  Take what you need, nothing you carry is heavy, it just takes up space.  You know what you need, you make the decisions, Hawke."

"Thanks for the comms," Andy said to Kelsey.

"OK," Andy said, "our orders are to set up an Obs on the HA base in this area. We'll start off with Mac and I doing a stealthy foot patrol of the area around it. The Cougar will drop us off about five klicks from the base and remain in a hidden position to support us should we need it. Mac and I will scout the area and set up an OP."

"Once we have an OP set up, we'll contact the Cougar and either get it to stay where it is or advise it on a better position to relocate too." Andy explained, "Once we're ready we'll conduct the OBS and then get out with the INTEL."

He looked over at the Polish vehicle commander, "That'll be pretty boring for you guys: if you have a better use for the vehicle, chip in."


"OK," And concluded, "observations and suggestions?"

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 144):

"Right, take what you need" Cpl Sochacki said to the medic. "I just meant that any extra vehicle gear should be left behind to make it light and give us enough room inside to do our jobs effectively."

He looked over at the Polish vehicle commander, "That'll be pretty boring for you guys: if you have a better use for the vehicle, chip in."



"If it were up to me, I would use us in a more aggressive role" Darek Sochacki said, speaking to Andy. "I don't give a damn what pre-war borders they think they have. The reality is that we have to deal with their lack of troop presence in the area. To my mond, that means we push south and create more of a buffer zone for us."

"Darek, we are taking a look at the Hell's Angels, not rogue US troops.  I suppose there is a possibility that they are intermingled, though.  But that is what we are going to check out."  Kelsey chides softly.

She seems to think a little and pulls out a map, looking at it a moment.

"Darek, you are a ready reaction force.  Remember that being in an armored vehicle does not provide safety.  In fact, it can be a death trap.  It's better to have you ready to react and be a threat than to provoke reaction.  I assure you they have some form of Anti-tank weaponry.'

She takes a breath and points at the refugee camp on the map "Stay close to here, ready to react.  It will put you pretty close.  Andy, you are better off heading out on foot from there, or the insertion will be too obvious.  They probably have us out-manned and probably out gunned.  I want everyone coming back from this, and that means not asking for trouble.  This is a sneak and peek, not an assualt."

"OK," Andy agreed, "we'll insert on foot and radio in a suitable laager point for the Cougar when we find one. As for the Americans: we'll deal with them if we meet them but we're not going looking for trouble. I want us to maintain a focus on the operation. That doesn't mean we wear blinkers but it does mean that we don't clutter up the OP with a bunch of secondary and tertiary actions. Mac and I will insert stealthily, we'll watch the HA for a few days and gather INTEL and then we'll exfiltrate to the Cougar laager and ride home in style."

Andy smiled, if that was how the OP actually went down he'd be very surprised, but it was sensible not to over-complicate it from the very beginning.

Kelsey nods and then adds

"I want a radio check in from you two every four hours.  More if you wish.  Keep it short and I recommend you move after doing it, if possible."

She looks to Darek and at the others a moment before nodding decisively "I'm going to keep a jeep hot and probably stay at the refugee camp.  I have a radio crew for here.  Can we spare one for an infantry jeep attachment from your crew?  I can see if we can kill two birds and get a jeep ambulance."

The team got loaded up for the recce at the base.

RCMP contacts with the local police provided some information. The biker bar is appropriately known as "Angel's". It is not thought to be an actual HA hangout, it's mainly a gathering place for their "shadow" clubs like the Renegades and Jesters. Now that all the "puppet" clubs have been absorbed in the HA consolidation that started last month, the status of the club has changed.

https://maps.google.com/maps/m...pn=0.065629,0.110378

Additional HA-linked areas include the Jester's old club house near the refugee camp. On the flats by the river, it was flooded out and abandoned. RCMP investigators went through there but were unable to find any evidence or intelligence. It's unknown where they were located now. Other spots included "Angels Motors" and the nearby "Gus's Shop" (both selling motorcycle and motorcycle accessories) on King George. Both had been closed down after the Hells Angels were declared a "Criminal Organisation" at the start of the war. (The Charter of Rights sure took a beating!)

GM Note: Okay, so I've marked the bar. Any particular foot route or drop-off point? You can go up the hill through backyards and forest but you will come to the more developed strip near the top of the hill. As you can see, it's only a klick or so from the refugee camp.

"OK," Andy said after looking at the map, "I'd suggest that Mac and I make a loop to the south west until we pick up the forested ribbon just south of 88th Avenue. From there we'll keep to the undergrowth and work our way east to the Brookside Elementary school. That's within 300-400ms of the target building and it looks as if it is two to three stories tall. We might get decent LOS from there: if not we'll move forward to the woods just in front of the bar. Any observations?"

In reply to Andrew Montgomery McRae (msg # 153):

Hawke picked up his usual bag of supplies and another bag of essentials, such as IV fluids and meds, and found a spot with the Cougar.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 151):

Even though Kelsey was a woman, she was senior. In Darek's experience, that meant doing what you were told and not thinking of the consequences...a very Polish trait.

"As you wish, Sergeant" Cpl Sochacki said with a thich accent.

Wayne looks a bit unsettled at this comment by Kelsey, but keeps his mouth shut.

"We can do the entire op from the Cougar if need.  Andy, it's best if you don't tip off that you were watching them, I have a feeling that riding back in style might not be the best choice.  Also, if we set ourselves in a camp at the refugee area and act like we are not waiting for you, that might be better.  This idea of us laying halfway ignores that there are a lot of folks around here who are probably watching us, whether for the HA or not."


She pulls out the map and indicates the location of the camp "Better the Cougar group acts like were are security and relief, getting to know the populace and spread good will while the sniper team slips out quietly from elsewhere and does the whole game on the hoof.  Of course we will be ready to respond within minutes, but anything else might be too obvious.  What do you think?"

"We'll only use the Cougar for exfiltration if we are in trouble," Andy said, "otherwise we'll leave by foot. We'll also be infiltrating by foot, the initial route will be a loop west hugging the scrub between the built up area and the river margin. From there we'll scout through the city and cross King George so that we put the Scotiabank building between us and the HAs. We'll head to the Scotiabank and set up an OP there."

Cpl Sochacki listened to the group as they decided the best way to use the Cougar. To his Polish mind, it seemed a waste to use the vehicle as a glorified pick up truck. However he knew he was an outsider, and he didn't really know how to say what was in his mind, so he kept quiet and said nothing.

Soon, the team deployed the Cougar to the refugee camp. As well, a section of militia was now redeployed there, the most that the Vancouver Garrison could spare at this time.

They took the Humvee (as they couldn't all fit comfortably inside on the way there) and left it parked it by the Skytrain station. It was armed with the M240, and the RCMP or militia there to guard the camp could borrow it if needed.

Mac and Andy headed for their OP on the Scotiabank building.

GM Note: Andy, give me an Easy (+2) Stealth to move in unobserved, then an AWA check on the target at 375m.

Andy and Mac moved quietly through the undergrowth and deserted buildings. The stole through the ruins of the city and headed toward the building they had selected for their OP.


10:47, Today: Andrew Montgomery McRae rolled 4 using 2d20, keeping the lowest dice only with rolls of 19,4. Awareness roll TN9.
10:47, Today: Andrew Montgomery McRae rolled 12 using 4d20, keeping the lowest dice only with rolls of 12,19,18,12. Stealth roll TN 12.

Kelsey got everyone together before they readied to deploy.

"Ok Here we go.  Me and Hawke will standby with the hummer.

Hawke, can you use the 240?


We will be the ambulance and support.


Darek, you will command the Cougar team element.  Here are our call signs."


Andy - Juliet One
Mac - Juliet Two

Darek - Romeo One
Wayne - Romeo Two
Tremblay - Romeo Three
Kelsey - Romeo Six
Hawke - Romeo Seven

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 162):

"I can figure it out."

"I have some experience with that sort of weapon, do you?"

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 164):

It turned out that Hawke was familiar enough with the M240, also known as the C6 in Canadian service or L7 GPMG in British Service. Not an expert but familiar enough as a gunner.

Mac and Andy made it to their OP without being seen. For the rest of the day they stayed and observed the comings and going. They saw many bikers, but no patches. (A log was prepared, photographs taken via telephoto lens.) These were hangers-on, the formerly independent clubs that had been recently absorbed into the Angels. It was odd that they weren't wearing the 2 patches of new recruits (the logo, plus the HELLS ANGELS name, but no location).

Rachel had explained that the 3rd and last patch would be awarded only when they became full members. (Lesser clubs weren't allowed to have 3 patches themselves, that was a right that the HAs reserved for themselves. Shadow or puppet clubs could have a logo, or a logo and name for close allies, but not a logo, name and location.

Overall, about forty bikers came and went from the club, and it seemed about ten or so were staying at the Flamingo Motor Hotel above the club. Smoking and drinking on the balconies. About fifty or so other people came and went, several looked like dealers or prostitutes. The former didn't stay too long. Vehicles were mostly bikes but there were vans, SUVs, pickups and one luxury car.

Just after dark, a couple bikers peeled out of the parking lot. Instead of heading up King George, or off into the surrounding neighborhoods, they roared down the hill towards the refugee camp.

"This is Juliet One to Romeo Six," And spoke into the radio as he saw the bikers leaving, "Be advised there are two bikers leaving the target and heading in your direction. Destination not confirmed but I'm guessing they're heading for you."

Kelsey did some work around camp, but tried to get some rest as the team was scouting, there were some loose ends for her to tie up, some rather literally when it came to camp electricity.

She heard the radio and did a quick reply "This is Romeo Six.  I copy two Hotel Alphas inbound."

She quickly informed the whole base team, making sure Darek wasn't going to be pointing the turret gun at the HA's.  She made herself visible near their HMMWV, doing a regular maintenance inspection.

"Try to act casual folks, though by all means watch them.  Hawke let Sergeant Lee know as well, please.  Darek, you can be in the turret if you wish, I just ask you don't point that gun around right now."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 164):

"Feel free, I'll drive, then."

"Hawke, do you or do you not know what you are doing on that 240?"

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 169):

"I have used one before."

OOC:  I don't know a 240 from a letter opener, I haven't even had the chance to look it up on google today.  I have no military experience.  That's why I didn't pop right up and say what I know and what I don't know.  I'm an IT guy who's a fireman/EMT, in the US.  I'm flailing away at pretending to be a Special Boats Squadron equivalent of a ParaJumper.  Hell, I know more about parajumpers because I read about them on the internet than I do about SBS guys.

--Jim R

Kelsey watches Hawke for a few long moments, thinking about the last mission and how hollow Hawke has been since it went down.  He wasn't fooling any of the vets, she knew he was walking wounded of a pyschological kind.

She smiles then says softly "Sorry Bill.  Let me do the shooting, if it comes to that.  You do some driving, and I will take over if we have to haul wounded.  The back deck of the Humvee should be good space for wounded, right?  Why don't you make it as ready as you can, ok?"

She offers her right hand, outstretched, for a shake."You worry about fixing folks, I'll worry about hurting them.  Deal?"

"And if you ever want to talk, come find me, ok?  I'm the reigning queen of shell shock."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 171):

The roar of the twin motorcycles grew louder as the bikers rolled down the hill. They could actually see them shooting along the downhill curve, due to the slope of the hill.

Warning was passed along to the local garrison of militia and RCMP Auxiliaries to make ready for a potential threat.

They approached the roadblock on 128th st, which was held by a half-dozen Mounties. Instead of stopping, they both pulled a U-turn, roaring down a side road, heading south, paralleling the eastern edge of the camp. They looked like they were scoping out the camp, and the new vehicles that were there.

From up on the hill, Andy and Mac couldn't see the camp, the slope of the hill worked against them, as did the trees and scattered buildings.

Kelsey popped up in the ring of the HMMWV to get a better vantage point and watched the motorcycles move, her lips pressing into a thin line for a few moments.

"Pretty brazen, aren't they?"

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 173):

"They are" Cpl Sochacki agreed with the Sergeant. "Maybe we can use that to our advantage. If they do their recon by bike, then they will always make noise and probably won't try to sneak in by foot."

In reply to Darek Sochacki (msg # 174):

"Or maybe it is a distraction"

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 175):

"Good point" Darek agreed. "Should we radio someone and let them know we observed a possible probe?"

In reply to Darek Sochacki (msg # 176):

"Not yet.  I am sure Ari is monitoring the net, though."

It seemed they were just doing a ride-by to see what would happen.

The bikers rode down 128 St, turned down 110 Ave past the camp.

After slowing down to cruise by the camp, the bikers sped up and then disappeared to the south. It was uncertain whether they'd seen the Humvee and/or Cougar. Both vehicles were under camo nets but a sharp eye would be able to pick them out.

Once past the camp, they rode along Scott Rd, then turned up Old Yale Rd/108 Ave to return back to the Flamingo.

http://goo.gl/maps/hD8lD

About five-ten minutes later, Andy and Mac heard what sounded like the bikes climbing up the hill behind them on 108 Ave.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:30, Thu 23 Aug 2012.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 171):

"No problem.  Can I get 10 minutes to grab some extra supplies from the hospital, since we're going back out to the camp?"

There wasn't any problem in getting medical supplies, and Hawke soon found himself back at the camp. He was behind the wheel, watching as a couple of bikers rolled by, checking them out.

Both bikers were young (in their 20's) and wore sunglasses, had short hair and were relatively fit. One was clean-shaved, the other a neat beard. One wore a leather jacket and the other a denim vest over a black T-shirt, with no patches on either. Neither seemed openly armed.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 178):

"Why I'm not allowed to just use the coax on them I'll never know" Cpl Sochacki mused aloud as he watched the two noisy motorcycles rocket past his position. "Would save a lot of hassle in the long run."

In reply to Darek Sochacki (msg # 181):

The bikers disappeared out of sight down Scott road, then they heard them climbing up the hill via 108 Ave (not King George).

Kelsey Radio-ed the field team.

"This is Romeo Six to Juliet.  I have no more Hotel Alphas.  Over.

Luckily, she was not close to Darek so she could not talk to him about why they just don't kill who they think might need it.

"Roger that Romeo Six," Andy confirmed, "will remain on station and see what we can see."

In reply to Andrew Montgomery McRae (msg # 184):

There wasn't much to see.

The bikers rode up 108, coming up the hill in plain view. They passed under the Skytrain station and tracks that formed the base of the Scotiabank building where they were hidden.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 185):

Looking though the spotting scope as they approached, Mac grunted. "Huh. Bet those fuckers are ex-military, what do want to lay odds?"

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 180):

As William came out of the medical building, he saw the bikers ride by, and gave them a nod of the head in recognition.  These guys had no patches, which may not mean anything, but if they wanted to talk to someone about what was going on in the motorcycle club, it wouldn't hurt to acknowledge their existence.

"That should be the last of it," he said as he closed the back door to the Hummer.

The bikers returned to the motel.

As night fell, a generator was fired up and lights came on in the building. There were no further incidents of note that night. Most of the bikers took off after partying most of the night, driving away between 0000-0300 hours that evening.

OOC: For the next 3 days I assume the OP team will stay on-site and Charlie Oscar (Continue Observation), while the backup will wait at the camp?

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 188):

Cpl Sochacki took care and maintenance of the Cougar seriously. He spent as much time as he could checking systems and subsystems and learning as much as he could from any tech people that were assigned to its maintenance.

OOC:  That's the plan.  Get the folks to pitch in, run a gaurd watch so that someone is in a turret or ring at all times.  Kelsey would 'hull down' the HMMWV, but she likes having an OP (Observation Post).

Unless Maintenance came across the river with them, Kelsey seems to be pretty knowledgable about vehicles in general, possibly causing Darek to suspect she was either REMF (Rear Echelon) Radio Operator, or Commo.  He is seeing her do a lot of mechanical, electrical, and electronic helping with the local populace so it seems a likely conclusion that she was a support person prior to the war, at least.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 190):

Cpl Sochacki watched the woman work, clearly impressed.

"...and you clamp it...where? There? What about...?" he continued, peppering the woman with questions attempting to learn all he could.

Andy settled himself down to some good old-fashioned observation, becoming the living epitome of his own personal motto, "Who stares, wins".

Kelsey would be glad to show Darek a few things, relating anecdotes from her military career as she went as examples.

"Back east, before the war, I didn't get much chance to drive.  Lots of walking, you know?  Anyway, we had a ride one time up out of the bush and that truck was having an issue similar to this, it needed a new battery clamp.  Well, those are in short supply in the bush and we didn't want to wait on the next ride whenever that was so I pitched in to help the driver.  Loosen the clamp and put anything between the post and the battery then tighten it back down, and it will help it hold.  Just make sure it's not gonna melt or burn, but in a pinch almost anything.  I used a screw loose from the decking on that beast and we were back in time for supper and beer that night."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 193):

The next couple days passed quickly.

At the refugee camp, the team helped out however they could. In the mean time, Darek maneuvered the Cougar so that it was hull down and able to interdict movement down King George as it wound down he hill to the west. He couldn't cover the entire hill, nor the south, due to the raised Skytrain tracks. The Humvee was positioned to cover the southern approach. Both were concealed from sight as much as possible using camo nets and local materials.

Mac and Andy were not discovered in their hide in the Scotiabank building. The third day of surveillance, they got lucky in the evening as the light was failing. A black SUV with tinted windows pulled up. Two full patch Hells Angels in got out, followed a moment later by a heavyset man in a leather bomber jacket (no patches). Looking around, they started to walk into the bar.

"Romeo Six, this is Julliet One," Andy said over the radio as he called his observations in, "be advised, two confirmed Hotel Alphas have arrived in a fancy SUV. They appear to be escorting an unconfirmed individual who acts and dresses as if he is a VIP. Observation continues, over."

In reply to Andrew Montgomery McRae (msg # 195):

"Well, well, well...." Mac looked through his spotters scope, alongside Andy.

"D'you recognise any of them?" Andy asked Mac.

In reply to Andrew Montgomery McRae (msg # 197):

Mac referenced the surveillance photos they'd been given by Belanger. The Russian pilot, Koldan, and the American paratrooper, Tyler, had been undercover for the last month, gathering information on the local HA and biker criminal organisation. They were posing as black market gun runners, which had led to the creation of a dossier on potential opponents.

"The Angel on the left, he looks a lot like Neil Taybor. The guy on the right, I bet he's Gary "Hitman" Summers. Both are tier 2 operators. The tubby guy in the jacket, he looks like Dave Pickton, the brother of the "Pig Farmer". Looks like we hit pay dirt!"

OOC: It occurred to me that other intelligence-gathering would have born useful fruit.

OOC:  I am assuming the information Mac gives is passed on the radio.

"This is Romeo Six, Roger Juliet One.  Standby."

Kelsey immediately alerts the team to (UNOBTRUSIVELY!) get ready for action, then radios HQ via relay to apprise them of the situation.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 199):

Wayne will stop whatever he was doing to take his post at the helm of the cougar.

Without alerting the local defence forces, the team went about saddling up. HQ replied, Clarke-Sullivan was unavailable but Belanger was filling in.

"Good work, we copy you have eyes-on high-value targets. Be advised, your instructions were to observe and make 4 reports per day for 48 hours. We've got your reports and your time is up when Taras is due back tomorrow."

GM Note: of course, you'd probably never say these things over the radio, unless it's a secure channel!

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 201):

Rachel walked up, carrying a file folder.

She noted the vehicles were warming up, and Kel was on the radio. "Going somewhere? I have those questionnaires you wanted me to hand around, regarding our friends on the hill."

"Give me just a minute Rae."  She smiled at her warmly then keyed the radio again.  "Understood Hotel Six.  Over."

She holds out a hand to Rachel and nods, smiling at her again. "You look them over yet?"

Shaking her head, Rachel flipped through the papers. "Sorry, not yet. Didn't see anything we didn't really know, but there are a few things we can follow up on."

"Want to go through them together?  I have time."

"Confirm we have eyes on the eight and ten of hearts as well as the Jack of Diamonds," Andy said over the radio after reminding himself of the codenames, "we are on Recon but should we contact base to see if these guys need picking up?"

he awaited a reply, hoping that they'd just stay on post rather than having to improvise another arrest operation.

"Negative, Juliet one.  We await Romeo eleven's return before we commence."  Taras, of course.

She looked uncertain.

"Sure... except you're warming up the vehicles? Plus the radio traffic. Something happening?"

Kelsey slowly nodded to that and tapped her earpiece.

"There is, and there isn't.  I might sit on the net, but I won't be likely going anywhere."

In reply to Wayne Lo (msg # 200):

"Wayne, watch those RPMs" Darek warned the driver without any arrogance. "Kelsey said the revs are a little high but should drop later. If not, let me know, OK?"

Rachel nodded. She'd been on the team so she understood how things worked, but still, she wasn't going to be satisfied with that.

"So what's going on then? I need to know. Not just for camp security, but for the safety of the local militia and Mountie Auxiliaries. Please, I appreciate you want to preserve operational security, but if you're going to be here then I need to be in the loop."

Kelsey motioned her into the HUMMWV and waited for her to close the door, just in case there were ears or eyes on them.  Kelsey went ahead and started it up, but they had been starting it or running the generator on a consistent basis to keep the base radio from draining the batteries.  "Mac and Andy are watching the HA camp.  The rest of us are just standing by in case we need to retrieve them."

She nodded in understanding.

"Okay, I really appreciate this information. Don't worry, it's cool. Let's have a look at the information."

Rachel motioned towards a picnic table. It was twilight, so an electric lamp was switched on and the generator in the Skytrain station started up.

Kel checked her earpiece off her portable and nodded, locking the main radio again if she will be out of sight of it.  She smiled to Rachel and seemed unsure a moment, watching her, before she nodded back.

"Sure, that sounds great, Rae."  She helped carry the forms over to the picnic table and started sorting through them with Rachel under the welcome artificial light, trying to skim through them for what seems pertinent or useful rather than read them word for word. "So, how's life these days?  Miss the team?"

"Aye," Wayne complied, half-turning his head as he answered so as to be heard by the vehicle commander.

<Is this a potential problem for the Cougar?  If so, Wayne will attempt to find a solution.>

"Oh, this is a little more what I expect in the way of policing, so in that sense it's better. Less action, plus I can date you now I'm no longer in the unit. I heard about the Pig Farm. Would have loved to be there. I'm still part of the regional ERT (police tactical team) so I imagine we'll cross paths professionally before too long."

She poured some precious coffee and helped collate the questionnaires.

The bikers entered the club. Night fell, with the usual beautiful dust-laden sunset over the western horizon.

A few hours later, a couple more bikers roared up, this time ones in full leathers. (One had an M16 assault rifle slung across his back.) They dismounted in the parking lot, said hello to the shotgun-armed bouncer and entered the club. A few minutes later, all five walked out and either got in the SUV or mounted up.


GM Note: Make a Mechanic check for Wayne to assist with tuning the engine. Anyone wanting to make a skill check for helping around camp can do so, I assume during "non-alert" periods.

"This is Juliett One to Romeo Six," Andy said over the radio, "be advised, the initial packet have been joined by two more jokers, we have had eyes on them before but no names. The whole package are now leaving the target."

Kelsey tilted her head and watched Rachel as she talked, a brow perking as more personal things tumbled out along with others.  She smiled widely and then set the paperwork down, turning to face her.  When they had been together before Rachel had stayed pretty much in the closet, and their relationship had been far from public.

"Date openly?  You are ready for that?"

As Rachel was about to reply Kelsey had to hold up a finger as her hand went to her ear to reflexively hold the earpiece a little closer, her face becoming more studied.

She keyed her mic and spoke softly into it.  "Roger Juliet, I copy." she motioned her head to the HMMWV and stuck her head into it, using the big radio to contact base.  "Hotel, this is Romeo Six, be advised that two jokers have joined our deck and are leaving the table.  Juliet is staying out of the party.  Over."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:29, Sat 08 Sept 2012.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 219):

Rachel smiled at her.

"Are you kidding? I'd love to be more open. Maybe I would have preferred not to, in the past, but now with the way things are, why wait?"

In reply to Zhang Rachel Lee (msg # 220):

The bikers and the SUV exited the parking lot, heading up 108 st. Deeper into Surrey, but east towards the valley and not south towards the US border.

Night had fallen. Mac and Andy watched the taillights disappear into the distance. Mac said that they were heading towards a part of Surrey known as "Guilford". There was a large shopping mall located there.

Hotel seemed satisfied at the progress, and if no attack was on offer the team was free to conclude the operation whenever they felt it was safe. Belanger said he expected Commander Clarke-Sullivan and Sgt. Shevchenko to return sometime the next morning.

Kelsey communicated the news from HQ to the sniper team.  "Juliet, this is Romeo.  Hotel says good work and advises that you can call the ball and come in from the cold."



Kelsey grins widely and takes one of Rachel's hands, meeting her eyes.  "I have always respected your wishes Rae.  Have you come out to anyone yet?  Do you want my help with that, it can be hard, and people can be judgemental.  I'm proud of you, and happy."

"Thanks for the offer!

"I've come out to the other Mounties. I think people on your team knew but we had to keep things undercover due to regs. As for my family, they're all gone. Maybe they're in Alberta, but with the slaughter of non-white refugees at the border... I'm not hopeful." She sighed. "There's still hope! Some other time, maybe after we link up with the forces coming down from Kamloops. They have a route east, I think.

"Anyways, you got your people coming in tonight or tomorrow morning. You're being deployed east into the valley, I hear, so maybe we can figure things out more after you're done there. Let's do that dinner before you leave..."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:07, Tue 11 Sept 2012.

"Roger that Romeo, put the kettle on," Andy secured his radio and said, "OK, let's go home."

"Coming in real soon Rae.  Wow, yeah I think people knew but were being polite before.  Feels a lot better that we can be open and honest, Uh... wow.  I think I'll have to sleep on it to make it feel real, or something."




Kelsey grins and replies on the radio "Roger that Juliet!  I'll try to round up some hot grub for you too."  She radios hotel real quick next "Hotel, this is Romeo six, Juliet is coming home."

She looks back to Rachel  "Make that now.  Let's see if we can put together some hot chow and hot chocolate or something for Andy and Mac."  She reaches out to squeeze Rachel's hand quickly and smiles.  "For some reason the whole world seems brighter right now."

Nothing like some hot fresh chow when you got back from sitting in the cold, she knows well.

Andy and Mac worked their way carefully back to the refugee camp. They kept to the shadows and the ever-encroaching undergrowth. Eventually, they came close enough for Andy to warn the base of their approach, "Romeo, this is Julliet, permission to approach."

"Juliet, this is Romeo.  Come on in, I have some hot chow for you."

Honestly, she wasn't on watch, but she notified the police.  Well, Rachel, and cooked up some fast "Shepherd's pie", rations style, for the boys.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 227):

Rachel nodded in agreement, moving off to see to security arrangements for the night.

Mac and Andy were recognised and permitted to approach. The team formed up and then headed back to the Cariboo base for the night.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 228):

It was about 2100, a bit early. Although most people nowadays went to sleep with the coming of night, people in New West and UBC had electric lighting to keep then awake, alter their hours.

"I'm going into town to get something to eat, anyone care to join me?"

In reply to Christopher Little Hawk MacDonald (msg # 229):

"Hey, mind if I tag along?" Darek Sochacki asked.

"Sure, let me see if Rae can join us Mac."  She waves and tracks down the Mountie, offering the food, if she can go.

In reply to Christopher Little Hawk MacDonald (msg # 229):

Hawke looked up from the book he was reading.

"I could use a pint.  Where are we going?"

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 232):

They were going to a Greek restaurant that was overlooking the river. Rae was easily able to meet them. The team had drinks and great Greek food, including roast lamb that fell off the bone.

The biggest news Rae had to share was the Mounties were forming mounted units to patrol the valley and border.

Kelsey sits next to Rachel, though doesn't do anything obvious.  She swallows a bite of souvlaki before questioning Rachel with a little interest.

"Seriously Rae, like real mounties, with horses?  I think that is pretty awesome!"

She'd further express approval, the idea of having a police presence felt via horseback is excellent.  There is something about a thousand pounds or so of horseflesh that lends authority, and as long as you have hay or oats, you have horse fuel.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 234):

The restaurant above the river, overlooking the Fraser. Down below were the train tracks and docks fronting the river. Looking out to their left was the Skytrain and Patullo bridges. To the left was the Russian submarine, Kursk, brightly lit by its nuclear powerplant. Cofferdammed drydocks surrounded both ends of the boat, which were under repair. The bow had suffered war damage while the stern propellers had been damaged navigating the Fraser when it tried to dock in New West. Preparations were under way to move it to permanent drydock facilities on the North Shore. There was a chance that Wayne would be pulled to assist in that project at some point. The boat itself was guarded by Russian sailors and local militia.

As always, the lamb souvlaki was superb. Who knew what the cook needed to do to get the correct blend of spices and herbs? There was beer to drink, as well as some very overpriced ouzo. This was not imported or prewar stock, but home-made by the proprietor using local ingredients and a copper still in a shed down below. The anise, clover and coriander was grown in a truck garden nearby.

They couldn't stay too late, as Taras and Clarke-Sullivan were due back in the morning.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 235):

Hawke leaned back with a pint of of the local brew in his hand.

"Beats the hell out of patrol.  I'm headed in early, too.  T'is my last one.  Unless we have orders for the morning, I'll be headed to the hospital."

"I'd stick around until late morning at least, our bosses are due back then.  If you do head to the hospital, take a radio and monitor it.  Me, I will be doing a little maintenance work and working out some things with Ari.  Not that I plan on sleeping in.

She takes a swig of beer then smiles widely at Rachel  "It's been a good day."

She lets her eyes wander at the seen outside the window, wondering silently to herself how such things as a Russian sub would become commonplace, even soothing, to look at.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 237):

"How's this?  I'll swing through the office, check in with the DO, and if it's OK, I'll go to the base Pharmacy, pick up expiring meds, and catch an ambulance to the hospital.  I'll take a radio, but if I don't answer on the first ping, call the hospital direct, I could be in surgery, and radios don't scrub-in well.  If I have to come back, I'll either catch an ambulance and come back on the red or a hack."

He's not trying to be obstinate, he's trying to figure out how to shuffle priorities and make the most use of his time.  Picking up expiring meds, he can swap at the hospital for fresher ones, they'll use them faster than we have so far, thank ghu.

"Take a jeep, Hawke.  The UAV or the Hummer, fair enough?  Just check in before you go."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 239):

"Wilco."  He stands, and heads for the door.  "Tomorrow."

06 June 2001

The morning dawned sunny and clear.

In the morning, Hawke looked over the medicines, saw they were all up to date. This post had been established a few weeks before and so everything was of recent vintage, manufactured in the labs and facilities at the university. For such a small post there was no OD, although Kel was in charge.

Belanger was there, with him was Commander Clarke-Sullivan and Staff Sgt. Shevchenko.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 241):

Commander Clarke-Sullivan was originally in Naval Intelligence, and was now the DRI regional team leader. She was usually at team HQ at UBC, running team operations, so this was a rare appearance. for several members, this was the first time they'd seen her.

"Good morning, everyone. I see some new faces! I'm Commander Clarke-Sullivan. You can call me "Commander Clarke" for short.

"Taras here has said good things about all of you. Over on the Island, they're very impressed about your handling of the "Pig Farm". We got some good intel out of that regarding the HAs and their allies."

In reply to Andrea Clarke-Sullivan (msg # 242):

Cpl. Sochacki, who was not at the 'Pig Farm', chose not to speak when the former operation was mentioned. However, he did try to commit Commander Clarke's name to memory.

Kelsey sat at the briefing table, a scavenged lab table from probably the biology lab with a black slate top, one of the corners missing, sitting to one side in the middle of a clear space in the gym.  The chairs were assorted and mismatched, though most were student desk chairs, the one Kelsey was leaned back in had rollers and arms, probably from a teacher's office.  Her cigarettes were sitting on the table in front of her, her zippo lighter with a worn "Van Doos" crest readily apparent on it, and her glengarry resting beside those.

She sat up straighter and grinned at the female commander, she'd known her some time now.

"Morning Commander Clarke!  A lot of that was quick thinking on Sergeant Taras end of things."

Good Morning everybody! Is good to see you all!

The Ukrainian went to proceed with the customary handshake and backslapping. The exposure to the sun over the ferry crossings to and from the island translated into a healthy tan. He seemed to be overall relaxed and in good spirits.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 245):

"Hello" Cpl. Sochacki said, shaking Taras's hand enthusiastically. He was glad to once again see the Ukrainian. He tried to understand these Westerners, but they thought so...differently.

Kelsey is as gregarious as she normally is, greeting Taras back with a hug.  "Looking tan there, Taras.  Welcome back!"

Thank you people. I hope everything went well with the Hell Angel's mission. You don't need to give me a briefing right now, of course, but I'd like to hear about your feelings.

Taras produced a fresh pack of smokes seemingly manufactured somewhere in the warmer shores of Vancouver Island. Twenty years ago, illegal cigarettes were mostly U.S. smokes smuggled into Canada. Since cigarette manufacturers paid huge fines for encouraging the illegal cigarette trade, 90 per cent of contraband cigarettes were manufactured on First Nation reserves. Another affluent source of cigarettes were coming from the occasional chinese shipment but that came to a stop went the world went up in...smoke. The Staff Sargent passed the pack along.

Kelsey takes one of the smokes with a heartfelt thanks, but doesn't light it immediately, instead toying with her 'Van Doos' emblazoned Zippo, flipping the lid open and closed.

"Andy, I think you first."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 249):

Cmdr. Clarke-Sullivan waited for the cigarettes to go around.

"Save them for later. No smoking on school grounds! Or at least indoors."

"All right, you guys are on recce up the valley. The sighting of the tier 2 HAs with Dave Pickton were tantalising, but inconclusive. It's "Indian Country" out there, we need to have some eyes out there.

"We need a route and a timetable. Available support is going to be limited for the foreseeable future, so don't get into too much trouble."

In reply to Andrea Clarke-Sullivan (msg # 250):

Belanger smiled but shook his head at the offer of a cigarette.

"Grown in and shipped from Kelowna, I hear. Packaged on Vancouver Island!"
This message was last edited by the player at 07:38, Thu 27 Sept 2012.

In reply to Alain Belanger (msg # 251):

Mac took a cigarette, "thanks, I'll take one for later!"

The team mascot introduced herself to Clarke-Sullivan, woofing a "hello!"

In reply to Russalka (msg # 253):

Clarke laughed and ruffled the new team member's fur, letting the dog sniff her.

"Allright, let's get down to business. You're doing a recce of the valley.

"What's your route? Schedule? At this point your only objective is to make it to Langley, find a location for a government outpost. That's biker territory, we want to take the flag and the fight to them."

Taras deployed one simplified map to show the area of operations:




Lets see folks:

Langley is located in the southwest corner of the province and 45 kilometres (28 miles) east of the City of Vancouver. That's a beautiful agriculture-rich part of the Fraser Valley. The Trans-Canada Highway runs through it dissecting the northern part of the municipality from the south. So take that in account as it is one of the main avenues of approach.

The northern boundary is the Fraser River; the southern boundary is the United States border. Western neighbours are the City of Surrey and the City of Langley; oto the east is the City of Abbotsford. The western boundary is 196 Stree; the eastern boundary is 276 Street.

My suggestion is to set up a forward operating base at Fort Langley: Fort Langley is a former trading post of the Hudson's Bay Company. Commonly referred to as "the birthplace of British Columbia". I believe it would be a good position to "show the flag" as our commander mentions. Curiously enough there is plenty of information available through tourism brochures dating before the war.

The Staff Sargent distributed a few brochures printed by the tourism department of British Columbia with abundant info including pictures and a map with the exact location;   http://www.historicplaces.ca/e...px?id=7614&pid=0

As you can see in the map, the location of the fort is close to the river. We can approach by ground terrain, by water...or both. The river also facilitates communications and supply. I suppose that we can't go wrong making the same choice that the Hudson Bay Company did 150 years ago.

Gentlemen...and ladies. We'll make a roll call of people available for the recce and the material available and from there I will proceed with the mission orders. So, who's in?

Unexpectedly Russalka, all dressed up for the meeting, barked out loud generating a sheer volume of laughter among the presents:

"Sounds pretty good, assuming it isn't flooded out.  Do we go by land or by sea, or both?"

she smiled at the dog and fed her a saved treat

If I have enough people I'll go for both.

"What sort of intel do we have about activity in the region?" Andy asked, "If we aren't happy with our knowledge, it might be wise to send in a recce party, it doesn't have to be two snipers in ghillie suits, we could send in a group disguised as traders who could gather HUMINT as well as other data."

"You are the recce. We have little information on the valley right now, although we have been canvassing refugees in the camps. We'll let you know if anything solid comes up. So far, mainly rumours of invading American patrols and bikers, up-valley. We're especially interested in New American cells. The skinheads are a new element for us, we don't know where they fit into the picture."

"As for available personnel you have yourself, Master McRae, Sergeant Champlain, Able Seaman Lo, Constable Sochaki, Private MacDonald (Mac), Sgt. Tremblay, Corporal Hawke. And of course, Russalka!"

In reply to Andrea Clarke-Sullivan (msg # 259):

"One thing, we don't like how the Flamingo and Angels' Cabaret are so close to the camp at the far end of the Patullo bridge. I'm going to have Inspector Khandola and the RCMP conduct a joint operation with the New West Militia to shut it down. It'll be a good exercise, develop necessary skills. Lots of new faces in the ranks."
This message was last updated by the player at 08:23, Mon 01 Oct 2012.

Please understand that this type of mission is not a surveillance like the one the snipers did before. We are to do something like "recce by force" against any hostile element currently west of our position.

Seems like is the will of the HQ in the Island to use us as advanced guard or spearhead and then use the local Law Enforcement for mop-up behind us. We are also to set up a position from where further operations can be launched. So be it. My idea is split the group in two teams and execute a maneuver similar to that of Port Moody. The zodiac would sail upstream towards Fort Langley while the ground element does so through Highway 1.

There are more elements that I want to have involved in the mission. I want to explore both terminals of the defunct Albion Ferries and also send a diversionary force together with the recce element.

Taras stopped short of being carried away and let the words sink in observing the facial expressions of the members of the team.

Kelsey turns the Van Doos emblazoned lighter over in her hands and looks at it for a little bit, the light playing off and reflecting in odd angles as she thinks, then she nods slowly.

"Sure, the Hell's Angels want to put women's rights back into the stone ages, I'm fine with whatever we have to do to protect the populace.  If they didn't get the message that this is not a safe refuge for their ways around here already, they will now.  Just remember that expert sniper is still at large, we need to wear our vests."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 262):

"I'm in favor of some night-time escapades over a stand-up fight.  Spend some time thinning their ranks, rather than depending on a technological advantage.  Get some piano wire and see what we can do with it.  The other thing I'd do is put enough boots in the camp to make that an undesirable target, so the Angels aren't going to want to try their luck at riding roughshod over it."

He paused, thinking.

"Or we could just make some of their buildings and support infrastructure go away, with prejudice.  We aren't Americans with their drones, but we have the tools to make buildings go away from a distance."

Kelsey taps her fingers on the black slate counter of the table, then grins.

"Any chance we can get our hands on some land mines or claymores?  I think we have some recovered land mines from before.  Worst to worst, we make like we are laying them and put up a sign warning about them.  Kind of how you used to advertise you had a security system?"

It was a moment of reflective mood. The moment was ripe. The sudden command to move forward through the valley bypassing the limited but active presence of the bikers meant "war". Taking the fight to the core of enemy territory.

We have clear orders from HQ to move forward. We are taking the fight to indian country. The operational planning worked out well and the presence of criminal elements is pretty much done North of the Fraser River. That will give us green light to start a final phase to liberate the rest of the territory. We will do that using surprise, decisiveness and active seeking to secure the initiative.

Seems like the Staff Sargeant was just relaying the overall ideas brewed in the Command Head Quarters. He already worked out a detailed mission as instructed:

Our mission will be to go over Fort Langley. We don't know what is going on there but that is the objective. That site has historical as well as operational importance for our purposes. I'm going to send the zodiac up the river and land at MacMillan Island to get an initial report of the level of activity. It will be a night time infiltration. In the mean time the ground element will be approaching through Highway One. The ground element will have two vehicles. A scout pick up truck and the Cougar.

The pick up truck will provide initial route clearance and warning for the main vehicle through the highway and then 96th Avenue. It is been demonstrated that our enemies are provided with anti-tank weapons. The pick up will be provided with dismounts in case we need to get rid of this threat. An extra police patrol will be added to the convoy and then re-routed to 88th Avenue. This way we get a secondary route clearance. They will be instructed not to confront anybody if something comes up but report to us.

Surely enoguh we will get news from the zodiac boys while on route and then we will be able to make a decision about the Fort. In any case I suggest to pick up the big guns, fill up the mags to capacity and pray. We are not going to ask many questions this time, if you know what I mean..

"Taras, why a pickup truck instead of a proper military vehicle with a weapons mount like the Hummer?"

By all means, Kel! I've been away for a few days and I don't know what kind of vehicles we have available other than the Cougar. I'll put in charge of that element. I'll be commanding the Cougar with Darek Jesus as my turret man. Somebody will do my driving. The rest is yours. Then a couple volunteers for the fish and chips picnic, that is.

Belanger thought for a moment. "You have Sgt. Tremblay's Humvee. And your UAZ, of course.

"I don't know about a police unit to recce and clear the side route, I think we can get a militia patrol to do it. Have to check with Vancouver Garrison HQ at Jericho, the overall regional area command."

Most perfect then! The hummer seems like a better weapons platform. A militia patrol will be great to cover the secondary route. We'll need to put them in the same radio net though.

"The Hummer is my choice.  I'll need a good driver, and any other crew that we want in it.  Good eyes in that hatch, I think I'll want to do that myself.  Who can I have Taras?"

Belanger looked thoughtful. "As well, it's been pointed out we have a collection of wheeled vehicles not getting a lot of use. The local police and militia can use the Jeep CJ and Suburban SUV, they'll swap for an army Iltis."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:04, Wed 03 Oct 2012.

"I forgot we had that CJ, and someone has been hiding the suburban.  Iltis are pretty nice, and they mount a machine gun, so that would be good.  I'd like to keep one civvy style vehicle around for being sneaky... but what do you think Taras?"

The main idea of this operation is to conduct a recce patrol and see what we can do at our objective "Fort Langley". Like they say here the name of the game is mutual support.

You all know chess, right? The Cougar is a knight as in true cavalry style. Is powerful and will instill fear in the monarchs. Then I'm going to need a good bishop to dash forward. The hummer is the perfect fit: Fast, well armed and decently protected. Kelsey, you will need at least a couple dismounts with you or pawns. They wont go too far but they cover angles in a nice way.

To cover the lateral movements I have two rooks. One is the zodiac and the other might as well be the Iltis with the militia: Speed and puch. They will add width and depth to our moves.

Again: Mutual support. The enemy will have an initial positional advantage and they have mobility. Our goal is the four "Fs": Find them, Fix them, Fight them and Fuck them.

Now, concerning the personnel we have to fill in the positions: I'm commanding the Cougar with Darek as gunner and Wayne as driver. Militia are self serving and Mr. MacDonald and Andy can go on the zodiac. The rest are yours Kelsey. Unless there is any objection.

Kelsey laughs softly and looks over to Hawke.

"Looks like you are driving Hawke."

She puts the unlit cigarette down and her lighter.

"Dismounts would be ideal, but the rest you speak of are me and Hawke, unless you can lever me some militia, we are fresh out of pawns."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 274):

Tremblay sipped his coffee and chuckled.

"There's me, but that's it."

"You'll do Tremblay, you'll do"

She chuckles

"Sounds like we should do call signs based on Chess?  Knight, Rook, Bishop?"

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 276):

"Sure, why not? I think you covered it. King, Queen, Knight, Bishop, Pawn. White and Black, too. We can make up fake call signs to confuse anyone listening on our channels"

"Mac, honestly, if they can listen in on our SINCGARS, our callsigns aren't worth bothering with."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 274):

Hawke grinned.  This was vastly different than the Royal Marines.  He'd gone from being a senior rescue specialist to a chauffeur.  No problem, he'd done worse.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 273):

Cpl Sochacki listened to the Ukrainian man giving the briefing. Gunner, Darek thought, wondering if he had done something wrong to get 'demoted'. He listened to the banter back and forth, paying attention to the radio discussion.

"The Sergeant is right" Sochacki agreed. "The frequency hoping aspect of the radio should do the trick. Staff Sergeant, what type and quantity of ammunition will the Cougar's gun have?"

Initially we are loading the turret with ten ready rounds. 5 HESH and 5 canister. The MG can take 220 rounds. This is as far as the turret goes. The stowage area can take more ammo but we need to put some other stuff as well. Perhaps we can add up another 10 rounds.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 281):

Darek Sochacki quickly did the math.

"Are twenty shells really enough?" he said, sounding more surprised than indignant. "Might I also suggest we borrow some sandbags and place them in sensitive areas to add a bit of armor where it's needed."

"Ok, we have a 240 on the Hummer, so that's even foot portable if need.  See if we can scrounge a tripod just in case, we might have to hunker down.  Pack some empty sandbags as well.  Tremblay if you can scrounge a grenade launcher that might be a big help.  The corporal is right, between the frequency hopping and the encryption, our radios are going to be pretty secure, not too worried about anyone being able to capture and decode our transmissions, even me.  I'm pretty good with a 240, to I'll man it."

She looks up, taps her fingers on the tabletop.

"Alain, is it possible for us to pick up an anti-material machine gun to defend this outpost with?  Nothing talks like a Ma Deuce, if you ask me, call it heavy diplomacy."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:48, Wed 03 Oct 2012.

Darek, I'll tell you what...if you want ammo I will suggest to load up lots of 7,62 patronen. The main gun shoots pumpkins, the fire control system is crap and the turret turns too slow. Similar to the old pekhota*.

In my experience here in Vancouver, the enemy will be moving fast in their jeeps and motorbikes. As a Combat Engineer I can tell you that the high explosive will be useful against bunkers and the birdshot will be great against the feathers of the angels too. Is also a good insurance against any possible armor threat and then we have the psychological factor of the big boy...

Feel free to add some old rubber tires around, they eat up the HEAT pretty well! Sandbags will be great for the turret.

Kelsey, we have a heavy machine gun and tripod available. I remember we got it in Chinatown. Make a list with all the extra weapons needed and give it to me and will do a request to UBC to get them delivered ASAP.

My concern regarding communications is not much interception but jamming. In that aspect I'm confident with the new equipment. We are going to move close but see if you can find that comms with the zodiac looks good too. We depend on their Intel before we proceed towards the Fort.


*Refers to the BMP-1.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 284):

Clarke smiled and shook her head.

"No more Ma-Deuce. We've been expanding the local armed forces, and the weapons you've been capturing have gone to good use. There's no supply chain, at least not yet, so we had to loan that weapon out. And the Mk. 19. You still have the Carl Gustav!"

"Boom boom!  That's a KPV, isn't it?  We handed up the ones we captured off that quad, but not the other one.  A grenade launcher of some sort would be needed too, MK 19 would be awesome, but we'll take what we can get, even 203's or 91's."