NationStates Jolt Archive

August 30, 1939: German-Polish Border

General Walther von Brauchitsch stood next to his command car watching as several companies of Wehrmacht soldiers marched past, forming up in their attack formations. Final preparations had been finished three days before, and finally, it was beginning. The long awaited invasion of Poland.

A line of Panzer Is rumbled past as well, parts of the 1st and 2nd Panzer Divisions, the spearhead of the attack to be made by the 2nd German Panzer Army under the command of Heinz Guderian. Some 600+ tanks and 200,000 soldiers a small part of the forces to be leading the invasion into Poland.

Brauchitsch smiled to himself as the night grew closer in, dawn not far away. “Es ist immer kurz vor der Dämmerung dunkler,” Brauchitsch said aloud. It is always darker just before the dawn.

He turned back to his car and got in it. Sitting down in a heap he leaned his head back. The Fuhrer was increasing his pressure on the Wehrmacht, wanting everything to be perfect for the invasion. A main attack from the German mainland through the western Polish border. This was to be carried out by Army Group South commanded by General Gerd von Rundstedt, attacking from German Silesia and from the Moravian and Slovakian border: General Johannes Blaskowitz's 8th Army was to drive eastward against Łódź; General Wilhelm List's 14th Army was to push on toward Kraków and to turn the Poles' Carpathian flank; and General Walter von Reichenau's 10th Army, in the centre with Army Group South's armour, was to deliver the decisive blow with a northwestward thrust into the heart of Poland.

A second route of attack from the northern Prussian area. General Fedor von Bock commanded Army Group North comprising General Georg von Küchler's 3rd Army, which struck southward from East Prussia, and General Günther von Kluge's 4th Army, which struck eastward across the base of the Polish Corridor.

All three assaults were to converge on Warsaw, while the main Polish army was to be encircled and destroyed west of the Vistula. If all went well, the Russian Red Army was to be attacking as well from the East. The Poles would be decimated and entirely surprised, and there was nothing the French and British could do about it.

“Soll ich fahre Sie zurück zu Hauptsitzen, herr General?” asked his aide-driver. Shall I drive you back to Headquarters.

“Ja, bitte,” Brauchitsch said tiredly. “Ja.” The aide nodded and the armored car roared to life. It’s lights came on and the car started off, its side flags waving in the night wind. It turned west and drove down the road, passing lines of marching infantry and rumbling tanks.


The screeching sound of banshees filled the air. It was as if Hell had opened and the legions of the damned had been unleashed. First the screaming, then a whistle, then an explosion and the earth would explode into a burst of dirt and grass before your eyes.

The 1st Fighter Wing stationed out of Breslau drove up back into the clouds, their ‘Stuka’ dive bombers having delivered their deadly pay load.

“Hans! Der war ein großer Schuß! Ich denke, daß Sie ein Recht mitten in dieser marschierenden Spalte landeten,” exclaimed a voice over the radio. That was a great shot! I think you landed one right in the middle of that marching column.

“Ja, ich weiß. Ich versuche, besser zu erhalten, aber diese Vögel haben Probleme mit dem Tun, daß schnell,” Lieutenant Hans repsonded. I'm trying to get better, but these birds have problems with doing that fast.

Laughter came over the radio. The Luftwaffe was letting their fury known.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/WWII%20Pics/Junkers_Ju87.jpg

Over a low hill came a large pipe, it was strange, and then suddenly more of the pipe appeared and it was attached to a metal box-like moving vehicle. It finally came above the hill. An order was shouted above the din of another diving attack plane. A machine gun opened fire upon the metal box, its turret moved. With a boom and a flash of flame it fired. The machine gun fell silent. Suddenly behind the tank came a wave of infantry, firing from crouched positions and moving forward, throwing grenades and spitting out from machine pistols.

It was pure Hell.

“Move! Fall Back! We can’t hold them!” shouted an officer nearby. The line of Polish infantry men got up from their deeply dug trenches and started running back. Artillery fire from the enemy fell among them as they ran. And they didn’t stop running, for the enemy kept coming after them.


A polish machine gunner ducked and threw away the grenade that soared into his position. “Kurwa MAC!” Holy Shit! he yelled. He kept mowing down a line of grey figures approaching through the fog of debris and dust. An unholy rumbling sounded from behind the cloud, but the Pole kept firing.

“Pojcie wszyscy do piekla!” Damn you all to hell!

Suddenly the grey figures dived to either side, out of the way and out of sight. The Polish gunner stopped, confused. Suddenly a looming huge shape appeared through the fog. It was like a giant metal animal. It shuddered to a halt and its long barrel shifted turning strait at the gunner. “Kurwa.”

The tank blasted the side of the house into oblivion, causing the walls to cave in. Infantry quickly took advantage and pressed in through the debris and moved on down the street. More and more tanks and infantry were combing the streets of Ostrow. It was a major city in western Poland and was one of the first targets of the 3rd Panzer Division.

“Schnell!” shouted a sergeant, he waved on his platoon and the grey fatigues of the German soldiers blended in with the cityscape. More pot-shots by retreating Poles kept them from being too bold.

Soviet-Polish Border, September 1st
The 45th Rifle Division of the Southwestern Military District sat silently on the Polish border, offering some depth to their lines. The Poles would fly their reconnaissance aircraft, seeing only the first and second depths of the Soviet mobilization on the border which would cause misintelligence on exact Soviet formations and numbers - the Germans had done so just days before when they began to prepare for their own invasion of Poland. The division was commanded by Shestapalov, a very orthodox commander, something that had plagued the Red Army since Stalin's purges - especially the purge of 1937. Nevertheless, Soviet commanders were driven by the fact that if they failed they faced, most likely, death in a gulag in the middle of Siberia. Fear was always a way to drive men to do their duty, although sometimes it concluded with unintentioned results. In any case, Shestapalov sat in his command room far from the front and read the directive that STAVKA had sent from Moscow. He smiled, at least he wouldn't have to go to war directly. Moscow was playing this one smart and since the demarcation line of the Soviet-German border post-bellum had already been decided the Soviets could invade late and still take the territory that had been promised to them. Shestapalov's chief of staff looked at him and asked, "What does Moscow want now?"

The Russian general looked up and replied, "It seems as if the Germans have finally struck Poland."

The chief of staff laughed. All commanders of the Red Army knew that the Poles had little chance of defeating Germany, and even if that was possible they would have no chance to defeat a Red Army offensive after the Germans had destroyed the brunt of their forces. But he asked anyways, "What are our orders?"

Shestapalov smiled and answered, "This is the best part. We are to wait. Operation start dates will be given to us later, but it will be roughly around when the Germans tank Warsaw and cross the Bug River. We will simply hit the Poles in the rear, crush them, and take what is ours."

The Red Army was already prepared for what it would give Poland. The Southwestern Military District allotted the 5th, 6th and 16th armies to offensive tasks, while the 19th Army would be a strategic reserve. In other words, the Russians had sixteen rifle divisions at their disposal, six mechanized divisions, twelve tank divisions and two cavalry divisions arrayed as the 5th Cavalry Corps. In other words, there were around one hundred and fifty thousand infantry personnel alone ready to cross over the Polish border or reinforce units before them. Southwestern Military District also boasted of the 12th Army, but this would be left specifically as a third echelon force - a last resort, as well as the 26th Army, Front forces and the 9th Seperate Army. The invasion wouldn't need that much firepower, and it would be best and easier to organize smaller amounts of units. And so with that said, the Red Army waited for the correct moment to strike into Poland.

[OOC:
Source information for current armies and division sizes come from [i]Stumbling Colossus: The Red Army on the Eve of World War and Slaughterhouse: The Encyclopedia of the Eastern Front - admittetly, several of these numbers are not 1939 divisions, but Stumbling Colossus is the best soruce I have for pre-war Red Army, even though it describes mostly 1941 deployments, and Slaughterhouse provides excellent numbers for divisions of all nations that participated on the Eastern Front - so I'll have to stick with those.]

[OOC: Although Australia officially entered the war in '39 with the UK, do you think it's possible for me to stay neutral for a little while? I'm not gonna be home at all tomorrow, so I figure I'll make my entry into the war sometime Sunday.]

IC:

September 1, 1939

News spread quickly around the country with headlines proclaiming "WAR IN EUROPE!!!", and this news worried the citizens of Australia. They knew Japan had looked at the Pacific with hungry eyes, and prayed that peace would endure in their little part of the world. Everyone knew war was inevitable in the Pacific, but they tried as hard as they could manage to keep that thought far from their minds.

Little did they know the nightmare that they and the world would endure in just a little time.

September 1, 1939

Due the prolonged violations of Versailles treaty, overall agressive and militant foreign policies and attack against sovereign nation of Poland, The State Of War now exists between The Republic of France and German Third Reich.

Signed,

Édouard Daladier, Prime Minister
Albert Lebrun, President
Georges Bonnet, Minister of Foreign Affairs

September 1st 1939

"In order to maintain the nuetrality of Luxembourg, Radio Luxembourg will not be broadcasting for the length of the war, we promise that when we return to normal programming we will have not lost our ways, transmission out." The message was repeated in French before the broadcasting station went dead.

September 1, 1939

You have brocken the Versailles treaty and destroyed any trust we once held for you. Unless we hear from you by 11 pm September 2nd that you are removing your forces from Poland, then a state of war will exist between us.

Prime Minister Chamberlain

September 4th 1939, Monday

The German 3rd Army (von Kuechler) and 4th Army (von Kluge) joined in the Polish Corridor. After three days of continous fighting both armies had finally established breakthroughs and the Polish Army had been thrown back. 30,000 troops had been captured in the retaking of the 'Polish Corridor'.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/Wehrmacht.gif

Lines of infantry stood or sat along side of the road, several tank groups were sitting off to the side in a field, several engineers were working on the tracks of two Panzer IIIs, the crews sat smoking nearby. Even a platoon of cavalry scouts were grazing nearby. All leading into the city of Torun.

A command armored car rummbled down through the ranks of the marching troops. It bore the markings of a general.

"When we get into the city make sure you find General Kuechler's command headquarters. He should have one set up by now, or at least a temporary one," said the officer sitting beind the driver.

"Ja herr General," responded the driver.

The city of Torun was partially destroyed by the Luftwaffe bombing, bebris was all over the streets, and soldiers taking up residence through the local buildings and getting some rest. The 3rd Army had been in the position in and around the city for days. Only during the middle of the current day had the 4th Army elements, its advancing Panzer forces, met up with 3rd Army units moving east-ward beyond Torun.

The armored car drove up before the largest free standing building. A Nazi flag over it. General Günther von Kluge stepped out of the armored car and walked up the steps. Two Wehrmacht soldiers stood on either side of the door, they saluted and opened the door for Kluge.

Kluge entered a bustling room of aides. A large exstensive radio set was on a large table, its operator speaking into its reciever. An aide noticed Kluge enter and snapped to attention.

"Actung!" The entire office area turned into a concert of snapping heels and 'Heil's. Kluge lifted his right arm and nodded.

"Where is General Kuechler?" Kluge asked. An aide pointed to a door.

"In here General."

"Very good, return to your duties." The headquarters area slowly went back to its usual busy self and Kluge walked over to the door and entered. There General Kuechler stood in the middle of the room over a map of Poland. He looked up as Kluge entered.

"Ah, General Kluge, I was expecting you."

"Indeed, how fairs it with your army?" Kluge asked, he took the liberty to sit down in a nearby chair. A coffe pot was nearby and Kluge indulged himself.

"Not bad, much faster with these new attack patterns of Guderian's. I'll have to compliment him the next time there is a general staff meeting. But until then we have a war on our hands. My 4th Panzer Division is heading south as we speak, driving towards Plock. Once we have the city we can make an advance on Warsaw," said Kuechler. Kluge shrugged off his over coat and stepped over to the map holding his tea.

With his eyes he traced the route that Kuechler was making with his Panzer division.

"What of Lodz? Have we captured it yet?" Kluge asked. Kuechler sighed and shook his head.

"The last report said that the 30th Panzer Division and supporting infantry divisions were driving there as we speak. I am assuming that we'll have control of it by tommorow, but I cannot be sure. Our left flank, your army, is secure, and I've seen to it that all of our gains thus far are secure, no leaks, and once we know that Lodz is captured, we can move past Plock and onto Warsaw," Kuechler said. "And from there to victory."

Kluge nodded. "However my friend, my 8th and 12th Panzer divisions, supported by the 18th, 7th, and 23rd Infantry are already 40 miles north of Plock. How far away to the west are yours?"

Kuechler frowned. "My 4th division is going along the river roads...it should be about 50 miles, maybe a little more."

"So I will have to halt my advance to keep the Poles from flanking me...well, I can't stay long; I only came to see how you where doing and when the attack on Plock could begin," Kluge said. "When your men are further advanced, radio me and I will see to it that your attack is supported."

With that said Kluge put his coat back on and walked from the office.

OOC - Just joined as Poland.

I don't know how you guys want me to do this, just RP Post-invasionary Poland or do the last stands.

September 4th 9:00 AM, Berlin 1939

Adolf Hitler scoffed as he read the two telegrams on his desk. Each was more stupid and idiotic than the last. But then what could one expect from the French? Two telegrams and a radio message had confirmed that France had declared war upon Germany.

Then not more than a few hours earlier, the British also sent a message saying that unless they left Poland, evacuated all troops, they would declare war.

"Chamberlain has no spine to back up his threat," Hitler said to himself. He put the message down and looked at the French one. It was a far more serious one than the British telegram. While the British were away on their isle, the French were much more closer to home. Even so, it would take weeks for the French to mobilize a sizeable force, by which time Germany would have already defeated Poland.

An aide entered with the Fuhrer's morning tea and a daily report from the front. Hitler smiled and accepted the tea and started into the report. It was going well. Hitler felt like dancing, but instead called for a meeting with two of his general staff officers.

Two hours later Hitler stood with his generals looking over a map of Europe. With him where Field Marshal Model, General von Strauss of the 1st SS Army (Kraven) and a few other officers.

Hitler entered the room and nodded as the officers snapped their heels and said "Heil Hitler!"

"Good afternoon gentlemen. I am in need of discussing with you the current dispositions of the French. I would like to hear your opinions on the matter," he said coversationally.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/WWII%20Pics/Keitel_hitler_halder.jpg

OOC - Just joined as Poland.

I don't know how you guys want me to do this, just RP Post-invasionary Poland or do the last stands.

OOC: You can take up the defense from here it is now. I've driven the Polish forces to Lodz, Plock, and other cities along that curved line of defence. Heres a map I am using: link (http://www.answers.com/main/content/wp/en-commons/1/15/Poland_1939.png) And then here is my map that I marked, to show the extent of what I've conquered so far: My map (http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/untitled.jpg)

Krakow, Poland

The Germans were hitting hard at Krakow. Krakow was one of Poland's major cities, and the Germans would need it to claim any sort of victory in the area. The defenses would not be able to be formulated as the German Blitzkrieg tactics have brought them knocking at Krakow's doorstep rather quickly. All the Polish could do is defend it to the last Polish man.

Sergeant Andrzej Artur Radoslaw and his small squad of 4 men were bunked in a Hotel, firing out of a few windows. Around 28 Polish soldiers were bunked up in this building, and about 113 in the area. They were waiting for the Germans to turn the corner, and when they did, the Polish started to open fire. They were all mostly armed with Rifles but effective enough to inflict pain upon this small German squadron's advance. They could hear the Germans barking out to one another, trying to return fire at the bunked up Polish troops.

But then the Poles learned where they made their mistake. They heard the low humming noise from the German Fighters and then the roaring of their machineguns as they made small dives. They were plummiting the building Andrzej small squad was in, when the humming went silent he could hear men crying in pain. Sergeant Radoslaw barked out to the men around him to keep firing, which they did. They kept firing down at the now larger German forces making their advance through the street. Then another buzzing and diving, and Radoslaw knew his men would have to make a run for it. He and his small squad abandoned the building and took the back alley out, running past trashcans and the odor of grit.

He and his men reached the end of the street to only encounter a German force around the corner. They stopped, and hid behind some old boxes. They heard the screaching of a tank's treads as it came down the street, and then the feet of about 20 or so Germans. He let them pass, and waited for awhile but then heard the Germans open fire with their Kar Rifles and the blast of the tank unleashing it's shell into one of the buildings across the street.

This section of town was lost.

Inner-Krakow, some minutes later

"SIR, THE GERMANS ARE ADVANCING QUICKLY!" Came in a young Aide.

"God dammit! Where the hell are our tanks?!" The Colonel responded rather rashly.

"They are said to be on their way sir, but no estimation of time of arrival." The Aide responded. The Colonel sighed, and then continued.

"I want all forces we have from the East side of Krakow to move into the Inner parts of town. We are going to prepare for the German advance. Pass this on to the operators, let them inform our forces of what I have just said." The Colonel had said.

"Yes, sir." The Aide responded.

OOC - Kind of difficult to RP a nation to fall anyways. I'll post more later.

September 1, 1939
"I am speaking to you from the Cabinet Room at 10 Downing Street.
This morning the British Ambassador in Berlin handed the German Government a final note stating that, unless we hear from them by 11 o'clock that they were prepared at once to withdraw their troops from Poland, a state of war would exist between us. I have to tell you now that no such undertaking has been received, and that consequently this country is at war with Germany.

You can imagine what a bitter blow it is to me that all my long struggle to win peace has failed. Yet I cannot believe that there is anything more or anything different that I could have done and that would have been more successful.

Up to the very last it would have been quite possible to have arranged a peaceful and honourable settlement between Germany and Poland, but Hitler would not have it. He had evidently made up his mind to attack Poland, whatever happened, and although he now says he put forward reasonable proposals which were rejected by the Poles, that is not a true statement.

The proposals were never shown to the Poles, nor to us, and though they were announced in a German broadcast on Thursday night, Hitler did not wait to hear comments on them but ordered his troops to cross the Polish frontier the next morning.

His action shows convincingly that there is no chance of expecting that this man will ever give up his practice of using force to gain his will. He can only be stopped by force.

We and France are today, in fulfilment of our obligations, going to the aid of Poland, who is so bravely resisting this wicked and unprovoked attack upon her people. We have a clear conscience - we have done all that any country could do to establish peace.

The situation in which no word given by Germany's ruler could be trusted, and no people or country could feel itself safe, has become intolerable. And now that we have resolved to finish it I know that you will play your part with calmness and courage.

At such a moment as this the assurances of support which we have received from the empire are a source of profound encouragement to us.

When I have finished speaking, certain detailed announcements will be made on behalf of the government. Give these your closest attention. The government have made plans under which it will be possible to carry on work of the nation in the days of stress and strain that may be ahead...

Now may God bless you all. May He defend the right. For it is evil things that we shall be fighting against - brute force, bad faith, injustice, oppression and persecution - and against them I am certain that right will prevail."

September 2nd 1939
It was time to act. Britain would no-longer appease the German forces: The British Expeditionary force and the Royal Air Force was being sent to France untill Britain had significant forces to counter the German invasion on Poland or untill Germany began its expected offensive upon France.

But where!? Chamberlain was pacing downing streat, listening to the reports of his aides. Although no-one had mentioned anything, it was clear that they all blamed Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain for what happened. Especially the newly appointed First Lord of the Admiralty Winston Churchill, who had always argued against negotiations with Hitler. Chamberlain could see it in their eye's.

Many expected, that once the Germans had secured Poland, they would attack through Flanders, just like in The Great War, but Chamberlain was less sure. Perhaps an attack through the Ardennes? Well this could be predicted later. For now it was important for Britain to show their presence in France. Troops were being sent already.

Churchill was arguing a strike at northern Sweden was necessary. A force sent to cut off German Iron Ore deposits could slow down Germany's arms development, that is if the land could be held by the British. Chamberlain agreed: Some of the British navy including several RAF Aircraft carriers were to be sent there, as well as some of the BEF.

OOC: Ok. Could someone help me find British numbers Pre-WW2? And I will RP the Strike at northern Sweden in another thread probably.

September 5th, 1939 - Berlin

Field Marshal Wilhelm Keitel stood over a map of Europe, small markers representing troop locations were set upon it, and Keitel was frowning at the map. Keitel leaned back and stood strait, moving his hands behind his back. He turned to another man in the room on the other side of the strategic map.

"Hermann, I thought your Luftwaffe was to be helping the ground attack of the Heer, not delaying it," Keitel said. The going to seed Reich Marshal seemed to take offence.

"On the contrary Field Marshal Keitel, I would expect my Luftwaffe to be the only thing keeping this invasion on schedule," Herman Goering in response. Keitel nodded and looked to Vice Admiral Wilhelm Canaris, Head of Military Intelligence.

"Well, Canaris, what have you to report thus far?" Keitel asked.

Canaris cleared his throat and nodded. "From what I have gathered, the Polish army is beginning to withdraw east of the Vistula river. General Kluge and Kuechler's 4th and 3rd armies are advancing from the north. They're in the process of capturing the city of Plock," Canaris pointed to one of the major northern Polish cities, " and that is not all. The Russian Red Army has launched it's own attack. I have taken the liberty of ordering General Kluge to link up with Red Army units here, in Ostraleka. From there our combined forces can wheel south and flank Warsaw. All Polish troops between Krakow and Warsaw will be caught in a noose."

Keitel nodded. "Thank you Vice Admiral, now-"

"I'm not finished sir," interupted Canaris. He shuffled through his papers and presented a red folder to the field marshal.

"According to my sources, the British are sending some of their forces into the Baltic Sea, my sources report that they consist of one or more aircraft carriers," Canaris said. The other three men standing in the room looked sharply at this.

"Why?" Goering asked. The fat man looked over the map. "There is nothing of importance other than to link up with Poland...but we've already conquered the Polish Corridor. They've no way to land troops if any."

Grand Admiral Erich Raeder, who had remained silent up to now, spoke up. "I believe it is more a matter of supplies perhaps. The current shipments of iron ore from Norway and Sweden are presently important to our production of war ships. While the ore we recieve from the russians goes strait to tank and fighter production, the Swedish ore goes to my ships. They may be trying to cut that off."

Keitel nodded at the Grand Admiral's assessment. It was the only real reason that the British would risk endangering their precious fleet. Keitel turned to Raeder. "Grand Admiral, how many U-boats are on patrol in the Baltic Straits?"

"A round dozen. I ordered seven more to launch yesterday, to ensure safety. I can have another...twenty-two launched by dawn tommorow if need be. All in all, I have 57 U-boats at present. Another seven are in construction. I also have 27 destroyers that can be deployed. Other ships, such as the Bismarck are still being constructed," Raeder said. "Why?"

"We will need to intercept this force...I do not want to see the Fuhrer angered over a simple matter of ore," said Keitel. "Prepare your naval forces for action within the Baltic Straits."

"Yes sir," said Raeder. "I will leave now." The Grand Admiral saluted and left the room.

"What do you plan to do?" Goering asked. He looked up from the map and at Keitel. "I have three of my Luftwaffe korps stationed in south-western Germany. Others are in the Polish campaign. The Luftwaffe won't be able to lend too much assistance."

"It won't be needed," said Keitel. "I am going to order General Model and his XXXXI Panzer Corp from Augsburg and station them in the Rhineland. The French may try something as well, I want to be prepared. The navy can handle this British threat. The 8th and 23rd Armies are also to be moved to the Rhineland. Admiral Canaris, you will, if you please, take these orders to the Heer Command Center."

The intelligence officer nodded, saluted, and left the room. Goering sat down in a plush chair and looked at Keitel. "What are you thinking Field Marshal?"

"I'm thinking about the end of a quick war."

September 4th 9:00 AM, Berlin 1939

Adolf Hitler scoffed as he read the two telegrams on his desk. Each was more stupid and idiotic than the last. But then what could one expect from the French? Two telegrams and a radio message had confirmed that France had declared war upon Germany.

Then not more than a few hours earlier, the British also sent a message saying that unless they left Poland, evacuated all troops, they would declare war.

"Chamberlain has no spine to back up his threat," Hitler said to himself. He put the message down and looked at the French one. It was a far more serious one than the British telegram. While the British were away on their isle, the French were much more closer to home. Even so, it would take weeks for the French to mobilize a sizeable force, by which time Germany would have already defeated Poland.

An aide entered with the Fuhrer's morning tea and a daily report from the front. Hitler smiled and accepted the tea and started into the report. It was going well. Hitler felt like dancing, but instead called for a meeting with two of his general staff officers.

Two hours later Hitler stood with his generals looking over a map of Europe. With him where Field Marshal Model, General von Strauss of the 1st SS Army (Kraven) and a few other officers.

Hitler entered the room and nodded as the officers snapped their heels and said "Heil Hitler!"

"Good afternoon gentlemen. I am in need of discussing with you the current dispositions of the French. I would like to hear your opinions on the matter," he said coversationally.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/Upum/WWII%20Pics/Keitel_hitler_halder.jpg


The General nodded, and pulled out a brown file, upon it a stamp of the Nazi Eagle, the swastika in its claws...

"My Furher, it is my personal opinion, that we should reinforce poland before moving on to France, while our Divisons are formidable at the moment, we do not want to over stretch ourselves in these early stages, I fear that the Russian army may try to make a tactical move on our sectors of Poland, if we take away valuable forces from these Sectors" Strauss spoke while handing Hitler the file, it detailed what units were operating in the Polish campaign...

"Once we have rebuilt our numbers, then, In my personal opinion, we should advance on France..." Strauss nodded his head in respect, before taking a step back and clasping his hands behind his back...

Hitler nodded and put his hands behind his back as he was prone to. He nodded to Strauss. "Ja, we will of course invade the French. Those humilating terms of the Treaty, that farce of a nation!" Hitle wiped his hair back into its smooth usual being and put his finger on the map.

"You General Strauss, are to move your troops here to Hamburg. I am told that very soon another Panzer korp will be ready, fresh off the production lines. Once they are complete they will be given to your 1st Army. Once you have begun setting up operations, I want an invasion plan made for Denmark."

OOC: Is this where all the battles go? Since i have no real means of transporting troops i will have to wait for Japan to continue its invasion.

September 5th
Fransicco Franco looked at his map Examining the new situation, he looked up at his map at his subordinates.
"Shall I mobilize the troops, sir?" quietly asked his chief General (I can't find the name)
"What the hell? You idiot! Why should we go fight this war. There is nothing to gain, yet. And we still have Republican guerillas to deal with!"
"We will stay neutral-for now."

"Godamn Krauts!" Ike slammed his fist on his desk, as he reviewed the document for the 25th time. "The germans have taken Poland with the Reds...." He sighed and took a long draught of water. Regaining his usual charming, upright stance, he faced his adviser. "Get me the President, I wish to advise him concerning the matter..."

FDR had hung up the phone on his desk, and leaned back, far into his chair. "My god, whats to stop the nazis?" "Sir?" The slinder, blonde haired secreatry approached him. "My president, the war department, as well as congress, request a reactionary statement." FDR smiled thinly. I will adress congress this afternoon. Call my driver..."

As FDR stood in front of the masses, he reviewed the paper in front of him, once or twice. He then gathered a great breath, and began to speak.

"My fellow statemen, as of this afternoon, I have become aware of the situation. As stunned as I was, I knew that I could not make any rash or hasty decisions. Therefore, I am declining a formal declaration of war on Germany. Despite the unorthodox, and perhaps even sneaky tactics implementied, in the capture of Poland, we can only hope that the situation in Europe will settle, and that the situation will difusse, soon enough." FDR left the room, wich was conspicuously absent of applause.

FDR sat in front of Macrarthur. Douglass, was looking into a map of the pacific, with great focus. "Mr. President, with all due respect, Germany cant do shit to us. I say, let the tension die down over the next few months. Our main focus, he added almost as if to hypnotize the president, should be Japan in the east. The Japs have made many enemies. Our terrioty, the Phillipines, is in critical risk. Also, our Hawain bases are in just as mich danger. The bastards have the best air force and navy in the enitire pacific. We should look to our pacific defenses." FDR nodded. Good afternoon Doug. He smiled, as Macarthur left the room. "Mrs. Berkley? Get me General Bradley, I want him here, today."

OOC: I really hope that we are RPing, because alot of this did not happen....

OOC: I really hope that we are RPing, because alot of this did not happen....

ooc: at the very least, you have to stick with America's isolationist view for a while, so thats the thing only do you have to change. Other than that, your post is fine; you can start talking with the Brits about sending them supplies, etc.

ooc: at the very least, you have to stick with America's isolationist view for a while, and FDR is not prez until 1940, so those two things only do you have to change. Other than that, your post is fine; you can start talking with the Brits about sending them supplies, etc.
OOC: What? FDR is president in 1932, when he brings in the New Deal, and goes to 1945.

Hitler nodded and put his hands behind his back as he was prone to. He nodded to Strauss. "Ja, we will of course invade the French. Those humilating terms of the Treaty, that farce of a nation!" Hitle wiped his hair back into its smooth usual being and put his finger on the map.

"You General Strauss, are to move your troops here to Hamburg. I am told that very soon another Panzer korp will be ready, fresh off the production lines. Once they are complete they will be given to your 1st Army. Once you have begun setting up operations, I want an invasion plan made for Denmark."


"My Furher, you Honour me with this new Panzer Korpz, I will see to it at once, you will have your Invasion plan as soon as I can possibly do so..." Strauss Saluted, before speaking once more..

"I Request that you may allow me my leave, so that I may prepare my forces and prepare for the Invasion.. My Furher.."

OOC: What? FDR is president in 1932, when he brings in the New Deal, and goes to 1945.


OOC: True, FDR was president in 1939.

"We should look to Britan, Pointed General Marshall. They could use planes and tanks, in case the Germans are able to push to the northern coastline. However, I dont think even Adolf Hitler can break the French Maginot Line. If France comes under attack, we will have to support the British."

General Macarthur arrived in the Phillipines, late at night. "Alright, what do we have as reinforcements?" Macarthur's top advisor, reviewed a document marked, classified. "Sir, we have recieved 25,000 men, and 140 tanks. Also, FDR sent us 150 fighters, and 35 heavy bombers." Macarthur shook his head. "Good, I dont trust the japs, request more defensive material."

France was in horrible, devastating political turmoil and disorder. It seemed like all the energy that had been focused aghainst the enemy when the Great War had begun in 1914 had this time beed directed in mocking the government. It was a hard, almost desperate situation for Édouard Daladier, the prime minister. He knew that the situation was not his fault, that he could not be accused, but that it was, under the circumstances, impossible to convince the people.
hey wanted someone to blame, and Daladier had been chosen. He saw only one possibility - redesigning.

Daladier had been a good leader, and wise enough to step down when it was seen to be best for his country. He was a politician, though one with spine, not a military man. Times of war weren't for him.

Thank God France had someone for this situation.
In 6th of September, two days after Daladier had left his place, Paul Reynard became the Prime Minister (With Capital Letters) of The Third Republic. He was a man who knew something about the army, having served in the colonial wars, and who had close relations with the General Staff. However, he was not a puppet of the Marshalls.

His first move as a prime minister was the forced formation of Armeê de Cuirassé (someone with better France please correct me if it was wrong) in which all 5 (motorized) Cavalry divisions and 4 armoured divisions were concentrated. It was placed under the command of Charles de Gaulle, who was promoted to the rank of General.
Reynard had been his supporter since the early thirties, when this young, dashing officer challenged the old guard marshalls, stuck in the thoughts and teachings of the Great War. He had spoken for mechanized warfare, mobility and surprise instead of trenches and weeks long artillery bombardments.

He had been laughed at, and promptly rejected, but now the winds of change were blowing. De Gaulle's armoured army trained excessively to achieve the speed and efficiency their commander demanded from them. Two new armoured divisions were also being formed, and anti-tank artillery and AT rifles were beeing produced in high quantities instead, of field artillery that they already had more than enough. De Gaulle kept speaking about the decisive effect of armoured spearheads of the Germans, like those that were currently in use against the Poles, and the urgent need of weapons to stop them.
And Reynard listened, but instead of just nodding and smiling to get rid of de Gaulle, like his predecessors had done, he actually did something. De Gaulle got his new armoured army, and the whole armed forces were going through a harsh training of how to repel armoured offensive.
Air defense was also beeing strenthened, if not in same scale as the AT defense since the French industry was already beeing overwhelmed by the requests of ammunition, new weapons and aircraft. Despite the difficulties, France and its Army were doing miracles in attempt to catch Germany in a race they had been three decades behind.

And yet, every night before taking his four hours rest Reynard fell asleep his last thoughts beeing; "Is it already too late?"

ahhh too many posts...

Fine how about this -

come get me when you are done...so I may RP post-invasionary...><

ahhh too many posts...

Fine how about this -

come get me when you are done...so I may RP post-invasionary...><

What do you mean "too many posts"?! It shouldn't be impossible find the last one that had something to do with Poland and respond. Your playing and efforts to slow up the German onslaught are essential for the RP. And France. Please don't fuck this up.

September 12, 1939- 4th Army, 14 miles North of Warsaw

“Command, this is Panzer Scout A-13, I’ve detected several Polish units outside Warsaw,” the man said into his radio, pair of binoculars was in his hands and he was gazing out from his position at a large city in front of him. “I estimate their strength to be at least a brigade.”

The radio fuzzed for a moment and was full of static, then cleared as a voice came through. “Copy that Panzer Scout A-13, keep your position and report hourly with any changes.”

“Understood command, Panzer Scout out,” said the man. He clicked the radio off and put it back on its carrier. He gazed through the binoculars once more. Warsaw stood tall against the sky before him. The Vistula River flowed like a great snake before him to his right.

The scout was an armored car from the 1st Panzer Division of the 4th Army under General Kluge. After the battle of Plock, the General had moved on immediately south, encircling the retreating Polish forces in a pocket. General Kuechler’s 3rd Army had occupied Plock and then moved slower south, picking up Polish stragglers. Thanks to the concentrated Luftwaffe attack on the city, the two combined German armies had easily overpowered the Polish defenders, but still taking losses as the stubborn Poles were ignorant to obvious necessity of retreating.

And now the 4th Army was in a position to attack Warsaw.


15:00 Hours, Krakow- September 12th, 1939

General Heinz Guderian watched from his command post as three flights of Stuka dive bombers flew over head and began bombing the large castle of Krakow. The city had presented some of the hardest and most stubborn defense that most Wehrmacht forces had yet to encounter. After a hard bombardment by artillery the outside suburbs had fallen, only to let the Polish forces, estimated at Division strength, had fallen back into the castle fortress that held the highest position for miles in all directions.

Now it was time for a final assault on the castle. Guderian would have liked to just bypass the castle, but he couldn’t without leaving his Supply Lines open to attack. It was very frustrating.

“Is the 30th Artillery ready?” Guderian asked, turning to his aide beside him. The young lieutenant nodded.

“Ja, herr General. Colonel Kurtz reports that his 88s have gotten into position. The bombardment should be taking place in…three minutes, as soon as the Luftwaffe have finished.”

“Gut, have Captain Marnt and Captain Laager move their regiments up for the assault. And make sure Colonel Karls knows when to advance with his 3rd Panzer Platoon,” responded Guderian.

“Ja General.”

September 12, 1939 – Berlin

Secret Telegram
To: Rome, Italy; Benito Mussolini
From: Berlin, Germany; Field Marshal Keitel
CC:

Greetings herr Mussolini. My Fuhrer Adolf Hitler wishes me to express his wishes in asking you to attend to a meeting with him in Munich on the date of September 18, 1939. The Fuhrer wishes to speak with you on matters concerning France and Britain and the current possibilities of war.

-Telegraph End-

Abe Nobuyuki read the telegram. "So, another European War has started. But it seems that the Communist Dogs is assisting, why isn't Germany upholding the Anti-Comintern pact?"
"All White men are the same, they would sell off their ancestors grave if it meant profit" said Oka Takazumi, the Intelligence minister, "Of course, our own conflict with The North didn't go as expected."
"Yes, who thought such Lazy Communist Slavs could construct such tanks" remembering when the Japanese Force was Flanked by the Russian tanks, commanded by Zhukov.
"Anyways, what should our Stance be in this matter?" Interrupted Takazumi.
"We still have China to Worry about, the bastards keep running towards the mountains, even our Warrior Spirit and blood isn't enough to overwhelm the sheer mass of them. However we are obliged to help Germany in exchange for their disparticipation to rearm China and for Recognizing Manchuko, send them the Promised Rubber Shipments."
"Immediately sir" Takazumi bowed. Such a waste he thought, we may need the Rubber to construct our own tanks, he supressed himself from saying it openly though. Self-Control is an important Viture.

*To London*

Dear Mr. Prime Minister,

Let me be the first to say, I am shocked at Germay's agression, and we offer our sympathy. However, it has come to my attention, that Jpana is a greater threat, to our soverign nation. Therefore, we decline anti-german agression.

FDR

Macarthur grinned as he read the report. Good. Most of our carriers have moved to our pacific bases. Fighters and bombers as well... The Phillipines defence force had been upgraded to 225,000 men, 300 tanks, 470 fighters, 170 bombers.

Ike looked over the documents. The brits will need help, he thought. But we cant risk another costly european war... Im sure the Brits and the USSR can overcome Italy and Germany... Japan will most likely sucumb to mass bombings...

OOC: SO SORRY ABOUT THE GRAMMAR-IN A HURRY LOL

"My Furher, you Honour me with this new Panzer Korpz, I will see to it at once, you will have your Invasion plan as soon as I can possibly do so..." Strauss Saluted, before speaking once more..

"I Request that you may allow me my leave, so that I may prepare my forces and prepare for the Invasion.. My Furher.."

"Very well General Strauss, once you've completed your plans send me a copy and I will review them," said Hitler and raised his right arm in response to the man's sharp and proffesional angle'd salute.

September 13th

The British were making the first efforts towards making British effective in war, and perhaps the most important step was gaining the sufficient manpower.
All across British colonies and Britain itself, desperate recruiting measures were taken to get as many men as possible. Within time such desperation would force Britain to take up the draft, but willing soldiers soldiers were always more effective than conscripts. Remembering the surge of willing crusaders who joined Britain during The Great War, Chamberlain was confident that within months Britain would have a force to combat the hordes under Hitler.

At the Same time churchill was putting the finishing touches to the plan to cut off iron ore supplies to Germany. It would be hard battle for the Royal Navy and the BEF, but it could be done.

Several other ideas put forward by other military leaders were being examined: Such as expanding the RAF and the small RADAR system used by the British, and even the possibility of manufacturing a new Tank for the war.
Although most of the military leaders were still set in the past, they were not without innovation.

It was time for the world to be split apart by war, crumbling into darkness. And Chamberlain hoped that Britain would not fall with it.

September 19, 1939 - Less than a dozen miles North of Warsaw

The plan was very simple. General Kluge and Kuechler's 4th and 3rd Army would be making the main assault.

Because Warsaw sat directly on the Vistula river, and had only two main bridges, the key to getting the city would be getting the bridges. To accomplish this General Kuechler's 3rd Mechanized Infantry Division along with three other Divisions in his 1st Korp, had crossed the Vistula at the city of Plock, 50 miles north. In the days between their advance more troops from Kluge's 4th army gathered before Warsaw on the eastern side of the river.

The plan of battle was for the Luftwaffe's 8th Air Group to launch a directed bomber attack against the northern half of the city. Ground artillery regiments would also participate.

Once the fire ended at 09:00 hours, the 4 divisions from Kuechler's 3rd Army would attack Warsaw's north-west sector, moving in to capture the first and northern most bridge, and then to hold their ground.

The rest of the attack would come from General Kluge. Two full Panzer divisions with two mechanized infantry divisions would also be attacking from the north-east. In support would be the remaining 4 Infantry divisions of Kueckler's 1st Korp, and 2 reinforced Luftwaffe paratrooper brigades under Colonel Klock.

Once the North-Eastern drive into the city linked up with Kuechler's other men in the west of the city, the entire force would then sweep in one large arm south, to the heart of the city, killing or capturing all Polish soldiers who resisted.


The officer stood there waiting for several moments, like a statue. He didn't move, nor hardly breathe as he stared at his watch. When the large hand struck the '12' he looked up from his solitary statuesk form. In front of him four batteries of 88mm field cannons sat. Dawn was just ending as the sun was now fully coming over the horizon.

"Achtung!"

The crews worked quickly and within a minute were ready.

"Fire!"

With a roar all nine of the cannons fired. All accross the German line artillery batteries and companies opened fire with their cannons. Flight after flight of Stuka Dive bombers and He 111 bombers flew over the city, raining down the fire of Hell.

The bombardment lasted until the appointed time. Then the advance came.

FDR shook his head. Britan has not answered....and so it is, he said silently.

Macarthur now had the Naval force he needed. Although he would need at least 8 months, he was confident that Japan would be beaten back.

To Beijing:

Prepare for attack, assisted from the Phillipinies. Wait at least 1 year.

Poland was screwed, and Smigly-Rydz knew it. They had lost this fight, it was inevitable by now. He had about thirty infantry divisions left, all but few severely beaten, plus some completely shattered units trying to reorganize in the rear areas. He had divisioned his forces in three armies. Army of North, Army of Warsaw and the Army of South.

Southern army tried to keep lines East from Krakow, running frmo Hungarian border all the way to the Southern suburbans of Warsaw. Northern army was holding positions East from Warsaw while Warsaw army was concentrated in and around the city itself. Northern had seven, Southern 13 and Warsaw 10 divisions.
Plus these he had three cavalry "corps", each with less than five thousand men. Most of it had been converted to infantry while the rest were either killed or in POW camps by now. Mostly killed. These corps, together with the motorized brigade and armoured division formed the reserve and were consentrated halfway between Warsaw and Krakow.


In the Warsaw area, desperate attempts to fortify city were being made through day and night. They all knew it was in vain, but that didn't make the slightest difference. Warsaw would cost the Germans, and it would cost them dear.

"Prime Minister, our Informants in Hawaii have reported that the American Carriers have left the Port, information from Japanese Citizens in the Phillipines show that they have reinforced the Phillipines. There are also rumours that they will be helping the Chinese!" Takazumi said as read from a telegram.
"Why are they doing this?" Shouted Nobuyuki We have done nothing to them and we have Good trade Relations with them. I wish to speak to the American Oil and Metal Corporations immediately, maybe they can settle this aggressive behaviour" Fucken Bastards, do they dare Humiliate the Asian Race once more with their Disgustingly arrogant attitudes?This is why Japan must Liberate Asia, so that the White man will no longer look down upon us.America may be rich, but wealth have made its people soft, True Hardworking Warrior Spirit will crush them then he thought about how the Americans have now exposed their precious Carriers in easily attackable location Perhaps a swift attack may stop them, but such discussion will have to hold, we have China to worry about

To: The Governments of US and Great Britain
From: The Government of Australia

It has come to our attention that Japanese ambitions have put some of your territories at risk, and we also feel threatened by their sudden seemingly hostile actions. We have decided to open our ports to your ships and our land to your troops. However, we request that you train our troops and supply them in return.

I hope we can come to an agreement. Thank you.

Polish-Soviet Border, 18th of September 1939
The Red Army hadn't been very discrete in their previous days preperations, although they had still taken the effort to hide the exact number of forces arrayed on the Polish border. It was really nothing that the Poles could handle, especially as they prepared themselves to be crushed by German mechanization. Under normal circumstances the Red Army would have waited until a bit later, but the Poles had rearranged their forces mostly against the Germans, and it was now time to crush the little which Poland could muster in the east and roll the Red Army right up to the eastern banks of the Bug River. At the front was General Shestapalov, preparing his 45th Rifle Division, which would need all the preperation it could get - indeed, it seemed as if there were enough enough replacement parts to support operations in Poland for more than two weeks, and ammunition was low as well. Obviously, logistics was not a strong suit of STAVKA. Fortunately for the 45th Shestapalov was a more foward thinking commander, something he had worked to stiffle until now, fearing that he would meet his fate at the Gulags. Nevertheless, now that the Soviet Union would actually go into war perhaps he could show some inginuity - just like Zhukov had done at Khalkin Gol in August. He muttered to himself, although outloud, "Son of a bitch."

His chief of staff eyed him and asked, "What's wrong comrade?"

The general shook his head and failed to respond. Instead he looked straight across the border, lifted his arm and then swung it to point his finger into Poland, "It is time."

Overhead, the sound of Soviet fighters rumbled through the skies as they quickly began to occupy Polish airspace, where German aircraft were not flying (of course). Air power would not play a huge part in this invasion, mostly because air superiority was already achieved by the Germans. Instead, the Red Army would focus on their immense ground deployments and use aircraft in a more tactical manner - that's if they could pull it off. In any case, within fifteen minutes the 45th Rifle Division, with the 62nd on its right flank, and the 87th on the left, began to roll into Poland. Ahead of them charged the 215th mechanized division in cooperation with the 5th Cavalry Corps, made up of the 3rd Cavalry Division and the 14th Cavalry Division. Much to Shestapalov's dissaproval, those were the only armored divisions in the entire front! Nevertheless, they gladly began deep operations into Eastern Poland, bypassing areas of major Polish resistance and sweeping into their rear, cutting off communiation to the Poles defending against the German thrusts against Warsaw. The rifle divisions mopped up anything that was bypassed.

The armor made quite a spectacle of itself that day, capitalizing on the fact that Polish resistance had been absorbed by the Germans. The 3rd Cavalry Division was commanded by a man named General Korolev, who had once been an artillery commander. By the first day they had threatened to cut off Bialystok, in Eastern Poland, but had run into heavy Polish resistance just north of the city, before they could hook around it. The avant'guard of the division was a squad of four BT-7 light tanks, their 45mm guns portruding from their turrets, although lacking any overhang over the hull of the vehicle. Although relatively light, they could punch through anything the Polish Army had, and even through the Panzer I and II, while holding its own against the Panzer III and some variants of the Panzer IV. Despite this, there were rumours of a new tank to enter production by the next year - one to replace all others. But this was the future. The first sighting of Polish defensive positions couldn't really be considered a sighting, per se. They had been ambushed in the village of Wasilkow, about six or seven kilometers north of Bialystok.

The tank commander slapped the helmet of the gunner in range as he missed the Polish machinegunner sitting in one of the top window of the house infront of them. The driver had already pulled back, while the BT-7 infront of him slowly radiated black smoke from inside its hull - a 37mm shell had penetrated the side armor of the tank, cooking the engine. The crew had been gunned down by the machinegunner, despite the other BT-7s still being around. The machinegunner made a second appearance and this time the gunner swung the main gun around and elevated it, putting a shell right into the wall of the house, effectively terminating the Pole. With that, the squad continued into the town as behind them motorized infantry poured. The clearing of the small town took at least two hours, and those two hours postponed the Soviet advance. Nevertheless, the 5th Cavalry Division made terrific progress, achieving near forty kilometers the first day. In other words, Poland's death was now guaranteed and so were Soviet claims over Eastern Poland.

Stalin would be pleased...

September 20, 1939 - 30 miles South-West of Warsaw

General Guderian stood in the command cupola of his private Panzer III tank. Occasionally he would take rides with it into a combat area where he could appraise the situation as need be.

Krakow had caused Guderian and the rest of Army Group Center three days. Even after heavy assault the castle had held, the Poles fighting over every foot of rubble. Finally a concentrated attack of paratroopers using flame throwers and a massed infantry attack had taken it and killed all remaining Polish troops.

Now the entire Army Group was once again advancing. From Guderian's reports Kluge and Keuchler's armies had already reached Warsaw and in the process of taking it. Guderian was not one to miss out on a battle, and thus organized the Army Group Center, taking over its command by orders from General Walther von Brauchitsch.

The Poles had taken up a position to the east of Krakow, reports from the Luftwaffe observers however said that they had yet to cross the Vistula. Guderian was curiuos as to this, because it seemed an extremely large tactical mistake. Now he had the Poles between the River and his panzers.

The army group center, containing four Panzer divisions, 4 mechanized divisions, and 23 infantry divisions. The 4th and 28th Cavalry brigades were also a part, but were used more as scouts by Guderian.

Guderian set the Panzers to attack straight onto the Polish defenders, drive into them and into the river. The mechanized infantry would be in support and the other regular infantry would be marching behind in support of all. Guderian had detailed the Luftwaffe to continue its bombing campaign on any major concentration of Polish troops.

"Driver, take us up the ridge," Guderian called down into the belly of the tank.

"Ja herr General," the driver responded. The engine rumbled and it's tracks churned through the dirt and grass and went up the side of a hill. Over the hill they came and reached the top. There Guderian slapped the side of the tank, signalling to stop.

Before him was a spread advance of Panzers and infantry. Guderian took out his binoculars from his satchel and looked into the distance. He could just make out a small town and what looked like several lines of trenches, barb-wire was even being driven into the ground.

Guderian took out his radio. "Captain Falschrim? Ja, this is General Guderian. I've observed a Polish defensive line about seven or more miles to your front. It'll be dark in a few hours so halt your advance at the nearest ridge and hold position. I'll have the Luftwaffe start a pre-attack bombardment."

"Jawul herr General," Captain Falschrim said. "I've sent a few scouts in advance as well, we'll prepare an attack corridor in the moring."

"Very well captain, Guderian out."

((I don't actually know anything about the norwegian political process. A shame.))
It had taken days of empassioned speaches, face to face talk and blatant posturing for the media, but King Haakon was finally confident that the measure would be passed by the Storting's vote. That just left the sick feeling that Haakon had in the pit of his gut. Generals Fleisher and Ruge were definate that Norway needed to send a message to Germany now. General Laake however was still ardently opposed to any aggravation of Germany and had made his views clear he was doing that now, hoping to convince the Storting to change it's direction at the last minute. Listening to the man, Haakon feared if he were right.
"Remind me again why we are right?" he whispered to Fleisher, who was sitting behind him.
Fleisher's voice did not hide a trace of doubt. "Hitler has shown his true colors and we will have to fight him, at some point. That fight won't be like Poland. We are going to see the bastards coming a mile away. And we are not going to make them one ounce stronger."
Haakon nodded. This had to be done. Norway was at war, whether they knew it or not. Europe was at war. Hell, the whole world was at war. Haakon rose to give his speach.
---------------

The condemnation of the German invasion of Poland passed easily. There was no doubt, even among the most isolationist of the labor party, that Hitler had been completely unreasoning and tyranical there. The iron embargo against Germany passed narrowly. No one doubted that Hitler would not like this measure. Many furthermore feared the economic harm to both Norway and Swedan. But the arguments of the King had won the Parliment over, Norway would send Hitler the most painful message of all.

---------------

"Mister Hitler. We the people of Norway completely condemn your unjust aggression against the nation of Poland. We can not help you build your milatary in good conquest, seeing the aggressive ends to which it will be put. We are therefore immediately banning all Norwegian shipping of goods that will help you in your war effort, whether this be from Norwegian ports or cargo carried by Norwegian merchant vessels worldwide. These bans will remain in place until you turn from this aggressive course."

((Norway has quite an impressive merchant navy, 1024 ships totalling 4 million tons.))

Churchill was relieved. Instead of forceably seizing the iron ores and stopping their shipping to the Germans, the leaders of Norway have cut off all trading with the Germans themselves. Now was the time to offer assistance:

To the leaders of Norway
We are deeply impressed with what means you have taken against Hitler to slow down his militaristic activities. Hence we are willing to offer any assistance should Hitler attempt to seize the iron ore's forcebly, ores that are so important to his future plans.

Signed, Prime Minister Chamberlain of the United Kingdom

Hitler was suitably angry over the telegram when he recieved it. Some of his aides even fled the room in terror, for the Fuhrer had screamed and smashed his foot to the ground. Minister Ribbentrop almost ran himself when he saw Hitler's reaction.

When Hitler had calmed down and smoothed his hair back out of his eyes, he sat down. He sat still as a statue for a long time, Ribbentrop knew better than to try and disturb the Fuhrer, for he knew that he was thinking hard. Finally Hitler turned to Ribbentrop.

"So they [Norwegians] have broken their promise of neutrality." He said it more as a statement of fact rather than as a question.

Ribbentrop nodded. "Yes mein Fuhrer. It would appear so. I am currently working on speaking with the Swedish government for the possibility of getting the ore directly from them, instead of going through Narvik. Since the ore comes from Swedish mines, if we create a way to get it directly from Sweden, then this new rise in affairs will mean little."

Hitler nodded but at the same time shook his head in a manner to say that he agreed, yet had something else in mind.

"No, we must do more than this...but in the mean time I cannot allow this...this insult to go unpunished." A new light entered Hitler's eyes. "Ribbentrop, you are to contact that Molotov man, in Moscow. I want you to begin contructing a new treaty and pact with him. Both of you are to find one, this time more towards economical aims."

Hitler shifted his gaze to his foreign minister. "Understood?"

"Ja mein Fuhrer, alles clar," Ribbentrop said simply. "If I might say so, Albert Speer was wishing to have a conference with you within the next few days or weeks whenever possible."

Hitler brightened at the mention of the Reich's 1st Architect. Speer was one of his closest friends and advisors.

"Yes, on your way out tell him I will see him in two days. I have no meetings after that," Hitler said. He smiled and waved Ribbentrop away in dismissal.


Secret Telegram

To: Vyacheslav Molotov, Moscow; Foreign Affairs

From: Joachim Ribbentrop, Berlin; Foreign Affairs

Greetings Vyacheslav. I am contacting you at the behest of my Fuhrer Adolf Hitler. Due to the recent actions of Norway and the British, mein Fuhrer wishes for me to speak with you on a matter of economical matters concerning a strengthening of ties between our two nations. If possible I will fly out to Moscow within the week and we can speak then on all the Fuhrer wishes between us. Is this satisfactory? Well wishes.

Joachim Ribbentrop
Reich Foreign Affairs

"This is not good." said Demetrios. "The Russians and Germans are carving up Poland as we speak and the other nations may not be able to react in time. The Americans, for all we know, may not even help. What is our plan Mr. President?" The President stared out of his window toward the city of Athens. "Prepare the army. Call up all reserves and call for militias to form. Open the armories to the military and get the factories up to 100% work. Deploy our units to the northern border and our western coast. Deploy all ships along our Western side. Get any air units(ooc: dont know if i have any) to the north-west. Get me the military commanders and police chief." he looked at his aide and he turned serious "Go" he said. One solemn word. go