Grossbeeren - 23 August 1813
Historical Background
Battle had been joined. Bertrand’s IV Corps had become engaged at Blankenfelde, Reynier’s VII Corps, composed primarily of Saxons, had come up against von Bulow’s larger German/Swedish corps in good defensive terrain. Still by 2 pm, those Saxons had pushed through the woods in front of Grossbeeren and thrown the Prussian defenders out of the village. The victorious Saxons in Grossbeeren were in danger because their position was exposed to a flank attack and could easily be overwhelmed. The Prussians sensed this opportunity and moved forward to the attack. Reynier ordered Lecoq’s Division to advance and protect the French left flank, but it was forced back by the Prussian artillery. The French guns were brought forward to silence them, but the ensuing artillery engagement served only to neutralize both sides’ artillery.
Soon von Bulow’s reserves attacked Grossbeeren from front and flank and retook it. A half-hearted Saxon counter attack failed, and Reynier was unable to rally the dispirited Saxons for another attempt, leaving Reynier no choice but to retire. Oudinot realized his advance toward Berlin had failed and ordered a complete withdrawal.
The stage is set. The battle lines are drawn and you are in command. Can you change history?
Set-Up Order
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Battle Notes
Prussian Army
• Commander: von Bülow
• 5 Command Cards & 4 Iron Will Counters
• Optional 4 Tactician Cards
4 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 4 |
French Army
• Commander: Oudinot
• 5 Command Cards
• Optional 3 Tactician Cards
• Move First
8 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 1 | 4 |
Victory
10 Banners
Special Rules
• The two town hexes of Grossbeeren, along with the Windmill and adjacent hill hex, form a Temporary Majority Victory Banner Objective worth 2 Victory Banners for the side that occupies the absolute majority of these hexes at the start of the turn (Temporary Majority Victory Banner Turn Start)