Montmirail - 11 February 1814
Historical Background
After his victory at Champaubert, Napoleon found himself in the midst of Blucher’s forces. In Napoleon’s mind it was the central position again, a tactical position from which he achieved much success in the past. Blucher ordered both Sacken and Yorck to concentrate on Montmirail. Yorck, however, was hesitant to move too far from the bridge crossing the Marne and did not move quickly. This separation of enemy forces was just what Napoleon was looking for and he took the initiative to move against Sacken’s Russians.
Sacken turned his Russians to meet the French, believing Yorck’s Prussian Corps was just to the north. He saw only conscripts between his corps and Montmirail, and attacked. Ricard’s division of conscripts fought valiantly against superior Russian numbers. Finally the Old Guard arrived to save the day, shortly before Yorck’s advance guard appeared. Napoleon, knowing the Prussians could join the battle at any time, decided to commit his Old Guard units. Ney led the Old Guard assault that rolled up the Russian left flank. The Young Guard and Ricard’s reformed division now advanced and broke the Russian line. The Guard Cavalry exploited the gap and swept the battlefield.
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
Russian Army
• Commander: Sacken
• 5 Command Cards
• 3 Tactician Cards
• Move First
7 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
French Army
• Commander: Napoleon
• 6 Command Cards
• 6 Tactician Cards
4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
Victory
6 Banners
Special Rules
• French line infantry are conscripts and do not receive one additional die in melee when attacking an enemy infantry unit.
• The Petit Morin stream is fordable.
• Pre-Battle Mother Russia Roll rule is in effect. Saber and cavalry rolls have no effect.