Since I was unable to try the Operation Bragation scenario, I decided to replay the Battle of El Alamein - this time, as a British infantry officer.
In addition to the main tank battle, a complement of New Zealand and Indian infantry had been given the task of defending the British rear from flanking panzer attacks. Although located on a table adjacent to the main battle, the secondary theater was considered a separate engagement. Two groups of Italian assault troops, supported by artillery and armored cars, were given the task of seizing two strategic hills. If they could dislodge the tenacious defenders, they could cut off British reinforcements to the main engagement.
I was in command of two New Zealand rifle companies on the left flank and center. One was situated on a high ridge, and included three 6lb anti-tank guns; and the second was located in a ravine between two hills. My Indian allies, who were fearless in battle and received a +1 bonus to morale, were defending another ridge on the right flank. A heavy weapons platoon, including machine guns, mortars and anti-tank rifles, had reinforced their position.
All our units were dug-in, receiving a +1 bonus to defense.
Our enemy had deployed four companies of Italian infantry, along with a Sturmgeschütz assault gun, Pz III platoon, an artillery battery and some Italian L3/35 armored cars.