Sword Point (13 July, 1987)*
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Adapted from the book Sword Point, by Harold Coyle*
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Date: 13 July 1987*
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Battle Location: On the Southern Edge of the Dasht-e Lut, Iran.*
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Battle Type: USMC v. Soviet Meeting Engagement.*
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Fictional Historical Background:   *
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Based upon the novel  by Harold Coyle (Sword Point), the USSR invades Iran seeking access to warm water ports into the Gulf of Oman.  Faced with an antagonistic Iranian government who considers both the US and the USSR to be the greater/lesser Satan, US forces lead a coalition to intercede in the conflict and stabilize the region.  US forces move north from the Iranian southern ports to meet the advancing Soviet armored columns.   The US and USSR must face an additional adversary from the remnants of the Iranian armed forces and paramilitary.*
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This scenario is set in locations described in the fictional account, using modified topographic maps adapted to the battle maps in the book, as well as detailed descriptions of terrain features, adjusted for the almost 30 years since the books publication.  Adjustments in force levels are made for play balance in this scenario, departing from the fictional account in Sword Point.*
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Scenario Background:*
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You command elements of the 2nd Battalion, 28th Marine Regiment (2-28th) 3-LAR (Light Armor Recce) deployed along the Southern Edge of the Dasht-e Lut, one of Iran's largest interior basins.  The 17th Airborne and the 28th Marines have expanded their beachhead in Iran, and now are holding the right flank.  Soviet forces have progressed southward, and a series of small unit battles have resulted from probes from both sides.  Elements of the Soviet 2-25th MRR now are engaged in Reconnaissance-in-Force towards Fahraj.  You command a mixed force comprised of three companies of LAV-25's supported by Combined Anti-Armor Teams (CAAT).  A Marine M60A3 RISE company is in support.*
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Our available forces are spread thinly.  As such, 3-LAR must adjust not only to perform the reconnaissance role, but potentially attack/defensive operations.  You are ordered to move to contact, and fix the probing Soviet Forces until the tanks arrive.  B-Coy is in the lead.  A and C-Coy's are in train some distance behind, with the rear guard comprised of the tank company. You have one 155mm section for support. *
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The exact Soviet unit composition, deployment and axis of advance is not known.  In essence, you're moving in blind. *
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The Soviets are looking for a gap in our defense to throw their 89th MRD towards Bandar Abbas.  Don't provide them with one. *
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Good Hunting!*
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Design by: Thomas Garlock*

