Good day m113apc
I don't think Don was harsh, and as you said he answered the question. With these types of questions the Guys are always hoping they won't have to answer them again. I've been there myself. As for that feature I always turned it off because with the size of campaigns I fight it only increased the time it took to play a game.
As for ambushes I believe you said you have the CD version, with that one of the "extra" features is the ability to order units to fire at certain types of units, this combined was the range setting feature can help you set up some interesting "ambushes".
I have had successes with small AT weapons and Snipers. Maybe that would give you the tactic you desire with WWII.
Bob out
