So, you wanna be a priest?

[Pete Atack]

I also agree that the presence of a senior NCO w/i the US ranks will add an interesting angle (be it the company 1SG, or Battalion Sergeant Major type), although, typically, the 1SG did not deploy with line units into the field.
As for the NVA / VC, I think the game covers most of the important figures. A political officer would create some neat variations, but from what I've read, we generally disliked by the infantry types (the political officers would whip everyone into a frenzy, but conveniently avoid the firefights). As for the VC, the only thing that pops into mind would be a counter representing political / military cadre. These men were very important to the recruiting and training of VC units and frequently found themselves the targets of ambushes or 'snatch' missions by US units for intel purposes. Other than that, civilians in the villages always created problems, but I don't know if we want to venture there at this level of the game.
Any ideas?
Pete

[Pete Atack]

Mark,
as for individual characters for a US counter mix, how about a Kit Carson scout. They usually weren't much in the way of trigger pullers, but may add an ability for scouting or detecting ambushes.
And I'm not sure about the level of off map support (arty, air, mortars)in the game, but maybe a Forward Observer / Fire Support Officer to add accuracy to indirect fires?

Pete

[Mark H. Walker]

Hi All,

Thanks for the suggestions. I like the idea of the Kit Carson scout. Where can I find out more about those men? The game will also probably include civilians.

Best,
Mark

[Pete Atack]

Here's a neat link to a first hand account of Kit Carson scouts (http://www.bonsai-american-style.com/Sam.htm).
From a quick glance and from what I know the KCs were ex-VC / NVA who came over on the Chu Hoi repatriation program and volunteered to work with US infantry units as scouts. Most acted as pointman for US squads and had a US slackman as a partner. They were generally dressed and equipped to look like VC / NVA to increase their utility as scouts. Hope that helps,

Pete