Difference between revisions of "4th Lyran Regulars"

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| image   = [[file:4th Lyran Regulars.png|180px]]
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| image     = [[file:Lyranregulars04th.png|150px]]
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| nickname = Tropical Lightning<ref>''House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)'', p. 77 Regimental Nicknames (continued) - 4th Lyran Regulars nickname noted.</ref>
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| Designation  = Fourth Lyran Regulars
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| parent formation = [[Lyran Regulars]]
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| formed    =
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| formed  = n/a
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| Disbanded  = ca. [[3140]]
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| year    = 3069
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| Previous Designation =  
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| unitname = Fourth Lyran Regulars
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| Nickname    = Tropic Lightning<ref>''House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)'', p. 77: "Regimental Nicknames (continued)"</ref>
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| Affiliation  = [[Lyran Commonwealth]]
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| Parent Command = [[Lyran Regulars]]
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| Sub-Command  =  
 
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The '''Fourth Lyran Regulars''' was originally a frontline [[BattleMech]] [[Regiment]] in the service of [[Lyran Commonwealth]].<ref>''House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)'', p. 118: "Unit listings are strictly BattleMech regiments".</ref> The unit was noted historically for holding grudges and for hating the [[Draconis Combine]] and then later the [[Clans]].<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87: "Unit's passions for grudges towards particular enemies popping up over the decades".</ref>
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==Unit Description==
 
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The '''Fourth Lyran Regulars''' was originally a frontline [[BattleMech]] [[Regiment]] in the service of [[Lyran Commonwealth]].<ref>''House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)'', p. 118, "Unit information found originally in House Steiner sourcebook. Unit listings are strictly BattleMech regiments".</ref> The unit was noted historically for holding grudges and from hating [[Draconis Combine]] and then later the [[Clans]].<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87, "Unit's passions for grudges towards particular enemy popping up over the decades".</ref>
 
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
 
=== Star League Era ===
 
=== Star League Era ===
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The regiments of the Lyran Regulars were prone to being disbanded and reactivated as needed; each time a regiment was reactivated, it would be populated with a mix of re-enlisted veterans and fresh recruits, before being assigned to a garrison posting to free up a line regiment for active service. During peacetime, the Regulars would then disband down to a much smaller size as a brigade, awaiting the next time they would be called on. The Fourth were an active [[regiment]] in [[2765]], stationed on [[Elume]], and were responsible for causing a stir within the [[Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces]]. The focus of this attention was [[Colonel]] [[Michelle Eanes]], the Fourth's Commanding Officer; Colonel Eanes had married one of her subordinate officers, [[Hauptmann]] [[Liza Stansfield]]. The LCAF had responded by attempting to post Stansfield to another command, but Stansfield was sueing to have the posting overturned, citing that military regulations allowed for fraternization between officers, only forbidding relationships were one officer was reporting directly to another. The LCAF High Command responded by making life as difficult as possible for the Fourth to put as much pressure on the two officers as possible, while their case worked its way through the Commonwealth's military courts.<ref name="FR2765:LCAFp15">''Field Report 2765: LCAF'', p. 15, "Lyran Regulars"</ref>
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The regiments of the Lyran Regulars were prone to being disbanded and reactivated as needed; each time a regiment was reactivated, it would be populated with a mix of reenlisted veterans and fresh recruits, before being assigned to a garrison posting to free up a line regiment for active service. After these line regiments returned home, the Regulars drew down to a brigade, awaiting the next time they would be called on. The Fourth were an active [[regiment]] in [[2765]], stationed on [[Elume]], and were responsible for causing a stir within the [[Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces]]. The focus of this attention was [[Colonel]] [[Michelle Eanes]], the commanding officer; Colonel Eanes had married one of her subordinate officers, [[Hauptmann]] [[Liza Stansfield]]. The LCAF responded by attempting to post Stansfield to another command, but Stansfield was suing to have the posting overturned, citing that military regulations allowed for fraternization between officers, only forbidding relationships where one officer was reporting directly to another. The LCAF High Command responded by making life as difficult as possible for the 4th to put as much pressure on the two officers as possible, while their case worked its way through the Commonwealth's military courts.<ref name="FR2765:LCAFp15">''Field Report 2765: LCAF'', p. 15, "Lyran Regulars"</ref>
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=== First Succession War ===
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The unit was still on Elume at the dawn of the [[First Succession War]]. By the end of the fighting, they still held their post on the world, but the heavy-weight regiment had been reduced to under a quarter of its original strength.<ref>''First Succession War (sourcebook)'', p. 139</ref>
  
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===The Fourth Succession War===
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=== Second Succession War ===
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With the signing of the Alliance between the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth, the two nations moved secretly into state of war. The Regulars would be part of [[Fourth Succession War]] offensive named [[Operation Gotterdammerung|Operation Götterdämmerung]], which would challenge as many [[Draconis Combine]] combat regiments as possible, with secondary goal of seizing worlds. The Regulars were stationed on their homeworld of [[Menkent]] in the [[Tamar Pact]].<ref>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'', pp. 43-44, "Goal of Operation Gotterdammerung and where the Regulars were station prior to the war began".</ref>  
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During the scramble to rebuild after the First Succession War, the 4th received replacement 'Mechs and pilots, though it was not enough to bring the regiment fully up to strength. At the start of the [[Second Succession War]], the unit was a little over two battalions in strength and still posted to Elume. The replacements were even heavier than the unit's original composition, tipping the 4th Regulars into the assault regiment category. Over the course of the war, they lost roughly half of this number, ending the war on [[Moore]] at 39 percent strength.<ref>''Second Succession War (sourcebook)'', p. 99</ref>
  
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====Invasion Actions====
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=== Fourth Succession War ===
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In the beginning of the campaign, Fourth Lyran Regulars scheduled attacks was against [[Orestes]] where they would take the world. Then by October as part of the "Follow Up" attacks on the Combine, the Regulars would take [[Aubisson]].  As last part of the final attacks for this phase of the operations, the Regulars would travel to [[Camlann (DC)|Camlann]] to take world for the commonwealth.<ref>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'', p. 44, 51, 59, "Follow Up Invasion" - Only brief mentioning of the Fourth Lyran Regulars targeted worlds is mentioned in Gotterdammerung's text. Only the attack on Aubisson has more than a sentence mentioned, none mention the unit in name other on schedule attacks.</ref>
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The 4th Lyran Regulars took an active part in the [[Fourth Succession War]]. During [[Operation GÖTTERDÄMMERUNG]], the major [[Lyran Commonwealth]] offensive of the [[Fourth Succession War]], the unit deployed alongside the [[Third Donegal Guards|3rd Donegal Guards]] for the invasion of [[Orestes]].<ref name="NAIS4SWp44">''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'', p. 44-45, "Operation GÖTTERDÄMMERUNG"</ref> Then, in the exploitation phase that began on the 21st of October [[3028]] to capitalize on the successes of the initial wave of attacks,<ref name="NAIS4SWp59">''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'', p. 59, "Follow-up Invasions"</ref> the 4th Lyran Regulars and the 3rd Donegal Guards joined the [[Twenty-second Skye Rangers|22nd Skye Rangers]] in the invasion of [[Grumium]].<ref name="NAIS4SWp44"/> The conquest of Grumium was considered a significant emotional victory, as Grumium had been a Lyran world prior to being conquered by the Combine.<ref name="NAIS4SWp59"/> The 4th then joined in the final wave of attacks launched under Operation GÖTTERDÄMMERUNG, capturing [[Camlann (DC)|Camlann]].<ref name="NAIS4SWp44"/>
  
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===Post-Fourth Succession War and the Ronin War===
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===Post–Fourth Succession War and Ronin War===
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After the Fourth Succession War, the unit would see worlds they had help gather for their home providence of the Tamar Pact given way to the newly formed [[Free Rasalhague Republic]] in [[3033]]. A [[3034|year later]] these hard-won worlds would come under attack by rogue Draconis Combine regiments attempt to retake the Republic for the House Kurita.<ref>''Handbook: Brush Wars'', p. 92, "The Ronin War year noted, and its relevance to the Regulars".</ref> By this time, the unit has been transferred to [[Blue Diamond]] as its new garrison world. Without break in fighting, the unit took advantage of the situation and conducted series of raids against the Draconis Combine as means vent their frustration forcing the House Steiner to give up worlds for formation of the Republic.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87, "Fourth Lyran Regulars' back ground history, reveals the unit Tamar background and its actions during the Ronin War".</ref>
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After the Fourth Succession War, the unit saw the worlds they had helped conquer for their home province of the Tamar Pact given away to the newly formed [[Free Rasalhague Republic]] in [[3033]]. A [[3034|year later]] these hard-won worlds came under attack by rogue Draconis Combine regiments attempting to retake the Republic for House Kurita.<ref>''Handbook: Brush Wars'', p. 92, "The Ronin War year noted, and its relevance to the Regulars".</ref> By this time, the unit has been transferred to [[Blue Diamond]] as its new garrison world. Without a break in fighting, the unit took advantage of the situation and conducted a series of raids against the Draconis Combine as a means to vent their frustration forcing the House Steiner to give up worlds for formation of the Republic.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87, "Fourth Lyran Regulars' history, reveals the unit's Tamar background and its actions during the Ronin War".</ref>
  
 
===The War of 3039===
 
===The War of 3039===
 
The Regulars were assigned as part of the attack forces used in the [[FedCom]]'s invasion of the Draconis Combine in the [[War of 3039]].
 
The Regulars were assigned as part of the attack forces used in the [[FedCom]]'s invasion of the Draconis Combine in the [[War of 3039]].
  
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In the first wave of the conflict, the Regulars were part of the assault force assigned to attack [[Konstance]]. They arrived in April of [[3039]] with [[Fourth Crucis Lancers]] and mercenary force, [[Mobile Fire]] to take the system. On the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide CO2] laden world, due to mechanical problems was the [[Twenty-second Dieron Regulars]]. The FedCom expedition planned to conduct a two-prong invasion of the planet, taking the capital of Ishtalla and important sites on the continent of Epigaus. The Regulars were assigned to Task Force Hope, the Task Force commander [[Leutnant-General|Leftnant-General]] Michael Bradbury directing the Task Force to land 40 kilometers outside the city of Lazarus Bay on Epigaus.
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In the first wave of the conflict, the Regulars were part of the assault force assigned to attack [[Konstance]]. They arrived on 28 April, [[3039]] with the [[Fourth Crucis Lancers]] and the mercenary regiment [[Mobile Fire]] to take the system. The attack commenced roughly two weeks after other opening attacks, such as those on [[Kessel]] and [[Vega]], but JumpShip problems and a lack of coordination delayed the operation. Opposing the FedCom forces on the [[w:Carbon dioxide|CO<sub>2</sub>]]-blanketed world was the [[Twenty-second Dieron Regulars|22nd Dieron Regulars]]. The FedCom expedition planned to conduct a two-pronged invasion of the planet, taking the capital of Ishtalla and important sites on the continent of Epigaus. The Regulars were assigned to Task Force Hope, with the Regulars' CO [[Leutnant-General]] Michael Bradbury as its commander. He chose to land forty kilometers outside the city of Lazarus Bay on Epigaus.
  
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The Regulars moved into the city where they found a battalion of the Twenty-second Dieron Regulars with conventional [[Combat Vehicle|Armor]] forces dug in waiting for them. The Dieron 'Mechs struck first, conducting a series of quick flanking attacks.  The Fourth Lyran Regulars countered with their own raids.  These fast attacks from both sides would make the battlefield quick and ever changing situation. The quick-paced battle quickly used up the Task Force's allotment of spare parts, but the Fourth and its mercenary allies gained control of the city and its port facilities. After securing the city, the Regulars' allies in Ishtalla would note only token resistance in comparison to the Regulars' fight for Lazarus Bay, leaving the threat of remaining components of the Twenty-second Dieron on the loose. During their occupation of the city and its surroundings, the Fourth and its allies would suffer from a series of strikes conducted against them by Dieron Regulars.  The Combine troops had taken to using civilian submarine transports and using them to strike them with no means for the Regulars hit back. Tensions between the Regulars' leadership and that of the Crucis Lancers developed, with arguments over seniority. The High Command's ability to guide the War had been knocked out with the unsuccessful assassination attempt on General [[Nondi Steiner]] on [[Vega]].
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The Regulars moved into the city, where they found a battalion of the 22nd Dieron Regulars with additional [[Combat Vehicle|Armor]] forces dug-in and waiting for them. The Dieron 'Mechs struck first, conducting a series of quick flanking attacks, but the 4th Lyran Regulars met speed with speed. Lightning raids from both units meant the battlefield was an ever-changing situation. The accelerated pace of battle chewed through the task force's spare parts, but the 4th and its mercenary allies gained control of the city and its port facilities. After securing the city, the Regulars' allies in Ishtalla met only token resistance in comparison to the Regulars' fight for Lazarus Bay, leaving the remaining Dieron Regulars on the loose. The Combine troops wasted little time, beginning a series of attacks after the AFFC occupied the world's cities that often included arming civilian submarine transports for hit-and-run attacks. Tensions between Leutnant-General Bradbury and his Crucis Lancers counterpart, [[Major General]] [[Charles Duncan]], developed as the battle turned into a police action. Bradbury believed he should have authority as the most senior Lyran officer in a Lyran theater, while Duncan pointed to his longer service record and status as an RCT commander. The high command kept the two officers under control until July 12, when [[ISF]] agents attacked General [[Nondi Steiner]] on [[Vega]], decapitating the theater leadership and eliminating their moderating influence on the officers' feud.<ref>''Historical: War of 3039'', pp. 31-32</ref>
  
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By August, the expedition had failed to convince High Command to dispatch reinforcements and naval assets to the planet to help hunt down the 22nd Dieron. On the 19th, Draconis Combine reinforcements in the form of the [[Third Dieron Regulars]] had arrived ''via'' a pirate point. Led by ''[[Tai-sho (rank)|Tai-sho]]'' James Kurenal, he directed the Third Dieron to a landing zone south of Lazarus Bay. The Fourth Lyran Regulars now faced a heavier force, but had hoped their lighter and faster machines would be able to outmaneuver the incoming Kuritan force. The Fourth Lyran moved swiftly, surprising the incoming Third Dieron who were prepared to conduct a city assault. Two battalions of Lyran Regulars drove straight to the HQ of the Third Dieron, however due to earthworks erected to protect the Kurita infantry, this caused the fast-moving 'Mechs of the 4th Lyrans to slow down enough for the Third Dieron's command Company to take advantage of their maneuver. Kurita force led by ''Tai-sho'' Kurenal charged into the flank of the Fourth Lyran's attack force with great velocity and venom that it causes the Fourth Lyrans' commander to retreat which would be rout. Damaged inflict by the Kurita hard-hitting damaged would leave long-lasting psychological damage to Lyran Regulars for decades to come.  A company Kurita troops would cause two battalion of worth their numbers to withdraw in route, something they would refuse to believe a generation later.
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By August, both Bradbury and Duncan were petitioning their respective high commands for reinforcements and naval assets to help hunt down the 22nd Dieron. But as none was sent, the world fell into a stalemate, with the FedCom forces holding the cities and unable to pin down the DCMS survivors. On the 19th, Draconis Combine reinforcements in the form of the [[Third Dieron Regulars]] jumped into the system at a pirate point. The unit's leader, ''[[Tai-sho (rank)|Tai-sho]]'' James Kurenal, directed the 3rd Dieron to a landing zone south of Lazarus Bay, where they began an artillery barrage of the fortified positions the FedCom troops held. The 4th Lyran Regulars now faced a heavier force, who were giving them the choice to come out and fight or allow themselves to be bombarded. The 4th Lyran moved swiftly, surprising the incoming 3rd Dieron, who were prepared to conduct a city assault. Two battalions of Lyran Regulars drove straight to the HQ of the 3rd Dieron; however earthworks erected to protect the Kurita infantry caused the fast-moving 'Mechs of the 4th Lyrans to slow down enough for the 3rd Dieron's command Company to take advantage of their maneuver. The Combine force led by ''Tai-sho'' Kurenal charged into the flank of the 4th Lyrans' attack force with such velocity and venom that advanced units told Bradbury they were engaged by at least a heavy battalion. Bradbury called for the unit to pull back, which then became a rout. The damage inflicted by the Kurita counterattack left long-lasting psychological damage to the Lyran Regulars for decades to come, with the unit refusing to acknowledge they had been turned back by a mere company.
  
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The Lt. General Bradley would order the Regulars to fall back to the Lazarus Bay. On September 3rd, the surviving elements of the Twenty-second Dieron Regulars in combination with some of the Third Dieron would combine forces breach the Lyran's defenses of the city. Mobile Fire's Third Division expertise with urban warfare prove enough win them string of success against their Kurita invader's lack of experience in urban fighting. How shortly later the Mobile Fire's commanding officer, Quinten Moore would soon be killed, leaving the Regular's commander with the decision to withdraw from the planet.  He would order a retreat from the planet on September 5th, abandoning the Fourth Crucis Lancers to their own devices due to his own bitterness over arguments seniority.  Bradley would cause the Crucis Lancers to agree to parley and withdraw from Kontance in November.<ref>''Historical: Brush Wars'', pp. 31-32, 75-76 Konstance (April-August) & (August - November) - 4th Lyran Regular fight with reinforcements and failed attack on HQ would force Lyrans withdraw from the planet.</ref>
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Bradley ordered the Regulars to fall back to the Lazarus Bay. On September 3rd, the surviving elements of the 22nd Dieron Regulars combined forces with some of the 3rd Dieron to breach the Lyran defenses. The street-to-street fighting in the city was brutal, with engagements typically fought at under 100 meters and causing massive collateral damage. Mobile Fire's 3rd Division's expertise in urban warfare proved enough to win them a string of successes against the Kuritans' lack of city fighting experience. Shortly afterwards, Mobile Fire suffered its own reversal as its commanding officer, Quinten Moore, was killed. General Bradbury made the decision to withdraw from the planet, on September 5th, deeming the situation unsalvageable after the Crucis Lancers did not aid the LCAF units at Lazarus Bay.<ref>''Historical: War of 3039'', pp.75-76</ref>
  
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===The Clan Invasion years leading to the FedCom Civil War===
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===Clan Invasion===
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The Fourth Lyran Regulars would be spared being deployed to the war front during the [[Clan Invasion]]. After the [[Battle of Tukayyid]] and its [[Treaty of Tukayyid|Truce]] in [[3052]], the FedCom High Command selected the Regulars amongst other units to conduct raids into the Clan [[Occupation Zone|Occupation Zones]]. The combat in these raids were high intensity, and 30 percent of the Fourth's 'Mech assets would be lost. The unit was considered so badly damaged that the Lyran High Command ordered it be deactivated while it was being rebuilt.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87 4th Lyran Regulars - Unit's history during Clan Invasion era and its brief period of Deactivation.</ref><ref>''Objective Raids'', p. 17-23 Federated Commonwealth deployment tables - 4th Lyran Regulars not listed among active combat units in 3054.</ref> During its rebuilding and reactivation, the unit would come under the command of Colonel Chas Mohring, whom transferred from  the [[Fourth Deneb Light Cavalry]]. He would from day taking command begin to teach the unit new tactics learned during his years with the Fourth Deneb.
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The 4th Lyran Regulars were spared being deployed to the war front during the [[Clan Invasion]]. After the [[Battle of Tukayyid (3052)|Battle of Tukayyid]] and its [[Treaty of Tukayyid|Truce]] in [[3052]], the FedCom High Command selected the Regulars among other units to conduct raids into the Clan [[Occupation Zone|Occupation Zones]]. The combat in these raids were high intensity, grinding the Regulars down until they were below 30 percent strength. The Lyran High Command ordered it be deactivated while it was being rebuilt.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87 4th Lyran Regulars - Unit's history during Clan Invasion era and its brief period of Deactivation.</ref><ref>''Objective Raids'', p. 17-23 Federated Commonwealth deployment tables - 4th Lyran Regulars not listed among active combat units in 3054.</ref>
  
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The unit had been considered hot bed for criticism of the Archon by 3062, though originally suspected due to the unit's ties with former Tamar Pact and its ruling family whom now controlled [[Skye]]. However, its criticism from its ranks was aimed towards their burning hatred for the [[Clans]].
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By 3060, the unit had been rebuilt and was now under the command of Colonel [[Chas Mohring]],<ref>''Shattered Sphere'', p. 49</ref> a transfer from the [[4th Deneb Light Cavalry]]. From his first day of command, he focused on new tactics learned during his years with the Deneb Light Cavalry. The unit was viewed with some suspicion due to the unit's ties with former Tamar Pact and, by extension, [[Robert Kelswa-Steiner]]. While some officers had criticized [[Archon]] [[Katherine Steiner-Davion]], it was due to their burning hatred for the [[Clans]] rather than true opposition to her, and the regiment was still regarded as reliably loyal.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87</ref>
  
 
===The FedCom Civil War and the 11th Arcturan Battle Group===
 
===The FedCom Civil War and the 11th Arcturan Battle Group===
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Neutral at start of the [[FedCom Civil War|War]], the unit would ultimately be drawn into the fight. The Regulars would join the [[11th Arcturan Guards|11th Arcturan Guards']] Battle Group of Lyran Loyalist forces hunting down [[Victor Steiner-Davion]].  Task Forces now encumbered [[4th Alliance Guards]], [[Alarion APM|Alarion]] and [[Carlisle APM|Carisle PTMs]] arrived on [[Thorin]] in August 7th, 3065 with reports suggesting the Prince was on world. The Regulars and rest of the task force moved to planet's capital of Ecol City.  However both [[244th Division (ComStar)|244th Division]] and [[Outlands Legion]] repulsed the move to try to take the city. General Linda MacDonald's 11th Arcturan Guards' and Task Force's commander lead Regulars and it troops in a two week action against the Victor's ally troops. Regulars and the Task Force would continue to fight for control of Thorin until January 24th, [[3066]], where Victor Steiner-Davion would arrive on planet and pull his forces off planet. The moderately damaged Regulars would be left by Battle Group to garrison the planet for rest of the war. <ref>''FedCom Civil War (sourcebook)'', p. 149 - 4th Lyran Regular's only action of the war.</ref><ref>''FedCom Civil War (sourcebook)'' p. 183 Civil War and DCMS Incursion Table - 4th Lyran Regulars' movement notes that it remained on planet after Victor left. The Fourth Alliance Guards would remain with the unit as part of Thorin's garrison force.</ref><ref>''Field Manual: Updates'', p. 171 - 4th Lyran Regulars' brief update include the unit being left behind to garrison the planet.</ref>
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Neutral at start of the [[FedCom Civil War|War]], the unit would ultimately be drawn into the fight. The Regulars joined the [[11th Arcturan Guards]]' Battle Group of Loyalist forces hunting down [[Victor Steiner-Davion]] alongside the [[4th Alliance Guards]], [[Alarion APM|Alarion]] and [[Carlisle APM|Carlisle APMs]]. The 11th Arcturan Battle Group, as it had been dubbed by the high command, arrived on [[Thorin]] in August 7th, 3065 with reports suggesting the Prince was on world. The Regulars and rest of the task force moved to take the planet's capital, Ecol City, but the [[244th Division (ComStar)|244th Division]] and [[Outlands Legion]] were there to meet them. General Linda MacDonald led the Regulars alongside the rest of the task force in a two-week action against the Allied troops. The fight over Thorin continued until January 24th, [[3066]], when Victor Steiner-Davion pulled his forces off planet. The moderately damaged Regulars stayed behind to garrison the planet for rest of the war.<ref>''FedCom Civil War (sourcebook)'', p. 149 - 4th Lyran Regulars' only action of the war.</ref><ref>''FedCom Civil War (sourcebook)'' p. 183 Civil War and DCMS Incursion Table - 4th Lyran Regulars' movement notes that it remained on planet after Victor left. The Fourth Alliance Guards would remain with the unit as part of Thorin's garrison force.</ref><ref>''Field Manual: Updates'', p. 171 - 4th Lyran Regulars' brief update include the unit being left behind to garrison the planet.</ref> Colonel Mohring retained command after war's end,<ref>''Field Manual: Updates'', p. 178</ref> but it was the conduct of his armor commander, Colonel [[Devon Lestrade]], that drew the most attention. Despite his family's close ties to the Free Skye movement, Lestrade proved himself a staunch Lyran patriot and rebuffed all attempts to get him to join the insurrection, though it estranged him from much of his family.<ref>''Field Manual: Updates'', p. 171</ref>
  
 
===The Jihad===
 
===The Jihad===
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In February of 3068, Regulars were called by [[Marshal]] from their assigned on Thorin to participate in [[Operation Überschatten]], the offensive against the Free Worlds League's attack of against Skye. During the course of the offensive, the Regulars would attack [[McAffe]] in May 20, where the [[Ninth Regulan Hussars]] were garrisoning. However, the Regulars were led into an ambush which would inflict considerable damage to the unit.  The Fourth Regulars lost nearly a quarter of their troops withdrawing from the world. After action reports indicate that the [[Home Guard (Free Worlds League)|Home Guard]] and two additional regiments of [[Marik Militia]] troops were on the world. The unit's staff was accused of incompetence and its command staff would be withdrawn from McAffe and assigned elsewhere.<ref name="frla13">''Field Report: LAAF'', p. 13</ref>
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In February of 3068, the Regulars joined [[Operation BROKEN FIST|Operation ÜBERSCHATTEN]], Robert Kelswa-Steiner's attack on the Free Worlds League. The Regulars attacked [[McAffe]] on May 20th, which intelligence reports claimed was held by the [[Ninth Regulan Hussars]]. When they arrived, the Regulars found the [[Home Guard (Free Worlds League)|Home Guard]] and two additional regiments of [[Marik Militia]] waiting for them. Much of the unit's leadership was accused of ineptitude and reassigned after losing a quarter of their forces.<ref>''Jihad Secrets: The Blake Documents'', pp. 21-22</ref><ref name="frla13">''Field Report: LAAF'', p. 13</ref> Colonel Lestrade was appointed to lead the unit, making him one of the few armor officers to command a BattleMech-based force.<ref>''Field Manual: 3085, p. 107</ref>
  
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On July 2nd, Free Worlds League forces mounted a [[Operation Broken Fist|counter offensive]] against the Skye/Bolan Forces. The Regulars would be heavily damaged and rendered non-combat effective, with a third of its command captured by the League forces.<ref>''Jihad Hot Spots: 3070'', p. 16-17 Timeline of the Jihad - Actual dates for 4th Lyran Regulars' assault of McAffe on May 20th and the date for when the unit was rendered non-combat effective by League forces.</ref><ref>''Jihad Secrets: The Blake Documents'', p. 21-22 Operation: Überschatten/Broken Fist - 4th Lyran Regulars actions during the League / Bolan offensive and its near-destruction/capture.</ref> They spent the rest of the Jihad garrisoning [[Megrez]].<ref name="frla13"/> In [[3079]] they were transferred to [[Ford]].<ref name="frla13"/>
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The 4th and [[Eighth Lyran Regulars|8th Lyran Regulars]] assaulted [[Epsilon]] in the Tamarind Abbey District. The Regulars faced the [[Thirty-fourth Marik Militia|34th Marik Militia]], which put up some resistance, but eventually the LCAF force overwhelmed the battalion sized formation and forced them off world. They later fought for several months on [[Bella I]] in [[3082]] and eventually took that world as well. In [[3085]] they were still garrisoning Bella I.<ref>''Field Manual: 3085'', p. 102</ref>
  
 
===Dark Age===
 
===Dark Age===
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The Fourth and [[Eighth Lyran Regulars]] assaulted [[Epsilon]] in the Tamarind Abbey District. The Regulars faced the [[Thirty-fourth Marik Militia]] which put up some resistance but eventually the LCAF force overwhelmed the battalion sized formation and forced them off world. They later fought for several months on [[Bella I]] in [[3082]] and eventually took that world as well. In [[3085]] they were still garrisoning Bella I.<ref>''Field Manual: 3085'', p. 102</ref>
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The 4th Lyran Regulars remained active until c. [[3140]], when the unit was one of many destroyed by [[Clan Wolf]].<ref>''Field Manual: 3145'', p. 128</ref>
  
 
==Officers==
 
==Officers==
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As of 2765 the commanding officer of the Fourth was Colonel Michelle Eanes.<ref name="FR2765:LCAFp15"/>
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{| class="wikitable"
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As of [[3039]], the commanding officer was ''[[Leutnant-General]]'' Michael Bradbury.<ref>''Historical War of 3039'', pp. 31-32, 75-76, "4th Lyran Regulars' commander noted during invasion of Konstance".</ref>
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! scope="col" width="220" style="background: #dedede;" | Rank
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! scope="col" width="220" style="background: #dedede;" | Name
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As of [[3050]], the commanding officer was ''[[Leftenant General]]'' Cynthia Wellers<ref>''20 Year Update'', p. 26, "Unit commanding noted as of 3050"</ref>
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! scope="col" width="220" style="background: #dedede;" | Command
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|-
−
As of [[3062]] to [[3067]], the commanding officer was ''[[Colonel]]'' Chas Mohring.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87 - Commanding Officer of the 4th Lyran Regulars as of 3062</ref><ref>''Field Manual: Updates'', p. 177, "Unit Commander still Chas Mohring".</ref>
+
| colspan="4" style="background: #efefef;" | '''Commanding Officers of the 4th Lyran Regulars'''
−
 
+
|-
−
As of [[3085]] the commanding officer is ''Colonel'' Devon Lestrade.<ref name=FM3085p107>''Field Manual: 3085'', p. 107, "Lyran Commonwealth Deployment Table - 3085"</ref>
+
|[[Colonel]]
 +
|[[Michelle Eanes]]
 +
|[[2765]]<ref name="FR2765:LCAFp15"/>
 +
|-
 +
|[[Leutnant-General]]
 +
|[[Michael Bradbury]]
 +
|[[3039]]<ref>''Historical War of 3039'', pp. 31-32, 75-76, "4th Lyran Regulars' commander noted during invasion of Konstance".</ref>
 +
|-
 +
|[[Leftenant General]]
 +
|[[Cynthia Wellers]]
 +
|[[3050]]<ref>''20 Year Update'', p. 26, "Unit commanding noted as of 3050"</ref>
 +
|-
 +
|Colonel
 +
|[[Chas Mohring]]
 +
|[[3062]] - [[3067]]<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87 - Commanding Officer of the 4th Lyran Regulars as of 3062</ref><ref>''Field Manual: Updates'', p. 177, "Unit Commander still Chas Mohring".</ref>
 +
|-
 +
|Colonel
 +
|[[Devon Lestrade]]
 +
|[[3085]]<ref name=FM3085p107>''Field Manual: 3085'', p. 107, "Lyran Commonwealth Deployment Table - 3085"</ref>
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
==Tactics==
 
==Tactics==
−
During the War of 3039, the Regulars would utilize its speed and try to out maneuver enemy force and try to hit them in their flanks or hit them with lightning fast strikes.<ref>''Historical: Brush Wars'', pp. 31-32, 75-76, "During Invasion of Konstance, unit's tactics are described in its actions".</ref>
+
During the War of 3039, the Regulars utilized their speed and to outmaneuver enemies, using flanking attacks and lightning-fast strikes.<ref>''Historical: War of 3039'', pp. 31-32, 75-76, "During Invasion of Konstance, unit's tactics are described in its actions".</ref>
  
−
By 3062, it tactics would chance after its reactivation and getting new commanding officer. The unit would utilize its attached Force's Hovercraft type Combat Vehicles forces to screen and scouts. It would augment its BattleMechs and heavier Combat Vehicles have them form Combined Arms subcommands to maneuver independently exploiting local terrain to their own advantage.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87, "Tactics" - Unit's tactics as of 3063.</ref>  
+
By 3062, the unit's tactics changed after its reactivation and receiving a new commanding officer. The unit would utilize its attached Force's Hovercraft type Combat Vehicles forces to screen and scouts. It would augment its BattleMechs and heavier Combat Vehicles to have them form combined-arms subcommands to maneuver independently, exploiting local terrain to their own advantage.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87, "Tactics" - Unit's tactics as of 3063.</ref>
  
 
==Unit Insignia==
 
==Unit Insignia==
−
Unit's insignia is a outline of a palm tree with lightning striking above it.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87, "Insignia as described".</ref>
+
The Unit's insignia is the outline of a palm tree with lightning striking above it.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87, "Insignia as described".</ref>
  
 
==Composition History==
 
==Composition History==
 
=== 2765 ===
 
=== 2765 ===
−
''' Fourth Lyran Regulars''' (Regular/Questionable)<ref name="FR2765:LCAFp15"/>
+
''' 4th Lyran Regulars''' (Regiment/Regular/Questionable)<ref name="FR2765:LCAFp15"/>
 +
=== 2786 - 2821===
 +
'''4th Lyran Regulars ''' (Regiment/Regular/Questionable)<ref name= FSSp139>''First Succession War'', p. 139</ref>
 +
: Note: At this point in time the heavy-weight unit was stationed on [[Elume]]. In 2821 the command was reduced to 24 percent of its strength and was deployed on [[Elume]].<ref name= FSSp139/>
 +
=== 2830 ===
 +
'''4th Lyran Regulars''' (Regiment/Regular/Questionable)<ref name=2ndSSp99>''Second Succession War'', p. 99</ref>
 +
: Note: At this point in time the assault-weight unit was stationed on [[Elume]] with an operational readiness of 69 percent.<ref name=2ndSSp99/>
 +
=== 2864 ===
 +
'''4th Lyran Regulars''' (Regiment/Regular./Questionable)<ref name=2ndSSp99/>
 +
: Note: At this point in time the assault-weight unit was stationed on [[Moore]] with an operational readiness of 39 percent.<ref name=2ndSSp99/>
  
 
===3025===
 
===3025===
−
'''Fourth Lyran Regulars''' (Regular/Reliable)<ref>''House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)'', p. 118, "Deployment Table"</ref>
+
'''4th Lyran Regulars''' (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref>''House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)'', p. 118, "Deployment Table"</ref>
 +
:Note: At this point in time the unit was stationed on [[Menkent]].
  
 
===3040===
 
===3040===
−
'''Fourth Lyran Regulars''' (Regular/Reliable)<ref name=HWO3039>''Historical: War of 3039'', p. 137 </ref>
+
'''4th Lyran Regulars''' (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name = HWo3039p137/>
 +
:Note: At this point in time the command was stationed on [[Menkent]].<ref name = HWo3039p137>''Historical: War of 3039'', p. 137</ref>
  
 
===3050===
 
===3050===
−
'''Fourth Lyran Regulars''' (BattleMech Regiment)
+
'''4lh Lyran Regulars ''' (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name = 20yup26/>
−
* CO: ''Leftenant General'' Cynthia Weller
+
:* CO: Leftenant General Cynthia Wellers<ref name = 20yup26/>
−
Note: Unit Listed with Regular Skills, reliable loyalty and stationed on Menkent as of 3050.<ref>''20 Year Update'', p. 26, "Deployment Tables for the Federated Commonwealth as of 3050".</ref>
+
:Note: At this point in time the command was stationed on [[Menkent]].<ref name = 20yup26>''20 Year Update'', p. 26</ref>
  
 
===3062-3067===
 
===3062-3067===
−
'''Fourth Lyran Regulars''' (BattleMech Regiment)
+
'''4th Lyran Regulars''' (BattleMech Regiment)<br>
−
* CO: ''Colonel'' Chas Mohring
+
CO: Colonel Chas Mohring<br>
−
Regulars Note: In 3062, the Regulars would be considered Regular skilled and listed with a Reliable loyalty rating while still stationed on Blue Diamond.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 125, "Unit information as of 3062".</ref> As of 3067, the unit strength would be 80%, while its noted being having regular skills and reliable loyalty rating.<ref>''Field Manual: Updates'', p. 177, "Deployment Table as of 3067".</ref>
+
Regulars Note: In 3062, the Regulars were considered Regular skilled and listed with a Reliable loyalty rating while still stationed on Blue Diamond.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 125, "Unit information as of 3062".</ref> As of 3067, the unit strength would be 80%, while it was noted as having regular skills and reliable loyalty rating.<ref>''Field Manual: Updates'', p. 177, "Deployment Table as of 3067".</ref><br>
 +
 
 +
'''23rd Menkent Cavalry''' ([[Combat Vehicle|Armor]] [[Regiment]])<br>
 +
CO: Leutnant Colonel Devon Lestrade
 +
Cavalry Notes: In 3062, the unit had been rated as Regulars, and Reliable along with rest of the regiment. In 3067 the Cavalry's strength would be up to 95%, with loyalty ratings of Regular and it was considered to be Reliable.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 125, "Lyran Alliance Forces/Lyran Regulars" - Unit's status as of 3062, prior to the Civil War.</ref><br>
  
−
'''Twenty-third Menkent Cavalry''' ([[Combat Vehicle|Armor]] [[Regiment]])
+
Unit Note: In 3062, the Regulars (as whole) would be noted for taking a neutral status in growing during the reign of Katrina Steiner-Davion leading to the Civil War. It had access to D rated Equipment this time period.
−
* CO: ''[[Lieutenant-Colonel]]'' Devon Lestrate
 
−
Cavalry Notes: In 3062, the unit had been rated as Regulars, and Reliable along with rest of the regiment. In 3067 the Cavalry's strength would be up to 95%, with loyalty ratings of Regular and it was considered to be Reliable.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 125, "Lyran Alliance Forces/Lyran Regulars" - Unit's status as of 3062, prior to the Civil War.</ref>
 
  
−
Unit Note: In 3062, the Regulars (as whole) would be noted for taking a neutral status in growing during the reign of the Katrina Steiner-Davion leading to the Civil War. It had access to D rated Equipment this time period.
+
===3079===
 +
'''Fourth Lyran Regulars ''' (Regiment/Veteran/Questionable) <ref name =“frlcaf13“>'' Field Report: FWLM'' , p. 13</ref>
 +
: Note: At this point in time the unit was stationed on [[Ford]].<ref name =“frlcaf13“/>
  
 
===3085===
 
===3085===
−
'''Fourth Lyran Regulars''' (Veteran/Questionable)<ref name=FM3085p107/>  
+
'''4th Lyran Regulars''' (Regiment/Veteran/Questionable)<ref name=FM3085p107/><br>
−
* CO: ''Colonel'' Devon Lestrade
+
CO: Colonel Devon Lestrade<br>
  
 
==Notable Members of the Unit==
 
==Notable Members of the Unit==
−
*Devon Lestrate - The Armor/Tank Commander of the Fourth's attached combat vehicle regiment, he is a nephew of the traitorous late Duke of Summer, [[Aldo Lestrade]]. Unlike his late uncle, he would from all appearances does not posses desire for intrigue. He is however politically astute and is among the number of officers who has burning to destroy [[Clan Jade Falcon]].<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87, "Officers" - Relative of one of Fourth Succession Wars antagonist among unit's membership.</ref> After the FedCom Civil War, he would be viewed as patriotic individual refusing to be involved with Free Skye movement. However this would estranged from his family due their ties with rebel organization.<ref>''Field Manual: Updates'', p. 171, "4th Lyran Regulars note regarding Devon Lestrate".</ref>
+
*Devon Lestrade - The Armor/Tank Commander of the 4th's attached combat vehicle regiment, he is a nephew of the traitorous late Duke of Summer, [[Aldo Lestrade (31st c.)|Aldo Lestrade]]. Unlike his late uncle, and from all appearances, he does not possess a desire for intrigue. He is, however, politically astute and is among the number of officers who has a burning wish to destroy [[Clan Jade Falcon]].<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 87: "Officers" - Relative of one of Fourth Succession Wars antagonist among unit's membership.</ref> After the FedCom Civil War, he was viewed as a patriotic individual refusing to be involved with the Free Skye movement. This estranged him from his family due to their ties with that rebel organization.<ref>''Field Manual: Updates'', p. 171: "4th Lyran Regulars note regarding Devon Lestrade".</ref>
−
 
 
−
==Rules==
 
−
<div class="gamerules">
 
−
===Game Rules===
 
−
From Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, the Fourth Lyran Regulars' special abilities & benefits some stem from its Commanding officer Colonel Chas Mohring. The Regiment has been given the [[Banking Initiative]] ability.
 
  
−
Colonel Mohring's presence (Using Classic Battletech RPG / MechWarrior 3 RPG rules) would be given any player character assigned to the unit +5 XP per month (in game time) for strictly Tactics and Strategy skills.  While in a scenario, a player in command while using RPG character, can roll tactics skill check.  If should the player win their roll, they would get the following benefits (Unless scenario's conditions allow and maps are randomly generated for it);  The player may choose any four maps sheets when setting up the  battle/scenario. They may choose their home edge and hide half of their force. Should the player fail their tactics check, the opposing player gain all advantages the controlling player would received.<ref>''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 133, "Rules Annex" - 4th Lyran Regulars' special scenario rules and RPG benefits/abilities.</ref>
+
==Notes==
−
</div>
+
* Special rules for the 4th Lyran Regulars can be found on ''Field Manual: Lyran Alliance'', p. 133.
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
Line 116: Line 150:
  
 
==Bibliography==
 
==Bibliography==
 +
{{div col|colwidth=25em}}
 
* ''[[20 Year Update]]''
 
* ''[[20 Year Update]]''
−
* ''[[FedCom Civil War (sourcebook)]]''
+
* ''[[FedCom Civil War (sourcebook)|FedCom Civil War]]''
 
* ''[[Field Manual: 3085]]''
 
* ''[[Field Manual: 3085]]''
 +
* ''[[Field Manual: 3145]]''
 
* ''[[Field Manual: Lyran Alliance]]''
 
* ''[[Field Manual: Lyran Alliance]]''
 
* ''[[Field Manual: Updates]]''
 
* ''[[Field Manual: Updates]]''
 
* ''[[Field Report 2765: LCAF]]''
 
* ''[[Field Report 2765: LCAF]]''
 +
* ''[[First Succession War (sourcebook)|First Succession War]]''
 
* ''[[Historical: War of 3039]] ''
 
* ''[[Historical: War of 3039]] ''
 
* ''[[House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)]]''
 
* ''[[House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)]]''
Line 127: Line 164:
 
* ''[[NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1]]''
 
* ''[[NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1]]''
 
* ''[[Objective Raids]]''
 
* ''[[Objective Raids]]''
 +
* ''[[Second Succession War (sourcebook)|Second Succession War]]''
 +
{{div col end}}
  
 
[[Category:Lyran Commands|Lyran Regulars, 004th]]
 
[[Category:Lyran Commands|Lyran Regulars, 004th]]
 
[[Category:Federated Commonwealth Commands|Lyran Regulars, 004th]]
 
[[Category:Federated Commonwealth Commands|Lyran Regulars, 004th]]

Latest revision as of 22:17, 23 April 2024

Lyranregulars04th.png
Fourth Lyran Regulars
Disbanded ca. 3140
Nickname Tropic Lightning[1]
Affiliation Lyran Commonwealth
Parent Command Lyran Regulars

The Fourth Lyran Regulars was originally a frontline BattleMech Regiment in the service of Lyran Commonwealth.[2] The unit was noted historically for holding grudges and for hating the Draconis Combine and then later the Clans.[3]

History[edit]

Star League Era[edit]

The regiments of the Lyran Regulars were prone to being disbanded and reactivated as needed; each time a regiment was reactivated, it would be populated with a mix of reenlisted veterans and fresh recruits, before being assigned to a garrison posting to free up a line regiment for active service. After these line regiments returned home, the Regulars drew down to a brigade, awaiting the next time they would be called on. The Fourth were an active regiment in 2765, stationed on Elume, and were responsible for causing a stir within the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces. The focus of this attention was Colonel Michelle Eanes, the commanding officer; Colonel Eanes had married one of her subordinate officers, Hauptmann Liza Stansfield. The LCAF responded by attempting to post Stansfield to another command, but Stansfield was suing to have the posting overturned, citing that military regulations allowed for fraternization between officers, only forbidding relationships where one officer was reporting directly to another. The LCAF High Command responded by making life as difficult as possible for the 4th to put as much pressure on the two officers as possible, while their case worked its way through the Commonwealth's military courts.[4]

First Succession War[edit]

The unit was still on Elume at the dawn of the First Succession War. By the end of the fighting, they still held their post on the world, but the heavy-weight regiment had been reduced to under a quarter of its original strength.[5]

Second Succession War[edit]

During the scramble to rebuild after the First Succession War, the 4th received replacement 'Mechs and pilots, though it was not enough to bring the regiment fully up to strength. At the start of the Second Succession War, the unit was a little over two battalions in strength and still posted to Elume. The replacements were even heavier than the unit's original composition, tipping the 4th Regulars into the assault regiment category. Over the course of the war, they lost roughly half of this number, ending the war on Moore at 39 percent strength.[6]

Fourth Succession War[edit]

The 4th Lyran Regulars took an active part in the Fourth Succession War. During Operation GÖTTERDÄMMERUNG, the major Lyran Commonwealth offensive of the Fourth Succession War, the unit deployed alongside the 3rd Donegal Guards for the invasion of Orestes.[7] Then, in the exploitation phase that began on the 21st of October 3028 to capitalize on the successes of the initial wave of attacks,[8] the 4th Lyran Regulars and the 3rd Donegal Guards joined the 22nd Skye Rangers in the invasion of Grumium.[7] The conquest of Grumium was considered a significant emotional victory, as Grumium had been a Lyran world prior to being conquered by the Combine.[8] The 4th then joined in the final wave of attacks launched under Operation GÖTTERDÄMMERUNG, capturing Camlann.[7]

Post–Fourth Succession War and Ronin War[edit]

After the Fourth Succession War, the unit saw the worlds they had helped conquer for their home province of the Tamar Pact given away to the newly formed Free Rasalhague Republic in 3033. A year later these hard-won worlds came under attack by rogue Draconis Combine regiments attempting to retake the Republic for House Kurita.[9] By this time, the unit has been transferred to Blue Diamond as its new garrison world. Without a break in fighting, the unit took advantage of the situation and conducted a series of raids against the Draconis Combine as a means to vent their frustration forcing the House Steiner to give up worlds for formation of the Republic.[10]

The War of 3039[edit]

The Regulars were assigned as part of the attack forces used in the FedCom's invasion of the Draconis Combine in the War of 3039.

In the first wave of the conflict, the Regulars were part of the assault force assigned to attack Konstance. They arrived on 28 April, 3039 with the Fourth Crucis Lancers and the mercenary regiment Mobile Fire to take the system. The attack commenced roughly two weeks after other opening attacks, such as those on Kessel and Vega, but JumpShip problems and a lack of coordination delayed the operation. Opposing the FedCom forces on the CO2-blanketed world was the 22nd Dieron Regulars. The FedCom expedition planned to conduct a two-pronged invasion of the planet, taking the capital of Ishtalla and important sites on the continent of Epigaus. The Regulars were assigned to Task Force Hope, with the Regulars' CO Leutnant-General Michael Bradbury as its commander. He chose to land forty kilometers outside the city of Lazarus Bay on Epigaus.

The Regulars moved into the city, where they found a battalion of the 22nd Dieron Regulars with additional Armor forces dug-in and waiting for them. The Dieron 'Mechs struck first, conducting a series of quick flanking attacks, but the 4th Lyran Regulars met speed with speed. Lightning raids from both units meant the battlefield was an ever-changing situation. The accelerated pace of battle chewed through the task force's spare parts, but the 4th and its mercenary allies gained control of the city and its port facilities. After securing the city, the Regulars' allies in Ishtalla met only token resistance in comparison to the Regulars' fight for Lazarus Bay, leaving the remaining Dieron Regulars on the loose. The Combine troops wasted little time, beginning a series of attacks after the AFFC occupied the world's cities that often included arming civilian submarine transports for hit-and-run attacks. Tensions between Leutnant-General Bradbury and his Crucis Lancers counterpart, Major General Charles Duncan, developed as the battle turned into a police action. Bradbury believed he should have authority as the most senior Lyran officer in a Lyran theater, while Duncan pointed to his longer service record and status as an RCT commander. The high command kept the two officers under control until July 12, when ISF agents attacked General Nondi Steiner on Vega, decapitating the theater leadership and eliminating their moderating influence on the officers' feud.[11]

By August, both Bradbury and Duncan were petitioning their respective high commands for reinforcements and naval assets to help hunt down the 22nd Dieron. But as none was sent, the world fell into a stalemate, with the FedCom forces holding the cities and unable to pin down the DCMS survivors. On the 19th, Draconis Combine reinforcements in the form of the Third Dieron Regulars jumped into the system at a pirate point. The unit's leader, Tai-sho James Kurenal, directed the 3rd Dieron to a landing zone south of Lazarus Bay, where they began an artillery barrage of the fortified positions the FedCom troops held. The 4th Lyran Regulars now faced a heavier force, who were giving them the choice to come out and fight or allow themselves to be bombarded. The 4th Lyran moved swiftly, surprising the incoming 3rd Dieron, who were prepared to conduct a city assault. Two battalions of Lyran Regulars drove straight to the HQ of the 3rd Dieron; however earthworks erected to protect the Kurita infantry caused the fast-moving 'Mechs of the 4th Lyrans to slow down enough for the 3rd Dieron's command Company to take advantage of their maneuver. The Combine force led by Tai-sho Kurenal charged into the flank of the 4th Lyrans' attack force with such velocity and venom that advanced units told Bradbury they were engaged by at least a heavy battalion. Bradbury called for the unit to pull back, which then became a rout. The damage inflicted by the Kurita counterattack left long-lasting psychological damage to the Lyran Regulars for decades to come, with the unit refusing to acknowledge they had been turned back by a mere company.

Bradley ordered the Regulars to fall back to the Lazarus Bay. On September 3rd, the surviving elements of the 22nd Dieron Regulars combined forces with some of the 3rd Dieron to breach the Lyran defenses. The street-to-street fighting in the city was brutal, with engagements typically fought at under 100 meters and causing massive collateral damage. Mobile Fire's 3rd Division's expertise in urban warfare proved enough to win them a string of successes against the Kuritans' lack of city fighting experience. Shortly afterwards, Mobile Fire suffered its own reversal as its commanding officer, Quinten Moore, was killed. General Bradbury made the decision to withdraw from the planet, on September 5th, deeming the situation unsalvageable after the Crucis Lancers did not aid the LCAF units at Lazarus Bay.[12]

Clan Invasion[edit]

The 4th Lyran Regulars were spared being deployed to the war front during the Clan Invasion. After the Battle of Tukayyid and its Truce in 3052, the FedCom High Command selected the Regulars among other units to conduct raids into the Clan Occupation Zones. The combat in these raids were high intensity, grinding the Regulars down until they were below 30 percent strength. The Lyran High Command ordered it be deactivated while it was being rebuilt.[13][14]

By 3060, the unit had been rebuilt and was now under the command of Colonel Chas Mohring,[15] a transfer from the 4th Deneb Light Cavalry. From his first day of command, he focused on new tactics learned during his years with the Deneb Light Cavalry. The unit was viewed with some suspicion due to the unit's ties with former Tamar Pact and, by extension, Robert Kelswa-Steiner. While some officers had criticized Archon Katherine Steiner-Davion, it was due to their burning hatred for the Clans rather than true opposition to her, and the regiment was still regarded as reliably loyal.[16]

The FedCom Civil War and the 11th Arcturan Battle Group[edit]

Neutral at start of the War, the unit would ultimately be drawn into the fight. The Regulars joined the 11th Arcturan Guards' Battle Group of Loyalist forces hunting down Victor Steiner-Davion alongside the 4th Alliance Guards, Alarion and Carlisle APMs. The 11th Arcturan Battle Group, as it had been dubbed by the high command, arrived on Thorin in August 7th, 3065 with reports suggesting the Prince was on world. The Regulars and rest of the task force moved to take the planet's capital, Ecol City, but the 244th Division and Outlands Legion were there to meet them. General Linda MacDonald led the Regulars alongside the rest of the task force in a two-week action against the Allied troops. The fight over Thorin continued until January 24th, 3066, when Victor Steiner-Davion pulled his forces off planet. The moderately damaged Regulars stayed behind to garrison the planet for rest of the war.[17][18][19] Colonel Mohring retained command after war's end,[20] but it was the conduct of his armor commander, Colonel Devon Lestrade, that drew the most attention. Despite his family's close ties to the Free Skye movement, Lestrade proved himself a staunch Lyran patriot and rebuffed all attempts to get him to join the insurrection, though it estranged him from much of his family.[21]

The Jihad[edit]

In February of 3068, the Regulars joined Operation ÜBERSCHATTEN, Robert Kelswa-Steiner's attack on the Free Worlds League. The Regulars attacked McAffe on May 20th, which intelligence reports claimed was held by the Ninth Regulan Hussars. When they arrived, the Regulars found the Home Guard and two additional regiments of Marik Militia waiting for them. Much of the unit's leadership was accused of ineptitude and reassigned after losing a quarter of their forces.[22][23] Colonel Lestrade was appointed to lead the unit, making him one of the few armor officers to command a BattleMech-based force.[24]

The 4th and 8th Lyran Regulars assaulted Epsilon in the Tamarind Abbey District. The Regulars faced the 34th Marik Militia, which put up some resistance, but eventually the LCAF force overwhelmed the battalion sized formation and forced them off world. They later fought for several months on Bella I in 3082 and eventually took that world as well. In 3085 they were still garrisoning Bella I.[25]

Dark Age[edit]

The 4th Lyran Regulars remained active until c. 3140, when the unit was one of many destroyed by Clan Wolf.[26]

Officers[edit]

Rank Name Command
Commanding Officers of the 4th Lyran Regulars
Colonel Michelle Eanes 2765[4]
Leutnant-General Michael Bradbury 3039[27]
Leftenant General Cynthia Wellers 3050[28]
Colonel Chas Mohring 3062 - 3067[29][30]
Colonel Devon Lestrade 3085[31]

Tactics[edit]

During the War of 3039, the Regulars utilized their speed and to outmaneuver enemies, using flanking attacks and lightning-fast strikes.[32]

By 3062, the unit's tactics changed after its reactivation and receiving a new commanding officer. The unit would utilize its attached Force's Hovercraft type Combat Vehicles forces to screen and scouts. It would augment its BattleMechs and heavier Combat Vehicles to have them form combined-arms subcommands to maneuver independently, exploiting local terrain to their own advantage.[33]

Unit Insignia[edit]

The Unit's insignia is the outline of a palm tree with lightning striking above it.[34]

Composition History[edit]

2765[edit]

4th Lyran Regulars (Regiment/Regular/Questionable)[4]

2786 - 2821[edit]

4th Lyran Regulars (Regiment/Regular/Questionable)[35]

Note: At this point in time the heavy-weight unit was stationed on Elume. In 2821 the command was reduced to 24 percent of its strength and was deployed on Elume.[35]

2830[edit]

4th Lyran Regulars (Regiment/Regular/Questionable)[36]

Note: At this point in time the assault-weight unit was stationed on Elume with an operational readiness of 69 percent.[36]

2864[edit]

4th Lyran Regulars (Regiment/Regular./Questionable)[36]

Note: At this point in time the assault-weight unit was stationed on Moore with an operational readiness of 39 percent.[36]

3025[edit]

4th Lyran Regulars (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[37]

Note: At this point in time the unit was stationed on Menkent.

3040[edit]

4th Lyran Regulars (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[38]

Note: At this point in time the command was stationed on Menkent.[38]

3050[edit]

4lh Lyran Regulars (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[39]

  • CO: Leftenant General Cynthia Wellers[39]
Note: At this point in time the command was stationed on Menkent.[39]

3062-3067[edit]

4th Lyran Regulars (BattleMech Regiment)
CO: Colonel Chas Mohring
Regulars Note: In 3062, the Regulars were considered Regular skilled and listed with a Reliable loyalty rating while still stationed on Blue Diamond.[40] As of 3067, the unit strength would be 80%, while it was noted as having regular skills and reliable loyalty rating.[41]

23rd Menkent Cavalry (Armor Regiment)
CO: Leutnant Colonel Devon Lestrade Cavalry Notes: In 3062, the unit had been rated as Regulars, and Reliable along with rest of the regiment. In 3067 the Cavalry's strength would be up to 95%, with loyalty ratings of Regular and it was considered to be Reliable.[42]

Unit Note: In 3062, the Regulars (as whole) would be noted for taking a neutral status in growing during the reign of Katrina Steiner-Davion leading to the Civil War. It had access to D rated Equipment this time period.

3079[edit]

Fourth Lyran Regulars (Regiment/Veteran/Questionable) [43]

Note: At this point in time the unit was stationed on Ford.[43]

3085[edit]

4th Lyran Regulars (Regiment/Veteran/Questionable)[31]
CO: Colonel Devon Lestrade

Notable Members of the Unit[edit]

  • Devon Lestrade - The Armor/Tank Commander of the 4th's attached combat vehicle regiment, he is a nephew of the traitorous late Duke of Summer, Aldo Lestrade. Unlike his late uncle, and from all appearances, he does not possess a desire for intrigue. He is, however, politically astute and is among the number of officers who has a burning wish to destroy Clan Jade Falcon.[44] After the FedCom Civil War, he was viewed as a patriotic individual refusing to be involved with the Free Skye movement. This estranged him from his family due to their ties with that rebel organization.[45]

Notes[edit]

  • Special rules for the 4th Lyran Regulars can be found on Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, p. 133.

References[edit]

  1. ↑ House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth), p. 77: "Regimental Nicknames (continued)"
  2. ↑ House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth), p. 118: "Unit listings are strictly BattleMech regiments".
  3. ↑ Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, p. 87: "Unit's passions for grudges towards particular enemies popping up over the decades".
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Field Report 2765: LCAF, p. 15, "Lyran Regulars"
  5. ↑ First Succession War (sourcebook), p. 139
  6. ↑ Second Succession War (sourcebook), p. 99
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1, p. 44-45, "Operation GÖTTERDÄMMERUNG"
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1, p. 59, "Follow-up Invasions"
  9. ↑ Handbook: Brush Wars, p. 92, "The Ronin War year noted, and its relevance to the Regulars".
  10. ↑ Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, p. 87, "Fourth Lyran Regulars' history, reveals the unit's Tamar background and its actions during the Ronin War".
  11. ↑ Historical: War of 3039, pp. 31-32
  12. ↑ Historical: War of 3039, pp.75-76
  13. ↑ Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, p. 87 4th Lyran Regulars - Unit's history during Clan Invasion era and its brief period of Deactivation.
  14. ↑ Objective Raids, p. 17-23 Federated Commonwealth deployment tables - 4th Lyran Regulars not listed among active combat units in 3054.
  15. ↑ Shattered Sphere, p. 49
  16. ↑ Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, p. 87
  17. ↑ FedCom Civil War (sourcebook), p. 149 - 4th Lyran Regulars' only action of the war.
  18. ↑ FedCom Civil War (sourcebook) p. 183 Civil War and DCMS Incursion Table - 4th Lyran Regulars' movement notes that it remained on planet after Victor left. The Fourth Alliance Guards would remain with the unit as part of Thorin's garrison force.
  19. ↑ Field Manual: Updates, p. 171 - 4th Lyran Regulars' brief update include the unit being left behind to garrison the planet.
  20. ↑ Field Manual: Updates, p. 178
  21. ↑ Field Manual: Updates, p. 171
  22. ↑ Jihad Secrets: The Blake Documents, pp. 21-22
  23. ↑ Field Report: LAAF, p. 13
  24. ↑ Field Manual: 3085, p. 107
  25. ↑ Field Manual: 3085, p. 102
  26. ↑ Field Manual: 3145, p. 128
  27. ↑ Historical War of 3039, pp. 31-32, 75-76, "4th Lyran Regulars' commander noted during invasion of Konstance".
  28. ↑ 20 Year Update, p. 26, "Unit commanding noted as of 3050"
  29. ↑ Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, p. 87 - Commanding Officer of the 4th Lyran Regulars as of 3062
  30. ↑ Field Manual: Updates, p. 177, "Unit Commander still Chas Mohring".
  31. ↑ 31.0 31.1 Field Manual: 3085, p. 107, "Lyran Commonwealth Deployment Table - 3085"
  32. ↑ Historical: War of 3039, pp. 31-32, 75-76, "During Invasion of Konstance, unit's tactics are described in its actions".
  33. ↑ Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, p. 87, "Tactics" - Unit's tactics as of 3063.
  34. ↑ Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, p. 87, "Insignia as described".
  35. ↑ 35.0 35.1 First Succession War, p. 139
  36. ↑ 36.0 36.1 36.2 36.3 Second Succession War, p. 99
  37. ↑ House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth), p. 118, "Deployment Table"
  38. ↑ 38.0 38.1 Historical: War of 3039, p. 137
  39. ↑ 39.0 39.1 39.2 20 Year Update, p. 26
  40. ↑ Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, p. 125, "Unit information as of 3062".
  41. ↑ Field Manual: Updates, p. 177, "Deployment Table as of 3067".
  42. ↑ Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, p. 125, "Lyran Alliance Forces/Lyran Regulars" - Unit's status as of 3062, prior to the Civil War.
  43. ↑ 43.0 43.1 Field Report: FWLM , p. 13
  44. ↑ Field Manual: Lyran Alliance, p. 87: "Officers" - Relative of one of Fourth Succession Wars antagonist among unit's membership.
  45. ↑ Field Manual: Updates, p. 171: "4th Lyran Regulars note regarding Devon Lestrade".

Bibliography[edit]

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