Difference between revisions of "Screaming Eagles"
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| − | {{ | + | {{infoBoxMilitaryCommand |
| − | + | | image = [[File:Screaming Eagle insigna.jpg|150px|Screaming Eagles]] | |
| − | | image | + | | Designation = Screaming Eagles |
| − | | | + | | formed = |
| − | | | + | | Disbanded = |
| − | | | + | | Previous Designation = 250th BattleMech Division |
| − | | | + | | Nickname = |
| − | | | + | | Affiliation = Mercenary<br>[[SLDF]] |
| − | | | + | | Parent Command = Independent |
| − | | | + | | Sub-Command = |
| − | | | ||
}} | }} | ||
| − | + | The '''Screaming Eagles''' are a mercenary unit noted for an illustrious battle record stretching back to their days as the [[Star League Defense Force]]'s Regular Army as the '''250th BattleMech Division'''. | |
| − | The '''Screaming Eagles''' are a | ||
==History== | ==History== | ||
===Star League=== | ===Star League=== | ||
| − | The Division then nicknamed | + | The Division (then nicknamed '''The Stalingrad Division''') was assigned in [[2764]], as a part of the [[LVIII Corps (Star League)|LVIII Corps]], [[7th Army (Star League)|Seventh Army]], to District 3 of the [[Capellan Confederation Military Region]]. |
The unit was part of the force that was deployed to the [[Periphery]] in [[2765]], to participate in the offensive to put down second Periphery rebellion. The 250th fought in the Periphery campaign successfully and joined General Kerensky in his campaign to liberation of the [[Terran Hegemony]]. | The unit was part of the force that was deployed to the [[Periphery]] in [[2765]], to participate in the offensive to put down second Periphery rebellion. The 250th fought in the Periphery campaign successfully and joined General Kerensky in his campaign to liberation of the [[Terran Hegemony]]. | ||
| − | Unlike many of its fellow Seventh Army units, the Division survived the [[Star League Civil War]]. However, the | + | Unlike many of its fellow Seventh Army units, the Division survived the [[Star League Civil War]]. However, the unit's loyalties to Kerensky fractured when he called for the SLDF to take part in [[Operation EXODUS]]. Only parts of the Division would travel with Kerensky on his Exodus in [[2784]].<ref>''The Star League'', p. 154: "Seventh Army" - Unit Listing between years of 2764 to 2784</ref> |
| − | The '''555th Honor Guard Brigade''' and '''556th Honor Guard Brigade''' would remain in the Inner Sphere and entered the service of [[Federated Suns]] as the mercenary unit, the [[Screaming Eagles]].<ref>''Mercenaries Supplemental Update'', p. 105 | + | The '''555th Honor Guard Brigade''' and '''556th Honor Guard Brigade''' would remain in the Inner Sphere and entered the service of [[Federated Suns]] as the mercenary unit, the [[Screaming Eagles]].<ref>''Mercenaries Supplemental Update'', p. 105: "Two SLDF 250th Division's 555th and 556th Honor Guard Brigade form the Screaming Eagles"</ref> A battalion of the 250th also joined the [[AFFS]] directly, joining with battalions recruited from the [[199th Dragoon Regiment]] and [[396th Dragoon Regiment]] to form the [[Third Ceti Hussars]].<ref name="FSWp33">''First Succession War'', p. 33: "Those Left Behind"</ref> |
===Early Succession Wars=== | ===Early Succession Wars=== | ||
| − | The Screaming Eagles did not fare well during the [[First Succession War]] and had been reduced to only two Regiments by the end of the [[Second Succession War]]. | + | The Screaming Eagles did not fare well during the [[First Succession War]] and had been reduced to only two Regiments by the end of the [[Second Succession War]].<ref name="CMMp62">''Combat Manual: Mercenaries'', p. 62</ref> |
| + | |||
| + | === Second Succession War === | ||
| + | Having been stationed on the Federated Suns border with the [[Outworlds Alliance]], the [[Thirty-ninth Avalon Hussars]] were in the process of being relocated to the [[Capellan March]] in preparation for [[Operation DAO]] when the [[Capellan Confederation Armed Forces]] launched [[Operation CELT]], another attempt to capture [[Chesterton]]. The Thirty-ninth were retasked, joining the Bald Eagles regiment of the Screaming Eagles in the relief of besieged [[Fourth Syrtis Fusiliers]] on [[Demeter]]. The arrival of the Thirty-ninth and the Bald Eagles in the Demeter system on the 30th of June [[2828]] and the news of the death of [[Chancellor]] [[Ilsa Liao]] on [[Orbisonia]] convinced the senior [[CCAF]] officer, [[Colonel]] [[Jiang Bao]], to withdraw his forces. Having inflicted heavy damage on the Fusiliers, the [[Twenty-fifth Sian Dragoons]] and [[First Redfield Regulars]] withdrew, and [[First Prince]] [[Paul Davion (29th c.)|Paul Davion]] would subsequently award Colonel [[Damien Hasek]], the Commanding Officer of the Fusiliers, the dukedom of [[New Syrtis]] for his actions in defense of Demeter.<ref name="SSWp24">''Second Succession War'', p. 24: "The Suns-Confederation Front"</ref> | ||
===The Fourth Succession War=== | ===The Fourth Succession War=== | ||
| − | While still in service of [[House Davion]], the unit participated in First Prince [[Hanse Davion|Hanse Davion's]] Operation Rat. The unit was garrisoned on [[Skepptana]] prior to beginning of the war.<ref>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'' p. 13 | + | While still in service of [[House Davion]], the unit participated in First Prince [[Hanse Davion|Hanse Davion's]] Operation Rat. The unit was garrisoned on [[Skepptana]] prior to beginning of the war.<ref>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'', p. 13: Unit deployment prior to Operation Rat</ref> |
| − | + | ||
| + | ====Sarna==== | ||
| + | |||
| + | The Screaming Eagles were part of a major Taskforce consisting of themselves, the mercenary [[Crater Cobras]], and the [[5th Syrtis Fusiliers]] RCT, who arrived en masse and headed for Sarna. Because of issues the Fusiliers had with Davion High Command and eager to prove themselves, they broke away from the Taskforce and headed at high G to reach the planet several days before the mercenaries did. The Fusiliers would be mauled and destroyed by the 4 regiments of [[McCarron's Armored Cavalry]] while the mercenaries were still on approach to the planet. The situation was compounded by the fact that the Fusiliers commander sent their JumpShips a message that all was proceeding as planned, prompting the JumpShips to leave system for other assignments and leave all of the Davion units stranded. | ||
| + | |||
| + | The Screaming Eagles and the Crater Cobras determined that they had to continue the attack, as it was stipulated in their contract. But they altered their invasion plans, as they were not sure at all what they were up against now. The mercenaries landed several hundred kilometers away in a heavily forest and jungle area, and began a slow guerrilla campaign that avoided coming out into the open and largely keeping their numbers hidden while they did their best to determine what they were up against. Neither the Davion nor Liao side could send out any messages due to a [[ComStar]] communications interdiction. To their part, the MAC also did not know what they were up against, believing the mercenaries to be much stronger in numbers than theirs. | ||
| + | |||
| + | This went on for almost seven months, and just as the MAC realized that they held the numerical advantage over the Davion mercenaries, they began to escalate their attacks and the Davion mercenaries were forced back. But then reinforcements for the Davions arrived in the form of the Heavy and Light Davion Brigade of Guards. With this massive reinforcements arriving, MAC commander [[Archie McCarron]] made the hard choice that they had lost and Sarna had to be abandoned. The MAC began loading their DropShips with as much as they could take, and the Crater Cobras and Screaming Eagles advanced on the drop zones, only to see their way blocked by the counterattack of the [[Second McCarron's Armored Cavalry]] regiment and their legendary leader, Colonel [[Marcus Barton]]. This shocked the Davion Mercenaries as their combined units outnumbered the counterattacking mercenaries. But Davion High Command wanted Barton killed for all the damage he had done to the Federated Suns, so the mercenaries sounded the attack and engaged. | ||
| + | |||
| + | The following battle lasted nearly two hours and was of the most brutal of the Fourth Succession War. Barton would lose over half his forces, and many of the surviving 'Mechs would be heading to the parts bins after the fight. But the Screaming Eagle would lose 3/4 of their strength, and the Crater Cobras almost 2/3 of their own strength in the fight. This battle gave the MAC the time it needed to finish loading their DropShips and were able to escape before the Davion Brigades of Guards arrived.<ref>''McCarron's Armored Cavalry'', p. 10</ref> | ||
| + | |||
====Pleione==== | ====Pleione==== | ||
House Davion contracted the Eagles for use both regiments to the [[House Liao]] world of [[Pleione]] in mid [[3028]] as part of their first action in the [[Fourth Succession War]]. | House Davion contracted the Eagles for use both regiments to the [[House Liao]] world of [[Pleione]] in mid [[3028]] as part of their first action in the [[Fourth Succession War]]. | ||
| − | The Third Battalion of [[McCrimmon's Light Cavalry]] was assigned to defend the planet. Initially, the Eagles' | + | The Third Battalion of [[McCrimmon's Light Cavalry]] was assigned to defend the planet. Initially, the Eagles' [[aerospace fighter]] coverage caught the Light Cavalry in the open and decimated them. However, the Light Cavalry survivors fell back to an ancient mountain top [[SLDF]] fortress called ''Thunder Rock''. The Fortress had been converted into a supply depot and headquarters. This allowed for the Light Cavalry's survivors to endure a three week siege to the frustration of the Eagles' top commander, [[Walther Hokala]]. It was not until the Eagles managed to move one of their smaller units to a mountaintop from which it worked its way through to the entrance and into the base. The fighting reduced the Third Battalion to a single 'Mech company forcing a surrender. With its defenders gone, Pleione's population was easily subdued by the mercenaries. |
| − | The Eagles then detached two battalions to garrison the planet and moved on to its next objective: Gan Singh.<ref>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'' p. 19 | + | The Eagles then detached two battalions to garrison the planet and moved on to its next objective: Gan Singh.<ref>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'', p. 19: First Wave - Assault of Pleione</ref> |
====Gan Singh==== | ====Gan Singh==== | ||
| − | On [[Gan Singh]], the planet's Militia fought well against the Eagles, but were defeated because of the Eagles' numerical superiority. The Eagles were backed up by the Fourth Garrison Force consisting of six regiments of garrison troops.<ref>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'' p. 32 | + | On [[Gan Singh]], the planet's Militia fought well against the Eagles, but were defeated because of the Eagles' numerical superiority. The Eagles were backed up by the Fourth Garrison Force consisting of six regiments of garrison troops.<ref>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'', p. 32: Other Second Wave Actions - Brief info on the conquest of Gan Singh</ref> |
====New Canton & Disgrace==== | ====New Canton & Disgrace==== | ||
During the invasion of [[New Canton]], regiments of the unit were divided to take certain objectives. The world was defended by the 1st Battalion of [[4th Confederation Reserve Cavalry]] and the 3rd Battalion of the [[Trimaldi's Secutors]]. | During the invasion of [[New Canton]], regiments of the unit were divided to take certain objectives. The world was defended by the 1st Battalion of [[4th Confederation Reserve Cavalry]] and the 3rd Battalion of the [[Trimaldi's Secutors]]. | ||
| − | ====Canton River==== | + | =====Canton River===== |
| − | The 1st Screaming Eagles, under command of [[Colonel]] [[Opson Mathis]], was tasked with hunting down the 4th Reserve who operated in the jungles of the north continent of New Canton. The 1st Regiment, along with its five supporting Almach | + | The 1st Screaming Eagles, under command of [[Colonel]] [[Opson Mathis]], was tasked with hunting down the 4th Reserve who operated in the jungles of the north continent of New Canton. The 1st Regiment, along with its five supporting Almach Foot Infantry regiments, fruitlessly hunted for Capellan units and their supporting infantry. The 4th Reserves took to conducting guerrilla warfare against the Eagles. The Capellans' Attack and Fade tactics enraged the 1st Eagles' commander. The 1st Eagles caught the 4th Reserves at the foot of washed up bridge at Canon River. Cornered and unable to retreat the Capellan 'Mech forces surrendered to the Eagles. However, Colonel Mathis, ignoring the House Davion's rules, had the surrendered MechWarriors welded into their cockpits and pushed into raging river. The 7th Almach Foot's commander [[Colonel]] [[Roberta Gathos]] arrived and discovered what happened. She demanded Mathis surrender, although he refused until the entire 1st Eagle walked to Gathos's side did he finally concede and surrender to her custody. The regiment was then temporarily transferred to Benson Yuli, who originally sided with Colonel Gathos.<ref>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'', p. 34: New Canton - Jungles of Canton River</ref><ref name="CMMp62"/> |
=====Fight in Blue Dragon Mountains===== | =====Fight in Blue Dragon Mountains===== | ||
| − | The 2nd Screaming Eagles, while under command of Colonel Hokala, moved to take out the Secutors | + | The 2nd Screaming Eagles, while under command of Colonel Hokala, moved to take out the Secutors who had been stationed in mountainous regions of the Southern Continent of New Canton. The 2nd Eagles, backed by the 5th Almach Tank & 18th & 21st Almach Foot Infantry Regiments pursued the Capellan forces into the Blue Dragon Mountains. The Secutors had fought well and inflicted heavy damage as they led the Eagle on a merry chase through the mountains. |
The frustrated Colonel Hokala decided to have garrison infantry airlifted ahead of the Secutors' advance into the Blue Mountain Pass. They would act as a holding force while 2nd Eagles came up from the rear and finished the Capellan forces. | The frustrated Colonel Hokala decided to have garrison infantry airlifted ahead of the Secutors' advance into the Blue Mountain Pass. They would act as a holding force while 2nd Eagles came up from the rear and finished the Capellan forces. | ||
| − | As the infantry forces delayed the Secutors' 'Mech forces, 2nd Eagle was attacked by Capellan tank forces. The New Canton Armored Guard conducted a suicidal assault against the Eagles in a bid to delay them. The tank | + | As the infantry forces delayed the Secutors' 'Mech forces, 2nd Eagle was attacked by Capellan tank forces. The New Canton Armored Guard conducted a suicidal assault against the Eagles in a bid to delay them. The tank regiment's sacrifice slowed the Eagles for six days which proved enough time to destroy two-thirds of the Davion infantry forces.<ref name=N4SWv1p35>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'', p. 35: New Canton - Blue Dragon pass</ref> |
| − | ====Aftermath of the New Canton==== | + | =====Aftermath of the New Canton===== |
| − | After this action the Eagles were tried and found not guilty of | + | After this action the Eagles were tried and found not guilty of wrongdoing, however both actions stained the unit's reputation permanently.<ref name=N4SWv1p35 /> This led to the unit's eventual expulsion from Davion service and Mathis was cashiered from service of the Screaming Eagles.<ref>''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised'', p. 99: aftermath of Fourth Succession War, it was reported that the unit had been expelled from House Davion service</ref><ref name="CMMp62"/> |
===War of 3039=== | ===War of 3039=== | ||
| − | ==== | + | ====Misjump to Elidere IV==== |
| − | Still in the service of the now [[Federated Commonwealth]], the unit was contracted to | + | Still in the service of the now [[Federated Commonwealth]], the unit was contracted to back up [[1st Ceti Hussars|1st Ceti Hussars RCT]] in the [[War of 3039|invasion]] of the [[Draconis Combine]]. The units deployed in April of [[3039]] towards their target world of [[Elidere IV]]. During transit the Eagles' main JumpShip plotted an incorrect jump point and sent the bulk of the forces to a secondary rallying point in an uninhabited system. The Ceti Hussars' commander of the mission, Marshal Patrick Meldon, thought the bulk of the mercenaries were either lost or dead. The Eagles finally arrived just as Marshal Meldon's 1st Ceti Hussars finished conquering the planet.<ref>''Historical: War of 3039'', pp. 54–55: First Wave / Elidere IV - Unit actions during invasion, including navigator sending the Eagles' JumpShip to wrong system</ref><ref name="CMMp62"/> |
====Fight to hold Elidere IV==== | ====Fight to hold Elidere IV==== | ||
| − | On 11 July, the 1st Screaming Eagles were assigned to garrison Elidere while Marshal Meldon departed with the 1st Ceti for their invasion of [[Misery]]. However, shortly on 26th July, unmarked JumpShips with unmarked military DropShips arrived in system. Reports of Combine forces | + | On 11 July, the 1st Screaming Eagles were assigned to garrison Elidere while Marshal Meldon departed with the 1st Ceti for their invasion of [[Misery]]. However, shortly on 26th July, unmarked JumpShips with unmarked military DropShips arrived in-system. Reports of Combine forces counterattacking the invasion along the invasion corridor alerted the Eagles' commanding officer, Colonel Hokala. He drafted a number of plans to try and counter a large attacking force. He decided on a plan to fill the battlefield with an extensive smoke screen to allow a demi-battalion's worth of 'Mechs to hit the enemy under cover of the smoke. |
On August 5th, the unhurried DropShips landed two BattleMech Regiments. Their 'Mechs, painted only in ghostly white, included some ancient designs last fielded by the [[Star League]] centuries ago. | On August 5th, the unhurried DropShips landed two BattleMech Regiments. Their 'Mechs, painted only in ghostly white, included some ancient designs last fielded by the [[Star League]] centuries ago. | ||
| − | The two forces met on the plains outside of Jasco City where the Eagles attempted to employ the smoke screen. The mysterious | + | The two forces met on the plains outside of Jasco City where the Eagles attempted to employ the smoke screen. The mysterious force's weaponry outranged their 'Mech weapons. Hokala ordered his LRM launchers to fire and fill the plains with smoke. However, the mysterious Combine 'Mechs, in an unprecedented display of precision, shot down the missiles. This left gaps in the smokescreen of the attacking demi-battalion and they were easily destroyed. |
| − | Within a half-hour the Screaming Eagles lost half their numbers. Colonel Hokala signaled the mysterious enemy that he was willing to surrender and withdraw. A ''[[Hatamoto-Chi]]'' BattleMech lifted its arm to signal a halt to hostilities. They allowed the Eagles to recover only their ejected MechWarriors, and destroyed any vehicle attempting to salvage equipment from the battlefield. Shortly after, the Eagles left the planet to what was later named the [[9th Ghost|9th]] and [[10th Ghost]] Regiments.<ref>''Historical: War of 3039'', pp. | + | Within a half-hour the Screaming Eagles lost half their numbers. Colonel Hokala signaled the mysterious enemy that he was willing to surrender and withdraw. A ''[[Hatamoto-Chi]]'' BattleMech lifted its arm to signal a halt to hostilities. They allowed the Eagles to recover only their ejected MechWarriors, and destroyed any vehicle attempting to salvage equipment from the battlefield. Shortly after, the Eagles left the planet to what was later named the [[9th Ghost|9th]] and [[10th Ghost]] Regiments.<ref>''Historical: War of 3039'', pp. 106–107: The Eagles fight with Star League tech equipped 9th and 10th Ghost regiments, and their defeat</ref><ref name="CMMp62"/> |
====Misery==== | ====Misery==== | ||
| − | The 2nd Screaming Eagles regiment was assigned to Marshal Patrick Meldon's task force. They jumped off world of [[Glenmora]] to Elidere I. From there they jumped to Misery, where they just missed the ''[[Ryuken-roku]]'' departing the system for another assault. Before the 2nd | + | The 2nd Screaming Eagles regiment was assigned to Marshal Patrick Meldon's task force. They jumped off world of [[Glenmora]] to Elidere I. From there they jumped to Misery, where they just missed the ''[[Ryuken-roku]]'' departing the system for another assault. Before the 2nd Eagles' task force could move to take the planet they were told to put their invasion plans on hold. The ships of the task force remained in orbit of Misery for three weeks, until returning to their JumpShips and heading back to Glenmora.<ref>''Historical: War of 3039'', p. 111: Misery & 2nd Screaming Eagles - 2nd Eagles' actions at Misery and recall</ref> |
===In Service of the Periphery and Chaos March=== | ===In Service of the Periphery and Chaos March=== | ||
| − | By [[3053]], the unit found itself in service of the [[Magistracy of Canopus]] with whom they signed a long-term defense contract. The unit was loaned out to its [[Trinity Alliance]] partner, House Liao, who deployed the Eagles to [[Chaos March]] to conduct unspecified tasks for the Alliance. | + | By [[3053]], the unit found itself in service of the [[Magistracy of Canopus]] with whom they signed a long-term defense contract. The unit was loaned out to its [[Trinity Alliance]] partner, House Liao, who deployed the Eagles to [[Chaos March]] to conduct unspecified tasks for the Alliance. |
| − | In [[3062]] while on [[Epsilon Eridani]] the 2nd Screaming Eagles were ambushed by [[Word of Blake|Word of Blake's]] [[1st Division (Word of Blake)|1st Division]]. The Blakist attack shattered the regiment and forced them to retreat. They reached the Capellan world of [[Kaifeng]] where landing was refused. The 1st Screaming Eagles abandoned its garrison contract to meet with their near-destroyed comrades on [[Outreach]]. The Blakists then exposed a secret decade-long deal between the 2nd Eagles and House Davion to spy for them since [[3055]]. The contract with Canopus was subsequently | + | In [[3062]] while on [[Epsilon Eridani]] the 2nd Screaming Eagles were ambushed by [[Word of Blake|Word of Blake's]] [[1st Division (Word of Blake)|1st Division]]. The Blakist attack shattered the regiment and forced them to retreat. They reached the Capellan world of [[Kaifeng]] where landing was refused. The 1st Screaming Eagles abandoned its garrison contract to meet with their near-destroyed comrades on [[Outreach]]. The Blakists then exposed a secret decade-long deal between the 2nd Eagles and House Davion to spy for them since [[3055]]. The contract with Canopus was subsequently canceled based on the charge of spying for a foreign power. This forced them to return to the only realm that would accept them, House Davion.<ref>''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised'', p. 99: Unit actions in Chaos March for Trinity Alliance and exposed spying mission</ref> |
| − | ===Return to | + | ===Return to the Federated Suns and on the Periphery Border=== |
| − | The unit, unable to rebuild itself, consolidated into a reinforced BattleMech Regiment and reinforced [[Combined Arms|combined arms]] regiment of armored vehicles and infantry. The unit then entered the service of Duke [[James Sandoval]] of the [[Draconis March]]. The March Lord assigned the unit to garrison the [[Outworlds Alliance]] border world of [[Kilbourne]]. This prevented the | + | The unit, unable to rebuild itself, consolidated into a reinforced BattleMech Regiment and reinforced [[Combined Arms|combined arms]] regiment of armored vehicles and infantry. The unit then entered the service of Duke [[James Sandoval]] of the [[Draconis March]]. The March Lord assigned the unit to garrison the [[Outworlds Alliance]] border world of [[Kilbourne]]. This prevented the unit's involvement in the [[FedCom Civil War]]. |
===Jihad=== | ===Jihad=== | ||
| − | In October [[3071]], the Eagles received orders from Draconis March Intelligence Command, which ordered the unit to strike the [[Outworlds Alliance]] planet of [[Ramora]] in | + | In October [[3071]], the Eagles received orders from Draconis March Intelligence Command, which ordered the unit to strike the [[Outworlds Alliance]] planet of [[Ramora]] in preemptive attack against Blakist forces. Leaving behind the unit's Fourth BattleMech Battalion and the 77th Armor to garrison Kilbourne they attacked. |
| − | The units on the strike mission used pirate points to slip by the | + | The units on the strike mission used pirate points to slip by the planet's would-be Blakist defenders. The unit's executive officer, Lt. Colonel [[Chris Lewis (Screaming Eagles)|Chris Lewis]], identified the defenders as [[Clan Snow Raven]]. Despite their fast entry, the world's protectors were waiting for them. A [[Trinary]] from the [[6th Raven Battle (Clan Snow Raven)|Sixth Raven Battle]] [[Cluster]] and the [[Alliance Borderers|Outworlds Alliance Borderers]] moved to engage them in a battle. The Eagles won the day but suffered fifty percent casualties including their lead strategist, Lt. Colonel Lewis. |
| − | After salvaging Clan equipment the unit returned to base only to find the rest of the | + | After salvaging Clan equipment the unit returned to base only to find the rest of the Sixth Raven Battle Cluster was striking back at them. The 77th Armor's artillery assets solely held back the angry Clanners and their Alliance airborne allies. Colonel Tam Lafayette's battered command managed to tip the balance of the battle and led to the destruction of the entire Snow Raven Cluster. |
| − | Shortly after the battle, Lafayette contacted March's intelligence command to report what happened and discovered that command never ordered them to strike the Alliance at all. A false order from unknown parties possibly caused the Eagles to trigger the border war with the newly-arrived Clan.<ref>''Mercenaries Supplemental Update'' p. 105 | + | Shortly after the battle, Lafayette contacted the March's intelligence command to report what happened and discovered that command never ordered them to strike the Alliance at all. A false order from unknown parties possibly caused the Eagles to trigger the border war with the newly-arrived Clan.<ref name=MSUp105>''Mercenaries Supplemental Update'', p. 105: Screaming Eagle fluff up to 3071</ref> |
The Screaming Eagles had lost many of their BattleMechs, but to compensate for this they increased their conventional forces and began deploying battle armor troops. Even though they still need to rebuild nearly forty percent of their forces in [[3079]], this regiment is stationed on [[Kentwood]] as the cornerstone of the Federated Suns' defense against aggression from the [[Outworlds Alliance]] and their [[Clan Snow Raven]] partners.<ref name="fra20">''Field Report: AFFS'', p. 20</ref> | The Screaming Eagles had lost many of their BattleMechs, but to compensate for this they increased their conventional forces and began deploying battle armor troops. Even though they still need to rebuild nearly forty percent of their forces in [[3079]], this regiment is stationed on [[Kentwood]] as the cornerstone of the Federated Suns' defense against aggression from the [[Outworlds Alliance]] and their [[Clan Snow Raven]] partners.<ref name="fra20">''Field Report: AFFS'', p. 20</ref> | ||
==Officers== | ==Officers== | ||
| − | + | {| class="wikitable" | |
| − | + | |- | |
| − | + | ! scope="col" width="220" style="background: #dedede;" | Rank | |
| − | + | ! scope="col" width="220" style="background: #dedede;" | Name | |
| − | + | ! scope="col" width="220" style="background: #dedede;" | Command | |
| + | |- | ||
| + | | colspan="4" style="background: #efefef;" | '''Commanding Officers of the 250th BattleMech Division''' | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | | [[Major General]]||[[Samuel Casteel]]||[[2759]]-[[2764]]<ref name=FM:SLDFp99/> | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | | colspan="4" style="background: #efefef;" | '''Commanding Officers of the Screaming Eagles''' | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | | [[Colonel]]||[[Walther Hokala]]||[[3025]]<ref name=HDp138>''House Davion (The Federated Suns)'', p. 138: Commanding Officer of the unit listed</ref> | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | | [[Colonel]]||[[Paul Hokola]]||[[3050]] - [[3059]]<ref name=20yup23/><ref name=FMMercsp112/> | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | | Colonel||[[Samuel Layette|Samuel "Buck" Layette]]||[[3059]]<ref>''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised'', p. 99: Unit commander start time and as of 3067</ref> | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | | Colonel||[[Tam Lafayette]]||[[3061]] - [[3071]]<ref name=FMMRp99>''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised'', p. 99: Unit commander information of 3067 and her weaknesses</ref><ref name=MSUp105/> | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | |} | ||
==Tactics== | ==Tactics== | ||
===3067=== | ===3067=== | ||
| − | The unit practices the use of [[Combined Arms]] to better support their infantry and armor units. The unit employs [[Arrow IV]] on their | + | The unit practices the use of [[Combined Arms]] to better support their infantry and armor units. The unit employs [[Arrow IV]] on their aerospace fighter to devastate an enemy, after the main unit softens them up.<ref>''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised'', p. 99: Tactics as of [[3067]]</ref> |
==Unit Colors & Insignia== | ==Unit Colors & Insignia== | ||
| Line 115: | Line 142: | ||
'''250th BattleMech Division''' | '''250th BattleMech Division''' | ||
*[[555th Honor Guard Brigade]] | *[[555th Honor Guard Brigade]] | ||
| − | **[[77th Heavy Armor Regiment]] | + | **[[77th Heavy Armor Regiment]] |
*[[556th Honor Guard Brigade]] | *[[556th Honor Guard Brigade]] | ||
| + | |||
===2764=== | ===2764=== | ||
'''250th BattleMech Division''' | '''250th BattleMech Division''' | ||
| − | *The [[2nd Armored Cavalry RCT|Second (conventional) Armored Cavalry RCT]] and an additional Infantry Brigade are attached along with two Mercenary BattleMech Battalions.<ref name=FM:SLDFp99>''Field Manual: SLDF'', p. 99 | + | *The [[2nd Armored Cavalry RCT|Second (conventional) Armored Cavalry RCT]] and an additional Infantry Brigade are attached along with two Mercenary BattleMech Battalions.<ref name=FM:SLDFp99>''Field Manual: SLDF'', p. 99: "250th BattleMech Division"</ref> |
| + | |||
| + | === 2786 - 2821=== | ||
| + | '''Bald Eagles''' (Regiment/Veteran/Reliable)<ref name=1SWp135>''First Succession War'', p. 135</ref> | ||
| + | : Note: At this point in time the heavy-weight unit was stationed on [[Tawas]]. In 2821 the command was reduced to 30 percent of its strength and was deployed on [[Tedibyhr]].<ref name=1SWp135/> | ||
| + | |||
| + | '''Golden Eagles''' (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=1SWp135>''First Succession War'', p. 135</ref> | ||
| + | : Note: At this point in time the heavy-weight unit was stationed on [[Edwards]]. In 2821 the command was reduced to 38 percent of its strength and was deployed on [[Tedibyhr]].<ref name=1SWp135/> | ||
| + | |||
| + | '''Storm Eagles''' (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=1SWp135>''First Succession War'', p. 135</ref> | ||
| + | : Note: At this point in time the medium-weight unit was stationed on [[Waycross]]. In 2821 the command was reduced to 33 percent of its strength and was deployed on [[Robinson]].<ref name=1SWp135/> | ||
| + | |||
| + | '''Night Eagles''' (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=1SWp135>''First Succession War'', p. 135</ref> | ||
| + | : Note: At this point in time the light-weight unit was stationed on [[Logandale]]. In 2821 the command was reduced to 45 percent of its strength and was deployed on [[Robinson]].<ref name=1SWp135/> | ||
| + | |||
| + | '''Snow Eagles''' (Regiment/Veteran/Reliable)<ref name=1SWp135>''First Succession War'', p. 135</ref> | ||
| + | : Note: At this point in time the medium-weight unit was stationed on [[Goderich]]. In 2821 the command was reduced to 34 percent of its strength and was deployed on [[Robinson]].<ref name=1SWp135/> | ||
| + | |||
| + | === 2830 === | ||
| + | '''1st Screaming Eagles''' (Regiment/Veteran/Reliable)<ref name=2SWp95>''Second Succession War'', p. 95</ref> | ||
| + | : Note: At this point in time the assault-weight unit was stationed on [[Demeter]] with an operational readiness of 100 percent.<ref name=2SWp95/> | ||
| + | |||
| + | '''2nd Screaming Eagles''' (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=2SWp95>''Second Succession War'', p. 95</ref> | ||
| + | : Note: At this point in time the assault-weight unit was stationed on [[Tedibyhr]] with an operational readiness of 100 percent.<ref name=2SWp95/> | ||
| + | |||
| + | === 2864 === | ||
| + | '''1st Screaming Eagles''' (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=2SWp95/> | ||
| + | : Note: At this point in time the heavy-weight unit was stationed on [[Elbar]] with an operational readiness of 17 percent.<ref name=2SWp95/> | ||
| + | |||
| + | '''2nd Screaming Eagles''' (Regiment/Veteran/Fanatical)<ref name=2SWp95/> | ||
| + | : Note: At this point in time the assault-weight unit was stationed on [[Elbar]] with an operational readiness of 70 percent.<ref name=2SWp95/> | ||
===3025=== | ===3025=== | ||
| − | Screaming Eagles (2 regiments | + | '''Screaming Eagles''' (2 regiments/Regular/Reliable) - AFFS<ref name=HDp138/> |
| − | :*CO: Colonel Walther Hokala | + | :*CO: Colonel Walther Hokala<ref name=HDp138/> |
| − | + | :; 1st Screaming Eagles : CO: Colonel Opson Mathis<ref>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'', p. 34: Disgraced 2nd Eagles' regimental commander named</ref> | |
| − | + | :; 2nd Screaming Eagles : CO: Colonel Walther Hokala (Regimental Commander)<ref>''NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1'', p. 35: 2nd Regiment under the top commander of the Eagles, Colonel Hokala</ref> | |
| − | :The | + | :Note: At this point in time the unit was stationed on [[Skepptana]]. The unit additionally consisted of [[aerospace fighter]]s, [[combat vehicle|armor]] & infantry units.<ref>''House Davion (The Federated Suns)'', pp. 138, 150</ref> The Eagles have no DropShips of their own, but do own a [[JumpShip]]. |
| − | |||
| − | |||
===3040=== | ===3040=== | ||
'''Screaming Eagles''' | '''Screaming Eagles''' | ||
| − | *1st Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=HWO3039>''Historical: War of 3039'' , p. 141 | + | *1st Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=HWO3039>''Historical: War of 3039'', p. 141</ref> |
| + | :Note: At this point in time the command was stationed on [[Mararn]].<ref name=HWO3039/> | ||
| + | |||
*2nd Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=HWO3039/> | *2nd Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=HWO3039/> | ||
| + | :Note: At this point in time the command was stationed on [[Sodertalje]].<ref name=HWO3039/> | ||
===3050=== | ===3050=== | ||
| − | '''Screaming Eagles''' | + | '''1st Screaming Eagles ''' (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=20yup23/> |
| − | * | + | :* CO: Colonel Paul Hokola<ref name=20yup23/> |
| − | *2nd | + | :Note: At this point in time the command was stationed on [[Mararn]].<ref name=20yup23>''20 Year Update'', p. 23</ref> |
| + | |||
| + | '''2nd Screaming Eagles ''' (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=20yup23/> | ||
| + | :* CO: Colonel Zarfina Warrick<ref name=20yup23/> | ||
| + | :Note: At this point in time the command was stationed on [[Sodertalje]].<ref name=20yup23>''20 Year Update'', p. 23</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===3059=== | ||
| + | '''1st Regiment ''' (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)<ref name=FMMercsp112/> | ||
| + | :* CO: Colonel Paul Hokola<ref name=FMMercsp112>''Field Manual: Mercenaries'', p. 112</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | '''2nd Regiment ''' (Regiment/Regular/Questionable)<ref name=FMMercsp112/> | ||
| + | :* CO: Colonel Zarfina Warrick<ref name=FMMercsp112/> | ||
| + | : Note: At this point in time the unit was stationed on [[Kaifeng]].<ref name=FMMercsp112>''Field Manual: Mercenaries'', p. 112</ref> | ||
===3067=== | ===3067=== | ||
'''Screaming Eagles''' (Reinforced BattleMech Regiment) - CO: Colonel Tam Lafayette | '''Screaming Eagles''' (Reinforced BattleMech Regiment) - CO: Colonel Tam Lafayette | ||
| − | *1st Battalion - CO & Unit XO: [[Leutnant-Colonel|Lt. Colonel]] Chris Lewis | + | *1st Battalion - CO & Unit XO: [[Leutnant-Colonel|Lt. Colonel]] [[Chris Lewis (Screaming Eagles)|Chris Lewis]] |
*2nd Battalion CO: [[Major]] Alexander Cohen | *2nd Battalion CO: [[Major]] Alexander Cohen | ||
*3rd Battalion CO: Major Louis Chasteen | *3rd Battalion CO: Major Louis Chasteen | ||
*4th Battalion CO: Tu Faes D'Lihar | *4th Battalion CO: Tu Faes D'Lihar | ||
| − | :All battalions mainly employ | + | :All battalions mainly employ medium BattleMechs with only a mixed company of Heavy & Assault 'Mechs. Additionally, each Battalion has extra Battalion Command Lance & regiment's Regimental Command Lance of BattleMechs. |
| − | *77th Heavy Armor (Reinforced [[Combat Vehicle|Armor]] Regiment) - CO: Lt. Colonel Roger Durling | + | *77th Heavy Armor (Reinforced [[Combat Vehicle|Armor]] Regiment) - CO: Lt. Colonel Roger Durling |
:By 3067, the Unit has folded its two parachute trained Infantry battalions into 77th Heavy. Each of the 77th's Battalions have a [[platoon]] of Battle Armor assigned to it. Also assign is a company of Mobile Artillery. | :By 3067, the Unit has folded its two parachute trained Infantry battalions into 77th Heavy. Each of the 77th's Battalions have a [[platoon]] of Battle Armor assigned to it. Also assign is a company of Mobile Artillery. | ||
| − | *Support: the unit now owns enough DropShip and JumpShip assets to be able transport the entire mercenary force.<ref>''Field Manual: Mercenaries | + | *Support: the unit now owns enough DropShip and JumpShip assets to be able transport the entire mercenary force.<ref>''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised'', p. 99: Unit details in 3067</ref> |
===3071=== | ===3071=== | ||
'''Screaming Eagles''' (7 BattleMech [[Lance|Lances]]) - CO: Colonel Tam Lafayette | '''Screaming Eagles''' (7 BattleMech [[Lance|Lances]]) - CO: Colonel Tam Lafayette | ||
| − | *77th Heavy Armor (2 Combined Arms Battalions) | + | *77th Heavy Armor (2 Combined Arms Battalions) |
| − | :Unit Mech forces consist of only a company worth of OmniMechs salvaged from battle with the Snow | + | :Unit 'Mech forces consist of only a company's worth of OmniMechs salvaged from battle with the Snow Ravens' 6th Battle Cluster. The 77th Heavy Armor is now reduced to two battalions of operational equipment.<ref>''Mercenaries Supplemental Update'', p. 105: Screaming Eagles - Unit status in 3071 from Merc Update book</ref> |
| − | |||
===3079=== | ===3079=== | ||
| − | '''Screaming Eagles''' | + | '''Screaming Eagles ''' (Regiment/Veteran/Reliable)<ref name=“fraffs19“>''Field Report: AFFS'', p. 19</ref> |
| − | :Though they were reduced to two thirds of their pre-Jihad strength in BattleMechs, the Screaming Eagles compensated for this by increasing the number of tanks and battle armor infantry units they could put in the field.<ref name="fra20"/> | + | : Note: At this point in time the unit was stationed on [[Kentwood]].<ref name=“fraffs19“/> Though they were reduced to two thirds of their pre-Jihad strength in BattleMechs, the Screaming Eagles compensated for this by increasing the number of tanks and battle armor infantry units they could put in the field.<ref name="fra20"/> |
==Notes== | ==Notes== | ||
| − | Unit | + | * Unit components are only known though the Screaming Eagles' mercenary profiles. Along with 77th Heavy Armor regiment, a 53rd Battalion belonging to the Eagles' 2nd Brigade had survived to brigade was heavily damaged in mid [[thirty-first century]]. It is not clear which brigade the battalion belonged to.<ref>''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised'', p. 99</ref> |
| − | |||
| − | |||
<div class=gamerules> | <div class=gamerules> | ||
===Game Rules=== | ===Game Rules=== | ||
| − | ====Field Manual: Mercenaries | + | ====''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised''==== |
Using [[Force Specific Rules]], the Eagles employ the following abilities for scenarios. They receive A Rated Equipment. The unit may employ bombers. If used, these attacking aerospace fighters allow all the Eagles to receive +3 to their initiative for the entire scenario. | Using [[Force Specific Rules]], the Eagles employ the following abilities for scenarios. They receive A Rated Equipment. The unit may employ bombers. If used, these attacking aerospace fighters allow all the Eagles to receive +3 to their initiative for the entire scenario. | ||
| − | If the | + | If the aerospace fighters/bombers are not used in the scenario the Eagles can receive a +1 to their initiative if they are using combined arms formation consisting of more than one type unit. (Tanks, Infantry, etc.) Should the unit be defenders of the scenario they suffer from a -2 initiative.<ref>''Field Manual: Mercenaries'', p. 135: Rules - Force Specific Rules for the Screaming Eagles</ref> |
| − | ====Mercenaries Supplemental Update==== | + | ====''Mercenaries Supplemental Update''==== |
| − | The unit still uses rules listed from | + | The unit still uses rules listed from ''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised'', however their Equipment Rating drops to C.<ref>''Mercenaries Supplemental Update'', p. 127: Equipment Rating in Rules section changes, but not abilities from ''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised''</ref> |
</div> | </div> | ||
| + | |||
==References== | ==References== | ||
<references /> | <references /> | ||
| + | |||
==Bibliography== | ==Bibliography== | ||
| − | *''[[Field Manual: Mercenaries | + | <div class="desktop-3-col"> |
| − | *''[[ | + | * ''[[20 Year Update]]'' |
| − | *''[[ | + | * ''[[Combat Manual: Mercenaries]]'' |
| − | *''[[ | + | * ''[[Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised]]'' |
| − | *''[[Mercenaries Supplemental Update]]'' | + | * ''[[Field Manual: SLDF]]'' |
| − | *''[[ | + | * ''[[Field Report: AFFS]]'' |
| − | *''[[Objective Raids]]'' | + | * ''[[First Succession War (sourcebook)|First Succession War]]'' |
| − | *''[[ | + | * ''[[Historical: War of 3039]]'' |
| + | * ''[[House Davion (The Federated Suns)]]'' | ||
| + | * ''[[Mercenaries Supplemental Update]]'' | ||
| + | * ''[[NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1]]'' | ||
| + | * ''[[Objective Raids]]'' | ||
| + | * ''[[Second Succession War (sourcebook)|Second Succession War]]'' | ||
| + | </div> | ||
| + | |||
[[Category:Mercenary Commands]] | [[Category:Mercenary Commands]] | ||
Latest revision as of 01:41, 31 March 2024
| |
| Screaming Eagles | |
| Previous Designation(s) | 250th BattleMech Division |
| Affiliation | Mercenary SLDF |
| Parent Command | Independent |
The Screaming Eagles are a mercenary unit noted for an illustrious battle record stretching back to their days as the Star League Defense Force's Regular Army as the 250th BattleMech Division.
Contents
- 1 History
- 2 Officers
- 3 Tactics
- 4 Unit Colors & Insignia
- 5 Dragoon Ratings
- 6 Composition History
- 7 Notes
- 8 References
- 9 Bibliography
History[edit]
Star League[edit]
The Division (then nicknamed The Stalingrad Division) was assigned in 2764, as a part of the LVIII Corps, Seventh Army, to District 3 of the Capellan Confederation Military Region.
The unit was part of the force that was deployed to the Periphery in 2765, to participate in the offensive to put down second Periphery rebellion. The 250th fought in the Periphery campaign successfully and joined General Kerensky in his campaign to liberation of the Terran Hegemony.
Unlike many of its fellow Seventh Army units, the Division survived the Star League Civil War. However, the unit's loyalties to Kerensky fractured when he called for the SLDF to take part in Operation EXODUS. Only parts of the Division would travel with Kerensky on his Exodus in 2784.[1]
The 555th Honor Guard Brigade and 556th Honor Guard Brigade would remain in the Inner Sphere and entered the service of Federated Suns as the mercenary unit, the Screaming Eagles.[2] A battalion of the 250th also joined the AFFS directly, joining with battalions recruited from the 199th Dragoon Regiment and 396th Dragoon Regiment to form the Third Ceti Hussars.[3]
Early Succession Wars[edit]
The Screaming Eagles did not fare well during the First Succession War and had been reduced to only two Regiments by the end of the Second Succession War.[4]
Second Succession War[edit]
Having been stationed on the Federated Suns border with the Outworlds Alliance, the Thirty-ninth Avalon Hussars were in the process of being relocated to the Capellan March in preparation for Operation DAO when the Capellan Confederation Armed Forces launched Operation CELT, another attempt to capture Chesterton. The Thirty-ninth were retasked, joining the Bald Eagles regiment of the Screaming Eagles in the relief of besieged Fourth Syrtis Fusiliers on Demeter. The arrival of the Thirty-ninth and the Bald Eagles in the Demeter system on the 30th of June 2828 and the news of the death of Chancellor Ilsa Liao on Orbisonia convinced the senior CCAF officer, Colonel Jiang Bao, to withdraw his forces. Having inflicted heavy damage on the Fusiliers, the Twenty-fifth Sian Dragoons and First Redfield Regulars withdrew, and First Prince Paul Davion would subsequently award Colonel Damien Hasek, the Commanding Officer of the Fusiliers, the dukedom of New Syrtis for his actions in defense of Demeter.[5]
The Fourth Succession War[edit]
While still in service of House Davion, the unit participated in First Prince Hanse Davion's Operation Rat. The unit was garrisoned on Skepptana prior to beginning of the war.[6]
Sarna[edit]
The Screaming Eagles were part of a major Taskforce consisting of themselves, the mercenary Crater Cobras, and the 5th Syrtis Fusiliers RCT, who arrived en masse and headed for Sarna. Because of issues the Fusiliers had with Davion High Command and eager to prove themselves, they broke away from the Taskforce and headed at high G to reach the planet several days before the mercenaries did. The Fusiliers would be mauled and destroyed by the 4 regiments of McCarron's Armored Cavalry while the mercenaries were still on approach to the planet. The situation was compounded by the fact that the Fusiliers commander sent their JumpShips a message that all was proceeding as planned, prompting the JumpShips to leave system for other assignments and leave all of the Davion units stranded.
The Screaming Eagles and the Crater Cobras determined that they had to continue the attack, as it was stipulated in their contract. But they altered their invasion plans, as they were not sure at all what they were up against now. The mercenaries landed several hundred kilometers away in a heavily forest and jungle area, and began a slow guerrilla campaign that avoided coming out into the open and largely keeping their numbers hidden while they did their best to determine what they were up against. Neither the Davion nor Liao side could send out any messages due to a ComStar communications interdiction. To their part, the MAC also did not know what they were up against, believing the mercenaries to be much stronger in numbers than theirs.
This went on for almost seven months, and just as the MAC realized that they held the numerical advantage over the Davion mercenaries, they began to escalate their attacks and the Davion mercenaries were forced back. But then reinforcements for the Davions arrived in the form of the Heavy and Light Davion Brigade of Guards. With this massive reinforcements arriving, MAC commander Archie McCarron made the hard choice that they had lost and Sarna had to be abandoned. The MAC began loading their DropShips with as much as they could take, and the Crater Cobras and Screaming Eagles advanced on the drop zones, only to see their way blocked by the counterattack of the Second McCarron's Armored Cavalry regiment and their legendary leader, Colonel Marcus Barton. This shocked the Davion Mercenaries as their combined units outnumbered the counterattacking mercenaries. But Davion High Command wanted Barton killed for all the damage he had done to the Federated Suns, so the mercenaries sounded the attack and engaged.
The following battle lasted nearly two hours and was of the most brutal of the Fourth Succession War. Barton would lose over half his forces, and many of the surviving 'Mechs would be heading to the parts bins after the fight. But the Screaming Eagle would lose 3/4 of their strength, and the Crater Cobras almost 2/3 of their own strength in the fight. This battle gave the MAC the time it needed to finish loading their DropShips and were able to escape before the Davion Brigades of Guards arrived.[7]
Pleione[edit]
House Davion contracted the Eagles for use both regiments to the House Liao world of Pleione in mid 3028 as part of their first action in the Fourth Succession War.
The Third Battalion of McCrimmon's Light Cavalry was assigned to defend the planet. Initially, the Eagles' aerospace fighter coverage caught the Light Cavalry in the open and decimated them. However, the Light Cavalry survivors fell back to an ancient mountain top SLDF fortress called Thunder Rock. The Fortress had been converted into a supply depot and headquarters. This allowed for the Light Cavalry's survivors to endure a three week siege to the frustration of the Eagles' top commander, Walther Hokala. It was not until the Eagles managed to move one of their smaller units to a mountaintop from which it worked its way through to the entrance and into the base. The fighting reduced the Third Battalion to a single 'Mech company forcing a surrender. With its defenders gone, Pleione's population was easily subdued by the mercenaries.
The Eagles then detached two battalions to garrison the planet and moved on to its next objective: Gan Singh.[8]
Gan Singh[edit]
On Gan Singh, the planet's Militia fought well against the Eagles, but were defeated because of the Eagles' numerical superiority. The Eagles were backed up by the Fourth Garrison Force consisting of six regiments of garrison troops.[9]
New Canton & Disgrace[edit]
During the invasion of New Canton, regiments of the unit were divided to take certain objectives. The world was defended by the 1st Battalion of 4th Confederation Reserve Cavalry and the 3rd Battalion of the Trimaldi's Secutors.
Canton River[edit]
The 1st Screaming Eagles, under command of Colonel Opson Mathis, was tasked with hunting down the 4th Reserve who operated in the jungles of the north continent of New Canton. The 1st Regiment, along with its five supporting Almach Foot Infantry regiments, fruitlessly hunted for Capellan units and their supporting infantry. The 4th Reserves took to conducting guerrilla warfare against the Eagles. The Capellans' Attack and Fade tactics enraged the 1st Eagles' commander. The 1st Eagles caught the 4th Reserves at the foot of washed up bridge at Canon River. Cornered and unable to retreat the Capellan 'Mech forces surrendered to the Eagles. However, Colonel Mathis, ignoring the House Davion's rules, had the surrendered MechWarriors welded into their cockpits and pushed into raging river. The 7th Almach Foot's commander Colonel Roberta Gathos arrived and discovered what happened. She demanded Mathis surrender, although he refused until the entire 1st Eagle walked to Gathos's side did he finally concede and surrender to her custody. The regiment was then temporarily transferred to Benson Yuli, who originally sided with Colonel Gathos.[10][4]
Fight in Blue Dragon Mountains[edit]
The 2nd Screaming Eagles, while under command of Colonel Hokala, moved to take out the Secutors who had been stationed in mountainous regions of the Southern Continent of New Canton. The 2nd Eagles, backed by the 5th Almach Tank & 18th & 21st Almach Foot Infantry Regiments pursued the Capellan forces into the Blue Dragon Mountains. The Secutors had fought well and inflicted heavy damage as they led the Eagle on a merry chase through the mountains.
The frustrated Colonel Hokala decided to have garrison infantry airlifted ahead of the Secutors' advance into the Blue Mountain Pass. They would act as a holding force while 2nd Eagles came up from the rear and finished the Capellan forces.
As the infantry forces delayed the Secutors' 'Mech forces, 2nd Eagle was attacked by Capellan tank forces. The New Canton Armored Guard conducted a suicidal assault against the Eagles in a bid to delay them. The tank regiment's sacrifice slowed the Eagles for six days which proved enough time to destroy two-thirds of the Davion infantry forces.[11]
Aftermath of the New Canton[edit]
After this action the Eagles were tried and found not guilty of wrongdoing, however both actions stained the unit's reputation permanently.[11] This led to the unit's eventual expulsion from Davion service and Mathis was cashiered from service of the Screaming Eagles.[12][4]
War of 3039[edit]
Misjump to Elidere IV[edit]
Still in the service of the now Federated Commonwealth, the unit was contracted to back up 1st Ceti Hussars RCT in the invasion of the Draconis Combine. The units deployed in April of 3039 towards their target world of Elidere IV. During transit the Eagles' main JumpShip plotted an incorrect jump point and sent the bulk of the forces to a secondary rallying point in an uninhabited system. The Ceti Hussars' commander of the mission, Marshal Patrick Meldon, thought the bulk of the mercenaries were either lost or dead. The Eagles finally arrived just as Marshal Meldon's 1st Ceti Hussars finished conquering the planet.[13][4]
Fight to hold Elidere IV[edit]
On 11 July, the 1st Screaming Eagles were assigned to garrison Elidere while Marshal Meldon departed with the 1st Ceti for their invasion of Misery. However, shortly on 26th July, unmarked JumpShips with unmarked military DropShips arrived in-system. Reports of Combine forces counterattacking the invasion along the invasion corridor alerted the Eagles' commanding officer, Colonel Hokala. He drafted a number of plans to try and counter a large attacking force. He decided on a plan to fill the battlefield with an extensive smoke screen to allow a demi-battalion's worth of 'Mechs to hit the enemy under cover of the smoke.
On August 5th, the unhurried DropShips landed two BattleMech Regiments. Their 'Mechs, painted only in ghostly white, included some ancient designs last fielded by the Star League centuries ago.
The two forces met on the plains outside of Jasco City where the Eagles attempted to employ the smoke screen. The mysterious force's weaponry outranged their 'Mech weapons. Hokala ordered his LRM launchers to fire and fill the plains with smoke. However, the mysterious Combine 'Mechs, in an unprecedented display of precision, shot down the missiles. This left gaps in the smokescreen of the attacking demi-battalion and they were easily destroyed.
Within a half-hour the Screaming Eagles lost half their numbers. Colonel Hokala signaled the mysterious enemy that he was willing to surrender and withdraw. A Hatamoto-Chi BattleMech lifted its arm to signal a halt to hostilities. They allowed the Eagles to recover only their ejected MechWarriors, and destroyed any vehicle attempting to salvage equipment from the battlefield. Shortly after, the Eagles left the planet to what was later named the 9th and 10th Ghost Regiments.[14][4]
Misery[edit]
The 2nd Screaming Eagles regiment was assigned to Marshal Patrick Meldon's task force. They jumped off world of Glenmora to Elidere I. From there they jumped to Misery, where they just missed the Ryuken-roku departing the system for another assault. Before the 2nd Eagles' task force could move to take the planet they were told to put their invasion plans on hold. The ships of the task force remained in orbit of Misery for three weeks, until returning to their JumpShips and heading back to Glenmora.[15]
In Service of the Periphery and Chaos March[edit]
By 3053, the unit found itself in service of the Magistracy of Canopus with whom they signed a long-term defense contract. The unit was loaned out to its Trinity Alliance partner, House Liao, who deployed the Eagles to Chaos March to conduct unspecified tasks for the Alliance.
In 3062 while on Epsilon Eridani the 2nd Screaming Eagles were ambushed by Word of Blake's 1st Division. The Blakist attack shattered the regiment and forced them to retreat. They reached the Capellan world of Kaifeng where landing was refused. The 1st Screaming Eagles abandoned its garrison contract to meet with their near-destroyed comrades on Outreach. The Blakists then exposed a secret decade-long deal between the 2nd Eagles and House Davion to spy for them since 3055. The contract with Canopus was subsequently canceled based on the charge of spying for a foreign power. This forced them to return to the only realm that would accept them, House Davion.[16]
Return to the Federated Suns and on the Periphery Border[edit]
The unit, unable to rebuild itself, consolidated into a reinforced BattleMech Regiment and reinforced combined arms regiment of armored vehicles and infantry. The unit then entered the service of Duke James Sandoval of the Draconis March. The March Lord assigned the unit to garrison the Outworlds Alliance border world of Kilbourne. This prevented the unit's involvement in the FedCom Civil War.
Jihad[edit]
In October 3071, the Eagles received orders from Draconis March Intelligence Command, which ordered the unit to strike the Outworlds Alliance planet of Ramora in preemptive attack against Blakist forces. Leaving behind the unit's Fourth BattleMech Battalion and the 77th Armor to garrison Kilbourne they attacked.
The units on the strike mission used pirate points to slip by the planet's would-be Blakist defenders. The unit's executive officer, Lt. Colonel Chris Lewis, identified the defenders as Clan Snow Raven. Despite their fast entry, the world's protectors were waiting for them. A Trinary from the Sixth Raven Battle Cluster and the Outworlds Alliance Borderers moved to engage them in a battle. The Eagles won the day but suffered fifty percent casualties including their lead strategist, Lt. Colonel Lewis.
After salvaging Clan equipment the unit returned to base only to find the rest of the Sixth Raven Battle Cluster was striking back at them. The 77th Armor's artillery assets solely held back the angry Clanners and their Alliance airborne allies. Colonel Tam Lafayette's battered command managed to tip the balance of the battle and led to the destruction of the entire Snow Raven Cluster.
Shortly after the battle, Lafayette contacted the March's intelligence command to report what happened and discovered that command never ordered them to strike the Alliance at all. A false order from unknown parties possibly caused the Eagles to trigger the border war with the newly-arrived Clan.[17]
The Screaming Eagles had lost many of their BattleMechs, but to compensate for this they increased their conventional forces and began deploying battle armor troops. Even though they still need to rebuild nearly forty percent of their forces in 3079, this regiment is stationed on Kentwood as the cornerstone of the Federated Suns' defense against aggression from the Outworlds Alliance and their Clan Snow Raven partners.[18]
Officers[edit]
| Rank | Name | Command | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commanding Officers of the 250th BattleMech Division | |||
| Major General | Samuel Casteel | 2759-2764[19] | |
| Commanding Officers of the Screaming Eagles | |||
| Colonel | Walther Hokala | 3025[20] | |
| Colonel | Paul Hokola | 3050 - 3059[21][22] | |
| Colonel | Samuel "Buck" Layette | 3059[23] | |
| Colonel | Tam Lafayette | 3061 - 3071[24][17] | |
Tactics[edit]
3067[edit]
The unit practices the use of Combined Arms to better support their infantry and armor units. The unit employs Arrow IV on their aerospace fighter to devastate an enemy, after the main unit softens them up.[25]
Unit Colors & Insignia[edit]
The unit maintains its original Star League color scheme of Olive Green. The unit insignia is a diving eagle set on a blue and green background.
Dragoon Ratings[edit]
3067[edit]
Rated B-
3071[edit]
Rated C
Composition History[edit]
2750[edit]
250th BattleMech Division
2764[edit]
250th BattleMech Division
- The Second (conventional) Armored Cavalry RCT and an additional Infantry Brigade are attached along with two Mercenary BattleMech Battalions.[19]
2786 - 2821[edit]
Bald Eagles (Regiment/Veteran/Reliable)[26]
- Note: At this point in time the heavy-weight unit was stationed on Tawas. In 2821 the command was reduced to 30 percent of its strength and was deployed on Tedibyhr.[26]
Golden Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[26]
- Note: At this point in time the heavy-weight unit was stationed on Edwards. In 2821 the command was reduced to 38 percent of its strength and was deployed on Tedibyhr.[26]
Storm Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[26]
- Note: At this point in time the medium-weight unit was stationed on Waycross. In 2821 the command was reduced to 33 percent of its strength and was deployed on Robinson.[26]
Night Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[26]
- Note: At this point in time the light-weight unit was stationed on Logandale. In 2821 the command was reduced to 45 percent of its strength and was deployed on Robinson.[26]
Snow Eagles (Regiment/Veteran/Reliable)[26]
- Note: At this point in time the medium-weight unit was stationed on Goderich. In 2821 the command was reduced to 34 percent of its strength and was deployed on Robinson.[26]
2830[edit]
1st Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Veteran/Reliable)[27]
- Note: At this point in time the assault-weight unit was stationed on Demeter with an operational readiness of 100 percent.[27]
2nd Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[27]
- Note: At this point in time the assault-weight unit was stationed on Tedibyhr with an operational readiness of 100 percent.[27]
2864[edit]
1st Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[27]
- Note: At this point in time the heavy-weight unit was stationed on Elbar with an operational readiness of 17 percent.[27]
2nd Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Veteran/Fanatical)[27]
- Note: At this point in time the assault-weight unit was stationed on Elbar with an operational readiness of 70 percent.[27]
3025[edit]
Screaming Eagles (2 regiments/Regular/Reliable) - AFFS[20]
- CO: Colonel Walther Hokala[20]
- Note: At this point in time the unit was stationed on Skepptana. The unit additionally consisted of aerospace fighters, armor & infantry units.[30] The Eagles have no DropShips of their own, but do own a JumpShip.
3040[edit]
Screaming Eagles
- 1st Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[31]
- 2nd Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[31]
- Note: At this point in time the command was stationed on Sodertalje.[31]
3050[edit]
1st Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[21]
2nd Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[21]
- CO: Colonel Zarfina Warrick[21]
- Note: At this point in time the command was stationed on Sodertalje.[21]
3059[edit]
1st Regiment (Regiment/Regular/Reliable)[22]
- CO: Colonel Paul Hokola[22]
2nd Regiment (Regiment/Regular/Questionable)[22]
3067[edit]
Screaming Eagles (Reinforced BattleMech Regiment) - CO: Colonel Tam Lafayette
- 1st Battalion - CO & Unit XO: Lt. Colonel Chris Lewis
- 2nd Battalion CO: Major Alexander Cohen
- 3rd Battalion CO: Major Louis Chasteen
- 4th Battalion CO: Tu Faes D'Lihar
- All battalions mainly employ medium BattleMechs with only a mixed company of Heavy & Assault 'Mechs. Additionally, each Battalion has extra Battalion Command Lance & regiment's Regimental Command Lance of BattleMechs.
- 77th Heavy Armor (Reinforced Armor Regiment) - CO: Lt. Colonel Roger Durling
- By 3067, the Unit has folded its two parachute trained Infantry battalions into 77th Heavy. Each of the 77th's Battalions have a platoon of Battle Armor assigned to it. Also assign is a company of Mobile Artillery.
- Support: the unit now owns enough DropShip and JumpShip assets to be able transport the entire mercenary force.[32]
3071[edit]
Screaming Eagles (7 BattleMech Lances) - CO: Colonel Tam Lafayette
- 77th Heavy Armor (2 Combined Arms Battalions)
- Unit 'Mech forces consist of only a company's worth of OmniMechs salvaged from battle with the Snow Ravens' 6th Battle Cluster. The 77th Heavy Armor is now reduced to two battalions of operational equipment.[33]
3079[edit]
Screaming Eagles (Regiment/Veteran/Reliable)[34]
- Note: At this point in time the unit was stationed on Kentwood.[34] Though they were reduced to two thirds of their pre-Jihad strength in BattleMechs, the Screaming Eagles compensated for this by increasing the number of tanks and battle armor infantry units they could put in the field.[18]
Notes[edit]
- Unit components are only known though the Screaming Eagles' mercenary profiles. Along with 77th Heavy Armor regiment, a 53rd Battalion belonging to the Eagles' 2nd Brigade had survived to brigade was heavily damaged in mid thirty-first century. It is not clear which brigade the battalion belonged to.[35]
Game Rules[edit]
Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised[edit]
Using Force Specific Rules, the Eagles employ the following abilities for scenarios. They receive A Rated Equipment. The unit may employ bombers. If used, these attacking aerospace fighters allow all the Eagles to receive +3 to their initiative for the entire scenario.
If the aerospace fighters/bombers are not used in the scenario the Eagles can receive a +1 to their initiative if they are using combined arms formation consisting of more than one type unit. (Tanks, Infantry, etc.) Should the unit be defenders of the scenario they suffer from a -2 initiative.[36]
Mercenaries Supplemental Update[edit]
The unit still uses rules listed from Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised, however their Equipment Rating drops to C.[37]
References[edit]
- ↑ The Star League, p. 154: "Seventh Army" - Unit Listing between years of 2764 to 2784
- ↑ Mercenaries Supplemental Update, p. 105: "Two SLDF 250th Division's 555th and 556th Honor Guard Brigade form the Screaming Eagles"
- ↑ First Succession War, p. 33: "Those Left Behind"
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 Combat Manual: Mercenaries, p. 62
- ↑ Second Succession War, p. 24: "The Suns-Confederation Front"
- ↑ NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1, p. 13: Unit deployment prior to Operation Rat
- ↑ McCarron's Armored Cavalry, p. 10
- ↑ NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1, p. 19: First Wave - Assault of Pleione
- ↑ NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1, p. 32: Other Second Wave Actions - Brief info on the conquest of Gan Singh
- ↑ NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1, p. 34: New Canton - Jungles of Canton River
- ↑ 11.0 11.1 NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1, p. 35: New Canton - Blue Dragon pass
- ↑ Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised, p. 99: aftermath of Fourth Succession War, it was reported that the unit had been expelled from House Davion service
- ↑ Historical: War of 3039, pp. 54–55: First Wave / Elidere IV - Unit actions during invasion, including navigator sending the Eagles' JumpShip to wrong system
- ↑ Historical: War of 3039, pp. 106–107: The Eagles fight with Star League tech equipped 9th and 10th Ghost regiments, and their defeat
- ↑ Historical: War of 3039, p. 111: Misery & 2nd Screaming Eagles - 2nd Eagles' actions at Misery and recall
- ↑ Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised, p. 99: Unit actions in Chaos March for Trinity Alliance and exposed spying mission
- ↑ 17.0 17.1 Mercenaries Supplemental Update, p. 105: Screaming Eagle fluff up to 3071
- ↑ 18.0 18.1 Field Report: AFFS, p. 20
- ↑ 19.0 19.1 Field Manual: SLDF, p. 99: "250th BattleMech Division"
- ↑ 20.0 20.1 20.2 House Davion (The Federated Suns), p. 138: Commanding Officer of the unit listed
- ↑ 21.0 21.1 21.2 21.3 21.4 21.5 21.6 20 Year Update, p. 23
- ↑ 22.0 22.1 22.2 22.3 22.4 22.5 Field Manual: Mercenaries, p. 112
- ↑ Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised, p. 99: Unit commander start time and as of 3067
- ↑ Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised, p. 99: Unit commander information of 3067 and her weaknesses
- ↑ Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised, p. 99: Tactics as of 3067
- ↑ 26.0 26.1 26.2 26.3 26.4 26.5 26.6 26.7 26.8 26.9 First Succession War, p. 135
- ↑ 27.0 27.1 27.2 27.3 27.4 27.5 27.6 27.7 Second Succession War, p. 95
- ↑ NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1, p. 34: Disgraced 2nd Eagles' regimental commander named
- ↑ NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1, p. 35: 2nd Regiment under the top commander of the Eagles, Colonel Hokala
- ↑ House Davion (The Federated Suns), pp. 138, 150
- ↑ 31.0 31.1 31.2 31.3 Historical: War of 3039, p. 141
- ↑ Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised, p. 99: Unit details in 3067
- ↑ Mercenaries Supplemental Update, p. 105: Screaming Eagles - Unit status in 3071 from Merc Update book
- ↑ 34.0 34.1 Field Report: AFFS, p. 19
- ↑ Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised, p. 99
- ↑ Field Manual: Mercenaries, p. 135: Rules - Force Specific Rules for the Screaming Eagles
- ↑ Mercenaries Supplemental Update, p. 127: Equipment Rating in Rules section changes, but not abilities from Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised
Bibliography[edit]
- 20 Year Update
- Combat Manual: Mercenaries
- Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised
- Field Manual: SLDF
- Field Report: AFFS
- First Succession War
- Historical: War of 3039
- House Davion (The Federated Suns)
- Mercenaries Supplemental Update
- NAIS The Fourth Succession War Military Atlas Volume 1
- Objective Raids
- Second Succession War