The Battle For Socotra Radio Messages

FLASH! FLASH FLASH!
TO: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND

FROM: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA

DATE/TIME: 1216 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 18 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

Royal Navy flying boats have located a squadron of approximately forty transport ships escorted by ten warships 450 nautical miles east of Socotra. A low altitude flyby was fired upon by AA machine gun fire. Vessels identified as Imperial Tamil Navy. Course is 270 degrees, speed 10 knots. Under standing rules of engagement, task force deemed hostile and and I have ordered a strike by the 17 available 3 Fleet Air Arm Squadron Orcas. All UKA and Commonwealth forces advised that a state of war is presumed to exist between UKA/Commonwealth and the Tamil Empire.

Brig. Gen. M. Hickey - Cmdg Fortress Command Socotra

FLASH! FLASH! FLASH!
TO: ALL UKA/COMMONWEALTH FORCES
FROM: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND

DATE/TIME: 1344 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 18 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

WAR WARNING! A Tamil Empire naval task force fired upon UKA Royal Navy aircraft at approximately 1200 local time. As this is not deemed an accident, a state of war now exists. All Tamil Empire ground forces, aircraft and watercraft may be engaged without warning.

Air Chief Marshal M. Mossberger, CIGS

TO: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND FROM: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA

DATE/TIME: 2130 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 18 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

Seventeen Orca aircraft of 3 FAA Squadron attacked an Imperial Tamil Navy taskforce approimately 430 NM due east of Socotra starting at 1652 local time. The attack was pressed home with great gallantry at 200 meters altitude and three enemy vessels were damaged. Three Orcas were lost with all crew aboard, two more were damaged. No enemy ships were sunk and the task force remained on course at 7 knots until shadowing aircraft had to break off at sunset. One enemy warship was observed circling for twelve minutes, though whether due to battle damage or some other reason is undetermined.

AA fire was intense, though seemingly consisting of rifle caliber light machine guns only. The task force consisted of two Indra class monitors, and eight Shiva class frigates, escorting fifty-three transports of widely varying size.

Enemy vessels damaged: 1 Indra class monitor, two Shiva class frigates.

UKA casualties: 3 Orca I aircraft destroyed, 2 Orca I aircraft damaged, 9 KIA, 4 WIA

Enemy TF approximately 400 NM due east of Socotra at sunset. ETA at Socotra 2100 hrs local on 19 September

Brig. Gen. M. Hickey - Cmdg Fortress Command Socotra

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND

DATE/TIME: 0500 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 19 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

Imperial General Staff orders the following:

Garrison of Socotra to resist invasion attempt to utmost with available land and air forces.
No reinforcements available for Socotra for foreseeable future.
No other operations possible against the Tamil Empire at this time due to demands in the Med and Midwest.

Intel Summary:

Reasons for Tamil action unknown. Most likely is opportunistic and/or fear of threat to sphere of influence.
Major Tamil fleet units present in task force. Remaining Tamil warships are obsolete wooden gunboats.
Tamils may be getting support from Indonesia/Mongols/Japanese.

Good luck!

Air Chief Marshal M. Mossberger, CIGS

TO: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND FROM: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA

DATE/TIME: 0700 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 19 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: ROUTINE

No operations possible today. Gale force winds of 60 knots, and seas to 12 meters.

Brig. Gen. M. Hickey - Cmdg Fortress Command Socotra

TO: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND FROM: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA

DATE/TIME: 1900 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 20 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: ROUTINE

Weather for air search poor, with low ceiling and heavy rain. No sightings of enemy task force.

Brig. Gen. M. Hickey - Cmdg Fortress Command Socotra

TO: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND FROM: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA

DATE/TIME: 0748 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 21 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

Tamil Navy task force sighted at 0733 hrs local, bearing 87 degrees, range 165 NM, speed 7 knots, course 270 degrees.

Strike by 3 FAA ordered. 18 aircraft to depart at 0803 hrs.

Brig. Gen. M. Hickey - Cmdg Fortress Command Socotra

TO: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND FROM: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA

DATE/TIME: 1155 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 21 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

Eighteen Orca aircraft of 3 FAA Squadron attacked an Imperial Tamil Navy taskforce approimately 155 NM due east of Socotra starting at 0941 local time. A skip bombing attack on the enemy vessels was executed at minimum altitude. One Indra class monitor was sunk with five bomb hits. A Shiva class frigate was sunk with a single bomb hit. Two other Shiva class frigates were damaged. One Orca was lost with all crew aboard, one other were damaged. Enemy task force remained on course at spee dof 6 knots after attack. Survivors rescued by transports.

Enemy vessels damaged: 1 Indra class monitor sunk, one Shiva class frigate sunk, one Shiva class frigate damaged.

UKA casualties: 1 Orca I aircraft destroyed, 1 Orca I aircraft damaged, 3 KIA, 1 WIA

Enemy task force is currently being shadowed by Orca I aircraft.

Brig. Gen. M. Hickey - Cmdg Fortress Command Socotra

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND

DATE/TIME: 1600 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 21 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

General Hickey

Looking at the map my guess would be that they will land somewhere along the North shore. If I was the enemy commander I would prefer to land somewhere between Ghubbah and Hadiboh. This allows me to put pressure on the airfield as soon as possible, you want to negate that aircraft advantage. I don't think anywhere else is a real possibility, if you land at some other location you may be unopposed but the rough terrian provides a number of opportunities for the enemy to hamper your advance. What the Portland command needs to be watching for;

1. The enemy will break off their monitors and more modern warships on final approach and use these to shell the airfield in hopes of negating the plane advantage. These could also be used to hamper any movement of troops to the landing site(s). Is there a possibility of establishing emergency fields at another location?

2. Look out for a commando style raid on the airfield at night or early morning between now and landing. Is there an opportunity to build dummy planes as bait and hide the real ones? Keep the aircrews safe as well.

3. Look out for mulitiple landings.

4. Detach any local troops to Qaysoh and the south shore to monitor for landings there. There instructions should be to resist if possible and delay until reinforced.

5. Establish a lookout station on the highest peak. Have it equiped with all forms of communication, hard wire, wireless, flares, signal flags, etc. We must know how many landings and where as quickly as possible.

6. The South Africans are your best troops, deploy them at the most likely landing sites. The Nawqid Coast isn't one of them. Deploy the Georgia NG units in the least likely spots, but not heavily.

7. Pick one of the landing sites, as soon as you can tell where they are, and hit it hard with as much as possible. Be aware that they may be planning some fake landings as well in hopes of drawing off troop strenght.

8. Use the terrain as much as possible and make them come at you.

King Patrick, CinC UKA

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: HEADQUARTERS, ARMY GROUP C - SAVANNAH

DATE/TIME: 0200 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

General Hickey,

Redeploy your garrison as follows:

Detail a rifle company to protect the dumps and planes.
Assign the 229th, 1st Battalion to Qaysoh.
Build fortifications at Ra's Hulaf and position the 2nd SA Engineers there.
Position 15th HQ and Transvaal Light at Hadiboh as a mobile reserve.
Position 2nd Cape at Ras Karma Airfield as a mobile reserve.
Position 4th Natal at Qadub.
Position 229th HQ and 2nd battalion at Ghubbah as a mobile reserve.
Setup lookout stations at elevations 788, 1530, 631, 663 and 448.
Position 229th, 3rd Battalion at the sandy area of Nawqid.
Use skip bombing raids on the cargo ships.
My hit "them hard" plan should work anywhere but at Qaysoh and Nawqid.

King Patrick via Field Marshal Darryl Kilroy

TO: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND
FROM: HEADQUARTERS, ARMY GROUP C - SAVANNAH

DATE/TIME: 0341 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

Your Majesty:

Permission to fly to Socotra and take personal control of the defense, sir?

Field Marshal Darryl Kilroy, Commander, Army Group C

TO: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND
FROM: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
DATE/TIME: 0500 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: ROUTINE

No flying operations possible today. Winds of 30 knots, and seas to 4 meters.

Brig. Gen. M. Hickey - Cmdg Fortress Command Socotra

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: OBSERVATION POST ONE - HILL 631
DATE/TIME: 0605 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT FLASH! FLASH! FLASH!

**************SIGHTING REPORT*****************

Enemy surface task force sighted bearing 77 degrees true, range 21,000 yards.

Force consists of fifty-five (55) transports and six (6) Shiva class frigates

Sublieutenant Sean Wolf, RN

TO: OBSERVATION POST ONE - HILL 631
FROM: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
DATE/TIME: 0607 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

Mr. Wolf.

Clarify your sighting report.

Brig. Gen. M. Hickey - Cmdg Fortress Command Socotra

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA AND ALL UNITS ON OR NEAR SOCOTRA, NATIONAL WEATHER CENTER PORTLAND
FROM: MET OFFICER 3 FLEET AIR ARM SQUADRON - QADUB NAVAL AIR STATION
DATE/TIME: 0610 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: ROUTINE

Weather Conditions at Qadub - Socotra Island as of 0600 Local 22 September:
Wind 47 degrees true, speed 8 knots, Sea State 2 with seas to three feet, barometer rising.
Scattered cirrus clouds with a base at 8,000 meters.
Visibility approximately 50% due to fine dust blowing from the Arabian Peninsula.

Forecast for today: Conditions similar with wind falling to 6 knots by sunset.

Sublieutenant Betty Albaugh, RN

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: OBSERVATION POST ONE - HILL 631
DATE/TIME: 0611 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT FLASH! FLASH! FLASH!

**************SIGHTING REPORT*****************

Enemy surface task force sighted bearing 77 degrees true, range 21,000 yards. from crest of Hill 631.

Force consists of fifty-five (55) transports and six (6) Shiva class frigates

Four Shiva Class frigates proceeding at approximately eight (8) knots, course 290 degrees. Formation line astern. Remaining Shiva and transports in seven columns with Shiva leading. Speed seven (7) knots, course 290 degrees.trailing lead group by 5,000 yards.

ETA for presumed bombardment group at Hadiboh Harbor approimately 55 minutes.

Sublieutenant Sean Wolf, RN

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: 3 FLEET AIR ARM SQUADRON
DATE/TIME: 0613 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

General,

We launch a strike per standing orders at 0645 hrs with all available aircraft. Will press home attack at all costs and will divert to secondary landing site. Ground staff moving to defensive positions.

Lieutenant Henry Ferris, RN, Operations Officer 3 FAA

P>TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: OBSERVATION POST ONE - HILL 631
DATE/TIME: 0611 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT FLASH! FLASH! FLASH!

**************SIGHTING REPORT*****************

Enemy surface task force sighted bearing 77 degrees true, range 21,000 yards. from crest of Hill 631.

Force consists of fifty-five (55) transports and six (6) Shiva class frigates

Five Shiva Class frigates proceeding at approximately eight (8) knots, course 290 degrees. Formation line astern. Remaining Shiva and transports in seven columns with Shiva leading. Speed seven (7) knots, course 290 degrees.trailing lead group by 5,000 yards.

ETA for presumed bombardment group at Hadiboh Harbor approimately 55 minutes.

Sublieutenant Sean Wolf, RN

TO: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND
FROM: FORIEGN MININISTRY COMMUNICATIONS
DATE/TIME: 0700 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

At 0700 hrs Socotra time, Ambassador Kathir Abul-Fadl Nadr of Sultanate of Indonesia delivered the following document as a courtesy to the Empire of the Tamils who do not maintain diplomatic relations with the UKA:

Ministry of State of the Empire of the Tamils
New Mumbai
September 2, 2046 to be delivered at 7:00 a.m. Socotra Local Time on September 22, 2046.

To the King of the United Kingdom of America, Patrick:

Your military forces have intruded into the sphere of influence of the Tamil Empire, lands which have rightly belonged to the Tamil people since time immemorial. As there is no excuse for this perfidity, the military forces of the Tamil Empire have landed this morning upon Socotra Island to eject your interlopers. If you do not immediately order your forces to surrender unconditionally upon the island, the Empire of the Tamils cannot be held responsible for their fate, nor the fate of the civilians who currently unlawfully usurp the lands of the Tamil peoples there. As you have a justly revered reputation for good judgement and mercy, you must take the path of righteousness and order the surrender of your misguided people.

If your people do capitulate according to the demands of justice, the Tamil people will indemnify all civilians for loss of property when they are evicted. All UKA public property is forfeit as a fine for your usurpation of the rights of the Tamil people.

Show the mercy and good judgement that you are revered for! Preserve the lives of your gallant soldiers and civilians!

/s/ Puviyarasu
Emperor of the Tamil Peoples

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: OBSERVATION POST ONE - HILL 631
DATE/TIME: 0700 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT FLASH! FLASH! FLASH!

**************SIGHTING REPORT*****************

Enemy surface task force is commencing landing operations on the east side of Ra's Hulaf Point. Cargo vessels apear to number sixty-five (65) escorted by a single Shiva Class frigate. Landing operation in considerable disorder from air strike. One small enemy vessel sunk from severe explosion.

Sublieutenant Sean Wolf, RN

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: HADIBOH HARBOR MASTER
DATE/TIME: 0705 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT FLASH! FLASH! FLASH!

**************SIGHTING REPORT*****************

Enemy surface task force of six vessels is shelling Hadiboh Harbor facilities. All personnel taking cover.

Commander Rochy Speedie, RN

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA FROM: 3 SQUADRON FLEET AIR ARM

DATE/TIME: 0721 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

Nineteen Orca aircraft of 3 FAA Squadron attacked an Imperial Tamil Navy taskforce approimately 3 NM due east of Ra's Hulaf Point, starting at 0652 local time. A skip bombing attack on the enemy vessels was executed at minimum altitude. Light AA fire was intense. Six enemy vessels were damaged, one sunk. One Orca shot down, pilot ditched and captured by enemy.

Enemy vessel sunk was ammunition ship.

Enemy vessels damaged: one small cargo vessel exploded and sunk, 3 medium cargo vessels damaged, and 3 small cargo vessels damaged.

UKA casualties: 1 Orca I aircraft destroyed, 3 MIA, presumed POW

Lieutenant Henry Ferris, RN, Operations Officer 3 FAA

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: OBSERVATION POST ONE - HILL 631
DATE/TIME: 0731 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT FLASH! FLASH! FLASH!

**************SIGHTING REPORT*****************

Small and Medium cargo vessels have sunk off Ra's Hulaf. Survivors rescued by other vessels.

Sublieutenant Sean Wolf, RN

TO: HEADQUARTERS ARMY GROUP C
FROM: NATIONAL COMMAND AUTHORITY
DATE/TIME: 0731 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: ROUTINE

Permission for Marshal Kilroy to transfer his headquarters to Socotra Island denied. You have more important duties, like figuring out how to address this issue. Let Hickey do the job we trained her to do. What do you recommend? Can you put together a relief force?

Patrick, King of the UKA

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: HQ/II/2ND SOUTH AFRICAN ENGINEERS
DATE/TIME: 0732 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

**************CONTACT REPORT*****************

Enemy force of approximately three companies landing on east side of Ra's Hulaf Point, about 2,000 yards from our closest position. Enemy consists of light infantry and mortars. While targets are in range of my 81mm mortars, am holding fire to avoid counter battery fire from enemy warship. So far, nothing we can't handle, ma'am.

Lt. Col. Claas Boelhouwer, RSAA

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: OBSERVATION POST ONE - HILL 631
DATE/TIME: 0752 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT FLASH! FLASH! FLASH!

**************SIGHTING REPORT*****************

Medium cargo vessel has sunk off Ra's Hulaf. Survivors rescued by other vessels.

Sublieutenant Sean Wolf, RN

TO: UKA FOREIGN MINISTRY
FROM: NATIONAL COMMAND AUTHORITY
DATE/TIME: 0755 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

To Barbara Myers, Foreign Minister: Inform Emperor Puviyarasu that the political status of Socotra is clear. The UKA does not recognize spheres of influence but will honor and respect sovereign territory. We will not back down in the face of threats or intimidation. We wish to avoid war and will forgive this trespass if stopped immediately. Until then a state of war exists between the Empire of Tamil and the UKA. We will take appropriate actions given the situation. If there is a Tamil Embassy in Portland back it up and send it home. This goes for all official residents and property throughout the Commonwealth. Confiscate all Tamil property in the Commonwealth.

Patrick, King of the UKA

TO: IMPERIAL GENERAL STAFF AND MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL SECURITY
FROM: NATIONAL COMMAND AUTHORITY
DATE/TIME: 0759 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

To Air Cheif Marshal Michael Mossberger and Vice Admiral Booker T. Lincoln:

Order UKA units worldwide to strike at Tamil targets of opportunity no matter where they exist.

I want a full briefing on Tamil, its military, our options and official recommendations from impacted departments ASAP. In particular can we hit Tamil home territory?

Patrick, King of the UKA

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: OBSERVATION POST ONE - HILL 631
DATE/TIME: 0801 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT FLASH! FLASH! FLASH!

**************SIGHTING REPORT*****************

Small cargo vessel has sunk off Ra's Hulaf. Survivors rescued by other vessels.

Sublieutenant Sean Wolf, RN

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: OBSERVATION POST ONE - HILL 631
DATE/TIME: 0839 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT FLASH! FLASH! FLASH!

**************SIGHTING REPORT*****************

Medium cargo vessel has sunk off Ra's Hulaf. Survivors rescued by other vessels.

Sublieutenant Sean Wolf, RN

TO: HEADQUARTERS, III/229th N.G.
FROM: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
DATE/TIME: 0807 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

Lt. Colonel Donald P. Stump:

Transfer your battalion to Hadiboh as soon as humanly poissible and await further orders.

Brig. Gen. M. Hickey - Cmdg Fortress Command Socotra

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: HEADQUARTERS, III/229th N.G.
DATE/TIME: 0807 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

General:

The III/229th can do! ETA's are as follows:

Company D: 1200 hrs 23 September
Company A: 1400 hrs 23 September
Battalion HQ: 1500 hrs 23 September
Company B: 1100 hrs 24 September
Company C: 1500 hrs 24 September

Lt. Colonel Donald P. Stump- Cmdg IIIrd Battalion/229th N.G.

TRANSCRIPT OF SHORTWAVE RADIO CONVERSATION BETWEEN ADMIRAL JOHN UPSHUR, VICE ADMIRAL JOHN C. PRICE, AND MARSHAL DARRYL KILROY STARTING 0902 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

Kilroy: Reading me?

Upshur: Yes, sir.

Price: Yes, sir.

Kilroy: What can you give me for relieving Socotra, gentlemen?

Upshur: None of the heavies, sir. Let's face it, the Turks have a real navy, the Tamils don't. How about a light cruiser? With screen, of course, sir.

Kilroy: Not enough. Patrick is coming unglued about this, gentlemen. Can't we spare a carrier?

Upshur: Not with Martinique damaged, sir, and we need the battlewagons to counter the Turks, too.

Price: We have the Phoenix II, sir, at Gibralter, we could throw in the South Africa's group, too. They should be able to whip the Tamils silly.

Upshur: What kind of shape are they in? I've seen the reports, but . . .

Price: Not the best, but they can get a bit of an overhaul at the Cape, sir.

Kilroy: We need transports, enough for a brigade, at least.

Upshur: The APD group, they can make over twenty knots. They can only lift two battlions, anything else would have to follow later.

Kilroy: Works for me. Get on it, admiral.

Upshur: Yes, sir.

Kilroy: Good. Keep me posted, gentlemen. Kilroy out.

Upshur: John?

Price: Yes, sir?

Upshur: Fly your flag from the Phoenix. I want a navy man in charge of this op, and you'll have the clout to keep control.

Price: (A faint whine to his voice) Sirrr? (Sounding resigned) Yes, sir. I'll fly to Gibralter today.

Upshur: The sea air will do you some good, John. Hey, maybe you can whip the Tamils single handed. Show that Lincoln what a real blue-water sailorman can do.

Price: Yes, sir!

Upshur: Good luck! Upshur out.

TRANSMISSION ENDED 0090 SOCOTRA LOCAL

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: HQ/II/2ND SOUTH AFRICAN ENGINEERS
DATE/TIME: 0919 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

**************SITREP*****************

An additional enemy force of approximately three companies approaching east side of Ra's Hulaf Point, about 2,000 yards from our closest position. Enemy consists of light infantry and mortars. First enemy battalion digging in just beyond the end of the sand about 1,200 yards from out forward edge. Enemy landing operation appears somewhat disorganized. I'm having a few platoons digging weapons pits for 88mm guns.

Does anyone recall Gallipoli?

Lt. Col. Claas Boelhouwer, RSAA

TO: NATIONAL COMMAND CENTER - PORTLAND
FROM: THE INDONESIAN EMBASSY- PORTLAND
DATE/TIME: 0924 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

Dear Ambassador Kathir Abul-Fadl

Please transmit the following message to the government of the Tamil Empire: Ministry of State of the Empire of the Tamils
Portland, Northern Oregon
September 22, 2046 to be delivered to the Tamil government as soon as possible.

To: Puviyarasu, Emperor of the Tamil Peoples:

The political status of Socotra is clear. It belongs to the UKA by right of conquest from the Mongol Empire's Middle Eastern Sultanate. We do not recognize any legitimate claim by the Tamil Empire to the island, nor any spheres of influence claimed by the Tamil government. We will not back down in the face of threats or intimidation. We wish to avoid war and will forgive this trespass if stopped immediately. Until then a state of war exists between the Empire of the Tamils and the UKA. We will take appropriate actions given the situation.

The UKA's forces on the island will resist any attempt by a foriegn power to occupy our soveriegn territory.

Barbara Myers
Foriegn Minister of the United Kingdom of America

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA AND ALL UNITS ON OR NEAR SOCOTRA, NATIONAL WEATHER CENTER PORTLAND
FROM: MET OFFICER 3 FLEET AIR ARM SQUADRON - QADUB NAVAL AIR STATION
DATE/TIME: 0933 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: ROUTINE

Forecast for the Next Three Days

Weather Conditions at Qadub - Socotra Island as of 0600 Local 23 September:
Wind 47 degrees true, speed to 25 knots, Sea State 5 with seas to 16 feet, barometer falling.
Scattered cirrus clouds with a base at 8,000 meters.
Visibility approximately 50% due to fine dust blowing from the Arabian Peninsula.

Weather Conditions at Qadub - Socotra Island as of 0600 Local 24 September:
Wind 47 degrees true, speed to 38 knots, Sea State 5 with seas to 16 feet, barometer falling.
Scattered cirrus clouds with a base at 8,000 meters.
Visibility approximately 25% due to fine dust blowing from the Arabian Peninsula.

Weather Conditions at Qadub - Socotra Island as of 0600 Local 25 September:
Wind 42 degrees true, speed to 25 knots, Sea State 5 with seas to 16 feet, barometer falling.
Scattered cirrus clouds with a base at 8,000 meters.
Visibility approximately 50% due to fine dust blowing from the Arabian Peninsula.

Sublieutenant Betty Albaugh, RN

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: HADIBOH HARBOR MASTER
DATE/TIME: 0941 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

**************SITREP*****************

Enemy surface task force of four vessels has stood off from shelling Hadiboh Harbor facilities. Freezer plan and water tower inoperative with severe damage. Baracks #1 and Ammunition Bunker #2 suffered light damage.

Casualties:

Officers Wounded: 1
Enlisted Men Killed: 1
Enlisted men wounded: 17

Commander Rochy Speedie, RN

TO: ALL UNITS OF THE FORTRESS SOCOTRA
FROM: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
DATE/TIME: 0938 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: OPERATIONAL URGENT

Redeply as follows. Movements to commence immediately.

Company A/I/229th to remain at Qaysoh, the remainder of I/229th to Ghubbah.
Transvaal Light and Brigade mortars to proceed to Ra's Hulaf. Colonel Erik Van Voorst of the 15th will take operational command at the beachhead.
2nd Cape Infantry to Hadiboh.
229th HQ to Ras Karma.
Two Companies of the II/229th to Qadub and two companies to Ras Karma.
4th Natal Infantry to Ra's Hulaf.

Brig. Gen. M. Hickey - Cmdg Fortress Command Socotra

Minutes of Cabinet Meeting at the Royal Palace, Portland - 0952 hrs 22 September 2046 Socotra Local Time
Present:
King Patrick
Prime Minister the Duchess Julie of Nicaragua
Chief of the Imperial General Staff Air Chief Marshal Michael K. Mossberger
Foreign Minister Barbara Myers
Under Secretary Wendell E. Freed, Ministry of External Security (For B.T. Lincoln)

Transcript:

King Patrick: Going to war against the Tamils is a bad idea. They are too large and we are too spread out. Perhaps we should make some peace overtures that would include a phased turnover of Socotra during the next six months. We also need to make plans to deal with the local population. Let me know your thoughts. Do not communicate this to the military or the garrison on Socotra, keep it to the very highest levels only. I can't imagine that the Tamils are friendly toward the Mongols so this might not be a bad strategy. Can't win them all. Ideas, ladies and gentlemen?

Under Secretary Wendell E. Freed, Ministry of External Security (For B.T. Lincoln): (Looking a little nervous) Um . . . as junior person present I guess it is my place to open this talk. (Glancing around the table) Minister Lincoln asked me to brief you on the strategic aspects of the Tamil situation since he can't get away from Alexandria at the moment.

The Tamils are numerous, have a very powerful land army, and seemingly boundless ambition. What they don't have in this particular situation is:

Any legitimate claim to Socotra, either current or historical.
A navy worth a bucket of warm spit. We've already inflicted severe losses on their best ships with a single squadron of elderly flying boats.
An air force that could compete with ours on any level.
Any reliable allies in India or anywhere else. (Points to the Empire of Andhra on the northeast border of the Tamil Empire) Andhra and the Kingdom of Lanka on Ceylon have a long history of fighting the Tamils at the drop of a hat. The Tamils have occupied a large chunk of the coast of Ceylon about thirty years ago, and the Lanka rulers have never forgiven them that. Andhra has lost large chunks of valuable borderlands as well. (Points to the Empire of Karnataka on the northwestern frontier of the Tamil Empire) Karnataka is the pivot power in the area. It has allied with either side as it has seen fit to take advantage. In any case, none of these powers have a modern navy or air force and the Tamils are vulnerable to our projection of sea power as they are the only Indian power with substantial overseas possessions, namely their enclave on Ceylon.

It is the External Intelligence analysts' opinion, therefore, that the Tamils have tried this adventure in the hope that we are too tied up to with the Turks to deal with them before they can consolidate their hold on the island. It is clear they wanted to try this before we had an operational airfield on the island, since even a single squadron of Terns would have made this attempt suicidal.

So far, the Mongols seem totally impotent in the area.

(Sits back down and glances at Mossberger)

Chief of the Imperial General Staff Air Chief Marshal Michael K. Mossberger: Sire, having queried the chiefs of staff on this issue, they are agreed that the Tamils have little chance to take Socotra, and that if they fail, even a limited extension of our naval power into their home waters, such as a few subs, would prove to be enough to keep them pinned at home and unable to make a second attempt.

As far as the retention of Socotra goes, the Royal Army would prefer to dump the island. Since there is little hope that you will authorize a further expansion of the army to provide a divisional-sized garrison, and due to the needs generated by the fighting in the Midwest. The Royal Air Force is indifferent to the who issue, since there is little chance that the RAF will be called on to provide anything but radar and ground control facilities, if the navy doesn't. The Royal Navy, however, is adamant that the island remain under our control, since it would give us permanent control of the waters in the area and keep the Mongols from expanding into Africa via the sea. The Royal Navy is totally opposed to giving up the islands, and will provide any necessary garrison out of its own resources if that is required. The navy would like to permanently station a small squadron on the island in addition to the MTB squadron already designated, possibly a Prime Minister Class light cruiser and escorts, as well as a mixed air group.

Minister Myers?

Foreign Minister Barbara Myers: Your majesty, despite my ministry's concern about expanding the responsibilities of the empire at this time, we must request that we do not give up the island for three reasons.

The perception of weakness that it would give to those states facing our more remote possessions, such as Japan and Indonesia. If one act of aggression is successful, then more will follow.

The South Africans will be highly insulted. We talked them into providing much of the garrison on the grounds that holding the islands would go along way toward their securing the coastal trade of East Africa and enhance their security against the Mongols.

Socotra was recognized as a Class II Commonwealth state. If they are left in the lurch, what about Czarist France or even Hermiston? It's a terrible precedent, sire.

As far as the diplomatic situation goes, we have little influence with any of the states involved, and no diplomatic missions in India at all. If we need to, we could probably engineer an alliance against the Tamils with its neighbors, but whether such as war would in our interest unless they prove to be intractable is dubious at best.

My ministry recommends making peace with them on the grounds of the status quo ante. We don't want to reward them for their aggression, but I doubt we can punish them for it either, save for their military casualties. Trying to find a face saving out for them might prove difficult, though. They are a proud and arrogant bunch.

Madam Prime Minister?

Prime Minister Duchess Julie of Nicaragua:

(Rising, a friendly glance at Freed, addresses the King)

Your Majesty,

(Addressing the other members)

Fellow Cabinet members, It is not in the best interest of this Commonwealth to continue to engage in actions that lead to war. Our long-standing conflicts with the Midwestern despots, in whatever form they decide to take, should take precedence in our military-industrial efforts. However, I cannot begin to imagine the long-term issues that would be generated by placating states that only respect force. At this time we do not have the logistical means to destroy the Tamil Empire outright, however, if they are intent on taking Socotra, let them attempt it. Given that we are dealing with the defense of a Class II Commonwealth state, we should make all efforts possible to protect Socotra, its populace and our base(s).

(Glancing at and then referencing with open palmed hand, Marshal Mossberger)

Based on Marshal Mossberger's assertion the Tamil's don't have much chance of success, it may be in our interest to contemplate duping the Tamil's into a false sense of superiority, which shouldn't be that hard, and set a ambush for the invasion force. The image of a Tamil invasion force and all of its equipment be sent to the bottom is very appealing.

(Addressing the other members)

Destroying the Tamil's logistical supply fleet and/or herding them into marshalling areas for invasion/extermination should be the priority of our Naval units in the area. If there is a reason for our submarines to exist, this is one of them. Defense of the area, and the defeat of the belligerents in the area should be our near-term goal. Destruction of their more "modern" shipbuilding facilities should be contemplated, though this would potentially enlarge the conflict.

The considerations and actions of this Commonwealth with regard to Socotra should be:

Defend and Hold the island.
Remove the Tamil's supply line
Remove the Tamil's seaborne ability the extract their forces from Socotra and the surrounding area.
"Remove" the out-of-supply Tamil forces remaining on the island, however ruthlessly this needs to be done, to demonstrate to the Tamil's satisfaction that we will not tolerate any interdiction into the Commonwealth.
Continue a policy of active removal of any and all seaborne transport that the Tamils introduce, or intend to introduce into the area.
Politically demonstrate that we will defend our friends, not placate enemies, and intend and expect peaceful interaction with neighboring states.

These considerations are arguably, grandiose, and bordering on Pharoah-like edicts, but we must consider what we are attempting to do. We are actively granting Commonwealth status to far-flung areas of the world. We must consider any attempt against a Commonwealth state to be an intolerable aggression against our Kingdom. We should also very carefully weigh granting Commonwealth status of areas of the world with what our does to the "surface-area" of the Kingdom. We must avoid setting ourselves up for logistical nightmares, lest we find ourselves in the same position of the ancient Romans, too much border and not enough money or military to defend it.

We must concentrate on getting the North-American continent situation under control..

Thank you.

(Yield's the floor, sits down)

Chief of the Imperial General Staff Air Chief Marshal Michael K. Mossberger: If I may, sire?

I should comment upon the duchess� military proposals. Certainly, they are all within our capabilities. We cannot deal with the bastards on land on the subcontinent; we simply don�t have any spare manpower. A sea raiding strategy aimed at their shipping, though, will end any serious threat to us. If we can hold the island for fifteen days, and I don�t doubt we can, we will have the Phoenix II and the light cruiser South Africa there. Several more South African battalions will follow them a few days later

Our submarine force is all deployed in the Pacific, but a squadron certainly can be sent. Eventually, a carrier group should be sent.

We MUST end this Turkish crisis ASAP to free up resources, sire, if we are to pursue this thing to a conclusion if the bastards won�t negotiate. I don�t think the land war in the Midwest will influence this situation at all, other than the consumption of fuel supplies. Aviation fuel stocks, in particular, are low, as a result of the Danube fiasco, but the size of the Indian Ocean forces is very small.

If the Mongols remain quiescent then I think we are fine. So far, we have an armistice with them and the Turks, but we need a more stable situation in Europe.

(He nods to all and sits.)

Foreign Minister Barbara Myers: The Turkish situation is close to resolution. Admiral Lincoln assures me that the Turks are likely accept the king�s latest proposal. At that point we can transfer at least part of the Atlantic Fleet to deal with the Tamils, is that not so, Air Marshal? (Mossberger nods in agreement)

Under Secretary Wendell E. Freed, Ministry of External Security (For B.T. Lincoln): Yes, and I don�t think the Turks will break the peace, at least for a year or two. By all our reports, they need time to consolidate their gains of this spring. If it wasn�t for our own (he flicks a quick glance at the king with a gulp of nervousness) impetuousness of trying to hijack the Yavuz, the war wouldn�t have happened.

King Patrick: Give me a few hours to digest the recommendations presented here and review the available intelligence information. I will give you my opinion then. Thank you for your honest and frank opinions, it isn't always easy for you to tell me things I may not want to hear but they must be said.

TO: HQ/II/2ND SOUTH AFRICAN ENGINEERS
FROM: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
DATE/TIME: 0955 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

Colonel,

Let the bastards beat their heads against our defenses for awhile. I want to repulse a major attack and then immediately throw everything we have available in the area into a counter attack. Are the enemy naval units a problem for a counterattack?

Brig. Gen. M. Hickey - Cmdg Fortress Command Socotra

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: HQ/II/2ND SOUTH AFRICAN ENGINEERS
DATE/TIME: 1001 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: OPERATIONAL URGENT

The enemy frigates have opened fire on our position. We are taking cover.

Lt. Col. Claas Boelhouwer, RSAA

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: HQ/II/2ND SOUTH AFRICAN ENGINEERS
DATE/TIME: 1011 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: URGENT

General,

Yes, ma'am. If they try a frontal assault on our position, we will slaughter them. Our position cannot be outflanked, we have 360 degree defenses. I am concerned with the ships' firepower, though. They have begun shelling our position. Their guns are small, about 75mm in size, and don't pose much of a threat to our bunkers, though I have been forced to suspend working on the weapons pits for the 88's. I would prefer them to be suppressed, though if we have to advance. I would respectfully advise that we hold off on counterattacking until those ships are driven off.

Lt. Col. Claas Boelhouwer, RSAA

TO: FORTRESS COMMAND SOCOTRA
FROM: HQ/II/2ND SOUTH AFRICAN ENGINEERS
DATE/TIME: 1143 HRS SOCOTRA LOCAL, 22 SEPTEMBER 2046

PRIORITY: OPERATIONAL URGENT

General,

The enemy vessels have discontinued their bombardment. Companies A and C have suffered some casualties, but their combat effectiveness hasn't been hampered.

The enemy continue to unload troops at the beachhead and are still trying to work around our left. Their progress is very slow.

No evidence that they are preparing to assault our possition.

Colonel Van Voorst has sent a runner informing me that he is now taking operational control of the beachhead.

Lt. Col. Claas Boelhouwer, RSAA

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