The Brazilian Expeditionary Force in Bolt Action: Fighting Alongside the Allies

Introduction

A Call to Arms

The rumble of distant artillery, the crackle of automatic weapons, and the smell of acrid gunpowder – these were the harsh realities faced by soldiers on the Italian front during World War II. Amidst the carnage, far from their homeland, fought a force often overlooked: the Brazilian Expeditionary Force, or FEB. From the lush coffee plantations of Brazil, these men embarked on a perilous journey to the battlefields of Europe, answering the call to fight alongside the Allies against the Axis powers. The story of the FEB is one of courage, sacrifice, and a remarkable contribution to the Allied victory, a story waiting to be relived on the tabletop.

Setting the Scene

This article delves into the world of the FEB, not through historical textbooks alone, but through the lens of *Bolt Action*, the popular World War II tabletop wargame. We’ll explore the historical context of the FEB, from its formation to its key engagements in Italy. More importantly, we’ll examine how you can build and command this unique force within *Bolt Action*, utilizing historical accuracy while ensuring a fun and challenging gameplay experience. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to field your own Brazilian force, honoring their bravery and contributing to the vibrant history of the tabletop.

From Coffee to Combat: The Brazilian Expeditionary Force in World War II

The Road to War

The seeds of Brazil’s involvement in World War II were sown not in the heart of Europe, but in the complex geopolitical landscape of the 1940s. Initially, Brazil sought to maintain neutrality, but the realities of global conflict slowly drew it in. The United States, eager to secure a strategic foothold in the Americas, exerted significant pressure. Brazil, heavily reliant on its trade with the US, found itself increasingly aligned with the Allied cause. The sinking of Brazilian merchant ships by German U-boats further fueled public sentiment and solidified the decision to enter the war.

Formation and Training

Following the declaration of war, Brazil began to organize and train its forces. The Brazilian Expeditionary Force (FEB) was formed, consisting primarily of infantry units, but also including artillery, engineers, and support elements. The FEB, initially underprepared, received extensive training and logistical support from the United States. This partnership, built upon the bedrock of Allied unity, was key to equipping the FEB for the rigors of war. American equipment, from rifles and machine guns to tanks and trucks, became essential for equipping the Brazilian troops.

The Italian Campaign

The FEB was deployed to Italy, joining the Allied forces in a grueling campaign against the German Wehrmacht. Their primary area of operations was in the mountainous terrain of the Apennines, where the war was marked by brutal fighting and difficult conditions. The FEB faced significant challenges, including harsh weather, rugged terrain, and the tenacious resistance of German troops, who were well-entrenched in defensive positions.

Battles and Bravery

Among their most famous battles was the fight for Monte Castello, a strategic mountain peak that dominated the surrounding area. The FEB, after a long and arduous campaign, finally managed to dislodge the German forces after multiple bloody assaults. The capture of Monte Castello was a pivotal moment for the FEB, showcasing their determination and bravery in the face of overwhelming odds. Another key engagement was the battle of Montese, where the FEB fought fiercely to secure another crucial position, marking the beginning of the end for the German forces in Italy.

Sacrifice and Legacy

Despite the challenges, the FEB distinguished itself with its courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the Allied cause. Their efforts were pivotal in breaking German defenses, advancing the Allied line, and contributing to the liberation of Italy. The FEB also played an important role in disrupting German supply lines and harassing their rear areas. Their impact was felt not only on the battlefield but also in their efforts to protect the local populace. The sacrifices of the FEB were considerable, with many brave Brazilians killed, wounded, or captured. Their contributions, however, were significant. The FEB earned the respect of its Allied comrades and the admiration of the Italian people.

Building Your FEB Force in Bolt Action

Assembling the Force

Bringing the FEB to life on the *Bolt Action* tabletop requires a few steps, starting with understanding the army selector. The goal is to faithfully recreate the units and capabilities of the Brazilian Expeditionary Force within the constraints of the game’s rules.

Choosing the Right List

The first step is selecting the appropriate army list. Several lists may work well, dependent on the specific battles being re-created. Options may include Allied or American lists, with careful selection of units and the addition of the “Brazil” national rule, which provides a thematic identity to the force.

Selecting Units

Once the army list is selected, choosing units becomes the priority. The FEB, as a primarily infantry-based force, relied heavily on its infantry sections. These infantry sections, often composed of American-trained soldiers, formed the backbone of the FEB’s fighting capabilities. They might be equipped with a mix of American-supplied equipment, including M1 Garand rifles, Browning Automatic Rifles (BARs), and Thompson submachine guns. This provides a versatile squad that’s capable of handling different combat scenarios. Consider the different unit types. Veteran infantry sections could represent units that fought in the most intense battles, showing their battle-hardened skills and their experience.

Support Options

Machine gun teams were crucial for providing suppressive fire, helping to pin down the enemy and breaking their advance. These teams were normally equipped with the American M1919 Browning machine gun. Mortar teams would provide indirect fire support, able to hit enemy positions behind cover. Anti-tank weapons are vital in any WWII force, the FEB had limited access to these early in the campaign, later on they had options.

Vehicle and Weapon Choices

Beyond the basic infantry, the FEB employed a variety of support weapons. Flame-throwers provided a terrifying close-range assault weapon. Howitzers and field guns added artillery support, allowing for long-range bombardments to soften enemy positions. The FEB also utilized armored vehicles. American lend-lease Sherman tanks could be used to represent the armored support given to the FEB during the Italian campaign. Trucks and other vehicles were essential for transport and resupply.

National and Special Rules

Finally, special rules and national rules will define the force and gameplay style. A good choice may be adding the special rule “Tough Fighters,” reflecting their bravery and the harsh combat environment. Another option is the inclusion of the “US Lend-Lease” rule, representing the crucial support from the United States. These rules will help to model the spirit and combat capabilities of the FEB.

Painting and Basing Your Brazilian Force

Uniforms and Camouflage

The visual representation of your FEB force is a significant part of bringing the miniatures to life and contributing to the historical feel of the game. This is where research and attention to detail are paramount. The uniforms of the FEB were a mix of American and Brazilian influences. Typically, they wore the standard American olive drab (OD) uniforms, similar to those used by the US Army. Researching historical photos will reveal the exact variations in uniforms. It’s important to study the uniforms of the Brazilian Expeditionary Force to replicate it on the tabletop.

Creating the Base

Basing your miniatures adds another layer of detail. The Italian terrain offers a variety of possibilities. Consider basing your miniatures on rocky terrain, olive groves, or even urban settings to reflect the diverse environments where the FEB fought. Use textured basing materials, such as sand, small rocks, and static grass to create the desired look and feel.

Tactical Considerations and Force Composition

Tactics and Strategies

The FEB’s tactical doctrine in Italy focused on a combination of aggressive assaults, defensive positions, and combined arms tactics. In *Bolt Action*, this translates to a gameplay style that balances attacking and defending, with an emphasis on utilizing infantry strength and tactical support.

Building an Army

When fielding the FEB, remember to use your strengths. Consider building a balanced force. A common list could focus on infantry supported by machine guns and mortars, combined with tanks for mobility and firepower. A less complex force might have more units, as the Brazilians often outnumbered the German units they faced.

Ideas for Bolt Action Scenarios

Recreating the Battles

The Italian campaign provides plenty of opportunities for recreating historical battles. Here are some scenario ideas: One scenario could recreate the battle of Monte Castello. The objectives might be to capture and hold the high ground, represented by the strategic hill. The attackers (the FEB) would need to overcome strong German defenses, while the Germans would attempt to defend their positions using bunkers, barbed wire, and heavy weapons.

Urban Warfare

Another scenario could recreate the battle of Montese. The FEB would have to seize the strategic town from a German force. This scenario would emphasize urban warfare and close-quarters combat. The attacker could use the advantage of numbers while the defender uses buildings and careful positioning to keep the FEB at bay. When designing your own scenarios, consider the specific objectives of the battles and the terrain. Use the *Bolt Action* rules to reflect the historical conditions and challenges faced by the FEB.

Expanding Your FEB Force

Allied Support

Adding to your FEB force can be a fun and rewarding process. To add to the realism of your force, consider including Allied units such as American artillery to support the FEB’s infantry. Italian partisan units might also be incorporated into scenarios. This will not only increase the army’s versatility but also enhance the historical accuracy of the game. Consider expanding your force with new units to enhance gameplay.

Conclusion

Honoring the Heroes

The Brazilian Expeditionary Force fought with courage, determination, and a remarkable commitment to the Allied cause. Bringing this remarkable unit to the *Bolt Action* table is a rewarding experience. By carefully selecting units, adopting historical tactics, and honoring their bravery, you can bring the spirit of the FEB to life. Remember to research the FEB’s battles and contributions, and create unique scenarios. Fielding your own Brazilian force in *Bolt Action* is a way to honor their courage and to keep their story alive.