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First Eagles - WWI and Early Years - Missions and Campaigns

50 files

  1. Richthofen's Final Two Victories

    A mission for First Eagles + Expansion Pack 1 + Nov 08 patch.
     
    UPDATED 22/11/08: This mission has been amended to include the excellent authentic Jasta
    11 colour schemes created by Quack74 (See 'Mission requirements' below).
     
    Bucky's Quick Mission No.7: 'Richthofen's Final Two Victories'.
     
    Released 20/4/08. The 90th anniversary of the action depicted in this mission.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Introduction:
     
    There is no question that Manfred Von Richthofen is THE most famous fighter pilot of all time.
    In fact, there's a strong case for saying he's the best known soldier of any war in history, let
    alone WW1. He's been, (and will continue to be) the subject of countless books, journalistic
    articles and TV documentaries. Indeed, at the time of writing, a new movie; 'The Red Baron',
    has just been released in Germany. The lasting interest and fascination with all aspects of his
    short life is truly extraordinary.
     
    I created this mission, a re-enactment of an actual aerial combat that took place at
    approximately 18:40, on Saturday, 20th April, 1918, to commemorate the 90th anniversary
    of Richthofen's death.
     
    Flying his famous red Fokker Dr.I Triplane, serial number 425/17, this was to be the Baron's
    penultimate patrol and air combat, during which he achieved his 79th and 80th victories.
     
    This is how Richthofen described the action in his combat report:
     
    "With six planes of Jasta 11, I attacked large enemy squadron. During the fight I observed
    that a Triplane was attacked and shot at from below by a Camel. I put myself behind the
    adversary and brought him down, burning, with only a few shots. The enemy plane crashed
    down near the forest of Hamel where it burned on the ground.
    Three minutes after I had brought down the first machine, I attacked a second Camel of the
    same enemy squadron. The adversary dived, caught his machine and repeated the
    manoeuvre several times. I approached him as near as possible when fighting and fired 50
    bullets until the machine began to burn. The body of the machine was burned in the air, the
    remnants dashed to the ground, north-east of Villers Bretonneux."
     
    His unfortunate victims that day were; Major Richard Raymond-Barker, who was killed, and
    2nd Lt David Greswolde Lewis, who amazingly survived the crash of his burning Camel, and
    was taken prisoner.
     
    Less than 24 hours after this combat, Richthofen was dead. Killed by a single .303 bullet (but
    that's another long story!). He was just 25 years old.
     
    ============================================================
     
    To set the scene:
     
    At this time Jasta 11 were based at Cappy airfield, about 20 miles east of Amiens. Richthofen
    was experiencing a lean period (mainly due to bad weather), having gained no victories
    between 7th-19th April...the weather during that day had been very cloudy, but by the early
    evening it was generally clear, allowing the Rittmeister and five other pilots of Jasta 11 to
    set off for the early evening patrol.
    Airborne at about the same time, and equally keen for a fight were the Sopwith Camels of
    3 sqn, RAF...
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission guidlines:
     
    When the mission starts you'll be at a little over 6,000 ft (1500m). Initially, you should keep
    to a heading of around 250 degrees, flying south-west. Keep formation with your five
    wingmen. Looking below and to your right, you'll see the winding Somme river as you pass
    over Cerisy, heading toward Villers Bretonneux. To your left you'll see the old Roman road
    that stretches from Amiens to St Quentin. Perfect navigational aids should you become
    disorientated.
     
    Richthofen shot down the two Camels within three minutes of eachother. Indeed, the two
    machines crashed to earth just 50 yards apart. Maybe you can do better?
     
    ============================================================
     
    Compromises and game limitations:
     
    1. During the spring of 1918 the German offensive had pushed the allies back much further
    than the actual front line depicted in the game. Also, the Flanders map is very sparsely
    populated around the Villers Bretonneux area where this combat actually took place.
    However, although some towns and villages are missing, The action happens in the correct
    general area.
     
    2. FE won't allow multiple 'named wingmen' in the players flight. This means the game will
    recognise only the players plane. consequently, there will be no record of your wingmen's
    actions in the 'stats' screen at end of mission. It also means you can't issue orders via the
    'tab' button.
    The good news is; this doesn't stop your wingmen from participating in the action.
     
    3. Manfred's brother Lothar, (40 victories) was not involved in the action depicted in this
    mission. He was still in hospital and extremely lucky to still be alive after being shot down in
    his yellow and red Fokker Triplane on 13th March. It's a nice Jasta 11colour scheme which is
    included with the expansion pack, so I've used it anyway...We'll assume that he had another
    Dr.I painted the same way, and that another pilot was using it on 20th April!
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission requirements:
     
    To fly this mission as intended, you'll need the following mods and skins:
     
    Flanders terrain.
    By Edward.
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'Maps/Terrains' section.
     
    The following Jasta 11 Fokker Dr.I skins:
    All created by Quack74.
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'Skins', 'WW1', section.
    MvR Last plane.
    J11 Blue Tail.
    Richard Wenzl.
    Werner Steinhauser.
    Edgar Scholtz.
     
    Many thanks to the above artists for their most excellent contributions to this great game.
     
     
    Although not essential, for extra realism and immersion I would recommend the following
    mods, available from the Combat Ace, Downloads site:
     
    'Thicker, Fuller Clouds'.
    By ShrikeHawk.
    Found in: 'Maps/Terrains'. 'Environmental Mods'.
    Excellent mod that greatly improves the "cotton wool ball" clouds effect.
     
    'FE Sounds'.
    By yours truly.
    Found in: 'Sound Mods'.
    I've updated this mod with a louder "bullet hit" sample, designed to make you jump when
    your plane gets hit!
     
    For maximum realism I would also recommend that this mission be played with all gameplay
    settings set to 'Hard'.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Installation instructions:
     
    Install the mission by unzipping the downloaded file to the following path:
    C:/Program Files/Thirdwire/WW1/Missions
     
    Alternatively, you can drag and drop the unzipped MSN file directly into your 'Missions' folder.
     
    ============================================================
     
    I hope you enjoy flying this mission and find it both challenging and enjoyable enough to play
    it more than once. I've tried to make it as historically accurate and authentic as the game will
    allow.
    Feel free to change any of the parameters as you wish.
     
    I would welcome any suggestions or general feedback, good, bad or indifferent, via any one
    of the FE forums.
     
    Viel Glueck!
     
    Bucky. 20/4/08.
     
    ============================================================
     
    References used in creating this mission:
     
    'The Jasta War Chronology'... N. Franks. F. Bailey & R. Duiven.
    'Under The Guns Of The Red Baron'... N. Franks & H. Giblin.
    'In The Footsteps Of The Red Baron'... M. O'Connor & N. Franks.
    'Above The Lines'... N. Franks. F.W. Bailey & R. Guest.
    'The Red Baron. Beyond The Legend'...P Kilduff.
    'The Red Baron Combat Wing'...P.Kilduff.
    'Richthofen'...A.E. Ferko.
    'Von Richthofen's Flying Circus'...G. Van Wyngarden.
    'Sopwith Camel Squadrons'...L.A. Rogers.
     
    ============================================================
    ============================================================

    386 downloads

       (2 reviews)

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  2. 'Woollett's Six In A Day!' Parts 1 & 2

    A mission For First Eagles + Expansion Pack 1 + Nov 08 patch.
     
    Bucky's Quick Mission No.8: 'Woollett's six in a day!' Parts 1 & 2.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Introduction:
     
    These missions are a re-enactment of two aerial combats that took place in the skies above
    La Gorgue, 15 miles west of Lille, at approximately 10:30am and 5:00pm on Friday, 12th
    April, 1918. The combatants were 43 Sqn's C Flight, led by Captain Henry Winslow Woollett,
    (35 Victories), and three (or more) unknown German Jasta's...Woollett was credited with
    shooting down six German aircraft during these combats...Three in each!
     
    Henry Woollett, a medical student before the war, joined the RFC in 1916, and was posted
    to 24 Sqn in November of that year. He scored one victory flying the (by then) obsolescent
    DH2, before converting to the DH5, in which he scored four more victories.
    In August 1917, he was sent home to England to become an instructor. He was then posted to
    43 Sqn in March 1918. He achieved thirty victories up until early August 1918 (including 11
    balloons), when he was again sent home to command three training squadrons.
    A brilliant pilot, and an excellent leader, he had great style too: He created quite a stir
    among the top brass by wearing a leopard skin flying helmet and matching gauntlets!
     
    This is how Woollett described both actions in his combat report:
     
    "At 10:30am, I led my patrol down on to eight EA just south-east of La Gorgue. I fired about
    30 rounds into one single seater; machine spun down and crashed just west of La Gorgue. I
    then dived on to another EA (a two seater); this I saw crash just north-east of La Gorgue.
    I climbed up and got on the tail of an Albatros and after firing 40 rounds it burst into flames,
    falling to pieces. I also saw another EA in flames, and also one crash which was shot down
    by Lt Daniel."
     
    "5:00pm. I led patrol down on to thirteen EA just north of LaGorgue. I fired about 30 rounds
    into one EA which was going east. This turned over on its back and fell to bits. I then
    climbed and got on to the tail of another Albatros; after firing several bursts into him, he
    spun down and crashed north-east of La Gorgue.
    On returning over lines I climbed up and found another EA at about 2,000 feet; this after
    about 20 rounds collapsed in the air and fell to bits. I saw two other EA crash, engaged by
    machines of my patrol."
     
    ============================================================
     
    To set the scene:
     
    At this time 43 Sqn were based at Avesnes-Le-Comte, about 10 miles west of Arras.
    Equipped with the excellent 110hp Le Rhone Sopwith Camel, 43 Sqn was a formidable unit.
    The weather was fine all that day, which allowed a great amount of aerial activity by both
    sides along the whole front. Indeed, the RAF Communique for that day states:
    "A record number of hours flying was done, a record number of photographs taken, and a
    record number of bombs dropped for any 24 hours since the war started."
     
    The Western Front on 12th April 1918 was a target rich environment...
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission guidelines:
     
    For the sake of surprise, I won't give too much away here, but if you want to re-enact the
    events of that day as accurately as possible, then read Woollett's combat report above, and
    try to emulate him...Be aware though that if you have your 'Gameplay' settings on 'Hard' (as
    you should!) then you'll have just 500 rounds of ammo in each combat...
    SO TAKE CAREFUL AIM!
     
    Part 1:
    When the mission begins you'll be approaching the front line, with your five wingmen of
    C flight at approximately 7,000 ft. Steer a course at anywhere between 15-100 degrees and
    make a gentle climb to about 8,000 ft, which is the height Woollett liked to patrol at to take
    advantage of the Camel's optimum performance at that altitude.
    If you survive this engagement, then make your way home to Arras airfield (see
    'Compromises & game limitations').
     
    Have a cup of tea and a lie down, then don your leopard skin flying helmet and gauntlets
    again, ready to lead C Flight's 2nd patrol of the day...
     
    Part 2:
    This early evening mission begins at around 7,200 ft, so again, you may want to gain a bit
    more height, and head for the front line at around 10-90 degrees...This one's a proper
    furball, so good luck! Again, consider the mission over if/when you make it home...
     
    In both missions remember; you'll have to give your wingmen the signal to engage
    (Usually: 'TAB', then '1' ). Otherwise, you'll be on your own...
     
    ============================================================
     
    Compromises and game limitations:
     
    1. During the spring of 1918 the German offensive had pushed the allies back further than
    the actual front line depicted in the game. However, La Gorgue is on the 'Flanders Terrain'
    map, so the action takes place above the correct area.
     
    2. The actual German Jasta's that 43 sqn encountered that day are unrecorded, and
    unfortunately, the Albatros DVa Jasta skins supplied in the game (numerous as they are) do
    not include any appropriate units that were based around the Lille area at that date.
    Therefore, I've had to utilise three random units; Jasta's 76b and 34b + 46, for mission parts
    1 and 2 respectively. They're nice colour schemes though!
     
    3. The 43 Sqn unit markings depicted in the game, utilise the earlier "white triangle" markings.
    At the time of this action they had been changed to two diagonal stripes either side of the
    fuselage roundel. They changed on 22/3/18, three weeks earlier...D'oh!
     
    4. Avesnes-Le-Comte, 43 Sqn's airfield is not on the "Flanders Terrain" Map, but Arras airfield
    is in the same general area, so I've used that instead.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission requirements:
     
    To fly this mission as intended, the only mod you'll need is:
     
    Flanders terrain.
    By Edward.
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'Maps/Terrains' section.
     
    Special thanks to Edward for producing this most excellent terrain, without which none of my
    missions would be possible!
     
    Although not essential, for extra realism and immersion I would recommend the following
    mods, available from the Combat Ace, Downloads site:
     
    'Thicker, Fuller Clouds'.
    By ShrikeHawk.
    Found in: 'Maps/Terrains'. 'Environmental Mods'.
    Excellent mod that greatly improves the "cotton wool ball" clouds effect.
     
    'FE Sounds'.
    By yours truly.
    Found in: 'Sound Mods'.
     
    For maximum realism I would also recommend that this mission be played with all gameplay
    settings set to 'Hard'.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Installation instructions:
     
    Install the mission by unzipping the downloaded file to the following path:
    C:/Program Files/Thirdwire/WW1/Missions
     
    Alternatively, you can drag and drop the unzipped MSN file directly into your 'Missions'
    folder.
     
    ============================================================
     
    I hope you enjoy flying this mission and find it both challenging and enjoyable enough to
    play it more than once. I've tried to make it as historically accurate and authentic as the
    game will allow.
    Feel free to change any of the parameters as you wish.
     
    I would welcome any suggestions or general feedback, good, bad or indifferent, via any one
    of the FE forums.
     
    Toodle pip!
     
    Bucky. 28/4/08
     
    ============================================================
     
    References used in creating this mission:
     
    'Sopwith Camel Aces Of WW1'...N. Franks.
    'British & Empire Aces Of WW1'...C. Shores.
    'Above The Trenches'...C. Shores, N. Franks & R. Guest.
    'Royal Air Force Communiques 1918'...C. Cole.
    'Sopwith Camel, King Of Combat'...C. Bowyer
    'Air Aces Of The 1914-1918 War'...J.M. Bruce & Others.
    'Sopwith Camel Squadrons'...L.A. Rogers.
    'Aces And Airmen Of WW1'...A.C.Wood.
    'W.W.1 Air Map' Website...Created By D.Townsend.
    http://patriot.net/~townsend/WW1AirMap2/ (Firefox browser required).

    258 downloads

       (2 reviews)

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  3. Cambrai Plane Fest II 1915 - 1918

    Cambrai Plane Fest II
     
    By : Firecage
     
    See the readme for installation info
     
    This is for the Exp pack and NO April patch.
     
    This is a list of all planes needed for this campaign to work.
     
    RAF Fighters:
    MSTypeH
    MSTypeL
    moraneN
    Avro504D
    Fe2B
    Dh2
    MartinsydeG100
    Fe8
    Pup
    Br14
    F2B
    Fe2C
    Triplane
    CamelF1_110
    CamelF1_130
    SE5a
    Dolphin
    CamelF1_150
    Snipe
     
    French Fighters:
    MSTypeH
    MSTypeL
    moraneN
    Fe2B
    Nieuport11
    Nieuport16
    Nieuport17bis
    Nieuport17
    SPAD7_150
    N24bis
    Hanriot
    Hanriot_CAM
    Hanriot_Dual
    SPAD7_180
    N24
    N27
    N27_DUAL
    N27_FAS
    N27_RFC
    SPAD13
    N28
     
    German Fighters:
    PfalzEI
    PfalzEIII
    FokkerEI
    FokkerEIa
    FokkerBII
    FokkerEIII
    PfalzEIV
    PfalzEV
    FokkerEIIIa
    FokkerEIV
    Fokker DII
    Fokker DIIIL
    FokkerEIVa
    AlbatrosD1
    Fokker DIII
    HalbD3
    AlbatrosD2
    OefAlbatrosDII
    AlbatrosD3_160
    AlbatrosD3
    AlbatrosD3_OAW
    AlbatrosD5
    AlbatrosD5a
    PfalzD3
    FokkerDr1
    PfalzD8
    SchuckertD3
    FokkerD7
    PfalzD12
    FokkerD7F
    FokkerD8
     
     
    As for the bombers these are the planes you will need to get this to work right…
     
    Allied Light Attack Bombers:
    MSTypeLAO
    BE-2A
    BE-2
    BE-2D
    Re8
    Salmson2A
     
    Allied Heavy Attack Bombers:
    SP3
    Ca3
    HP400
     
    German Light Attack Bombers:
    PfalzBI
    PfalzEIIIO
    PfalzEIIIAO
    AviatikC2
    Fokker BI
    Walfisch
    AEG G4
     
    German Heavy Attack Bombers:
    DFWC1
    Staaken
    DFWC5
    AEG G4
    GothaGIV

    680 downloads

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  4. Cambrai Plane Fest

    Cambrai France
    January 1 1916
     
    The new campaign is now ready to Download as soon as its approved....
     
    This campaign works on FE + Exp pack and FE+Exp+April Patch
     
    The plane sets as follows:
     
     
    1. Dh2
    2. F2B
    3. Fe8
    4. Pup
    5. CamelF1_110
    6. Triplane
    7. CamelF1_130
    8. SE5a
    9. CamelF1_150
    10. Nieuport11
    11. Nieuport17
    12. N24
    13. N24bis
    14. SPAD13
    15. N28
    16. HalbD3
    17. AlbatrosD1
    18. AlbatrosD2
    19. PfalzD3
    20. AlbatrosD3
    21. AlbatrosD3OAW
    22. AlbatrosD5
    23. AlbatrosD5a
    24. PfalzD8
    25. FokkerD7F
    26. Snipe
    27. RE8
    28. BE2
    29. Re8
    30. Salmson2A
    31. Ca3
    32. HP400
    33. Walfisch
    34. AviatikC2
    35. DFWC5
    36. AEG_G4
    37. Staaken
    38. GothaGIV
     
     
    The are also two additional packs included with the download.
     
    1) The cambrai_targets.ini file to add many extra ground, balloons and AAA nests.
     
    2) A new sound pack for FE planes to add realism for the sound of the game.
     
    As always if there are issues leave me a msg here and I will try and get the problem sorted out.
     
    Enjoy

    473 downloads

       (1 review)

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  5. Firecage Flying Circus Campaign

    Thanks for downloading this campaign.
     
    This release has only been tested in the exp pack and the exp pack +April 2008 versions. They may be interesting results when played in the Orig Release loads
     
    Fly in Jasta 11 squadron against the RAF and the French over Cambrai
     
    Contents of this zip file
     
    The whole “wwiCampFC_J11” folder which can be dropped into the main campaign folder and your ready to go.
     
    I have included my cambrai targets ini file so there are MANY more balloons and AAA nest including every airbase and all main cities. Just drop this file into the cambrai terrain folder.
     
    Planes needed for this campaign to work properly.
     
    AlbatrosD1
    AlbatrosD2
    AlbatrosD3
    PfalzD3
    AlbatrosD5a
    Dr1
    PfalzD12
    FokkerD7F
    Walfisch
    AviatikC2
    DFWC5
    GothaGIV
    Staaken
     
    Nieuport17
    SPAD7
    SPAD12
    N24
    N24bis
    N28
    Avro504C
    Avro504D
    Fe2B
    Pup
    Triplane
    CamelF1
    SE5a
    F2B
    Salmson2A
    BE2
    BE-2D
    Ca3
    HP400
     
    I will release a new update on this as I work out a problem on squad sizes and supplies that’s giving me trouble.
     
    Enjoy
     
    Firecage

    572 downloads

       (1 review)

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  6. McCudden Vs 'Green-Tail'. (56sqn vs Jasta 5)

    Updated 18/4/08.
    Just a quick note to confirm that this mission will work with the expansion pack and April 08 patch, as long as
    you have ALL required skins, terrain etc installed.
     
     
     
    A Quick Mission for First Eagles: "McCudden Vs "Green-Tail"
    ===================
     
    This mission is a re-enactment of an actual aerial combat that took place on Monday 18th February 1918, at
    approximately 10.30am, between two "elite" units: 56 Squadron RFC and Jasta 5.
     
    56 Sqn were based at Lavieville, near Albert. Led by Major James McCudden VC (57 victories).
    Jasta 5 were based at Boistrancourt, near Cambrai. Led by Oberleutnant Richard Flashar. (2 victories)
     
    =====================================
     
    McCudden gives a quite detailed account of the combat on page 255 of his excellent book 'Flying Fury'. Essential
    reading for any student of the first air war.
    In the book he describes several encounters with an Albatros DV which he dubs; "Green-Tail". He acknowledges
    the flying ability and bravery of the German pilot repeatedly. In fact, McCudden thought it was "Green-Tail" that
    killed his good friend Cpt Richard Maybery (21 victories), on 19/12/17 during a fight with Jasta 5.
     
    ==================================
     
    To set the scene:
     
    McCudden's flight took off at about 10.00am from Lavieville on an Offensive Patrol, and crossed the lines over
    Bourlon Wood at 13000 feet...Almost immediately they spotted a patrol of Albatros DV's below...
     
    This is how McCudden descibes the action in his book:
     
    "I signalled the attack to the patrol, and down we went, with the sun behind us. I singled out the leader and
    fired a good burst from both guns, and I must have riddled the pilot, for he still flew on straight until the machine
    burst into flames, and it then fell over sideways. I got a plain view of the Albatros as it fell a flaming wreck.
    It was "Green-Tail"! Maybery was avenged!"
     
    McCudden went on to score a second victory during this dogfight, bringing down another Albatros DV very soon
    after despatching "Green-Tail".
     
    There has always been controversy over exactly who "Green-Tail" was, McCudden describes the plane as having
    a white inverted 'V' on the top wing, and the letter 'K' on its fuselage.
    It's now pretty well established that his two victims that day were Unteroffizier Justus Kaiser who was killed, and
    Uffz Von Stein who survived the encounter, but was wounded.
    It's likely that they weren't from Jasta 5 at all, but from Jasta 35 who were also based nearby, and often flew
    alongside Jasta 5.
     
    The Jasta 5 skins available for FE, with their green tails will do nicely for our purposes though!
     
    ========================================
     
    Mission and game limitations:
     
    For the purposes of this mission (seeing as we don't yet have a skin that fits perfectly), We'll have to choose one
    of the currently available Jasta 5 schemes as "Green-Tail"...
    Well, fortunately there is one with an inverted 'V' on the wing, which I consider to be the closest match.
    So if you want to duplicate McCudden's actions, that is the plane you have to single out and bring down, plus at
    least one other.
     
    =========================================
     
    Mission Guidelines:
     
    When the mission starts, you'll be at an altitude of approximately 12,500 ft. with a few miles to fly until you reach
    the lines over Bourlon wood. Keep climbing until you reach 13000 ft or even a bit higher, and keep to a heading
    of around 60 degrees.
    Don't forget, you're looking for the Albatros with the white 'V' on the upper wing. although it's not a mission goal,
    so don't get target fixated!...And make sure you SIGNAL YOUR WINGMEN when you sight the enemy by pressing:
    'TAB', then '1'. Otherwise you'll be on your own!
     
    That's all I'm going to tell ya...Good Luck!
     
    PS. I've decided to start this mission in the air because at the moment FE is not geared up very well for take off's
    and landings.
     
    PPS. I've included a few German two seaters roaming the area that you can hunt down after the main furball....
    If you survive and have any ammo left!
     
    ========================================
     
    Requirements and installation:
     
    All skins and terrain are available from the downloads section of the Combat Ace website.
     
    To fly this mission, you'll need:
     
    Flanders Terrain
    By Edward.
     
    SE5a 56 Sqn, RFC,1917 - Two versions.
    By dhasdell.
    Available on Page 7 of the WW1 skins download page
    Not absolutely essential, but these markings are more accurate than the stock versions.
    Please note: If you want to fly as McCudden, then you'll have to select No.6 at the 'Loadout' screen.
    Nothing I do can induce the game to give the correct number automatically. Dunno why!
     
    Jasta 5 skins X 5.
    2 by JFM. 4 by Warbirds. (Yeah, I know that makes 6. Read on...)
    Available on page 13 and 16 of the WW1 skins download page
    Note that there are two versions of Flashar's "Dragon"...Only one required so take your pick!
     
    Many thanks to all the above artists for their most excellent contributions to this great game.
     
    ======================================
     
    Install the mission by unzipping the downloaded file to the following path:
    C:/Program Files/Thirdwire/WW1/Missions
     
    ======================================
     
    Phew!...Sorry for the long winded intro. I hope you enjoy flying this Quick mission and find it challenging enough.
    I've tried to make it as authentic as the game will allow.
     
    If you find anything wrong with it, or have any suggestions please let me know via any one of the FE forums.
     
    Cheers!
     
    Bucky.
     
    ***************************************
    ***************************************

    320 downloads

       (6 reviews)

    0 comments

    Updated

  7. Rene Fonck: 'Ace Of Aces'. Parts 1 & 2

    Updated 18/4/08.
    Just a quick note to confirm that this mission will work with the expansion pack and
    April 08 patch, as long as you have ALL required skins, terrain etc installed.
     
     
     
    A Mission For First Eagles.
     
    Bucky's Quick Mission No.5. Rene Fonck: 'Ace Of Aces'. Parts 1 & 2.
     
    Released: 09/05/07... The 89th anniversary of the action depicted in this mission.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Introduction:
     
    Ask any student of the first air war to name their top ten WW1 fighter pilots and all the usual
    names will crop up, plus maybe, a few lesser knowns. Chances are though, the name Rene
    Fonck won't be among them... He's been largely forgotten... Even in his own country.
    A true case of criminal neglect IMHO, because Rene Fonck was probably THE greatest fighter
    pilot of WW1. The only problem is/was, Fonck knew how good he was and wouldn't let anyone
    forget it...He was regarded as a boastful, boorish, braggart, and generally not well liked by
    his comrades.
    But when you talk the talk, you've got to be able to walk the walk...Fonck could and did!
     
    This mission, which comes in two parts, depicts the events of Thursday, May 9th, 1918. This
    was the date that Sous-Lt Rene Fonck of escadrille SPA103, shot down six German aircraft
    in a single day...An outstanding feat in itself , but amazingly, he was to repeat it again on
    September 26th!
    In fact, he brought down two or more enemy planes in one day, an incredible eighteen times
    in one year!
     
    His marksmanship was of olympic gold medal standard. He usually expended very little
    ammunition when bringing down enemy aircraft. About nine rounds on average.
     
    His official end of war total was 75 confirmed victories, but in his book 'Ace Of Aces', he gave
    all the dates for a further 52 unconfirmed victories, which would give him an actual score
    of 127.
     
     
    ============================================================
     
    To set the scene:
     
    On May 9th, Fonck didn't even begin flying until 3:45pm because of bad weather, but soon
    after crossing the allied lines with his two wingmen, he spotted three enemy two-seaters. He
    shot down all three in a fight that lasted just 45 seconds...They all crashed within 400 metres
    of each other!
     
    After landing to refuel, he took off again at 5:30pm. It was very cloudy and eventually Fonck
    became separated from his two wingmen. He emerged from a dense cloud and immediately
    came across another German two-seater and shot that down.
    Continuing his patrol, he spotted a flight of four Fokker D.VII's, escorted by five Albatros
    D.V's flying slightly above, and ahead of the D.VII's. Weighing up the odds and feeling brave,
    Fonck put his SPAD into a dive, positioned himself amongst the nine enemy planes and shot
    down the rearmost D.VII.
    Alerted by the machine gun noise, the remaining E/A attempted to turn and bring their guns
    to bear on Fonck, but this manoeuvre slowed them down, and his momentum allowed him to
    pass between them. He then shot down the leader of the patrol and bolted for home, with
    seven enemy planes in hot pursuit!
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission guidelines:
     
    As already stated, this mission comes in two parts to more accurately depict the events,
    weather and timing of Thursday, May 9th, 1918.
     
    PART 1.
    You'll join the action at about 7500 feet, having just crossed the allied lines at 4:15pm. The
    weather, which has kept you grounded for most of the day has cleared nicely, Although it's
    still quite cloudy.
    You're accompanied by your two able wingmen; Lt Fontaine and Cpt Battle. Suddenly, you
    spot three specks in the distance...Bosche two-seaters!... Manouevre yourself into a
    favourable position and dive into the fray!
    Fonck managed to shoot down all three German two-seaters himself...Can you do the same?
     
    Having achieved the mission goal, feel free to press 'ALT+N' to fast forward to your
    aerodrome...You can then land, and wait while your ground crew refuel and re-arm your
    SPAD...You may want to grab yourself a coffee and a croissant while you wait...
     
    PART 2.
    We join the action at 12,500 feet. It's 6:10pm, and you've been in the air for 40 minutes. It's
    very cloudy and you've lost your two wingmen, and the light is fading...
    You emerge from a dense cloud to find a German reconnaisance plane very close by...Once
    you send him down, prepare yourself to dive into the midst of the Fokker D.VII's and
    Albatros D.V's!
    Fonck shot down two Fokker D.VII's before making a break for home, but do feel free to try
    and better him if you think you can!
     
    If you survive, you can navigate your way back to Villers Bretonneaux airfield (or press
    ALT+N like I always do!) and land to a rapturous reception from your comrades...Just as
    Fonck did.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Compromises and game limitations:
     
    1. During the spring and summer of 1918 the German offensive had pushed the allies back
    much further than the actual front line depicted in the game. Also, the FE map is very sparsely
    populated around the Montdidier area where these combats actually took place. This means
    that I've not been able to place the action as accurately on the map as I would've liked.
     
    2. FE won't allow multiple 'named wingmen' in the players flight. This means the game will
    recognise only the players plane. consequently, there will be no record of your wingmen's
    actions in the 'stats' screen at end of mission. It also means you can't issue orders via the
    'tab' button.
    The good news is; this doesn't stop your wingmen from participating in the action, although
    for this mission you won't want any help anyway!
     
    3. In Fonck's second patrol, about 45 minutes passed between him shooting down the
    two-seater and the dogfight with the flight of German fighters...Here, I've condensed the
    action to save you flying around aimlessly for the best part of an hour.
     
    4. Again, in the second patrol, Fonck was able to dive into the German fighter formation
    undetected before causing havoc...As far as I can tell, the AI in First Eagles is 'all seeing'...
    This makes it impossible (I think!) to sneak up on 'em! You'll just have to take your chances
    mixing it with 'em I'm afraid!
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission requirements:
     
    To fly this mission as intended, you'll need:
     
    Flanders terrain.
    By Edward.
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'Maps/Terrains' section.
     
    Rene Fonck SPAD XIII skin.
    By HerGr.
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'WW1 Aircraft Skins' section
     
    Many thanks to all the above artists for their most excellent contributions to this great game.
     
    For maximum realism, the mission should be played with all gameplay settings set to 'Hard'.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Installation instructions:
     
    Install the mission by unzipping the downloaded file to the following path:
    C:/Program Files/Thirdwire/WW1/Missions
     
    Alternatively, you can drag and drop the unzipped MSN file directly into your 'Missions' folder.
     
    ============================================================
     
    I hope you enjoy flying this mission and find it both challenging and enjoyable enough to play
    it more than once...I've tried to make it as historically accurate and authentic as the game
    will allow.
    Feel free to change any of the parameters as you wish.
     
    I would welcome any suggestions or general feedback, good, bad or indifferent, via any one
    of the FE forums.
     
    Bon chance!
     
    Bucky.
     
    9/5/07

    337 downloads

       (6 reviews)

    1 comment

    Updated

  8. Firecage Plane Fest Campaign Ver 4.1

    THIS IS FOR FE PRE EXPANSION PACK! THIS MAY NOT WORK WELL AFTER THE EXP PACK IS INSTALLED. I HAVE NOT TESTED IT YET..
     
    Firecage Plane Fest 4.0
     
     
    1st off …. Tip of the Hat to all the plane makers… thank you for the time and effort your putting in so I can have fun 
     
    This campaign has about 60 airplanes in it now. (see note above)
     
    I do all the testing on hard FM and all settings to hard. So if things don’t seem even in normal mode that’s why.
     
    All of the plane sets have been done to make room for the newest planes that the mod people have available.
     
    I have moved the start dates back to October 5th 1915 to make more room for so many early planes and still have time to enjoy and learn each one well.
     
    I have redone all the upgrade plane dates so the planes match up as closely as I can. As normal I try and balance what is available. I do my best with what I have.
     
    Bomber squads available for the RAF and Germans. (flyable)
     
    Fixed a few text entries to docs that were showing wrong versions in game.
     
    Please read the installation and Plane Fest Doc for more info.

    1,936 downloads

       (11 reviews)

    0 comments

    Updated

  9. Firecage - Flanders Plane Fest Ver 1.0

    THIS IS FOR FE PRE EXPANSION PACK! THIS MAY NOT WORK WELL AFTER THE EXP PACK IS INSTALLED. I HAVE NOT TESTED IT YET..
     
    Welcome to Flanders !!!
     
    Please read the planesused.txt, the Planefest doc, and the installation.txt files for more info.
     
     
    1. The Fest is now split into (2) parts to make the campaign work properly.
    • One Campaign is RAF vs Germany
    • One Campaign isFrance vs Germany.
     
    2. Every Fighter Squadron will start from their own base. No base is shared between squads now. ** see the included .psp file for base locations.
     
    3. There may be bomber and fighter squads at same bases but not as a norm.
     
    4. This campaign uses a large amount of the Flanders Map. The squads are spread out quite a bit so I am hopeful all the squads will see different areas of the map in missions.
     
    5. There are no flyable bomber squads at this time.
     
    6. I have made a very intensive set of ground war paths so this should make for more ground realism in missions.
     
    7. For designing this campaign I used the following:
     
    • Firecage FM for the DR1
    • Peter01 FM’s for Bortdafarms Planes
    • Rotagen’s FM for Borts DIII
    • Ver 3.0 FMs for Latons Pfalz and Morane’s
    • Hard FM mode for the flight model
    • Flanders Terrain by Edward.
     
    You do not have to use these add-on FM’s at all, it’s your call. This is only information what I used to test and design with since I get asked a lot.

    911 downloads

       (5 reviews)

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  10. Cambrai 1917

    Cambrai, November 1917
    ================
     
    A campaign for First Eagles.
    This is a historical campaign for the Flanders terrain in First Eagles, to recreate the air battles of late-1917, the time of the debut of the tank, at Cambrai. It follows on from my previous release, "Bloody April" 1917. It requires a standard install of First Eagles, plus Edward's Flanders terrain, and some extra add-on aircraft. There is a TXT file which explains all that is required.
    The campaign uses a variety of appropriate late-1917 aircraft, and every mission will provide extensive aerial action, with large numbers of aircraft from different squadrons going about their various missions along the Front.
     
    The aircraft which operate in this campaign are the:
     
    BE.2d
    Bristol Fighter F2B
    Nieuport 24bis
    SE.5a
    Spad XIII
    Sopwith Camel
     
    Albatros D.III
    Albatross D.V
    Aviatik C.2
    DFW C.V
    Fokker Dr.1 triplane
    Gotha G.IV
    Pfalz D.III
    Zeppelin Staaken
     
     
    Historical Background
    =====================
    By November 1917 the British Army has been continuously on the offensive in Flanders for four months, in bloody battles at Ypres, Messines and Passchendaele, and most of the German Army reserves have been drawn there. A bold stroke was planned well to the south, in the direction of Cambrai. The Army, spearheaded by a new secret weapon, the tank, would make a major push.
     
    In the air, the start of 1917 had been a difficult time for the Royal Flying Corps, culminating in the disastrous "Bloody April", but by the end of the year, the tide had turned somewhat. Newer machines, such as the Sopwith Camel, SE.5a and Bristol F2B fighter, were coming into service, which were a match for all German machines except for the new and deadly Fokker Triplane.

    1,160 downloads

       (5 reviews)

    0 comments

    Updated

  11. Bloody April 1917

    Bloody April 1917
    =================
    A campaign for First Eagles.
    This is a historical campaign for the Flanders terrain in First Eagles, to recreate the nadir of the Royal Fying Corps, "Bloody April" 1917. It requires a standard install of First Eagles, plus Edward's Flanders terrain, and a number of extra add-on aircraft. There is a TXT file which explains all that is required.
    The campaign uses a variety of early-1917 aircraft, and every mission will provide extensive aerial action, with large numbers of aircraft from different squadrons going about their various missions along the Front.
     
     
    Historical Background
    =====================
    A major British offensive was planned to commence in the Arras area in Flanders in April 1917. The First Army (General Horne) and the Fifth Army (General Allenby), comprising British, Australian, Canadian and Indian troops, would make a major push along the River Scarpe, and towards Vimy Ridge. A month of bloody fighting yielded little except heavy casualties on both sides, on the ground and in the air. A brilliant Canadian assault captured Vimy Ridge, and a tenacious Australian attack at Bullecourt penetrated the Hindenurg line for a time, but stubborn German resistance limited the gains to no more than a few miles overall.
     
    In the air, early 1917 was a difficult time for the Royal Flying Corps. The Fokker scourge of early 1916 had been defeated by aircraft such as the DH.2 and the FE.2B, but by early 1917 these aircraft were obsolescent, and were facing newer German machines such as the formidable Albatross D.III. In addition, the German air force was now operating on the Flanders front in larger "Jastas", or "Flying Circuses". Newer British machines such as the Sopwith Pup and Triplane and the Bristol Fighter F2B were becoming available, but in small numbers. The Royal Flying Corps would suffer grievous losses in "Bloody April".

    1,237 downloads

       (5 reviews)

    0 comments

    Updated

  12. Five Fokker's! March 2nd, 1916.

    A mission for First Eagles.
     
    Bucky's Quick Mission No.6: Five Fokker's! March 2nd, 1916.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Introduction:
     
    This mission is a re-enactment of an actual aerial combat that took place in the
    early morning of Tuesday, March 2nd, 1916.
     
    On this day, Sgt T.P.H. Bayetto (That's him in the Morane's 'Loadout' screen
    photo), flying a Morane Type N "Bullet" of No.3 Squadron RFC, was escorting
    a Morane BB two-seater on a long reconnaissance mission over Vallenciennes,
    a few miles SW of Mons, when they were attacked by five Fokker Eindekker's.
     
    This is how the action was described in the 'Royal Flying Corps Communiques',
    a weekly written report of significant actions, produced for the RFC's internal
    consumption throughout the war:
     
    "Sgt Bayetto (Morane Scout, 3 Sqn) on escort duty to the Vellenciennes
    reconnaissance, reports having been attacked by 5 Fokker's in the
    neighbourhood of Vallenciennes. The reconnaissance machine dived to get
    clear, but was closely followed by the hostile machines. Sgt Bayetto opened fire
    on the nearest hostile machine and drove it down, apparently into the woods
    near Vallenciennes. After this engagement he saw no more signs of the
    reconnaissance machine and returned over Lille where he was again attacked
    by 3 Fokker's. These he eventually evaded and after circling round Lille for 15
    minutes, returned to his landing ground."
     
    In actual fact, Bayetto couldn't find his comrades because they had just become
    the ninth victims of the infamous German fighter ace, Max Immelmann...
     
    The Morane BB's pilot Lt C.W. Palmer, managed to get the stricken plane down
    safely despite being shot in the foot. The observer, Lt H.F. Birdwood was killed.
    Palmer was hospitalised but died of septicaemia on March 29th after having his
    foot amputated.
     
    T.P.H. Bayetto was killed in an air crash in England in July 1918.
     
    Immelmann fell to his death in controversial circumstances on June 18th, 1916.
     
    ============================================================
     
    To set the scene:
     
    From the time of its introduction in mid 1915, the Fokker Eindekker had only been
    encountered in small numbers. Initially, it was distributed in one's and two's to the
    two-seater Feldfleiger Abteilung units as an escort machine. Even so, in spite of
    the relatively few Eindekker's available (only about 55 by October 1915), its impact
    was considerable, inflicting heavy casualties on the RFC's slow and poorly armed
    aircraft.
    By early 1916, the Germans had realised that the Eindekker would be more
    effective if used in greater numbers and within dedicated fighter formations which
    they called Kampfeinsitzer Kommando units (KeK's).
     
    This mission depicts the day when the RFC encountered one such unit: KeK Douai,
    consisting of five Fokker E.III's...The largest number seen together up until that
    time...From early March onward, the Fokker's hunted in packs! However, once the
    RFC started to receive the Airco DH2 and Nieuport 11 in significant numbers in the
    spring of 1916, it spelled the end of the period that came to be known as
    "The Fokker Scourge".
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission guidelines:
     
    Flying as Bayetto in a Morane Bullet, the mission begins at approximately 6700
    feet. You're already deep inside enemy territory. Keep close to the reconnaissance
    machine you're escorting, and follow him to the target.
     
    Remember; to replicate Bayetto's actions you'll have to take out at least one
    Eindekker (FYI: Max Immelmann will be in the E.III that attacks first...A chance to
    alter history?), then fly over Lille on your way home...Assuming you're lucky
    enough to even begin the homeward journey!
     
    Just a few words of warning:
    Archie is liable to be quite active, so you might want to jink about a bit.
    More importantly...BEWARE THE HUN IN THE SUN!
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission requirements:
     
    To fly this mission as intended, you'll need:
     
    Flanders Terrain.
    By Edward.
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'Maps/Terrains, section.
     
    Morane N "Bullet".
    By P10ppy.
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'Add On Aircraft', 'WW1', section.
     
    BE2c.
    By Capun and his team at Skunkworks
    To be found at the Skunkworks site. (Registration required.)
     
    Fokker E.III.
    By Laton. Skins by V.Deutschmark. FM by Peter01.
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'Add On Aircraft', 'WW1', section.
     
    Fokker E.III, Buhme skin.
    By V.Deutschmark.
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'WW1 Skins', Section
     
     
    PLEASE NOTE:
    The BE2c has a tendency to fly at low throttle, which makes the propeller rotate
    too slowly. This also makes it very hard to keep the Morane from overtaking it all
    the time. Therefore, I changed the following parameters in the BE2c Data.INI
    file. You may want to do the same?
     
    I think the AI flies it much better with these settings:
     
    [Engine]
    SlowPropRPM=1200
    FastPropRPM=1550
    MaxPropRPM=1800
    IdlePropRPM=950
     
    For maximum realism, the mission should be played with all gameplay settings
    set to 'Hard'.
     
    Many thanks to all the above artists for their most excellent contributions to this
    great game.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Compromises and game limitations:
     
    The No.3 Squadron reconnaissance machine in use that day was a Morane BB,
    a sort of two seat biplane version of the "Bullet". This plane is not available
    for FE at this time, so I've had to use the equally slow and vulnerable BE2c...
    C'est la vie!
     
    Lesser annoyances are:
     
    Vallenciennes doesn't exist on the FE map, but the action does take place over the
    same general area, so no big deal.
     
    Hardly worth mentioning but Bayetto's Morane would not have been painted red at
    this time. The order to paint the noses of all Type N's was given in mid July, during
    the battle of the Somme, to minimise the possibility of the Morane being mistaken
    for the Fokker Eindekker.
     
    I've had to use V. Deutschmark's Buhme skin to depict Immelmann's E.III.
    Immelmann did fly an Eindekker with a very similar paint job though.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Installation instructions:
     
    Install the mission by unzipping the downloaded file to the following path:
    C:/Program Files/Thirdwire/WW1/Missions
     
    Alternatively, you can drag and drop the unzipped MSN file directly into your
    'Missions' folder.
     
    ============================================================
     
    I hope you enjoy flying this mission and find it both challenging and enjoyable
    enough to play it more than once...I've tried to make it as historically accurate
    and authentic as the game will allow.
    Feel free to change any of the parameters as you wish.
     
    I would welcome any suggestions or general feedback, good, bad or indifferent,
    via any one of the FE forums.
     
    Best of British!
     
    Bucky. 28/5/07
     
    ============================================================
     
    References used in creating this mission:
     
    'Royal Flying Corps Communiques 1915-1916'... Edited by C. Cole.
    'British Fighter Units Western Front 1914-16'... A. Revell.
    'Early German Aces of World War 1'... G. Van Wyngarden.
    'The Jasta War Chronology'... N. Franks. F. Bailey & R. Duiven.
    'Under The Guns of the German Aces'. N. Franks & H. Giblin.
    'Sharks Among Minnows'... N. Franks.
    'Above The Lines'... N. Franks. F.W. Bailey & R. Guest.
    'Above The Trenches'... C. Shores. N. Franks & R. Guest.
    'Morane-Saulnier Types N,I,V'... Windsock Datafile No.58. J.M. Bruce.
    'Fokker E.III'. Windsock Datafile No.15... P.M. Grosz.
    'Fokker E.I-II'. Windsock Datafile No.91... P.M. Grosz.
     
    ============================================================
    ============================================================

    282 downloads

       (1 review)

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    Submitted

  13. 19 squadron Dolphin Vs Jasta 6 Fokker D.VIII

    A mission for First Eagles.
     
    Bucky's quick mission No.1. 19 squadron Dolphin Vs Jasta 6 Fokker D.VIII.
     
    =======================================================
     
    This mission, although a 'what if' scenario is quite a plausible aerial engagement that
    is accurate regarding geography and timing relating to the two units involved
    (19sqn & Jasta 6).
     
     
    Jasta 6 received the Fokker D.VIII (or the Fokker E.V as it was first called) at the
    end of July 1918, Jasta 6 being the first to receive it. However, on August the 16th
    they lost a pilot because of wing failure, and again on the 19th...The E.V was then
    quickly taken out of service until the weakness was diagnosed and cured.
    It was accepted back in service in early October, and by the end of the war a mere
    80 had been delivered. There is no record of it being used in combat during the last
    weeks of the war.
     
    So to maintain historical accuracy this mission takes place the day before the wing
    failure incidents; (15/8/18.) At this time Jasta 6 were based at Bernes, a few miles
    north of St Quentin, which in turn, is about 30 miles from Douai
     
    19 Squadron, using the Sopwith Dolphin at this time, were based at Savy, about 20
    miles from Douai.
     
     
    You're flying an offensive patrol with your two 19 sqn wingmen, at 08.25 on Thursday
    15/8/18. You have just crossed the German front lines at 12,000 feet near Douai,
    looking for trouble. You're mindful of the fact that there have been recent rumours
    within the RAF of a new German monoplane fighter in operation on the western front,
    reported as being very manoeuvrable... You're about to find out those rumours are
    horribly true!....
     
    =======================================================
     
    To use this mission as intended, you'll need:
     
    Flanders terrain.
    By Edward
     
    The Sopwith Dolphin.
    By Capun and his team. Available from the Skunkworks site (Registration required).
     
    The Fokker D.VIII.
    By Laton. Available from the Combat Ace download section.
     
    The 19 Sqn Blue Nose Dolphin skin.
    By Gambit168. Available from the Combat Ace download section.
     
    All three Fokker D.VIII Jasta 6 skins.
    By V. Deutschmark. Available from the Combat Ace download section.
     
    A big thank you to all of the above artists for their most excellent contributions to this
    great game.
     
    =======================================================
     
    To install, simply unzip the downloaded file to:
    C:/Program Files/Thirdwire/WW1/Missions.
     
    Or unzip to your desktop and drag and drop, or copy, then paste into your missions
    folder.
     
    =======================================================
     
    Feel free to change the mission anyway you like, and should you find anything wrong
    with it, please let me know.
     
    EDIT, 11/4/07: One thing I didn't realise when I first put this mission together is that
    unless you tell your wingmen to 'Engage Air', they won't fire a single shot!
    So remember to hit the TAB button and select '1' if you want some help from your
    Squadron comrades...Think of it as firing a flare gun!
     
    Have fun!
     
    Bucky.
     
    =======================================================
    =======================================================

    362 downloads

       (4 reviews)

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    Updated

  14. Billy Bishop's Dawn Raid

    A mission for First Eagles.
     
    Bucky's Quick Mission No.4: 'Billy Bishop's Dawn Raid'.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Introduction:
     
    This Mission is a re-enactment of an action that took place at around 5.00am on Saturday,
    2nd June, 1917.
     
    On this day, Canadian, Capt William Avery Bishop attacked an unknown German aerodrome
    (Estourmel?) near Cambrai, single handed, shooting down three German planes that had
    attempted to take off to intercept him, and inflicting damage on parked planes and equipment
    on the ground. For this action he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
     
    Bishop, was at this time in 60 Squadron, flying a Nieuport 17 (serial No.B1566). He had been
    promoted to Captain and given command of a flight after just one month of flying at the front.
    A remarkable feat in itself.
    He survived the war as the leading British and Empire ace, with a total of 72 victories. It has
    to be said though, that none of his claims have been verified by documented German losses.
    Indeed, the action depicted in this mission can't be corroborated by any witnesses
    whatsoever, and it's a strange fact that he was awarded the VC on just his word alone...
    Something never achieved by any other VC winner, before or since!
     
    I would recommend doing a Google search for the full story, then make up your own mind
    about him...
     
    ============================================================
     
    To set the scene:
     
    At this time 60 Sqn was based at Filescamp Farm, on Le Hameau aerodrome, a few miles
    west of Arras. Bishop had for some time been planning an audacious dawn attack on an
    enemy aerodrome...Originally, he was to be escorted by another famous VC winner; Albert
    Ball, but he had been killed (in controversial circumstances) on 7th may 1917, so now Bishop
    planned to go alone...
     
    At about 03.45 hours on Saturday, June 2nd, 1917, Bishop set off from Le Hameau in his
    Nieuport 17. It was still dark, misty, and raining.
    Soon after crossing the front lines he came across an enemy airfield but found it devoid of
    activity, so flew on in search of a better target.
    At about 5.am, just as the sun was rising and with the bad weather clearing, he found exactly
    what he was looking for...Ahead was a German aerodrome with seven parked machines,
    being made ready for the dawn patrol by several mechanics and groundcrew.
     
    He made a low, sweeping pass, strafing the row of Albatros D.III's and generally causing
    mayhem...As he turned to repeat the manoeuvre, he saw one D.III taking off to intercept
    him. Bishop lined himself up behind the German and shot him down.
    Moments later, another D.III was attempting the same thing... Bishop again manoeuvred
    his Nieuport into position, but in his excitement, missed from quite close range. However, his
    fire unnerved the German pilot, who lost control and steered his plane into a tree.
     
    Bishop turned again toward the airfield and this time he saw two D.III's taking off at the
    same time,...in opposite directions. One headed for Bishop while the other tried to gain
    height to launch his attack. He was now in a turning fight with the nearest Albatros.
    Managing to turn his more agile Nieuport inside, he fired a long burst into the enemy plane,
    which then crashed to the ground just outside the airfield perimeter.
     
    After an intense but indecisive combat with the fourth D.III, and worried that he was
    dangerously low on ammo, Bishop hightailed it away quickly, even throwing his Lewis gun
    overboard to gain speed. He was chased by more enemy fighters all the way back to the
    front line, but got back safely to his aerodrome.
    His mechanics couldn't believe his Nieuport had made it back with so many bullet holes...
    It was literally riddled!
     
    Bishop describes the action in great detail in his book 'Winged Warfare'. A WW1 air war
    classic.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission guidelines:
     
    The mission starts a short time after Bishop had found the first inactive German airfield...
    You'll be at about 1500 ft.
    Keep to a heading of around 80 degrees. You'll see Cambrai on your right as you approach
    the main Cambrai to Douai road. You should soon be able to see the aerodrome at the
    1.00 O'clock position.
     
    How you approach it is up to you, but Bishop descended to 300ft to achieve the maximum
    surprise. Get to the airfield quick, and the action should pan out just as it happened to
    Bishop.
    A few last words of advice though...ZOOM 'N DIVE,...BOB 'N WEAVE...DO NOT FLY IN A
    STRAIGHT LINE!!
     
    If you find the mission too hard:
    Go to the game's 'Missions' folder, open the Bishop mission, then find the line;
    EnemyAirDefenseActivity= and change the 3 to 1 or 2. Then save and exit.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission requirements:
     
    To fly this mission as intended, you'll need:
     
    Flanders terrain.
    By Edward.
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'Maps/Terrains section.
     
    Nieuport 17
    By Tex Murphy & Monty CZ
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'Add On Aircraft' section.
     
    Albatros D.III
    By Capun and his team at Skunkworks
    To be found at the Skunkworks site. (Registration required)
     
    Active Battlefield for First Eagles Version 2
    By Heck.
    To be found in the Combat Ace, Downloads, 'Maps/Terrains section.
    Not sure if this is essential but it's a great mod and highly recommended
    anyway!
     
    PLEASE NOTE: I've tested this mission with Gr.Viper's excellent 'FE-Simple Machine Gun
    Mod' installed, and found it exciting, but unfortunately, next to impossible!
    So if you have this mod in your game, you may want to disable it to play this mission with
    any chance of survival!...Or give it a try if you're feeling particularly brave!
     
    For maximum realism, the mission should be played with all gameplay settings set to 'Hard'.
     
    Many thanks to all the above artists for their most excellent contributions to this great game.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Compromises and game limitations:
     
    The only compromise to historical accuracy in this particular mission is that Bishop's Nieuport
    17 was actually armed with a single overwing Lewis gun, as opposed to the Vickers supplied
    with Tex Murphy and Monty CZ's excellent version. A bit of a shame because Bishop had to
    reload a new drum onto his Lewis gun three or more times during the action, and it would
    have been nice to be able to replicate that.
    Never mind though, you should still have more than enough ammo to cause just as much
    mayhem and destruction!
     
    The good news: The RFC Nieuport actually depicts Bishop's Nieuport 17, serial No.B1566!
     
    ============================================================
     
    Installation instructions:
     
    Install the mission by unzipping the downloaded file to the following path:
    C:/Program Files/Thirdwire/WW1/Missions
     
    Alternatively, you can drag and drop the unzipped MSN file directly into your 'Missions' folder.
     
    ============================================================
     
    I hope you enjoy flying this mission and find it both challenging and enjoyable enough to play
    it more than once...I've tried to make it as historically accurate and authentic as the game
    will allow.
    Feel free to change any of the parameters as you wish.
     
    I would welcome any suggestions or general feedback, good, bad or indifferent, via any one
    of the FE forums.
     
    Be Lucky!
     
    Bucky. 3/5/07
     
    ============================================================
    ============================================================

    329 downloads

       (5 reviews)

    0 comments

    Updated

  15. Berthold: The 'Iron Knight' Of Jasta 15.

    A Mission for First Eagles:
     
    Bucky's Quick Mission No.3: 'Berthold: The 'Iron Knight' Of Jasta 15'.
     
    ============================================================
     
    This mission is a re-enactment of an actual aerial combat that took place at about
    6.30pm on Wednesday, 29th May, 1918, between Jasta 15 and two unknown French
    Escadrilles.
     
    During this action, Hptm Rudolf Berthold, leader of Jasta 15 and Kommandeur of
    Jagdeschwader II, flying his new Fokker DVII, brought down two planes within ten minutes of
    each other: A Spad XIII and a Breguet XIV of two unknown French units. These were his
    victory numbers; 30 and 31.
    However, he was lucky to survive the combat as his machine gun interrupter gear
    malfunctioned and he almost shot his own propeller off!
     
    Berthold (44 victories), was a strict disciplinarian and was dubbed; 'The Iron Knight' by his
    men. He accepted no excuses from them...Not even a gun jam or engine trouble was reason
    enough to withdraw from a fight as far as he was concerned!
    Although suffering many horrendous injuries during the war, he refused to stop flying...
    Enduring agonising pain caused by an injury to his right arm that was so bad he had to fly
    one handed!.
    He survived the war, only to be killed by his own countrymen in 1920. Courageous to the
    point of foolhardiness, his combat career makes interesting reading. Do a Google search and
    be amazed!
     
    ============================================================
     
    To set the scene:
     
    At this time Berthold's Jasta 15 were based at Mesnil-Bruntel, a few miles east of Amiens.
    Their Fokker DVII's were so new, it's doubtful if the red and blue paint used to decorate them
    was totally dry! They had received them just a couple of days before.
    The Aisne offensive had been launched by the Germans on the 27th, and was proving
    successful, forcing the allies back about 20 miles. Jasta 15 were very much in the thick of the
    action, opposed as they were, by three allied air forces: British, French and American.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission guidelines:
     
    Flying as Berthold, you're leading five wingmen of your jasta on the evening patrol. You're
    approaching the front at approximately 9000 ft.
    While busy contemplating how truly splendid your freshly painted, spanking new DVII's look
    in the evening sunshine, you suddenly notice a group of aeroplanes about a kilometre away
    and 1500 meters below, heading toward a German airfield....FRENCH BOMBERS!...
     
    ============================================================
     
    Mission Requirements:
     
    To fly this mission as intended, you'll need:
     
    Flanders Terrain.
    By Edward.
     
    Jasta 15 skins X6
    By Warbirds and JFM.
     
    Breguet 14
    By Capun and his team at Skunkworks.
     
    Many thanks to all the above artists for their most excellent contributions to this great game.
     
    ============================================================
     
    Compromises and game limitations:
     
    1. During the spring and summer of 1918 the German offensive had pushed the allies back
    much further than the actual front line depicted in the game. Also, the FE map is very
    sparsely populated around the Soissons area where this combat actually took place. This
    means that I've not been able to place the action as accurately on the map as I would've liked.
    Never mind, it isn't that far away.
     
    3. FE won't allow multiple 'named wingmen' in the players flight. This means the game will
    recognise only the players plane. consequently, there will be no record of your wingmen's
    actions in the 'stats' screen at end of mission. It also means you can't issue orders via the
    'tab' button.
    The good news is; this doesn't stop your wingmen from participating in the furball!
     
    ============================================================
     
    Installation Instructions:
     
    Install the mission by unzipping the downloaded file to the following path:
    C:/Program Files/Thirdwire/WW1/Missions
     
    Alternatively, you can drag and drop the MSN file directly into your 'Missions' folder.
     
    ============================================================
     
    I hope you enjoy flying this mission and find it challenging enough to play it more than once...
    I've tried to make it as accurate and authentic as the game will allow.
    Feel free to change any of the parameters as you wish. In fact, if you have a low to medium
    spec PC, you may wish to lower the number of aircraft used in the mission, to achieve
    smoother frame rates.
     
    I would welcome any suggestions or feedback, good or bad, via any one of the FE forums.
     
    Happy hunting!
     
    Bucky.
     
    ========================================================================================================================

    345 downloads

       (4 reviews)

    0 comments

    Updated

  16. First Eagles: Hitting the Zeppelins (Avro)

    Hitting the Zeppelins (Avro 504D)
     
    Requires Flanders terrain from Combat Ace and Bortdafarm's Avro 504D, Fokker EIII and Fokker DII, all available from http://www.ebort2.co.uk/FE.html. Just drop into the Missions folder of First Eagles.
     
    This mission allows a flight of Avro's to take off from St Pol, attack a Zeppelin base near Zeebrugge and return home. Enemy fighters may or may not appear. I have deliberately kept it simple because when tested, it worked.

    419 downloads

       (2 reviews)

    0 comments

    Updated

  17. First Eagles: Hitting the Zeppelins

    Hitting the Zeppelins
     
    Requires Flanders terrain and A-team Camel, but no other extras. Just drop into the Missions folder of First Eagles.
     
    This mission allows a flight of Camels to take off from St Pol, attack a Zeppelin base near Zeebrugge and return home. Enemy fighters may or may not appear.

    483 downloads

       (3 reviews)

    0 comments

    Updated

  18. Rotagen's 1916 Flying Circus (German_Defense)

    Requires some planes from Here: (combatace.com) See "readme" file. I wanted a Campaign where I didn't have to fly to "egypt" to see an enemy squadron, I wanted to fly some early war planes, and I wanted to see lots of planes in a Random fashion. I liked the result. Hopefully you will too. I think you will get more action flying German, but try both.

    745 downloads

       (5 reviews)

    0 comments

    Submitted

  19. FE Missions with Static Aircraft

    This is a small set of four missions for FIRST EAGLES featuring ground attack, and demonstrating the use of Static Aircraft to populate allied and enemy aerodromes.
    Instructions for creating the static aircraft, and Mission Notes are included.
     
    Missions by IndioBlack
    Static aircraft design by Paul Taylor

    460 downloads

       (2 reviews)

    0 comments

    Submitted

  20. Tridyed_Firecage Winter missions pack 1

    Ok a set of mission set for use with our winter terrain packs. Time and conditions already set for you ....
     
    They are mostly 12 v 12 missioon and soem have more bombers included as well. No small dogfights in my house
     
    Install to the missions folder and enjoy....

    386 downloads

       (1 review)

    0 comments

    Updated

  21. Second Marne / Hundred Days Offensive Campaign Pack

    This pack contains two campaigns for Third Wire Production’s flight simulator First Eagles: “Second Battle of the Marne” and “Hundred Days Offensive.” These campaigns portray events in the Verdun Sector during the German offensive and Allied counteroffensives between 15 July and 12 September 1918. Players can now begin their FE careers in mid-July rather than mid-September, covering the entire period when the USAS was equipped with the SPAD XIII.

    1,218 downloads

       (3 reviews)

    0 comments

    Submitted

  22. Zeppelin Hunters

    Five missions using Hinchinbrooke's splendid Zeppelin, all slightly different as I'm now finding my way with Kreelin's mission builder.

    939 downloads

       (0 reviews)

    0 comments

    Submitted

  23. 56 Squadron meets the Gothas

    Two missions, one by day and one by night, for 56 Squadron SE5a's to intercept Gotha bombers. These are the SPAD mission from the Gotha pack reworked.

    718 downloads

       (2 reviews)

    0 comments

    Submitted

  24. Albatros Missions for First Eagles

    The default Fokker missions, reworked to use the Albatros. Replacement files to make the Albatros and DFW flyable are included.

    791 downloads

       (2 reviews)

    0 comments

    Submitted

  25. Three missions for First Eagles

    These are simply three of the stock SPAD missions, reworked to give SE pilots something more to do.

    603 downloads

       (1 review)

    0 comments

    Updated



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