Changjin Lake: From Xinxingli to Seoul

Chapter 390 Wu Wanli: I have made the following adjustments to the deployment... A general offensive on the Han River!!!

Seoul, inside the UN Command Headquarters

"Report! Urgent telegram from the Han River front!"

Major General Allen led Delta Force...to a great victory at the Han River!

A U.S. military staff officer rushed in to report.

"say clearly!"

Ridgway looked up from the map, his sharp, azure eyes gleaming.

Deputy Chief of Staff Eckelberg and Chief of Staff Van Fleet immediately put aside their argument and gathered around.

In the corner, Chu Yunfei, dressed in an American-style advisor's uniform with stars on his epaulets, subtly straightened his back.

The U.S. military staff officer took a deep breath and said in a loud voice, "Yes, Commander-in-Chief!"
Major General Allen personally led the Delta Force to establish a position on the south bank of the Han River, successfully thwarting the large-scale crossing operation of the main force of the North Korean Sixth Army behind enemy lines!

The North Korean army launched a fierce offensive, deploying more than 30,000 troops!

However, our Delta Force, with its newly equipped firepower and sophisticated tactical coordination, dealt a heavy blow to the North Korean army!
When the main force of the North Korean army was in retreat, General Allen decisively ordered a full-scale pursuit to expand the victory and defeat the enemy's main force in one fell swoop!

If it weren't for the sudden appearance of Chinese Commander Wu Wanli and his 7th Steel Brigade, which provided artillery support to the routed North Korean army and gathered up the remnants, Delta Force would not have needed to withdraw to defend the south bank!

They are fully capable of completely eliminating the remaining enemy forces and pushing the battle line across the north bank!

In an instant, the news was like a bucket of cold water poured into a boiling oil pan, and the huge command center instantly boiled over!

The long-suppressed gloom was completely shattered by this good news.

"God! This is a turning point!"

"Delta! Well done! Let those yellow-skinned monkeys see what true elites are!"

"More than 30,000! More than 30,000 were routed! This is simply the Miracle of the Han River!"

The U.S. military staff officers excitedly waved their fists and patted each other on the shoulder; the wave of jubilation almost lifted the roof off.

Even the usually calm and composed Eckelberg couldn't help but slam his hand on the table, making the model on the sand table tremble: "Well done!"
General Allen lived up to expectations!

This proves that investing heavily in developing this sharp weapon was absolutely the right decision!

Van Fleet's wrinkles smoothed out, and he nodded vigorously, his voice booming: "Key combat force!"
This is the power that can truly stabilize the world!
The quality displayed by Delta Force today is enough to prove that they are fully capable of matching, or even surpassing, the so-called "Steel Seventh Brigade" of the Chinese!
We finally have a truly reliable iron fist!

He looked at Ridgway, his eyes gleaming with excitement: "Commander-in-Chief! The time is ripe for the strategic plan on the Han River battlefield!"

Now is the time to close the net!

Li Qiwei's tense lips finally relaxed, revealing a rare relaxed smile.

He looked around at his enthusiastic subordinates, and that long-lost sense of control over victory seemed to have returned to his grasp.

"Great! Excellent!"

General Allen and Delta Force demonstrated the might of the American military!
This proves that the previous plan to "lure the enemy in" now has the most solid foothold!
Order……"

Before Ridgway could give his orders, the lieutenant staff officer who had reported the victory stepped forward, his previous fervor replaced by solemnity.

"Commander-in-Chief! Fellow officers!"

There's more urgent military news to come!
After the Delta Force withdrew to the south bank to consolidate its defenses, the latest aerial reconnaissance confirmed that the 7th Steel Brigade, under the cover of its artillery fire, successfully gathered up the remnants of the North Korean army that had scattered on the north bank of the Han River!

The scale... it's quite large, with an initial estimate of over 15,000 people!

Wu Wanli integrated it with the main force of his own Steel Seventh Brigade, and the force now exceeds 20,000!

Currently, this mixed Chinese and North Korean force is moving aggressively along the north bank of the Han River towards the main crossing points of the Han River defense line!
The advance speed is extremely fast!

In an instant, the boiling air froze.

The flames of ecstasy were doused with a bucket of ice water, sizzling and emitting pungent white smoke.

The smiles on the faces of the US military staff froze, and they exchanged incredulous glances.

The vast space, which had just been filled with words of praise, was now filled with a heavy silence.

On the sand table, the area across the Han River seemed to be suddenly distorted by an invisible pressure.

Deputy Chief of Staff Eckelberg's brows furrowed into a deep knot, his voice filled with surprise and doubt: "Twenty thousand...and another fifteen thousand North Korean remnants?"
This...this is so different from the original plan of 'luring the enemy in deep'!
The original plan was to lure the vanguard of the Seventh Steel Brigade into crossing the river alone and penetrating deep into enemy territory!

We used our strong defensive line to block Li Yunlong's main force, divided them up, and then surrounded and destroyed the sharpest blade, the Seventh Steel Brigade!

But now, Wu Wanli has suddenly gained 15,000 cannon fodder!

How can we lure them in like this?
How to divide it?
How to surround it?
Should we just put this whole huge lump in?
Giving so many more troops, even if they were cannon fodder, to that brilliant Chinese commander Wu Wanli suddenly increased the risk significantly!

Upon hearing this, Van Fleet's smile vanished completely, replaced by the cold calculation typical of a veteran of the battlefield.

He stared intently at the suddenly swollen red arrow on the sand table, then looked up sharply, his gaze intense: "Even if we want to lure the enemy in, we can't release it like this!"

We must use it up properly!
Weaken them as much as possible before they cross the river and launch their final offensive!

Especially those North Korean soldiers who had just been decimated and were still in shock, they were the most vulnerable part of the entire mixed formation!
Order all forward long-range artillery and air power to concentrate their fire on the North Korean troop concentration area on the north bank! Scatter them! Terrify them!
Let them bleed their last drop in the Han River!

Once they reach the south shore beachhead, Delta Force and the 3rd Marine Regiment must hold the line like an anvil, repeatedly testing their strength!

Crush those North Korean scum!
Only let in the most crucial, the prey we truly desire—the Seventh Steel Squad!

"As long as Wu Wanli and his 'Steel Seven' are sent into the trap alone, even at the cost of 15,000 North Korean soldiers' lives, it's entirely worth it!"

Lieutenant Colonel Williams, who was in charge of liaison, exclaimed in a trembling voice, his face turning pale: "Exhaustion?"
General, time is probably not on our side!
According to aerial reconnaissance reports, the main force of the Eastern Front Assault Group, personally led by Li Yunlong, including the New Eighth Army and the Independent Guerrilla Division, is less than 30 kilometers away from the Han River!

They are marching at breakneck speed!
We wanted to wear down Wu Wanli's mixed forces in front of the Han River defense line as planned, but the window of opportunity was too narrow!
If we cannot achieve a 'key attrition' against the North Korean army in a very short time, Wu Wanli's vanguard will likely join forces with Li Yunlong's main force!

By then, they will have coalesced into a behemoth of over 100,000 elite troops.

To even think about carrying out the plan to divide and annihilate the Seventh Steel Brigade is just wishful thinking!

Our entire Han River defense line is at risk of being overwhelmed by a frontal assault!

These words were like a boulder thrown into a deep pool, causing even greater waves to erupt in the command center.

The U.S. military staff whispered among themselves, their faces filled with anxiety and the urgent pressure of time.

"More than 100,000 elite Chinese troops are pressing in... God..."

We have to hurry!

Before Li Yunlong arrives, let Wu Wanli's vanguard in, but then you'll have to wear down those damned North Korean soldiers!

"How could you do that in such a short time? Unless..."

Ridgway's gaze swept across the entire room like a searchlight, finally settling on Van Fleet's face: "Van Fleet! Time!"

Based on the estimated shortest time it would take for Li Yunlong's main force to reach the other side, a plan is proposed to maximize the attrition of the North Korean army while ensuring the 7th Steel Brigade can be deployed as planned!

Van Fleet took a deep breath, his eyes sharp as knives, his brain racing under immense pressure.

All battlefield information—troop deployment, equipment performance, terrain limitations, enemy and friendly morale—instantly converged, collided, and were deduced in his mind.

Less than two minutes later, he slammed his fist into the location of the ferry crossing area on the north bank of the Han River on the sand table:

"Commander-in-Chief! Time is of the essence, we have no choice but to take a gamble!"
The core strategy was to exploit Wu Wanli's eagerness to cross the river and join forces with Li Yunlong, as well as the weakness of the remaining North Korean troops in terms of combat effectiveness, to use offense as defense and proactively cut off their supply lines!

He spoke very quickly, his fingers moving rapidly across the sand table: "First, on the front of the Han River defense line, there are about 25,000 troops, consisting of two main infantry regiments of the US 3rd Division and the reorganized troops of the ROK 2nd Division, relying on pre-established fortifications."

At all costs, we must withstand the powerful crossing attack of Wu Wanli's mixed forces!
The goal is not complete annihilation, but maximum damage, especially by concentrating firepower to cover the North Korean shock waves!

Second, I ordered Major General Allen to immediately lead more than 6,000 elite troops of the Delta Force to cross the river covertly from the shallows upstream of Seoul!

At the same time, the most mobile armored infantry regiment of the 3rd Division of the United States, with more than 4,000 elite troops and reinforced artillery, immediately joined forces with Allen's unit!
These eleven thousand elite troops were assembled into a mixed-arms iron hammer!

Third, the Iron Hammer mission: while Wu Wanli's main force is drawn into a fierce battle at the main crossing, to advance along the flank of the north bank of the Han River and directly into the rear of the remnants of the North Korean army!

There is only one goal—to completely crush, disperse, and annihilate these North Korean troops!
They have just suffered a major defeat and are in disarray, making them the Achilles' heel of the mixed-strength group!

Once the North Korean army is defeated, Wu Wanli's Seventh Steel Brigade will become a truly isolated force!

Fourth, once the North Korean army collapses, the Delta Force and the US 3rd Armored Regiment will immediately abandon the pursuit and retreat to the south bank!
At this time, the frontal defense forces should have been breached as planned, allowing the main force of the Seventh Steel Brigade to cross the river.

After the mixed Iron Hammer troops withdrew, they immediately pursued the Chinese Steel Seventh Brigade that had crossed the river from behind!

After allowing their vanguard to penetrate a certain distance, the frontal defense immediately closed off the breach again!

Meanwhile, the core area of ​​Seoul was defended by over 4,000 elite troops from the headquarters' guard regiment and military police, relying on the city's fortified buildings as a final stronghold!

At this point, Van Fleet's voice took on a desperate, feverish quality: "In this way, we achieved a triple objective at the cost of casualties on the front lines and high-intensity maneuver operations by Delta Force!"

First, they basically defeated the 15,000 remaining North Korean soldiers who were getting in the way.

Secondly, it successfully lured the Seventh Steel Brigade into the designated battlefield, while simultaneously cutting off their connection with Li Yunlong's main force behind them.

Third, with our overwhelmingly superior elite mobile forces, we have created a pincer movement against the Chinese Steel Seventh Brigade!

As long as the hammer formed by Delta Force and the US 3rd Division armored regiment can strike in time, and as long as the Han River defense line can hold off the follow-up attack of Li Yunlong's main force...

Wu Wanli and his China Steel Seventh Detachment were sitting ducks!

After these words were spoken, the command post was so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

The U.S. military staff held their breath, their eyes following Van Fleet's finger as it moved across the sand table, rehearsing this extremely risky plan.

Eckelberg pursed his lips, his eyes scrutinizing the troop arrows and pre-set routes on the sand table with a complex expression.

This plan was fraught with risk—the risk of Delta Force launching a surprise attack on the north shore, the pressure of the front line holding off 80,000 troops, and the precise timing of the withdrawal…

If any step goes wrong, the whole thing could be lost.

After a full half-minute of silence, Eckelberg let out a long breath, turned his gaze to Ridgway, and slowly nodded: "Commander-in-Chief... the risks are enormous, but... the logic is clear, and the objective is well-defined."

This might be the only opportunity we can seize, given the constraints of time.

He paused, looked at Van Fleet, and said with unprecedented seriousness, "Van Fleet, I agree to this plan."

On the front line, I will personally coordinate artillery fire and reserves to ensure that Wu Wanli's mixed forces bleed dry, especially those North Koreans!

Even Eckelberg, the deputy chief of staff who often disagreed with Van Fleet, agreed!
This silent announcement instantly changed the tense atmosphere in the command center.

Hope was rekindled in the eyes of the U.S. military staff, and their gazes turned to the final decision-maker—Ridgway.

Ridgway did not immediately express his opinion, but instead walked slowly to the huge floor-to-ceiling window with his hands behind his back.

Outside the window, the outline of Seoul appeared heavy and blurred in the night, with the faint flashes of gunfire on the distant horizon.

His fingers unconsciously traced lines on the cold windowpane.

Time, troop strength, space...

Van Fleet's plan is a double-edged sword; if used well, it can break the deadlock.

The slightest mistake could backfire.

Finally, Ridgway finished his consideration, turned around, and said with a sharp look in his eyes: "The plan is feasible, the key lies in the time difference and absolute execution."

Delta Force's raids must be lightning fast, crushing the North Korean army in one strike, and never lingering in battle!

A pullback must be decisive!

Frontline defense, Eckelberg, I give you absolute authority.

All supplies, firepower, and reserves will be given priority!
"We must build an ironclad defensive line between Wu Wanli's mixed forces and Li Yunlong's main force!"

Finally, his gaze fell on Chu Yunfei, with scrutiny and a hint of barely perceptible inquiry: "Advisor Chu, what is your opinion?"
This major battle concerns whether we can ultimately achieve our strategy of 'luring the enemy deep into our territory' under such a rapidly changing battlefield situation.

In an instant, all eyes were focused on Chu Yunfei.

Chu Yunfei was dressed in a crisp Nationalist Army general's uniform, the stars on his epaulets gleaming coldly under the lights, standing out starkly from the fervent atmosphere around him.

He stood up, met the gazes of Ridgway and the others, and calmly said, "Commander-in-Chief, generals."

General Van Fleet's plan was the most proactive and offensive adjustment that could be made based on the current sudden changes in the enemy situation.

They made the most of the enemy's weaknesses (the remnants of the North Korean army) and concentrated their own advantages (the elite and mobile forces of the Delta Force) to the greatest extent possible. Their objective was clear: to strip away the impurities and lock onto the core prey.

Its core essence is consistent with the strategy of 'luring the enemy deep into our territory, dividing and encircling them' that I previously proposed.

He paused slightly, his gaze sweeping over the symbol representing the Seventh Steel Brigade on the sand table, a complex light flashing deep in his eyes: "The battlefield is ever-changing, and opportunities are fleeting."

Hesitating now would be tantamount to watching Wu Wanli join forces with Li Yunlong.

General Van Fleet's strategy, though risky, was the only correct solution to break the deadlock.

"This humble servant...seconds so."

"it is good!"

The last trace of doubt in Ridgway's eyes vanished completely, replaced by the sharpness and decisiveness of a commander-in-chief in the final battle.

He turned abruptly, no longer looking at anyone, and said decisively:

"Give me the order!
First: The US 3rd Division, 2 regiments, and the ROK 2nd Division on the front of the Han River defense line should spare no effort to prevent the enemy's mixed formation from crossing the river!
Prioritize firepower to cover the North Korean army's shockwaves!
While ensuring the stability of the main body of the defense line, a weak section will be set up on the east side.

At 4:30 a.m. tomorrow, we will open a breakthrough for the enemy's main force of the Seventh Steel Brigade and let its vanguard cross the river!

The breakthrough must be maintained for at least 25 minutes!

Once the time comes, regardless of the enemy situation, the area must be sealed off immediately!
Anyone who disobeys orders will be subject to military law!

Second: Order Major General Allen to immediately lead the main force of Delta Force to secretly cross the river from the 'Kingfisher' shoal area upstream of Seoul within one hour!

The U.S. 3rd Division Armored Infantry Regiment and its reinforced artillery battalion, under the command of Colonel Brown, completed their river crossing assembly within thirty minutes of Allen's troops crossing the river!
The two units were combined into a single force, codenamed "Iron Hammer," under the unified command of Major General Allen!

"After crossing the river, the Third Iron Hammer Mixed Force will launch a high-speed infiltration and attack on the rear flank of the enemy's mixed formation along the hilly area on the east side of the north bank of the Han River!"
Objective: To completely defeat, disperse, and annihilate this North Korean army unit by any means necessary!

The operation is limited to three hours!
Three hours later, regardless of the outcome, we must immediately disengage and retreat at full speed back to the south bank!
There must be no delays!
Fourth: After the Delta Force and the Brown Regiment's Iron Hammer mixed forces withdrew to the south bank, and after the main force of the Steel Seventh Brigade was lured into the pre-set encirclement area on the south bank of the Han River as planned, a decisive attack was launched from their rear!
In coordination with the core defensive forces of Seoul, launch a pincer attack on the 7th Steel Brigade that has penetrated deep into the city, and strive to annihilate it completely!

Fifth: The core defense perimeter of Seoul will be constructed by my guard regiment as the final line of defense!
We must hold out for at least 48 hours until the mobile corps returns to reinforce or the main force on the western front arrives!
Sixth: Effective immediately, all available combat aircraft shall prioritize providing air cover and ground support for river crossing and assault operations!
Secondly, we must bombard and delay the advance of Li Yunlong's main force of the eastern assault group!
Blast a bloody corridor across the Han River for me!
This battle was crucial to the survival of Seoul, and even more so to the ultimate outcome of the Korean War!
All departments must spare no expense and strictly implement this policy!
Victory belongs to America!

"Yes, sir!!!"

Inside the command post, all the U.S. military officers stood at attention, their shouts echoing through the air.

.............................................

Meanwhile, inside the Eastern Front Assault Group Command Post

The tent flap was suddenly flung open, bringing in a night wind carrying smoke and cold air.

Kong Jie strode in, his body radiating a chill that seemed to solidify into frost, and shouted, "Old Li! An urgent telegram just arrived!"

The main force of the 6th Army behind enemy lines in Korea, numbering over 30,000, was defeated near the Han River!

Cui Yongnan of the Sixth Army led the 567th Regiment behind enemy lines, following strict orders from its Joint Command, to launch a general offensive against the Han River at 4:00 AM today, with the intention of forcibly crossing it!
As a result... they ran right into a tough nut to crack in the US military!
Intelligence indicates that this unit is well-equipped, with incredibly powerful individual firepower and precise, machine-like coordination!

Our comrades' troops were completely defeated in less than three hours, from the start of the crossing to their complete defeat.

That's over 30,000 people!

Only about ten thousand people were left to evacuate; their organization was completely in disarray, and they were being taken over by the Seventh Steel Brigade!

"Three hours?"

Commander Qin gasped, repeating the words unconsciously. He had fought tough battles and knew what it meant for over 30,000 regular troops to launch a strong attack on an open river.

Even if they were to run headlong into a pre-prepared reinforced concrete defense line, their willpower and manpower would be enough to sustain a protracted and fierce battle for a day and a night.

A crushing defeat in three hours?

This exceeded his understanding of battlefield resilience.

Ding Wei thought for a moment and said, "Old Kong, I always felt that defeating ordinary American troops was no problem, but defeating them so quickly is a bit strange."

Could this be some new elite unit of the US military?

Upon hearing this, Kong Jie pulled out another folded, mud-splattered supplementary report from his pocket: "This is a piece of the observation records made by frontline scouts at great risk."

This American military unit has a different style of helmet, and its arm patch is an equilateral triangle with a lightning bolt in the middle.

The weapons they carried were a wide variety, many of which I had never seen before.

Their firepower configuration is extremely tricky; it's not the usual squad-level suppression, but more like countless rapid-fire guns firing precisely in single shots!
During the charge, their formation was loose yet they supported each other, and during the retreat, their alternating cover was as smooth as flowing water, leaving almost no openings!
Even more terrifying is their battlefield awareness; as soon as the North Korean troops show any signs of assembling, their mortars come crashing down as if they had eyes!

This is definitely not an ordinary military unit!
This is a killing machine built with mountains of gold and silver and seasoned veterans of the battlefield!

Zhao Gang picked up the supplementary report and quickly scanned it under the flickering light, his expression growing increasingly grave: "Equipment is secondary."

Judging from the description, their tactical proficiency, individual skills, and battlefield discipline have exceeded our understanding of the upper limit of conventional U.S. military forces.

It seems the US has pulled out all the stops, even its most precious reserves.

Commander Wei stroked his chin, his voice low: "More than 30,000 men, routed in three hours..."

Even if our elite troops were to launch a hasty assault on the pre-established positions, the losses would still be substantial.

This elite U.S. military unit's reaction speed, firepower projection efficiency, and resilience are indeed unlike those of ordinary U.S. troops.

Their elite status is probably... probably no less than our own Steel Seventh Brigade!

The moment the words "Steel Seventh Brigade" were uttered, the air inside the tent seemed to grow even heavier.

That was the sharpest sword in their hands, the iron fist of the Eastern Front Assault Group that tore through the enemy's defenses.

A US military force comparable to the Seventh Steel Division?
Upon hearing this, Li Yunlong immediately glared and shouted, "What the hell is this elite force?"

I'm fighting against the elite!

Back then, when I led the New 1st Regiment, we were surrounded and slaughtered by that old devil Sakata's regiment. We were poorly equipped and outnumbered. Would you call that behind enemy lines?

Is this considered a desperate situation?
what's the result?
I destroyed Sakata's command post with a single shot, piercing right out of his heart!
Later, when they attacked Ping'an County, the county town was made of tofu, damn it.

The Japanese and puppet troops were heavily guarding the place, but I still managed to smash it apart with the help of the troops behind enemy lines!

Old Ding!

Are you saying that your 386th Independent Regiment is a pushover in northwestern Shanxi?

The Japanese launched a sweep and surrounded you with a large force. You fought head-on against a full-strength Japanese battalion in Wild Wolf Valley.

They fought to the last man in hand-to-hand combat, turning the Japanese battalion commander into a sieve!
Would you call them elite troops? They still managed to conquer them!

Ding Wei straightened his back, the solemnity in his eyes replaced by a deep-seated arrogance, and said in a deep voice: "Not bad! The bayonets of my Independent Regiment have not been dulled yet!"

Li Yunlong then turned to Commander Qin and Commander Wei: "Old Qin, Old Wei!"

Which of your 15th or 60th Armies didn't roll out of mountains of corpses and seas of blood?

On the Huaihai battlefield, Huang Wei's 12th Army Corps, Chiang Kai-shek's personal guard, was equipped with American weapons. Could they be considered elite?
They were still crushed by us in Shuangduiji!
Elite?

Screw the elite!

There is no elite force that cannot be defeated in this world!

No matter how tough it is, isn't it just about having better equipment and training harder?

How ruthless were the Japanese soldiers when they practiced Bushido?
They were still chased away like madmen by us!

His roar immediately inspired everyone present.

The gloom on Commander Qin's face dissipated, replaced by a long-lost battlefield excitement that had been ignited: "Commander-in-Chief Li is right!"

Damn it, don't let them fool you!
Even the hardest walnut has to be cracked open to eat the kernel!

Commander Wei nodded emphatically, his fists clenched so tightly they cracked.

Zhao Gang spoke up at the right moment, his voice steady: "Old Li's words are inspiring!"
Strategically, we must despise it and treat it as a paper tiger!

However, tactically, we must take this seriously!
The appearance of this elite American force proved that Ridgway had invested heavily, and the Han River defense line was by no means an empty shell like the one at Guli Fortress.

Comrade Wu Wanli had just taken over the temporary command of the routed North Korean troops.

The troop strength may appear to have increased, but if it is mixed and disorganized, its combat effectiveness may actually be affected.

Moreover, the deployment of the US military on the Han River will inevitably undergo significant changes that we have not yet fully grasped, due to the arrival of this elite force and the defeat of the North Korean army.

Ding Wei immediately chimed in, tracing the red circle on the map representing the location of the Seventh Steel Brigade on the north bank of the Han River: "Old Zhao hit the nail on the head!"

Wu Wanli's current position is both crucial and dangerous!

He gathered Cui Yongnan's more than 10,000 defeated soldiers, like holding a hedgehog in his arms—it looked big, but it was actually prickly.

Having tasted the sweetness of defeating the North Korean army, where will the US military focus its attention next?

Ninety-nine percent of the time it's the Seventh Steel Brigade on the front of the Han River!

Their new elite troops have just won a battle and are in high spirits. They will definitely cooperate with the front line to set a trap for Wu Wanli!

Therefore, we must hurry!

Li Yunlong's voice was resolute, his eyes flashing with a fierce light: "That's right, we can't wait!"
We can't give that old devil Ridgway time to set up his formation!

Relay Lao Tzu's order!

I. All armies of the Eastern Front Assault Group, except for necessary rearguard and logistical guard duties, shall immediately cease rest and replenishment!

Throw away all those jars and pots, and only take weapons, ammunition, and three days' worth of rations!

Second, the 27th Army will be the left vanguard, the 12th Army will be the right vanguard, and the main forces of the 15th and 60th Armies will follow closely behind!
Target: the other side of the Han River!
Run with the soles of your feet until sparks fly!

March quickly!
Make sure that the main striker can hear the sound of gunfire from across the Han River before dawn tomorrow!

Third, order the logistics and field hospitals to follow the troops and push forward at all costs!

Ammunition, medicine, and stretcher bearers—flow to Wu Wanli's position like water!
Fourth, send out all the reconnaissance troops!

"Once I figure out the Han River defense line, I'm going to take it down!"

"Yes!!!"

Upon hearing this, everyone present responded with a resounding roar of agreement.

The oppressive atmosphere in the tent vanished, replaced by a ignited, imminent fighting spirit.

....................................

Meanwhile, not far from the US Han River defense line, the temporary command post of the Seventh Steel Brigade...

There were no tents here; the command post was set up under a huge rocky crevice that had been mostly eroded by artillery fire and hollowed out inside.

The wind outside was biting cold, carrying snowflakes and gunpowder ash.

The light inside was dim and flickering, and the shadows of people were magnified and projected onto the uneven rock walls.

Wu Wanli had his back to the cave entrance and was looking at the map of the Heavenly Eye in his mind.

At this moment, Political Commissar Liu Hanqing walked over, his face showing a hint of excitement after exhaustion: "Wanli, as you instructed, the troops executed those who secretly fled halfway through the counterattack, and then set up camp for reorganization."

The reorganization of North Korean troops is now largely complete.

They gathered over 13,700 people, more than expected.

Wu Wanli didn't even raise his head, only letting out a soft "hmm" from his throat.

Liu Hanqing continued to report quickly: "As per your instructions, we have urgently transferred all the officers and soldiers who are fluent in Korean from various detachments of the brigade, a total of 320 people."

One hundred and fifty of the core combat personnel were dispersed and assigned to battalion and company levels, serving as deputy commanders or squad and platoon leaders, responsible for actual command and fire guidance.

Another 172 people were formed into a "battlefield training supervision team" to temporarily command this North Korean unit.

It has subordinate military police platoons and battlefield discipline inspection teams, which are attached to their regiment level.

The supervisory team has also been arranged, with personnel present at key points.

Wu Wanli thought for a moment and asked, "Perhaps those Korean soldiers were subdued by the force of killing deserters earlier."

But are those North Korean officers willing to take my orders temporarily?

Liu Hanqing nodded: "I'm willing to do either!"

One reason is your unparalleled reputation for victory; they don't want to suffer a crushing defeat and be held accountable, so they all want to fight alongside you to achieve victory.

One reason is that you hold the title of Honorary Vice Minister of the Ministry of Defense of North Korea, which is equivalent to the Honorary Vice Minister of National Defense of North Korea.

Although they held no real power, they were all people the authorities had to respect, so there wasn't much resistance from them.

"What is the combat capability assessment?"

Wu Wanli asked.

"The officers suffered heavy losses, the organization was in disarray, and the rank-and-file soldiers were still in shock."

It is impossible to restore the overall offensive capability in a short period of time.

However, given familiarity with the terrain, availability of fire support, and a clear objective, carrying out diversionary attacks, feints, or defensive positions using simple fortifications should not pose significant problems.

Especially after our people have effectively taken command, the resolve to execute orders is guaranteed.

Liu Hanqing said succinctly.

As soon as he finished speaking, a figure wrapped in a thick white cloak, with eyebrows and beard covered in frost, flashed in with a chill. It was Pinghe.

He deftly shook off the snow and strode to the map, not even bothering to catch his breath: "Report to the commander-in-chief, there is a major disturbance on the US military's Han River defense line!"
The focus is on the east wing!
Starting yesterday afternoon, the US military has been frequently active in its surface fortifications, with increased vehicle movements, and has also deliberately removed several conspicuous forward outposts.

Some of the minefield markings were also blurry, and even exposed several seemingly weak joints.

Our forward team observed that in the area behind them, especially on the main roads leading to Seoul, vehicle activity decreased unusually after nightfall.

To be honest, this doesn't quite fit the conventional logic of increasing troop numbers to strengthen defenses.

Gao Daxing's eyes lit up, and he leaned forward: "Oh? The weak point at the junction of the eastern wing?"

Isn't this just like a gift delivered right to our doorstep?

Yu Congrong rubbed his calloused hands together, a fierce look of eager anticipation on his face: "Commander-in-Chief!"
The weak point on the eastern flank discovered by the reconnaissance detachment looks like a good opportunity!

I led the artillery detachment forward, and Lei Gong's artillery barrage plowed me up several times.

Gao Daxing's assault detachment followed closely behind, tearing open a gap, and our Steel Seventh Brigade's main force wedged directly in from the east wing!

As for the west and the center, Lu ordered his North Korean comrades to launch a fierce attack to draw the enemy's attention!

Gao Daxing immediately chimed in: "Right! Break through on the east wing!"
As long as we can create an opening, with the speed and firepower of our brigade, we can strike right at the heart of their Han River defense line!
"The North Korean troops, knock loudly on the western door, the bigger the commotion, the better!"

Lei Gong didn't speak, but simply turned his gaze to Wu Wanli.

Inside the command post, a sense of urgency permeated the air, a feeling that "opportunities are fleeting."

The staff officers of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army looked back and forth between the map markings of Pinghe, the excited faces of Yu Congrong and Gao Daxing, and the calm profile of Wu Wanli.

After observing the map in his mind, Wu Wanli immediately said, "The eastern flank is weak?"
Pinghe, the so-called 'weakness' you discovered may be the 'weakness' that the US military wants you to see.

Intentionally exposing the joint, reducing surface activity, or even creating a false sense of chaos... this is bait.

A classic case of 'opening the door to let in thieves'.

If I'm not mistaken, the elite American troops that just ate the North Korean army are lying in ambush behind the central positions of the Han River defense line!

When our main force is bogged down on the eastern flank, we'll deliver a fatal blow from the flank and rear!
Meanwhile, the US military must have prepared a powerful counter-attack reserve force behind what appears to be a weak junction on the eastern flank.

"Once we're inside, the pockets will be tied up immediately!"

These words were like ice water poured over their heads, instantly calming Yu Congrong and Gao Daxing down, and even sending a chill down their spines.

When they looked at the "weak point" on the map again, they felt it resembled a silent, grinning, gaping maw.

"Commander, then we..."

Gao Daxing hesitated for a moment.

Wu Wanli's gaze swept over everyone, and he said decisively, "Let's turn the tables on them. The US military wants to lure the enemy deep into their territory, so I'll give them a major breakthrough in the center!"
Hanqing, please take note of the following adjustments I've made!

1. Lei Gong, you command all artillery pieces of the artillery detachment to immediately advance to their pre-set positions!

The core of the firepower preparation covers the enemy's central defensive line forward obstacle zone, known heavy machine gun nests, and anti-tank gun positions!

After the first round of rapid fire, extend the coverage to the three enemy reserve areas that I will mark for you later!
Pay special attention to the edges of depressions!

Pour steel and fire into it!
Shoot out any potential fangs they might have! Cover the assault!

Second, Gao Daxing, your assault detachment will follow the armored guard battalion that I personally lead!
At the moment the artillery fire spread, launch a frontal assault from the center of the defensive line!

Objective: The core position in the center of the Han River defense line!

Don't worry about the flanks then!

Follow me and drive it in like an awl!

Open and consolidate the central breakthrough!

Third, Yu Congrong, your fire support detachment, follow closely behind my armored guard battalion and Gao Daxing's assault detachment, consolidate the breakthrough point, and clear out the remaining firepower points!
Pay special attention to anti-tank teams and snipers!
At the same time, depending on the situation, some mortars and heavy machine guns can be deployed to support the North Korean forces!

Fourth, Hanqing, you immediately coordinate with the reorganized North Korean troops!
Their mission changed: instead of a feint attack on the western flank, they were to launch a full-scale assault on the eastern flank of the US defense line, with regiments as units, at all costs!

We must fight hard! We must fight real!

Keep the enemy's attention, especially their reserve counterattack forces, firmly focused on the east!

Fifth, Pinghe, your reconnaissance detachment has been split in two!
A small number of scouts, carrying radios, can be sent to the high ground on the flank of the central breach to closely monitor the battlefield, especially the area in the depression!
Report any unusual activity by enemy reserves, especially that 'Delta' unit, immediately!
Another unit, as the main force, was deployed to reinforce the North Korean troops, guiding their attack under the banner of the Seventh Steel Brigade, while simultaneously keeping a close eye on the supervisory teams and discipline.

"Remember it!"

Liu Hanqing looked at the shorthand notebook in his hand and said.

"Go down and carry out the orders. I hope the general offensive on the Han River will begin on time in half an hour!"

Wu Wanli said with piercing eyes.

"Yes!!!"

Upon hearing this, everyone immediately responded in unison.

(End of this chapter)