I have been playing flames of war since version two was released, so many years ago. I had hesitated buying into the game, as I was heavily invested into micro armor and 20mm skirmish gaming. However, I always looked at the miniatures and thought they would look great to game with. I did not like the original FOW rules, so I was able to keep my wallet in check. However, once V2 came out, most of my issues with the rules had been fixed. However, I still resisted taking the plunge (along with a number of my biddies). One day I saw the FOW Africa Korps army box set on sale at my FLGS. I rationalized that I did not have any Africa forces, so it would be a way to dabble into the game and keep my other scales going… Well, a dozen armies later and I am finally getting back to actually painting that original purchase!
The tanks and SP artillery were actually an early attempt to find the right German yellow in Europe, for 15mm. I painted the base colors on these some years ago and let them sit. I felt that it turned out a little too yellow for my taste and moved into another direction. However, I was happy with the effect for desert, so I went back and finished these vehicles up for desert.
The airplanes are both pre-painted models. The Stuka is a Corgi Kit that comes completely assembled. The ME-109f is an old Airfix model. This was a series of kits that came pre-painted, but required assembly. I purchased almost all the models in the line, as I liked the look and prefer to have actual 1/100 scale airplanes (not the underscored 1/144 scale that Battlefront sells). All I had to do was assemble the model from the box and it came out great. You can still find these on eBay occasionally.
The infantry forces are from the original box. I put together three platoons (two grenadier and one engineer). I added some ATRs and a light mortar from Battlefront direct (I misplaced two mortars, so now need to repaint those…). The gun crew is also from the original set. I used the original guns for something else, so need to paint up replacements. For now, I have some 20mm AA guns (with will their own crew later).
I went with a primary green uniform on all the troops with some tan bits added here and there. All the helmets and most of the caps are also painted tan. I considered going with a much lighter shade of tan on the hats (which might still happen), but thought I would try the Tamiya tan first.
All the bases are pumiced with Vallejo back and dry brushed up (I had based one platoon a long time ago and wanted to match the colors). With the new Pumice, one can go straight to tan…. A couple of tufts to add some character, Dull Coat and I have a basic force that I can use in desert battles (it just took a decade).
- Manteuffel