Chapter 255: Fifty-Five
The soldiers of the Hechingen Brigade were working tirelessly to build fortifications around the town of David Wright. They used military shovels to create trenches, barbed wire, and sandbag defenses. David Wright was now surrounded and fortified, almost resembling a hedgehog.
The Hechingen Brigade, with its academic background, took a meticulous and rigorous approach to building these fortifications, impressing Robert, the commander of the neighboring Prussian forces. Robert couldn't help but comment on the thoroughness of their work and how the Hechingen Brigade seemed to be going to great lengths to fortify the town.
However, Robert's deputy reminded him that, as attackers, the Prussian forces should not prioritize fortifications to the same extent. He argued that the Prussian forces, being superior in numbers, were likely to take the initiative to attack rather than defend passively.
Meanwhile, Leopold, the commander of the Hechingen Brigade, was also puzzled by the extensive fortifications. He questioned Heinrich, one of his officers, about the need for such elaborate defenses.
Heinrich explained that their approach was based on their training and experience at the Hechingen Military Academy. He emphasized the importance of minimizing casualties and safeguarding the lives of soldiers by constructing effective fortifications. Leopold acknowledged the reasoning behind this approach.
While both Leopold and Robert had their reservations, they recognized the importance of adapting to the changing battlefield conditions and making the best use of their respective forces.
The chapter also introduced the French Fifth Army under General De Fay, which was tasked with facing the Prussian Fifth Army, commanded by Kirchbach, in the upcoming battle. General De Fay discussed his strategy for countering the Prussian forces and emphasized the need to outmaneuver the enemy instead of engaging in a frontal assault.
The French Fifth Army embarked on a surprise attack under the cover of darkness, targeting Stanley, which was defended by the Prussian Fifth Army. This attack served as a feint to draw Prussian forces to Stanley, while the main French force, along with the Fifth Cavalry Brigade, headed for Saverna. Saverna would become a focal point in the upcoming battle between the two Fifth Armies.