The task started out simply enough.... I heard a call for an M3 to take troops to capture a dead Vehicle field. Just as I responded, I noticed someone else had also responded and was already on the way. OK, I'll take a backup M3, just in case.
So I set off, following the other M3 after spawning at the NW spawn point and made full speed. This wasn't going to be as easy as the last capture I had just done.... the red dar-bar indicated enemies in the sector this time so I was keeping a sharp lookout for any enemy fighters on the way. Sure enough, before too long, two fighters showed up and I jumped to the turret gun to be ready to defend myself and my troops!
Some friendly aircraft were also around and engaged the enemies.... all the time watched by me from extremely close by as my M3 continued to head for the field.... there were times when they came within 1K of me, and I was sure I would be seen and attacked before too long... however, I resisted any temptation to fire at them - after all, if they haven't seen me, I would only be attracting their attention!
So, on I went.... quickly glancing ahead to check the way was clear, then looking back towards the fighters - dam, they've killed the friendlies, now they'll come for me, for sure.... yep, here they come..... ready with the gun.... they flew straight over the top! Surely they've seen me now.... maybe they are just positioning themselves to attack from two sides... yeah that's it.... no... no.... they are definitely going away from me.
The vehicle field is now getting close. I give the command for all of the troops to jump out in quick succession at my order, and open the door. The vehicle field is smoking well, and it's difficult to see the fighters flying above - hopefully the reverse will be true! OK, better start slowing down, I don't want to crash!
Still peering through the smoke I finally see the map room bunker ahead of me.... OK, just a bit nearer.... I drive as close as I dare to the maproom, almost going through the door and give the command for the troops to exit - all the while watching the fighters above through the smoke, hoping I wouldn't be seen.... the troops all make their way in and "Map room destroyed" flashes across my screen! Yes! Confirmation of the field capture follows as I quickly end the mission with a mad dash to the tower, all the while my heart pounding with excitement.
OK, it was a simple capture of a vehicle field.... but for about 15-20 minutes it was real.... I felt like I was really there and not just sitting in front of a computer screen - most immersive experience I have had so far in AH - but I'm sure it won't be the last... just wish I'd filmed it!
