ASL – Orange Blossom: The Royal Canadian Regiment's Capture of the Cider Crossroads

Orange Blossom is an Advanced Squad Leader (ASL) scenario pack focusing on the actions of the Royal Canadian Regiment during the Moro River campaign and the advance toward Ortona, Italy, in December 1943. The pack was designed for participants of the 2024 Canadian ASL Open (CASLO).

The scenarios depict the Canadian advance toward the vital Cider Crossroads (Villa Grande Road junction), a key objective on the road to Ortona. The scenarios may be played individually or linked together as a mini-campaign.

Game System
The module is designed for Advanced Squad Leader, the standard tactical system for WWII squad-level combat.

The scenarios emphasize infantry assaults supported by Sherman tanks, attacks against fortified German positions, and combat through orchards, vineyards, and narrow road networks typical of the Italian Campaign.

Included Scenarios

OB1 – West of the Cider Crossroads
Italy, December 18, 1943
The 48th Highlanders of Canada launch Operation Morning Glory and attack German defenses to seize the Villa Grande Road junction.

OB2 – Orange Blossom
Italy, December 18, 1943
The Royal Canadian Regiment advances along the railway toward the strategic crossroads but encounters fierce German resistance.

OB3 – Cider Crossroads
Italy, December 19, 1943
Canadian forces attempt to consolidate their gains and secure control of the crossroads area.

OB4 – Cider Crossroads
Italy, December 19, 1943
The Royal Canadian Regiment must withstand repeated German counterattacks to retain the newly captured position.

Objective
The scenarios recreate the historical fighting that led to the capture of the Cider Crossroads, a crucial step in the Canadian advance toward Ortona. Objectives focus on capturing and defending key terrain, breaking fortified positions, and maintaining critical lines of communication.

Players
2 players

Playing Time
Approximately 3 to 5 hours per scenario depending on the engagement.

Complexity
Medium to High

Especially suited for players who enjoy infantry-and-armor cooperation and Italian Campaign operations.

Replayability
4 standalone scenarios
1 linked mini-campaign
Armor, fortifications and counterattacks
Excellent balance between attack and defense.

Components (indicative)
4 ASL scenarios
1 linked mini-campaign
Historical notes
ASL-compatible materials.