The 2 Half-Squads: Advanced Squad Leader Podcast

Episode 389: Sledge Sisters Ride Again

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 18:07:16 -0500

Summer is passing quickly and we are celebrating the 250th celebration of the birth of the United States of America! We read some letters and are glad to welcome Mike Ryzy back into the Broadcast Foxhole. What we have been playing lately covers Mike's cow scenarios, and Dave and Dave's playing of Scenario BFP-174 The Castle of Onega. In the rules segment we cover the ever important rules D12 and D15 (part one, to be continued in episode 390). Did you know that sledges have reindeer pulling them? How cool is that!?! We think that you need to learn to drive your motorcycle like Steve McQueen in the Great Escape! So have a listen to this show. You will be glad you did.

How about that comedy bit? Thank you to Dennis, once again!

SHOW LINKS

Alpenfestung

WWII Wayfinder on Youtube

SHOWTIMES
00:01 Comedy Bit
02:00 Banter
11:00 Letters

17:00 What Have You Been Playing Lately?

24:00 Rules
52:12 Total Running Time

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Episode 388: Bishops Take on Tanks Two

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 13:20:51 -0500

Once again, we are super excited to bring back one of Advanced Squad Leader's best contributors, Jim Bishop. Jim will discuss the in-depth look at his newest article on Tanks in the latest Journal. You will learn how to use tanks to sleeze freeze other tanks, how to win the gun duel, what factors to check before the game to help secure your well deserved victory, and many other things about armored warfare in ASL.

No banter today. Well it is at the end.

SHOW LINKS

Bishop Says on ASL Academy

Jim's Astrophotography

SHOW TIMES

2:00 Jim Bishop Interview

45:15 Total Running Time

This show is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions and our Patreons!

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 387: The Bishop Returns

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:59:54 -0500

We are super excited to bring back one of Advanced Squad Leader's best contributors, Jim Bishop. Jim will discuss the current status of his blog, his thoughts on the process of scenario design and his part in holding tournaments with Fortenberry. He will return on the next show for an in-depth look at his newest article on Tanks in the latest Journal.

First, we have some banter about Space Food Sticks and Tang and other oddities while giving a sneak peek at some Swag from the next Grumbler Jones Tourney.

SHOW LINKS

Grumble Jones Blog's New Look

Bishop Says on ASL Academy

SHOW TIMES

2:00 Grumbler Swag Gifts and Tourney Slide Show

10:00 Too Much Banter Perhaps

15:40 Jim Bishop (The Good Part)

40:38 Total Running Time

This show is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions and our Patreons!

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 386: Bring a Dead Friend

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Mon, 1 Jun 2026 13:33:41 -0500

If you are ever in the Chicago area, you might want to lunch at Big Ange's. We love their BBQ. Letters includes the usual variety of topics including VASL help, historical facts, compliments and criticism.
Mike Ryzy joins us for part of the show (recorded last time). What we have been playing lately are Scenario BFP-161 Red Ice and BFP-169 Last Minute Heroics.

BFP-162 Red Ice Early in the Game

SHOW LINK

Big Anges Eatery

A Time for Trumpets Book

Angel Down on Wikipedia

Fun With Boxes

SHOW TIMES

0:1 Banter

11:00 Letters

24:30 What Have You Been Playing Lately?

48:17 Total Running Time

This show is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions and our Patreons!

BFP-169 Last Minute Heroic End Game

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 385: A17.309, Three Scenarios and a Board

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Wed, 20 May 2026 15:12:29 -0500

Mr. Donovan has provided the opening song and we would like to thank him for it! Where is that rule??

In our rules segment we cover rule D8: Immobilization and Bog. Break out your beanies, we broke ours. Listen to the rules. It might help you remember. In the Box is Winter Offensive Bonus Pack 17.

SHOW LINK

WO #17

Angel Down on Wikipedia

SHOW TIMES

0:1 Parody Song A17.309

4:15 Intro and Chit Chat

15:00 Rules

43:00 New Product Announced

46:30 What's in the Box

54:01 Total Running Time

This show is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions and our Patreons!

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 384: Mighty Martin Vicca

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Wed, 6 May 2026 18:06:00 -0500

Martin is in the wonderful suit.

Time to get back to an in depth interview with a famous Advanced Squad Leader player. That player is the marvelous and mighty Martin Vicca! He gives us a view from Aberdeen Scotland all about ASL, his history, his thoughts and opinions and his contributions to the Greatest Game in the World!

SHOW LINK

The Inversnecky Cafe

SHOW TIMES

0:31 Jump Right into the Martin Vicca Interview

51:44 Total Running Time

This show is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions and our Patreons!

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 383: We'll Be Dead . . . All Good!

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 2 Apr 2026 18:28:00 -0500

In the box is From the Cellar Pack #10 from LFT, and we take a double take at Advanced Squad Leader Journal 16 from MMP. We banter a bit about fretting over things and living a life well played, as Mike Ryzy joins us once again.

SHOW LINKS

From The Cellar #10 at Ritterkrieg

SHOW TIMES

01: Chit Chat

8:35 What's in the Box? Cellar #10

17:50 What's in the Box? Journal #16

46:00 Total Running Time

This show is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions and our Patreons!

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 382: It's Time for Rules...Changes

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 20:04:00 -0500

Join us for a detailed look at Journal 16 from MMP, a Journal about the greatest game in the world; Advanced Squad Leader. Most of our time spent here today will be used to discover the new rule changes to the game. This is BIG STUFF folks! Dennis Donovan provides the artistic flourish that we need to end the show, by graciously providing us with a Box Art Review.

SHOW LINKS

None Today

SHOW TIMES

01: Chit Chat

8:35 What's in the Box? Journal 16

38:00 Box Art Review

45:36 Total Running Time

This show is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions and our Patreons!

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 381: You Gotta Have Faith

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 5 Mar 2026 13:29:00 -0600

A detailed look at the in and outs and frozen chaos of Le Franc Tireur's Task Force Faith, is the main topic of this show. We give you a detailed look at the rules, terrain and designer notes of said game. We cover the notes, so you don't have to.

Dave gives us a look at Scenario BFP-159: Machine Gun Alley from Mannerheim Cross

SHOW LINKS

Buy TFF at BFP

SHOW TIMES

01: Chit Chat

8:35 What's in the Box? Terrain Time

38:00 What Have You Been Playing Lately?

49:36 Total Running Time

BFP - 159 End of Game

This show is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions and our Patreons!

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 380: We Schwear We Love Schuerzen

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:52:00 -0600

From the frozen depths of the Midwest, we present our chilly show (but hopefully not to a chilly reception). In this episode we cover Rules D10 Wrecks and D11 Gyro Stabilizers and Schuerzen. We schwear
we do! Honest! Put on your beanies, grab a warm cup of cocoa and join us.

SHOW LINKS

None today maybe none ever again? Do any of you click them?

SHOW TIMES

01: Chit Chat

6:35 Rules D10 and D11

38:30 Total Running Time (still trying to stay under 45:00 minutes, and still slightly overachieving)

This show is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions and our Patreons!

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 379: The Grain Looks More Grainy

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Mon, 9 Feb 2026 17:00:00 -0600

Mike Ryzy joins us once again! What we have been playin' lately includes Mike playing ASL again with his friend online. Dave K recounts his playing of Scenario BFP 155- Stalingrad Reds from Mannerheim Cross. In the box is Action Pack 20 which has a large variety of scenarios and one map #98. Action Pack 21: Blitzkreig to Paris with many maps. Mike also provides a look at the rules changes from Journal 16.

SHOW LINKS

None Today

SHOW TIMES

01: Chit Chat

7:20 What Have You Been Playing Lately?

17:35 What's in the Box?

32:00 Total Running Time

End Game the road hexes on left held

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 378: Vehicles as Cover for Our Not Wearing Pants

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 8 Jan 2026 16:33:00 -0600

Welcome to the 2026 version of The 2 Half-Squads. The 2026 version is pretty much the same as the 2025 version only with new Rules and Box Art and such. This episode includes some very nice and thoughtful letters to welcome in your new year. What we have been playin' lately is a Frostgrave Game, and Scenario BFP 154- Little Tin Can Opener from Mannerheim Cross. Brush up on your Rules as we cover Rule D9 Vehicles as Cover.

SHOW LINKS

None Today

SHOW TIMES

01: Chit Chat

7:20 Letters

18:15 What Have You Been Playing Lately?

23:00 Rules

Photo by Louis Padol

44:00 Total Running Time

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 377: A Maresca Medley

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 16:11:00 -0600

We jump right in to a wonderful interview with Vincent Maresca. He has made great contributions to the world of Advanced Squad Leader. As the Author of "Fifty Shades of Black" and "Me Ne Frego: the Italians in ASL, he has written two of the best and most thorough articles ever found in Banzai. One discusses various SS options and the other Italian ones. Along with Carl Nogueira, he has worked extensively on the upcoming Spanish Civil War Module. We know you will enjoy this one. As well as the opening medley by Dennis Donovan and the Two Half Squad Singers.

This show is the only one for December so it is a bit long, but you can listen in parts.

SHOW LINKS

Banzai 19.1

Banzai 25. 2

SHOW TIMES

01: Christmas Medley Song

3:50 Interview with Vinny

Photo by Louis Padol

100:00 Total Running Time

Rally Phase Records Presents!

A Holiday Medley (a parody)

Concept and Lyrics by Dennis Donovan

Performed by The 2 Half Squad Singers

Lyrics are posted on the Youtube version

which has some fun photos. Check it out.

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 376: Where We Say the Quiet Part Out Loud About J15 and ATT

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 17:20:00 -0600

Banter includes a bit about Halloween and a Trip to the Kenosha Civil War Museum to hear author and
historian Lance Herdegen discuss his new book Opening Manassas. What we have played lately is Scenario FT206: FDL Chaung. And a little D&D. Some letters from listeners are read. In the Box is Journal 15.

And we wrap things up with a little Box Art Review of the cover of Journal 15.

Rally Phase Records Presents!

A.T.T. (a parody)

Concept and Lyrics by Dennis Donovan

Mixing Mark Shontz

Music by Blind Squirrel

(Drums - Mark, Bass Guitar - Ray,

Lead Guitar - Kevin, Vocals - Dennis)

Oi, Oi, Oi

See me calculate To Hit Rolls

on my QRDC Screen

Want the best shot I can get

If you know what I mean

Target type is on the left you see

and the range is on the right.

Ain't got no Acq. No Bore sight

Base is 7 right?

There is no TEM on To Hit right?

ATT is the target type.

ATT Firepower is halved you know

ATT on the I.F.T. roll. div>

Concealed, LV that adds a +3

on the To Hit man, place a large Acq. on the target hex, understand.

So load up that ordnance, warm up those dice.

Recheck those numbers, then roll those dice, HE is coming down. Let's not mess around.

I'll use ATT as target type,

ATT Firepower is halved right?

ATT on the I.F.T. roll.

ATT - HE will explode

Oi, Oi, Oi

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

SHOW LINKS

Author of Opening Manassas
LFT Deluxe Pack

SHOW TIMES

01: ATT Song

3:50 Banter

4:00 Whatcha Been Playing Lately?
20:00 Letters

35:00 Box Art Review

48:45 Total Running Time

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 375: What We Reveal Will Make You Question Everything!

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Sun, 2 Nov 2025 15:11:00 -0600

What we reveal will make you question everything. Why are there so many ASL rules? Why is there
still banter on this show? When will it all end?

Be warned. The lack of surprising answers may shock you. But we do discuss our recent games of Stargrave, Frostgrave and a look at Dave and Dave's game of FT 205 SCRAGGY from Le Franc Tireur. We also take a look at The Song of Medusa Scenario by Scott Mullins. And we wrap things up with a little Box Art Review of the cover of Mannerheim Cross. This review was written by Dennis Donovan.

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

SHOW LINKS
Dave's Frost Giants Daughters Frostgrave Scenario

SHOW TIMES

01: Chitty Chitty Chat Chat

4:00 Whatcha Been Playing Lately?
17:00 Grumble Jones Medusa Scenario

24:30 ASL eOpen Announcement

35:00 Box Art Review

52:45 Total Running Time

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 374: Hooked on Swedish Inherent Crews

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:09:00 -0500

We are stunned to welcome the Marvelous Mike Ryzy and Indomitable Dennis Donovan once again as we try to recall the Inherent Crew rules. We have a Quiz Show/Rules segment covering Rule D5 Inherent Crews! We won't abandon you, so don't self-destruct folks, just see your counselor.

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

SHOW LINKS
None today

SHOW TIMES

01: Opening Song
2:47 Rules/Quiz Show

54:15 Total Running Time

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 373: Armor that Underbelly: Terrain Modifications to Anti-Vehicle Fire

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Wed, 1 Oct 2025 16:22:00 -0500

Once again we welcome the Marvelous Mike Ryzy and Indomitable Dennis Donovan as we jump right in with a Quiz Show/Rules segment covering Rule D4 Terrain Modifications to Anti-Vehicle Fire. Terrain benefits, hull down, height advantage, underbelly hits; we cover them all! With all that we decided to move the Banter toward the end of the show. We ponder the actual flavor of Red Velvet Donuts. Lastly their is a deep dive into the scenarios of Lone Canuck's Quick 6 Scenario Pack 2018

Theme song by Derek K. Miller of Penmachine.

SHOW LINKS
Great Campaigns of the American Civil War

SHOW TIMES

01: Opening Song
1:31 Rules/Quiz Show

28:00 Chit Chat

34:10 What's in the Box?

46:30 Total Running Time

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 372: The ASL Authorities Need to Investigate This!

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:51:00 -0500

It's a rip roaring show that will give you cause to open up an investigation of this terribly illicit and nefarious episode. That is most likely because we are joined by Mike Ryzy and Dennis Donovan!

Our letters segment begins a bidding war between listener's who don't want Parody Songs, and those that do! Please send us your bid. We accept Cash, services, and Patreon Donations.

We are highly recommending the two books, that we review. They are ANGEL DOWN and 60 DAYS IN COMBAT. In the Box we find Brick Works from Broken Ground and Drop Zone: Chef du Pont by MMP.

SHOW LINKS
George Hoitis ASL Mnemonics on Youtube

Joys of ASL PBEM

60 Days in Combat Book

Daniel Kraus - Angel Down

SHOW TIMES

01: Banter Chat
4:31 Letters

16:00 Book Reviews Angel Down and Sixty Days in Combat

28:10 What's in the Box?

39:00 Tournament Scene Update

42:00 New Advanced Squad Leader Products That are Coming to a Store Near You

46:30 Total Running Time

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 371: Make Room for Alan Hume

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Mon, 1 Sep 2025 17:36:00 -0500

Hello Fans, Friends, and Family,

We hope you enjoy the wonderful opening song by Dennis and Stephen Stewart.

The cool and collected Alan Hume appears on todays show and gives us a look at the Advanced Squad Leader scene in the UK.

Join us for this fascinating interview.

SHOWLINKS

Second Chance Games

.

SHOWTIMES
0:01 Counterstruck Song
3:50 Banter But Not Much of it!
4:43 Interview with Alan Hume
51:10 Total Running Time

Rally Phase Records ™ presents!

Counterstruck

To AC-DC’s “ Thunderstruck”

Concept & Lyrics: Dennis Donovan

Vocals & Mixing: Stephan Stewart

So I thought

In the middle of an ASL match (Counter!)

I looked ‘round

And I knew there was something I lacked (Counter!)

My mind raced,

And I thought what could I do? (Counter!)

And I knew

A named counter, I needed one too (Counter!)

One with MY name

I figured out

Getting ones tough

That tore me apart

I’ve been

Counterstruck!

Well maybe someday?

Nah, forget it, but then this went down:

Went to the Texas, Team Tourney and I saw me some

They had counters

Counter sheets with attendee’s names

They are so cool

They’re all 9-2s

Yeah, yeah they, they blew my mind

And I was shaking at the knees

I just could not believe

What an amazing find

I’ve been

Counterstruck

I was shaking at the knees

There was a counter of me!

Counter struck, Counterstruck, Counter struck, Counterstruck

It’s alright, I just got mine

It’s alright, I’m lookin’ fine, fine, fine……

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Episode 370: You'll be OVERRUN by James and Wethington

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 15:21:00 -0500

We polish off the last of the interviews from March Madness in Kansas City with Jerry James and Phillip Wethington. They discuss their gaming history, habits and favorite opponents among much more!

SHOW LINKS

Cardboard Commander

SHOW TIMES
0:01 Song An Overun
3:00 Opening Conversation
9:30 Jerry James Interview
25:50 Phil Wethington Interview
41:13 Total Running Time

LYRICS to "An Overrun"

A couple of SERIOUS ASL guys!

Lyrics by Dennis Donovan, Performed by Megan Kleinschmidt and The 2 Half Squad Singers

I saw him at the open and my heart stood still 
I’ll do one one-one, an over run? 
I needed some CVPs and it fit the bill 
I’ll do one-one-one, an over run
Yeah, he’s on a hill , Yeah, an easy kill 
Went into hex G1 one-one-one, an over run
Knew not what I was doing, but I had to try 
I’ll do one-one-one, an over run 
The con-cept seemed easy, but my-oh-my . 
I’ll do one-one-one, an over run
Yeah, I had to try ... Yeah, it’s do-or-die ... Yeah, I love this rule. 
To do one-one-one, an over run
I declared one-one, an over run
 I’ll do one-one-one, an over run
I attacked with 7 FP and I rolled a 5
I did one-one-one, an over run 
Rolls like that are gonna get his guys
 I did one-one-one, an over run
Yeah, it went just fine ....Yeah, ‘till I hit that mine .....If ya get immobilized 
It’s half FP on, an over run
Yeah-yeah-yeah-yeah
An over run run
I did one-one-one, an over run.

<
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Episode 369: Richard Logan OWNS The 2 Half-Squads

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Mon, 4 Aug 2025 23:42:00 -0500

We are so glad to have Richard Logan on the show today. He discusses being in the reserves, ASL as a military training device, his gaming history, what he has been playing lately as well as his plans for designing scenarios. It is wonderful to hear from an "average" Advanced Squad Leader fan, who is anything but "average".

SHOW TIMES

00:01 Interview with Richard Logan

40:01 Total Running Time

SHOW LINKS

None Today

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 368: Shelling's Scandalous Sensational Shocker!

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 14:59:00 -0500

Another scandalous episode of shocking Advanced Squad Leader information. You won't believe what the Powerful Pete Shelling reveals on this show. Pete discusses many things ASL bur most importantly he discusses the latest from MMP, Slaughter at Ponyri. Want to see what Pete is planning on making and what he is currently reading, listen here. It is a shocker! We have yet to recover ourselves.

SHOWTIMES
0:01 Right into the Interview

54:10 Total Running Time

SHOWLINKS

Stalingrad Redux on ASL Scenario Archive

Walking the Battlefields Ponyri

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Episode 367: We Played ASL for 30 Straight Days and You Won't Believe What Happened to Us!

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Tue, 1 Jul 2025 17:30:00 -0500

Keven Adams

If you are quite certain that you want to miss the bantery discussion of Father's Day activities and Jeff's fishing trip, you can skip directly to minute 9 and get right into the interviews. Be sure not to miss the opening song though!

We are proud to present more or our March Madness 2025 interviews. Keven Adams discusses his scenario designs and ASL background, Sarah Sackett, and Aidan Hallman. These are the interviews that you won't want to miss.
Now that we think about it, why would you want to miss any of them?

SHOW TIMES
0:01 Song SMC's a Goner (lyrics below)

Aiden and Sarah

3:03 Banter
9:20 Kevin Adams Interview
36:00 Interview with Sarah and Aiden
49:10 Total Running Time

LINKS
Kulning
The Brickworks on Illuminating Rounds

RALLY PHASE RECORDS PRESENTS!!!

SMC's a Goner

Sung to the tune of Girlfriend In a Coma by The Smiths

Lyrics: D. Wallick, D. Donovan
Vocals: Stephen Stewart
Mixer: Jim, the Mix-Master Bera

Leader blew morale check, oh no! I know it's serious
He was already broken, ya know, I know it's serious

And do I want him to roll a wound check? No! Cuz you know,
I would hate anything to happen to him
No I don't want to lose him

Do you really think he'll survive?
Do you think he'll roll less than 5?
Duuuuuuuuude

SMC's a goner, ya know, I know it's serious
Bye bye, bye my buddy, Goodbye

There were times when I could have rallied him
'Cuz you know, it's not like he's a 10-2 and he just got a field promotion

Now he's taking the check, time to fret, And he rolled a 5 and he died.
Dooooooooh!
Let me whisper a few bad words, I know it's serious

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Episode 366: Meier's Stunning Reveal

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 20:06:00 -0500

You won't believe the stunning facts that Advanced Squad Guru Tom Meier reveals on this show. We considered making a whole lot of edits, but decided to leave the scandalous parts in, just for your wanton and scurrilous satisfaction.

What We Have Played Lately is Scenario FB17: Stalingrad Redux.

In the Box is March Madness 2025 Scenario Pack: Schnake Eyes! Check out the scenarios here.

SHOWTIMES
0:01 Small Talk
8:00 What's in the Box?

22:00 Contest Winner Announced

25:00 Interview with Tom Meier
47:00 What Have You Been Playing Lately?
57:42 Total Running Time

SHOWLINKS

Stalingrad Redux on ASL Scenario Archive

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Episode 365: Shocking News, Hot Snake Eyes

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Mon, 2 Jun 2025 15:52:00 -0500

Summer is fast approaching and so is the next episode. We just can't believe how fast time flies. Or how SHOCKING this episode is. Scott Mullins discusses how to track your ASL games, using the ASL Archive and other methods. Matt Zajak discusses his background and his campaign games with his buddies, as well as his favorite miniature ancients rule set, favorite Advanced Squad Leader tournaments and scenarios, basically all things ASL. Most importantly Matt discusses his travels to Russia and help with the Ponyri game. We even dare to chat about our wives (and it's all good).

Dave forgets that he has played 1,402 games so far.

How about that opening song? The lyrics were provided by Rob Banozic and the song was performed by The 2 Half Squad Singers. It originally appeared on #205

SHOW LINKS

Box Cars Again Blog

WWII Wayfinder on Youtube

SHOWTIMES
00:01 Song: He's Got Really Hot Snake Eyes
04:00 Banter
08:10 Scott Mullins

26:45 Matt Zajac
1:00:05 Total Running Time

REALLY HOT SNAKE-EYES

(to the tune of "Bette Davis Eyes"

Lyrics by Rob Banozic)

His rolls are always low

I've never seen 'em high

His dice are never cold

He's got really hot snake-eyes

He'll turn the MGs on you

You won't pass a check twice

It's cold as East Front snow

He's got really hot snake-eyes

And they'll break you, they'll crit-hit you

They're the bones that will defeat you

They're atrocious, 'cause he always gets the

Rolls that make the stacks crush

God! why do I always roll so high, he's got really hot snake-eyes

You like your +3 stone

The place to stand and fight

But all you do is moan

He's got really hot snake-eyes

He'll take a '1' shot on you

And roll those wicked dice

Until you give up, too

He's got really hot snake-eyes

They'll DM you, when he plays you

Trash your plan with the dice he loans you

They're ferocious 'cause he always gets the

Rolls that make the stacks crush

All the boys think it's just fine, to get really hot snake-eyes

And they'll break you, they'll crit-hit you

They're the bones that will defeat you

They're atrocious, 'cause he always gets the

Rolls that make the stacks crush

All the boys think it's just fine, to get really hot snake-eyes

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Episode 364: The News MMP Doesn't Want You to Know

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 15 May 2025 11:41:00 -0500

MMP does not want you to know about all the other games that exist in the world. We would never spend time on this show discussing games like Dungeons and Dragons, Settlers of Cataan, or Twilight Imperium, because we are such Advanced Squad Leader loyalists and Fan Boys. Or would we now?

In this very show, Jim Burris gives us an update on the St. Louis Tournament and what HE has been playing lately. James Treu gives us his gaming background and says hello. We also manage to read a few letters.

SHOWTIMES
0:01 Small Talk
8:30 Jim Burris

23:30 Letters

41:00 Contest Winner Announced
42:00 James Treu
47:39 Total Running Time

SHOWLINKS
Matt Quinton's Youtube

Matt Quinton's Discord

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Episode 363: Unbelievable Bombshell

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 1 May 2025 13:48:00 -0500

It's an unbelievable show with stunning bombshells dropping all over the show. We continue our interviews from March Madness with Rick Reinesch, who gives us a great insiders take on the new Mannerheim Cross as well as many other interesting tidbits.

Jeff DeYoung also graces us with an interview and we have a thoroughly enjoyable time hearing the bombshell that Jeff drops on us.

AMAZING!

SHOWTIMES
0:01 Small Talk
8:30 Rick Reinisch
40:00 Jeff DeYoung
55:30 Total Running Time

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Episode 362: Ponyri and Mareske

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 17:32:00 -0500

In the Box we find Slaughter at Ponyri. In this episode we take the time to have a first look at the components and the terrain rules included with this powerful looking game.

We continue our interviews from March Madness with Dave Mareske, who give us a great preview of the new March Madness 2025 Scenario Pack Snake Eyes, as well as many other interesting tidbits. On with the show!

Opening song is a new one, Minimum Move!

SHOWTIMES
0:1 Song Minimum Move!
2:00 Interesting Chat
10:00 What's In the Box?
37:18 Interview with Dave Mareske
54:21 Total Running Time

Minimum Move
(based on Minimum Wage by They Might Be Giants)
Lyrics: Louis Padol
Vocals: The 2 Half Squad Singers

"Minimum Move"

SHOWTIMES
0:1 Song Minimum Move
2:00 Interesting Chat
18:00 After Action Report
45:00 What's in the Box?
1:03:40 Total Running Time

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361: DC Hero Works Best

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Fri, 4 Apr 2025 20:50:00 -0500

Dave made it to March Madness and all Jeff got was a lousy T-Shirt. Actually it is a cool T-Shirt of the Korean design. Dave got the 2025 T from Kansas City ASL guys that has all participants on the back as various leader or Hero counters.

There will be a lot of interviews in the show this year and we will start with Paul Works and Dan Best, who give us a great preview of the WWI game as well as many other interesting tidbits. On with the show!

Opening song was a repeat from episode 204, DC Hero.

SHOWTIMES
0:1 Song DC HERO
4:00 Interesting Chat
18:00 Interview with Dan Best and Paul Works
54:21 Total Running Time

DC Hero

-- Concept: Dennis Donovan
-- Lyrics: Dennis Donovan, Rich Spilky, Stephen Stewart
-- Vocals: Stephen Stewart
-- Mixing/Technical: Jim Bera

Playin’ ASL, in the P.T.O.

The Marines vs. Jappos, Code of Bushido
Read all the SSRs, and I started to scheme
Coming up with a plan, when I noticed something:

There is one DEMO, to blow stuff away
And with a gleam in my eyes, I knew I’d found the way:
There’s a Japanese private, in the Second World War
Wasn’t sure how to use one, but he knew for sure

That one DEMO, felt good in his hands
Didn’t take long, to understand
Just one DEMO, will beat the foe
But a one-way ticket, for DC heroes

So he did a banzai

No way he’d get dropped
With his H.E. man purse
Those Yankee Devils will be stopped!

By a DC Hero,
For Nippon he will die!
He’s a DC Hero
He’s got one DEMO,

DC Hero Yankees will die!
DC Hero
Yankees will die!
He won’t sur-vive this fight.

On a road without a name, out on Corregidor
There’s a Sherman Tank Dozer, stopped in hex G4
Yeah, this day is his last, filled with lots of pain
That one DEMO, gonna win the game

So he started chargin’
8 MF enough?
But if he gets wounded
Gettin to the target will be tough!

For a DC Hero
for Nippon he will die!
He’s a DC Hero
for Nippon he’ll die!
YEAH DC HERO
Nippon he’ll die!
That one DEMO,
Nippon he’ll die!
He’s gonna win
Gonna win tonight

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Episode 360: Mannerheim Steamrollin'

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 15:48:00 -0500

This is the moment that Mannerheim Cross is presented to the world! Bounding Fire Productions is bringing down the hammer with this one. In this episode we cover the contents of said game. The components and maps and such. The winner of Best of Friends 2 is announced also.

SHOW LINKS
Best of Friends on the Archive

SHOW TIMES

01: Bantero
12:01 Contest BoF2 Winner Draw

13:20 What's in the Box?

47:03 Total Running Time

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 359: Best of Friendly Fields of Fire 2

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 10:35:00 -0600

Thanks to Dennis for another roaring song parody to get this show off on the right foot. Reminding usto establish those fields of fire. Lastly we take a deep dive into Best of Friends 2 Advanced Squad Leader Scenario pack that brings us some of the fantastic work from our friends in Sweden.

SHOW LINKS
Best of Friends on the Archive

Mario's Dice Towers

SHOW TIMES

01: Song Fields of Fire (Lyrics by Dennis Donovan)
2:31 Bantero

39:00 Letters

40:10 What's in the Box? Best of Friends 2

54:06 Total Running Time

Fields of Fire Lyrics

So said the father to his son

“Cover the city on board one,

Same for the big hill to west

Whether in tournies or playtest.”

“Av’nues of approach you must scry

How else to make the en’my die?

Make sure to watch for fire lanes

And to play the bore sight game!”

“Cover the flanks

Against cavalry and tanks

Cover your front

With Fields of Fire!”

“Remember to pre-reg and deploy

Remember rout paths to destroy

Remember always play your best

Remember, ah, I forget the rest.”

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 358: eOpen Little PTO

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Mon, 3 Feb 2025 18:54:00 -0600

Get ready to play a lot of VAASAL during this years ASL eOpen 2025. We talk with Dave Goldman who explains how to sign up, how the tournament works and other details. It is one of the largest online tournaments. You can actually win some cash prizes! Register today. And Dave does a deep dive into Action Pack 14.

SHOW LINKS
ASLOPEN.ORG

SHOW TIMES

01: Song PTO (Lyrics by Dennis Donovan)
2:31 Interview with Dave Goldman

39:00 Another contest winner

40:10 What's in the Box? AP14

59:35 Total Running Time

Startin’ PTO, with a good friend of mine

It’s the Allies vs. Nippon, 1939

Been wantin’ to get play it now, yeah it’s finally time
We’re gonna bust it out, set it up, check it out, PTO

Wah-waaaah (Yeah, yeah, startin’ PTO) wa wah
Wah-waaaah (Yeah, yeah, learnin’ PTO) wa wah
Wah-waaaah (Yeah, yeah, playin’ PTO) wa wah
Wah-waaaah (Yeah, yeah, lovin’ PTO) wa wah
Wah-waaaah (We’re, doin’ PTO) wa wah

We’ll play it on the main lands, and the Pacific isles
Learning the Chapter G rules, it’ll take quite a while
All the HASLs and campaign games, really drive us wild
C’mon and bring it on, set it up, check it out, PTO

Yeah, I spent all my money, and bought the PTO

(buyin’ it up, sortin’ it out)
Got a Gung Ho and BRT, and then Code of Bushido

(openin' it up, checkin' it out)
Took it out to our club meet, for tell-and-show, yeah, yeah

(settin’ it up, layin’ it out)
Yeah, it’ the coolest thing around, tell your buddies it won’t let you down
We’re gonna bust it out, set it up, try it out, PTO

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 357: A Minuet With Bret

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 15:51:00 -0600

You can't have a better person than Bret Hildebran to come on the show. We are lucky enough to have
him grace the Broadcast Foxhole with his wisdom and insight as the Director of Advanced Squad Leader Oktoberfest Tournament in Ohio. It is the largest tournament in terms of ASL players in attendance.

SHOW LINKS
ASLOK.ORG

SHOW TIMES
00:31 Interview with Bret Hildebran

55:00 Bret draws the contest winner

57:31 Total Running Time

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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356: Hit the Starter Kit Beach

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Tue, 7 Jan 2025 18:28:00 -0600

Once upon a time, Kyle sent us a letter about playing Advanced Squad Leader Starter Kit Solitaire (or solo). Kyle plays both sides and he does not have a split personality. Although, in the picture to the right it does look like his defense has been frustrated by his own attack. Join us as Kyle reminds us why we like full ASL, other games, and most importantly why Starter Kit is so good, and why playing against yourself has it's virtues.

SHOW LINKS
None Today

SHOW TIMES
00:31 Interview with Kyle Beach

51:11 Total Running Time

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 355: Action Packed Sugar Tanks!

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 13:01:00 -0600

Happy Holidays All! Jump into the Broadcast Foxhole with us and hear a What Have You Been Playing Lately segment that covers Dave and Dave's game of Scenario FB 13: Don't Economize. What better way to enjoy the holidays than having a listen and sipping some warm cider along with that nice big bowl of Sugar Tanks. After that we open our present and find Action Pack 13 in the box. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanza and Happy New Year!

SHOW TIMES
0:02 Sugar Tanks Song
3:00 Banter
10:00 Letters
22:00 What Have You Been Playing Lately?

39:00 What's in the Box?

46:00 Total Running Time

SHOW LINKS
Sugar Tanks Video Game (they stole our idea)

Women's Sugar Tank Top (they also stole our idea)

The 2 Half Squads is brought to you by our sponsors Bounding Fire Productions and our wonderful Patreon and Paypal sponsors.

Lyrics to Sugar Tanks (lyrics by D. Donovan, performed by Aaron Kleinschmidt)

I Sugar, oh Tanky, Tanky

It's breakfast cereal, and you'll soon be wanting some.

Tankies, have lot's of sugar,

they taste like candy corn, and they look like Panzer II's.

You just can't believe the tastiness when when eating them.

You just can't believe the crunchiness when when eating them.

They are so crunchy oh, it's true.

Ah, Tankies, they're honey roasted, they are pure sugar dude and they've got some caffeine too.

Yummy Tankies, with extra sugar, they taste like victory. And they might have some nutrients too.

When you have a bite, you'll know how good these tanks can be.

Dump some in a bowl then pour some cold milk over them.

Pour a big bowl for me.

Pour a little cold milk on them buddy! Oh, Tanky, Tankies. Give them a whirl.

The views and opinions expressed on this show are not necessarily those of The 2 Half Squads.

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Episode 354: Guns Galore

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 5 Dec 2024 13:34:00 -0600

Getting this one done a bit late, but is it really better late than never? Mike Ryzy joins us in the podcast foxhole as we take a look at the Gun rules and Action Pack #13. The sound is a bit staticky at points so bear with us. Dave talks about the movie Red One and his upcoming Frostgrave game. He just never shuts up and he is a showoff.

SHOWTIMES
0:02 OBJECTIVE SCHMIDT Parody Song (lyrics by D. Donovan, Performed by the T2HS Singers)
3:34 Greetings and Chat about Earthquake Rules
10:20 Gun Rules
30:20 Dave Talks of Red One and Frostgrave Christmas Game
42:00 New Contest Announced (Entrants due by January 13)
31:50 Box Art Review
49:00 Total Running Time

SHOW LINKS

GI Joe Recoiless Toy

Frostgrave Christmas Scenario

Mannerheim Cross

OBJECTIVE SCHMIDT SONG

To the tune of “I Saw Three Ships”
Lyrics by Dennis Donovan, performed by The 2 Half-Squad Singers

Objective Schmidt is coming soon, by BFP for ASL
Objective Schmidt is coming soon, this news you can't be ignoring
It comes with 2 new HASL maps, of Vossenack and Kommerschmidt
And 18 new scenarios, one of which is a campaign.

There won't be a big magazine, just a booklet with some pages.
Of HSR's and CG stuff, and the historical background.
And what price tag will OS bring, one hundred clams? I'd gladly pay.
Which release date are you thinking? BFP we are imploring.

And all the souls on earth shall sing, on release day, on release day.
I hope it's what Santa will bring on Christmas Day in the morning.

Then let us all rejoice again when comes the day, when comes the day?
More new stuff from the three wise men, who sleigh us with all their new products.

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Episode 353: BGD, ASLOK and More

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:43:00 -0600

The ASLOK interviews continue with an interview with Alan Findlay of Broken Ground Design. Alan walks us through all of the amazing new products that are available. He gives us a super close up look. Thank you Alan. Remember to volunteer to playtest the Chaco Wars scenarios for Steve Swann and Alan. Box Art Review makes it's return featuring the art from Journal #14. We end with a brief look at a game that Bendis and Summers (they're famous) played at ASLOK.

SHOWTIMES
0:02 MASH Parody Song (lyrics by D. Donovan, Performed by The 2 Half-Squads Singers)
3:34 Greetings
12:00 Interview with Alan Findlay
27:00 Contest Drawing
29:00 New Contest Announced (Entrants due by December 13)
31:50 Box Art Review
40:45 Bendis and Summers Play at ASLOK
45:05 Total Running Time

M*A*S*H KOREA SONG
Lyrics by Dennis Donovan, performed by The 2 Half-Squad Singers

The Forgotten War is here you see
A new venture for MMP
It’s Post World War 2, you see
The Korean War in the ‘50s

[REFRAIN]:

In Forgotten War the scene is
The UN, ROKs and Marines

Versus the KPA and the Chinese

The Chosin Few designers know

They put into it heart and Seoul

If they screwed up module 15

That they’d be in some deep kimchi

There are new rules pages
Updated Chapter H is
Included with 16 scenarios

The 4 new maps have rough terrain

Which Chapter W explains
There’s 7 brand-new counter sheets

The jet aircraft are pretty neat

Forgotten War will cost us
About one hundred dollahs
And I will take three copies if you please

I brave man once asked Perry

To tell us “When will it ship, please?”
Is it to be or not to be
Why oh why ask me?

Did you see the new box?
Papyrus font really ROKs
and you can figure the rules out with some ease.

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Episode 352: ASLOK Take Two

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 7 Nov 2024 23:44:00 -0600

Hey, look what's in the mailbag! We got some letters, and we open the show with that. After a look at some cool technological advances in playing aids, Wai Wong and Jonathan Kay from Canada give us a look at ASLOK and their thoughts on all things Advanced Squad Leader.

SHOW TIMES
0:32 Banter
3:40 Letters
16:10 Latest ASL Gaming Aids
42:00 Interview with Jonathan Kay and Wai Wong
49:44 Total Running Time

LINKS

Victory Games on Youtube

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Episode 351: Wrong Way to Cincinnati

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 10:44:00 -0500

Don't take the wrong way to Cinicnnati. ASLOK's not there! ASLOK was near Cleveland, in Aurora,Ohio as a matter of fact. this show features two of our interviews from the tourney. The first is with Ed Beekman of the North Texas Shootout Tournament. Ed discusses his gaming background and the Northern branch of the ASL gaming groups. And he offers a copy of "A Fistful of Scenarios Pack" as a prize. Offer ends 11/15/2024. Dave Wiesanhahn joins us and gives us the scoop on the DC Conscripts.

SHOW TIMES
0:02 Song "Wrong Way to Cincinnati"
3:40 Banter
16:10 Interview with Ed Beekman

25:10 What Have You Been Playing Lately?

DC Conscripts Game Day

31:00 Interview with Dave Weisenhahn

51:51 Total Running Time

LINKS
DC Cosncripts

ASL North Texas Shootout

LYRICS by Dennis Donovan

The Wrong Way, to Cincinnati

Off to Cincinnati

Went some ALSOK noobs one day

They were chomping at the bit

and couldn’t wait to play.

Bringing ‘long ASL goodies

food and lots of beer

Till a wife she got frustrated

And said “Listen to me Dear!”

Chorus

Go to Cleveland, not Cincinnati

That’s the wrong way to go

Go to Cleveland, not Cincinnati

Re-read the directions, Joe!

Good luck, darling husband

Hope you make it there.

Don’t take the wrong, wrong way to Cincinnati

Because ASLOK’s not there.

Joe he sent a rebuff

To his wifey MaryJo

Saying, “Should we not quite make it,

I will let you know!”

“If I make mistakes in driving,

Mary, dear,” said he,

“Remember, it’s the map that’s bad,

Don’t lay the blame on me

Chorus

Go to Cleveland, not Cincinnati...

“We can’t seem to find ASLOK,

we must be close, you know?

Would you check on Google Maps

And tell us where to go?”

“Head northwest from Cincinnati

look for the hall of fame.

If you can get there in a hurry

You might have time to game!”

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Episode 350: Bout That Rate of Moving Guns

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Tue, 1 Oct 2024 14:19:00 -0500

Oh boy, have we got a show for you!

Not only do we bring back our special guest from last show, Mike Ryzy, but we also give you a great opening SONG with lyrics by D. Donovan and beautiful vocals by Megan K.

But that's not all! We also present a rip roaring edition of Quiz Show/ Rules that finishes rule C10. Would you believe that we have the usual and somewhat interesting BANTER?

Not only that, but we also provide you with a look at ASL Action Pack #18: Roads to Rangoon

SHOW TIMES
0:02 Song "All About That Rate"
3:40 Rules
40:10 Banter
47:30 What's in the Box?
1:02:20 Total Running Time

LINKS
They are in the write-up above. Look for the blue letters.

LYRICS
Because you know I'm all about that rate
'Bout that rate, no re-zid
I'm all about that rate
'Bout that rate, no cowers
I'm all about that rate
'Bout that rate, no malfing
I'm all about that rate
'Bout that rate...

Yeah, Rate of Fire’s, in A9.2
And I can make it, make it, it’s not that hard to do
'Cause I got that good luck, that all the guys crave
And all the right rolls in all the right phases

You’ll see my machine guns, workin' that R.O.F
You know my luck’s unreal, I just can’t make it stop
When I get lucky rate runs, I use ‘em up
By shooting up all your kill stacks from the bottom to the top

Yeah, my mentor he told me "Don't worry about the SAN"
He says, "Boys like a little more shooty in a fire fight"
You know with ordnance, guns and MGs I get rate with them all
So defeating you in two turns – won’t take very long

(Chorus)

I'm bringing shooty back

So many shots you’ll have a heart attack.
So, when we’re playing, I know I’ll squish you flat
But I'm here to tell you...
Gonna shoot up all your kill stacks from the bottom to the top

Yeah, my mentor he told me "Don't worry about the "SAN"
He says, "Boys like a little more shooty in a fire fight"
You know I will get a one on the colored die when I roll
Yo, just letting you know my rate runs can last all year long

(Chorus x2)

Because you know I'm all about that rate
'Bout that rate, no treble
Yeah yeah... ohh... You know you like this rate... Hey...

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Episode 349: It Came in the Mail

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Sat, 14 Sep 2024 13:40:00 -0500

Mike Ryzy brings the box for this show and he gives us a look inside Special Ops #12. Why Special Ops #12? Because it came in the mail. It has a new map and 4 scenarios (2 for Starter Kit), and a look at Jim Bishops article on the third die for R.O.F.

Rule C10 finishes off the show for today.

SHOW LINKS
Special Ops #12

SHOW TIMES
00:01 "ASL Edelweiss" Song
2:00 Much Chit Chat

12:00 Contest Winner Announced

13:00 What's in the Box?

29:00 Rules

49:43 Total Running Time

"ASL Edelweiss" Lyrics by Rich Spilky

Performed by The 2 Half Squads Singers

A-S-L, A-S-L, Every die roll enchants me

Rule book thick, games not quick, Line of Sight is no problem

Eight on the eight is an N-M-C, Will my morale sustain me?

A-S-L, A-S-L, Special ammo forever!

A-S-L, A-S-L, Please save me from slow players!

Wind and rain, brush and grain, Each board looks lovely to me

A two is good and a twelve is bad, Yet target types perplex me

A-S-L, A-S-L, Skulking safely forever!

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 348: Pleva Part Two

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Sun, 1 Sep 2024 15:14:00 -0500

Sleeze Freezer! An Advanced Squad Leader parody song replay from episode 180. It relates well to the Heretical rules Sleeze Freeze rule rewrite from last episode. From part one of the Pleva interview. This show presents part two of said interview. Enjoy!

SHOW LINKS
None today

SHOW TIMES
00:01 "Sleeze Freezer" Song
4:00 Steven Pleva Part Two

59:07 Total Running Time

"I'm a Sleeze-Freezer" by Jim Bera and Dennis Donovan (not The 2 Half Squads Singers).

Victory is only true in fairy tales,
Earned by other guys, but not by me
Luck was out to get me. That's the way it seemed.
When I play Squad Leader I get creamed

Then I saw that page About our pet peever
It's D2.3, and it's quite the find
VBMmmmmmm, it's called sleeze-freezing But its not cheating, lighten up guys

I thought "maybe I should try a different game."
Seems the more I played, the more I lost.
What's the use in tryin'? I'll get crushed a-game.
When I need a victory, I get slain.

Then I read that page, now I'm a sleeze-freezer
Not a trace of shame in my mind
VBMmmmmmmm, I'm a sleeze-freezer I'm not a cheater, lighten up guys

Aaaarg. Luck was out to get me.
Well that's the way it seemed.
Disappointment haunted all my games
But then I used that rule, now I'm a sleeze-freezer
Not a trace of shame in my mind.
Bet your boots, I'm a sleeze-freezer . . . But not a cheater, lighten up guys...

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 347: Positively Pleva

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:42:00 -0500

The marvelous Steven Pleva is our guest today. Steve is one of the better players of the game and has won many tournaments during his storied career. In part one of this interview Steven discusses the Pleva Heretical Rules and several other topics.

We are unworthy!

SHOW TIMES
00:01 Right into the interview.
8:00 Pleva Bidding System

21:00 ASL Memories of Opponents

25:00 What Makes a Great Player pt. 1

31:00 Heretical Rules
45:14 Total Running Time

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Episode 346: ASL After Midnight

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 1 Aug 2024 19:38:00 -0500

ASL After Midnight! Finally an Advanced Squad Leader parody song that is about the victorious side of the game, rather than all of our wargaming foibles and faults. Donovan's game must have improved over the years. We finish off our coverage of the rules in section A with rule 26: Victory Conditions. Now you will be able to go back to all those games you have on hold and tally up the winner of each one. That only took us 16 years.

Picture of Vincent Maresca's Dice Tower

SHOW LINKS
None today

SHOW TIMES
00:01 "ASL After Midnight" Song
7:00 Rules VC

30:00 Dave's Digression

34:00 Rules VC Part 2
46:28 Total Running Time

ASL After Midnight
Lyrics by Dennis Donovan
Performed by The 2 Half Squad Singers

ASL after midnight, rolling dice till the dawn
AFVs all burning wreckage, they're gone, they're gone

I took the building 'bout 1 A.M. Rolling, rolling.
Close Combat phase skills showing again, rolling, rolling.

My squads lit up in his IR light
Its time to assault move to the right.

ASL after midnight, rolling dice till the dawn
AFVs all burning wreckage, they're gone, they're gone

Got T-34's, 1.8 inch thick steel, rolling, rolling
Ready to target a German Stug, rolling, rolling
The dice are heavy, the games at stake
Can't roll boxcars and see the MA break

ASL after midnight, rolling dice till the dawn
AFV's all burning wreckage, they're gone, they're gone

The air's electric, with Armored power, rolling, rolling
My dice are hotter, by the hour, rolling, rolling

The VC Buildings, are mine for the win
The buildings rockin' as my squads advance in

ASL after midnight, rolling dice till the dawn
AFV's all burning wreckage, they're gone, they're gone

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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Episode 345: Can't Explain (the Rout Rules)

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 10:13:00 -0500

It's those scary rout rules! Yes, we finally

tackle them in the rules section. They read fairly easy but require that 2 page example in the rule book. Must be a bit challenging.

SHOW LINKS
None today

SHOW TIMES
00:01 "Can't Explain (the Rout Rules)" Song
3:00 Bantero

16:00 Letters
25:00 Rules
58:28 Total Running Time

Can't Explain
Lyrics by Dennis Donovan
Performed by The 2 Half Squad Singers

These rules here guys

A10 point five (can't explain)

Smartest guys in the world

Yeah, any Rout Rules, yeah

Grofaz (can’t explain)

Almost grokked them once

but they (hurt my brain)

Dizzy in the head when

reading Rout rules

They’re really complex,

you know that it’s true

They give me headaches

again and again

A Gordian Knot, dude

Can’t explain

Just what they mean

Tried to decipher them dude

But haven't a clue

And they hurt my brain

(can’t explain)

Yeah, they're giving me a headache, man

(can’t retain)

A bit of help would

make me real glad

From the Rosetta Stone?

That wouldn’t be bad

I get little glimpses every

now and again

About what they mean, but

Can't explain

A single word

I’ve studied those rules

Since ‘eighty two

And still can’t explain

(wracked my brain)

Even Oppenheimer,

(can’t explain)

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Episode 344: In a Bitterest Stack

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Tue, 9 Jul 2024 11:19:00 -0500

Jump with us into the box and land on a brand new Bounding Fire Production called Bitterest Day. It includes a wonderful map of the Sugar Loaf Hill area on Okinawa, a sheet of counters, scenarios and more.

SHOW LINKS
None today

SHOW TIMES
00:01 "In a Stack" Song
6:00 What's in the Box?
44:30 Contest Draw and New Announced
50:28 Total Running Time

In a Stack
Lyrics by Dennis Donovan
Performed by The 2 Half Squad Singers

I have three elite squads, I'll move them in a stack.
With the 10-3 leader, now no turning back

I need two more MF's to get across the road.
I'll chance the minus two and hope I don't get hosed.

I'm moving all my guys I'll move them in a stack.
If my mentor saw this, he'd have a heart attack!

My opponent shakes his head and chokes on his coffee.
No I'm not a newbie but it sure seems like it, eh?

I'm sure I'll kick myself and catch a lot of flack.
I'll probably cry poor if my guys all get kacked.

We might get blown away by ignoring all the facts.
It's not easy moving out, when facing a kill stack

My guys will hopefully survive 20 down 2.
I need to get into the woods in hex G2.

If I look hard enough into the rule book.
Maybe I will find an out before my goose gets cooked!

Maybe the Dice Gods will cut me a little slack.
No cover anymore it's too late to turn back!

I see the turns go by the end is getting close.
Desperate times they call for desperate measures dude.
----

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Episode 343: ASL Journal 9 in the News

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 19:28:00 -0500

We hope that you enjoy the reprise of Dennis Donovan's ASL Journal Number 9 parody song that we open with. We take a look at the Mobelwagon and Ostwind in our Armored Fighting Vehicles segment and then touch on What's in the News. What we are playing lately is scenario FB8: For Want of Crust or Crumb. If you watch on Youtube you can be among the first to see the newly framed art from Hedgerow Hell. Or just look to the right.

SHOW LINKS

Richard Bog's Plane Found

D-Day Commemorative Coin

D-Day Changed the Sand

Clarence Bud Anderson Passes

D-Day Map Makers

SHOW TIMES
00:01 ASL Journal Number 9 Song

3:00 Chitty Chitty Chat Chat
10:30 What Have You Been Playing Lately?
17:00 Armoured Fighting Vehicles
30:40 What's in the News
44:24 Total Running Time

ASL JOURNAL 9

Dennis Donovan - lyrics and 'singing'

Jim "MixMasterJames" Bera - audio

I took my troubles down to Gaming Fools
You know that game store that grog nard dude
I went in Sunday when he opened up at nine
‘Cuz he plays A.S.L. and, he plays it all the time.

At ASL I am a flop with it
I haven’t won a game since 2006
He did a face palm and he sighed a mighty sigh
Said what you need my boy is, ASL Journal 9

He grabbed one and rang me up and gave me a wink
He said it will improve my game in under a week
It’s got a cool CG that’s called Suicide Creek
Scenarios, and articles, still in the shrink

I stayed up reading until dawn that night
I started playing every weekday night
And when I beat my friend for the thirty-second time,
I hugged my copy of, ASL Journal 9

It’s play-tested well, they’ve worked out all of the kinks
The 2 Half Squads they did a box art RE-view I think
You'll soon be a 10-3 just like ol’ Colonel Klink
Paid one-oh-five, it’s so worth it! That's what I think!

I go to every tournament in sightI became GROFAZ almost over night
And when I cornered Chas at ASLOK twenty nine
He signed my copy of A-SL Journal 9

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Episode 342: Cirillo and Deller Return!

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Sun, 2 Jun 2024 17:52:00 -0500

It is part two of our interview with Bill Cirillo and Sean Deller. The conversation about Twilight of the Reich. and a little Festung Budapest continues. Stick around after the interview to hear about the new contest we are currently running. But first enjoy, one more time, Denns Donovan's classic song about the anticipated reissue of YANKS! from episode 166.

SHOW LINKS

Twilight of the Reich at MMP

SHOW TIMES
00:01 Yanks! (Song)
4:00 Interview
49:20 Contest
54:42 Total Running Time

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Episode 341: Cirillo and Deller: They're Stellar

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Tue, 14 May 2024 12:00:00 -0500

We are honored to have Bill Cirillo and Sean Deller join us in discussing all things Twilight of the Reich. As well as a little Festung Budapest in this two part interview. The sun is setting so you better get listening!

SHOW LINKS
Twilight of the Reich at MMP

SHOW TIMES
00:01 Right into the Interview
4:45 Creation of Twilight of the Reich

LOS Examples

41:05 Possible New Project
50:01 Total Running Time

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

******

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Episode 340: Rushing Berserkers with Dennis

the2halfsquads@gmail.com (The 2 Half-Squads) — Thu, 2 May 2024 15:59:00 -0500

The dashing Dennis Donovan appears once again in the Broadcast Foxhole with us and we have a roarin' berserk time. We revisit Dennis's Russian Berserkers song that originally appeared in Episode 154. In the Box is Winter Offensive Pack #15 and our rules segment finishes the basic nationalities in such as the Axis Minors, Ethiopians, and Swedes.

SHOW LINKS

Bitterest Day at Bounding Fire

SHOW TIMES
00:01 Russian Berserkers Song
1:45 Chitty Chitty Chat Chat
13:05 What's in the Box?
36:00 Upcoming Products
39:00 Rules
1:06:55 Total Running Time

Russian Berserkers
sung to "There's a Hole in the Bucket"
lyrics by Dennis Donovan
performance by The 2 Half-Squads Singers

There’s some Russian berserkers! Oh Scheisse! Oh Scheisse!
There’s some Russian berserkers! Herr Colonel! Berserk!

Well shoot them, dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm!
Well shoot them, dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm shoot them!

With what shall we shoot them? Oh Scheisse! Oh Scheisse!
With what shall we shoot them? Herr Colonel! With what?

Mit der Flakvierling, dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm!
Mit der Flakvierling, dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm Flakvierling!

Der Flakvierling’s kaputt, Oh Scheisse! Oh Scheisse!
Der Flakvierling’s kaputt, Herr Colonel! Kaputt!

Well fix it dear Volksturm, dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm!
Well fix it dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm fix it!

With what shall we fix it? Oh Scheisse! Oh Scheisse!
With what shall we fix it? Herr Colonel! With what?

With a crew, dear Volksturm, dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm!
With a crew, dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm, a crew!

The crew it is broken, Scheisse! Oh Scheisse!
The crew it is broken! Herr Colonel, broken!

Well rally them, dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm!
Well rally them, dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm, rally them!

With what shall we rally them? Oh Scheisse! Oh Scheisse!
With what shall we rally them? Herr Colonel! With what?

With a Feldwebel, dear Volksturm, dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm!
With a Feldwebel, dear Volksturm! Dear Volksturm, Feldwebel!

Der Feldwebel is busy, Oh Scheisse! Oh Scheisse!
Der Feldwebel is busy, Herr Colonel, busy!

Doing what, dear Volksturm, dear Volksturm?!?! Dear Volksturm!
Doing what, dear Volksturm? Dear Volksturm, doing what?!?!

On the radio, Oh Scheisse! Oh Scheisse! Oh Scheisse!
On the radio with HQ, Herr Colonel, HQ!

And what is he saying, dear Volksturm, dear Volksturm?
And what is he saying, dear Volksturm, saying?

There’s some Russian berserkers! Oh Scheisse! Oh Scheisse!
There’s some Russian berserkers! O! HQ, Berserk!

The 2 Half-Squads is brought to you by Bounding Fire Productions, and kind donations from listeners like you.

The views and opinions expressed on The 2 Half-Squads are not necessarily those of the hosts. You can also watch the show on our Youtube channel.

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