Scorcher43

On a seemingly ordinary Tuesday night, Lance Corporal Mike Dobson and the members of the A Squadron of the 5th Duke of Telson Lancers arrived at their barracks to take part in their weekly Tuesday night Army Reserve training session. On the way in Mike met up with Trooper Tim Scofield and Trooper Cody Gramson. Gramson was rocking his fashionable but definitely non-regulation eye protection as always. He'd only been able to wear them at all because he'd been able to convince Corporal Wates he wouldn't wear them whenever any officers were around. Scofield had already put cam cream on his face completely unprompted. "Sco, why the megabluck do you have cam cream on?" Mike asked "Didn't the groupchat say we were doing section attacks tonight? I'm just trying to cut down on the time it takes for us to get ready." Scofield clarified Mike turned to Gramson, who was trying to hold in laughter. "Mate are you trying to suck up so the Corporal will stop making you carry the gun? He does it cause you've gotta get some meat on those bones of yours mate." said Gramson Before they could talk anymore, everyone was called into the courtyard, where Major Lisa Tardy and her staff were waiting to address them. The entirety of A Squadron had quickly gathered into the courtyard to listen to the Major, who greeted them with her characteristic grin. "Alright lads, I'm sure you all know how the international situation is starting to deteriorate. I know the newsmen have been very eager to point out how the KLR are arming up and how we're moving to respond. The simple fact is that its true, things are heating up especially after Soalon and the Army has decided to press reserve units into active duty to support full timers on operations." She explained She paused for a moment. Mike began to feel a chill go down his spine as he realised what she was about to say. "Bloody hell..." "The 5th Duke of Telson are one of the regiments the Army has decided to call up. I got these orders this morning and as of 7am next Monday you will report to the barracks for full time service regardless of personal circumstances, there's no negotiation on this one lads. We'll spend the next few days prepping for this so we're all set to go on Monday, I expect everyone to have their AE380 forms ready by the end of the night. Dismissed." Everyone began to move about the courtyard to report to conduct preparations. Despite everything that happened, all Mike could think about was how the hell he was gonna explain this is suzie... A Squadron, 5th Duke of Telson Lancers Regiment: A Light Cavalry unit of the Roskilde Army Reserve I sadly do not have the cash to put together an entire Light Cavalry Squadron... Some additional shots of the Reserve Barracks I designed it to fit with the Lego Modular building sets. I've actually had it for a while, just needed some motivation to put it up somewhere.

Issues with post have been fixed

So in previous posts I have shown off a couple of my models so far, however I thought i would collate all of my current Australian Army vehicles into 1 post, to be updated as time goes on and I build more. Here is an overall image of them My Bushmaster, a very well known ADF vehicle, from the sands of Afghanistan to the fields of Ukraine. The 40M, a workhorse of ADF logistics so long as Truckies aren't crashing them. They do this a lot... I need to update my canvas cover for the back as well. The Cargo G-Wagon, another logistics vehicle. The canvas cover on this one is in even greater need for an update. The G-Wagon Panel Van. I had originally planned for this one to be the 4 doored standard version, but the second set of doors made it look too long. Until I can rectify the issue, I'll keep it the 2 door version. The Surveillance Reconnaissance Vehicle. The sexiest G-Wagon, allows choccos to feel like SAScats when they drive them because it looks like it was made for spec ops.

Thanks! I put a priority on making the camo seem somewhat authentic and flow well.

Nice build! Good detailing with the earth between the surface and the bunker.

Mars Mission had its flaws of course, the absurdly high sticker count in many sets being the bane of children building sets and collectors efforts to complete them and sure, two piece green aliens aren't a brilliant minifigure design on its own. But I do believe that the theme has been overlooked enough and as a fan I would like to present my reasoning. The greatest aspect of the theme is its excellent vehicle designs. The Astronaut vehicles are quite impressive and as aside from a few exceptions, they have the consistent vision of being civilian mining vehicles drafted into military service. Take the Claw Tank for example, between its massive grabbing claw, the elevated glass cockpit designed for spatial awareness more than protection and its cargo tubes, it’s clear this was intended as a cargo hauler. Furthermore, the Crystal Reaper is literally just a crystal harvester with a single gun and a couple of missiles strapped on for self-defence. These aren't the weapons of an organised invading army, it’s the desperate defence force thrown together with what they had. The alien’s designs are also excellent, all of them being sleek, pointed, designed for speed and stealth, the complete opposite of the Astro's rugged and heavy vehicles. They truly look alien, almost animal-like in some respects with the red teeth accents and flowing green tentacles. I will also issue a small defence of the figure designs themselves. The alien drone designs whilst being lack lustre are purpose built for the sake of their vehicles, you know, the thing you’re buying the sets for. Being only two studs wide, they can fit in places where conventional minifigures cannot, which helps with the design of the vehicles as it makes them far less bulky than they could be. Whilst I admit that perhaps the battle droid design could have been used instead, I think it would take away the more unique aspect of the alien drone design and would simply be a copy of the Life on Mars aliens. The astronauts are also perfectly fine, sure they all have the same uniforms, but each has a unique face print as well which does bring some variety. Keeping in mind this is fundamentally in-universe meant to be the early days of Lego space exploration, so it would stand to reason that they wouldn’t all have personalised uniforms yet. In particular, I think it’s actually very poor the fact that many are so opposed to the conflict in a box formula, when it emphasises the play aspect of the sets. Sure, pacifism and more diplomatic space themes have their appeal, but I think we need to remember these weren't designed with AFOLs in mind and most kids usually aren’t entertained by pure exploration. Most kids probably won't be getting more than one set for a while as well, unless birthdays and Christmas’s are close together, hence its prudent to get both factions into the single set so that kids can get a basic storyline going at least with the first buy. Maybe this wouldn't be an issue if the theme wasn't conflict focused, sure, but then we wouldn't have many of these excellent designs. Also let’s face it, the colour pallet is phenomenal, the orange and white of the Astros is such a good look, very pleasing to the eyes. The alien's black and lime just adds to their mystique, the aura of 'alien', almost evoking the xenomorph with its black form and green acid blood. When put together they create the perfect contrast, complimenting the existing contrast of vehicle designs excellently. It may simply be personal taste, the the colours are the icing of the cake. I would like to hear other opinions on this theme though, feel free to comment and start your own discussions!

One can only hope mate. I'm pretty sure this is where Elon's gotten his inspiration, he just wants Mars Mission to become reality!

That it did mate. The Ultra-Drill is an excellent set, perfectly captures everything I love about the theme, very happy you've pointed it out. But its also the bane of my existence because mine doesn't have all of the stickers anymore so it never feels complete, hence it also captures my biggest gripe, the stickers... Exactly what I'm saying, the visual storytelling through the sets themselves and the gorgeous colours make it easily my favourite sub-theme. SP3 and Galaxy Squad are close seconds, but they don't do me the same way Mars Mission does. If you'd like to pick up more sets, definitely start with the Claw Tank Ambush or Recon Dropship. They are both great sets in their own right and for whatever reason they seem to have been the most circulated if my ebay and bricklink searches have told me anything, which means they can be easy to find for a good price. That's a very valid point mate, the formula is good when we're talking big single buys, but it has certainly got its drawbacks when considering it cuts off access to what would be perfect low to mid range sets. I also would love to get the mech on its own, and if I wasn't also interested in getting the Infiltrator then I'd be pretty frustrated at having to pay 3x as much for it so I can understand the frustration.

Mars Mission is a lot better than many people on this site give it credit, I would even argue it is one of the better space themes. Between its excellent vehicle designs, the impressive atmosphere and the excellent colour pallet, I think it well outshines the themes issues. Even the poor alien drone design is not without its merits when placed in the context of the Alien vehicle design philosophy. This isn't even mentioning the supporting material in the form of the themes broswer RTS and Lego Battles, which fleshed out the themes story and gave excellent context to the sets. Personally, I also like the conflict in a box formula, it offers more far more options for play and allows for two unique faction philosophies to be contained in the single set. Those two philosophies are also excellent BTW.

Very nice moc. I appreciate the simplicity in smaller builds like this, the figures and the technical are also top notch.

Very nice build, the trees and landscape are fantastic. The vehicles and figures are also well detailed, they really bring this build together. Always enjoy seeing your builds mate!

Excellent build, excellent story. The landscape itself is very impressive and is already a winner in my book. I like the brick built parachute design as well.

Cheers, I do like injecting a little bit of comedy into my stories and mocs, just lightens the tone a bit. The trail and castle were sections I really wanted to get right with how they helped tell the story so it’s great to hear they turned out well. Cheers! Yeah I wanted to try and pass it off as the symbol for the Tosul nuclear division, but it’s a little too obvious in hindsight.

Location: Kingston Fortress, Central Burke Atoll A container bearing the symbol of Tosul's Nuclear weapons development division had crashed through the wall of an ancient fortress, its casing still intact and waiting to be claimed. Despite being out of service for a hundred years, Kingston Fortress was about to become a battleground once more, one that could decide the fate of many more nations that the tiny island it called home. Having landed on the island the day before, a small team of paratroopers from the 69th Airborne Flaming Dragon Brigade, Tosul's infamous QRF force, approached the container after determining it wasn't leaking any dangerous radiation. Confirming the status of the cargo, the team relaxes as they appear to have gotten to the cargo before any of the BON task force could, making their job much easier and far less deadly. They had been ordered that due to the sensitive nature of the situation to use restraint when interacting with BON aligned troops, which meant strictly to only fire when fired upon or if the cargo was at risk of being captured. One of the troopers asks the team leader what kind of reward they'd get for this achievement. Extra rations for their families? Exemption for their sons and daughters from conscription? Hookers and blackjack? The team leader simply says "No, shut up Private". Whipping out his radio, the team leader calls in their position and situation directly to brigade headquarters, who respond with orders to secure the position until more troops could be sent to the location. They also mentioned Light Cavalry elements from the Roskilde Army had been sighted in their area. The Team Leader didn't even get to process the information before the sound of an engine and foliage crackling under boots and tires began to fill the ears of the entire team. Then as the sounds got closer, they began to hear the destinct sound of someone complaining in english. The Tosul paratroopers could already tell what type of soldiers they were up against.... reservists. The lead element of the Roskilde Army's 5th Duke of Telson Lancers' A Squadron was approaching the walls of the old fortress, not 100 metres from the position of the cargo according to satellite images. Having already been on the way back from operations in Gorkonam, the 5th Lancers were one of the closest combat units the PSIC had, hence this unit of reservist from Telson City were suddenly deployed to resolve one of the most important crisis of their day. What could go wrong? Lance Corporal Mike Dobson and his Section lead by Corporal Wates had been sent to retrieve a smaller container from the crashed cargo plane, denying Tosul the ability to sell its contents to bad guys with less to lose than they did. Mike knew he was a part of history in the making, but between the heat, Scofield's complaining about getting given the minimi again and Gramson's accute observations on "the destinct lack of hot sheila's and cold beers in this island paradise"... let's just say he was beginning to wish he was at home right now. But as they rounded the corner and came face to face with the stunned paratroopers, suddenly the whole world became very quiet and all the thoughts vanished from Mike's mind. For a solid two minutes, there was just silence. Everyone stood perfectly still in place, the Tosul and Roskilde soldiers simply stared at each other dumbfounded, even the bushmaster's engine seemed to have been drowned out by the adrenaline rush. "Bloody hell, section take up positions now!" ordered Corporal Wates, breaking the tension. After that there was a flurry of movement and the silence was replaced with shouting, the chambering of rounds and the switching of safety catches. Mike's heart was about to burst out of his chest as he ran to take up a position, switched his rifle to instant and took a sight picture of the Tosul machine gunner. To his right, Trooper Alice Musken and Scofield had laid out in prone position, while Trooper Josh Charles took up cover behind a tree. The ROE cards and the pre-patrol briefing had been clear, OFOF was to only open fire when fired upon or if Tosul troops were about to take full possession of nuclear material, Mike didn't hoped the paratroopers had been given similar instructions. He could see Trooper Enki Shilo set up his Mag on a fallen piece of wall, Hobbes taking up position next to him. The Bushmaster was brought around and Gramson aimed the gun toward the paratroopers. As the two sides began to take sight pictures of each other, they both demanded the other stand down. Scofield: "Drop your weapons! Drop your megablocking weapon!" Mike: "Stand down! Stand down!" Charles: "Down, put it down wanker!" Corporal Wates began to rapidly report the situation to their lieutenant on the radio. Wates: "Chauvel this is Chauvel 3, we have encountered 4 Tosul infantry guarding the container, no sign of any others, over" Chauvel: "Chauvel 3, this is Chauvel, OFOF remains the same, do not fire unless fired upon, reinforcements are enroute, over" A similar story played out with the Tosul paratroopers. The team leader began to scream into the radio whilst his mean began screaming at the Roskilde Lancers to stand down. To retreat now wouldn't simply land them in a gulag, they'd be executed on the spot, the officer over the radio reminded them of this as the team leader was practically begging for orders. Explosions began in the distance and a report from the officer saying that other units had already engaged BON troops, had caused the leader's heart to sink. As the reality of the situation washed over them, they began to realise they could either die to enemy fire like heroes or by a firing squad like cowards. They had already made up their minds when the Paratrooper team leader proclaimed what were his last intelligable words. Team leader: "For the Glory of...!" Mike wasn't sure who had shot first, but upon hearing the line that Tosulese villains in every action movie screamed as they fought, he let off 5 rounds into the Tosul machine gunner who only got off a single burst in his death throws. Simultaneously, everyone else in the section joined him and suddenly the world got very loud with gun fire. A massive hail of 5.56 and 7.62 rounds slammed into the paratroopers as they began to fire their own weapons. One of the paratrooper's heads was eviscerated as the full force of Scofield and Shilo's Mag58's fire. The team only managed to get off a few shots before they were annihilated, screaming as they fell. Mike had seen splinters of wood explode off the tree that Charles was behind, and he could desinctly feel and hear rounds whiz by his own head before he had even finished firing himself. As the shooting died down once it became clear the Tosul paratroopers were dead, Corporal Wates motioned the section to advance and secure the area. Mike didn't even have to think about what to do, their training had fully taken over and the whole section was silent as they stepped over the corpses of the paratrooper team, even Scofield was dead quiet. As they surveyed the area beyond the carnage, Mike heard the voice over radio by the Paratrooper leader's body screaming in Tosulese. It suddenly cut out as the officer on the other end must've realised gunfire, screams and sudden radio silence only meant one thing. Wates: "We all good lads, Dobbo?" Mike: "All good Corporal, 4 enemy KIA, we got no casualties, might be more coming though..." Wates: "Yeah, secure the area, bring up the bushmaster, we might need to bug out asap so get ready to load that thing on." The section gathered around the container as Wates radioed in a post-action report to the Troop commander. Chauvel: "Chauvel 3, this is Chauvel, we are nearing your position, load the cargo onto your vehicle and get ready to move, intel reports more Tosul troops moving into the area. Out" The section gathered around the cargo as the bushmaster drove up to be loaded with the nuclear material. Charles came up next to him and with his hands still shaking from the adrenaline rush, began to ask Mike what had just happened. Charles: "Mate that was ducked, why'd they try it? Did you see that one megablock's megablocking head, what the megabluck!" Mike: "Mate lets focus up. Just get this thing on the bush and we're getting the megabluck out of here." It didn't even feel real what had happened to Mike. In the space of about 10 minutes 4 men were dead and they had just taken positive control over some of the most highly valued material in the world. This was the job of the SAScats, not a bunch of reservists from Telson City! Suddenly more explosions went off in the distance and a machine gun was barking close by, Mike's world was getting a lot more scary by the second.

Thanks! I was trying to sort of get that effect in there with a couple of the figures.

Excellent build, I especially love the submarine, and the camp in the distance is an interesting effect thats well pulled off in thsi moc.

Awesome work, good build and nice story to go along with it. Would like to get a better look at the helicopter hinted at in the first picture.

Cheers, humanitarian work is always a nice change of pace for military building.

After touching down in Gorkonnam as part of a PSIC intervention force, the 5th Duke of Telson Lancers were immediately put to work in establishing a presence and assisting the population. A Squadron was given the task to rebuild a farmland region in the country's centre following exercises by the local Gorkonnam Army mechanised troops, which had torn up the region's fields despite the protests of the populace. The area had reminded Mike of the potato farms surrounding the regiment's home of Telson City, he was missing home already. The locals needed help planting the next crop or they'd miss the growing season, losing their livelihood. So like the big damn heroes they are, the Lancers set about to help them. Mike's troop had found that the biggest issue the locals faced was actually ploughing their fields, most of their machinery had been used as target practice for the Gorkonnam Army's tanks. So they had come up with a solution, hitch up a plough to the back of a Bushmaster and turn it into a tractor. Turns out it did that job pretty well. Mike figured once they retire them they could sell them to farmers after their little field test proved its capability. The mastermind of the entire operation was Trooper George Hobbes, he came from a family of farmers and was studying agriculture at Telson State University. Corporal Wates figured he might as well use that knowledge, so he had him liase with the local farmers who spoke English enough that Hobbes could help organise the ploughing and planting. Mike had never realised how enthusiastic he was about farming before he was out in his element. Hobbes: ...once the next season comes along, you've got to switch the crops around. Its very important to maintaining the level of yield and... Farmer: Boy, I have been farming since before your parents even met each other. We know what we are doing. Mike had been put on a detail to help spread out the seeds into the ploughed land along with Scofield. Scofield had applied his cam cream again (At this point Mike figured he just liked how it felt) and spent the whole time complaining about how heavy his bag was despite it being only 7kg. Mike just missed home, he really missed Suzie, but he knew this was more important than just him. He swallowed the feelings. Scofield: How do seeds weigh this much mate? This sucks, surely we can let the locals handle this, I joined to shoot shit and get paid to go camping, not be a farmer like Hobbes. I fix computers in an air conditioned room for my civvie job, I should've been a sig. Farmer: Your friend... his brain... stupid yes? Mike: Mate you don't even know the half of it... Gramson, always fashioning himself a womaniser, began hitting on local girls. He somehow figured him being "exotic" would make him irresistable. He was yet to find any success... Extra Pictures: I should note that the design for the bushmaster is not originally my own, it is based on the instructions by Brick Designer, I just remodelled it to the correct camouflage scheme.

Cheers mate

Really good build! I liked the story you wrote to accompany it as well. The camera work on this is easily some of the finest, making really good use of different shots to support the story.

Yeah mate I always thought that more mocs with regular troops as the focus are a bit more interesting to me. Great to hear you're going down the same road!

Really great build. I love the small details with the roadblocks and cones. The city street in general is excellent. Good story as well!

Thanks mate, yeah I’m gonna try and make sure my story isn’t the saving grace next time and improve my environmental builds. I’ll try and experiment with the lighting a little too, thanks for the review.

Yeah they’re quite tall haha, the ADF is actually taking them out of the Light CAV units soon because they’re too large and replacing them with the new Hawkei’s which are more suited to the role. I’ve gotta make one of those too now then haha.