Chapter 2, Preparing for Battle

Sun Baili, aware that the troops were in need of weapons, did not hesitate to say, "Then I shall accept them! If there is ever a need for my brothers, do not hesitate to ask!" After bidding farewell, he returned to the barracks with the weapons

This method is quite good, but its implementation is not without difficulty: the destructive power of cluster grenades has been enhanced, but due to the increase in weight, the throwing distance has correspondingly decreased. Moreover, there will certainly be infantry following behind the enemy tanks, which poses a significant danger! Therefore, when attacking tanks, it is essential to suppress the enemy's infantry; ideally, isolating the tanks would make the task much easier. Bai Li said this while glancing humorously at the young platoon leader who had just proposed the idea, silently noting his name: Xie Changfeng.

Qin Hanlin's eyes lit up, and he quickly asked, "May I ask how long you plan to be stationed in Shanghai? Would you be interested in doing business with me?" As a businessman with a background in the underworld, he understood that it was difficult to survive in Shanghai without a solid backing. Ever since he connected with the Tax Police through Xiang Tian, his business had been thriving. However, he never expected that a transfer order would suddenly sever the relationships he had painstakingly built over the years. Just when he was worried, someone came knocking at his door. How could he not make an effort to cultivate this connection, especially since Sun Baili was Xiang Tian's cousin!

Since the arrival in Shanghai, the headquarters of the 19th Route Army has been closely monitoring the developments of the situation. Based on intelligence gathered from various sources, it has determined that war is inevitable. Therefore, on January 23, an emergency meeting was convened at the Longhua Garrison Command for all officers above the battalion level, where it was decided to hold Shanghai at all costs. A confidential order was issued at 7 PM:

The railway artillery battalion and the garrison company of the North Station are under the command of the 6th Regiment of the 78th Division

Qin Hanlin's tone of disappointment confirmed Sun Baili's suspicion that Xiang Tian must have taken advantage of his power during his time in Shanghai to facilitate his smuggling business, reaping benefits for himself. The relationship between the two must be quite extraordinary, which is why he laid everything bare: "In fact, the tax police will soon withdraw from the urban area of Shanghai, and the defense has been fully taken over by our 19th Route Army"

Baili shook his head again and said, "A single hand grenade, let alone blowing apart steel plates several millimeters thick, might not even be able to destroy a tank track."

At this moment, the most composed and eldest company commander, Chen Zijian, said: "I heard from veterans of the Northeast Army that the armor of Japanese tanks is quite thin, only about a dozen millimeters thick, and perhaps even a hand grenade could damage them."

Looking at Qin Hanlin's hopeful gaze, Sun Baili smiled apologetically and said: "Baili is a soldier and does not know how to do business. Although I wish to help in any small way within my capabilities, the current situation is very tense, and I may be unable to assist!"

After the weapons were exchanged, Bai Li signaled for everyone to sit down and then said: "Brothers, you should have noticed that the situation in Shanghai has become very tense recently. The headquarters and the military have been holding consecutive military meetings these days to discuss countermeasures. From the current information we have, the Japanese are determined to provoke war here, and our army has no way to retreat! Although the military has not made a final decision yet, I believe they will certainly not hand over Shanghai to the Japanese without a fight, thus a desperate battle with the enemy is inevitable! Today, I called you all here not only to distribute weapons but also to discuss how to fight this battle well. Although I have studied military tactics abroad for a few years, I have no practical combat experience, so I ask everyone to provide their opinions!"

The elegantly composed Company Commander Li Congwen softly inquired, "Could we have the military procure some anti-tank guns?" He then chuckled at his own jest, saying, "Distant water cannot quench a near thirst"

Baili responded: "The previous training plan is suspended. Starting tomorrow, we will conduct tactical drills for defensive warfare, while also strengthening live-fire training. Additionally, the company and platoon leaders, along with the reconnaissance soldiers, should take the time to familiarize themselves with the surrounding terrain. The current situation is extremely tense, and it can be said that it is on the verge of erupting, so we must prepare in advance and not simply wait for orders from above"

Baili said: "Based on my judgment, within a few months, the Japanese and our 19th Route Army will definitely engage in battle. Although the scale of the war may not be large, it will certainly affect most areas of Shanghai, so you should prepare early and not be caught off guard when the time comes!" Then Baili added: "This is all military confidential information. Because of your special relationship with my cousin, I am sharing this with you, and I hope that Boss Qin will not let it leak out."

On January 26, the Ordnance Department distributed urgently needed weapons and ammunition to various units, while additionally providing each company with two light machine guns. By the evening of the 26th, the positions of the 19th Route Army were essentially established, and the Japanese forces were already fully prepared. That night, both sides' positions were enveloped in silence, as everyone took advantage of this final moment to rest adequately, conserving their strength for the fierce battles to come. By the evening of the 26th, the positions of the 19th Route Army were essentially established, and the Japanese forces were already fully prepared. That night, both sides' positions were enveloped in silence, as everyone took advantage of this final moment to rest adequately, conserving their strength for the fierce battles to come.

The situation is tense! Is war really about to break out? No wonder the Japanese in the concession have been causing trouble lately! Qin Hanlin truly lives up to his reputation as an old hand; he immediately grasped the crux of the matter and pressed on, saying: "Brother, is there any insider information you can share? You know my business is very risky!"

Chen Zijian added: "There are quite a few concrete buildings on Baoshan Road, we can send some people to attack the tanks by throwing cluster grenades from a high vantage point, the effect will definitely be much better!" Bai Li nodded in approval and said: "Let’s add two more light machine guns and a few snipers to form a fire point, the position can be about fifty meters in front of the defense line, this will better restrain the enemy's charge"

Zhong Wu complained, "This is no different from saying nothing! In my opinion, if it really comes to it, we should use explosives; one life for a Japanese tank is worth it!"

Baili took a breath and continued, "The Japanese army has significant advantages in terms of weaponry, the military quality of its personnel, and logistical support, while we have the upper hand in terms of troop strength and geographical advantage. If commanded properly, we may not necessarily lose to the enemy. Our battalion's defense area is entirely within the urban district, which somewhat limits the enemy's artillery effectiveness. However, the wide roads offer no fortifications to defend, and if the enemy charges with tanks, it will be very difficult to resist. Therefore, I hope everyone can contribute ideas and find ways to deal with the enemy."

Qin Hanlin waved his hand and said, "It's just a trivial matter, not worth mentioning! I have collaborated with your cousin for many years, and we are like brothers; his affairs are my affairs!" Then he sighed and continued, "It's a pity that his troops are about to be transferred out of Shanghai; I wonder if there will be any opportunity to make money together in the future"

Of course, it's convenient! Qin Hanlin replied readily: "These items are stored here by your cousin. I will send a vehicle to deliver them to you shortly!"

Upon receiving the order, the 6th Regiment, where Sun Baili was stationed, promptly made the necessary troop deployments

1st Battalion and Mortar Platoon are responsible for defending the Qiujiang Road and Baoshan Road line, 2nd Battalion and Mortar Company are responsible for defending the Yokohama Road, Tiantong'an Road, and Qingyun Road line, and the 3rd Battalion serves as a reserve, gathering and standing by near the Huzhou Guild Hall, while also providing support to the 1st Battalion

While Sun Baili was puzzled, two attendants had already carried out a heavy box. Qin Hanlin pointed at the box and said in a low voice: "Brother Baili, you have disclosed such important information, and I have no way to repay you. These four Czech light machine guns are a small token of my appreciation; please be sure to accept them"

The 78th Division, 156th Brigade is responsible for the defense tasks along the line from the Beijing-Shanghai Railway north to Wusong and Baoshan, while the 155th Brigade is tasked with defending the line from the Beijing-Shanghai Railway south to Hongqiao and Caohejing

"What if we use cluster grenades?" a young platoon leader suddenly exclaimed, asking loudly.

The "Xiangsheng Trading Company" is located on a secluded street in the Zhabei District, featuring a two-courtyard layout. In front stands a row of tall single-story buildings serving as storefronts, while at the back is a four-story Western-style building, adjacent to the Suzhou River. Sun Baili surveyed the surrounding terrain, feeling an increased admiration for his boss, Qin Hanlin. The entire layout of the trading company can be described as both offensive and defensive: the building at the back is the tallest structure on the street, allowing for surveillance over a radius of several hundred meters. Additionally, the Suzhou River behind the trading company facilitates the transport of illicit goods and serves as an excellent escape route in emergencies. At that moment, Qin Hanlin, dressed in a black silk long robe, quickly approached, clasping his fists and said, "Why are you being so formal, Baili? Just come in and find me directly, no need for any announcements."

After leading the troops to the front line, Sun Baili, based on the preliminary terrain reconnaissance, determined that the main focus of the Japanese army's attack would certainly be the open road of Baoshan Road. Therefore, he ordered Company 1 and Mortar Platoon 1, along with the Machine Gun Company, to defend, while Company 2 was assigned to defend Qiujang Road, and Company 3, along with the newly established pistol squad, was designated as the reserve force. To facilitate command, Sun Baili set up the command post on the third floor of a four-story building on Baoshan Road, where the view was unobstructed, allowing clear visibility of the sentries on the Japanese positions several hundred meters away. After the troop assignments were completed, the company and platoon leaders directed the soldiers to quickly stack three street barricades using sandbags on the street, with a distance of 200 meters between each barricade. In front of each barricade, 50 meters ahead, they erected obstacles made of barbed wire and fences to minimize the enemy's charging speed. Once the positions were arranged, Sun Baili personally conducted a thorough inspection, focusing on the locations of the sniper points and the allocation of firepower. After reviewing, Sun Baili made no changes except for relocating the heavy machine gun from the first barricade to the second, as the construction of the positions was quite mature, demonstrating the 19th Route Army's rich combat experience.

Qin Hanlin chuckled and said, "Brother Baili, you truly have a sense of humor. I am merely a businessman; when choosing a location, I consider the feng shui. Why would I think about offense or defense?" He then extended his hand in an inviting gesture towards Baili, saying, "It is inconvenient to talk outside; please come in for a cup of tea, and we can discuss matters slowly."

Baili quickly shook his head and said, "This is too dangerous, and the chances of success are not high. Unless in a critical situation, do not use this tactic under any circumstances"

After taking a seat, Sun Baili spoke directly: "Boss Qin, my cousin asked me to come and collect some items. I wonder if it is convenient for you"

I completely agree with the captain's arrangement! The burly company commander with a full beard loudly expressed his agreement while already starting to change to a new gun. This man, named Zhong Wu, had previously engaged in robbery and theft, which gave him a particularly strong air of the underworld. However, he was very brave in battle and had a strong sense of loyalty, making him the easiest subordinate to get along with. The other company commanders, seeing that Zhong Wu had taken the initiative, responded with a loud cheer and rushed over with laughter. Although the squad leaders did not have handguns for the time being, they were all excited at the thought that in just a few days they would be able to carry handguns like the company commanders.

After returning to the barracks, Sun Baili immediately called over the squad leaders and opened the box in front of them. The officers could not help but show their delight at the sight of the brand new firearms and the bright yellow ammunition. With the impending battle, the soldiers' greatest concern was the weapons and ammunition. Upon learning that these were all procured by the battalion commander himself, the squad leaders looked at Baili with increased trust and gratitude, and their hostility towards this outsider significantly diminished. Sun Baili was very excited to see this; he knew that from now on, it would be difficult for these people to reject him. Given time, he was certain he could integrate with this unit, sharing life and death together. He had not expected that the various efforts he had made over the past three months to gain the trust of his subordinates would not be as effective as this batch of weapons and ammunition. Had he known this earlier, he would have had his cousin send a batch of weapons over first, avoiding all these detours.

On the 24th, the 60th Division's Huang Maoquan Corps arrived near Nanxiang and stood by. The 60th and 61st Divisions served as the general reserve, remaining on standby at their original locations. Police from various districts and the security corps of the He-Tu-Shu were under the command of the senior military officers in their respective areas. The General Command and the Army Headquarters relocated to Zhenru, while the garrison command temporarily stationed at Longhua

Baili decided to seize the opportunity and said: "Brothers, I plan to handle this batch of weapons as follows: the six new pistols will be exchanged by the company commanders with the old ones. I will find a way to purchase a few more new pistols in the next couple of days, aiming to equip the squad leaders as well. The exchanged old pistols will be gathered to form a pistol squad. I have heard that the Japanese army's bayonet skills are quite good, and since this is urban warfare, close combat is inevitable. Therefore, I want to equip our troops with more pistols to bridge the gap with the enemy. As for the four machine guns, if they are distributed evenly among the companies, the assistance will be minimal. Thus, I intend to strengthen the machine gun company with all of them. Do any of you have objections?"

Qin Hanlin patted his chest and said, "You can rest assured, this will definitely not reach the ears of a second person!" At that moment, a soldier brought by Sun Baili arrived at the door to report that everything was ready. Sun Baili immediately stood up to take his leave. After escorting him to the door, Qin Hanlin asked Baili to wait a moment, then called over a servant, leaned down to whisper a few words, and the servant immediately nodded and ran inside.

The commander of the Wusong Fort is to hold the fort with the existing troops and provide mutual support with the garrison of nearby forts

Sun Baili looked at the middle-aged man in front of him, who had a prosperous and amiable smile, and thought to himself that if it weren't for his cousin telling him directly, he would never have guessed that this man was actually the leader of a smuggling weapons syndicate. He could only lament that one should not judge a person by their appearance. He stepped forward and cupped his fists in greeting, saying, "I am afraid that if I enter rashly, I might disturb your business." Then he joked, "The location chosen by your firm is well-defended and well-offensive; could it be that Boss Qin has studied military strategy before?"

Having resolved the most challenging issue, the atmosphere immediately became relaxed. Zhong Wu cheerfully asked, "Company Commander, how will the military training be arranged in the future? Will we continue to follow your 'Baili Manual' or temporarily halt to prepare for battle?" The 'Baili Manual' referred to by Zhong Wu is a set of infantry drills compiled by Baili, based on his personal experiences, which integrates the German army's drill regulations with the characteristics of the Chinese people. It had been implemented for a period in the Tax Police Corps with significant results. Therefore, upon joining the 19th Route Army, Baili enforced its implementation. However, due to the lack of immediate effects, the officers and soldiers had not fully accepted it yet.

Sun Baili clasped his hands and said, "Then I must trouble Boss Qin!"

Indeed! How did I not think of that!" Zhong Wu slammed the table with force and said, "This method will definitely work! Tying up a dozen or so grenades at once will surely blow it to smithereens!

After everyone nodded in understanding, Baili said: "If there are no other matters, we will conclude today's meeting here. After returning, please inform the brothers that any personal matters requiring them to go out should preferably be handled in the next few days. I estimate that it won't be long before going out will be prohibited. Meeting adjourned"