This Army University Press (AUP) virtual staff ride examines the planning and execution of OPERATION TABLETENNIS, the capture of Noemfoor Island by two separate Regimental Combat Teams. This operation was part of the larger “approach to the Philippines” that encompassed eight separate operations that took place from April through October 1944. At the time of the campaign, Noemfoor's strategic importance lay in its proximity along the planned Allied axis of advance through western New Guinea toward the Philippines, as well as in the capture of the three Japanese airfields on the island. Seizing the island would allow the Allies to establish air and minor naval facilities for the purpose of continuing operations to the west.
The primary learning objective is to discuss the insights and lessons learned in expanding and defending the lodgment in a jungle environment, focusing on the regimental level (today’s BCT level).
The Noemfoor VSR is fully exportable to any organization that has access to the Army-authorized gaming software, Virtual Battlespace 3 (VBS3). Each exportable package includes full instructor support materials, student readings, and instructions on how to use everything. Please see below.