Fallout 4: The Commonwealth Regiment
Character Name: Brigette Andersen
Game: Fallout 4 (Heavily modded)
Bio: Over 200 years after the Great War - the nuclear war that destroyed every country on Earth - the East coast of America is a lawless and dangerous place, where the shattered remnants of humanity try to piece life together in the face of radiation, limed resources, and threats from mutated animals, raiders, and other hostile groups.
The Commonwealth Minutemen were created to help protect communities and bind them into a functional society. Following the Quincy massacre, the Minutemen disbanded and the communities they represented fell apart.
From the ashes of the Minutemen, the Commonwealth Regiment is a military organisation aiming to create an area of safe space in the Commonwealth for communities, old and new, to prosper.
Story Order
Time to step out of Vault 111 and restart the adventure again! ⠀
Stepping out into the Commonwealth, there's many dangers and evils all across the land, so it's always good to come across a friendly face! (Fallout 4 Heather Companion Mod)⠀
In the dimly lit remains of a ruined multi-story car park, a lone survivor prepares a questionable meal - but its all she has.
Escaping raider-wrecked territory, Julie Sorenson has made her way out of Boston seeking shelter and safety.
Escaping raider-wrecked territory, Julie Sorenson has made her way out of Boston seeking shelter and safety.
The Commonwealth Minutemen was a great idea, that ultimately failed. Lessons have been learned, and from humble beginnings, it's time to try again with the Commonwealth Regiment.⠀
When you're in a raider gang, it's not about living in comfort, it's about taking what you want and moving on.⠀
Buildings are dangerous places in post-apocalypse America. Guiding your team safely through the buildings has to be done slowly and methodically - anything could be round the next corner!⠀
Scars? Check. War paint? Check. Wearing rebar as armour? All check - time to become leader of a raider gang!⠀
Rebuilding the ruins of Sanctuary Hills is underway! It's important to have a home to fight for, if the Commonwealth Regiment is ever going to make advances.⠀
Gooooooooood morning Commonwealth! Medic Anderson is geared up and ready to start the day shift patrolling Sanctuary.⠀
The Minute Man stands proudly above the ruins of the Commonwealth, a testament to those who have given their life defending their home. ⠀
When not on assignment, the 1st Special Operations Detachment helps patrol the areas around Commonwealth settlements. ⠀
"He's over there!!!"⠀
"TAKE THE SHOT!!!"⠀
"TAKE THE SHOT!!!"⠀
Come rain or shine, the work of the Commonwealth Regiment never stops! The 1st Special Operations Division heads out into the Commonwealth.⠀
"Go! Go! Go!" The ruins of the towns and cities of the Commonwealth are perfect for ambushes. Arriving in force, moving quickly, and keeping to cover and the best ways to survive in urban environments.⠀ ⠀
Sometimes the work of the 1st Special Operations Division requires the team to work out of uniform on special assignments.⠀
When the weather closes in, the Commonwealth Regiment has to put on extra patrols, lest any raider groups try to take advantage of the inclement weather.
December has arrived, and with it, the landscape is covered in a blanket of snow. Time for the Commonwealth Regiment to switch to winter camo!⠀
With winter arriving, the Commonwealth Regiment breaks out the winter camo! ⠀
The first winter storm of the season seriously hampers visibility while the 1st Special Operations Detachment are out on assignment. ⠀
As the sun sets and the snow continues to fall, it's hard to see anything: the landscape of the Commonwealth hidden behind a veil of white! ⠀
Reduced visibility means everyone who doesn't want to be found comes out to play. If you don't have cover, the best thing is to move as quickly as possible! ⠀
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The eerie landscape of the Commonwealth during a dusk snowstorm!
The town of Lexington was once a busy industrial town before the war, bustling with people going about their business. 200 years on, the crumbling ruins provide a hideaway for those looking to take from others.⠀
Dark square? Guess again, even the darkest of nights are turned into advantages for the 1st Special Operations Division, as they conduct clandestine operations across the Commonwealth.⠀
This..... This is not great weather for a sniper.....⠀
21 rounds left..... After a successful sortie, an unexpected ambush on the way back to base leaves the 1st Special Operations Division short of ammo!⠀
Walking in the shadow of the past.... These double-decker highways run the lengths and breadth of America, allowing the new nuclear-powered cars to travel at their full speed across the country. ⠀
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In the Commonwealth, many of these structures now provide a home for the Gunners - a well armed mercenary group striking civilian settlements.⠀
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In the Commonwealth, many of these structures now provide a home for the Gunners - a well armed mercenary group striking civilian settlements.⠀
The town of Lexington peers through some winter mist.⠀
200 years on, there's little people left to discuss the finer points of fashion. One member of the Commonwealth Regiment is bringing the 'Chops back!⠀
Some light winter snow brings pink skies to the Commonwealth this morning.
[Screams in robot]⠀
Sometimes people did survive the nuclear war 220 years ago but not in the way they expected.... or hoped....⠀
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Feral ghouls are what remains of some of the survivors. Still alive this day, but they're forgotten all of their humanity - and attack anything and everything on sight!⠀
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Feral ghouls are what remains of some of the survivors. Still alive this day, but they're forgotten all of their humanity - and attack anything and everything on sight!⠀
Built to last! Some of the Protectrons built to serve the Commonwealth and its people are still stomping around to this day - many (if not all) completely oblivious to the destruction all around them! ⠀
On patrol! The 1st Special Operations Detachment heads out into the Commonwealth for another patrol to keep the settlements safe!⠀
Warrant Officer Anderson is back in Sanctuary, using a rare period free time to pick up some supplies from the base's stores. ⠀
The 1st Special Operations Detachment is called back to Vault 81 to deal with a situation!
Looking across to the ruins of Boston on clear winter's morning...
When the sun starts to set, and the winter snow drives at the Commonwealth, the landscape takes on a very eerie demeanour!⠀
Heading out! The 1st Special Operations Detachment heads out on a dull Commonwealth morning for an assignment in Boston.⠀
Walking down a familiar road, a strange noise breaks the silence. 'aint nothing in the Commonwealth that stalks from the bushes friendly! ⠀
The Commonwealth Assault Rifle (CAR) is the main rifle of the Commonwealth Regiment and is a modified version of the American 21st century-era Service Rifle - of which many can still be found throughout the Commonwealth today.⠀
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Special Operations detachments use a modified version of the CAR, featuring a short-range scope and extended barrel.⠀
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Special Operations detachments use a modified version of the CAR, featuring a short-range scope and extended barrel.⠀
Clearing the road ahead: The 1st Special Operations Detachment advances cautiously towards the town of Lexington.⠀
"My target is over there...... somewhere...." - Warrant Officer Andersen's mission to take a strategic position on the Charles River is at risk, with inclement weather obscuring the view for her sniper teams. ⠀
Moving through the streets of Boston is a perilous task - even for the 1st Special Operators Detachment. Ruined building, damaged cars, and debris littering the streets means that danger could be lurking in any direction - and it usually is! ⠀
Warrant Officer Andersen watches the square for any signs of movement. The open space will be dangerous for the squad to cross, but the heavy fog might just give them the cover they need to advance unseen.⠀
Staying in cover saves lives! With many types of threats that could come at you in any direction, staying alert and moving from cover to cover will help protect from incoming fire.⠀
"How about you get down off the roof and surrender, before you get yourself hurt?"⠀
A delightful duo.....
"Looks you've just found yourself in a pool of hot water" - The 1st Special Operations Detachment has a run in with Skinny Malone and his crew...⠀
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Despite all the bravado, with 4 gangsters against 8 armed and ready soldiers, Mr. Malone wisely decides on a peaceful solution...⠀
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Despite all the bravado, with 4 gangsters against 8 armed and ready soldiers, Mr. Malone wisely decides on a peaceful solution...⠀
In the anarchy of post-nuclear war America, sometimes having a fixed home is nothing but a signpost for those who would look to do harm. Many people fancy their chances on the open roads, moving from place to place, sleeping wherever they can.⠀
First day back home on leave, Warrant Officer Andersen opens her front door - and the snow comes flurrying in! She smiles, as memories of playing in the snow as a kid and happier times come flooding back.⠀
Guarding the bridge into Sanctuary... By 2287, Sanctuary Hills had become Commonwealth Regiment Station (CRS) Sanctuary - the headquarters of the Commonwealth Regiment, and the home of the 1st Special Operations Detachment, as well as the 2nd and 6th Companies.⠀
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Kellogg..... The man who has brought untold misery to the Commonwealth - including shooting dead your spouse and kidnapping your son. ⠀
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Quite an emotional moment coming face to face with him for the first time!⠀
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Quite an emotional moment coming face to face with him for the first time!⠀
There comes a time when one must answer for their crimes... The 1st Special Operations Detachment was sent to Kellogg's stronghold to capture him, but I don't think anyone in the Commonwealth believed for a second he would let himself be captured alive...
The Commonwealth Regiment is the main military force to be found in the Commonwealth - but now there's a new player in town: the Brotherhood of Steel have arrived!⠀
The Brotherhood of Steel's Prydwen: an airborne aircraft carrier capable of moving aircraft, troops and equipment over large distances in a short time. With this airship at their disposal, a full on invasion can be mounted at just a few hours notice!⠀
The Brotherhood of Steel's Prydwen: an airborne aircraft carrier capable of moving aircraft, troops and equipment over large distances in a short time. With this airship at their disposal, a full on invasion can be mounted at just a few hours notice!⠀
Seeing the Prydwen flying overhead, Warrant Officer Andersen ponders what the arrival of the full force of the Brotherhood of Steel will mean for the Commonwealth and its inhabitants.⠀
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Meanwhile, Dogmeat is more interested in a nearby stick! ⠀
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Meanwhile, Dogmeat is more interested in a nearby stick! ⠀
Some Super Mutants have set up camp on a bridge on the approach to Commonwealth Regiment territory, hoping to catch unsuspecting travellers out. ⠀
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Unfortunately for them, the 1st Special Operations Division spots them first! ⠀
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Unfortunately for them, the 1st Special Operations Division spots them first! ⠀
The Vertibirds brings a tactical superiority for the Brotherhood of Steel - but they are not invincible! This Vertibird flew overhead, trying to limp back to base with a damage engine.⠀
The 1st Special Operations Detachment can hold their own in the biggest of gunfights, but their also specialists in infiltration and stealth - able to create tactical opportunities without alerting the enemy!⠀
A misty winters morning greets the Commonwealth Regiment at Sanctuary.
Winter nights in the Commonwealth are dark, eerie and cold! As they head out on patrol, members of the 1st Special Operations Detachment keep close to make sure they don't get cut off.⠀
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Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean it's not there! Leading the night patrol, Warrant Officer Andersen has to be ready for anything!⠀
The 1st Special Operations Detachment moves out in the dead of night to reach their objective by daybreak for a dawn raid. It's cold, it's wet, but the darkness provides the element of surprise as they advance. ⠀
From dull thuds in the distance, a bright light shines through the darkness as a Brotherhood of Steel night patrol looms into view. ⠀
Scanning the treeline for targets..... Keeping a close key on your surrounding is key for survival when traversing the Commonwealth - you never know what could be lurking in the bushes, or behind the next wall! ⠀
Julie Sorenson was once a refugee, escaping her besieged homestead. A chance meeting between her and the Commonwealth Regiment changed things forever. Becoming part of it, Sorenson is now part of the 1st Special Operations Detachment.
Clearing out the old Vault-tec vaults can be tiring work! Area secured, the 1st Special Operations Detachment pauses for a quick rest before moving out. ⠀
Running pace! The 1st Special Operations Detachment moves out quickly to defend a settlement calling for help!
The Gunners fancy themselves as a military-style organisation, but in reality they are little more than ruthless thugs who shoot anything and everything that won't pay them enough to not shoot them....⠀
The 1st Special Operations Detachment runs towards Lexington, trying to link up with the 6th Infantry Company who have come under fire by a band of raiders.⠀
1st Special Operations Detachment heads out towards the city of Boston for another patrol of the ruins, as the Commonwealth Regiment tries to restore order in the region.
Movement spotted at the target site ahead.... No prizes for guessing who - ain't no mistaking the silhouettes of Super Mutants - even at a distance!
The Synths have busted the gate and are launching an attack. Unfortunately for them CRS Sanctuary is the headquarters of the Commonwealth Regiment, and the CR's most heavily defended installation in the Commonwealth!
Life in the Commonwealth Regiment isn't easy. When not out on deployment, training is the order of the day. With a new recruit watching on, members of the 1st Special Operations Detachment & the 6th Infantry Company show them how it's done!
(yes this was a bit of Fallout 4 AI foolery, but it worked well in lore!)
(yes this was a bit of Fallout 4 AI foolery, but it worked well in lore!)
Just outside of base and blanketed by a snowstorm, Warrant Officer Andersen hears something nearby and readies her weapon - just in case!
Through the snow comes shouts of "MEDIC"! One of the morning patrol has become seperated in the snowstorm and injured their leg. Thankfully Andersen, a CR Medic, was nearby and heard the shouts for help!
Out on patrol in the streets of Boston.
Even 200 years after the collapse of civilisation, some places remain undisturbed. That is, until the 1st Special Operations Detachment finds a way in!
When you're that used to living in the apocalypse it is completely acceptable to twat a deathclaw with a stick..... Well, thank goodness it's a juvenile!
"TAKE AIM!" - Members of the 1st Special Operations Division take up a firing position to clear some attacking critters.
After a long while hidden away amongst the ruins of Boston, Warrant Officer Andersen makes an appearance!
Peering through the dilapidated streets of Boston's ruins, making out anything can be a challenge between the ruined buildings, the shredded cars, and all the rubble. But there are things out there! And if you want to stay alive, you have to spot it before it spots you!
The Brotherhood of Steel's arrival in The Commonwealth means the sound of vehicles fills the air after over 200 years of absence, as they deploy their Vertibirds across the region!
These tilt-rotor aircraft can takeoff and land vertically, allowing them to deploy and recover resources and troops from small clearings within the rubble and ruins of post-war America.
These tilt-rotor aircraft can takeoff and land vertically, allowing them to deploy and recover resources and troops from small clearings within the rubble and ruins of post-war America.
Despite only having control of a small area of The Commonwealth, it would seem the Commonwealth Regiment has made a name for itself. Perhaps with the intention of closer working ties together, the Brotherhood of Steel dispatched a Vertibird to take the 1st Special Operations Detachment to the Prydwen, to meet with BoS officials!
This unique opportunity gives the 1st SOD the chance to get their hands on some very different weaponry - even if only for a short while!
This unique opportunity gives the 1st SOD the chance to get their hands on some very different weaponry - even if only for a short while!
A look at the cockpit of a Brotherhood of Steel Vertibird. Boasting an all analogue cockpit, the Vertibirds were deployed by the US military before the Great War of 2077, meaning their technology has been frozen in time for over 200 years! The Brotherhood of Steel have done well to keep these relics of the past in working order - but then, that is their speciality.....
A relatively new addition to the Commonwealth Regiment, Robert MacCready has joined the 1st Special Operations Detachment, hoping to prove himself and his skills with the sniper rifle!
Among the 1st Special Operations Detachment, one figure stands out - the only one not wearing a helmet! Curie was Miss Nanny robot conducting science experiments since before the war. Her robot mind now transferred to a de-activated synth, her new form boasts increased resistance to damage over her human counterparts.
Despite this, the Commonwealth Regiment issued helmets were found to interfere with the sensors in her head, and so she was given special leave not to wear one!
Despite this, the Commonwealth Regiment issued helmets were found to interfere with the sensors in her head, and so she was given special leave not to wear one!
Chief Warrant Officer Andersen is the 1st Special Operation Detachment's ranking officer, having been with the Commonwealth Regiment since it's inception. Trained as a combat medic and a skilled shot at long range, she's proven to be a versatile combatant, as well as leader.
For this mission, she'll be testing out a new high-powered sniper rifle found in pristine condition!
For this mission, she'll be testing out a new high-powered sniper rifle found in pristine condition!
As they disembark the Vertibird a short distance away from the mission objective, the first order of business is to secure the landing area. Here, the 1st Special Operations Detachment splits into two fire teams: the first lead by CWO Andersen, and the second lead by Chief Specialist Heather Casdin, the unit's second in command.
After eliminating light resistance in the ruins of Deer Landing, the 1st Special Operations Detachment reconvenes on the main road to continue their mission.
Their objective: Fort Strong. Brotherhood of Steel intel has identified a force of super mutants attempting to access the fort's stores of Mini Nukes - neither the BoS or Commonwealth Regiment can allow this to happen, so working together, they will remove this threat.
Their objective: Fort Strong. Brotherhood of Steel intel has identified a force of super mutants attempting to access the fort's stores of Mini Nukes - neither the BoS or Commonwealth Regiment can allow this to happen, so working together, they will remove this threat.
"Did you hear that???" - Operator Sorenson whips around, thinking she heard something. Thankfully, nothing is there. One of the youngest members of the 1st SOD, Julie Sorenson still gets tense during operations - but her skills as an infiltrator have made her an important part of the 1st SOD!
By contrast, Senior Specialist Lauren Johnstone is the oldest member of the 1st Special Operations Detachment, and one of the oldest in the whole Commonwealth Regiment. Her local knowledge and many years of skills and experiences have proven instrumental to the success of several operations for the 1st SOD since she joined!
The Prydwen is silhouetted against the fog and the sky. Tethered to Boston Airport, this giant airship is the flagship of the Brotherhood of Steel. But the weather is closing in - and fast!
The BoS dropped the 1st Special Operations Detachment into this fight, but this adverse weather means further air support will not be possible. The 1st SOD are on their own now.......
The BoS dropped the 1st Special Operations Detachment into this fight, but this adverse weather means further air support will not be possible. The 1st SOD are on their own now.......
Sometimes having the best of kit doesn't help you when the situation isn't in your favour - with the weather closing in on the 1st Special Operations Detachment, the sniper rifles Andersen and McCready brought along are rendered nearly useless.
Having breached inside the fortress, the 1st Special Operations Detachment gets to work clearing the facility room by room: working together, clearing rooms and corners against a potentially well armed Super Mutant Force!
The Super Mutant - mutated by the Forced Evolutionary Virus, super mutants are large and green in stature, boasting formidable strength and resilience. Despite sometimes being rather dim in intelligence, their other features allow them to overpower unorganised groups when they attack in force.
Despite their strength and resilience, super mutants aren't stupid enough to think they are invulnerable. Whereas human survivors make use of pre-war armours for protection, such things do not fit the hulking super mutants - so they must make do with what they can! This super mutant is wearing a car hub cab as a helmet for protection!
Senior Specialist Johnston works on clearing the various rooms of Fort Strong. In the close-quarters fighting of indoor environments, a lot of the advantages that comes from the Commonwealth Regiment's superior armour, weaponry and numbers are nullified.
In times like these, individual skills, experiences and talents are required to survive!
In times like these, individual skills, experiences and talents are required to survive!
A deadly but thankfully infrequent phenomenon of The Commonwealth is fallout storms. As the distinctive green-hue hits an affected area, small specks of fallout descend from the sky - irradiating anyone unlucky enough to be out in the open!
A fire set to keep someone warm, but no-one there to enjoy it - the fallout storm striking the area forces everyone to shelter, regardless of what it might cost you.
Objective secure, the 1st Special Operations Detachment heads out of Fort Strong. The winter weather still reducing visibility means the planned air extraction from the Brotherhood of Steel is not possible. The squad begins their long journey home on foot.
Harsh winter weather and nighttime make a terrifying combination in The Commonwealth. Seeing or even hearing approaching threats is very challenging - but this reduced visibility works both ways, and a careful squad can traverse hostile territory undetected.
Back home in Sanctuary, Dogmeat enjoys the fresh dusting of snow that's fallen across The Commonwealth!
One advantage of winter time in The Commonwealth is that whatever surviving trees there are have shed their leaves, giving the soldiers defending Sanctuary a clear look at its surrounding areas - and any threats that might be trying to sneak up on the gates!
Back on the road again: the 1st Special Operations Detachment heads out once more! Operators Julie Sorenson and Lilian Stirling take point, clearing the road of any dangers as they advance towards their objective.
As the 1st Special Operations Detachment approaches Cambridge, low and slow becomes the strategy. Despite the Commonwealth Regiment's territorial gains across the Commonwealth, the ruins of Boston and Cambridge remain treacherous, filled with raiders, gunners, super mutants and other threats!
Concord is now a bustling settlement once again: the main civilian settlement of the Commonwealth Regiment, boasting shops, services and even its own police force. But trouble is never far away in The Commonwealth, and the 1st Special Operations Detachment arrives in town to help the authorities track down some settlers in distress.
Under the cover of night the 1st Special Operations Detachment set out to find the missing settlers. Thankfully, the settlers were able to use their cunning to evade the raiders that had spotted and chased them. Linking up with the 1st SOD a short distance out of town, the military escorted them the rest of the way back to Concord.
It seems all the night-time commotion at Concord hasn't gone unnoticed. With howls and screams growing closer and closer, a pack of feral ghouls staggers into view to the south of town.
The 1st Special Operations Detachment joins the Concord Police, fighting side by side to dispatch this menacing threat to the town!
The 1st Special Operations Detachment joins the Concord Police, fighting side by side to dispatch this menacing threat to the town!
Settlers rescued and feral ghouls dispatched, the 1st Special Operations Detachment arrives back in Sanctuary for some rest and relaxation. For Warrant Officer Andersen, one of the perks of leading the detachment is her own home on the station.
Hanging up her combat gear, it time to hit the sofa to take the wright off her feet awhile!
Hanging up her combat gear, it time to hit the sofa to take the wright off her feet awhile!
Life in the Commonwealth Regiment is demanding and dangerous, but it's not without its perks: shops, healthcare services, and of course its chefs preparing hot meals! Specialist Casdin's first port of call back at Sanctuary is to head to the canteen for some good food!
Life in the Commonwealth Regiment is often very stressful, and unfortunately not everyone handles that stress well. Looking after citizens and soldiers alike on base, the Military Police patrols the military bases of the Commonwealth Regiment to keep an eye out for trouble within the walls and fences.
Sanctuary looks a little different long after the war. Most of the old pre-war houses were too unstable to be safely used. After tearing down the ruins, Quonset Huts were erected in their place to provide accommodation for the towns people, soldiers, shops and factories.
Enjoying a few days on base, Julie Sorenson takes advantage of the sunny skies to take a walk around Sanctuary.
Operator Cait and Specialist Lauren watch over the main bridge out of Sanctuary, watching a trade caravan leaving town bound for its next destination.
Sirens sound across Sanctuary as a fallout storm hits the town! On hearing the sirens, everyone must don gas masks and make for the nearest underground shelters for their own protection, waiting there for the storm to pass and the all clear to sound!
Despite the territorial gains and relative safety offered by the Commonwealth Regiment, the Commonwealth remains a dangerous place. Three flags in Concord stand to commemorate fallen soldiers who gave their lives trying to make something better for the Commonwealth.
Not every job in the Commonwealth Regiment is a combat role. From storekeepers to farmers to engineers, a wide variety of professions are needed to keep the CR up and running!
Here, Cpl Merida Aylen leads a caravan out of Sanctuary, brining vital supplies and messages to the other stations and settlements of the Commonwealth Regiment.
Here, Cpl Merida Aylen leads a caravan out of Sanctuary, brining vital supplies and messages to the other stations and settlements of the Commonwealth Regiment.
Curie looks over her shoulder as the 1st Special Operations Detachment heads out of Sanctuary under the cover of the morning mist.
When the Commonwealth Regiment moves out in force, it is a sight to behold! Elements of the 1st and the 6th infantry detachments fill the road out of Sanctuary as they begin their journey to their objective.
A common fly swollen to great size by its mutation, the Bloatfly is a common sight across the remains of North America. A weak enemy on its own, its threat comes from its ability to fire its larva at prey, causing parasitic infections in anything or anyone unlucky enough to get hit.
MacCready & Johnstone scan their surroundings as they wait for the rest of the group to catch up. A large group attracts a lot of attention, so having one or two people "take point" and scout head allows for possible threats to be identified and managed without compromising the entire group.
The desolate remains of a society..... Everyone knew of the tensions facing the world, but no-one knew for sure exactly when the bombs would fall. Buses taking people to work, to school. Trucks hauling cargo across the country. People sitting in offices ready to begin their day.
All completely unaware that the end of the modern era was at hand.....
All completely unaware that the end of the modern era was at hand.....
Even in ruin there is beauty..... The brilliant red skies of the sunrise light up the Boston skyline, the light filtering curiously through through the holes of the city's many ruined buildings.
A sight that says a story..... Out on patrol, the Commonwealth Regiment stumbles across the campsite of a very unlucky person. The tree fell straight onto their sleeping bag, and it was lights out. Some say you need as much luck as you need skills to survive The Commonwealth!
"Huh..... so aliens ARE real!" - Brigette Andersen never quite knew what to make of the rumours of alien sightings and abductions, but coming face to face with a crashed alien spaceship can leave no doubts in her mind!
The 1st Special Operations Detachments resumes their patrol. Led by Specialist Johnstone, they continue southbound. Andersen & Johnstone take the opportunity to catch up, both of them having been a part of the Commonwealth Regiment since its inception, they've become good friends!
A feral ghoul sleeping under a train..... Because when you've been knocking on deaths door for 12 decades but he won't let you in, under a train is as good a place as any......
Dogmeat and the long track ahead..... Once you could travel the length of America by train, passing miles of forests, plains, villages and cities on your journey. Now, the dilapidated tracks cut a quiet trial through what remains.....
Despite the radiation, life finds a way to survive. Radstags are the mutated descendants of deer. Despite two heads (that don't always agree) and frequent lesions, they've found a way to survive. Here, a small herd of Radstags make their way through the woodlands south of Boston.
"What is it Dogmeat???" - Dogmeat's ears perking up was the first sign of trouble. The group noticed, but it wasn't enough warning to avoid the ambush.....
From the treeline, they came fast and hard, catching the 1st Special Operations Detachment off guard, they had to fight back with everything the had to repel the attack. When the gunfire stopped and the air settled, Andersen could hear someone call out for a medic. She and Curie rushed to treat the casualties.
Although the ambush has been repelled, the gunfight made a lot of noise - and anything could be on its way! While the medics tend to the injured, the rest of the squad keep guard, watching out for further threats.
Senior Specialist Lauren Johnstone keeping watch of the surrounding area as the medics finish their treatments and prepare to move the wounded.
Warrant Officer Andersen tries to make out anything on the path ahead from a vantage point, but the weather has closed in. As much as the fog will give the group cover, it does mean they will have to advance with limited information on the road ahead.
The Commonwealth Regiment stumbles across an old military checkpoint - still diligently guarded by a 200+ year old Mr Gutsy, no doubt corrupted by time and damage. Expecting a fight, the 1st Special Operations Detachment slowly sneaks into position.
From within the fog, a strange noise is heard. With a silent understanding shared between them, the 1st Special Operations Detachment crouch, their weapons raised, scanning their surroundings for any sign of trouble.
Scattered all across the Commonwealth, and in what remains of civilisations across the world, are countless stories that never got to be told, that were ended too soon.......
Arriving at University Point, the Commonwealth Regiment find signs recovery within the ruins. The Commonwealth Regiment certainly aren't the first organisation to try to rebuild some form of civilisation from the ashes, but where most have failed, its up to them to try to make sure they succeed!
Ruined buildings & urban debris offer great hiding spots for threats to launch an ambush. Andersen & Dogmeat double time trough the streets until they get to a safer place.
Specialists Blair and MacCready advance towards a target, ready for anything.
"Eurgh, my boots are going to get WETTT!!!"
A walk along the beachfront. One day, people might be able to walk down the beach without the need to be armed, but for this to happen, the Commonwealth Regiment has some work to do!
Nothing says "raider" quite like sitting in your home, in your full raider leathers, wearing a bandana over your face!
As the 1st Special Operations Detachment approaches The Castle, the sounds of gunfire erupts up ahead. The Castle under attack, the 1st SOD advances into position to repel the attackers!
Attack repelled, the 1st Special Operations Detachment runs the remaining distance towards The Castle to assist with any casualties among the defenders.
Out on patrol near Nordhagen Beach, the 1st Special Operations Detachment stumbled upon a hostile force of modified protectrons and other robots, advancing to attack the nearby settlement. Taking up firing positions, they dispatched the attackers.
Nordhagen Beach looking west towards Boston, The Brotherhood of Steel's grand airship, The Prydwen, dominates the sky view - anchored to the remains of the Boston Airport.
The threat to the Nordhagen Beach settlement removed, Martha Stevenson (one of the settlers) thanks Brigette Andersen & the rest of the 1st Special Operations Detachment for their timely assistance!
As the settlement returns to normal, Brigette & Martha catch up on happenings in the area since the Brotherhood of Steel's arrival. Surprisingly, despite the BoS's patrols and the recent supermutant threat from Fort Strong, life for the settlers has been quiet!
As part of the Commonwealth Regiment, the nearby CRS The Castle will continue to keep a vigilant protection of the settlement.
As part of the Commonwealth Regiment, the nearby CRS The Castle will continue to keep a vigilant protection of the settlement.
All done at Nordhagen, the 1st Special Operations Detachment crosses the bridge back towards Boston as they begin the long journey home - no doubt being watched by some of the officers aboard The Prydwen!
One of the latest sniper rifles manufactured before "The Great War" - MacCready's XM2076 saw less than 2 years service before the bombs fell!
Brigette stops to admire The Prydwen across the water. A gigantic vehicle in a world where normal-sized vehicles barely even exist, The Prydwen is a flying fortress that brings the Brotherhood of Steel anywhere on the continent - including the trouble they bring......
Warrant Officer Andersen is less than impressed when the squad has to stop in East Boston after Cait gets a stone her shoe..... Thankfully, their objective complete, they aren't pressed for time - but Brigette would still like to get home!
The bridge towards Bunker Hill, and beyond that, central Boston - or whatever's left of it in 2276!
"Irish Pride Fisheries", complete with a lucky four-leaf clover on top. Here's hoping that proves lucky for the 1st Special Operations Detachment as they move through the area!
No luck! Specialists Johnstone & Curie trigger a mine. In 2276, not every mine is the explosive kind - with the Geiger counters tickin' and clickin' through the roof, they've clearly set off a radiation mine!
"Switching to your pistol is always faster than reloading" - attacked by a sizable force of robots, Andersen runs out of ammo in her rifle, forcing her to dispatch the final eyebot with her trusty Walther P99!
The humble eyebot: a small floating robot, boasting only modest durability and weapons - what sets them apart from their loud, clunky counterparts is the ease with which they can manoeuvre, and their quiet when they do so.
The rust devils have modified eyebots to have better weapons and better armour, and are dangerous foes when used as part of a combined arms attack!
The rust devils have modified eyebots to have better weapons and better armour, and are dangerous foes when used as part of a combined arms attack!
"You know...... I think this radiation apocalypse future we live in has a real roach problem......" Brigette thinks to herself, staring at a massive radroach perched on the window of an abandoned building.
Although the ultimate goal is peace in the Commonwealth, the Commonwealth Regiment understands good military training backed up with strong firepower and good equipment is necessary to deal with the many hazards and threats that inhabit the Commonwealth.
There's always something new in The Commonwealth...... True, Brigette hasn't been "awake" for long since the bombs fell, but she's gotten used to this. Lo surprised is she when a new monstrosity attacks the 1st SOD - a Mirelurk Hunter!
Between the robots and the bugs, the 1st Special Operations Detachment is burning through a lot of ammunition this patrol. Despite the Commonwealth Regiment's "well equipped" appearance, the lack of ammunition remains a constant concern - particularly with only limited ability to make more in this post-apocalyptic world.
While scouting ahead, Brigette Anderson encounters a patrol from the Gunners, who quickly try to extort her for "fees" to pass the road safely. Despite their appearance as a fellow military force, the Gunners are no friends to the Commonwealth Regiment - the Gunners' constant attacks and extortions of settlements across the Commonwealth earning the CR's ire.
"You and what army?" THIS ARMY - Thankfully for Brigette, the rest of her section appears behind her out of the fog, ready for a fight. Now heavily outnumbered and outgunned, the Gunner patrol turns tail and leaves.
Hopefully this show of force will keep them away from the area for a while!
Hopefully this show of force will keep them away from the area for a while!
The Commonwealth is full of weird and not-so-wonderful bugs, but even this, this lime green bloodbug is an unsettling sight for the 1st SOD as they encounter it on their patrol!
Fuel tanks intentionally poured on the ground and littered with mines....... the whole length of the bridge...... Oh, this is a trap alright - and even the slightest wrong move could wipe out the entire detachment!
Another bloodbug - and this one distinctly more alive than the last. Although not strong on their own, bloodbugs, bloatflys, radroaches and other bugs and creatures can all still prove very dangerous to even the best equipped forces - their manoeuvrability combined with their swarm targets make it difficult to take them all down before they get to you!
On the outskirts of Boston stands a manor in the countryside. Shame that the interior of the building is totally destroyed, this could have made a good outpost for the Commonwealth Regiment's missions into the city!
Brigette looks over onto a story that could have so easily been hers - someone who couldn't get to a shelter in time when the bombs fell. The suitcase suggests she may have tried to gather possessions before seeking shelter, costing her the time she needed to survive.
Hidden in a safe, shielded from the trials of radiation and time, the Commonwealth Regiment finds a working camera! The leadership wastes no time in putting it to use to get some propaganda pictures to use to encourage more settlements and settlers to join the CR!
Who better to use as the subject of the first pictures for the Commonwealth Regiment than Warrant Officer Brigette Andersen. As leader of the 1st Special Operations Detachment, WO Andersen has become something of a legend - leading the team that strikes first, providing security and new territory for the Commonwealth Regiment!
Despite the cold weather, its still important for every member of the Commonwealth Regiment to keep their fitness up: Brigette goes for a run through the main road of CRS Sanctuary!
At the end of her run, Brigette takes a sit near the river, letting the cold winter air cool her down as she catches her breath again!
Promotion time! As the leader of the 1st Special Operations Detachment, Chief Warrant Officer Andersen has the privilege of promoting Heather Casdin to the rank of Warrant Officer - in recognition of her services to the 1st Special Operations Detachment and to the Commonwealth Regiment in setting up trade routes.
Now a Warrant Officer, Heather Casdin joined the Commonwealth Regiment shortly after its inception, using her family trade connections to provide the CR with equipment and supplies! In addition, she's also been a close friend to Brigette.
Brigette never quite expected her life to go this way..... From stumbling out of a cryo chamber into effectively a new world, from dishing out promotions as one of the leading members of the Commonwealth Regiment - it's been quite the transition!
Despite finding herself in this role by chance, Brigette feels like she's settling in as a leader - she even looks good in her Warrant Officers uniform!
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