File:German HQ at ION 2006.JPG

Summary
Photo by Jeff Swaim, on July 15, 2006, at Skirmish USA's Invasion of Normandy paintball scenario game.

The photo depicts the German base and Headquarters. German players stand ready to guard the headquarters.

The caution tape surrounding the base represents “barbed wire,” or “razor wire,” as the rules of the scenario dictate. In this particular scenario only players designated as engineers or demolitions could remove this prop – any player crossing without one of these role-players present is considered “eliminated.” Inside the taped area can be seen artillery props waiting to be used on specific missions, a paintball tank, and the German High Command Tent where the German General and XO work.

Since other teams may attempt sniper missions to assassinate an enemy's General or XO, or attempt all-out assaults on the enemy base, headquarters such as these are guarded with a multi-layered defense. An outer layer usually consists of a few observers or sentinels whose job is to remain on alert for enemy presence near the base. Somewhat closer to the actual headquarters is the base’s thick middle layer defense, which consists of well-trusted players checking other players’ identification as they come and go. Beyond this layer only well trusted players are admitted. Very close to the headquarters (as shown in this photo) are the General and XO’s personal bodyguards and assistants.