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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

Vice Admiral William S. Sims, Commander, United States Naval Forces Operating in European Waters, to Rear Admiral Henry B. Wilson, Commander, United States Patrol Squadrons Operating in European Waters

Subject Copy.                              File No. <11/12/1>

Cablegram Sent April 8, 1918 MJK     

To   Comfran Brest.                        Serial No. 1659

Prep. by O-1                 SX D.R.

                                  25 D.

VERY SECRET.

1659. Department has decided to sail regular slow Allied convoys every 16 days direct from Hampton Roads for French Atlantic Coast.1 These convoys will break joints with present east coast H.H. convoys. The first convoy will be sailed about April 23 and should reach destroyer rendezvous about 8 May. The escorting cruiser will leave convoy as at present to Westward and radio Brest if convoy is delayed.

     It is intended that convoy from Verdon will be sailed so as to utilize same escort to return with Hampton Roads convoy. It is likely that convoys will not be large. They will contain allied ships for French Atlantic ports only and may be taken to any destination convenient. Sailing date of Verdon convoys for next few weeks should be regulated so that escort can take regular Verdon convoy to westward and meet inbound Hampton Roads convoy. Acknowledge. 17108. 1659

SIMS.    

Source Note: Cy, DNA, RG 45, Entry 517B.

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