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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.

Cablegram Sent May 26, 1918.  TOH

To Comfran, Brest.                           Serial No. 2277

Prep. by M-4                  NCT1  D.R.

                                     33 ARD

VERY SECRET

2277. Your 2329.2 U.S. Naval expedition for service on shore in France consisting of five 14-inch gun railway mountings with complete train for each gun and mount will be shipped to France about June 1st.3 Originally intended operate with British Army, now probably operate with United States Army. Expedition under command Captain Plunkett,4 Navy will furnish all personnel for erection operation and supply. Cable just received from Navy Department designates St. Nazaire port debarkation subject approval Pershing.5 Space and facilities for erection with crane capable lifting maximum lift 178300 pounds required. Until otherwise instructed refer all inquiries concerning this matter to me. 09116.

2277

                    Sims

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

Footnote 1: Capt. Nathan C. Twining, Sims’ Chief of Staff.

Footnote 2: This cable has not been found.

Footnote 3: For more on the railway batteries, see: Sims to Wilson, 28 May 1918.

Footnote 4: Capt. Charles P. Plunkett.

Footnote 5: Maj. Gen. John J. Pershing, Commander, American Expeditionary Forces. Pershing’s reply has not been found.

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