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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

Rear Admiral William T. Sampson, Commander, North Atlantic Fleet, to Secretary of the Navy John D. Long

TELEGRAM

Playa, August 4, 1898.      

     If delay in sailing of the squadron not important, would suggest it or part of it be first sent to San Juan until the city has been captured. Probability of strong resistance from land side at that place. Possibility that its fall may terminate the war. Probability requires two weeks to reach the result by co-operation between Navy and Army. San Juan can be destroyed from the water and may yield without much resistance in a proper show of naval strength.

SAMPSON. 

Source Note: Cy, DNA, RG 80, Entry 194, vol. 1, p. 342. Addressed before opening: “Secretary of the Navy./Washington.

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