Skip to main content
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 the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations

To: OPNAV.

April 26, 1918.   

<7117.> Your 5324.1 For vessels in coal trade between England and France consider following as minimum requirements:- One gun captain petty officer, five gun crew including one signalman if possible, two radio men. Total 8 to man one gun mounted aft. Some assistance from ship’s crew might be given in passing ammunition.

For vessels already fitted armed guard of 13 men decided on by Department will be useful if sufficient personnel is available.

SIMS.        

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

Related Content