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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

Admiral William S. Benson, Chief of Naval Operations, to Vice Admiral William S. Sims, Commander, United States Naval Forces Operating in European Waters

August 18, 1917.        

Admiral Benson                                       Opnav 187

     NC BR                                               20017

Chief of Staff; Babcock; Schuyler.1

Tobey2

From Admiral Benson

To Admiral Sims.

Opnav 187. Bureau of Ordnance has developed mine which it <is> hoped may have decisive influence upon operations against submarine period. Utmost secrecy considered necessary stop. Request that officer representing Admiralty clothed with power to decide be sent <here> and inspect and thoroughly test mine3 <if> found satisfactory arrange for co-operation in mine operation, 20017

Admiral Benson.         

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

Footnote 1: Capt. Nathan C. Twining, Sims’ chief of staff; Comdr. John V. Babcock, Sims' personal aide, and Cmdr. Garret L. Schuyler, in charge of the Ordnance Section on Sims' staff.

Footnote 2: Paymaster Eugene C. Tobey, also on Sims’ staff.

Footnote 3: Lt. Rodolph H. F. de Salis, departed on 22 August to inspect the new mine, designated the MK VI. See: Sims to Benson, 22 August 1917.

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