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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, Patrol Squadrons Based in France

Aug 29. 1918   LGR      

Comfran Brest.                               [Serial No.] 5644

     O-1                    SX

                                45 ARD

SECRET.

5644. URGENT. Routes followed thus far by cruiser submarines1 to and from North America[;] cross 20th meridian between Latitude 53<°>.30<'> and 55<°>.30<'> N.; cross 25th meridian between Latitude 49.30 and 53.30 N.; cross 30th meridian between Latitude 45.30 and 51. N; cross 40th meridian between Latitude 42.30 and 45.30 N.; cross 45th meridian between 40.30 and 42.30 N.; cross 50th meridian between Latitude 40. and 42.30 N.; cross 60th meridian between Latitude 38.30 and 42. N.; cross 65th meridian between Latitude 38.30 and 41.30 N.

          The only variation from foregoing was in case of first cruiser submarine which crossed in May. This submarine followed normal route on return and normal route on westward trip as far as 45th meridian, then passed 50th meridian Latitude 38., 55th meridian Latitude 35., 60th meridian Latitude 35., 65th meridian Latitude 36. 201729 5644.

SIMS.                   

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

Footnote 1: That is, German U-boats designed for long-range operations.

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