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

 

     CABLEGRAM SENT.         7 December 1917.

     Opnav Washington                  1934

M-4                NCT1

                                      19 ADR

VERY SECRET

1934. Admiralty discussing shifting barrage to Orkney Bergen line certain strategical advantages principal among which greater freedom [word obliterated] Grand Fleet in North Sea, increased distance enemy bases, patrol work facilitated. One disadvantage is greater depth proposed new United States area. Now averages slightly over 70 fathoms requiring considerably longer mooring lines than originally. Admiralty has always intended mining area “C” without United States assistance both present scheme and proposed new scheme. Department should go ahead on ba<s>is of mining area “A” only. Admiralty further consulting Commander in Chief Grand Fleet but because urgency and pending his reply they inquire Department in regard agreeing change barrage line as far as Department may care to express theses views now. Written report next mail.2 <00308.>

Sims

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

Footnote 1: Capt. Nathan C. Twining, Sims’ chief of staff.

Footnote 2: This report has not been identified.

Related Content