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, United States Naval Forces Based in France

CABLEGRAM SENT FEB 13,1918. MJK

To   Comfran Brest.                   Serial No. 930.

Prep. by C1                 SX D.R.

                                  25 D.        

930. Following is quoted from your war diary of 21 January Quote small destroyers will be of no value for offshore work, but will be valuable for relieving the yachts on coastal convoys. This will leave force with 8 Destroyers and 9 torpedo boats which are not seagoing Unquote. Attention is invited to the fact this type of vessel has demonstrated its seagoing capacity by crossing the Atlantic in winter weather, also by making the trip from Manila. They are capable of offshore work to the extent of their radius. One additional 1000-ton destroyer and two 750-ton oil-burning destroyers should join your forces before the end of February. 19513. SIMS.