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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

CABLEGRAM RECEIVED     January 14022           SFX

OPNAV Washington

27 AD       Jan. 22

     Simsadus

     2345. Your 2855.1 Characteristics for area A adopted as follows. 3 levels of mines 80, 160, 240 [feet], All antennas, too late to modify without causing considerable delay and confusion.2 Much material already manufactured. In view of British acceptance of principle of extension surface mine fields through areas B and C patrol proving defensive ineffective Department will provide requisite mines and sinkers immediately after completion of material for present project about June 1st. What is maxi[m]um current in area B Special type of float must be provided if it exceeds 1½ knots. 17021.

Benson

Source Note: Cy, DNA, RG 45, Entry 517B. Identifying number in columnar fashion: “1/2/A/J.”

Footnote 1: This cable has not been found.