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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 the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations

 

Chronological Copy.                          File No. <31-7-3>

Cablegram Sent    30th July <1918> EWC

To   Opnav, Washington                  Serial No. 2037

Prep. by CS                        D.R. NCT.

                                             Clear.

2037. On account of increasing number of cases of collision between United States vessels and foreign vessels in European Waters and cases of other character in which legal questions and possible damages are involved, it has become necessary that there be attached to London Headquarters some person of legal knowledge and training particularly qualified in Admiralty law, who may intelligently advise me in such matters and may engage local legal assistance when it may be necessary. Request that a suitable person be detailed and sent as soon as convenient.1 It is suggested that a civilian with the necessary knowledge be enrolled in the Naval Reserve with rank not less than Lieutenant Commander. It is probable that more than one such advisor will be needed eventually but at present one would <b>e sufficient. 19130. 2037.

Sims.    

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

Footnote 1: By the end of the war, Sims’ staff included a Legal Section consisting of two officers, Cmdr. W.H. McGann (ret.) and Lt. Cmdr. R.K. Wright (R.F.).

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