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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 Captain Joel R. Poinsett Pringle, Chief of Staff, Destroyer Flotilla

Subject Copy.                                File No <4-2-13>

Cablegram Sent July 31, 1918. TOH

To   Melvus,Queenstown                      Serial No. 2459

Prep. by CS   NCT                  D.R.

                                        31 ARD

SECRET

2459. Department is contemplating sending three battleships to base at Berehaven.1 Report as soon as possible whether dreadnoughts of the PENNSYLVANIA type can reach the anchorage behind Bere Island considering both navigational conditions and boom defenses. Would the existing nets and booms furnish security against submarines for battleships lying at this anchorage?2 13431 2459

Sims

Source Note: CCy, DNA, RG45, Entry 517B. Stamped after close: “13431.”

Footnote 1: Berehaven, Bantry Bay is located approximately twenty miles southwest of Queenstown (Cobh, Ireland). Bantry Bay was a large shared sheltered anchorage for destroyers on patrol and escort duties. The British also maintained fuel and storeships there. See: Still, Crisis at Sea: 341.

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