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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

 

Chronological Copy.                          File No. <21/6/4>

Cablegram Received June <9, 1918.> 11409 RES

Origin Opnav Washington                           Ser. No. 7012

CS 9 June

31 ADR

Simsadus.

7012. Our 4440 and 6370.1 For the purpose of increasing efficiency of Submarine Service, Department very anxious to establish at once a desk in this office for submarines similar to that now held by Commander Blakely2 for destroyers. Establishment of head for destroyers working and of one for submarine chasers has expedited the output, flow, and efficiency of these craft. It was the desire of this office that an officer with War Zone experience be detailed and Commander Hart’s3 name was suggested. An early reply requested and if you consider it impracticable to spare Hart who do you suggest from the force under your command. 01009. 7012.

Benson             

Source Note: Cy, DNA, RG 45, Entry 517B. the handwritten date is confirmed by the time/date stamp at the end of the cable.

Footnote 1: These cables have not been found.

Footnote 2: Cmdr. Charles A. Blakely, Staff, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations.

Footnote 3: Cmdr. Thomas C. Hart. Hart was shortly thereafter appointed to the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations.