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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

Admiral William S. Benson, Chief of Naval Operations, to Lieutenant Commander Walter M. Falconer, Commander, Wadena

NAVY DEPARTMENT

OFFICE OF NAVAL OPERATIONS

WASHINGTON

<March 18, 1918,>

From:     Chief of Naval Operations,

To:       Commanding Officer, U.S.S. Wadena.

Via:      Commandant Sixth Naval District.1

SUBJECT:  Movement Order.

     1.   When in all respects ready for sea, proceed from Charleston, S.C. to Bermuda, with the following vessels

U.S.S. Wadena

S. C. #179

U.S.S. MONTGOMERY

215

U.S.S. LYKENS

224

U.S.S. CONESTOGA

226

227

S.C.# 94

324

      95

337

     147

           338

     151

  351

     2.   It is imperative that every precaution be taken to prevent vessels from becoming separated from the convoy as such an event is liable to be attended by the most serious consequences. Methods to prevent vessels from losing touch with the convoy will be carefully planned, and the movement order to your force will contain specific instructions on this subject.

     3.   It is intended that the submarine chasers will proceed to Bermuda un<d>er their own power. In case of emergency, submarine chasers under your command can be taken in tow by some vessel of the convoy. Upon arrival at Bermuda, and as soon as necessary, repairs can be completed, you will institute a thorough system of drills and instructions for the crews of the submarine chasers under your command. It is the Department’s opinion that the ultimate success of the dispatch of these vessels to distant service depends largely upon the training given to the crews at Bermuda.

     4.   Upon arrival at Bermuda, and as soon as the MONTGOMERY, LYKENS and CONESTOGA are in all respects ready for sea, you will direct these vessels to proceed to Hampton Roads, Va. and report by dispatch to the Department for further orders.

Wm. S. Benson.

Source Note: Cy, DNA, RG 45, Entry 517B. These orders are on Office of Naval Operations stationery. Someone has handwritten “Secret” in large letters in the top left-hand corner.

Footnote 1: Capt. Benjamin C. Bryan.

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