Naval History and Heritage Command

Vice Admiral William S. Sims, Commander, United States Naval Forces Operating in European Waters, to Rear Admiral Henry B. Wilson, Commander, United States Patrol Sqaudrons Operating in European Waters

Chronological Copy.

Cablegram Sent 5 March 1918. ROC1

To Comfran, Brest.                    Serial No. 1172

Prep. by C-1       Ap’vd by SX             D.R.

Rec’d     Coded     Cypher 24-D                 Disp’chd

VERY SECRET

1172. Presence of cruiser submarines to westward of Bay of Biscay endangers westbound ships after convoys are dispersed. Records show that thus far cruiser submarines have avoided convoys and have attacked single vessels at sea with guns only. Westbound vessels from French coast should be retained in convoy until beyond waters where cruiser submarines operate. For the present vessels should remain in convoy until dark in vicinity 25th meridian. In sailing single vessels or small convoys from French Coast keep in mind possibility of attack by cruiser submarine. Destroyer escort for protection against small submarines should be handled as at present being dependent on areas of operation of small submarines. 14205.

Sims.