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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

Admiral William S. Benson, Chief of Naval Operations, to Secretary of the Navy Josephus Daniels

16 Nov. [1917]    

From C N O

To:  Secnav.

1490. My recommendation in dispatch fourteen zero five regarding changes in naval attache1 made after reference to American ambassador2 who fully approves period. Is it understood that Sims3 will have additional duty as Naval attache and will be subordinate to American ambassador only in such matters as would ordinarily in peace time come under Naval attache period. This change does not or cannot affect the status of Admiral Sims as senior officer in these waters.4

     Referring your ten eight nine5 do not recommend Captain Jones for appointment Holland as this duty should be performed by a younger and more active officer.6 He would do well for Japan if a suitable retired officers is not available. BENSON.

SIMS.    

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

Footnote 2: Walter H. Page.

Footnote 3: VAdm. William S. Sims, Commander, United States Naval Forces Operating in European Waters.

Footnote 4: Sims officially became the United States Naval Attaché in London on 10 December 1917.

Footnote 5: This document has not been located.

Footnote 6: Capt. Hilary P. Jones. Daniels ultimately agreed with Benson’s recommendation here, appointing Lt. (j.g.) Eugene D. McCormick as United States Naval Attaché in The Hague, instead.

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