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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 the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations

30 Nov 1917,  

FROM: SIMS

TO:   OPNAV

          1775 Admiral Wilson1 reports three steam tugs from 60 to 100 feet long and 6 closed lighters for harbor use urgently needed at Brest period. Cannot be purchased there or obtained from French authorities account limited supply and worn out condition period.Have placed before British tug distribution committee but on account of tug shortage committee unable allocate tugs to Brest period.Local purchases apparently impossible except one Norwegian tug at exorbitant price period Can Dept. furnish desired equipment2 23430.

SIMS.         

Source Note: Cy, DNA, RG45, Entry 517B.

Footnote 1: RAdm. Henry B. Wilson, Commander, Patrol Forces in France.

Footnote 2: The same day Adm. William S. Benson, Chief of Naval Operations, reported that armed yachts in route to Gibraltar could be assigned to the French coast if Sims wanted them there. See, Richard H. Jackson to Sims, 30 November 1917, DNA, RG 45, Entry 517B.