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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

 

CABLEGRAM RECEIVED

Nov. 4, 1917.

Origin    Opnav, Washington.                     Serial No. 903

Via: N C B 19 D                                        Date No. 16005.

Copies to COS JVB  ECT1

Action referred to

ECT.

Simsadus.

963. Your 1219. Buord2 is preparing to supply 60,000 mines and sinkers destined for area A and C North Sea barrage but slight delay may result from American wire rope manufacturers being heavily burdened by other war requirements. Obtaining 4 mine-layers similar to OLD COLONY but somewhat inferior, 4 others similar to U.S.S. DIXIE, 14 to 15 knots, carrying 1,000 mines or more. Ship fitted with lift from lower track level. 16003.

          Admiral Benson.

          4:00 am.

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

Footnote 1: Capt. Nathan C. Twining, Sims’ Chief of Staff; Cmdr. John V. Babcock, one of Sims’ aides; and Paymaster Eugene C. Tobey, also an aide on Sims’ staff.

Footnote 2: The Bureau of Ordnance.

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