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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

Admiral William S. Benson, Chief of Naval Operations, Vice Admiral William S. Sims, Commander, United States Naval Forces Operating in European Waters

11/26/18           

SIMSADUS,      LONDON

     2-H

Your 234.1   Approved procedure outlined.

Paragraph.  It can only be expected for <that> destroyers xx accompanying the Presidents|2| shipsfrom Atlantic Coast will be able to proceed beyond forty degrees <west> longitude. You should, therefore, make arrangements immediately to make contact with this force before original escort separates. Suggest advisability of sending destroyers to fuel at Azores and proceed from Azores to intercept convoy and remain with them until main force under your command makes contact.

Paragraph.  At any event it is necessary to maintain destroyer escort throughout the voyage of Presidents ship.

Paragraph.  Inform me and Opnav how you will meet this situation.

BENSON.       

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

Footnote 1: This cable has not been found.

Footnote 2: Woodrow Wilson. Wilson sailed for Europe on 4 December to take part in the Paris Peace Conference.