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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

Georges Leygues, French Minister of Marine, to Vice Admiral William S. Sims, Commander, United States Naval Forces Operating in European Waters

Marine-Paris to Naval Attache,

          London.1                         November 14th. 1918.

1276.

Kindly transmit to Admiral Sims the following telegram:

     I was profoundly touched by your telegram which reached me at the moment when the hostilities against the Central Empires had ceased, and the fleets were gathering the fruits of four years efforts.

     I have been able to appreciate the brilliant part which you have played personally in the work of the interallied Naval Council, and in the command of the American Naval Forces in Europe. I have already told Admiral Wilson2 what a memory his priceless collaboration will leave to our sailors.

     I shall be glad if you will let all your officers and crews know how much we appreciate the help which the American Navy has given us. The tonnage, the activity and the initiative which they have brought to the common task, have strengthened the old ties which have united our two Navies and which will remain bound, in the future.

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

Footnote 1: Sims also acted as naval attaché in London at this time.

Footnote 2: RAdm. Henry B. Wilson, Commander, United States Naval Forces in France.

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