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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

Captain William V. Pratt, Staff, Chief of Naval Operations, to Vice Admiral William S. Sims, Commander, United States Naval Forces Operating in European Waters

Sunday Oct.28

OFFICE OF NAVAL OPERATIONS

Dear Sims) ----

     Only a wee small line,as I haven’t time for much else. Am giving this to Carter1 for you.,and it is strictly for your consumption alone,though it weghs but little in the balance. I am glad the Admiral2 is coming,you will like him as I do, and learn to appreciate that rugged honesty which is the highest compliment I can pay him. God! but we need men like that now-a-days.I am holding the bag while he is gone,and will try to see to it that no man reaches in to steal.The policies he has outlined will be strictly carried out.He is in direct touch with this office,and it only needs a word from him at any time,to start pushing on this end.Your letters have been of more use than you are aware possibly,so if you have the time continue.It helps (and has been the only continuous method) whereby we get the atmosphere of over there.

     The kid is fine so the wife3 says,though I have barely seen him.She even calls him good looking and then says he looks like me.If she had any Irish blood in her I should say she might be trying a little blarney on the old man.My best to you all.It is a great work you are all doing.The U.S. can be d---thankful you are at the helm over there, with a good bunch to help.

Always cheerfully yours,     

W Pratt       

 

Source Note: TLS, DLC-MSS, William S. Sims Papers, Box 9.

Footnote 1: Lt. Andrew F. Carter, aide to the Chief of Naval Operations.

Footnote 2: Adm. William S. Benson, Chief of Naval Operations.

Footnote 3: Pratt’s wife, Louise Johnson Pratt.

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