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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 Admiral William S. Benson, Chief of Naval Operations

Cablegram Sent 22 October 1917.

To Opnav Washington      Serial No. 1024

Via N. C. R. D. 17  Prep. by HIC Appvd. by N.C.T. File No.

Copies to: C. of S., J. V. B.; H. I. C.1

1024. Opnav 209. Recommend location following coastal air stations British Wexford Queenstown Bantry Bay Loch Foyle. France Dunkirk Brest Ile Tudy LeCroisic San Trojan Areachon2 Fromentine. Repair and assembly plant Paulliac. Finishing school Lacanau. Location of remaining four will be determined after Cone arrives in France and investigates situation and requirements. In mean time construction of equipment for all fifteen should proceed. Am authorizing preliminary work to proceed.

Sims.

Source Note: Cy, DNA, RG 45, Entry 517B. Document is: “Subject Copy.” Document reference: “22122.”

Footnote 1: Capt. Nathan C. Twining served as Sims’ Chief of Staff. Cmdr. John V. Babcock acted as Sims’ aide and de facto Intelligence Officer; and Cmdr. Hutchinson I. Cone, commander of Naval Aviation in Europe.

Footnote 2: Arachon Bay on the Southwest corner of France.

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