Naval History and Heritage Command

Rear Admiral Newton A. McCully, Commander, United States Naval Forces in Russia, to Admiral William S. Benson, Chief of Naval Operations

25 February 1919.       

     Simsadus London                        1209

PES  NPH

Amnavpar Paris

For Benson.

Following received from Admiral McCully quote In view of probable emergency two more vessels are required on this station, one to be always at Archangel, one at Murmansk and one cruising. Vessels should draw not over 24 feet, have at least four-inch guns for shrapnel effect, economical in coal consumption and with radio capable of sending 500 miles. One vessel should be capable of acting as flagship as facilities on USS Yankton are totally inadequate and for this vessel suggest yacht Niagara. Other vessel should be capable of acting as depot vessel and for this suggest one of USS Denver class. These vessels should arrive in Murmansk before May 1st. Unquote. Recommend approval. See my letter of February 22nd1 relative to Forces required on this station. While the recommendation made therein in regard to forces for Russia are not exactly in accordance with the above, the number of vessels recommended is the same. The judgment of the officer in command on the spot as to his needs should receive first consideration, and I agree with him in his recommendation as to type of vessels. 120925.

Sims