Skip to main content

Naval History and Heritage Command

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

Cablegram Received      September 2, 1917.

Origin: Chief of Naval Operations.

 

To: Commander in Chief Atlantic Fleet

From Chief Naval Operations.

Opnav 303.    In view of condition and the fact we are sending over so many antisubmarine craft it would seem opportune for England to send a few destroyers to aid the Italians in the Adriatic Sea period. They are very anxious to get this form of assistance period, 18031.1

Admiral Benson.   

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

Footnote 1: Adm. Henry T. Mayo, Commander-in-Chief, Atlantic Fleet, responded to Benson's request herein, informing him that the issue would be discussed at the naval and military conference then being held at Paris. See, Mayo to Benson, 2 September 1917, DNA, RG 45, Entry 517B. At that conference the British agreed to send three destroyers to serve in the Adriatic if the French and Italians sent an equal number. See: Mayo to Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, 6 September 1917.

hide
Related Content
Mediterranean Naval Operations