Naval History and Heritage Command

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

CABLEGRAM SENT     Sept. 26, 1917.

To   Opnav Washington                           Serial No. 671

Prep. By M.O. Appvd. by N.C.T.1

Copies to:    C. of S.; J.V.B.; Mat. Off.2

671. Opnav 475.3 Have conferred with Army authorities in London and after securing statement as to exact coal requirements for immediate future have arranged with Admiralty to deliver fifteen thousand tons at Bordeaux before fifteenth October. Have given BATH orders to expedite discharge at Brest and proceed to Cardiff to load for Army account. BATH will remain in that service until Army is in position to release and the Admiralty have had use BATH to carry equivalent amount between Cardiff and French ports for British account. Assistance of NERO also required. Request NERO be ordered Cardiff soon as available. These arrangements entirely satisfactory to Military Attache4 who has agreed to inform me if further assistance is required. Have expressed my desire to co-operate to fullest possible extent. 20326.

Sims.