In the Adriatic Sea, Captain C. P. Nelson, in command of two squadrons of thirty-six chasers, performed excellent service in strengthening the Otranto barrage at the entrance to that sea, and in operations in support of certain cruiser actions. In one of the latter, a dozen chasers gave splendid support to a combined British and Italian squadron of cruiser in the bombardment of Durazzo. During this action, the chasers not only effectively shielded the cruisers from submarine attack, but destroyed at least two submarines.

The impression their conduct made upon the Allies was well expressed in the congratulatory messages sent to me in London. Commodore Kelly, who commanded the British cruisers in this action telegraphed the details of the attack and added the following reference to the twelve chasters:

"Their Conduct Beyond Praise"

"Their conduct was beyond praise. They all returned safely without casualties. They thoroughly enjoyed themselves."

From the Italian Admiralty came this message:

Italian Naval General Staff expresses highest appreciation of useful and efficient work performed by United States chasers in protecting major vessels during action against Durazzo; also vivid admiration of their brilliant and clever operations which resulted in sinking two enemy submarines."

These records made by our college boys have demonstrated in the most striking manner the great value of educated men in time of national crisis; and we of the navy now know that in the event of another war involving naval expansion we have in these youths a mine of the very best possible war material