The Yankee mining squadron

by Reginald Rowan Belknap

OR

LAYING THE NORTH SEA
MINE BARRAGE

BY
CAPTAIN REGINALD R. BELKNAP, U.S.N.
The Squadron Commander

ANNAPOLIS, MD.
THE UNITED STATES NAVAL INSTITUTE
1920

Copyright, 1919
Copyright, 1920
by
J. W. CONROY
Trustee for U.S. Naval Institute

PREFACE

In writing of the “biggest ‘mine planting stunt’ in the world’s history”—to quote a Christmas greeting from Rear Admiral Clinton-Baker, head of the British minelaying force—I have endeavored to make an account that would be readable enough for general interest, largely for the reason that, compared to other operations, our undertaking received scant mention at the time. Its very nature required preparation in quiet and precluded discussion of its progress. Unnecessary technical detail has therefore been suppressed, although much could be written that would be welcomed by those versed in it.