History of the U.S.S. Leviathan, cruiser and transport forces, United States Atlantic fleet / Compiled from the ship's log and data gathered by the history committee on board the ship

by U.S.S. Leviathan History Committee

U. S. S. Leviathan,
April 29, 1919.

From Gunnery Officer
To Commanding Officer,
Via Executive Officer.

1. Forwarded. Recommended that if the ship is required to furnish a gun crew for the proposed Naval Artillery Brigade, this request be favorably considered. The spirit of the gun crew is especially to be commended.

(Signed) A. H. Bateman,
Lieutenant, U. S. N.

The American Artillery referred to was the U. S. Naval Brigade. They served on the Western Front under the command of Admiral Plunkett, United States Navy, and did great credit to themselves and the naval service.

Target Practice

Our first target practice was held November 27, 1917, while returning from our trial trip to Guantanamo, Cuba.

During the time the ship was being prepared for sea at Hoboken, little time was had for drills and preparing the gun crews. However, they were all drilled in their various duties and every effort was put forth to get them in shape.

The practice was held in a choppy sea with a stiff wind blowing and an overcast sky, making it difficult to pick up the targets—two spars, so weighted as to make them float upright. Despite this handicap and the newness of the crews, an excellent score was made.