U.S. Naval Operations Department, Admiral Harold Stark looked serious. Although President Roosevelt did not forcefully issue a departure time for the US Navy. However, he felt the urgency of President Roosevelt. Therefore, Admiral Harold Stark still decided to let the American fleet set off as soon as possible, enter the Atlantic Ocean, and have a decisive battle with the German Navy.
"Everyone, the situation on the Russian battlefield is not optimistic. Therefore, we must set off immediately and participate in the war. For the sake of the American Republic, we must defeat the German Navy!" Harold Stark entered will say.
The generals of the U.S. Navy also became very serious. Although, after the U.S. Navy regained its strength, they have not yet fought against the German Navy. But the previous several wars with the German navy made them deeply appreciate the strength of the German navy. In this war, the island navy, which the German navy fought with only two fleets, suffered heavy losses. It can be seen that the German navy has become stronger than before. Although the U.S. Navy is much stronger than the island nation's navy. But it is undoubtedly very difficult to defeat the German Navy.
"Gentlemen, Your Excellency and I have discussed it. The fleet will set off within three days! Are all the fleets ready?" Admiral Harold Stark asked.
"Your Excellency, all fleets are ready to set off at any time!" Admiral James Richardson replied.
"Very well. Then, we will set off on the evening of June 4. Do you have any objections to this?" Admiral Harold Stark asked.
All the generals shook their heads. In fact, they had been ready for battle since a month ago, knowing that this battle would be inevitable. Although the German navy is very powerful, they have been driven to a dead end. So, just try desperately. Even some generals of the US Navy were very excited. If the German Navy can be defeated, then the U.S. Navy will be able to replace the German Navy and become the maritime hegemony. For any admiral, this is undoubtedly a very high honor!
"In this battle against the German Navy, the German Navy's Atlantic Fleet will be attacked according to the predetermined plan. Before the Germans react, they will severely damage or even annihilate the German Navy's Atlantic Fleet in one fell swoop, and win the initiative in the Atlantic Ocean! In this way Only then can we have a greater advantage in the next battle." Admiral Harold Stark said.
All the generals nodded repeatedly. This was originally a plan that had been drawn up.
"General Richardson, who do you think will be in charge of the battle against Germany this time?" General Harold Stark asked. Although he is the chief of operations, the highest official in the Navy. But Admiral James Richardson is the commander of the fleet, and he also has great influence in the fleet. It is also very reasonable to seek the advice of Admiral James Richardson.
"Minister, if possible, I hope to personally command this war. But unfortunately, I am old. My physical condition is also very bad, and I am not allowed to go to sea to fight again." James Richard The admiral had a look of regret.
Although, this naval battle will be very dangerous. But if it can win, it will be able to leave its name in history. If possible, General James Richardson certainly did not want to let go of this good opportunity.
Harold? Stark Admiral smiled.
The other admirals also looked at Admiral James Richardson, wanting to know his choice.
Qualified to command the U.S. fleet is Admiral Nimitz, deputy commander of the fleet, and Admiral Ernest King, commander of the Atlantic Fleet. As for the commander of the main fleet, Admiral Hasben Kimmel, it was a little bit worse.
Admiral James Richardson's gaze was also on Admiral Nimitz and Admiral Ernest King. It was obvious that the candidate was between them.
"Your Excellency, I think Admiral Nimitz is more suitable to command this naval battle. After all, in this naval battle, the aircraft carrier is the main force. Among the many generals, he is very good. If he commands this naval battle, I believe he can definitely bring us a victory!" Admiral James Richardson said.
A hint of excitement flashed in Admiral Nimitz's eyes, but he tried hard to control his emotions and didn't show it.
Admiral Ernest Jin had obvious disappointment on his face.
Admiral Hadro Stark's eyes also fell on Admiral Nimitz.
"General Nimitz, are you confident of defeating the Germans?" Harold Stark Admiral asked.
"Minister, I will do my best to defeat the Germans!" Admiral Nimitz replied.
Admiral Harold Stark nodded: "Then, let General Nimitz be the commander of the war against Germany this time!"
"You must do your best in a humble position!" Admiral Nimitz said excitedly.
The appointment of the Nimitz Fleet as commander was also approved by President Roosevelt.
In order to defeat Germany, the U.S. Navy did its best this time. All capital ships and aircraft carriers will participate in this operation.
The 15 battleships were divided into three battleship formations, under the command of Admiral Hasben Kimmel, who personally served as the commander of the first battleship formation, and the commander of the second battleship formation was Royale Kimmel. Lieutenant General Ingersoll served. The commander of the 3rd battleship formation is Rear Admiral Jonas Ingram.
As for the five aircraft carrier formations, Lieutenant General Halsey served as the commander of the first aircraft carrier formation, Lieutenant General Fletcher served as the commander of the second aircraft carrier formation, and Major General Spruance served as the commander of the third aircraft carrier formation. Major General Frederick Horn served as the commander of the 4th aircraft carrier formation, and Major General Kent Hewitt served as the commander of the 5th aircraft carrier formation.
The commanders of other cruiser formations and destroyer formations were also appointed respectively. This time, the U.S. Navy can be said to have used all its main forces.
"Everyone, let's go back and prepare! Three days later, the fleet will depart from each base!" Admiral Hadro Stark ordered.
"Yes, Your Excellency the Minister!" Everyone replied.
At 9 pm on June 4, the US Navy's 1st aircraft carrier formation, 2nd aircraft carrier formation, 1st capital ship formation, and some cruiser formations and destroyer formations left the Norfolk Naval Base. Other fleets also sailed into the Atlantic Ocean from other bases on the east coast of the United States.