Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, With the Address of the President to Congress December 5, 1916

File No. 839.00/1844

Admiral Caperton to the Secretary of the Navy

[Telegram—Paraphrase]

Santo Domingo , May 30, 1916, 7.30 p.m.

Have directed landing of United States forces at Puerto Plato and Monte Cristi after consulting with American Minister and in agreement with him to preserve peace and maintain constituted government. Have senior officer present to take such military action only as is necessary to protect United States forces ashore, preserve peace, lives, protection and property of American citizens and other foreigners and to constituted authority. Serious opposition to landing not anticipated.

Caperton