through the air. Just how effective this expedient is, is known only to
the Navy Department, but the fact that it is retained argues for its
usefulness.

Convoyed merchant vessels steam in a wedge or V-shaped formation. At the
apex is a destroyer, following which is an armored cruiser of the
_Colorado_ or _Tennessee_ type. Astern of the cruiser is another
destroyer, which tows the captive balloon at the end of a very light but
strong steel wire. This balloon-towing destroyer really forms the point
of the wedge formation. Behind it are placed the two diverging lines of
merchant ships, which follow one another, not bow to stern, but in a
sort of echelon position. Down through the centre of the wedge is a line
of armed trawlers, while armed vessels steam outside the V. Somewhat
astern of the convoy is another destroyer, which tows another captive
balloon. As a final means of protection, destroyers fly about on each
wing of The convoy.




CHAPTER XIII

Organization Of The Naval Reserve Classes--Taking Over of Yachts For
Naval Service--Work Among The Reserves Stationed at Various Naval
Centres--Walter Camp's Achievement


In expanding the navy to meet war conditions, the regular personnel was
increased, naval militia units of various States were taken into the
service under the classification National Naval Volunteers, and