and has developed new arms not known when the war started. The Air
Service, the Tank Corps, the development of heavy mobile artillery, the
proper organization of divisions, corps, and armies, all will be set
forth in the scheme which will be submitted to you with the
recommendation that it be transmitted for the consideration of Congress.

The conduct of the American troops in France, their progressive
development in military experience and ability, the fine staff work, and
the modesty and gallantry of the individual soldier is a matter of pride
to all Americans. General Pershing and his command have earned the
thanks of the American people.

The work of General Tasker H. Bliss as military representative of the
War Department with the American Section of the Supreme War Council at
Versailles has been of the greatest value to the War Department.

I cannot close this report without making of record the appreciation of
the War Department of the work of the many trained and patriotic
officers of the army whom the destiny of war did not call to France.
These officers, forced to remain behind in the United States by the
imperative necessity of having trained men to keep the machine moving,
have kept up their work with such intelligence, zeal, and devotion to
duty as to show a high order of patriotism. The officers and men who
have not been able on account of the armistice to be transported to
France deserve also, with their comrades in France, the thanks of the
American people.

CHAPTER LVIII

GENERAL PERSHING'S OWN STORY
[Footnote: From General Pershing's official report to the Secretary of
War. November 20, 1918]

Immediately upon receiving my orders I selected a small staff and
proceeded to Europe in order to become familiar with conditions at the
earliest possible moment.

The warmth of our reception in England and France was only equaled by
the readiness of the commanders-in-chief of the veteran armies of the
Allies and their staffs to place their experience at our disposal. In
consultation with them the most effective means of co-operation of
effort was considered. With French and British armies at their maximum
strength, and all efforts to dispossess the enemy from his firmly
intrenched positions in Belgium and France failed, it was necessary to
plan for an American force adequate to turn the scale in favor of the
Allies. Taking account of the strength of the central powers at that
time, the immensity of