John J. Pershing to Woodrow Wilson

Permit me to thank you most cordially for the very kind message brought me personally by your nephew, Major Wilson. It is more than gratifying to know that you impose in me the confidence which your words convey. While I have felt sure of it from the beginning, this direct message has given me new encouragement.

I have not for a moment failed to realize the tremendous task that has been allotted to me, and in my humble way try to realize to the utmost my obligations to you and to the American people.

The splendid army that you have sent so rapidly is an inspiration to our allies. With sufficient training and under young and vigorous leaders, the fighting qualities of our men will be unequalled in Europe. I sincerely trust that the War Department may exert every effort to send a sufficient force to end the war next year and profit by the splendid spirit of aggressiveness that prevails throughout the country and throughout the army.

I can see no other end than a victorious one, and strongly endorse your view that we must fight on until we bring Germany completely to her knees.

I am happy to say that our relations with the other allies are most cordial. With the principle of unity of command established, the cooperation among the armies is quite satisfactory.

With my prayers for your personal welfare and the continued success of your administration, also with a new pledge of the patriotic support of the army in France, I again thank you for your kind message and extend to you expressions of my sincere loyalty and devotion.Believe me, with high esteem and admiration,

Pershing