PM–33. Editorial Note
On February 18, 1960, at the 435th meeting of the National Security Council, Allen Dulles, the Director of Central Intelligence, discussed the situation in Panama. According to the memorandum of discussion, Dulles
“said we must be prepared for a new eruption of violence over the flag issue. Student, labor and other groups were planning a new “sovereignty march” into the Canal Zone. Such a march might take place on March 1, which is Constitution Day and a good day for demonstrations. A new demonstration would probably receive broader public support than previous demonstrations. Moreover, it had been indicated that the National Guard of Panama would not intervene. Secretary Herter said he was worried by this March date, particularly as the President would be in South America at that time.” (Eisenhower Library, Whitman File, NSC Records)