Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, Cuba, Volume VI

468. Memorandum From the Joint Chiefs of Staff to the Secretary of Defense (Gates)¹

JCSM–72–60

Washington, March 2, 1960.

SUBJECT

• U.S. Action in Cuba

1. The government of Cuba appears to be following the path of International Communism. The establishment of a government in Cuba controlled by the International Communists would present a direct threat to the security of the United States and would serve as a base for the further spread of Communist influence in the Western Hemisphere. The United States should, therefore, initiate now a program of positive action to re-establish a stable, friendly, non-communist government in Cuba.

2. The Joint Chiefs of Staff believe that the actions recommended in the attached study² can contribute towards achieving the above stated aim, and would also contribute to any future action that may be required to reduce unrest and thwart the establishment of International Communism in Latin America.

3. It is recommended that the attached study be introduced into the National Security Council for consideration.

For the Joint Chiefs of Staff:

Arleigh Burke
Chief of Naval Operations

1. Source: Washington National Records Center, RG 330, OSD Files: FRC64 A 2093, Cuba 091. Secret.
2. Not printed; it is entitled “Study and Recommendations for U.S. Action in Cuba,” February 2, 1960, and is virtually identical to the enclosure to Document 466.