161. Telegram From the Joint Chiefs of Staff to the Commander in Chief, Atlantic (Dennison)0
Washington, April 20,
1961, 7:46 p.m.
JCS 994569. Bumpy Road. Exclusive for Adm Dennison. Info RAdms Clark, Smith, McElroy and OʼDonnell from Gen Gray.
- 1.
- Following is in order to indicate continuing US support for the counter revolutionary committee and for a Free Cuba.
- 2.
- Take charge CEF ships and personnel and get them safely to Vi-eques. Navy on-scene commander can relay message to CEF ships via me.
- 3.
- Conduct destroyer patrol off Blue Beach tonight for possible evacuation of survivors and instruct CO he is authorized to ground his ship if it will facilitate mission. Use of amphib ship and craft authorized in addition to DD if desired. Repeat patrol tomorrow night approaching area within sight of land but outside gun range prior darkness. Provide air cover. Rules of engagement during patrols same as before.
- 4.
- Mallardʼs boss has directed CEF ships to divert to Vieques. They may require logistic support in addition to protection.
- Source: Kennedy Library, National Security Files, Countries Series, Cuba, Subjects, Taylor Report. Top Secret; Operational Immediate; Limited Distribution; Exclusive. Repeated to CTG 81.8, COMCARIBSEAFRON, COMKWESTFOR, and COMNAVBASE GTMO. In a telephone conversation with Commander Tazewell Shepard on April 21 Admiral Burke indicated that this order originated with President Kennedy, who was “deeply anxious” to rescue CEF survivors. (Naval Historical Center, Area Files, Bumpy Road Materials)↩