282. Memorandum for the Record0

SUBJECT

  • Minutes of Special Group Meeting, 8 December 1961

PRESENT

  • General Taylor, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Gilpatric, General Cabell
  • General Lansdale attended for items 1 and 2

[Here follows discussion unrelated to Cuba.]

2. Cuba

General Lansdale presented the outline of a program1 designed to overthrow the Castro government. This program is centered around the selection and eventual introduction into Cuba of a nucleus of anti-Castro Cubans; once they are in the country and in a position to operate, then a number of collateral supporting actions would be undertaken.

It was agreed that the immediate requirement was for the selection of a suitable group which could agree on a platform for an eventual new government, and which is willing and capable of carrying out the proposed tasks inside the country. When a selection has been made the program will be discussed further with higher authority.

[Page 696]

It was noted that General Lansdale would report periodically to the Special Group on progress he is making.

[Here follows discussion unrelated to Cuba.]

Thomas A. Parrott2
  1. Source: Department of State, INR/IL Historical Files, S.G. 22, December 14, 1961. Secret; Eyes Only. Prepared by Parrott.
  2. See Document 281.
  3. Printed from a copy that indicates Parrott signed the original.