REVOLUTIONARY ACTIVITIES26 of July MovementCOUNTER-REVOLUTIONARIES AND AGENTS
Carlos Prio
Arms Shipments to Cuban Rebels
Charles William Hormel
Other Northamericans Supporting the Rebels
Protests by the Cuban Government
Paul HughesPOLITICS AND INTRIGUE
Austin Young
William Morgan
John Meckpless Espiritto
Rafael del Pino
Rolando Masferrer
Robert Fuller
Manuel Ray
US-Cuba Relations
MAAG - Cuba
Papal Intercession
Assassinations and Plots
Bay of Pigs
Missile Crisis
REVOLUTIONARY ACTIVITIES
26 of July Movement CASTRO has more than enough men, arms and ammunition already in Oriente Province to defeat the Army provided that his men are led by trained ex-Army officers. Revolutionary Activities (Evaluation of Report: B-2), July 31, 1956
Embassy considers present support of Castro by revolutionary groups basically more for him as figurehead than as personal leader. Reservations concerning him and reluctance follow him blindly noticeable even in 26 July Movement. He apparently regarded with antipathy by armed forces. Emnbassy therefore considers Castro important but probably not dominant factor political scene if Batista removed. Secret Telegram from U.S. Ambassador to Secretary of State, March 14, 1958
Rebels, commanded by Camilo Cienfuegos in North and Che Guevara in South, were only ostensibly under direction Fidel Castro, actually taking orders directly from Juan Marinello and other Communist leaders. Communist cells were being quickly organized in villages, Communist pamphlets and literature distributed and other methods typical of Communist guerrilla occupation were being seen. Comments of Col. John Kieffer re Opposition, Dec. 31, 1958
Carlos Prio Tengo el honor de relacionarle a continuación, las actividades de índole insurreccional que ha desarrollado hasta el presente CARLOS PRIO SOCARRAS, según datos que obran en nuestros Archivos. SIM Report on Carlos Prío Socarras, August 5, 1957 seven pages
Proyecto de bombardeo aereo a la Habana, Oct. 5, 1957
Informing you that in the testimony set forth by the prisoner ex-2nd Lieutenant (P.A.) Rafael Castro SAN ROMAN, in the different interrogations to which he has been submitted, since his arrival at Havana from Miami, whence he came on a secret mission to convey final instructions to insurgent elements in this capital, committed to cooperate in the subversive movement which is being organized in said city of Miami under the direction of Dr. Carlos PRIO Socarrás there appear among other things the following: that ex-President Carlos Prio Socarrás has organized an aerial attack on Camp Columbia and other military objectivees in Havana for next October 10 ... that the planes destined for the bombardment of military objectives in Havana will be piloted by Daniel Vasquez, the brothers Roberto and Guillermo VERDEGUER BOAN and other Cuban and foreign pilots whom they have contracted Plot for Aerial Bombing of Habana from Florida, Oct. 8, 1957
...the Embassy had received a call from the Minister of State Guell today to the effect that Cuban exiles in Haiti have three (3) aircraft which are to be used in operations against Cuba and that four (4) additional aircraft are to be purchased in the United States by Haiti with funds supplied by Carlos Prío. In the same conversation, Dr. Guell stated that Prío recently had given Duvalier a half million dollars as a pre-payment for favors after he becomes Haiti's president. Prío Followers Use of Haiti as a Base of Operations, October 10, 1957
Cuban Consul General Miami Hernández informed me Prío bought in name Golden Wing Flying Club three P-51s -- one December 10 at Phoenix, Arizona; two January 11 auction sale from US Government at San Bernardino, California -- extra gasoline tanks to be removed for bombs. Planning February 11 purchase one B-26 at San Bernardino. Prío bought home in Houston, Texas. Arms, rifles, medicines, machine guns, bandoliers are being shipped Houston for future expedition. Secret Telegram from U.S. Ambassador to Secretary of State, January 21, 1958
GOC is informed that arms purchased by Prio in Europe are being stored at 700 North Drive, Miami, Florida, for shipment to Cuban rebels via S.S. "Oriente", vessel belonging to Isle of Pines company which has offices at that address. GOC request U.S. authorities take measures to prevent such shipment. Telegram from U.S. Ambassador to Secretary of State, Oct. 20, 1958
Arms Shipments to Cuban Rebels ... the same three men returned on either February 26 or 27 to Ciudad Trujillo with about 8,000 pounds of arms and ammunition, a few Belgium (sic) and Australian rifles. The CDA plane was described as a C-46 type craft, numbered HI-14. The source anticipated there would be several similar trips in the future, adding that this material would be used in an attempt to overthrow the present government. ... The source said he had been recruited in Miami in November 1956 and that upon arrival in the Dominican Republic during the same month, he was asked to sign some papers pertaining to the Cuban Expeditionary Army of Liberation. He said the Cuban trainees speculated that either Carlos Prio Socarras, exiled former President of Cuba, or Fidel Castro, leader of the July 26th movement in Cuba, was the real leader of the movement for which they were training. Cuban Revolutionary Activity, April 11, 1957
He said he had spoken with a number of Cuban exiles recently and learned that efforts on the part of the opposition to reach agreement with the Castro forces had met with complete failure. Castro is in no mood to reach an agreement he said, presumably because he believes that his efforts alone will cause the downfall of Batista and he wants to be in a position to dictate his own terms. Along this line, Dr. Piad informed me that he had had a long conversation with the pilot, a man named Verdeguer, who had brought a load of arms by plane from Costa Rica to a Castro-controlled airport near the Sierra Maestra. The pilot he said had spent two weeks with the Castro forces and found them to be confident, well-fed, well-armed and with a strength he estimated at 2,000 men. He quoted the pilot as saying he saw considerable modern equipment including a number of 81-mm. United States-manufactured mortars. His informant told him that Castro was receiving equipment from the outside constantly. Cuban Political Affairs, June 18, 1958
A press report today mentons various contraband arms shipments from Haiti having been smuggled into Oriente Province, Cuba for use of Cuban rebels. Baudilio Castellanos, a Cuban lawyer from Santiago de Cuba, is said to be in charge of a group in Haiti which arranged the dispatch of the arms. ... The Embassy's comments on the possible connection between the reports and the alleged subversive activities in Haiti of U.S. Citizen James Barton Underwood and Mexican Alberto BAYO Giraud would be appreciated. Suspected Shipments of Arms to Cuban Rebels from Haiti, July 22, 1957
My informant of yesterday said that during a conversation with Fidel Castro the latter indicated that the purchase of arms in the United States was becoming too costly because of confiscations at that end. Castro indicated that, besides getting arms from one or two Latin American countries, he was getting a better value for his money by purchasing arms direct from various Cuban army sources. Importation of Arms by the Rebels, Dec. 30, 1958
Charles William Hormel Charles William HORMEL, pilot of the plane carrying arms and ammunition to the rebels which crash landed at the U.S. Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay on the night of August 16, 1958, showed up at the Embassy on August 19, 1958. He was interviewed at length by the reporting officer. Mr. Hormel said that this was the twenty-eighth trip that he had made to Cuba in the past year flying in arms and ammunition for the rebels. All previous trips had been highly successful. His landings included both the Sierra Maestra and the Sierra Cristal. He indicated that early last week he had flown in 100 M-1 rifles and 30,000 rounds of ammunition to Fidel Castro in the Sierra Maestra. Early in the course of the conversation I gathered that Mr. Hormel had come to the embassy looking for assistance to leave the country without being detained by the Cuban police. ... With respect to what the Embassy might do for him, I made clear that the Embassy could not assist him in avoiding Cuban jurisdiction. I went on to explain that since his case fell within the area of responsibility of the Consul General, he should go to see him. I explained to him how he might get to the Consul General's Office but did not take him down. He left my office at approximately 1:30 p.m. Charles William HORMEL, Aug. 22, 1958
On night Aug 16 an Aero Commander Model 506 A crash landed GTMO Bay within Base area. Footsteps leading from beach area to perimenter fence of Base. Crew not yet located. Two passports recovered belonging Charles Wilhelm HORMEL (US passport #908582) and Enrique Jose COBREY y Santario (Cuban passport #13997). They apparently pilots. When plane salvaged following items found: 25 Thompson Submachine Guns ... Plane also carried at least 8 parachutes presumably for dropping cargo; flight log showing last entry ETA Miami August 13; and 39 red, black and yellow arm bands with Directorio Revolucionario and white number 13 printed thereon. Telegram from Braddock to Secretary of State, Aug. 18, 1958
Other Northamericans Supporting the Rebels According to the report, this vessel disappeared en route and later turned up at a point on the Florida coast under the command of Cuban insurrectionaries. ... Cay Sal had been leased for 99 years several years ago by Clarence Moody, a wealthy Miamian, and that since that time Mr. Moody is understood to have constructed a small yacht basin and landing strip on the island to be used by sport fishermen. Disappearance of U.S. Yacht -- Possible Use by Cuban Revolutionaries, July 26, 1957
Mr. Braddock stated the Minister Guell had expressed the interest of the Cuban Government in questioning Mr. Trenor, an American citizen who has been involved in Cuban revolutionary activities. He is now at our base at Guantanamo. Desire of GOC to Question American at Guantanamo Naval Base - Revolutionary Developments, January 13, 1958
Press sources and business contacts have informed Department that Joe Ferrer identified as owner Contretera Nacional was arrested Habana yesterday for suspected revolutionary activity and is being interrogated by Colonel Ventura Policia Nacional. Telegram from State Department, Dec. 4, 1958
See also America's Yanqui Fidelistas, The Miami Herald, January 10, 1999
Protests by the Cuban Government Guantánamo Base reports Marine R4Q aircraft which departed Base this morning for U.S. was forced down at Santiago by Cuban Air Force at 9:30 a.m. ... General Cantillo had ordered all unidentified aircraft over Sierra Maestra intercepted, but will authorize flights from Base westward over Santiago if advance flight plans filed. R4Q aircraft did not obtain prior clearance. Telegram from Ambassador Smith to Secretary of State, circa July 1958
You requested that the contents of this Note be communicated to my Government, with your renewed representation that steps be taken to put a stop to the seditious actions of Cuban revolutionaries in the United States, and that an investigation be undertaken to determine how Guillermo Ramon Verdaguer Boan was able to receive assistance at the Guantánamo naval Base after the crash of the plane in which he was traveling with a cargo of arms and ammunition for rebel forces in the Oriente. Letter from U.S. Embassy to Cuban Prime Minister Gonzalo Guell, Aug. 29, 1958
Memorandum from Ministerio de Estado, Sept 19, 1958
Memorandum from Ministerio de Estado, Oct. 13, 1958
El Ministerio ha tenido conocimiento de que el 12 de septiembre próximo pasado atterizó en la Base Naval de Guantánamo un avión CESSNA, piloteado por Antonio Samson, exilado político cubano y ex-piloto de la Compañía Cubana de Aviación, con un pasajero a bordo. Memorandum from Ministerio de Estado, Oct. 20, 1958
Memorandum from Ministerio de Estado, Oct. 27, 1958
Memorandum from Ministerio de Estado, Oct. 28, 1958
Memorandum from Ministerio de Estado, Oct. 30, 1958
Ministry of State Memorandum on Alleged Ferrying of Arms to Rebels, Nov. 1, 1958
COUNTER REVOLUTIONARIES AND AGENTS
To this memorandum I am attaching a letter addressed to Mr. Allan Dulles by Dr. Tony Varona in which he asks for a private meeting with Mr. Dulles. ... Since the Cubans cannot seem to get together behind an opposition leader voluntarily they wish that CIA would assume a more positive direction of the opposition. Of course I do not know that CIA is involved with these opposition groups although opposition representatives speak freely of CIA activities and Tony Varona speaks of young men who really don't know the score and yet keep him on a tight rein. If CIA has any interest in the successful functioning of the Frente, Alianza and the Ray group, I have the firm impression that it must assert a more vigorous role in the direction of these activities. The Functioning of Cuban Opposition Groups in the United States, December 12, 1960
Paul Hughes 
The home of Captain Hughes was headquarters for an invasion force to invade Nicaragua. There are about 200 persons involved, mostly Nicaraguan students, from Miami University and Washington Catholic University in the United States. Approximately 50 of the group have been arrested, although the reporting officer personally saw only about 20, including the three Americans and one British subject. WELFARE/WHEREABOUTS: Americans under detention - Paul HUGHES, Joseph BARDOR, and Efren R. Pichardo, July 1, 1959
See FBI Report, Bureau File (p05-72805) for report on Paul Joseph Hughes and Matthew Duke, suspected of cane burning flights over Cuba. These reports covered by SY memo of 3/18/60) Note: Hughes lost his US nationality in October 1959 due to being member of Cuban Air Force. File - Air Incursions, March 24, 1960
Embassy suggests following reply be made to Cuban note in question: "Excellency: I have the honor to refer to Your Excellency's Note of October 13 protesting against an armed expedition which is said to have disembarked in Oriente Province on October 5, proceeding from Florida, and including amony its components three United States citizens, Anthony Zarba, Paul Hughes and Allan D. Thompson. "The United States Government neither countenanced nor associated itself with this invasion attempt against Cuba. Three Americans who participated in this venture paid for their rashness with their lives. They were sentenced to death and were executed in summary court martial proceedings in which little or no opportunity was given them for the preparation of their defense and in which the courts acted more like prosecutors than judges. Their bodies, after the executions were carried out, were denied to their nearest of kin for proper burial. Telegram from Ambassador Bonsal to Secretary of State, October 22, 1960
See also A Disappearance ... Revolution And The Family, by Christy Hughes Cox
Austin Young At the present time there are approximately 460 members of this anti-Government organization, 300 of whom are now at liberty in Habana. Approximately 100 are still held in prison and 70 members of the organization under Luis Lara Crespo, an ex-corporal of the Batista Army, are now in the hills of Pinar del Rio and have already fought several engagements against the Cuban Army. ... According to Mr. Young, this group was approached by a member of the abortive coup betrayed by Comandantes William Morgan and Eloy Gutierrez Menoyo. When told that Morgan was heading the plot, Young's group refused to become involved. Apparently, this group now plans to concentrate its forces in the hills of Pinar del Rio, and according to Young, 200 men will be sent into the hills to join the unit under Lara within the next few weeks. American Citizen Reports Existence of Counterrevolutionary Group, August 26, 1959
While visiting Austin YOUNG on October 4 at Pinar del Rio Prison, the English speaking officer, Captain Pitaluga, left the room for a few minutes. Young took this opportunity to tell me that his organization was still intact. Although 25 had been arrested, he said, there were still 5000 active members. Austin YOUNG, American citizen under detention in Pinar del Rio charged with counter-revolutionary activities, October 5, 1959
William Morgan Information recieved Embassy and Attache past several days indicates existence conspiracy aimed overthrow GOC by assassination Fidel and Raul Castro, plus defection and uprising portion armed forces in combination invastion from Dom. Rep. William Alexander Morgan reportedly key factor, claiming controls 4,000 armed men. Secret Telegram from U.S. Consulate, Santiago de Cuba, July 31, 1959
Morgan house in Habana under heavy army guard beginning night Aug 8. Understand house raided, found large cache arms and some Batista men inside. Whereabouts Morgan unknown. Telegram from US Embassy to Secretary of State, August 10, 1959
Morgan apparently not in Habana. Reliable source says he landed by yacht at Casilda near Trinidad on south coast sometime August 7-8. Yacht landed Morgan, Capt. FNU Betancourt representing Pedraza and two others and large quantity arms. Yacht now returned Miami, and captain reportedly says Morgan party met by approximately 250 men. Source feels Dom Rep intelligence service, particularly Consul General Miami, still insisting Morgan loyal to Trujillo. Telegram from Habana Embassy to Secretary of State, August 11, 1959
Reliable source states conspiracy essentially that outlined Embtel 275. Tellaeche to be President, Caiñas Milanes Prime Minister, Ramon Mestre Gutierrez Vice Pres (he son law prominent local American resident Alec M. Roberts. No indication to date Roberts implicated.) Chief Armed Forces Comandante Blanco or Comandante Medel. Assassination Fidel and Raul Castro and Camilo Cienfuegos also planned. Conspiracy included Second National Front Escambray leaders Eloy Gutierrez Menoyo and William Alexander Morgan. Both told Castro after first approaches and instructed play along. Conspiracy obtained support from Pedraza and Trujillo. ... Morgan got entire leadership conspiracy together night August 7-8. House wired and with cameras. Castro and Camilo Cienfuegos walked in at strategic moment. Since then everybody singing. Telegram from US Embassy to Secretary of State, August 11, 1959
During the two hours I spent with Lt. Alberto Bayo in his capacity of government interventor [sic] of the Aero Fumigadora Technica Company, I was shown the DC-46 which had come from the Dominican Republic bringing arms for "Morgan's Counter-Revolution". ... Lt. Bayo pointed out that all of the bullet holes in the plane were made by someone inside doing all the shooting. I inspected and could not find one hole made by a bulleet coming in from the outside. DC-46 From the Dominican Republic and Comments From Lt. Alberto Bayo, Cuban Air Force, September 11, 1959
Assume this attitude of Castro needs be weighed in light CAS report that Castro peeved because Embassy Havana allegedly knew of Morgan invasion attempt and he Castro, not informed. This seems preposterous in view information furnished Embassy Havana approximately week ago re Morgan and which Ambassador discussed with FONMIN Roa. Is it correct assume that ROA might not have had opportunity to pass information to Castro? Telegram from U.S. Embassy, Havana, to Secretary of State, August 12, 1959
In television appearance last night Fidel Castro emphasized and praised part played by William Alexander Morgan in GOC scheme to trap counterrevolutionaries and Trujillo. Said Morgan informed GOC promptly after first approaches by conspirators, and thereafter pretended participation in plot on GOC instructions. Telegram from Habana Embassy to Secretary of State, August 15, 1959
Within a few weeks, "the gringo from Ohio" was leading rebel bands in ferocious attacks against Batista's troops and was quickly promoted to the rank of major in the National Second Front of the Escambray. Fidel Castro praised Morgan at the time and said that he was "the kind of American that Cuba needs." ... Gen. Fabian Escalante, former head of Cuban State Security and today an adviser to Castro, claims that he has a thick intelligence dossier on Morgan that firmly establishes he was a CIA agent under the control of the agency's former Western Hemisphere Division chief, Col. Joseph Caldwell King. However, Escalante says, Morgan's cover legend of being a chronic disciplinary problem for the Army and perennial outsider was too close to reality, and Col. King and CIA personnel operating out of the embassy in Havana were unable to control him. Writes Escalante "Morgan was undisciplined and reported little, greatly displeasing the CIA station, which complained about him constantly." The CIA's displeasure soon prompted the agency to dispatch another agent to Cuba who could watch over the unpredictable American. That agent, operating under the alias John Maples Spiritto, was a former "special employee" of the Federal Narcotics Bureau. In the early 1950s, Spiritto also had been employed in Manhattan as part of the CIA's top-secret Artichoke Project. William Morgan: Patriot or traitor? by H.P. Albarelli Jr., April 21, 2002
John Meckpless Espiritto 
Captain Espiritto refused to furnish information regarding his citizenship in order that a formal application for registration as an American citizen be executed. He did state, however, that he was born in San Pedro, California on June 24, 1924, and had in his possession New York driver's license No. 5806360 dated April 2, 1956. Although Capt. Espiritto refused to furnish other biographical details or information regarding his entry into the Cuban Armed Forces, it appears that he is under arrest for being involved in an incident a month or so ago in which he was acting in an official capacity at the time of the death by shooting of another member of the Revolutionary Forces. Capt. Espiritto stated that he was placed under detention as a Captain in the Revolutionary Army and he intended to be released the same way; he did not want the Embassy's assistance saying he felt he was a Cuban. He added, however, that he may yet request the Embassy's intervention in the event his trial proves serious enough to warrant the death penalty. WELFARE & WHEREABOUTS: Case of John Meckpless ESPIRITTO, presumed American under detention, March 31, 1959 (document provided by Christy Hughes Cox)
John Meckpless Espiritto, a Captain in the Revolutionary Forces of Cuba, was arrested on or about March 26, 1959 by Cuban authorities and detained for investigation regarding suspicion of involvement of murder of another member of the Revolutionary Forces. Captain Espiritto, at the time of his arrest, was Chief of the Habana Highway Patrol. On April 1, 1959, a consular officer visited Captain Espiritto at La Cabaña Fortress prison in order to determine Espiritto's citizenship status. At that time he said he was born in San Pedro, California. He refused to furnish information in order to execute an application for registration as an American citizen. He stated that he is Cuban; was arrested as a Captain in the Revolutionary Forces and intended to be tried under the same circumstances. On April 23, 1959, the Office of the Naval Attache of the Embassy informed the reporting officer that Captain Espiritto was tried in Santa Clara, Cuba, by a Revolutionary Court, found guilty and sentenced to one year in prison. However, the sentence was suspended provided Espiritto remain in Cuba and not leave Habana Province. Case of John Meckpless ESPIRITTO, presumed American, detained, tried and sentenced, April 27, 1959 (document provided by Christy Hughes Cox)
Un oficial de la CIA reconoce que desde 1956 espió en México a Fidel y a los expedicionarios del Granma y participó en los planes para destruir la Revolución cubana, desde los días de la guerra en las montañas y hasta después de los sucesos de Playa Girón. A John Mac Meckples Spiritto la CIA lo reclutó a los 22 años para el programa de la USIA, sección del Servicio de Inteligencia de Estados Unidos adscripta al Departamento de Estado, que a principios de los años 50 tenía como función esencial la búsqueda de información económica, sociopolítica, penetrar los sectores estudiantiles y profesorales de las universidades y otros centros docentes. Por su espíritu aventurero y su carácter ambicioso y sin escrúpulos, estuvo vinculado a algunos de los planes estratégicos de la CIA en Centroamérica y el Caribe el derrocamiento del gobierno de Jacobo Árbenz, en Guatemala, y la ayuda al dictador dominicano, Rafael Leonidas Trujillo, y por supuesto, la pretensión de destruir la Revolución cubana y asesinar a su líder, Fidel Castro. Nuestro hombre en La Habana, por Luis Báez, Juventud Rebelde Web, 9 de junio de 2002
Rafael del Pino Rafael DEL PINO, previously identified as one of the Cuban students armed with rifles during the April 9 revolution, is actually a professional machinist. I saw today his identification as member of: The Union of Electrical, Radio and Machine Workers of America (CIO). Registration book R-8621 issued May, 1946. Sindicato de Mecánicos Prácticos y Motoristas Navales de Cuba. Syndicate card no. 285 issued in November, 1945. Confederacion de Trabajadores de Cuba. Registration card no. 367,169 issued probably in 1945. He held a U.S. draft registration card issued in New York in 1946 when he gave his address as West 83rd Street, although I did not get his house number. These identification documents belonging to Del Pino were in the possession this morning of one Hernando MATIZ Navarro, who, I belive, is a member of the Security Police of Bogotá. Matiz said the documents were held by the manager of the Claridge Hotel, who turned them over to the police. Matiz said he was on his way to deliver these documents to the Ministry of War. Memorandum from William Wieland to Ambassador Beaulac, April 22, 1948
He was born in Cuba and was naturalized a United States citizen while serving in the United States Armed Forces approximately 12 years ago. The number of his naturalization certificate is 692 4498. Re Welfare/Whereabouts Case of Rafael DEL PINO Siero, injured American under detention, July 28, 1959
Del Pino's sister and aunt who visited Embassy yesterday stated he naturalized as World War II veteran although never went overseas. Del Pino case has possibilities of developing into another serious irritant between US and Cuba and needs most careful handling, July 28, 1959
The charge arose from the slaying of a Cuban during an attempt to assassinate Rolando Masferrer, then a pro-Batista Senator, on Sept. 15, 1949. Cuban Trial Concludes: Del Pino, in Jail as Castro Foe, Is Cleared in Slaying, The New York Times, April 3, 1960 lost file
Rafael Del Pino, naturalized, from Miami. On December 8, 1959, sentenced to 30 years for counter-revolutionary activities. Now at Castillo del Principe Prison infirmary. He is suffering from a leg wound received at the time of his capture last July. Seen by Embassy officers on April 9, 1960. Americans in Jail, June 1, 1960
A State Department spokesman said that U.S, officials, who will open a special office in the Swiss embassy in Havana on Thursday, will try to find out whether Del Pino is dead, and if he is dead, whether he committed suicide. Rafael del Pino Jr. says he's skeptical of the suicide story. He said his father called him from prison a few weeks ago and had said that he was optimistic that he would be freed soon. U.S. to Check on Reported Suicide Of Ex-Castro Friend in Cuban Prison, The Miami Herald, August 30, 1977
Historia Oculta de los Crimenes de Fidel Castro, por Ramon Conte, 1995, pp. 18-22.
Rolando Masferrer In addition to the editorial by Vasconcelos, articles couched in the most vulgar and disrespectful language, heavily critical of the Ambassador, the Secretary of State, and the United States have appeared in the Habana daily Tiempo en Cuba for August 2, Aug. 4, Aug. 6 and August 7, 1957. These articles were obviously approved by the official censor appointed by the Cuban Government, and may therefore be said to have the approval of that Government. This paper is owned and directed by Rolando MASFERN (sic), one of the most completely corrupt, vicious and unscrupulous men in Cuba. Attacks on Secretary Dulles and U.S., presumably Approved by Cuban Authorities, Aug 8, 1957
Local killings past two weeks probably number over 20 with majority attributed Govt Forces and or Masferrer men. ... Masferrer men widely held responsible several wekk known killings following broad daylight pickups. This connected repeated stories large scale extortion. These men in uniform so difficult differentiate regular forces. Telegram #511 from Santiago de Cuba, June 9, 1958
Jay Mallin, Time correspondent, came to see me this morning. He had just gotten back from a trip to Miami. He related the following: Over the weekend some 50 armed men landed in Las Villas in the Escambray area. The group reportedly was made up of followers of Rolando MASFERRER. Mr. Mallin stated that he got this from Hal Hendrix of the Miami News who stated that Jorge ZAYAS had confirmed it; An opposition source, whom he did not name, had informed him to be in his home at 9:00 a.m. on September 22 for a call. He did not know what it was about but suspected some action to be taken against FEU leaders. He was told also to have a photographer standing by; While in Miami he had talked with Frente Revolucionario Democratico people and representatives of Manolo Ray's group. He found the Frente people confident and optimistic with the support they were receiving in the United States. As the "chosen instrument" they spoke in terms of all groups having to join the Frente if they expected support. The Ray people, on the other hand, were not happy with this development. They are not about to join the Frente as a pre-condition for assistance. Mr. Mallin stated he thought it would be a mistake to alienate the Ray group as Ray represented perhaps the best rallying point in Cuba for the overthrow of the Castro regime. Memorandum for the Files, September 21, 1960
Preso un yanqui mercenario. Dos más prófugos. La expedición habia sido organizada por Masferrer. Inminente liquidación. Un muerto y veintiún prisioneros de los 27 que invadieron a Cuba: Serán juzgados hoy sumariamente por un Tribunal Revolucionario, October 12, 1960
Court Martial was complete farce. Its purpose was wholly political. Prosecutor reportedly attempted bring out directly and by innuendo, that accused invaders got support and cooperation from U.S. authorities, that expedition was planned by Masferrer, that invaders were fooled by US propaganda, that there is no communism here, that there are no Russians, Czechs or Chinese in evidence, and that Cuba just wants to be left alone to carry its revolution Telegram from Consulate in Santiago de Cuba, October 13, 1960
Revolucion December 29 picks up AP despatch on Masferrer group in United States with banner headlines on page 2 declaring "In the shade of the State Department: Yankees and Esbirros Recruit Invaders." Article then classified AP despatch as obvious recruiting advertisement for Masferrer, possibly ordered and paid for by Washington and demonstrating AP's complicity with Masferrer war criminals. Declares that announcement shows clearly that Masferrer army has been enabled to organize and train openly in U.S., either because State Department has ordered Miami police not to interfere or because Miami police have been bought off by Masferrer and State Department is willing to look other way. Revolucion runs picture showing five American members of Masferrer group with caption "Will these gringos come" If they come ... they will stay!" Names are: Alvin WENTZ, Tommy BAKER, Larry RICE, Nicholas NERI and Wilbur GEE. Telegram from Braddock to Secretary of State, December 29, 1960
See also Cuban Information Archives webpage on Rolando Masferrer.
Robert Fuller The group which landed last Sunday at Cayo Mambi near Moa Bay consisted of 57 men, including 4 Americans. Shortly after landing the group attacked a nearby garrison and killed 9 and captured 37 plus considerable food, arms and ammunition. The group did not carry an American flag. The leader (name not given) was killed int he attack and the 2nd in command, Robert (Bobby) Fuller, an American citizen who was born and reared in Oriente Province, is now in charge. The father stated that the group had rendezvoused on an island north of Oriente where they picked up their arms and ammunition. The father had some contact with the Masferrer brothers and Campbell speculated that they may well have had a part in this operation although he has no evidence of this. ... William Otis Fuller said that this landing was supposed to be synchronized with other landings to take place in other parts of Cuba. Information concerning group which has reportedly invaded Oriente Province, October 6, 1960
A Bernard Campbell called the BIO (he was referred to BIO by DC/T watch officer) to report on the plight of Robert FULLER and Dale THOMPSON, Americans who were part of a 30 man (3 American and 27 Cuban) force which invaded Cuba on 9/25/60. Campbell says the force actually consisted of 4 Americans and 57 Cubans. Fuller and Thompson and three Cubans are the remnants of the original group. At approximately 0040 EDT the five were in or near Nevas (maybe Navas) and were attempting to reach safety of the Guantanamo Naval Base. They were dressed in US Marine Corps combat fatigues. Fuller, an ex-Marine, is a member of the Marine Reserve. Memorandum, October 12, 1960
Consul Summ telephoned me from Santiago this morning to effect thta Amercan citizens A.D. Thompson and Paul Hughes had been arrested for participation recent invasion attempt Oriente. Habana press reports Allen D. Thompson and Robert Fuller arrested. Later information would appear indicate all three in custody. Telegram from Bonsal to Secretary of State, October 15, 1960
Principal government organ Revolucion this morning attempts to use trial of last four members of Navas Bay expedition, and especially testimony of Robert O. Fuller, to demonstrate USG implication in expedition. ... Fuller is reported as saying he established contact in Miami with "Millo" OCHOA (prominent Ortodozo Party figure) and ORUE (former mayor of Marianao under Batista) whom Revolucion describes as principal directors in plans for military operations against Cuba at service of Yankee imperialism. On arms Fuller is reported as stating they were of North American make and "were acquired in a gun shop (armeria)." (El Mundo reports Fuller said arms "had been obtained through the American Government.") Cuban prisoner Angel Maria RIVERA Sanchez quoted as denying he trained in any camp in Florida but that he had knowledge that one Marisol ALBA did have such camp for training mercenaries "without being molested by yankee authorities." Telegram from Braddock to Secretary of State, October 18, 1960
Manuel Ray In a conversation with Manuel Ray, head of the Movimiento Revolucionario del Pueblo (MRP), he explained his views on the effort it will take to overthrow the Castro regime and his attitude toward existing opposition groups. ... Ray was very critical of efforts of CIA to make the MRP go through the FRD for material and financial assistance as a condition for obtaining such aid. Views of Manuel Ray on the Effort to Overthrow the Castro Regime, February 2, 1961
POLITICS AND INTRIGUE
US-Cuba Relations
Batista advisers will unquestionably endeavor he maintain public posture that U.S. is still solidly supporting regime. In future conversations with him or members his Government I intend maintain position outlined press conference July 25 that U.S. firmly non-interventionist. Telegram from Ambassador Smith to Secretary of State, Aug. 9, 1957
Ambassador Nunez, who had just returned from Havana, spoke with great emotion about the difficult position he says he is in as a result of recent statements by Ambassador Smith in Havana and Mr. Dulles. Ambassador Nunez said that in Cuba he is the recognized leader of the group which favors close relations with the US as well as the strongest opposition to Communism. He said that Ambassador Smith's remarks to the press in Santiago de Cuba and Mr. Dulles' comments on Ambassador Smith's remarks had been played in the Cuban press so as to give the impression that the administration in Washington has changed its policy of non-intervention in Cuban affairs to one of encouraging the ambitions of Fidel Castro. US Attitude toward Batista Administration, Aug. 13, 1957
A state of near rebellion exists in Cuba against the regime of President Fulgencio Batista. There have been several attempts to overthrow the Government and others undoubtedly will be made. In addition to an unceasing wave of terrorism, the opposition has now begun to apply the torch to the sugar fields, tobacco curing sheds, etc., in the country, while a bombing campaign continues unabated in Habana and other cities on the island. The police and armed forces have employed barbarous brutality in their efforts to suppress the opposition or to punish without trial those they believe guilty of terrorism or conspiracy. If a solution is not found soon, the Batista Government either will be replaced by a military or civilian junta, or the Batista forces will seek to perpetuate themselves in office, probably by means of an election in which the opposition considers it cannot participate. In the latter case, the problem now facing the country would not be solved, while in the former, a long period of instability might result before election of a constitutional regime were held. Possible United States Courses of Action in Restoring Normalcy to Cuba, Nov. 21, 1957
Manager Moa Bay Mining Co. reports 200 rebels last night moved into Moa Bay. Captured 11 Americans and took them up into hills. Telegram from U.S. Ambassador to Secretary of State, June 27, 1958
One additional Naval personnel seized last night outside Guantanamo Base. Total armed service personnel missing now 30. Bulk are Marines, no officers missing. This group who are missing since night June 27, were returning to Base after routine liberty Guantanamo City. Empty bus located approximately 30 miles off road near San Antonio. Missing personnel believed carried further into hills by truck. Telegram from U.S. Ambassador to Secretary of State, June 29, 1958
During my exchange of views with Batista on July 10, he stated that if the overthrow of the Government of Cuba were brought about by U.S. intervention, as described in Embtel 49, only chaos and a complete breakdown of law and order would ensue in Cuba. These are the conditions the Communists are striving for. He further stated that Raul Castro spent three years behind the Iron Curtain and obviously has been fully indoctrinated. I stressed the fact that the U.S. had no such intentions and that we appreciated the support of the friendly GOC as often displayed in all international matters. I further stated that I would make inquiries regarding the allegations in Embtel 49. Telegram from Ambassador Smith to Secretary of State, July 11, 1958
REBELS of "Second Front" under Raul Castro were by own declaration acting without consultation any other rebel groups or boss Fidel Castro in picking up Americans for which carefully prepared justification and order issued June 22. ... Rebels blame U.S. for "providing arms and support to Batista" and are trying to make most of situation publicity wise. They also have alleged evidence use MAP equipment against them some of which I saw. Secret Telegram from U.S. Ambassador to Secretary of State, July 13, 1958
Without entirely rejecting promotion of military junta as possible solution, Embassy considers this course dangerous (exposes U.S. to serious charges of intervention), uncertain of success (how persuade Batista or other top military leaders not included in junta to accept it?), non-peaceful (Castro group would still have to be dealt with), and unconstitutional (disregards results of elections). Embassy accordingly proposes ... U.S. to give full support to Rivero Aguero upon our being satisfied he has support of military ... Secret Telegram from Ambassador Smith to Secretary of State, Dec. 2, 1958
The danger, which we must always bear in mind, is that any action taken on our part to weaken Batista -- without setting up a strong replacement backed by U.S. -- would automatically strengthen Castro in the reverse ratio and thereby benefit the Communists. For Snow from Ambassador, Dec. 13, 1958
I started off by pointing out to him the widespread sympathy and affection which Dr. Castro had evoked from the American people; that the American people had a great capacity for admiration, and even affection, and that much of this had been directed toward Fidel Castro, even before his victory in the Revolution. I said that, notwithstanding the many facets of the U.S. image, there were certain basic loyalties which all sectors of the U.S. hold dear, and that there had gradually developed an attitude of questioning, and perhaps even a feeling of hurt, on the part of many Americans at some of the statements made by Dr. Castro during the past two or three months. Memorandum of Conversation with Dr. Filipe Pazos and Dr. Joaquín Mayer, April 16, 1959
Castro's remarks that his government would adhere to the inter-American principle of non-intervention and would not support revolutionary expeditions against dictatorships had landed like a bombshell among Castro's followers. Castro's Conversation with Latin American Newspaperman, April 21, 1959
Castro listened carefully, with Boti nodding over his shoulder most of the time, and he interrupted only occasionally. He seemed to be slightly injured that I interpreted his speech as critical of the United States, saying that he had striven mightily to avoid criticizing the United States. Memorandum of Conversation with Dr. Fidel Castro, May 2, 1959
Felipe Pazos has told Gene Glimore that Castro never acquainted his associates on the trip with the substance of his talk with Nixon, but Pazos believed it had to do largely with Communism, and that the Vice President showed Castro some FBI files. Pazos said that whatever it was that Nixon told Castro, the latter seemed to have taken it very well. I will limit my distribution on the Nixon memorandum to those few people in the Embassy I believe should see it. Memorandum from U.S. Embassy, Havana, to State Department, May 8, 1959
Tad Szulc, "New York Times" correspondent, telephoned [William Wieland] today from Miami. He said the following: He had just returned from Habana and is en route to Ciudad Trujillo to report further on developments. While in Habana he and Herb Matthews, "New York Times" editorial writer, had a long interview with Prime Minister Castro. The interview was completely informal and on the clear understanding that nothing discussed would be for publication. ... Report of Todd Szulc's Interview with Fidel Castro, July 15, 1959
The Castro regime seems to have sprung from a deep and widespread dissatisfaction with social and economic conditions as they have been heretofore in Cuba and to respond to an overwhelming demand for change and reform. The universal support it has received from the humble and the lower middle classes is a witness tothe strength of this compulsion. Similar conditions calling for reform probably exist in many other countries of the hemisphere. If Cuba is any indication, rightist, oligarchic governments in Latin America may be overturned in the not distant future by popular revolutionary movements which in the beginning at least establish extremist, socialistic governments. Under these circumstances the United States should perhaps be looking for a new formula that can win the confidence and support of such governments until they can be guided into more moderate channels. If we turn our back on them we risk pushing them into the arms of the Communists. What seems to be called for rather is forbearance and a resolute and sustained effort to understand the help and influence them. Secret Telegram from Embassy to Secretary of State, August 2, 1959
Story says Venezuelan Ambassador telephoned Betancourt and two days later latter sent special envoy to Washington with letter to Secretary as follows: U.S. lacks moral authority take action against Castro until it has done so against Trujillo and therefore recommended U.S. first take energetic action against Trujillo including economic sanctions and cooling of relations up to point of break and join efforts Venezuela and others which would contribute to Trujillo enemies overthrowing him. Telegram from U.S. Embassy in Caracas, April 3, 1960
Department expects Castro regime will continue: 1) intensify internal repressive measures in effort both overcome economic difficulties and maintain power; engage hostile propaganda campaign U.S. and LA nations; support communist and left extremist efforts exploit local issues; engage subversive activites; and endeavor portray its alleged achievements in social and economic fields as models which other LA peoples should enjoy. These and other Cuban acts should provide continuing opportunities Embassy officers enlist local sympathy for Cuban people and increase hostility toward communist regime Cuba. Memorandum from State Dept. to All American Consular Posts in the American Republics, February 12, 1962
MAAG - Cuba These documents show that U.S. military aid to Cuba was discontinued in 1958, to some extent facilitating Castro's revolution. Under the Military Assistance Program (MAP) America provided military aid to Latin American countries for the purpose of defending the western hemisphere against the Soviets. In violation of the MAP agreement, Batista used bombers provided by the US against the rebels, at which point the US stopped supplying spare parts for them.
The recent transfers of military equipment to Cuba under MAP were regarded not as aid for Cuba in the Western Hemispheric Defense Plan but rather as aid to the BATISTA "dictatorship" in order to perpetuate its existence. He made the point that U.S. aid was actually being used to maintain the BATISTA Government in power and that large segments of the population who are anti-BATISTA were losing faith in the United States, to whom they had always looked as the defender of freedom. Source felt that if the United States were neutral in Cuban affairs that this was certainly a very poor time to be handing out military aid to BATISTA. Revolutionary Activity, November 5, 1956
Against a well organized and trained enemy force, the Cuban military forces cannot maintain sustained combat operations for more than a very limited period of time. Upon cessation of current insurrectionist activities and reinstatement of Grant Aid and MSMS support, the Cuban military forces have a limited capability to repel external agrssion. A major mission assigned to the Armed Forces by the Cuban Government is that of internal security; while seemingly unsuccessful in suppressing the insurrection in Oriente Province, the Armed Forces in time, as its strength is being augmented by increased number of troops, will probably be capable of carrying out this mission. Although presently the major efforts of the Armed Forces are directed toward suppression of insurrectionist activities in Oriente Province, the training of MAP units is being conducted during this campaign which has contributed to the effectiveness of the units toward accomplishment of their mission in accordance with agreements. (SECRET) ... The present overriding problem is the suspension of grant aid and MSMS programs. The suspension action has forced the host government to look elsewhere to satisfy its military requirements. ... Present relationship between Mission and host country military personnel are being maintained generally on an individual and personal basis, however, continued suspension can only cause complete deterioration of relationship. This could result eventually in a government that is not completely orientated toward the United States. (SECRET) MAAG -- Cuba, Narrative Statement, Aug. 29, 1958
He made a strong plea for the continuation of shipment of arms. I told Batista that the present policy of U.S. was not to ship combat arms while active hostilities in Cuba were in progress. I told Batista that Secretary Dulles was most appreciative of the support we received from Nunez Portuondo. Yet the shipment of combat arms would make us vulnerable to the accusation that we were attempting to perpetuate the present regime. Secret Telegram from U.S. Ambassador to Secretary of State, September 22, 1958
After initial failure take adequate steps repress rebellion, GOC has seemed determined concentrate its efforts on military and police measures to supress revolutionary opposition while ignoring juridical, civic and political institutions of country which still appear to offer various possibilities of constructive compromise solution. This course of action has made it difficult for U.S. to extend more aid than it has to evidence its good will and support for GOC because basic policy considerations require us to withhold more support of military nature, at least until there is some fairly conclusive prospect of solution which has substantial support from Cuban people. Telegram from State Department to Habana Embassy, Jan. 1, 1959
Ed Sullivan New York Daily News Column January 12 [...] charges U.S. Military Missions assisted bombing attacks against people of Cuba in following language: "Our ambassador should have listened to veteran American foreign correspondents in Latin America. Chicago's Trib's Jules Dubois begged Ambassador Smith not to allow the U.S. Military Commission to train Batista's fliers for bombing forays against the people of Cuba, pointing out that Castro's bearded army represented and was expressing the deep feeling of the people of Cuba. Our Embassy in Habana ridiculed this interpretation; gave the green light to Batista's bombing of the populace." Telegram from Secretary of State Dulles, Jan. 13, 1959
For Department's consideration Embassy suggests statement along following lines be released by Department: "...In utilizing for the purpose of putting down the Cuban revolution any part of the equipment that had been provided under the agreement prior to the arms suspension or the small unit that had been previously trained and constituted expressly for the common defense, the Government of Batista acted in violation of the agreement and over the reiterated protest of the United States. As for the Missions themselves, they had no contact whatever with any military operations against the revolutionaries. They trained no personnel for this purpose. No mission personel were present at any time int he zones of operation. Therefore, the charge that the United States supplied arms for Batista's operations against the rebels or that the Missions assisted these operations in any way is completely without foundaton." Telegram from Ambassador to Secretary of State, Jan. 14, 1959
Although the Castro Government has consistently alleged that the United States provided Batista with arms with which to fight the rebels, these allegations have no basis in fact. Also, there is no information which would indicate that the bombs dropped on Santa Clara were sold or given to the Batista Government by the United States. Letter to Mrs. Geraldine Conway, September 16, 1960
Papal Intercession After rejection of Harmony Commission peace gesture by Castro, conditions were such that GOC might have fallen. Church was consistently reminded that it would be blamed for ensuing blood bath and chaos, which would surely prevail, if Batista fell. Church realized it would be blamed by GOC, sympathizers of GOC, and by many who suffered from the consequences. The Cardinal's fear of this was confirmed to me by the Papal Nuncio. Realization of this may have been deciding factor in Church decision to withdraw from active political participation. Psychological effect of steps US is taking may bring about overthrow of Batista. ... If Batista falls after such steps have become public knowledge, I am now concerned that US and not Church will be blamed for overthrow of GOC with resulting chaos and bloodshed. Secret Telegram from U.S. Ambassador to Secretary of State, March 16, 1958
Secret (Limited Distribution) Telegram #624 from U.S. Ambassador to Roy Rubottom, December 19, 1958
On consideration your proposals re approach to Nuncio (Embtel 624) Department agrees may prove useful to enter into contact with him on Cuban situation without seeking at this state to work out any concrete formula. Secret Telegram #364 from State Department, December 24, 1958
Guillermo Belt, former Ambassador to the U.S., came to the Residence and suggested following salvation for Cuba: Papal Nuncio and I should go to Batista and tell him to leave the country; Papal Nuncio to submit following junta to Batista, consisting of Gustavo Cuervo Rubio (former Vice-President of Cuba), Luis Machado (former Ambassador to the U.S.), Jose Antoni Rubio Padilla (Doctor of Medicine, prominent catholic leader, Minister of Public Works under Prio), Guillermo Belt (former Ambassador to the U.S.), Ernesto Dihigo (Professor University of Havana, former chief delegate UN under Prio), General Cantillo; General Cantillo to become chief of the joint staffs; U.S. to give full support -- including shipment of arms. ... According to Belt, the above candidates for junta all firmly believe: If Castros come into power, the blood bath in Cuba will be much worse than after the fall of Machado; That a social revolution will take place in Cuba; That the Communists will control the Government of Cuba; Secret (Limited Distribution) Telegram from U.S. Ambassador to Roy Rubottom, December 29, 1958
Assassinations and Plots On December 20, 1957, the younger son of Dr. Carlos MARQUES Sterling, Manuel Marques Sterling y Dominguez, stated that from personal knowledge he knew that Fidel CASTRO had actively participated in the conspiracy to assassinate Manolo CASTRO, when Fidel was a student at the University of Habana. Manuel explained that Fidel was a year or so ahead of him, and a classmate of his older brother. Manuel did not explain just how he knew, but he said that Manolo Castro was gunned down as he left a movie theater, and that Fidel had acted as a watcher or finger-man for the killers. Fidel had disguised himself as a vendor of lottery tickets, and had taken up a position in front of the theater, where he could watch for Manolo to come out. Subject: Fidel CASTRO, Jan. 2, 1958
On July 6, 1948, Oscar FERNANDEZ Caral, a member of the private police force maintained by the University, was shot by pistol at the corner of San Jose and Infanta Streets in Habana. He was still alive when taken to the first aid station, and when asked by police if he could identify his assailants, he said they were Jose de Jesus JINGAUMA and Fidel Castro Ruz. He died shortly afterwards. Biographic Information on Fidel CASTRO and Raul CASTRO, July 28, 1960
Reliable local American businessman informs Embassy he heard broadcast Friday, October 24 from 7:30 to 7:45 p.m. on nineteen meter band purporting to be Voice of America in which it was stated that State Department with knowledge and consent of President had officially recognized existence of civil war in Cuba and would henceforth accord belligerent status to insurgent movement. Contact says broadcast gave every appearance of being authentic, that it was in good English, began with usual theme song and contained world news roundup. Telegram from Ambassador Smith to Secretary of State, Oct. 27, 1958
Re Embtel 178. There are various wild rumors nature those discussed Embtel except no indication Bogotazo type operations. Telegram from Santiago de Cuba Consulate to Habana Embassy, November 12, 1959
Mr. Baumann thinks that we are now close to the most propitious moment we are going to get. He believes U.S. action should be strong and determined, commensurate with the gravity of the situation, the full significance of which he thinks the United States Government may not yet realize. ... He readily agreed with my observation that any change, in order to last, would have to be wrought by Cuban hands, and I gathered that the solution he was thinking of, though he didn't come out and say so, was for the United States to back covertly but strongly a Cuban attempt to overthrow Castro. Memorandum of Converation with Second Secretary to German Embassy, August 5, 1960
Embassy has received several reports that there are five or six Cuban airplanes located at San Antonio Air Base, Havana Privince, with US insignia. ... Consider it would be desirable for Embassy advise Fon Min these reports and state that there are of course no US planes at this field at this time and that if these reports are correct the planes in question are not entitled to carry the US insignia. Our note could be publicized later in event an act of auto aggression occurred. Telegram from US Embassy to Secretary of State, October 19, 1960
Bay of Pigs Press stories state that information received by Revolutionary Government from creditable sources indicates that plan is being hatched to provoke invasion by US Marines. Pentagon and CIA are accused of developing plan with approval of President Eisenhower who is charged with deciding to use last few days his administration to intervene in Cuba and turn over fait accompli to new administration. Telegram from US Embassy to Secretary of State, December 31, 1960
Developments in Cuba denounced by Castro regime as US-inspired aggression. This could easily trigger some or all forms of anti-American violence ... Secret Telegram from Secretary of State Rusk, April 16, 1961
Volunteer force of some 1,200 Cuban Freedom fighters landed on south coast of Cuba in early morning April 17 for declared purpose liberating their country from Communist dictatorship Fidel Castro. They were all Cubans under Cuban commander. They had received support from American sources, both official and private, as well as support elsewhere in classical manner such refugee efforts. ... After gallant effort beachhead was overrun on afternoon April 19. Some freedom fighters are believed to have joined guerrillas, some withdrew, some escaped beachhead in boats, but casualties severe. The intimidation and massive roundup in concentration areas of persons known to be unsympathetic to Castro regime, coupled with failure of expeditionary force to strike through Castro's defense and make contact with population severely limited possibilities of spontaneous uprising. Secret Telegram from Secretary of State Rusk, April 24, 1961
Missile Crisis Cuban source with confidential contact in cryptographic section of Foreign Office informed DCM last night that on June 7 Fonoff received message from Nuñez Jimenez in Moscow reporting three hour conversation with Krushchev in which latter informed Nuñnez Jimenez of Soviet Union's desire to establish missile bases in Cuba. Another reliable source has informed Embassy officer that Justo Carrillo told him that approximately two weeks ago Raul Castro stated in confidence to Faure Chaumont (apparent Ambassador-designate to USSR) and Minister Interior Jose Naranjo that he was planning early trip to USSR to seek military assistance pact including nuclear weapons. Chaumont told a confidante that Raul said "my dream is to drop three atom bombs on New York." Secret Telegram from U.S. Embassy to Secretary of State, June 16, 1960
Reports on the two ships (S. Korov and N. Burdenko) which delivered arms during the first week in October indicate the following items were aboard: more antiaircraft artillery; more Czech machine guns and ammunition; at least 100 jeeps; and other unidentified equipment. The latter reportedly includes tanks and aircraft (presumably MIG fighters), but we lack sufficient evidence to confirm or deny these reports. The very strict security precautions surrounding the arrivals and unloadings of the two Soviet ships, including the prohibition of all flights over the area, suggests that items such as MIGs may have been included, especially as some of the cargo apparently was taken to the airbase. (SECRET) Reports of unknown or doubtful reliability continue to allege that Soviet missile sites are being constructed in Cuba -- along with submarine bases -- and that missiles and "atomic rockets" have been delivered. While not ignoring the reports, we have no information to substantiate these allegations. We consider it highly unlikely tha the Soviet Union would engage in such activities in Cuba. Reports of construction work by Czech and Soviet personnel around Havana and near several airbases probably involve the emplacement of antiaircraft guns and fire-control apparatus. Recent bloc arms deliveries are known to have included such weapons. (SECRET) Arms Deliveries to Cuba, October 18, 1960
"There is no hard evidence that Cuba has as yet received MIG aircraft, nor is there firm evidence that any nuclear weapons, missiles or other sophisticated weapons are now in Cuba. Numerous reports have been received of the establishment of Soviet missile bases and the presence of Soviet rockets in Cuba, but none of these have been confirmed. In early January, a source of the West German Embassy in Cuba reported that an unknown quantity of rockets, 17 hydraulic launchers and six Soviet rocket experts had arrived in Havana. The source submitted more detailed technical data concerning these rockets than has been contained in previous reports. A thorough technical analysis of the information reveals no known Soviet missile fits the dimensions or details reported, and that no missile, in fact, would be operable given the technical details included in this report." Your Concern Over Possible Guided-Missile Capacity of the Castro Regime, February 20, 1961
During the last few months of the U.S. Embassy's existence in Cuba Mr. William Bowdler, Second Secretary, received on several occasions rolls of microfilm containing sketches, maps and general information on various Cuban military installations. The microfilm came through an intermediary from a Cuban helicopter pilot who worked with the armed forces and with INRA. We understand that the microfilm was considered of value by CAS [CIA] and by the Army Attaché. Later, a young Cuban pediatrician, who had developed the microfilm, but who had no further connection with it, was arrested when caught with microfilmm copies of the information described. He was shot as a spy.
The memorandum in Spanish received by Mr. Bowdler enclosed an Esso road map of Cuba on which seven alleged launching sites are located. It states that these seven will be finished thi smonth (October) or at the beginning of November. The launching machinery is now being tested for the firing of rockets. In addition, according to the communication, twenty-five more will be finished in 1962. There are two classes of rockets up to the present. One is loaded with an "asphyxiating gas", and the other with an incendiary product of high potency. After November 2, 1961, they will receive atomic materials or bombs ["dispositivos atomicos (bombas)"] to be launched with the same projectiles.
Information from within Cuba re Alleged Rocket Launching Sites, November 6, 1961The "Mouse Trap Play", November 2, 1962
Copyright Paul Wolf, 2002-2004. No copyright to original government works.
