◆ SpookStack

Libertad: One aircraft returned to base safely and pilot reported target partially destroyed. All bombs fell within confines of the base. (Press reports stated one bomb scored direct hit on an Air Force ammunition dump and explosions were still occurring 30 minutes after the attack.) Heavy AAA was reported. One aircraft was damaged by AAAand forced to feathe~ engine which was on fire. Companion aircraft accompanied toward Key West, but observed damaged aircraft in uncontrolled crash into ocean. No parachutes or survivors were observed. Second aircraft, now low on fuel, continued to Florida and landed at Boca Chica. Extent of damage not yet determined. Special Aircraft: The special air- craft landed at destination as planned. Airborne Spare: One airborne spare aircraft aborted on take off, due to engine trouble. 40/ The difference between the PI report and the crew debriefing was highlighted in a cable from TIDE to Headquarters on 16 April 1961, defending the air- crews' reports: 1. Considerable discrepancy exists between 0-2 strike crew debriefings and [U-2] reports in regards to damage assess- ment. Granted that strike crews and excitement may have tendency to over- state, nevertheless, this does not account for so great a discrepancy. Concensus [sial TIDE that 250 [lb.] frags and 50 cal. guns have caused considerable damage that is not possible for [U-2] to see. - 210 -