◆ SpookStack

Despite the fact that the decision to use B-26's had already been made by the DDCI and the A/DDP/A, there was at least one last futile attempt by JMATE representatives to reject the choice. The. following Memorandum for Record which is presented in full, shows how WH/4 conducted a step-by-step retreat on the issue during a meeting with DPD shortly after the decision to get ten B-26's had been made: 1. JMARC opened by saying they didn't think 10 B-26's would be enough air sup- port for their PM effort. 2. I indicated that 10 would be enough if the strike base was within the original radius of the target (200-500 miles). 3. They then asked about F4U's and PSI's with an additional statement of striking from Guatemala. I. indicated that these aircraft would give hardly any time over the target. 4. Next they indicated that the B-26 \ . could not function as a close support aircraft. My statement to that was this was the only aircraft available and we would do our best with this problem. 5. Commander Imler stated he wanted each aircraft over target four hours. I stated that the B-26 would not then have fuel to return to Guatemala. He indicated they would have to land on the Isle of Pines. 6. My statement to four was it would be difficult to take a normal pilot and give him 8-10 hours fuel, send hi~ on a - 34 -