◆ SpookStack

Among the points outlined in his scenario for the military briefing of Somoza, the following items are worth mention in view of the situation as it actually evolved. with reference to the Cuban Brigade members, it was to be emphasized that once they were on the ships they would never return to Nicaragua. With reference to the air strikes, the scena'rio stated": Air strikes will begin once landings [are] made and will continue until Castro knocked out. Fifteen B-26's will be used. Somoza need not worry about Cuban Air Force following the B-26's, as the mission of those planes in [sic] the total destruction of the Cuban Air Force. The success of the operation hinges largely on the con- tinued uninterrupted use of TIDE for strategic and logistical support for rebels. Once we start, we must go until Castro falls. 59/ Despite the fact that Lou Napoli talked rather glibly about promises and assurances that should be given to Somoza, Jack Hawkins, Chief, WH/4/PM, in testifying to the Taylor Committee made the point that neither the Agency nor the USG ever gave Somoza a high level promise of support as a condition for use of Puerto Cabezas. In fact, Hawkins emphasized that up until the last moment, the use of this base might have been denied at the whim of Somoza. 60/ TOP