Transcription

Defense Secretary Robert McNamara: I would say only that we ought to keep some kind of pressure on tonight and tomorrow night that indicates we're firm. Now if we call up [or off?] these air squadrons [or strikes?] tonight, I think that settles that.

President Kennedy: I want to do that. I think—

McNamara: I have a paper here that relates ... we haven't discussed it yet, Mr. President. If I can interrupt now to say I believe we should issue an order tonight calling up the 24 air reserve squadrons, roughly 300 troop carrier transports, which are required for an invasion. And this would both be a preparatory move and also a strong indication of what lies ahead.

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