O 262102ZNOV 78
FM JCS WASHINGTON DC//J3//
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHINGTON DC/GUYANA TASK FORCE
(Listing of 16 military bases and federal agencies follows)
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CONFIDENTIAL 4523
PAGE 2 RUEKJCS 2762 CONFIDENTIAL
SUBJ: Return of People’s Temple survivors
1. The situation regarding legal status and return to CONUS [continental United States] of US Temple member survivors has developed into unknown diplomatic delays and law enforcement requirements. It does not appear that the Guyanian government is going to release the groups of survivors within the next 72 hours. There are some indications that the “Lamar group” cult survivors may not be released until some time in December.
2. It is planned to redeploy all US military elements from Guyana by the end of 27 Nov 78 except for the airlift control element (ALCE) (about twenty seven personnel) necessary to return cult survivors and the helicopters with personnel providing support to Amemb [American Embassy] Guyana.
3. It appears prudent to redeploy to ALCE on 27 Nov 78 since cult survivors will not be released within 72 hours. Although commercial air is preferred and available, if military airlift is required special mission aircraft and required security personnel can be ready for deployment within 24 hours.
PAGE 3 RUEKJCS 2762 CONFIDENTIAL
Please advise soonest.
GDS-84
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