This document was transcribed with the assistance of Nick Miller. An index of military and diplomatic abbreviations referenced in this document can be accessed here.
230141Z NOV 78
TO JSC WASHINGTON DC//J3//
FM RULPALJ/USCINSCO QUARRY HEIGHTS CZ
[Remainder of recipients appear in pdf.]
CONFIDENTIAL062
SUBJ: JCS SITREP 003/222300Z NOV 78 (U)
- Situation
- a. The 150 Guyanese defense and police force continue to facilitate US efforts and provide security: search and rescue operations continue in the jungle surrounding Jonestown where some 450-500 people’s temple members may have fled: there are currently 68 survivors under GOG custody: Guyanese police officials have indicated that they prefer to keep all persons connected with
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The peoples temple under custody and in country for several days,
b. It is believed that most of Jones quote, hard core, unquote followers are among the 405 dead sect members: however, the possibility of random sniper attacks cannot be discounted: Venezuelan authorities have been informed of the possibility that some survivors may cross into Venezuela:
c. UTM MAP: Coordinates of Jonestown have been reported as 21NSJ762492,
2. Friendly Operation:
a. MAC has completed movement of equipment and personnel into Georgetown, Guyana, having flown 22 C-141 and 5 C-130 missions into country, as of 220930Z Nov 78, 239 personnel are in country:
b. Three HH-53 helicopter arrived Georgetown at 221720Z Nov 78 and began transporting bodies from Jonestown to Georgetown, first mission should arrive early morning 23 Nov 78;
c. COMJTF estimates three days to complete return of bodies: additional time may be required if survivors are evacuated by military aid
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d. Joint communications support elements deployment has been completed: all: planned communications nets are established and operating.
3. (U) General information
a. State was alerted DOD to requirement to return sect survivors to the CONUS;
b. JCS 222032Z Nov 78 promulgates State/DOD understanding: DOD will transport remains from GOG to Dover, DELand process remains for identification purposes: Department of State will reimburse DOD for all direct and indirect costs of this operation, State will wave legal custody of remains and handle all relationship with next of kin and others: State will assume physical custody responsibilities when DOD functions are terminated.
GDS 54
BT
# 2503