◆ SpookStack

Part II Acquisition and Training of Air Crews A. Basic Plan for Flight Training The problem of the acquisition of aircraft for the anti-Castro operations was discussed earlier in this volume. This section will concern itself with the recruitment and training of pilots to fly those aircraft, and the initiation of overflight operations. The basic program for training of anti-Castro pilots is set forth in a document which probably originated in July or early August of 1960. It was prepared by DPD with Jake Esterline's concurrence. The Air Sup- port Annex I (Eye) to Paramilitary Operations Plan #1 (Operations Plan 60, AD-5), set forth its initial mission as follows: A. To conduct tactical air training, designed to produce 12-15 combat qualified pilots in B-26 aircraft no later than 1 No- vember 1960. B. To conduct air training designed to produce 8-10 C-46 transport pilots as soon as practicable. 1/ In terms of its operational responsibility, the plan went on to say: ,