Aug. 28, 1962
A U.S. intelligence report expresses concern over exercises by Cuban jet aircraft.
Meanwhile, as the Soviet Omsk crosses the Atlantic, the men on board are forced to keep all hatches closed in an attempt to avoid detection; temperatures inside could reach 120 degrees.
Aug. 29, 1962
An American U-2 surveillance flight provides conclusive evidence, shown above, of eight SA-2 (surface-to-air) missile sites across Cuba. Further reconnaissance also identifies coastal defense cruise missile installations for the first time.
Kennedy is informed there is now concrete evidence of surface-to -air missile installations in Cuba. On receiving the report, the president demands that it remain confidential, telling his aides to "put it back in the box and nail it shut."
Kennedy later tells reporters: "I'm not for
invading Cuba at this time ... an action like that ... could lead to very serious
consequences for many people." He also says there is "no information as
yet" about the possibility of air defense missiles in Cuba.
National Archives
