By a complicated mechanism, John Wright, an ordinary American citizen, arranged to disperse one half-ton of ZV nerve gas over the city of San Diego at 5 p.m., August 23, 1972. This event was to coincide with the political events occurring in that city at that time.
The plan was halted by intervention of the Defense Department, with some minor assistance by State Department personnel, particularly Mr. R. Phelps.
The Department of Defense is to be congratulated on its successful efforts in this matter.
Three weeks later, the Secretary of Defense ordered a contingency study based upon reevaluation of RAND Scenario Beta (theft of CBW or nuclear components).
The contingency study advised the following:
The report of the Beta Scenario contingency study was evaluated by the Secretary of Defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff on November 10, 1972. The evaluation committee consisted of R. Gottlieb (RAND); K. Villadsen (Defense Systems Review); P. Lazarus (Defense C/C); L. M. Rich (State); A. Epstein (JCS); R. Dozier (Advanced Research PL); R. Phelps (State Intelligence). It was the unanimous conclusion of those present at the meeting that none of the recommendations needed to be acted upon at that time. A review committee was suggested for further evaluation of the report. Members of the review committee will be appointed in the near future.
In the meantime, present regulations and operating methods remain in effect.