The Dominican Revolt
The Dominican Revolt
What began as a revolution by followers of exiled Dominican President Juan Bosch quickly deteriorated into outright anarchy when leadership was taken over by Communist agents. President Johnson ordered Marines into the country to protect Americans and others. Most of the 3,000 Americans were evacuated quickly and effectively. Within a week, the initial force of United States Marines were bolstered to 14,000 men, including paratroopers. In getting the job done, the Marines push the rebels from their strongholds in downtown Santo Domingo. Dominican Republic The street's of Santo Domingo, people are walking rather loosely holding signs and protesting. MS - Soldiers closing a gate. Washington DC President Johnson standing at a podium, "The American Nation cannot, must not, and will not permit the establishment of another Communist government in the Western Hemisphere. We know that many who are now in revolt do not seek a Communist tyrrany. We think its tragic indeed that their high motives have been misused by a small band of conspirators who receive their directions from abroad. To those who fight only for liberty and justice and progress, I want to join the Organization of American States in saying, in appealing to you tonight to lay down your arms and to assure you there is nothing to fear." Dominican Republic PT boat 89 evacuating Americans and other citizens who need asylum. CU - Women, men and children. Mother holding her toddler child and stroking her head. US Marines running on the shores of the Dominican Republic. Two Marines on the roof top and one Marine climbing the building. US Marines taking cover in a ditch, they are armed with automatic rifles. A US Marine running with a bazooka. Huge Communist tanks making their way down the streets of Santo Domingo. Communist soldier on top of a tank holding a rifle. Smaller tanks following the larger tank.