Potential Weaponization:
Threat: The idea that these old chemicals and munitions could be used as weapons, either intentionally or accidentally, raises concerns about their potential misuse or release.
Operation Red Hat (1969-1971)
Operation Red Hat and Chemical Weapons Relocation
Background and Planning:
1962: U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara's recommendation led to the relocation of U.S. chemical weapons to Okinawa. This move aimed to deter North Korean chemical weapons capabilities, as noted by U.S. Defense Secretary Melvin Laird in a 1970 meeting with Japanese Defense Agency chief Yasuhiro Nakasone.
Deployment and Storage:
Red Hat Code Name: Assigned on November 12, 1962, by the Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Department of the Army. The 267th Chemical Platoon was activated at Chibana Ammunition Depot on Okinawa to receive and store chemical agents under the code name "RED HAT."
Types of Chemicals: The depot stored various agents, including sarin, VX, and mustard gas. By 1969, approximately 1.9 million kg (1,900 metric tons) of VX was stored on Okinawa.
Incident and Publicity:
1969 Exposure: Over 20 personnel were exposed to sarin during sandblasting operations. The ensuing publicity contributed to the decision to move the weapons off Okinawa due to concerns about safety and public backlash.
Operation Red Hat - Transfer:
1971 Relocation: The transfer of chemical munitions from Okinawa to Johnston Atoll involved significant logistical efforts:
Phase I: Began in January 1971, involving the movement of 150 tons of distilled mustard gas (HD). The USNS Lt. James E. Robinson was among the vessels used.
Phase II: Completed in August and September 1971, transporting 12,500 tons of munitions using various ships, including the USNS Sea Lift and USNS Private Francis X. McGraw.
Contingency Planning: The plan was to transfer the munitions to Umatilla Chemical Depot but was abandoned due to public opposition and political pressure. Legislation in January 1971 (PL 91-672) prohibited transferring chemical munitions to U.S. states.
Storage and Destruction:
Johnston Atoll: Chemical weapons were stored and eventually destroyed on Johnston Atoll. The Johnston Atoll Chemical Agent Disposal System (JACADS) began operations in June 1990, with full-scale operations starting in August 1993. The facility faced challenges, including hurricanes and a Sarin spill in December 1993, but completed destruction of the munitions by 2000.