Purpose/Mission

Details: Assist Philippines at government request in response to coup attemp by rebel forces

Domestic Legal Authority

Details: "This measured action by U.S. Forces was taken... pursuant to my constitutional authority with respect to the conduct of foreign relations and as Commander in Chief."

Claimed International Legal Basis

Details: "President Aquino formally requested limited U.S. military assistance to support her forces as they attempted to put down the coup."

Estimated Scope/Duration

Mission-bound but indeterminate

Details: "At present, I do not foresee the need for U.S. military action in addition to the measures described above. I am prepared, however, to take additional actions to protect the lives of Americans, should they be threatened, and, if requested, to provide further assistance to the Government of the Philippines."

Type of Enemy or Mission

Details: Rebel forces under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Gregorio Honasan

Military Activity

Details: Ordered "armed U.S. aircraft... to establish a protective cover over... to prevent rebel aircraft from taking off.... U.S. aircraft did not fire." Also "dispatched a company of U.S. Marines to reinforce Marine guards at our Embassy."

US Casualties Reported

No

Details: "There were no U.S. casualties"

Non-US Casualties Reported

Unknown