However…
“Cryonics organizations need a separate, defensive organization which can act semi-covertly or covertly as needed… This would allow some measure of psychological tranquility to exist in the organization as a whole…”

It could, of course, have a negative effect on any potential for psychological tranquility. The Worldwide Guardian Office and the JDL are controversial organizations; in the case of Scientology, this “semi-covert” group undoubtedly adds a great deal to the public’s negative attitudes about Scientology; indeed, reports of surveillance and subversion of church detractors are regularly pointed to for justification of widespread ill will (and what are arguably even more subversive anti-Scientology actions in kind, like hacking and protests).

Even if an organization like the one you envision were relatively benign, the media would latch on to even the slightest hint of secrecy for the opportunity to implant conspiracy theories, further alienating the public (and potential cryonicists) from the parent organization (if not cryonics in general).

*Don’t misunderstand me*
I actually agree with your sentiments regarding the need to protect patients (and the organization as a whole). A defensive organization may well be *best* for cryonicists in the long-term, for our safety and that of and the patients under our care.

I’m simply not convinced that the existence of such an organization would be beneficial to ongoing efforts (and they *will* be ongoing for as long as I can imagine) to penetrate the public consciousness and increase acceptance in the foreseeable future. In fact, I think there’s a possibility that such an organization might undermine such efforts.

Again, just playing devil’s advocate here.
My gut instinct is all for it; protecting family is priority one.