FBI-UAP-62-83894, SECTION 5, FLYING DISC INVESTIGATIONS, 1947-1950

PAGE 1

cover-page

This is a cover page for an FBI file, specifically Section 5 of case 62-83894, containing serials 186-245.

4-898 (REV. 11-20-73)

FBI - CENTRAL RECORDS CENTER
HQ - HEADQUARTERS
Class / Case # 62-83894
Sub 5
Vol. 186
Serial # 245

[HANDWRITTEN: 7/15/715510]

[REDACTED] of
[REDACTED] of
INVESTIGATION

FOIPA # 993087

[HANDWRITTEN: PICKETT STREET]

USE CARE IN HANDLING THIS FILE

Transfer-Call 3421

[HANDWRITTEN: Serial -196, 197, 228]

SECTION 5
SERIALS 186-245

PAGE 2

cover-page

This is a cover page containing handwritten administrative notes and a FOIPA processing stamp.

[HANDWRITTEN: 203 204 209 214]
[HANDWRITTEN: Buchelden]
[HANDWRITTEN: 240,839 5/10/84 254]
[HANDWRITTEN: 343793 2/13/81 209 Azorin]
COPIED FOR FOIPA

PAGE 3

memo

An FBI memorandum from the San Antonio SAC to the Director regarding a planned convention for individuals who have seen flying saucers, as reported in the Galveston News.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : Director, FBI DATE: July 26, 1949
FROM : SAC, San Antonio
SUBJECT: FLYING DISKS
INTERNAL SECURITY - R

On July 15, 1949, the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff, G-2, Fourth Army, advised that a small article which had appeared in the Galveston (Texas) News on July 10, 1949, advertised the fact that the Young Men's Business Club of Alexandria, Louisiana, announced that it was planning a convention for persons from all over the nation who have seen flying saucers. It was stated that the convention was planned so that members may compare notes. It was also stated that flying disks were reported twice inthe week preceding the article in Alexandria, Louisiana.

The above is furnished as a matter of information.

cc: New Orleans

RECORDED - 22 62 - 83894 - 186
F B I
EX-112 34 JUL 29 1949
[HANDWRITTEN: EHM]
[HANDWRITTEN: FIVE]
100-7545
JEJ:wjw
52 AUG 5 1949
246

PAGE 4

memo

A memorandum from the New Orleans FBI office regarding a reported flying disc convention in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

TO: Director, FBI DATE: July 26, 1947
FROM: SAC, New Orleans
SUBJECT: SECURITY - X

On July 15, 1947, the office of the assistant chief of staff, G-2, advised that a small article had appeared in the New Orleans (Texas) news on July 10, 1947, that the Yorktown Business Club of Alexandria, Louisiana, was planning a convention for persons from all over the nation who have seen flying discs. It was stated that the convention was planned so that members may compare notes. It was also stated that flying discs were reported being seen in Alexandria, Louisiana.

The above is submitted as a matter of information.

PAGE 5

form

An FBI record of a telephone call from Mr. Ernest Cuneo regarding 'Flying Saucers' on July 11, 1949, noting that he wished to speak with Mr. Ladd.

OFFICE OF DIRECTOR
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Record of Telephone Call or Visitor [HANDWRITTEN: Flying Saucers]

Mr. Ernest Cuneo
called--phoned from New York City
Phone No. 
Hour 10:54am Date July 11, 1949

REMARKS
When informed of Mr. Hoover's and Mr. Ladd's absence from their office, Mr. Cuneo declined to speak to anyone else and stated that he was just following up on a conversation he had with Mr. Ladd over the weekend. He asked that Mr. Ladd be informed of his call.

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-187]
RECORDED - 59
INDEXED - 59
[HANDWRITTEN: rjp]
[HANDWRITTEN: 61 AUG 11 1949]

PAGE 6

other

This page contains a series of FBI date stamps indicating receipt of a document by various personnel (Ladd, Tolson, Fletcher) on July 11, 1949, and August 8, 1949.

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 11 1 58 PM '49

RECEIVED-TOLSON
F B I
DEPT OF JUSTICE
JUL 11 1 10 PM '49

RECEIVED-FLETCHER
JUL 11 7 54 PM '49

RECEIVED-FLETCHER
AUG 8 7 26 PM '49

PAGE 7

form

An FBI record of a telephone call from Mr. Ernest Cuneo to Mr. Ladd regarding a flying saucer story in California.

OFFICE OF DIRECTOR
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Record of Telephone Call or Visitor

[HANDWRITTEN: V.] [HANDWRITTEN: 3] Mr. Tolson
Mr. Clegg
Mr. Glavin
Mr. Ladd
Mr. Nichols
Mr. Rosen
Mr. Tracy
Mr. Egan
Mr. Gurnea
Mr. Harbo
Mr. Jones
Mr. Mohr
Mr. Pennington
Tele. Room
Mr. Nease
Miss Holmes
Miss Gandy

Mr. Ernest Cuneo thru. opr. from [HANDWRITTEN: ]
called-phoned. NYC

Phone No. 

Hour 10:29am Date July 12, 1949

REMARKS

When informed that Mr. Hoover was not in his office, Mr. Cuneo asked to speak with Mr. Ladd, and after checking the call was transferred, to Mr. Ladd.

Mr. Ladd advises that Mr. Cuneo was calling about the matter he dicussed with Mr. Ladd on last Saturday re a flying saucer in California. Mr. Cuneo asked if he could release the story. He was told that this was up to him

rjp/mhm
[HANDWRITTEN: What have done re it?]
RECORDED - 59
INDEXED - 59
[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-188]
F B I
3 AUG 19 1949
[HANDWRITTEN: 61 AUG 11 1949]

PAGE 8

form

This page contains various date-stamped receipt markings from the FBI and U.S. Department of Justice.

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 12 1949 46 PM '49

RECEIVED
AUG 5 RECEIVED-FLETCHER
JUL 12 7 56 PM '49

PAGE 9

letter

A letter from an FBI official to Ernest Cuneo regarding the inability to locate a Mr. Peter Cameron Jones, who had previously provided information about flying saucers, suggesting the original report may have been a prank.

July 21, 1949

[HANDWRITTEN: 13-]

Mr. Ernest Cuneo
40 Wall Street
New York, New York

Dear Ernie:

You will recall the telephone conversations about Mr. Peter Cameron Jones, 164 West 37th Street, Los Angeles 7, California, and information furnished by him on the subject of flying saucers.

I thought you would like to know that efforts made to locate Mr. Jones have been unsuccessful and casual inquiry in the vicinity he mentioned did not develop information about any one who is acquainted with him.

I thought you might wish to consider the possibility that the original letter in this matter may have been a prank.

Sincerely yours,

RECORDED - 59
INDEXED - 59

PAGE 10

memo

An FBI internal memorandum from D. M. Ladd to the Director regarding information on flying saucers provided by Ernest Cuneo, noting that the Los Angeles office will be instructed to investigate the individual who wrote a letter to Winchell about a 1947 incident.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : THE DIRECTOR DATE: July 12, 1949
FROM : D. M. Ladd [HANDWRITTEN: initials]
SUBJECT: [HANDWRITTEN: initials]

You inquired as to what was being done with reference to the information concerning flying saucers, which information was furnished by Ernest Cuneo.

I desire to advise that a letter is being prepared for the Los Angeles Office suggesting that they make a discreet check of the background of the individual who wrote the letter to Winchell and thereafter interview him for details. [HANDWRITTEN: Walter]

It is believed that a letter is satisfactory inasmuch as it is noted that this alleged incident occurred in 1947.

DML:dad [HANDWRITTEN: This should have been done the first thing monday instead of waiting until Wed to get it out] [HANDWRITTEN: Teletype to LA 7-12-49]

RECORDED - 59
INDEXED - 59
62-83894-190
61 AUG 11 1949
3 AUG 9 1949

PAGE 11

memo

An urgent FBI memo from July 18, 1949, addressed to the SAC in Los Angeles regarding an investigation and interview of Peter Camerlon Jones.

JULY 18, 1949
URGENT
SAC, LOS ANGELES
PETER CAMERLON JONES, INFORMATION CONCERNING.
REMYTEL JULY TWELVE LAST. SUTEL RESULTS YOUR
BACKGROUND [HANDWRITTEN: INVESTIGATION] AND INTERVIEW OF SUBJECT.
HOOVER
INITIALED
DIRECTOR'S OFFICE
EHM:jpa
RECORDED - 59
INDEXED - 59
162-83894-19
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
COMMUNICATIONS SECTION
JUL 18 1949
COPIES DESTROYED
TELEMETER 270 NOV 18 1964
[HANDWRITTEN: Flying Saucers]
[HANDWRITTEN: 11 1949]

PAGE 12

memo

This is a routing or administrative page for an FBI investigation file regarding a reported sighting of aerial phenomena (flying discs) in Los Angeles, dated July 18, 1947.

JULY 18 1947
LOS ANGELES
RE: FLYING DISC INFORMATION CONCERNING
REPORTED SIGHTING OF AERIAL PHENOMENA
INVESTIGATION
BACKGROUND AND INTERVIEW OF SUBJECT.

[HANDWRITTEN: 4]

INDEXED - 28
RECORDED - 28

JUL 18 1947
COMMUNICATIONS SECTION
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
RECEIVED - FLETCHER
JUL 18 1947

TELETYPE TO LOS ANGELES

JUL 18 1947
FBI
FIELD OFFICE
JUL 18 1947
FILED - DIRECTED

PAGE 13

form

An FBI routing slip addressed to various officials, with a handwritten instruction to prepare a note for Cuneo.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVE[REDACTED]IGATION

Room 5744 [HANDWRITTEN: 7-20] 1949

TO: Director
Mr. Ladd
Mr. Clegg
Mr. Glavin
Mr. Harbo
Mr. Nichols
Mr. Rosen
Mr. Tracy
Mr. Fletcher
Mr. Mohr
Mr. Carlson
Mr. Nease
Miss Gandy
Personnel Files Section
Records Section
Mrs. Skillman

See Me For Appropriate Action

Send File Note and Return
[HANDWRITTEN: Prepare note to Cuneo today]

Clyde Tolson

PAGE 14

memo

A document containing FBI receipt stamps and a handwritten note addressed to Mr. Ernest Cuneo at 40 Wall St., N.Y. N.Y.

RECEIVED
AUG 8 7 25 AM

MR. JONES
JUL 21 10 26 AM '49
RECEIVED
F B I
US DEPT OF JUSTICE

[HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Ernest Cuneo
40 Wall St.
N.Y. N.Y.
Dear Ernie:]

PAGE 15

memo

An FBI memo from the Los Angeles office reporting that an investigation into the whereabouts of Peter Camerlon Jones at 164 W. 37th Street was unsuccessful.

Federal Bureau of Investigation
United States Department of Justice

Los Angeles 13, California
July 13, 1949

[HANDWRITTEN: M8] DIRECTOR, FBI

Re: PETER CAMERLON JONES
INFORMATION CONCERNING

Dear Sir:

Re your teletype July 12, 1949.

Present owner for one and one half years and former manager of court for six years, which includes 164 W. 37th Street, Los Angeles, do not know PETER CAMERLON JONES.

Other investigation in an endeavor to locate JONES was not productive.

- RUC -

Very truly yours,
R. B. Hood [HANDWRITTEN: wgs]
R. B. HOOD, SAC

[HANDWRITTEN: Flying Saucers]

IHM; jcw
62-3364
AMSD

[HANDWRITTEN: 61 AUG 11 1949]
[HANDWRITTEN: 5-hr]

PAGE 16

letter

A letter from the FBI Los Angeles office to the Director regarding an investigation into Peter Cameron Jones, stating that he could not be located.

Federal Bureau of Investigation
United States Department of Justice

Los Angeles 13, California
July 13, 1949

DIRECTOR, FBI

RE: PETER CAMERON JONES
INFORMATION CONCERNING

Dear Sir:

Reference your letter of July 12, 1949.

Present owner for one and one half years and former manager
of coast for six years, which includes W. 37th Street, Los Angeles,
do not know PETER CAMERON JONES.

Investigation in an endeavor to locate JONES was not
productive.

Very truly yours,

[HANDWRITTEN: A. B. Hood]

A. B. HOOD

[STAMP: RECEIVED 65-3391]
[STAMP: RECEIVED JUL 18 1949 10 08 AM FBI]
[STAMP: INDEXED DEPT. OF JUSTICE]
[STAMP: RECORDED]
[STAMP: RECEIVED JUL 18 1949 49 AM FBI]
[HANDWRITTEN: 7-18-49]

PAGE 17

memo

An FBI memo from J. Edgar Hoover to the Los Angeles SAC requesting an investigation into a report by a man named Jones who claimed to have seen a silver, top-shaped object while hiking in 1947.

CC - 150
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
ROUTINE
JULY 12, 1949
TO: COMMUNICATIONS SECTION. SAC, LOS ANGELES
[HANDWRITTEN: KC 3-]
PETTransmit the following message to: [REDACTED] WEST THIRTYSEVENTH STREET, LOS ANGELES,
INFORMATION CONCERNING. SUBJECT ADDRESSED A LETTER TO WALTER WINCHELL
RELATING THAT IN AUGUST, NINETEEN FORTYSEVEN, HE WAS HIKING IN THE MOUNTAINS
OUT OF LA AND HE OBSERVED ABOUT ONE HALF BLOCK AWAY FROM HIM A LARGE SILVER
METAL OBJECT SHAPED LIKE A CHILD'S TOP ABOUT THE SIZE OF A BALLOON. HE
GAINED THE IMPRESSION THERE WAS LIFE WITHIN THE OBJECT THOUGH HE SAW NO
ONE. HE STOOD UP AND WAVED TOWARDS THE OBJECT AND WITHIN A SECOND IT
TOOK OFF, KNOCKING HIM TO THE GROUND. DISCREETLY CHECK BACKGROUND OF
JONES. THEREAFTER, INTERVIEW HIM FOR THE PURPOSE OF DETERMINING ANY FACTS
IN HIS POSSESSION CONCERNING THE STATEMENTS SET OUT HEREIN.
HOOVER
HBF:CMW
RECORDED - 59
INDEXED - 59
[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-193]
[HANDWRITTEN: flying saucers]
[HANDWRITTEN: Peter Jamerton Jones]
[HANDWRITTEN: Recd 7/19/49]
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
COMMUNICATIONS SECTION
JUL 12 1949
COPIES DESTROYED
NOV 18 1964
AUG 11 1949
SENT VIA TELEMETER

PAGE 18

PAGE 19

memo

An internal FBI memorandum from D.M. Ladd to the Director regarding a phone call from Ernest Cuneo about Walter Winchell's desire to publish a column concerning a letter about flying saucers.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

TO : THE DIRECTOR
FROM : D. M. Ladd
SUBJECT: FLYING SAUCERS

DATE: July 12, 1949

[HANDWRITTEN: 13]

I took a call from Ernest Cuneo by reference from your office. He referred to his call of last Saturday relative to a letter Mr. Winchell received from a man in Los Angeles concerning flying saucers. He stated that Winchell wanted to do a column on this letter if the Bureau had no objection.

I told him that whatever he did with reference to writing the story concerning this letter was entirely up to him and would in no way affect anything the Bureau was doing. I suggested that he might desire to check with the Air Corps inasmuch as the handling of flying saucers was a matter of primary interest to them. He stated, "To hell with the Air Force. He just didn't want to release the information if it would affect the Bureau".

DML:dad
[HANDWRITTEN: Walter Winchell]
[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-194]
[HANDWRITTEN: 3 AUG 19 1949]
[HANDWRITTEN: 61 AUG 11 1949]

PAGE 20

form

This page consists entirely of various FBI date-received stamps and routing notations.

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 12 12 44 PM '49

RECEIVED-FLETCHER
JUL 12 6 41 PM '49

RECEIVED
JUL 13 10 54 AM '49
REC'D ESPIONAGE
F B I
U S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED-H. EXAM '49
JUL 17 6 41 PM '49

RECEIVED-NICHOL
JUL 12 12 12 PM '49
F B I
U S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 13 3 22 PM '49

PAGE 21

memo

An FBI memorandum detailing a report from Ernest Cuneo regarding a letter from Peter Cameron Jones, who claimed to have witnessed a flying saucer in the mountains in 1947.

Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : The Director DATE: July 9, 1949
FROM : Mr. Ladd [HANDWRITTEN: initials]
SUBJECT: FLYING SAUCERS [HANDWRITTEN: initials]

Ernest Cuneo advised that Walter Winchell had received a letter from Peter Cameron Jones, 164 West 37th Street, Los Angeles 7, California. Mr. Cuneo read the letter to me and it was very well written, obviously by a man of intelligence. In this letter Jones stated that in August of 1947 he left Los Angeles for the mountains and started hiking through the mountains. About 10:00 A. M. he was lying on the ground when he observed about one-half block away from him a large silver metal, greenish in color, shaped like a child's top and about the size of the balloons used at County Fairs. He stated that there appeared to be two windows in the object and portions of metal appeared transparent and that he gained the impression that there was some life within this object although he saw no persons. The object appeared as though [REDACTED] as a pressure chamber. He stood up and waved towards this object and this so-called flying saucer was off the ground in a second, knocking Jones to the ground. In its flight he stated that its power was silent and he raised the question as to whether this was an inter-global landing on our planet. He thought that it might be a device to land in our planet because the occupants of another planet had become curious as to the reaction caused by the explosion of the atomic bomb causing trouble in an expanded universe. He left the question as to whether it was possible that the occupants of another planet might have solved the theory of negative gravity. [HANDWRITTEN: sealed.] [HANDWRITTEN: asked.]

Mr. Cuneo stated that this letter indicated a very good knowledge of physics and that he thought it would be interesting to check into Jones' background and then possibly interview him about this alleged flying saucer. Mr. Cuneo stated that it would appear that Jones may have actually seen a flying saucer, that in any event it made an awfully good story and he requested that the Bureau keep the matter in confidence.

I would recommend that the Los Angeles Office discreetly check into the background of Jones and thereafter interview him for the purpose of determining any facts he possesses about flying saucers in order that it may be determined whether his story is in any way accurate.

DML:dhb [HANDWRITTEN: Tele. La NBF 7-19-49] [HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-195] [HANDWRITTEN: 5] [HANDWRITTEN: 61 AUG 11 1949]

PAGE 22

memo

A memorandum from the SAC to the Director regarding a flying disc sighting reported by a witness on July 4, 1949.

OFFICE MEMORANDUM UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

TO: The Director

FROM: SAC, [REDACTED]

DATE: July 7, 1949

SUBJECT: FLYING DISCS

Reference is made to the memorandum dated July 5, 1949, concerning the sighting of a flying disc by [REDACTED] at [REDACTED], [REDACTED].

[REDACTED] stated that he was standing in his yard at approximately 10:00 P.M. on July 4, 1949, when he observed an object in the sky which he described as being about the size of a full moon. He stated that the object was moving in a southerly direction and that it appeared to be at a high altitude. Although he was unable to determine the exact nature of the object, he stated that it moved in a straight line and that it did not appear to be a plane or a meteor. He stated that he watched the object for approximately five minutes before it disappeared from view.

[REDACTED] stated that this information is being furnished for whatever value it may have in connection with the investigation of flying discs. He stated that he has no further information regarding this matter and that he would be willing to testify if necessary. He requested that his name be kept in confidence.

I would recommend that the files of this office be checked to determine if any other reports of flying discs have been received in this area and that this information be forwarded to the Bureau for their information.

PAGE 23

form

An internal FBI routing slip or contact list for Division Four, dated 1949, listing various personnel and office units with their associated extension numbers.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Division Four

____________________ 1949

Director, 5633
Mr. Tolson, 5744
Mr. Ladd, 5734
Mr. Clegg, 5256
Mr. Glavin, 5517
Mr. Harbo, 7641
Mr. Fletcher, 1742
Mr. Nichols, 5640
Mr. Rosen, 5706
Mr. Tracy, 4130 IB
Mr. McGuire, 5640
[HANDWRITTEN: /] Miss Gandy, 5633

Mr. Logue, 5263
Mr. Donohue, 3710
Fugitive Desk, 5720
Lab. Night Sup'r. 7619
Movement Section, 5266
Leave Clerk, 7623
Reading Room, 5531
Mail Room, 5533
Coding Unit, 4642
Routing, 7133

[HANDWRITTEN: 4]

Teletype Unit
Room 5644, Ext. 687

PAGE 24

memo

An FBI telemeter from the Los Angeles office to the Director regarding efforts to locate an individual named Peter Camerlon Jones, which have been unsuccessful.

[HANDWRITTEN: 105]
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
COMMUNICATIONS SECTION
JUL 18 1949
TELEMETER
[HANDWRITTEN: Mr. [ILLEGIBLE] 2244]
WASH 2 FROM LOS ANGELES 18 10-35 AM
DIRECTOR URGENT
PETER CAMERLON JONES, INFO. CONCERNING. REURTEL JULY EIGHTEEN.
EFFORTS TO IDENTIFY OR LOCATE JONES NEGATIVE.
HOOD
ACK PLS
RECORDED - 71 62-83894-196
INDEXED - 77 F B I 3 JUL 21 1949
[HANDWRITTEN: Flying saucers]
[HANDWRITTEN: to]
[HANDWRITTEN: file 5-EHM]
57 AUG 23 1949 EX-1

PAGE 25

other

A teletype message from the Los Angeles FBI office to the Director regarding the inability to identify or locate an individual named Behlef as of July 18, 1949.

RECEIVED TELETYPE UNIT
JUL 18 2 56 PM '49
F.B.I. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

TELETYPE

FROM LOS ANGELES
DIRECTOR URGENT

REFER WASHINGTON FILES INFO CONCERNING BEHLEF JULY EIGHTEEN.
EFFORTS TO IDENTIFY OR LOCATE BEHLEF NEGATIVE.
HOOD
ADM 219

PAGE 26

report

An intelligence report regarding a sighting of 6 or 7 flying discs in southern Oregon on May 27, 1949, reported by LTJG Joseph C. Shell.

N. N. I. 96-1943
ISSUED BY THE INTELLIGENCE DIVISION
OFFICE OF CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS
NAVY DEPARTMENT
INTELLIGENCE REPORT
Flying Discs
Serial [ILLEGIBLE] Monograph Index Guide No. [ILLEGIBLE]
From DIO-11ND at San Diego Date 23 June 1949
Reference CNO Conf Ser 04422P32 dtd 4 Nov 1948, subj: Flying Discs - Report Of
Source See Below. Evaluation B-3
Subject Unidentified Flying Objects - Report Of
BRIEF: While flying north in a private plane soure, who is believed to be reliable, saw 6 or 7 "flying discs" in southern Oregon 27 May 1949. The discs are described as elongated ovals, perhaps 20' in length; they flew in a steady file formation at between 200 to 250 MPH; they appeared to be made of unpainted metal; no smoke or exhaust trails were observed.
SOURCE: LTJG Joseph C. SHELL, A5(L), USNR (Inactive), Serial #348375, of 4575 Northridge Drive, Los Angeles, California. He was commissioned Ensign 5 January 1944. Served at Corpus Christi 30 days AV(T); in Dallas two months VRF-2(D). Ferried SNJ's from North American Company plants. Was at Willow Grove, Pennsylvania for 30 days. Served at check-out base for ferry squadron VRF(2) at Columbus; served at Columbus until August 1945. Source then was with VRF(3) at Terminal Island, California, where he became legal and personnel officer. Was discharged from the Navy in January 1946 as LTJG.
Source holds Naval Aviator's Certificate #C-17945, plus a senior pilot's rating in the Ferry Wing of the Naval Air Transport Command. He also holds a commercial license, single and multi-engine, and flight instructor's ratings. His flight time began in 1934 and now totals over 5000 hours, of which time 1300 hours were in the U.S. Navy. Source secured a private license in 1935, a transport license in 1937, a commercial pilot's license in 1938, and a re-issue commercial pilot's license in 1945 (#184256). From March 1942 to September 1943 he was flight instructor for the Army Air Force (5 months as primary instructor at Cal-Aero, and the balance of the time as basic instructor at Lancaster, California). From September 1943 to January 1944 he flew for the Superior Oil Company of California.
Since 1940 source has been Vice-President of the Royal Petroleum Company of California, Long Beach, a concern in which he and his relations own all of the stock; he also is part-owner of three other oil producing concerns in Southern California.
Source is married and has three children. He has a B.S. and B.A. degree from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California; he also had two years of law at the University of Southern California. Source is thirty years of age, but appears to have a background of experience few men his age possess. He is believed to be conservative, sincere, absolutely reliable, and very competent.
[HANDWRITTEN: Web page. With no added info. E.M. MACCABEE]
[HANDWRITTEN: Rec'd 8/31/49]
[HANDWRITTEN: Flying Discs]
[HANDWRITTEN: Declassified by NIS letter, 9/28/77, concerning request of BRUCE S. MACCABEE 7306 79 10/3/77]
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-197]
[HANDWRITTEN: 52 AUG 22 1949]

PAGE 27

cover-page

This is a blank cover page containing FBI date-received stamps from August 4, 1949.

RECEIVED
AUG 4 10 13 AM '49
REC'D ESPIONAGE
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

RECEIVE
AUG 4 4 18 PM '49
F B I
INTERNAL SECURITY
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

PAGE 28

report

This report details a pilot's observation of several unidentified flying objects while flying an SNJ-type aircraft from Red Bluff, California to Burns, Oregon on May 27, 1949.

CONFIDENTIAL
DIO-11ND Serial 38-49
23 June 1949
Subject: Unidentified Flying Objects - Report of.

REPORT: Unidentified Flying Objects Observed in Oregon 27 May 1949.

On Friday, 27 May 1949, source was flying his own SNJ-type aircraft from Red Bluff, California to Burns, Oregon, a distance of 305 miles. He left Red Bluff at 1332 P.S.T. and arrived at Burns at 1458 P.S.T. (elapsed time: 1 hour 26 minutes). Source landed at Burns after circling the town twice, which consumed about ten minutes. While an SNJ's normal maximum speed is 170 MPH, source "demilitarized" his plane (which he had purchased at War Surplus, lightening the plane by about 600 lbs.) and it makes around 200 MPH true air speed. While on this flight he made 212 MPH ground speed; source estimates he had a tail wind of 15 to 18 MPH.

At 1425 Pacific Standard Time, Friday, 27 May 1949, source observed the sun reflecting on an object or objects at a considerable distance ahead, a few points to the starboard. He continued to watch the course taken by the reflecting material expecting it to materialize into conventional aircraft as the distance lessened between him and the object or objects. As the objects reached the long bluffs (shown on the Boise (V-2) Aeronautical Chart as Hart Mountain) which run for a number of miles along the east side of some dry lakes (Swamp, Flagstaff, Campbell and Stone Corral Lakes) he saw that instead of a single object there were several, which seemed to be flying in formation.

At this point the objects appeared to have changed their course so that they were paralleling his course (southwest to his northeast) and were following the bluffs' rim at about 1000 to 1500 feet below source's altitude, at a distance which he estimates to have been 5 1/2 to 7 1/2 miles. Source is certain that it could not have been as far as 10 miles since the bluffs were less than 10 miles away and he could see the objects outlined against the bluffs.

The objects that source saw are described by him as follows:
Size of each object: Considerably smaller than a fighter plane, probably less than 20' in length. All of the separate objects appeared to be the same in size.
Shape of objects: There was no break in the outline. Source is certain he would have recognised conventional aircraft. They had a solid configuration, and no great thickness. They were elongated oval, perhaps twice as long as wide, and perhaps five times as long as thick. Source points out he observed the objects from an angle from above and could not easily estimate their thickness; they could possibly have been egg-shaped, and could conceivably have been perfectly oval. The objects seemed definitely solid objects - there was nothing ethereal about them.
Speed of objects: Source is confident they were traveling at least as fast as source's own plane (212 MPH). Source had a tail wind of 15 to 18 MPH and the objects would therefore have been doing over 230 MPH air speed. The objects were traveling south/southwest, opposite to source's course. Calculating the speed of the objects, several different ways from the facts at hand, the speed of the objects varies between 190 to 260 MPH. Source concluded at the time of observation that he could not possibly have turned around and caught up with the objects. They were definitely traveling faster than a group of birds, and slower than jet planes. No trail of smoke or exhaust was observed. The speed of the objects appeared to be steady.
Terrain, elevations, population, etc. in area: Source flew at 9000' MSL which was between 4000' and 5000' above terrain. During most of the time of observation, the objects were 1000' to possibly 1500' below source's plane. Towards the end of sighting when source had begun to come down he was almost on a level with them in altitude.

PAGE 29

report

A report detailing the observation of unidentified flying objects in a valley, including descriptions of the terrain, the objects' formation, and weather conditions at the time of the sighting.

CONFIDENTIAL
DIO-11ND Serial 38-49 23 June 1949
Subject: Unidentified Flying Objects - Report of.

The valley through which source flew north, and the objects flew south, is roughly 12 miles wide. The floor of the valley is between 4000' to 5000' in elevation. The east side of the valley is dominated by Hart Mountain (8020' in elevation). Hart Mountain stands on an elongated bluff, which has an almost sheer drop of around 1000'. The bluff, and all the terrain, against which source saw the objects is quite dark in color. The objects stood out in contrast to the dark color. The objects appeared to be unpainted metal.

The rim of the bluff on the east side of the valley is about 7000' in elevation. From where source saw the objects (at 9000' elevation) they were roughly in line with the rim of the bluff (7000'). Assuming the objects were 1 to 3 miles away from the bluff-rim, they were probably flying at about 8000' MSL, and about 3500' above the valley floor.

The valley where source sighted the objects is sparsely populated; however, there are a number of ranches there - more than are indicated on the Boise (V-2) Aeronautical Chart. Source believes that if persons living in the valley were questioned, chances are several might be found who saw the objects from the ground. Source has flown through this valley many times in going between California and Oregon and does not recall ever having seen another airplane in the valley where he sighted the objects. The valley is not a commercial airway route, and is seldom used by private planes. Source does not recall ever seeing any automobiles on the dirt roads in the valley, shown as such on the Boise (V-2) section of Aeronautical Chart.

Number and formation of objects: At the beginning of observation, when the objects were a few degrees to the starboard of dead ahead, source could not distinguish separate objects - all he saw were reflections; however, as he came closer and passed them by 5 1/2 to 7 1/2 miles he definitely saw 6 or 7 separate objects. To be on the safe side source states with positiveness that there were no less than 5 objects and no more than 8.

The objects were always in file formation (one behind the other) and there appeared to be no change in altitude of the formation. The space between the lead object and the next one was three or four times the length of one of the objects. The distance between the second and the following objects was between one-half and two-thirds the length of the objects. Accordingly, if the objects were 20' in length, the distance between #1 and #2 was 60 to 80 feet, and the distance between #2 and the others was between 10 and 17 feet. The distance between the objects appeared very constant. The objects were so close and appeared to keep their formation spacing in a manner which indicated they might have been under tow by the leading object. At the distance of sighting, no connection, if there was any, could possibly have been observed. Source is positive that the objects were separate objects because he was able to see terrain between them. The formation did not fluctuate in flight; the objects flew very evenly and steadily. When, some [ILLEGIBLE] objects they were going out of visual range on the horizon.

Weather and visibility at time of observation: Visibility was exceptionally good. Source could see Harney Lake, 60 miles away, and could see smoke rising from the saw mills at Burns, Oregon, 75 miles away. There were a few scattered clouds at between 14,000' and 18,000'. The weather report at the time indicated "scattered clouds at 18,000'". The air was very smooth. Normally the air in the area is light to mildly turbulent. The sun was west of source; that is, source's plane was between the sun and the objects.

Location of sighting objects: (Refer to Boise (V-2) Sectional Aeronautical Chart). Source's location when objects were first sighted

PAGE 30

report

This report details the sighting of unidentified flying objects, providing specific coordinates for the observer and the objects, and concludes that conventional explanations like aircraft, balloons, or pilot error are insufficient to explain the sighting.

CONFIDENTIAL
DIO-11ND Serial 38-49
23 June 1949
Subject: Unidentified Flying Objects - Report Of.

observed the objects. This position could possibly be as much as five miles SSW of the position given. Source's location when objects left his visual range was 42°41'N, 119°49'W. Source flew in a straight line between these coordinates.
Location of objects when first observed: 42°38'N, 119°43'W.
Location of objects when last seen: 42°28'N, 119°48'W.
The objects made a slight change of course from quartering to paralleling source's straight line of flight.

REPORTING OFFICER'S COMMENT: It is believed that conventional aircraft, bird balloons, astronomical phenomena, and auto-hypnosis can be eliminated as an explanation for the objects sighted by source. Since source was not flying into the sun and since he is an expert pilot-instructor, VERTIGO does not appear to be a reasonable explanation; nor do reflections on, or irregularities of, the plexi-glass canopy through which source viewed the objects offer a reasonable explanation, because of the wide range of observance of the objects. As far as the reporting officer's comment is concerned (as well as source's own comment) the explanation of source's sighting of the strange flying objects remains a question mark.

PAGE 31

memo

A memo from the San Antonio SAC to the FBI Director regarding the handling of reports on flying disks observed near Camp Hood, Texas, proposing to destroy reports that lack FBI interest to save space.

Director, FBI
August 16, 1949
SAC, San Antonio
PROTECTION OF VITAL INSTALLATIONS

I am attaching hereto a number of copies of reports being received in great numbers in this office concerning the so-called flying disks or unnatural phenomena being frequently observed around Camp Hood, Texas. This is, of course, a primary concern of the Air Corps. Consequently, this office is following the practice of reviewing these data and then destroying them in the event there appears to be nothing of FBI interest therein. It is pointed out that the filing of these would result in the rapid accumulation of very bulky files.

Unless the Bureau believes this is unwise, this practice will continue.

Encls.

CEW:cs
100-7545

[HANDWRITTEN: copies of reports filed with original]

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894]
NOT RECORDED
149 AUG 28 1949
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894]
51 SEP 9 1949

PAGE 32

memo

An FBI telemeter memo regarding a U.P. press release about the U.S. Air Force searching for a Jonathan Caldwell in connection with flying disks discovered in Marley Park, MD.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
COMMUNICATIONS SECTION
AUG 20 1949
[HANDWRITTEN: cw]
TELEMETER

[HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Tolson... Mr. Ladd... Mr. Clegg... Mr. Glavin... Mr. Nichols... Mr. Rosen... Mr. Tracy... Mr. Harbe... Mr. Mohr... Tele. Room... Mr. Nease... Miss Gandy... Fletcher...]

WASHINGTON FROM LOSA 3 20 240 pm
[REDACTED] 20 2-40 PM
DIRECTOR URGENT

RE FLYING DISKS. LA TIMES, AUG. TWENTY, ARTICLE DATE[REDACTED] LINED, WASHINGTON, AUG. NINETEEN, U.P. RELEASE, INDICATING U. S. AIR FORCE SEARCHING FOR JONATHAN CALDWELL WHO MADE FLYING DISKS DISCOVERED IN MARLEY PARK MD. INFO RECEIVED J. E. CALDWELL LOCATED AT ONE FOUR FIVE SIX - NINTH ST. MANHATTAN BEACH ; CALIF. THIS INFO BEING FURNISHED OSI,/// OSI, MAYWOOD, MONDAY UNLESS ADVISED TO CONTRARY.

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83874-198]
[HANDWRITTEN: RECORDED - 99]
[HANDWRITTEN: 56 SEP 1 1949]
[HANDWRITTEN: cc: Mr. Fletcher]
[HANDWRITTEN: 4:30 P.M. 8-21-49]

PAGE 33

cover-page

This is a cover page containing various date and time stamps from the FBI Teletype Unit and other internal departments, indicating the processing of a document.

RECEIVED TELETYPE UNIT
AUG 20 7 11 PM '49
F.B.I. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

CORRELATION-LIAISON
F.B.I.
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
AUG 22 12 41 PM '49

AUG 22 9 59 AM '49
S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
AUG 22 2 45 PM '49
RECEIVED-FLETCHER

PAGE 34

memo

An urgent FBI memo from J. Edgar Hoover to the Los Angeles SAC regarding the address of J. E. Caldwell in Manhattan Beach, California, in relation to a flying disk investigation.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

To: COMMUNICATIONS SECTION.

Transmit the following message to: AUGUST 21, 1949
SAC, LOS ANGELES URGENT

[HANDWRITTEN: my]
FLYING DISKS. REURTEL AUGUST TWENTY LAST. BUREAU ADVISING OSI HEADQUARTERS
TODAY OF ADDRESS J. E. CALDWELL, MANHATTAN BEACH, CALIFORNIA. YOU SHOULD ALSO
FURNISH THIS ADDRESS OSI REPRESENTATIVE YOUR DIVISION TODAY. HOOVER.

JEN:ed

cc- Mr. Newby
Mr. Sanders
Mr. Whitson
Mr. Fletcher

[HANDWRITTEN: G.I.R. 4]

[HANDWRITTEN: Ah]

RECORDED - 30 62-83894-199
EX-34
[HANDWRITTEN: 2 AUG 22 1949]
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
COMMUNICATIONS SECTION

AUG 21 1949

TELEMETER

[HANDWRITTEN: 62 AUG 31 1949]
SENT VIA M Per
COPIES DESTROYED
270 NOV 18 1964

PAGE 35

PAGE 36

PAGE 37

letter

A letter from FBI Director John Edgar Hoover to Maurice E. Hatten informing him that the FBI lacks jurisdiction outside the United States and suggesting he contact the Department of State regarding his previous inquiry.

[HANDWRITTEN: RECORDED 36]
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-201]

October 12, 1949

Mr. Maurice E. Hatten
419 East Main Street
Circleville, Ohio

Dear Mr. Hatten:

Your letter dated October 8, 1949, has been received and in response to your request I am returning it to you at this time.

For your information the jurisdiction of this Bureau does not extend outside the United States and its Possessions. It is therefore suggested that you may wish to communicate with the Division of International Press and Publications, Office of Public Affairs, United States Department of State, 21st Street and Virginia Avenue, Washington, D. C., with regard to the suggestion made in your letter.

Sincerely yours,

John Edgar Hoover
Director

[HANDWRITTEN: Enclosure]

NOTE: The enclosure is incoming letter being returned to correspondent at his request.

ARA:cjh
[HANDWRITTEN: aka md]
[HANDWRITTEN: signature]

COMMUNICATIONS SECTION
MAILED 11
OCT 12 1949 P.M.
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

PAGE 38

letter

A letter from Maurice E. Hatten to J. Edgar Hoover suggesting that the U.S. use small balloons or cardboard disks to drop printed information into the USSR as a counter-measure to Soviet use of flying disks.

- C O P Y -

419 East Main Street
Circleville, Ohio
1949 October 8
permanent address: Route 2
Delaware, Ohio

Mr. J. Edgar Hoover
Director
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Department of Justice
Washington, D. C.

Dear Mr. Hoover:

It is requested that this letter be returned to the above
address and no record of it kept in FBI files.

If is it true that the Soviet leaders intend to use the
flying disk in an attempt to confuse and terrify the American
people, why should we not state to the United Nations that
we believe this condition to exist and further request per-
mission from United Nations to fly American printed statements
into the USSR in the interests of peace and better understanding
between the two nations? To prevent the belief that such a
method would be used, be either nation, to carry bombs rather
than paper, it should be pointed out that it is not necessary
to employ airplanes for the purpose insofar as actually flying
over enemy territory is concerned. There are several possible
means of placing information at the disposal of citizens of
either country via air; I mention small balloons incapable of
carrying more than a few pounds, or finned, cardboard disks
capable of drifting on wind currents for great distances after
release from several miles height (I reserve the right to
claim patent rights to the latter "flying newspaper".)

Inasmuch as we have been told that the Communist Party is a
very small minority in the USSR, it is impossible to prevent
information, printed, from reaching many good people there if
flown in by the millions. Of couse there would be a penalty
in Russia for reading them if cought, but curiosity being
curiosity, many would be read and remembered. And no one
really believes that children could be prevented from picking
up objects floating in from another country.

[HANDWRITTEN: INDEXED - 36 RECORDED - 36 62-83894-201]

Shall freedom of the press be defended in some countries at
cost in lives, yet denied across nations, the latter being
contrary to United Nations principles?

Yours sincerely,

s/ Maurice E. Hatten

[HANDWRITTEN: AMC CL 10-12-49 RA]

PAGE 39

memo

An FBI memorandum from the Pittsburgh office regarding Glen Sprouse, who provided a letter detailing a flying disc sighting following a flight from Clark Field to Parkersburg, West Virginia.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : DIRECTOR, FBI DATE: October 2, 1949
FROM : SAC, Pittsburgh
SUBJECT: GLEN SPROUSE, Informant
FLYING DISCS, MISCELLANEOUS

On September 26, 1949, GLEN SPROUSE, 608 Montrose Drive, S. Charleston, West Virginia, appeared at the Charleston, West Virginia, resident agency and gave to Special Agent JOHN B. WOODRUFF the attached letter. Mr. SPROUSE stated that he had written the letter following a pleasure flight from Clark Field, St. Albans, West Virginia, to Parkersburg, West Virginia, on September 25, 1949. Mr. SPROUSE stated that after writing the letter, he did not know whether it would be of any interest to the FBI and decided that instead of mailing it directly to the Bureau at Washington, he would contact the local agent and turn it over to him if it were thought it would be of interest to the Bureau.

Mr. SPROUSE stated that he has set out the complete details of this incident in his letter and that there is nothing further that he can add. He further stated that he is certain this was not a mirage and that it actually occurred.

No further action is being taken by this office unless specified to do so by the Bureau.

ENCL
JHW/jw
62-0
[HANDWRITTEN: EX-119] [HANDWRITTEN: Let to Air Force ehm-g 10-14-49] [HANDWRITTEN: For Security Division] [HANDWRITTEN: 87] RECORDED 87 62-83894-202 INDEXED-87 13 OCT 25 949 [HANDWRITTEN: FIVE-Ehm]

PAGE 40

memo

This is a mostly blank office memorandum page containing only administrative date stamps and handwritten notes indicating receipt by the FBI in October 1949.

Office Memorandum UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

[HANDWRITTEN: Jones 10/5]

[HANDWRITTEN: MR JONES OCT 5 2:43 PM '49]

[HANDWRITTEN: RECEIVED RECORDS SEG OCT 5 11:59 AM '49]

F B RECEIVED
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE
OCT 10 10 04 AM '49
F B I
REC'D ESPIONAGE
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

PAGE 41

letter

A letter from Glen Sprouse to the FBI reporting a sighting of a small, rocket-shaped yellow object while flying his Luscombe 8A aircraft near Parkersburg, West Virginia, on September 25, 1949.

608 Montrose Drive
S. Charleston, W. Va.
September 25, 1949.

Federal Bureau of Investigation
Washington D. C.

Gentlemen: [HANDWRITTEN: (9/25/49)]

An incident happened this afternoon which after consideration I felt I should report. I most certainly do not want this incident disclosed, as I do not want any publicity concerning it. If you regard it of no special interest to the F.B.I. please disregard this correspondence.

I was flying from Clark Field to Parkersburg, W. Va. this afternoon and about four miles airline, southwest of Parkersburg, I suddenly noticed a bright yellow object coming directly towards me. It came at me with such speed, added to my 100 m.p.h. forward speed that it startled me and had passed by in a matter of a couple of seconds, But it passed by about 100 feet under my ship and about 50 feet to my right, and because of the dark green background of the forests below I was able to get a very clear outline of the object, and what I believe is a very accurate description.
Color - bright canary yellow
Length- about 15 to 18 inches
Diameter- About 4"-in the largest part
It resembled a rocket, in fact was about the same shape and proportions as the fuselage of a Lockheed Air Force X-90
No wings but vertical and horizontal fins on rear 1/3 of the rocket.
No visable means of propulsion such as propeller, vapor trail, smoke or exhaust.
The front of the rocket was very sharp with a needle nose, the needle looked about 6" long and was the size of a lead pencil.
The rear end was blunt similar to the rear end of a jet fuselage.

I was flying my ship, a Luscombe 8A, NC 1440K and was traveling about 100 m.p.h. at the time.
I was at 3450 ft above sea level at the time.
I was flying a compass course of 60 degrees, a nd the rocket was traveling almost west at 240 degrees.
It happened about 2:45 P.M. on the above date.
The visability was exceptionally good, about 30 miles.
The yellow object looked very sharp and clearly outlined because of the dark green background,
If you will refer to the Huntington sectional aerial map this abject was sighted over a very small town named Lubeck, which is about 4 miles direct west of South Parkersburg.
It appeared to have spent it's force and seemed to be dropping slightly as it had been fired or launched from a higher altitude than the altitude I was flying. end
My wife was with me but she did not see the object, and I did not tell her of the incident until we had landed at Parkersburg.

Very truly yours,
Glen Sprouse [HANDWRITTEN: 10-18-49] [HANDWRITTEN: ENCLOSURE 87 62-83894-202]

PAGE 42

memo

An FBI memo from J. Edgar Hoover to the Office of Special Investigations regarding a report of a flying disc sighting near Parkersburg, West Virginia, on September 25, 1949.

RECORDED 87
62-83894-202
[HANDWRITTEN: Declassified 2840 8/21/77 Jm]
CONFIDENTIAL
REGISTERED MAIL
Date: October 19, 1949
To: Director
Office of Special Investigations
The Inspector General
Department of the Air Force
The Pentagon
Washington, D. C.
From: John Edgar Hoover - Director, Federal Bureau of Investigation
Subject: FLYING DISCS

There is set forth the following unverified information relating to the captioned matter which was furnished to this Bureau by a confidential source whose reliability is unknown and who has requested that his identity not be revealed.

"I was flying from ... to Parkersburg, W. Va. this afternoon (September 25, 1949) and about four miles airline, southwest of Parkersburg, I suddenly noticed a bright yellow object coming directly towards me. It came at me with such speed, added to my 100 m.p.h. forward speed that it startled me and had passed by in a matter of a couple of seconds, but it passed by about 100 feet under my ship and about 50 feet to my right, and because of the dark green background of the forests below I was able to get a very clear outline of the object, and what I believe is a very accurate description.

"Color - bright canary yellow
"Length - about 15 to 18 inches
"Diameter - about 4" in the largest part

"It resembled a rocket, in fact was about the same shape and proportions as the fuselage of a Lockheed Air Force X-90

[HANDWRITTEN: EHM:cg:rmh]
[HANDWRITTEN: initials]

PAGE 43

report

This page contains a witness account describing the physical characteristics, flight path, and sighting location of a rocket-like object observed from an aircraft.

"No wings but vertical and horizontal fins on rear 1/3 of the rocket.

"No visable means of propulsion such as propeller, vapor trail, smoke or exhaust.

"The front of the rocket was very sharp with a needle nose, the needle looked about 6" long and was the size of a lead pencil.

"The rear end was blunt similar to the rear end of a jet fuselage.

"I was flying my ship ... and was traveling about 100 m.p.h. at the time.

"I was at 3450 ft. above sea level at the time.

"I was flying a compass course of 60 degrees, and the rocket was traveling almost west at 240 degrees.

"It happened about 2:45 P.M. on the above date.

"The visability was exceptionally good, about 30 miles.

"The yellow object looked very sharp and clearly outlined because of the dark green background.

"If you will refer to the Huntington sectional aerial map this abject was sighted over a very small town named Lubeck, which is about 4 miles direct west of South Parkersburg.

"It appeared to have spent it's force and seemed to be dropping slightly as it passed by, or had been fired or launched from a higher altitude than the altitude I was flying."

The above has been furnished to you for your information and assistance in connection with the captioned matter.

- 2 -

PAGE 44

memo

An incoming classified message from OSI regarding a report from Rudy Fick about a man named Coulter who claimed to have seen crashed flying saucers from Venus near the New Mexico-Arizona border.

SECRET
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
STAFF MESSAGE DIVISION
INCOMING CLASSIFIED MESSAGE
[HANDWRITTEN: Flying Discs] [HANDWRITTEN: Bob Baum Gardner Wilson]
SECRET
PRIORITY
FROM: HQ 13TH OSI DST OFFUTT AFB, OMAHA, NEBRASKA
TO : DIR OF SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS HQ USAF, WASH., D.C.
INFO: DIST COMDR 14 OSI DIST LOWRY AFB, COLO (ZEN)
DIST COMDR 17 OSI DIST KIRTLAND AFB, NEW MEXICO (ZEN)
NR : OSI 8 16 January 1950
(THIS IS REHAS OSI 8 DTD 14 JAN 50. CATEGORY BAKER MESSAGE).

Rudy Fick says Flying saucers from Venus came to earth by accident. Rudy Fick, well known Kansas City auto dealer stopped in Denver 2 weeks ago while returning from Ogden, Utah. At that time he called on the manager of Ford Agency. Their conversation was interrupted by some engineers arriving for a meeting; one of whom was a man named Coulter. Coulter revealed some startling information. He (Coulter) stated he "Crashed the Gate" at a radar station near New Mexico and Arizona borders, and while there he saw 2 of the highly secret "Flying Saucers." Spot report details---the information contained herein was furnished from article which appeared in the Wyandotte Echo newspaper, Kansas City, Kansas, 6 January 1950. Of the two Flying saucers one was badly damaged and the other almost perfectly intact. They consisted of 2 parts, a cockpit or cabin about 6 feet in diameter. A ring 18 feet across and 2 feet thick surrounded the cabin. The cabin was constructed of metal resembling aluminum, but the actual make of the metal has defied analysis. Coulter had a piece of the metal in his possession and gave it to the Ford man to send to the Dearborne plant for analysis. This man (Coulter) showed the group, including Fick, a clock or automatic calendar which was taken from one of the Flying Saucers. This clock or automatic calendar consisted of 2 pieces of metal together with some unusual type of metal. On the face of 1 or 2 pieces of this metal there appeared an indentation which rotated around the disk completing a cycle each 28 days. According to the information given Coulter around 50 of these flying saucers have been found in the United States in a period of 2 years. Of these, 40 are in the 7 US Research Bureau in Los Angeles. Each of the craft had a crew of 2. The bodies in the damaged ship were charred, but the other ship's occupants were in a perfect state of preservation, although dead.
[REDACTED]
(16 Jan 50) 62-83814-203
[HANDWRITTEN: Received Major Col 1-23-50 E/S A.F. is the then] [HANDWRITTEN: FEB 13 1950] [HANDWRITTEN: RECORDED-31] [HANDWRITTEN: SECRET EX-10] [HANDWRITTEN: 5-Ettm]

PAGE 45

memo

This document describes the physical characteristics of entities found in a ship, discusses the potential public reaction to news of interplanetary travel, and outlines investigative actions to be taken by OSI districts.

SECRET

Page 2

All were uniform height of 3 feet; blond, beardless and their teeth were completely free of fillings or cavities. They wore no under garments, but had their bodies taped and were dressed in a sort of wire. A quantity of food in tablet form was found in ship. Mr. Fick assumed that the reason behind the apparent lack of security was that the Government wanted the information spread from unofficial sources until people are more or less familiar with the facts. Mr. Fick feels that the security department of the military fear that the sudden shock of a surprise announcement that interplanitary travel is possible might cause mass hysteria. Fick is well known locally and has a number of friends at the Kansas City Star. OSI District 13 will interview Fick and will make additional inquiries at the Kansas City Star. Coulter not otherwise identified, but can be reached through Ford agency in Denver. Action: Information copies furnished OSI Districts 14 and 17 for action. The editor of the Kansas City Star stated that while they were aware of this story they did not dare publish it in the paper because it is too fantastic.

ACTION: DIRECTOR, SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS

INFO : DCS/O DIRECTOR OF INTELLIGENCE
DCS/O DIRECTOR OF PLANS & OPERATIONS
DCS/O POLICY DIVISION
CHIEF OF STAFF'S LOG, USAF

CAF IN: 7130 (16 Jan 50) DTG: 16/1430Z CVC/lws
RC 28/16th

SECRET

PAGE 46

memo

This is a Department of the Air Force incoming classified message regarding the downgrading of a TWX and spot intelligence report titled 'Flying Saucers From Venus Come To Earth'.

CONFIDENTIAL
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
STAFF MESSAGE DIVISION
INCOMING CLASSIFIED MESSAGE

CONFIDENTIAL
PRIORITY

FROM: 13 OSI DIST OFFUTT AFB, OMAHA NEBRASKA, SGD THOMPSON
TO : CSAF, WASHINGTON 25, D.C.
DIST COMDR 14TH OSI DIST LOWRY AFB, COLORADO
DIST COMDR 17TH OSI DIST KIRTLAND AFB ALBUQUERQUE,
NEW MEXICO

NR : OSI 11. 17 January 1950

This refers to TWX from 13th OSI District, Offutt AFB,
Omaha, Nebraska, dated 13 January and spot intelligence report
dated 16 January, subject: "Flying Saucers From Venus Come To
Earth." For your information both TWX and spot report are down-
graded to Confidential.

NOTE: Reference TWX is CAF-IN-7130, 17 Jan 50 (OSI).

ACTION: CSI.
INFO : ODS, OIN, OPO, OOP, OPY, CAG-30.
CAF IN: 7 3 3 1. (18 Jan 50) DTG: 172110Z. RCW/jgl.

CONFIDENTIAL RC-NBR: 25/18.

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-203]
ENCLOSURE
CONFIDENTIAL

PAGE 47

letter

A handwritten letter from E. B. Pfeil to the FBI regarding a theory about flying saucers.

[HANDWRITTEN: 1-24-50
1958 Fitzgerald St
Phila 45 Pa
24-1-50
Re:- Flying Saucers
Gentlemen: With the persistant debates pro & con on the above. It sort of annoys me and since I have an opinion of inter-national nature, I'd feel pretty bad if I happened to be right and it resulted in harm to my country
I realize I might be wasting your time (my theory perhaps having been considered and discounted) but on the other hand if it's a new angle it might bear investigation
Very Truly
[HANDWRITTEN: (YMA)]
RECORDED 128
[HANDWRITTEN: E. B. Pfeil.
My store is open 6:30 am to 7 pm (1 pm Wed)
[ILLEGIBLE] lunch home (1 to 2 pm.)]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1/30/50 nde]]

PAGE 48

letter

A letter from FBI Director John Edgar Hoover to Mr. Ferdinand E. Pfeil acknowledging receipt of his letter regarding flying saucers and stating that the FBI is not investigating the matter.

January 30, 1950

[HANDWRITTEN: at me] RECORDED - 128
INDEXED - 128 [HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-204]
Mr. Ferdinand E. Pfeil
1953 Fitzgerald Street
Philadelphia 45, Pennsylvania

Dear Mr. Pfeil:

Your letter of January 24, 1950, has been received and while I appreciate your offer to furnish me your observations concerning the flying saucers, this matter is not being investigated by the FBI.

Sincerely yours,

John Edgar Hoover
Director

NJC:aip
[HANDWRITTEN: aip]
[HANDWRITTEN: olson add legg lavin ichols osen racy arbo ohr ele. Room ase ndy]
[HANDWRITTEN: Hutche] [HANDWRITTEN: 140] FEB 15 1950
[STAMP: MAR 10 FEB 1 - 1950 COMM FBI]
[STAMP: U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE RECEIVED READING ROOM JAN 31 5 42 PM '50 F B I]

PAGE 49

other

This page contains various date stamps indicating receipt of a document by different FBI departments or personnel in February 1950.

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U. S. DEPT OF JUSTICE
FEB 2 4 01 PM '50

RECEIVED-ROOM
F B I
U. S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
FEB 1 12 29 PM '50

RECEIVED-FLETCHER
FEB 2 2 1 PM '50

PAGE 50

letter

A handwritten letter from a resident of Paxinos, PA, to the government reporting a list of dates and times they observed 'flying discs' or 'saucers' and requesting that these sightings be verified against official project records.

[HANDWRITTEN: ne Paxino Pa Feb 12th 1950]

[HANDWRITTEN: [HANDWRITTEN: flying SAUCERS] Dear Sir.
I am writing you about the flying discs Saucers and am I am enclosing dates which I would like for you to have checked with flying Saucers Project to see if any were reported on the dates I have down below.
Date. time Direction from my Home.
Jan 25th 1950. 10.15 A.M. Southeast
3.00 P.M. Southwest.
4.00 P.M.
Jan 26th 1950 11.30 A.M. till 12.30 P.M South - or east.
Jan 27th 1950 12.00 noon. South
1.45 P.M. 9 P.M night
9.00 P.M. East
Jan 28th 1950 11.00 AM
Jan 29th 1950 1.00 P.M. also night 8 P.M.
Jan 30th 1950 2.00 P.M. northwest
Feb 3rd 1950. 10.AM-11.AM 12.0 noon. Southeast
Feb 4th 1950 11.30 AM 2.30 P.M. Southwest
Feb 8th 1950 11.45 AM till 12.15 P.M noon 1.30 P.M till 2.05
Feb 10th 1950 - night 8.40 P.M. West

The reason for having you check these I dont trust anybody unless you say ok I wont make any claims but try to furnish proof that I know More about flying disc than anybody this have found yet. I will send more dates from time to time to prove what I say. All I ask is that if any was seen please give place time and date so I can check. My list, and above all I dont want any snoopers around my place. Also ask you please not to tell anybody for there may be a lot of things I will tell you after while. I dont want any dates before Jan 25th 1950. Please make sure that anyone checking the dates is 100 Percent American [HANDWRITTEN: over] [HANDWRITTEN: Ack 2/20/50 MAD]]

PAGE 51

letter

A handwritten letter from Walter Fisher to Mr. Jones regarding the desire for privacy in correspondence and a suggestion for the 'Saucer's Project' to verify sightings using his list of dates.

[HANDWRITTEN: II]
[HANDWRITTEN: 2/16/50]
[HANDWRITTEN: Or. Sending any letter I send you it might be better if after a while as I send you date's that I really know. to to find something to find a better way to contact one each other. for their are Snoopers in the Postal service talking about Postal Service if you answer this letter please do not use letterhead just plain letter will do for I dont want any Postal clerks getting ideas -- the truth is I dont want anyone but you to know where or [REDACTED] the letters are from.]
[HANDWRITTEN: Thanking You I remain]
[HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Walter Fisher]
[HANDWRITTEN: R.D #1]
[HANDWRITTEN: Paxinos, Pa]
[HANDWRITTEN: P.S. If Saucer's Project want to clear this up quick I have a idea of how they can do same and will be able to check and find out who really did see them let them have people be on the lookout for them give the exact time and place. thus they can check My list of dates. I send you.]
[HANDWRITTEN: MR JONES]
[HANDWRITTEN: FEB 16 12 18 PM '50]
[HANDWRITTEN: RECEIVED]
[HANDWRITTEN: F B I]
[HANDWRITTEN: U.S DEPT OF JUSTICE]

PAGE 52

letter

A letter from FBI Director John Edgar Hoover to Mr. Walter Fisher acknowledging receipt of information provided by Fisher and instructing him to contact the Philadelphia FBI office for any future correspondence.

RECORDED - 125
INDEXED - 125

February 20, 1950

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-205]

Mr. Walter Fisher
Route 1
Parinos, Pennsylvania

Dear Mr. Fisher:

Your letter of February 12, 1950, has been received and I appreciate your thoughtfulness in making available the information which you furnished.

If in the future additional data comes to your attention which you feel should be made available to the FBI please feel free to furnish it to Mr. A. Cornelius, Special Agent in Charge of our Philadelphia Office, 500 Widener Building, Philadelphia 7, Pennsylvania.

Sincerely yours,

John Edgar Hoover
Director

CC: Philadelphia,

[HANDWRITTEN: and]

Tolson
Ladd
Clegg
Glavin
Nichols
Rosen
Tracy
Harbo
Mohr
Tele. Room
Nease
Gandy

PAGE 53

other

This page is a blank document containing only FBI date stamps and indexing notations.

INDEXED - TS2
BECODED - TS2

RECEIVED-MAIL ROOM
FBI
U. S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
FEB 21 11 20 AM '50
[HANDWRITTEN: FEB 21 1950]

PAGE 54

memo

An FBI teletype from Denver reporting on an unidentified individual giving lectures at Denver University about flying saucers and small human-like occupants, noting that the individual is known to George Koehler, who is considered by OSI to be a probable mental case.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
COMMUNICATIONS SECTION
MAR - 9 1950
TELETYPE

[HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Tolson, Mr. Ladd, Mr. Clegg, Mr. Glov, Mr. Rosen, Mr. Tracy, Mr. Harbo, Mr. Belmont, Mr. Mohr, Tele. Room, Mr. Nease, Miss Gandy]

FBI, DENVER
3-9-50
9-25 PM
DIRECTOR, FBI
URGENT
[HANDWRITTEN: JHM Eum Mosburg]

FLYING SAUCERS. TWO SOURCES ADVISED TODAY THAT UNIDENTIFIED INDIVIDUAL HAS GIVEN AT LEAST ONE AND POSSIBLY MORE LECTURES BEFORE CLASSES AT DENVER UNIVERSITY YESTERDAY OR TODAY IN WHICH HE DISCUSSED FLYING SAUCERS WHICH HE ALLEGEDLY PERSONALLY OBSERVED. THIS PERSON CLAIMS TO HAVE SEEN SEVERAL SUCH OBJECTS, ONE OF WHICH ALLEGEDLY LANDED IN NEW MEXICO. HE ALSO CLAIMS TO HAVE OBSERVED OCCUPANTS OF SAUCERS DESCRIBED BY HIM AS OF HUMAN FORM, BUT ABOUT THREE FEET TALL. THESE OCCUPANTS OF SAUCERS ALLEGEDLY DEAD AT TIME HE OBSERVED THEM. THIS LECTURER REFUSED TO REVEAL IDENTITY, BUT IS KNOWN TO GEORGE KOEHLER, WHO IS CONNECTED WITH RADIO STATION KMYR, DENVER. KOEHLER REPORTED TO HAVE MADE SOME PREVIOUS CLAIMS HIMSELF WITH RESPECT TO OBSERVING FLYING SAUCERS. LOCAL PRESS AND ALSO WIRE SERVICES CARRYING STORIES CONCERNING THESE LECTURES AT DENVER UNIVERSITY. OSI, DENVER, HAS NO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION EXCEPT THAT GEORGE KOEHLER IN JANUARY THIS YEAR REPORTED TO HAVE MADE SIMILAR CLAIMS AND UPON INVESTIGATION WAS UNABLE TO PRODUCE ANY VERIFIABLE INFORMATION. OSI CONSIDERS KOEHLER AS PROBABLE MENTAL CASE. BUREAU ADVISE WHAT, IF ANY, ACTION DESIRED AT DENVER.

KRAMER
END
11-29 PM OK FBI WA HSU
V

RECORDED - 33
INDEXED - 33
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-206, cc Mr Belmont, 19, 5-Ehm, Jule called 2:30 PM 3/10/50]

PAGE 55

PAGE 56

memo

A routine FBI teletype from J. Edgar Hoover to the SAC in Denver regarding flying discs, stating that no further action is desired on the matter.

[HANDWRITTEN: RECORDED - 33]
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-82894-206]
MARCH 10, 1950 - ROUTINE
SAC DENVER
FLYING DISCS. REURTEL MARCH NINE LAST CAPTIONED FLYING SAUCERS AND RE BUREAU
BULLETIN NUMBER FIVE SEVEN DATED OCTOBER ONE, NINETEEN FORTYSEVEN IN CAPTIONED
MATTER. NO FURTHER ACTION DESIRED.
HOOVER
EHM:EWT
[HANDWRITTEN: EHM]
[HANDWRITTEN: AB]
[HANDWRITTEN: CH]
[HANDWRITTEN: SA]
Tolson
Ladd
Clegg
Glavin
Nichols
Rosen
Tracy
Harbo
Mohr
Tele. Room
Nease
Gandy
58 MAR 29 1950 COPIES DESTROYED
270 NOV 18 1964

PAGE 57

memo

A military communication regarding radar sightings of unidentified objects near Knoxville, Tennessee, on March 1 and 2, 1950, and the subsequent investigation by the Third Army and AEC Security Division.

CLASSIFIED
INCOMING
MESSAGE
[HANDWRITTEN: Recd from IDA 3-6-50 CWBijo]
[HANDWRITTEN: mem]
CONFIDENTIAL
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE
[HANDWRITTEN: add, FBI, OSI, AF]
[HANDWRITTEN: Harbip-PA]
[HANDWRITTEN: In conf by most]
[HANDWRITTEN: Disly]
PRIORITY
PARAPHRASE NOT REQUIRED
From: COMGENARMYTHREE Ft McPherson Ga
To: Dept of Army for Dir of Intelligence
Nr: AJACI 1-2
2 Mar 50
Telephone call received from Lt Col Nunamaker
Tennessee Military District 1130, 2 March. He stated that
A. There is a radar station near Knoxville which has
been in operation about 3 weeks. This radar station is being
operated by station WROL of Knoxville.
B. On 1 March at 2135 hours the station picked up
an object 340 degrees and 18 miles from Knoxville altitude
40,000 feet. Direction and distance put the object directly
over Oak Ridge. AEC Security Division Chief at Oak Ridge
checked with Smyrna Air Base Nashville which reported it had
no flight plan for any plane being in that vicinity and
altitude.
C. On 2 March at 1105 station picked up object at
335 degrees and 18 miles from Knoxville altitude 40,000
feet. AEC Security Div Chief checked with Smyrna Air Base
with negative results.
D. AEC Sec Div Chief is not certain as to operational
efficiency of radar unit and requested Smyrna AB to send
qualified radar operator. Smyrna has no personnel so
qualified. Smyrna commander suggested Third Army send
qualified radar operator to check equipment.
E. Data from radar was limited to:
1. Bearing, distance and altitude on each object.
2. Third Army queried 14th Air Force to determine
if 14th AF had training flights over the Knoxville area on
1 and 2 March. Answer was no.
CM IN 12036
(3Mar 50)
[HANDWRITTEN: Flying discs]
[HANDWRITTEN: ACTION COPY OP'S RM]
[HANDWRITTEN: ACTION COPY OP'S RM]
[HANDWRITTEN: ACTION COPY OP'S RM]
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-207]
[HANDWRITTEN: MAR 15 1950]
[HANDWRITTEN: D. JOURNAL NO. 75 MAR 3 50]
[HANDWRITTEN: 9]
[HANDWRITTEN: 22-3 MAR 23 1950]
CONFIDENTIAL

PAGE 58

memo

This is a page from a Department of the Army incoming message regarding the lack of radar operators in the Third Army and a request from the Chief Security Division at Oak Ridge for qualified personnel to evaluate radar performance.

CLASSIFIED INCOMING MESSAGE

CONFIDENTIAL

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE

Nr: AJACI 1-2 Page 2

3. Third Army has no radar operators.

4. Inquiry of Lt Col Nunamaker revealed that Chief Security Div Oak Ridge is anxious to get qualified personnel check on the performance of the radar.

ACTION: G-2

CM IN 12036 (3 Mar 50) DTG: 022030Z mlf/c

DA SCO FORM 22-3 15 JAN 1949 CONFIDENTIAL COPY NO.

PAGE 59

letter

A letter from a resident in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to J. Edgar Hoover describing personal observations of unidentified aerial phenomena, including a recurring noise heard over an apartment building and a sighting of a round, cloud-like object that disintegrated.

Tulsa Okla,
Feb. 28, 1950

Mr. J. Edgar Hoover
director of F.B.I.
Washington D.C.
Dear Mr Hoover :- [HANDWRITTEN: Flying Saucers]
Your acknowledgement of my letter in regard to your excellent & faithful service, recd Feb. 22 here
I've had something on my chest for seven years, and it may be the time and way to do something about it, now also. It was during a time of my seven years of Civil Service work here in Tulsa, while doing Engr. drafting for the Corps of Engineers, war Department. At this time I began to give the matter serious thought.
For a number of intermittent nights at about the same time, I would hear a terrific very quick noise over the four unit apartment Bldg. at 44 East 17th St. where I had a small 3 roomed apartment on the top floor. The noise only lasted a second or less. and always traveled north to south. It was at great speed this missel or whatever over head. that I could never get to the window to look into the night sky. I reported it to the F.B.I. here (local F.B.I.) & checked all the airports. no one knew of any craft having been there at that time. I clocked it after hearing it 4 or 5 times, and as near as I can remember now it was about 11:21 P.M. then the time I again reported to the F.B.I. I had long before found it was not street nor building noise. The second time I called the F.B.I. the party at the other end, said wait a moment,- soon he said, a Lt. of the force had been telling him of hearing the same thing a few blocks south of me at the 21st bridge while out there on patrol duty!
Then a few week after those noises over head, came first word of people, seeing "flying saucers"
Since living here at 10 39 N. College, late last fall a flying saucer must have been what I saw that looked like a very round white cloud against a grey stormy sky (or even grey over cast sky.) It also rapidly drifted north to south and while I wondered & looked at the (cloud?) sphere I saw it disintegrate and something that looked like envelopes or paper fell toward the earth but the round objects pieces seemed to melt into the grey sky.

PAGE 60

other

This page is a blank document containing only various FBI date stamps indicating receipt of the document in March 1950.

RECEIVED
RECORDS SEC.
MAR 2 3 29 PM '50

MR JONES

RECEIVED
F B I
MAR 2 4 23 PM '50
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED
MAR 27 9 34 AM '50
INTERNAL SECURITY SN
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE

PAGE 61

letter

A handwritten letter addressed to Mr. Hoover theorizing that 'flying saucers' are Russian-controlled, radar-guided aircraft used for surveillance and weather manipulation.

2
It was all [REDACTED] plain & clear for [REDACTED] object was in the
eastern sky & the sun just came from behind a cloud
in the west at about sun down & shown upon it. I rushed
to my east door to try to distinguish a plane motor or some
sound of motor or a possible crash maybe a few blocks
away. But I heard nothing so I again explained & report
to the F. B. I. I could not judge the distance of the object.
Now my own radio has not been working for about
2 weeks, so that I've not recently caught all the news. But a
friend of mine tells me that according to radio news, the
saucers are again appearing and are now disintegrating.
Now Mr. Hoover if this matter that I shall mention
here is by chance out of your jurisdiction, then I pray that
you either mail this to some one (the right one) or put it into
the hands (directly) to some responsible Gov. Official whom you
are sure will give the matter serious study and consideration.
When the two tornados hit Woodward Okla several
years ago within a few days or a few weeks of each other. From
that time on I have theorized that these "flying saucers" are
being sent from a Russian base located somewhere near
the eastern edge of Siberia, Korea or Mongolia, but more
likely some place in Siberia, and are radar controlled. That
the first ones of about the year of the tornados came back to the
base there, and that they served a tri-purpose.
No. 1. That the first ones contained instruments to
photograph & simultaneously record distance altitude & temperature.
Thus with data returning via the "saucers" the Russians
may by this means have every foot of our U.S.A photographed
and our vital areas spotted. No doubt the "saucers" are
built round and like this view from the side would have
only one edge [DRAWING] and spin like a top thru the air
with slots around the saucer [DRAWING] where I have placed
the dots. Could be made to open automaticly and scatter
germs, chemicals ice & etc.
No 2. That they may be able to effect our weather current
that have caused our heavy storms and unusual sudden

PAGE 62

letter

A handwritten letter speculating on the capabilities of 'saucers' and suggesting that recent flu outbreaks are a precursor to a Russian invasion, referencing a dream the author had after World War I.

3
Changes in temperatures in [REDACTED] areas over the U.S.
They may be able from their data formally obtained to
send a saucer anywhere at most any time with most
anything, depending on the setting of the automatic device
within the saucer & the altitude & distance on their controls at
their base & the substance placed within.
Nothing now is impossible!
No. 3. The sudden weather changes all this last fall
and this winter especially have caused a "flu" & a chest
condition that lasts much longer and weakens those parts
much more than ever the old fashioned "flu" did, so I've
been told by the doctor to whom I go.
Hence it has put the vast majority of people in
a weakened condition, receptive of attack of a greater physical
illness, something that may even be breathed from the
air, & may put us into a helpless, weak or sleeping condition
that will give Russia a chance to walk in and take this
country intact, without ever bombing & spoiling our
rich oil and industrial supplies! (Russia has never yet
gotten the oil she started out for.) If done in this manner
we would wake up or come to and find ourselves possibly her
slaves!
It's something to think about, and as I see it a
very great possibility! so I'm praying that you place this
matter with those or one you are certain will give it a
very serious thot. If my theory is a true case, then if
we could locate that base, we could save a great deal
of trouble to our nation. The above mentioned matter ties
in with what I wrote before World War II to General Chief of Staff
Marshall, President F.D.R. and Martin Dyes, about a
seemingly fantastic dream I had three years or about that
after the first world war. In that dream which I had 3
nights alike to the smallest detail and in succession. In
that dream the Russians, Germans, and a slant eyed people
came in the S. West & marched & swarmed over our country
to the North East, and in the dream we stood like stone

PAGE 63

letter

A personal letter from Mrs. Florence B. Perrier to an unknown recipient, discussing a dream about her grandfather, speculating on the purpose of UFOs ('saucers'), and mentioning her past anonymous correspondence regarding a dream about war with Germany.

4
Images stunned with surprise! In the dream it seemed that I was a child again watching grandfather at his work bench, and tho' at the time of that strange dream Grandfather was then deceased, but as I seemed to be standing beside him in the dream, he looked down at me and said "Florence whatever I dream always comes true". Actually I had never, while he lived with us in all those years ever heard him claim he had dreamed; so my only interpretation of the dream & what he said in it would mean that what "I dreamed" etc. When he was young he was ordered to "goose-step" into Prussia in the Franco-Prussian War, and he often told me in German how he hated war, & I know how much he loved the beautiful & how really kind he was. He loved garden, flowers & did beautiful cabinet work.
Doesn't it stand to reason that there is a very definite purpose in the disintrigation of the "saucers" now?
That we have advertised the fact that we think they are "interplaneterry", and the country sending them are not affraid that we may find out different? That also there may be chemicals or desease germs within them that if they returned to the original base might accidently be scattered within their own boundaries and dangerous to their own welfare?!
And besides after all we have found out that mars is not inhabited! I might add now that I did not sign my name to the letters I wrote about that dream to the three Washington gentlemen, I was afraid to for we were so close to war with Germany then. I mailed them from Tulsa, so you might have heard of the letters this happening at that time. We know that dream of 3 nights did not then come true. But there is still time that something very similar may yet happen!
Enclosed is postage for mailing this to the party you know will consider it from a serious, possibility angle. Also a rough sketch that I've made, my idea of Russia's method. I would appreciate hearing your opinion on the above scientific possibility mentioned. I know nothing of science actually. I am Sincerely yours.
[HANDWRITTEN: wish I did.]
Mrs Florence B. Perrier
[HANDWRITTEN: I hope something will be done 1039 N. College. time.]

PAGE 64

diagram

A hand-drawn map by Florence Pervier illustrating a speculative 'saucer base' in Siberia and a potential flight path through Alaskan weather currents toward the U.S.A.

SIBERIA
"SAUCER" BASE
ALASKA
Possible Route of "Saucers"
CANADA
The "saucer" base may be further south or in such a location as to allow them in their course to pass thru' the Alaskan weather currents, some where in their course between Alaska and U.S.A.
All:- Heavier is storm area
So on & all over U.S.A.
by: Florence Pervier Tulsa, Okla.

PAGE 65

other

This page is a blank sheet containing only a handwritten file reference number and an 'ENCLOSURE' stamp.

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-208] ENCLOSURE

PAGE 66

letter

A letter from J. Edgar Hoover to Mrs. Florence B. Pervier acknowledging her letter regarding her observations of flying saucers, which she believes are of Russian origin.

[HANDWRITTEN: mem] [HANDWRITTEN: 55]

March 7, 1950

Mrs. Florence B. Pervier
1039 North College
Tulsa, Oklahoma

Dear Mrs. Pervier:
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-208]
Your letter of February 28, 1950, has been
received and I want to thank you for making your ob-
servation available to me. Your thoughtfulness in
this connection is appreciated.

Sincerely yours,
J. Edgar Hoover

John Edgar Hoover
Director

NOTE: Correspondent lengthly relates her observation
concerning flying saucers and advised that she believes
they are of Russia origin. It is noted that in her
letter of February 14, she wrote to commend Mr. Hoover
for his services as Director of the FBI.

NJC:ai

[HANDWRITTEN: Tolson Ladd Clegg Glavin Nichols Rosen Tracy Harbo Mohr Tele. Room Nease Gandy] [HANDWRITTEN: 73] [HANDWRITTEN: 50 APR 3 1950] [HANDWRITTEN: MAD 6] [HANDWRITTEN: m]

PAGE 67

memo

A brief note stating that the FBI does not have jurisdiction to investigate reports of flying saucers.

NOTE: Correspondence largely relates to observation of flying saucers and requests that the Bureau investigate. It is noted that the Bureau has no jurisdiction to investigate these matters.

RECEIVED-MAIL ROOM
FBI
U.S. DEPT OF JUSTICE
MAR 8 11 38 AM '51

PAGE 68

memo

This FBI memorandum from Guy Hottel reports information provided by Karl Howe regarding the alleged recovery of three flying saucers and alien bodies in New Mexico, suggesting that high-powered government radar may have interfered with the craft's control mechanisms.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : DIRECTOR, FBI
FROM : GUY HOTTEL, SAC, WASHINGTON
SUBJECT: FLYING SAUCERS
INFORMATION CONCERNING
[HANDWRITTEN: Flying Discs or Flying Saucers]
The following information was furnished to SA R. H. KURTZMAN by KARL HOWE, Special Investigator, Sex Squad, Metropolitan Police Department:

An investigator for the Air Forces stated that three so-called flying saucers had been recovered in New Mexico. They were described as being circular in shape with raised centers, approximately 50 feet in diameter. Each one was occupied by three bodies of human shape but only 3 feet tall, dressed in metallic cloth of a very fine texture. Each body was bandaged in a manner similar to the blackout suits used by speed flyers and test pilots.

According to Mr. HOWE'S informant, the saucers were found in New Mexico due to the fact that the Government has a very high-powered radar set-up in that area and it is believed the radar interferes with the controling mechanism of the saucers.

No further evaluation was attempted by SA KURTZMAN concerning the above.

RHK:VIM
[HANDWRITTEN: RECORDED - 3]
[HANDWRITTEN: INDEXED - 3]
[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-209]
[HANDWRITTEN: MAR 23 1950]
[HANDWRITTEN: 84]
[HANDWRITTEN: 5 1 MAR 29 1950]

PAGE 69

memo

A memorandum regarding the discovery of an invisible ink and a saucer-like object in New Mexico, mentioning the FBI and the Truman administration.

Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

TO: DIRECTOR, FBI
FROM: SAC, WASHINGTON
SUBJECT: [REDACTED]

[REDACTED]

The following information was submitted to the FBI by [REDACTED], [REDACTED] Police Department:

An invisible ink for the above was discovered in New York. The [REDACTED] described as being in a liquid state, one was occupied by these bodies, meter 30 feet in diameter. Just 3 feet in diameter in the middle of the [REDACTED] body and detached in a manner very similar to the [REDACTED] used by speed flyers and test pilots.

According to the [REDACTED] information, the [REDACTED] in New Mexico due to the [REDACTED] of the government and it is believed that it is [REDACTED] with the controlling mechanism of the saucers.

No further evaluation was attempted by AS TRUMAN concerning the above.

PAGE 70

memo

A military incoming message reporting radar sightings of unidentified objects near Knoxville, Tennessee, and coordination with the CIA and FBI to investigate.

CLASSIFIED INCOMING MESSAGE
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE
[HANDWRITTEN: Surr for FBI]
[HANDWRITTEN: Rec'd from IDA 3-6-50 CWBcjs]
PARAPHRASE NOT REQUIRED
PRIORITY
From: COMGENARMYTHREE Ft McPherson Ga
To : Dept of Army for Dir of Intelligence
Nr : AJACI-3-3 3206 3 Mar 50
Reference our TWX AJACI-1-2, 2nd Mar supplementary report follows:
1. (A) At 2130 hours on 2nd Mar radar station picked up 2 objects 310 degrees, altitude 80000 feet, approximately 18 miles from Knoxville in general direction of Oak Ridge, moving in circular motion but in opposite directions.
(B) At 2230 hours 2nd Mar and again at 0030 hours 3rd Mar station picked up object, moving same direction, locality and altitude.
(C) Density of object similar to DC-3 airplane, speed not established but report as "terrific".
2. CIA Radar Technician reportedly arrives Knoxville today to check radar set and operation.
3. Arrangement reportedly made by FBI with Naval and Marine Reserve Unit Knoxville to set up radar equipment to verify reception of WROL radar station.
4. All information on this subject this headquarters has been turned over to A-2 Fourteenth Air Force.
Note: AJACI-1-2 is CM IN 12036 (3 Mar 50) G-2
ACTION: G-2
INFO : G-3
CM IN 12184 (4 Mar 50) DTG: 031900Z ear/B
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-210]
[HANDWRITTEN: 5 MAR 1950]
[HANDWRITTEN: 72 Mar 4, 1950]
[HANDWRITTEN: ID-1]
[HANDWRITTEN: 101]
CONFIDENTIAL

PAGE 71

memo

This document is page 2 of a classified incoming message regarding the lack of radar operators in the Third Army and a request from the Chief Security Division at Oak Ridge for qualified personnel to evaluate radar performance.

CLASSIFIED INCOMING MESSAGE

CONFIDENTIAL
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE

Nr: AJACI 1-2
Page 2

3. Third Army has no radar operators.
4. Inquiry of Lt Col Nunamaker revealed that Chief Security Div Oak Ridge is anxious to get qualified personnel check on the performance of the radar.

ACTION: G-2

CM IN 12036 (3 Mar 50) DTG: 022030Z mlf/c

CO FORM AN 1949 22-3
CONFIDENTIAL
COPY NO.
U. S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE : 1949-O-830430

PAGE 72

memo

A military communication reporting radar sightings of unidentified objects near Knoxville and Oak Ridge, Tennessee, on March 1 and 2, 1950.

CLASSIFIED INCOMING MESSAGE
[HANDWRITTEN: Recd from IDA 3-8-50 CWBjo]
CONFIDENTIAL
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE
PARAPHRASE NOT REQUIRED
PRIORITY
From: COMGENARMYTHREE Ft McPherson Ga
To: Dept of Army for Dir of Intelligence
Nr: AJACI 1-2 2 Mar 50
Telephone call received from Lt Col Nunamaker
Tennessee Military District 1130, 2 March. He stated that
A. There is a radar station near Knoxville which has
been in operation about 3 weeks. This radar station is being
operated by station WROL of Knoxville. [HANDWRITTEN: radar]
B. On 1 March at 2135 hours the station picked up
an object 340 degrees and 18 miles from Knoxville altitude
40,000 feet. Direction and distance put the object directly
over Oak Ridge. AEC Security Division Chief at Oak Ridge
checked with Smyrna Air Base Nashville which reported it had
no flight plan for any plane being in that vicinity and
altitude.
C. On 2 March at 1105 station picked up object at
335 degrees and 18 miles from Knoxville altitude 40,000
feet. AEC Security Div Chief checked with Smyrna Air Base
with negative results.
D. AEC Sec Div Chief is not certain as to operational
efficiency of radar unit and requested Smyrna AB to send
qualified radar operator. Smyrna has no personnel so
qualified. Smyrna commander suggested Third Army send
qualified radar operator to check equipment.
E. Data from radar was limited to:
1. Bearing, distance and altitude on each object.
2. Third Army queried 14th Air Force to determine
if 14th AF had training flights over the Knoxville area on
1 and 2 March. Answer was no.
CM IN 12036 (3Mar 50)
[HANDWRITTEN: Flying Saucer]
[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-211]
[HANDWRITTEN: INDEXED-19 RECORDED-19 MAR 22 1950]
[HANDWRITTEN: EX-136]
[HANDWRITTEN: D. JOURNAL NO. 75 MAR 3 50]
[HANDWRITTEN: 52 APR 10 1950]
CONFIDENTIAL

PAGE 73

form

An FBI routing slip with a handwritten inquiry asking for a memo regarding the facts and Air Force opinions on flying saucers.

FROM DO-7
OFFICE OF DIRECTOR, FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
TO
OFFICIAL INDICATED BELOW BY CHECK MARK

Mr. Tolson ()
Mr. Clegg ()
Mr. Glavin ()
Mr. Ladd ()
Mr. Nichols ()
Mr. Rosen ()
Mr. Tracy ()
Mr. Gurnea ()
Mr. Harbo ()
Mr. Mohr ()
Mr. Nease ()
Miss Gandy ()

[HANDWRITTEN: Just what are the facts re flying saucers? A short memo as to whether it is true or just what Air Force etc think of them.]

See Me ()
Note and Return ()
For Your Recommendation ()
What are the facts? ()
Remarks:

ENCLOSURE
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-212]

PAGE 74

form

This is an FBI routing slip or internal document tracking receipt of correspondence by various FBI officials, including Mr. Ladd and Mr. Nichols, in March and April 1950.

OFFICE OF DIRECTOR FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
OFFICER INDICATED BELOW BY CHECK MARK

Mr. Tolson
Mr. Ladd
Mr. Glavin
Mr. Ladd
Mr. Nichols
Mr. Rosen
Mr. Tracy
Mr. Gurnea
Mr. Harbo
Mr. Mohr
Mr. Case
Miss

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
APR 3 5 43 PM '50

RECEIVED
MAR 27 11 58 AM '50
REC'D ESPIONAGE
F B I
U.S. DEP. OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
MAR 27 10 59 AM '50

RECEIVED-NICHOLS
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE
APR 4 5 59 PM '50

PAGE 75

memo

An FBI memorandum from D. M. Ladd to the Director regarding the Air Force's stance on 'flying saucers,' noting that the Air Force discontinued its investigation after concluding most sightings were misidentifications of conventional objects.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : The Director DATE: March 28, 1950
FROM : D. M. Ladd
SUBJECT: FLYING SAUCERS

Reference is made to your inquiry on the attached routing slip:
"Just what are the facts re 'flying saucers'? A short memo as to whether it is true or just what Air Force etc. think of them."

In response to your inquiry, Special Agent S. W. Reynolds obtained the following information today (3/28/50) from Major Boggs and Lieutenant Colonel J. V. Hearn of Air Force Intelligence. The Air Force discontinued their intelligence project, to determine what flying saucers are the latter part of last year. They publicly announced to the press in December, 1949, that the project had been discontinued. They advised that the press release had been concurred in by the Army and Navy. The reason for the discontinuance, according to Major Boggs and Lieutenant Colonel Hearn, was that after two years of investigation over three-fourths of the incidents regarding flying saucers proved to be misidentifications of a wide variety of conventional items such as lighted weather balloons and other air-borne objects.

Colonel Hearn pointed out that the Commanders of the various areas are charged with the security of those areas. Reports concerning flying saucers received at this time will be investigated by the Area Commander and his report submitted to the Air Force Intelligence Division as an intelligence item.

Major Boggs and Lieutenant Colonel Hearn made the observation that many of the reported sightings of flying saucers at this time appear to be an outgrowth of recent magazine articles. They reiterated that the Air Force is conducting no active investigation to determine whether flying saucers exist or what they might happen to be.

You will recall that the investigation of flying saucers was discontinued by the Bureau in October, 1947, in order that the Air Force could take over such investigations. (62-83894-141-160)

[HANDWRITTEN: Ser. Routing slip ENCA]
Attachment
EHM:jam,sd
[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-212]
[HANDWRITTEN: MAR 30 1950]
[HANDWRITTEN: 57 APR 5 1950]
COPIES DESTROYED
270 NOV 18 1964

PAGE 76

other

This page contains a series of FBI date-received stamps from March 28 and March 29, 1950, indicating the document was routed to various officials including Nichols, Tolson, the Director, Ladd, and Belmont.

RECEIVED-NICHOLS
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE
MAR 29 2 24 PM '50

RECEIVED-TOLSON
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE
MAR 29 11 01 AM '50

RECEIVED-DIRECTOR
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE
MAR 28 4 23 PM '50

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE
MAR 28 3 33 PM '50

REC'D BELMONT
F. B. I.
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
MAR 28 3 46 PM '50

PAGE 77

memo

An FBI memorandum detailing reports from George T. Koehler to Jefferson B. Armstrong regarding Silas Newton's claims of discovering a crashed flying disc with human-like occupants in the Mojave Desert.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : DIRECTOR, FBI DATE: March 31, 1950
FROM : SAC, NEW ORLEANS
SUBJECT: FLYING DISCS

Special Agent H. WARREN TOOL, JR., of the New Orleans Division, has a brother, J. K. TOOL, of the Wayne Welch, Inc., advertising agency, 202 Keith Building, 1025 14th St., Denver, Colorado. J. K. TOOL has advised Special Agent TOOL that an employee of the Wayne Welch, Inc., JEFFERSON B. ARMSTRONG, has been contacted by one GEORGE T. KOEHLER, 315 Franklin Street, telephone SPruce 2563, Denver, Colorado, regarding Flying Discs.

KOEHLER is alleged to have told ARMSTRONG in January, 1950, that he (KOEHLER), knows a prominent Denver oilman named SILAS NEWTON, also known as a "Mysterious Mr. X", and an official of the Newton Oil Co., Equitable Building, Denver, Colorado. NEWTON is claiming that he leased land in the Mojave Desert in California and that on this land a flying disc had been found intact, with eighteen three-foot tall human-like occupants, all dead on it but not burned. Further, that the disc was alleged to be of very hard metal and near indestructible. KOEHLER is said to have exhibited a radio set to ARMSTRONG purported to be a souvenir of the space disc.

According to ARMSTRONG, KOEHLER has been telling of this story off and on for the three month period prior to January, 1950, and is said to have notified ARMSTRONG of it weeks prior to the publication of a flying disc article published in the True Magazine, and one by FRANK SCULLY published in the Variety Magazine in January, 1950. KOEHLER claimed to have been visited by DONALD KEHOE, author of the article in the True Magazine.

Further data was furnished that KOEHLER had been telling the tale so prolifically in Denver that he claimed to have had telephone calls from Washington, D. C. and from the Federal Bureau of Investigation in which he was requested to keep the information to himself and that, thereafter, he became mysterious about the entire matter.

It is noted that considerable publicity regarding these discs has been found in Denver and other papers.

This information is being furnished the Bureau and the designated offices for informational purposes.

[HANDWRITTEN: 4/12/50 OS/adw ley E.H.M. Sanders who adv, they checked this out negatively] [HANDWRITTEN: Rec'd 4/6/50 EHM] HWT:mrg 66-1199
cc: Denver
Los Angeles
[HANDWRITTEN: [ILLEGIBLE] 4/20/50] RECORDED - 28 162-83894-213
INDEXED - 28 34
APR 3 1950
EX-94
COPIES DESTROYED
270 NOV 18 1964

PAGE 78

memo

An FBI teletype reporting that a University of New Mexico student, Jim Barden, created a trick photograph of a crashed flying saucer and intended to publish it in the school newspaper.

[HANDWRITTEN: ig] [HANDWRITTEN: 1/9] FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNICATIONS SECTION MAR 30 1950 TELETYPE FBI ALBUQUERQUE 3-30-50 7-55 PM MST [REDACTED] DIRECTOR, FBI U R G E N T FLYING SAUCERS, INFO CONCERNING. JIM BARDEN, STUDENT, UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO AND REPORTER FOR SCHOOL PAPER FURNISHED THIS OFFICE WITH TRICK PHOTOGRAPH OF MOUNTIAN SIDE SHOWING A FLYINGSAUCER CRASHED AND BURDING ON THE SIDE OF THE MOUNTIAN, LITTLE MEN WALKIN AWAY AND FOUR FLYING SAUCERS HOVERING AROUND THE CRASHED ONE, BARDEN, WHO HAS VOLUNTARILY FURNISHED INFORMATION TO THIS OFFICE PREVIOUSLY STATED HE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MAKING THE TRICK PHOTOGRAPH. HE FIRST TOOK A PHOTOGRAPH OF A HILLSIDE NEAR ALBUQUERQUE, HAD THE FLYING SAUCERS, CRASHED SAUCER, SMOKE AND LITTLE MEN DRAWN IN AND THEN MADE THE FINAL PHOTOGRAPH. BORDEN STATED THIS PHOTOGRAPH AND A RIDICULOUS STORY WILL BE PRINTED IN THE UNIV. OF N.M. SCHOOL PAPER THIRTY FIRST INSTANT AND MAY BE CARRIED OVER ASSOCIATED PRESS LINES. BORDEN WAS ADVISED THAT THIS OFFICE GAVE NO SANCTION OR CLEARANCE TO HIS IDEA. THIS FOR BUREAU-S INFORMATION. LOCAL INTELLIGENCE REPRESENTATIVES ADVISED. [HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-514] [HANDWRITTEN: 5-E] RECORDED - 112 INDEXED - 112 52 APR 10 1950 CORRECTION FIRST WORD FOURTH LINE BURNING END AND ACK PLS. [HANDWRITTEN: 10-03 PM OK FBI WANS]

PAGE 79

other

This page is a collection of FBI teletype unit receipt stamps indicating the routing and processing of a document between March 30 and April 3, 1950.

RECEIVED TELETYPE UNIT
MAR 30 10 08 PM '50
F.B.I. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

MAR 31 6 48 PM '50
REC'D BELMONT
F. B. I.
DEPT. OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
MAR 31 5 04 PM '50

RECEIVED-NICHOLS
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
APR 3 02 '50

RECEIVED-DIRECTOR
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
MAR 31 6 15 AM '50

RECEIVED
APR 3 3 51 PM '50
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
REC'D-IVESON

PAGE 80

memo

An FBI memorandum detailing reports from a radio operator, Stuart E. Adcock, regarding an unidentified object detected on radar over Oak Ridge, Tennessee, on March 1 and 2, 1950.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
OFFICE MEMORANDUM • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : MR. D. M. LADD [HANDWRITTEN: signature]
DATE: March 3, 1950
FROM : MR. A. H. BELMONT [HANDWRITTEN: initials]
SUBJECT: UNKNOWN OBJECT OVER OAK RIDGE, TENNESSEE, MARCH 1, 1950;
STUART ADCOCK, COMPLAINANT; VITAL FACILITIES; INTERNAL SECURITY

At 9:55 A.M. today, SAC Robey of Knoxville advised that Stuart E. Adcock, owner and operator of Radio Station WROL, Knoxville, had called the Knoxville Office at 11:15 P.M. on March 1. Adcock is a radio ham operator and has set up in his home in Knoxville an Army Surplus APN-7 radar set. Adcock advised that he had picked up on this set a "pip" indicating that an object was circling at an altitude of about 40,000 feet over Oak Ridge. Adcock stated that he customarily had followed the movement of airplanes through this set and he was sure this item was not a thunder cloud. Mr. Robey advised that the Knoxville Office had immediately notifed the AEC Security Section following the receipt of the call from Mr. Adcock.

At 5:30 P.M. on March 2, Mr. Adcock again called to say that he had again picked up an object at 11:15 A.M. on March 2 about 100,000 feet up and about 18 miles from his home in Knoxville which would place the object over Oak Ridge. Mr. Robey advised that CIC Agents had been given the information coming from the Knoxville Office, as a result of which CIC Agents and OSI representatives went out last night and looked over Mr. Adcock's set. They did see an object on the screen about 11:00 or 12:00 P.M. last night. They reported this information to the Third Army. Mr. Robey was of the opinion that the Air Force probably has sent the information to Washington also. Army CIC has now informed that CIA is going to send a technician down from Washington to examine the set. Mr. Robey had no information as to how CIA had jurisdiction. Mr. Robey advised that the Army is also contemplating sending a man up from Atlanta with a portable radar set to check into this situation. In addition, the Naval Reserve has a set locally and is putting it into operation this morning in an effort to identify this object.

Mr. Robey advised that AEC and the Armed Forces' representatives are somewhat concerned about this matter and he wanted the Bureau to have the above information in case there were inquiries.

ACTION

I advised Mr. Robey to keep in touch with the situation and let us know immediately of any developments and as to any information picked up by the Armed Forces or the CIA representative. I also requested that he ascertain who the CIA representative is and what action he took upon his arrival. Mr. Robey was advised that no investigation should be conducted by the Knoxville Office but that he should be kept advised of developments and should send a teletype to the Bureau tonight.

AHB:mer [HANDWRITTEN: Memo Redacted 3-16-50 AHP]

PAGE 81

PAGE 82

memo

An FBI internal memorandum regarding an investigation into an unknown object sighting over Oak Ridge, Tennessee, involving complainant Stuart Adcock and coordination with CIC, OSI, and CIA.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : MR. LADD [HANDWRITTEN: Q] [HANDWRITTEN: el]
FROM : A. H. BELMONT
DATE: March 6, 1950
SUBJECT: UNKNOWN OBJECT OVER OAK RIDGE, TENNESSEE, MARCH 1, 1950; [HANDWRITTEN: X] STUART ADCOCK, COMPLAINANT; VITAL FACILITIES; INTERNAL SECURITY

[HANDWRITTEN: men] [HANDWRITTEN: NR]
Reference is made to my memorandum of March 3, 1950, reflecting a call from SAC Robey, of Knoxville, in the above-entitled matter.

On the morning of March 6, 1950, I called SAC Robey to ascertain what he had found out concerning this matter. He advised that a teletype had been sent reflecting that there was some question of Adcock's reliability and knowledge on radar theory; that CIC and OSI are continuing their interest in the matter; and that the CIA technician from Washington had not arrived.

SAC Robey will report any further developments.

[HANDWRITTEN: flying Discs] AHB:tlc
[HANDWRITTEN: INDEXED] [HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-216] [HANDWRITTEN: 11996-]
[HANDWRITTEN: SE 1] [HANDWRITTEN: MAR 7 1950]
[HANDWRITTEN: 09 - RECORDED]
EX-93
[HANDWRITTEN: 157] 5 8 MAR 16 1950 [HANDWRITTEN: Discs]

PAGE 83

other

This page contains two FBI date-received stamps from March 1950 and a handwritten date notation.

RECEIVED
MAR 13 3 26 PM '50
INTERNAL SECURITY SN.
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE

[HANDWRITTEN: 3/18/50]

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE
MAR 7 9 33 AM '50

PAGE 84

memo

This FBI teletype memo from the Knoxville office reports on a claim by Stuart Adcock regarding an unidentified object detected by radar over Oak Ridge, Tennessee, noting that the report was not verified and the complainant's reliability was questioned.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNICATIONS SECTION MAR - 6 1950 TELETYPE [HANDWRITTEN: 12-03 PM] FBI KNOXVILLE 3-6-50 ATT. SMR. A. H. BELMONT URGENT [HANDWRITTEN: monthly] UNKNOWN OBJECT OVER OAK RIDGE, TENN., MARCH ONE, NINETEEN FIFTY, STUART ADCOCK, COMPLAINANT, VITAL FACILITIES, IS. REMYCALL MARCH THIRD. EXISTENCE OF OBJECT REPORTED BY ADCOCK AS BEING DIRECTLY OVER OAK RIDGE AT ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND FEET ALTITUDE NOT VERIFIED. ADCOCK REPUTEDLY CAPABLE RADIO TECHNICIAN. ADCOCK CLAIMS TO HAVE DETECTED OBJECT WITH HIS RADAR EQUIPMENT ON FIVE OCCASIONS OVER THREE DAYS. NAVAL RESERVE RADAR EQUIPMENT AT KNOXVILLE DID NOT DETECT OBJECT ON ANY OCCASION, BUT TECHNICIANS STATE IT IS NOT CONSIDERED EFFICIENT FOR AIRCRAFT AT EXTREME ALTITUDES. QUALIFIED PERSONS FROM USAF AT NEPA, OAK RIDGE, TALKED WITH ADCOCK AND EXAMINED HIS RADAR EQUIPMENT. FOUND HIS EQUIPMENT NOT TOO RELIABLE AND FELT ADCOCK TECHNICALLY WRONG ON SOME RADAR THEORY. RELIABILITY OF ADCOCK QUESTIONED DUE TO SOME DEGREE OF INEBRIATION. THESE PERSONS DISCOUNT PROBABILITY. CIC AND OSI CONTINUE INTEREST BUT DO NOT CONTEMPLATE FURTHER ACTION. AEC TOOK STEPS TO HAVE RADAR TECHNICIAN SENT FROM WASH., BELIEVED FROM CIA, BUT NOT YET ARRIVED. ANY FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS WILL BE REPORTED TO BUREAU. [HANDWRITTEN: See index of Flying Discs] [HANDWRITTEN: Bates advised he will ck with Roland] [HANDWRITTEN: Letter to AEC 3-14-50 cc: OSS, Memo to Crim Div] END [HANDWRITTEN: COPIES DESTROYED 270 NOV 18 1964] 12-06 PM OK FBI WASH DC ED

PAGE 85

other

This page consists of a collection of date-stamped receipt markings from various FBI offices and personnel, indicating the document was processed on March 6 and 7, 1950.

RECEIVED - FLETCHER
MAR 6 7 32 PM '50

REC'D-CH. CLK.
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
F B I
MAR 6 4 15 PM '50

RECEIVED-NICHOLS
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
MAR 6 4 27 PM '50

RECEIVED-TOLSON
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
MAR 6 1 37 PM '50

RECEIVED - DIRECTOR
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
F B I
MAR 6 2 07 PM '50

RECEIVED
MAR 7 8 59 AM '50
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
F B I

[HANDWRITTEN: 2-2-50]
[HANDWRITTEN: 15-02]

PAGE 86

memo

An FBI memo from J. Edgar Hoover to the Atomic Energy Commission regarding radar detections of an unknown object over Oak Ridge, Tennessee, by Stuart E. Adcock, noting that the reports were considered unreliable due to equipment limitations and Adcock's potential inebriation.

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-217] [HANDWRITTEN: 11/16-2] [HANDWRITTEN: Declassified 2040 8/31/77 HM]
Date: March 14, 1950
To: Atomic Energy Commission
Building T-3
16th and Constitution Avenue, N. W.
Washington, D. C.
Attention: Mr. Francis R. Hammack
Acting Director
Division of Security
From: John Edgar Hoover, Director - Federal Bureau of Investigation
Subject: UNKNOWN OBJECT OVER OAK RIDGE, TENNESSEE, MARCH 1, 1950
STUART ADCOCK, INFORMANT
VITAL FACILITIES
INTERNAL SECURITY

Stuart E. Adcock, operator of Radio Station WROL, Knoxville, is reported to have detected on his radar equipment an object directly over Oak Ridge, Tennessee, at an altitude of 40,000 feet at 11:15 p. m., March 1, 1950. On March 2, 1950, he advised that his radar equipment recorded an object about 100,000 feet high and approximately 18 miles from his home in Knoxville at 11:15 a. m. on that date. It was reported that Naval Reserve radar equipment at Knoxville, Tennessee, did not detect an object on any occasion but stated that the equipment was not considered efficient for aircraft at extreme altitudes. It was reported that qualified persons at Oak Ridge, questioned Adcock and examined his radar equipment. They reportedly found his equipment not too reliable and felt that Adcock was technically wrong on some of his radar theory. The reliability of Adcock was also questioned due to some degree of inebriation.

The above confirms information telephonically furnished to Mr. C. A. Rolander of your office. No investigation is being conducted by this Bureau but in the event additional information comes to our attention you will be promptly advised.

cc - Director of Special Investigations
The Inspector General
Department of the Air Force
The Pentagon
Washington, D. C.
cc - Director of Intelligence
General Staff
Department of the Army
The Pentagon
Washington 25, D. C. Attention: Chief, Security and Training Group
CONFIDENTIAL - REGISTERED MAIL
KWD:eal:mes

PAGE 87

PAGE 88

memo

A military communication regarding radar sightings over Oakridge, noting concerns about the reliability of the radar operator and equipment, and requesting communication channels with the Air Force.

CLASSIFIED INCOMING MESSAGE [HANDWRITTEN: SURV For: FBI] DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY STAFF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE [HANDWRITTEN: Recd from IDA CWBjo 3-13-50] [HANDWRITTEN: M021-1] CONFIDENTIAL PARAPHRASE NOT REQUIRED PRIORITY From: COMGENARMYTHREE Ft McPherson Ga To: Dept of Army for Director of Intel [HANDWRITTEN: 5- Disly] Nr: AJACI-3-5 3206 9 Mar 50 Reour TWX AJACI-3-3 subject reported radar sightings over Oakridge, additional info indicates radar operator inexperienced and radar set has been modified so as to cast doubt on reliability of reading. Chief Tennessee Mil Dist recommends expeditious action be taken to determine whether an unknown object has reappeared over Oakridge in the past few days. Chief Security Div at Oakridge requested info as to channels of communication with Air Force in connection with radar sightings. [HANDWRITTEN: Flying Discs] Note: Ref is CM IN 12184 (4 Mar) G-2 ACTION: G-2 INFO: G-3 CM IN 13022 (10 Mar 50) DTG: 091430Z fmb/B 20 MAR 10'50 24 OCS FORM 1 JAN 50 270-1 [HANDWRITTEN: 32 MAR 31 1950] CONFIDENTIAL COPY NO. REPLACES DA SCO FORM 22-3, 15 JAN 49. WHICH MAY BE USED. U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1950-O-868129

PAGE 89

memo

An FBI memo regarding a report from Stuart E. Adcock, a radio station operator, who claimed to have detected an unknown object over Oak Ridge, Tennessee, via radar. The memo notes that Naval Reserve radar did not confirm the object and that Adcock's equipment and reliability were questioned by officials.

Assistant Attorney General James M. McInerney
Criminal Division
Director, FBI [HANDWRITTEN: Declassified 2040 8/31/77]
UNKNOWN OBJECT OVER OAK RIDGE, TENNESSEE, MARCH 1, 1950
STUART ADCOCK, INFORMANT
VITAL FACILITIES
INTERNAL SECURITY

Stuart E. Adcock, operator of Radio Station WROL, Knoxville, is reported to have detected on his radar equipment an object directly over Oak Ridge, Tennessee, at an altitude of 40,000 feet at 11:15 p. m., March 1, 1950. On March 2, 1950, he advised that his radar equipment recorded an object about 100,000 feet high and approximately 18 miles from his home in Knoxville at 11:15 a. m. on that date. It was reported that Naval Reserve radar equipment at Knoxville, Tennessee, did not detect an object on any occasion but stated that the equipment was not considered efficient for aircraft at extreme altitudes. It was further reported that qualified persons at Oak Ridge, questioned Adcock and examined his radar equipment. They reportedly found his equipment not too reliable and felt that Adcock was technically wrong on some of his radar theory. The reliability of Adcock was also questioned due to some degree of inebriation.

No investigation is being conducted by this Bureau but in the event additional information comes to our attention you will be promptly advised.

KWD:eal:mes [HANDWRITTEN: Flying Discs] [HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-219] [HANDWRITTEN: 105-11979] [HANDWRITTEN: MAR 17 1950] [HANDWRITTEN: 80]

PAGE 90

PAGE 91

memo

This document details the coordination between military and FBI personnel to investigate radar observations reported by Stuart Adcock in Knoxville, Tennessee, in March 1950.

A short time after receiving the above information, Special Agent E. L. SEAGRAVES, CIC, 3rd Army, stationed at Knoxville, telephonically communicated with this office to determine if any further information had been received regarding the matter reported by ADCOCK. Mr. SEAGRAVES was, at that time, given all of the information which had been received by this office. SEAGRAVES advised that he had been called by his headquarters, CIC, 3rd Army, Atlanta, Georgia, and had been told to look into the matter to determine if it had any basis in fact. Mr. SEAGRAVES continued that he had made arrangements with Mr. STUART ADCOCK to have him and Special Agent W. M. PRICE, OSI, U. S. Air Forces, to visit ADCOCK's home during the evening of March 2, 1950 and observe the radar indications with him. SEAGRAVES advised that neither he nor Mr. PRICE had any radar experience and were in no sense technicians or radar operators, but would make their observations merely to determine if a real reading was being made by ADCOCK.

On the morning of March 3, 1950, SEAGRAVES again telephonically communicated with this office and advised the Liaison Agent, Special Agent CHARLTON C. MOSWAIN, that he and PRICE had been with ADCOCK during the previous evening and that they had observed on his radar screen some "pips" which, according to ADCOCK, indicated an object with the same general elevation and azimuth as previously reported by him. SEAGRAVES said they were unable to make any authoritative statement concerning the matter of the object or the reliability of the radar equipment, but they had seen sufficient to give them reason to believe it warranted investigation.

General inquiry at this time at Radio Station WROL and other readily available sources of information divulged the fact that STUART ADCOCK is generally recognized in this vicinity as a reputable and substantial citizen in Knoxville and, in addition thereto, is recognized as somewhat of a radio authority. It was found that he is credited with being a skilled radio technician and has done considerable development and research work in the field of radio.

Due to the interest which was being portrayed by all agencies concerned with this matter, the Bureau at this time was apprised by telephone conversation with A. H. BELMONT at the Bureau concerning the facts known. As a result of this conversation, SA MOSWAIN was instructed to follow the matter in the capacity of an observer and to advise the Bureau of any important developments.

Arrangements were made through Lieutenant Commander G. R. SHACKLETT, Commanding Officer, U. S. Naval Reserve Training Center, Alcoa Highway, Knoxville, for the Research Training Center to put into operation radar equipment which they have. At approximately 10:30 A. M. on the same day, this radar

- 2 -

PAGE 92

report

This report details the investigation of a radar object observed over Oak Ridge, Tennessee, including a visit by Stuart Adcock to the Naval Reserve Armory to inspect radar equipment and a subsequent conference with Air Force personnel.

equipment was in operation and continuous search being made. Special Agent MOSWAIN, together with Special Agent SEAGRAVES, CIC, and Special Agent PRICE, OSI, observed this Navy equipment for some time but no object whatsoever could be detected. A telephone call was placed by SEAGRAVES to Mr. ADCOCK at approximately 11:00 A. M. and ADCOCK advised he had been picking up some indication of the object again. He indicated its elevation and direction as well as distance to be the same as previously reported. At the time of his conversation, the Navy equipment detected two aircraft at an elevation of approximately 2,000 feet and a general azimuth of approximately 300 degrees true and seemingly headed in the general direction of the Knoxville Municipal Airport. By way of a check, ADCOCK was asked if he detected on his equipment any objects other than those reported by him. ADCOCK stated that he had noticed two small aircraft headed in the general direction of the Knoxville Airport at a relatively low altitude but he had not paid much attention to them. ADCOCK then requested that he be allowed to view the radar equipment at the Naval Reserve Armory in order that he might coordinate his equipment with that equipment and thus obtain a better fix on the object should it again be located. The radar watch was continued and at about 11:30 A. M. ADCOCK called the armory and advised that the object being observed by him over Oak Ridge had started moving in an easterly direction and had, in a period of about twenty minutes, faded from the screen.

On the afternoon of March 3, 1950 at about 1:30 P. M., STUART ADCOCK, together with CIC, OSI and FBI agents, went to the Naval Armory where ADCOCK was allowed to look at the radar equipment of the Navy. It had been previously determined from Lieutenant Commander SHACKLETT that this equipment did not comprise any classified information. At this time, ADCOCK claimed familiarity with the equipment being used by the Navy and spoke of having assisted in its development at Harvard University during the early stages of the war. ADCOCK also made statements to the effect that he had traveled extensively for the Army during the war in adapting radar for specialized services. At this time, the presence of some alcohol was noted on the breath of ADCOCK, but he was not in an inebriated condition. After examining the equipment, ADCOCK stated he did not feel that this low frequency type of radar would be of much assistance in detecting the object reported by him for several reasons, such as the elevation of the antenna, the minimum fade area, etc. These statements seemed to be in accord with the radar operator's opinion.

At 3:30 P. M. on the afternoon of March 3, 1950, a conference was had with Colonel C. D. GASSER, Engineering Officer, U. S. Air Force Material Command, NEPA Site, Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Those present at the conference were Special Agent SEAGRAVES, CIC; Special Agent PRICE, OSI; Mr. GENE GOEDJEN, U. S. Air Forces Security Officer; Captain ROBERT CROSS, USAF, and Special Agent CHARLTON C. MOSWAIN of this office. At this conference, Colonel GASSER

PAGE 93

report

This report details the coordination between various government agencies (AEC, OSI, CIC, 3rd Army) regarding the investigation of radar findings reported by an individual named Adcock on March 3, 1950.

stated that while it was highly improbable that aircraft could sustain flight at an altitude of 100,000 feet, it was absolutely possible from a scientific and engineering standpoint. Therefore, it was his opinion that the matter should be followed closely. He arranged for Captain CROSS, whom he termed a radar expert, to observe with ADCOCK during the evening of March 3, 1950 the radar equipment on which ADCOCK had detected the object.

Immediately following this conference, Special Agent McSWAIN contacted Mr. CHARLES WHITE, Physical Security and Plant Protection Branch, U. S. AEC, and Mr. FRANK CALLAGHAN, Assistant Chief, Security Division, U. S. AEC, to advise them of the findings and to determine what action was being taken by AEC. Both WHITE and CALLAGHAN advised that the matter had been referred to 3rd Army authorities and that beyond this, no steps had been taken. It was their belief, however, that a radar technician was being sent down, probably from Washington, to inspect the equipment owned by ADCOCK. It was erroneously reported that a CIA technician would come to Oak Ridge.

Also, immediately following this conference above stated, Special Agent PRICE, OSI, called his headquarters at Maxwell Field, Alabama to determine if any action were being taken with regard to having radar equipment flown to this area to verify or disprove the findings of ADCOCK. PRICE was advised that he should act only in the capacity of an observer in the matter but that such radar equipment would be flown up, if requested by the AEC.

Special Agent SEAGRAVES, CIC, stated he had also been advised by his headquarters at Atlanta to act in the capacity of an observer and that, accordingly, he had not as yet been advised whether or not the 3rd Army intended to send mobile radar equipment to the area to verify or disprove the findings of ADCOCK. Inquiry was made by Special Agent PRICE, OSI, of AEC as to whether or not they would request having radar equipment flown in by OSI authorities, and he was told by AEC that while the AEC was, of course, vitally interested in anything which directly affected the safety of the area, they nevertheless did not feel that they had the authority to make a specific request for such action inasmuch as the protection of the area from assault was the responsibility of the 3rd Army. Accordingly, they could not make any direct request for such equipment.

During the evening of March 3, 1950, Special Agent CHARLTON C. McSWAIN and myself, together with SA PRICE (OSI), remained at the Naval Reserve Armory, Alcoa Highway, during which time search was being conducted by the radar equipment at this installation. Captain ROBERT CROSS, NEPA, and Special Agent SEAGRAVES, CIC,

- 4 -

PAGE 94

report

This report details the investigation of Stuart Adcock's radar equipment by military and intelligence personnel, noting their skepticism regarding his technical abilities and the reliability of his equipment after observing him in an inebriated state.

were at the home of STUART ADCOCK observing his radar equipment during this search. No object was reported by ADCOCK during this evening and therefore Captain CROSS had no opportunity to observe his equipment in action, particularly in reference to the reported object at such phenomenal altitudes. No unusual objects were detected by the radar equipment of the U. S. Naval Reserve Armory during the entire evening.

Upon abandoning the watch on this evening, a meeting was held with Captain CROSS after leaving ADCOCK's residence in order to ascertain CROSS' opinion. CROSS stated he had found ADCOCK to be technically incorrect in several matters relating to radar theory and practice and, in addition thereto, had very grave doubts as to the capabilities of the surplus APN-7 radar set which had been adapted by ADCOCK. He stated, however, that he had insufficient opportunity to observe the set in practice or to examine the radio equipment connected with the set to make any definite statements as to whether or not the detection of the unknown object would be possible with said equipment. He said, however, he did feel that ADCOCK was a capable person with pure radio techniques.

On the morning of March 4, 1950 at 10:30 A. M. ADCOCK again contacted Special Agent MCSWAIN of this office and Special Agent SEAGRAVES, CIC, to advise that he had again received indications of the object at approximately 100,000 feet directly over Oak Ridge and that the intensity of the radar "pip" was stronger than noted at any time previous. At about 11:40 A. M. ADCOCK again called and advised he had watched the object until approximately 11:10 A. M., at which time he had noted it stopped circling and headed off in an easterly direction at approximately 200 miles per hour, at which time it had faded from the screen in slightly less than 20 minutes.

On the afternoon of March 4, 1950, Colonel C. D. GASSER and Captain ROBERT CROSS, both NEPA, visited the home of ADCOCK and carefully examined his radio and radar equipment, including the antenna and related mechanisms. After such examination and after talking at some length with ADCOCK, these two gentlemen met with Special Agent SEAGRAVES (CIC), PRICE (OSI) and MCSWAIN (FBI), to give their opinions. Colonel GASSER advised they had found ADCOCK in a much inebriated condition and that they had had difficulty in making any determination as to his abilities in the field of radar. It was their belief that his equipment was haphazard at best and that no great degree of reliability could be placed therein. They did state, however, they intended to return during the morning of March 5, 1950, which was the usual time for the object to be detected.

On the morning of March 5, 1950, Colonel GASSER and Captain CROSS went to the home of Mr. ADCOCK and were unable to gain entry or to find anyone at the residence. After this experience, it was the belief of these two gentlemen
- 5 -

PAGE 95

report

This report details the continued investigation into radar sightings reported by an individual named Adcock, noting the skepticism of military officials regarding his reliability and the subsequent lack of interest from various military branches in further investigation.

that the reliability of ADCOCK was extremely dubious and they felt that the matter was worthy of little consideration.

On the morning of March 6, 1950, ADCOCK again contacted Special Agent SEAGRAVES, CIC, and advised he had again observed the object at about the same altitude over the Oak Ridge area and he estimated the object to be of approximately the same density as would be caused by a DC-4 at that altitude. Again, Colonel GASSER was contacted by Special Agent PRICE of OSI and Colonel GASSER said that he intended to take some electronic equipment to the home of ADCOCK with which they could actually check the electrical circuits of his radar equipment to determine whether or not it was accurate, particularly in view of the fact they had checked some of the findings of ADCOCK with regard to known aircraft detected during previous visits and found him to be off to a considerable extent regarding speed, elevation and azimuth. During the afternoon of March 6, 1950, all day of March 7, and the morning of March 8, 1950, attempts were made by Special Agent PRICE, OSI, to get in touch with ADCOCK to make an appointment with Colonel GASSER and Captain CROSS, and ADCOCK could not be located. According to his office at Station WROL, he had left town and it was not known when he would return.

In summary, therefore, it seems to be the general opinion that the actual existence of an object at such an exceptional altitude is quite improbable and no explanation is yet known as to just what was detected by ADCOCK on his screen or, in fact, whether anything was detected. On the afternoon of March 8, 1950, Special Agent SEAGRAVES telephoned Special Agent McSWAIN of this office and advised that two representatives of the 14th Air Forces with headquarters at Greenville, South Carolina, had arrived in Knoxville and contacted him with regard to making an appointment with ADCOCK to inspect his equipment. These representatives advised they did not feel it sufficiently important for them to remain or to make a return trip inasmuch as ADCOCK was unavailable.

This information is being furnished to the Bureau in detail inasmuch as it is the understanding of this office that Colonel C. D. GASSER was much perturbed in the manner in which this matter was handled and has written letters to his Commanding Officer, U. S. Air Forces Material Command, Wright Field, concerning it. These letters by Colonel GASSER apparently were prompted from the fact that the 3rd Army Intelligence representative and the Air Force Intelligence representative have both been instructed to act as observers only, with no authority to act in the situation. In addition thereto, AEC felt that their responsibility had been discharged upon notifying the 3rd Army. The Bureau was obviously interested only from an observer's viewpoint and no question of jurisdiction in this regard was raised.

- 6 -

PAGE 96

memo

This memo details the coordination between the AEC, the 3rd Army, and the 14th Air Force regarding an incident report, noting a lack of clear responsibility and procedural delays.

On the morning of March 7, 1950, Special Agent MCSWAIN of this office was advised by Mr. HOWARD WOODSIDE, U. S. AEC Security Division, of steps taken by AEC in this regard. Mr. WOODSIDE stated that immediately upon receiving the report from me, he had made the matter known to the proper authorities at AEC and early the following morning he had conversed with Colonel JOHN MEADE, 3rd Army Headquarters, Atlanta, Georgia, and apprised him of the matter. Mr. WOODSIDE stated he also conversed with 14th Air Force Headquarters at Greenville, South Carolina and advised them of the matter. He stated that this was strictly in accordance with the plans drawn up between AEC and the armed forces for protection against air or land assault. He continued that the AEC has neither the facilities nor the equipment with which to defend itself in such emergencies and that such responsibility had been assumed by these agencies of the military forces.

It would appear from the manner in which this incident was handled that despite the fact that all agencies seemed to be operating in the manner prescribed by agreement, and although each was apprised of the action being taken by the other and cooperating in every respect, there nevertheless seemed to be an impressive lack of any agency actually taking the responsibility for the situation and taking any action to verify or disprove the threat. Had a similar incident occurred wherein an actual threat against the physical security of the AEC Installation had been experienced, it is not implausible to believe that a similar confused fixing of final authority would have been found. It should be noted that many hours elapsed from the receiving of the first report until such time as any reasonable conclusion could be reached concerning the matter and nothing of a positive nature with regard to any action being taken had been during all that time. While it is now felt that this entire matter was in a manner of speaking "dry run", it nevertheless warrants some consideration from a procedural standpoint and might be worthy of discussion at some liaison meeting in the future.

The Bureau will be immediately advised if there are any further developments in this matter.

- 7 -

PAGE 97

other

This is the cover page of the April 7, 1950 issue of U.S. News & World Report, featuring a headline about flying saucers and a photograph of Speaker Sam Rayburn, with various handwritten routing notes for FBI personnel.

U.S. News & World Report
APRIL 7, 1950 15 CENTS
FLYING SAUCERS: THE REAL STORY
[HANDWRITTEN: To Mr. Tolson Mr. Ladd Mr. Nichols Mr. Rosen Mr. Tracy Mr. Harbo Mr. Belmont Tele. Room Mr. Nease Miss Gandy]
[HANDWRITTEN: mem]
[HANDWRITTEN: morst]
[HANDWRITTEN: APn]
SPEAKER SAM RAYBURN
Congress at the Halfway Mark
[HANDWRITTEN: HON J EDGAR HOOVER 4936 30TH PL N W WASHINGTON 8 D C]

PAGE 98

other

This is a blank page containing administrative file markings and dates related to a 'Flying Disc' file.

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894 - File in Flying Disc file file 5 IH] [HANDWRITTEN: 52 APR 20 1950] [HANDWRITTEN: APR 14 1950]

PAGE 99

report

An article from U.S. News & World Report titled 'FLYING SAUCERS-THE REAL STORY: U.S. BUILT FIRST ONE IN 1942' detailing the history, design, and operation of flying saucers as perceived by U.S. government engineers and observers.

VOLUME XXVIII-No. 14 U.S. News & World Report WASHINGTON, D. C.

FLYING SAUCERS-THE REAL STORY:
U.S. BUILT FIRST ONE IN 1942

Jet-Propelled Disks Can Outfly Other Planes

Observers of "flying saucers" aren't just seeing things. They're real-aircraft that conform to accepted laws.
Sky disks, manned by regular pilots, can hover aloft, spurt ahead at tremendous speed, out-maneuver conventional craft.
No official announcements are being made yet. But about the only big secret left is who makes them. Evidence points to Navy experiments.
The real story on "flying saucers" is finally coming to light. What the saucers are, how they operate, and how they have been tested in U. S., all can be told in detail at this time.
That story, without violating present security regulations, points to these basic conclusions by engineers competent to appraise reports of reliable observers:
Flying saucers, seen by hundreds of competent observers over most parts of U. S., are accepted as real. Evidence is that they are aircraft of a revolutionary type, a combination of helicopter and fast jet plane. They conform to well-known principles of aerodynamics. An early model of these saucers was built by U. S. engineers in 1942, achieved more than 100 successful test flights. That project then was taken over by the Navy in wartime. Much more advanced models now are being built. Just where present saucers are being built also is indicated by evidence now available.
In more detail, the story pieced together from nonsecret testimony of responsible U. S. scientists, private observers and military officials, is this:
Early models of the flying saucer, pictured on this page and the next, were built by U. S. Government engineers of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics. Similar flying-saucer projects were begun in Germany and Italy at the same time, in 1942.
The first U.S. model, designed by Charles H. Zimmerman, of NACA, was elliptical in shape, powered by two piston engines and driven by twin propellers. It had a maximum speed between 400 and 500 miles an hour. More important, it could rise almost vertically and its minimum speed for landing was only about 35 miles an hour, a great advantage in military and naval aircraft. And it was far more maneuverability than conventional military planes.
Idea behind those original flying-saucer projects, both in U. S. and abroad in Germany and Italy, was to overcome basic drawbacks of conventional aircraft by new techniques. A plane that could rise almost straight would not need long airfields, could be used from any cleared area just behind front-line troops or from the deck of any Navy combat ship. If that plane, in addition, had great speed and more maneuverability, it could probably outfly any conventional aircraft. In United States, the first model seemed to fulfill these requirements, but the lessened stability of the wingless craft required more research.
Present flying saucers apparently have overcome this problem of stability by use of very advanced design. An analysis of reports submitted by competent observers show this:
What they look like, first, is described in well-documented accounts. Those accounts show saucers to be exactly 105 feet in diameter, circular in shape. They have what appear to be jet nozzles arranged all around the outer rim, just below the center of gravity. They are made of a metal alloy, with a dull whitish color. There are no rudders, ailerons, or other protruding surfaces. From the side, the saucers appear about 10 feet thick-there are no exact measurements from this angle in publicly available accounts. They are built in three layers, with the center layer slightly larger in diameter than the other two.
That is the picture agreed on by qualified observers of saucers in flight-commercial aircraft pilots, fighter pilots who have chased these aircraft, trained air-plane spotters, high-ranking Army and Air Force officers. It is backed by measurement made by a group of scientists last April near White Sands Proving Ground base, with instruments set up to observe high-altitude balloons, who suddenly observed a saucer and tracked it for several minutes, thereby getting reliable data on its size, speed, altitude and maneuverability.
How they operate now can be told in some detail, too. Based on this description, the probable technique used by current saucers is explained by a top-level Government aeronautical engineer in this manner:
Power for these aircraft, at their present stage of development, obviously is supplied by jet engines. Each saucer appears to have a series of variable-direction jet nozzles around its rim, with a complicated central control system. Fuel used is unknown-the exhaust flame has been observed to be red-orange in some cases, blue in others, miss-

[HANDWRITTEN: U. S. 'SAUCER'-1942 MODEL ... a combination of helicopter and fast jet plane]
APRIL 7, 1950 13

PAGE 100

report

A magazine article from U.S. News & World Report discussing the aerodynamics and observed behavior of flying saucers, suggesting they are man-made aircraft rather than extraterrestrial.

U. S. News & World Rep.

FACT: THESE DESIGNS, AND LATER ONES ARE REAL

DISK-LIKE NAVY FLOUNDER PROJECT WAS 'DROPPED'

MOCK-UP OF EARLY MODEL IS TESTED IN WIND TUNNEL
. . . latest models are circular, faster, more maneuverable

14

ing in still others. The saucers appear to have the power to "coast" long distances, thus saving on fuel consumption.

Direction of the aircraft and its velocity, in turn, evidently are controlled by the angle at which the jet nozzles are tilted, the number operating, the power applied. By choosing which nozzles to turn on or off and the angle of tilt, the pilot could make the saucer rise or descend vertically, hover, fly straight ahead, or make sharp turns. A right-angle turn, for example, could be made by turning off the rear jets, turning on the side and front nozzles. Great speed can be obtained by focusing to the rear all nozzles in the after half of the aircraft. With all nozzles pointed downward, the saucer could rise straight off the ground, and, with less power, could descend the same way.

That is the explanation, based on accepted principles of aerodynamics, given by an authoritative engineer as the likely answer to how these saucer aircraft operate. As evidence that this explanation is correct, there are these actual cases of publicly observed saucer behavior:

Rows of window-like openings around the rims of saucers traveling at more than 500 miles an hour are mentioned in several documented reports. In all cases, these "windows" glowed as if they were jet-nozzle openings. The most recent of these reports was made last month by two experienced pilots of the Chicago and Southern Air Lines, who passed within 1,000 feet of a saucer traveling over Arkansas. Another similar report was made by two Eastern Air Lines pilots who narrowly missed colliding with a saucer in July, 1948, while flying a DC-3 over Georgia.

Saucers' ability to hover in mid-air, accelerate at tremendous speed, and then rise almost vertically is described in several reports, one documented by Air Force officers at Fort Knox, Ky. That saucer, seen by dozens of officers at the post, was chased by three military pilots flying fast F-51s. The saucer quickly out-maneuvered the planes.

Speed of one saucer was measured by ground instruments in the White Sands case at well over the speed of sound, indicating the use of a number of jet engines. Cruising speed has been estimated in other cases at 200 to 600 miles an hour.

What it all adds up to is this: Flying saucers being observed in many parts of the U. S. are not mysterious visitors from Mars. They are actual planes, soundly engineered on principles developed by U.S. in wartime. By using this new design, they can do things that no conventional aircraft can be expected to approach.

Who's building the saucers now being observed in test flights over U. S.

O U. S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT

PAGE 101

press-release

A magazine article from U.S. News & World Report speculating that flying saucers are a secret U.S. Navy development rather than extraterrestrial in origin.

U. S. News & World Report

is not yet publicly disclosed. It cannot be proved until a public announcement is made or until a saucer crashes away from its home base-which is highly unlikely because of its jet helicopter action that makes take-offs and landings almost completely safe. But there are these factors that point to an answer:
Official inquiry by the Air Force, in the face of overwhelming evidence that the saucers are real, was called off last December. This indicates clearly that top Air Force officials know where the saucers originate and are not concerned about them, as they would be if these aircraft were from Russia or Mars. These officials, at the same time, denied emphatically that a secret Air Force project is responsible.
Best use of fully developed saucer aircraft, however, could be made in wartime not by the Air Force, but by the Navy. All fleet operations now require an air cover, even in antisubmarine warfare, and a plane that can rise like a helicopter could be used from any Navy combat ship, not only from big, expensive aircraft carriers. It was for that reason that the first U.S. flying saucer was purchased by the Navy after the original model was tested in 1942. That first full-size aircraft, built by Chance-Vought, was thoroughly tested by Navy engineers. Then a statement was released that this project had been dropped. Early experimenting with saucers, thus, centered in the Navy.
Big spending on missile aircraft centers in the Navy now, too. More than twice as many dollars were spent by the Navy last year as by the Air Force on secret guided-missile research. There is no public accounting for these millions, the only Government funds aside from atomic-energy dollars that still are being spent with great secrecy.
Surface indications, then, point to research centers of the U. S. Navy's vast guided-missile project as the scene of present flying-saucer development. That project has the scientists, the engineers, the dollars, the motive, and the background of early Navy development of saucer-type aircraft. This likelihood will remain, despite any future denials by the Navy front office, until secrecy is lifted on the big missile program.
But, regardless of just where these saucers are being built now, the evidence points to a U. S. development that will mean a radical change in aircraft design in coming decades. In war, this combination of helicopter and fast jet plane will easily outfly any present types of military aircraft. In peacetime, the safety of a nearly crash-proof aircraft may be expected to revolutionize civil air transport. It all points to a big advance in the science of flying.
APRIL 7, 1950 o 15

FANCY: SPACE SHIPS, MONSTERS, MARTIANS, MAYHEM
NOCTURNAL 'INVASION'
SURPRISE PACKAGE FROM MARS
A PLANE DESIGNER'S DAYDREAM
HOME-MADE SAUCER
?????
The real thing is strictly a one-planet proposition

PAGE 102

form

An FBI Service Unit Search Slip for subject Miguel Angel Garcia Macias, dated May 16, 1950, referencing file number 62-83894-220.

SERVICE UNIT 4-22a
SEARCH SLIP
Supervisor [HANDWRITTEN: Mossburg] Room [HANDWRITTEN: 3708]
Subj: [HANDWRITTEN: Miguel Angel Garcia Macias]
[HANDWRITTEN: ✓] Exact Spelling Searchers
[HANDWRITTEN: ✓] All References Initial [HANDWRITTEN: fm]
Subversive Ref. Date [HANDWRITTEN: 5-16-50]
Mail File
Restricted to Locality of

FILE NUMBER SERIALS
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-220]

[HANDWRITTEN: File 5 Ethm]

Initialed

PAGE 103

memo

An FBI memorandum from the New York SAC to the Director regarding a letter received from Miguel Angel Garcia Macias, which included hand-drawn designs and a newspaper clipping, suggesting the Bureau have it examined by another agency.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : Director, FBI DATE: April 11, 1950
FROM : SAC, New York
SUBJECT: MIGUEL ANGEL GARCIA MACIAS

[HANDWRITTEN: ffo] There is enclosed a letter directed to the "President of the Commission of Scientific Investigation of the United States of North America," which was received at this office on April 7, 1950. This letter is dated at Veracruz, March 19, 1950, and is from a MIGUEL ANGEL GARCIA MACIAS. There is attached to this letter an English translation, together with a newspaper clipping in the Spanish language and four hand-drawn designs. Because of the technical language used, it is rather difficult to determine whether the information is authentic or whether the author of this material is either psychotic or neurotic.

It is suggested that the Bureau may desire to have the enclosed examined by some Government agency familiar with the language appearing therein for its ultimate dissemination.

TGS:RAA

Enclosures [HANDWRITTEN: Enc & trans. with letter to A, 2, 5-17-50 EN M/eal] [HANDWRITTEN: ENCL] [HANDWRITTEN: ENCLOSURE BEHIND FILE] [HANDWRITTEN: 23] [HANDWRITTEN: FLYING SAUCERS] [HANDWRITTEN: Rec'd 5/8/50 EHM] RECORDED - 23, INDEXED - 23 162-83894-220 APR 12 1950 3 [HANDWRITTEN: EHM] [HANDWRITTEN: FIVE] [HANDWRITTEN: mossley EHM]

PAGE 104

memo

A memorandum from the FBI regarding a letter received on April 17, 1950, about a 'flying disc' sighting, suggesting it be forwarded to the Air Force.

Memorandum

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

There is enclosed a letter directed to the
Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation,
which was received in this office on April 17, 1950,
referring to the "flying discs". The letter is
attached to this memorandum and contains information
concerning the sighting of a "flying disc" and
requests that the Bureau conduct an investigation
into the matter.

It is suggested that the enclosed
be forwarded to the Air Force for their
information and handling.

RECEIVED
APR 19 9 53 AM '50
F B I
REC'D ESPIONAGE
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED
APR 18 3 45 PM '50
F B I
INTERNAL SECURITY SECTION
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

PAGE 105

memo

A memo from J. Edgar Hoover to the Office of Special Investigations regarding a letter from a correspondent in Veracruz, Mexico, expressing interest in flying discs.

RECORDED - 96 [HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-220]
Date: May 17, 1950
To: Director
Office of Special Investigations
The Inspector General
Department of the Air Force
The Pentagon
Washington, D. C.
From: J. Edgar Hoover - Director, Federal Bureau of Investigation
Subject: FLYING DISCS

There are attached hereto for your information in connection with the captioned matter a communication written in Spanish dated March 19, 1950, at Veracruz, Veracruz, Mexico, and enclosures addressed to the "Presidente de la Comision de Investigacion Cientifica de Estados Unidos de Norte America."

In view of the fact that a translation of the above referred to communication reflects the correspondent's interest in flying discs, it is being furnished to your office for appropriate attention. The files of this Bureau contain no information which can be identified with the writer of this letter. No reply has been made to the writer of this letter by this Bureau in view of the fact that it was not addressed to this Bureau.

Attachment
EHM:eal

[HANDWRITTEN: APPROPRIATE AGENCIES AND FIELD OFFICES ADVISED BY ROUTING SLIP(S) OF 2040 8/31/77]

[HANDWRITTEN: 53 MAY 26 1950]

PAGE 106

PAGE 107

letter

A letter from a citizen to the FBI reporting a sighting of a silvery white object in the sky near Geneva, Illinois, on April 1, 1950.

U. S. TREASURY DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF DISTRICT SUPERVISOR
DISTRICT NO. 9, ALCOHOL TAX UNIT
734 NEW POST OFFICE BUILDING
CHICAGO 7, ILL.
April 4, 1950
Federal Bureau of Investigations
Washington, D. C.
This is not an April Fool joke.
Saturday, April 1, 1950 at about 6 P.M. I was driving north on Route 47 - west of Geneva, Illinois and a little north of St. Charles, Illinois. Just ahead, thru the windshield I saw a silvery white object in the sky. It was traveling west at about the speed of an air plane. It was shaped like this [HANDWRITTEN: drawing of a trapezoid]. I was driving at 35 M.P.H. and slowed down to 20 M.P.H. to watch this object. It went behind a white cloud and I continued to watch but the object did not come out from behind the cloud as far as I could see.
Geneva is 35 miles west of Chicago, and just north of Chicago is the Glenview Airport, operated I believe by the Navy. The Saturday Evening Post carried an article sometime ago about Flying Saucers and it said to report anything like the above to the F.B.I. [HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-221]
RECORDED-56
[HANDWRITTEN: NIC
mme
ack 4/11/50
20th 4-11-50
Miss Laura McClaskey
at St. Geneva, Ill. or Rm 734 New Post Office Bldg Chgo]

PAGE 108

other

This page is a blank letterhead from the U.S. Treasury Department, Alcohol Tax Unit, containing multiple date-stamped receipt marks from the FBI and Records Section.

U. S. TREASURY DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF DISTRICT SUPERVISOR
DISTRICT NO. 9, ALCOHOL TAX UNIT
NEW POST OFFICE BUILDING
CHICAGO 7, ILL.

[HANDWRITTEN: 4/4]

RECEIVED
APR 24 9 45 AM '50
INTERNAL SECURITY SN
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED
APR 6 4 18 PM '50
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED
RECORDS SEC.
APR 6 3 27 PM '50
MR JONES

PAGE 109

PAGE 110

other

This page contains only administrative date stamps from the FBI mail room.

APR 26 4 43 PM '50
INTERNAL SECURITY SN
F B I
U.S DEPT. OF JUSTICE

APR 12 11 40 AM '51
RECEIVED-MAIL ROOM
F B I
U.S DEPT. OF JUSTICE

PAGE 111

memo

An FBI internal memo regarding a flying saucer report from the Elmira, New York Police Department, detailing instructions to coordinate with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : MR. A. H. BELMONT [HANDWRITTEN: AB/B] DATE: April 8, 1950
FROM : W. T. BROOKING
SUBJECT: FLYING SAUCER COMPLAINT
ELMIRA, NEW YORK PD INFORMANT

Reference teletype dated April 8, 1950, from the Buffalo
Office advising that information had been received from the Elmira
Police Department regarding a flying saucer and advising that press
inquiries are being answered by the Buffalo Office.

Mr. V. P. Keay was contacted and he advised that the
Duty Officer at the Office of Special Investigations, Inspector
General, Air Force, should be contacted and furnished the information
regarding the flying saucer.

Captain Ralph C. Williams, Air Force, Duty Officer, was
telephonically contacted and furnished the information regarding the
flying saucer.

SA J. J. McGuire was contacted and advised of the teletype
and that a statement was contained therein that press inquiries had been
received and were being answered. McGuire instructed that the Buffalo
Office be telephonically contacted and advised that they should furnish
the information regarding the flying saucer to the Air Force Office in
that area and that any press inquiries regarding the flying saucer
should be referred to the Air Force in that area.

SA Robert Cryan of the Buffalo Office was telephonically
contacted and advised of the above instructions.

WTB:hke
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-222]
[HANDWRITTEN: Mossburg]
[HANDWRITTEN: 5-EHW]
RECORDED - 53
APR 19 1950
37
EX-115
50 APR 25 1950

PAGE 112

PAGE 113

memo

An FBI teletype from the Buffalo office reporting that a reported 'flying saucer' near the Elmira, NY airport was actually a cardboard box with a radio tube and a flare attached.

[HANDWRITTEN: M.9 memo by [ILLEGIBLE] 4/8/50 CA] FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNICATIONS SECTION APR - 8 1950 TELETYPE [HANDWRITTEN: [ILLEGIBLE]]

FBI, BUFFALO 4-8-50 12-52 PM
DIRECTOR, FBI U R G E N T
FLYING SAUCER COMPLAINT. INFORMATION RECEIVED FROM ELMIRA PD. THAT FLYING SAUCER HAD LANDED NEAR ELMIRA, NY AIRPORT. RESIDENT AGENT AT ELMIRA ADVISES "FLYING SAUCER" WAS CORRUGATED CARDBOARD BOX, FORTY INS. IN DIAMETER, ONE FOOT THICK AT CENTER. ENTIRE BOX PAINTED ALUMINUM. CROSLEY RADIO TUBE ATTACHED TO CENTER OF BOX WITH LOOSE WIRES HANGING FROM EACH SIDE OF TUBE, TRUCKER-S RED FLARE CONNECTED TO BOTTOM OF BOX, WHICH FLARE HAD SCORCHED GRASS AREA BENEATH BOX. NO WITNESSES AS TO ACTUAL FLIGHT AND BOX IS DESCRIBED AS TOO FRAGILE TO WITHSTAND FLIGHT. BUREAU BEING ADVISED AS PRESS INQUIRIES HAVE BEEN RECEIVED AND ARE BEING ANSWERED ACCORDING TO THE ABOVE FACTS.

MAYNOR RECORDED - 6 [HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-223] APR 19 1950 37 [HANDWRITTEN: cc Belmont]

CORRECTION
FIFTH LINE FORTH WORD SHOULD BE "ATTACHED"
S
12-55 PM OK FBI WA LIR
V
[HANDWRITTEN: 5-Elmira] [HANDWRITTEN: Mossburg] 65APR 26 1950

PAGE 114

PAGE 115

memo

An FBI teletype from the Buffalo office reporting that a reported 'flying saucer' near Elmira, NY, was actually a corrugated cardboard box with a radio tube and flare attached.

[HANDWRITTEN: Keay Capt R. Wms Airforce advised SA Robt Bryan advised to refer press to Buffalo per instructions Mc Guire]

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
COMMUNICATIONS SECTION
APR - 8 1950
TELETYPE

FBI, BUFFALO 4-8-50 12-52 PM
DIRECTOR, FBI U R G E N T

FLYING SAUCER COMPLAINT. INFORMATION RECEIVED FROM ELMIRA PD. THAT
FLYING SAUCER HAD LANDED NEAR ELMIRA, NY AIRPORT, RESIDENT AGENT AT
ELMIRA ADVISES "FLYING SAUCER" WAS CORRUGATED CARDBOARD BOX, FORTY INS.
IN DIAMETER, ONE FOOT THICK AT CENTER. ENTIRE BOX PAINTED ALUMINUM,
CROSLEY RADIO TUBE ATTACHED TO CENTER OF BOX WITH LOOSE WIRES HANGING
FROM EACH SIDE OF TUBE, TRUCKER-S RED FLARE CONNECTED TO BOTTOM OF BOX,
WHICH FLARE HAD SCORCHED GRASS AREA BENEATH BOX. NO WITNESSES AS TO
ACTUAL FLIGHT AND BOX IS DESCRIBED AS TOO FRAGILE TO WITHSTAND FLIGHT.
BUREAU BEING ADVISED AS PRESS INQUIRIES HAVE BEEN RECEIVED AND ARE BEING
ANSWERED ACCORDING TO THE ABOVE FACTS.

MAYNOR

CORRECTION
FIFTH LINE FORTH WORD SHOULD BE "ATTACHED"

S
12-55 PM OK FBI WA LIR
V
[HANDWRITTEN: memo from mr. Brooking to mr. Belmont 4/8/50 WTB]

PAGE 116

other

This page is a blank document containing only teletype receipt stamps from the FBI Department of Justice dated April 8, 1950.

RECEIVED TELETYPE UNIT
APR 8 12 56 PM '50
F.B.I. DEPT OF JUSTICE

APR 8 1 28 PM '50
REC'D BELMONT
F.B.I.
DEPT. OF JUSTICE

PAGE 117

memo

An FBI memo dated April 11, 1950, forwarding a communication from Miss Laura McClaskey regarding 'Flying Saucers' to the Secretary of the Air Force.

April 11, 1950

Secretary of the Air Force
National Defense Building
The Pentagon
Washington 25, D. C.

[HANDWRITTEN: Flying Saucers]

Miss Laura McClaskey
201 North First Street
Geneva, Illinois

Enclosed is a copy of a communication dated
April 4, 1950, from the captioned individual, which is
furnished to you for any action deemed appropriate. [HANDWRITTEN: C]

Enclosure

NJC:ok [HANDWRITTEN: ok]

RECORDED - 99
INDEXED - 99

[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-224]
APR 13 1950
80

[HANDWRITTEN: EX-136]

[HANDWRITTEN: Tolson, Ladd, Clegg, Glavin, Nichols, Rosen, Tracy, Harbo, Mohr, Tele. Room, Nease, Gandy]

[HANDWRITTEN: 326]
[HANDWRITTEN: 8 MAY 9 1950]

PAGE 118

PAGE 119

memo

An FBI memorandum regarding William Albert Rhodes, who requested the return of photographs he had previously provided to Air Force Intelligence.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : Director, FBI DATE: 4/18/50
FROM : SAC, Phoenix
SUBJECT: WILLIAM ALBERT RHODES
INFORMATION CONCERNING
FLYING DISCS

Rebulet 6/30/49. [HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-183]
On 4/17/50 Mr. RHODES advised he had been contacted by True Magazine and would like to secure the photographs which he had made available to the Air Force Intelligence.

He was referred to OSI, Fourth Air Force Base, San Francisco, California, since the photographs desired were made available by him to a representative of A-2 of the Fourth Air Force on 8/30/47.

WAM-kb
62-213

RECORDED - 49
INDEXED - 49
[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-225]
[HANDWRITTEN: APR 24 1950]
[HANDWRITTEN: 224]
[HANDWRITTEN: MAY 9 1950]

PAGE 120

letter

A letter from a citizen to the FBI regarding a sketch of a flying saucer based on drawings by Herman Ubalsky, including claims about the speed and origin of the objects.

Yuba City, California 4-8-1950
[HANDWRITTEN: n.c.c]
F. B. I.
P. O. Building
Niagara sq Buffalo N.Y
[HANDWRITTEN: Flying Saucers]
Gentlemen:-
Here is a sketch of a "flying saucer," as was [HANDWRITTEN: Herman Ubalsky] given to me by Herman Ubalsky a free hand drawing by me after going over Ubalskys drawings I was very interested in same as to what made it "tick" and I will give you the sketches by me as I have a pretty good memory on what I see. Ubalsky said these "saucers" can attain tremendous speeds and says when one is launched near Leningrad it is but 3 hrs if not in to much of a hurry to New York, Washington, Boston, Albany and a lot of other citys on the atlantic coast. [HANDWRITTEN: C]
I am at Redwood Valley [HANDWRITTEN: 25] [HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-226] [HANDWRITTEN: m] now in Calif on 101 highway 9 mi north of Ukiah. Will go back to Yuba City and Marysville and Stockton next week after Easter [HANDWRITTEN: 1950] I understand these "saucers" do not need much [HANDWRITTEN: nme ack 4-14-50 nge]

PAGE 121

diagram

A handwritten note and diagram describing a theoretical saucer-shaped craft, attributed to an individual named Ubalstky, with claims about its speed and altitude capabilities.

power to run them and Ubalstky says they can go over 5,000 mi per hr. and go as high as two hundred thousand feet and more. Well give these sketches to our army chiefs of staff and they can soon tell what is what about I think Ubalstky lied some but it looks kinda good and that Russia has a lot of them.

[HANDWRITTEN: diagram of a saucer mechanism with labels: "spreader to hold cables apart", "collar", "weights revolving inside saucer", "slides horizontal to keep weights centered as they revolve", "center stanchion of saucer", "slides horizontal to keep weights centered as they revolve", "weights revolving inside saucer", "collar", "spreaders to hold cables apart", "ball bearing swivel which makes non turning swivel bar to which weights pull against", "weights"]

[HANDWRITTEN: 4/10 Jones]

[STAMP: RECEIVED FBI U S DEP OF JUSTICE APR 10 3 12 PM 50 MP JONES]

PAGE 122

diagram

A hand-drawn technical diagram illustrating a cable and pulley system, likely for a mechanical device or saucer-shaped craft, with descriptive notes on its components and movement.

[HANDWRITTEN: weight revolves. double cable sheave. double cable sheave. double cable sheave. sheave plate holding cables also revolves. weight revolves. this sheave revolves. sheave double acts also as spacer or spreader. ball bearing swivel & bolt. this plate revolves. this plate doesn't revolve. stanchion in saucer. keeper across sheave to hold cable on as it revolves. cable lace up to weights. sheave double. cable lace up to weights. cable anchor 2. 3 cross bar. this shows lace of cable to weights and sheaves. there are two of these set ups. one on each side this shows detail of one the other one is left out it would be at 3 the next sketch will show what makes it revolve that swivel plate is a cog wheel at 4. The sheave plate at 5 is made double and a bearing is between the two plates so it can move (over) hme ark 4-14-50 ngo]

PAGE 123

diagram

A hand-drawn technical diagram of a mechanical assembly involving shafts, cog wheels, and weights, with an explanatory note describing the mechanism's operation.

2
up and downs a mi as the weights revolve the bearing moves
lengthwise as well as revolves
[HANDWRITTEN: bearing]
[HANDWRITTEN: shaft]
[HANDWRITTEN: shaft support]
[HANDWRITTEN: one]
[HANDWRITTEN: cable]
[HANDWRITTEN: cable]
[HANDWRITTEN: one]
[HANDWRITTEN: engine shaft]
[HANDWRITTEN: 4]
[HANDWRITTEN: 4]
one and one cog wheels make there is a sliding key and way
in shaft at 2 and the cog what one on engine shaft turns
the shaft 3 causing the weights to revolve, the cog wheels 4 & 4
drive swivel plate 4 & 4 and shaft 3 run even, i.e. both the
same R.P.M. This is the mechanism of the thing as near
as I can remember it from the drawings.

PAGE 124

letter

A handwritten letter from Lewis A. Ward to an unnamed recipient regarding a person named Ubalsty and a 'saucer'.

thro the Buffalo office. The story is to long to write it down to-day. I feel jittery about this fellow Ubalsty as I think he is a very bad egg and etc. He was friendly to me and told me to do the best I could and when I get it done to let them know and my price will be paid pronto. This keeps me on a footing with them and I stall them off all the time. Well this is the saucer as I have it for you.

Yours Truly
Lewis A Ward
336 Bird st
Yuba City
Calif.

PAGE 125

transcript

A handwritten letter describing a conversation with an individual regarding the technical specifications of a jet-like craft, followed by the author's personal claims about working on a cosmic ray engine and being contacted by the Russians.

I do not know how the rudders go on he said they were manual control, hydraulic control and electronic control as they pulled hard at high speed.
The jet is fed by pellets carefully proportioned to the charge in the jet chamber and are fed to it fast by gadgets operated by electronics so as they go fast and accurate. I gave the idea that is all I cannot draw the gadgets as I do not know how; But I saw in the drawings electric control on them.
He says they can light on a pond and take off on a pond or even flat land he said they can light and take off if they have to but its damn rough going.
I wonder if thats "horse feathers".
Well that is all I know about it the rest you will have to dope out. I have looked my copies over after I left him and while the drawings were fresh in my head I can see nothing further to try and tell you about
In case you do not know I am the fellow who reported to the Buffalo office when I lived at 164 Prospect Ave in Buffalo. I am working on an engine that goes by the cosmic ray. The Russians want to get this - rest assured they never will so they make contact with me and see what I got to say about this engine. You likely know about it if you inquire.

PAGE 126

diagram

A handwritten document containing a diagram of a mechanical device and a description of how 'saucers' are launched using a catapult and jet propulsion system, as described by an individual named Ubalsky.

[HANDWRITTEN: 4 The saucers are launched by a catapult...]

[HANDWRITTEN: bolt]
[HANDWRITTEN: cable]
[HANDWRITTEN: slide guide]
[HANDWRITTEN: Cable]
[HANDWRITTEN: Bolt]
[HANDWRITTEN: ball bearing for swivel]
[HANDWRITTEN: ball bearing on bolt]

[HANDWRITTEN: These saucers are 30 feet and more in dia and not very heavy Ubalsky says. The plane division of our army can soon figure this out I cannot as it is out of my line but I seen the mechanics of it I did not see any propellor on it in the drawings I saw they use a jet on it to so Ubalsky says. They use pellets in a case in the jet and it fires like a cannon and the recoil sends the saucer very fast]

PAGE 127

other

A handwritten description of the mechanical and structural components of a saucer-shaped craft, including propulsion, steering, and material composition.

This uses centrifugal force and is cable connected to weights that revolve at right angles to the pull on the "saucer" I presume engines are synchronized as to speed the wt of the revolving balls gives the pull to pull "saucer" and the whole mechanism is inside of the "saucer" there are a bottom and top saucer
He said there is an up and down rudders and a sideways rudder but very small and they are handeled by electronic gadgets at high speed
The saucers are made of magnesium and reinforced for strength they look something like this the saucers it looks are air tight
[HANDWRITTEN: Sketch of a saucer-shaped object]
These drawings are not much - but there is not much to them as I cannot give dimensions our "Techs" will have to figure that out as I am dam lucky to find this out and be all together.

PAGE 128

letter

A handwritten letter describing an individual named Ubalsky, his physical description, his background, and his claims regarding high-speed travel and his arrival in the U.S. via submarine.

6 Ubalsky says [REDACTED] high altitudes [REDACTED] it will speed up to - well he don't know but it is a terrific speed he said he thought 10 thousand mi. per. hr.

Now this does not look like a lot of horse feathers so I am putting it into your hands as if it is a trap for me its only you can get me in dutch and I know you won't do that - but get it into our army chiefs hands for I do not know if this will fly or not - but on the other hand it may be all O.K. so what.

Ubalsky is 5 feet 8" tall wt. 175 square faced quite a large mouth gold teeth left side upper light hair sort of red chested big arms all around stout square hands short fat fingers and talks good english - blue eyes. has friends in Buffalo Iowa, is a Russian Pole and was in world two in Europe.

He has gone to Ketchican he knows some folks there he said he got off a submarine and gave a fisherman a sum of money to get him ashore, near Eureka and he said he was drifting inshore in a drift boat made of rubber when picked up - he said there was nothing to it getting ashore.

When you give this to the army chiefs keep my name out of it - I want to get a lot more information to give to you

PAGE 129

diagram

A handwritten technical diagram and description of a jet propulsion mechanism for a saucer-shaped craft, detailing pressure chambers, electronic valves, and fuel capsule ignition.

[HANDWRITTEN: The jet]
[HANDWRITTEN: plug for end of muzzle]
[HANDWRITTEN: electronic plug in end of muzzle]
[HANDWRITTEN: air in this compartment 300 lbs p.s.i.]
[HANDWRITTEN: electronic valve]
[HANDWRITTEN: vacuum or atmos.ic press. in this compartment]
[HANDWRITTEN: electronic valve]
[HANDWRITTEN: pellets in vents]
[HANDWRITTEN: charge up to 5 thous and to thirty thousand p.s.i. 4 times comp. = explosion]
[HANDWRITTEN: stanchion in center of saucer]
[HANDWRITTEN: stanchion in center of saucers. P.S. looks as tho jet can swing around to any angle]

This jet is loaded with capsules by air door traps and the capsule containing the gasolene is put into a pressure of say 10,000 lbs p.s.i. the capsule is busted and out comes the gasolene in that high press. of air or something else to take place of air two electrodes set it off the capsule falls between the ends of the electrodes every time the charge leaving by the opening of the electronic valves goes thro the vacuum chamber and hits the air press. chamber the air in chamber is the bullett at just the right split sec. the elect muzzle plug controlled by electronics is opened and the recoil when all is timed O.K sends saucer at good speed.

PAGE 130

letter

A handwritten letter from Lewis A. Ward to an unnamed recipient at a head office, expressing concerns about security in Washington and requesting that future correspondence be sent in plain envelopes.

So I guess this is all for now and I will write you again as soon as I learn anything worth while
Yours Truly
Lewis A Ward
336 Bird st.
Yuba City
Calif.

P.S.
I have been in contact with the Buffalo Office and they can tell you more - so I decided to send this direct to you to the head office so excuse the office with Buffalo on this letter as I deem it important enough to go direct to you
If you write me do not forget to use perfectly plain envelope - no markings on it - just in case.
I am putting this in your hands because I do not know who is a Comnie in Washington and who is not I leave that to you and I know you will not give me away.

PAGE 131

letter

A handwritten letter from an individual expressing concern about sharing information provided by a person named Ubalsky regarding Russian military capabilities, atomic bombs, and drawings of flying saucers.

I am nervous over this and if this brings the dope he gave me - well if it ever got out I am a dead duck sure as hell but the U.S.A. first and myself well I don't amount to much any how. Ubalsky said another party will contact me if he don't in due time not any particular date. He said Russia is very well prepared for war and will make damn short work of Europe and England, Spain, France & India, Japan & Philippines, and he said it will be soon and when Russia starts it will make Hitlers blitz look like a lot of school kids he says he thinks Russia has 350 atomic bombs. If you want any plainer drawings of them saucers - yes I can draw plainer lines of course but the Air tech. engineers will dope it out - you see I am no good on electronic gadgets as required on this saucer but that is a good description of the drawings I saw.

In case you write to me, put same in plain envelope and address it to me at 336 Bird St. Yuba City, Calif. The jet I pictured is just the same as was on the drawings Ubalsky had. I would like to hear about this as this will give me an idea if this Ubalsky is trying to give me horse feathers - I think tho it is not any baloney - but may be it is.

PAGE 132

letter

A letter from FBI Director John Edgar Hoover to Mr. L. A. Ward, advising him to contact the Secretary of the Army regarding his information on flying saucers, along with an internal FBI note regarding the correspondent's request for anonymity.

April 17, 1950

[HANDWRITTEN: Lewis A.]
Mr. L. A. Ward
336 Bird Street
Yuba City, California
INDEXED - 74
RECORDED - 74 62-83894-226
Dear Mr. Ward:

Your letters of April 8, 1950, have been received and I want to thank you for writing to me as you did.

It is suggested, however, that you may wish to communicate directly with the Secretary of the Army, National Defense Building, Washington, D. C., with reference to the matter you mentioned.

Sincerely yours,

John Edgar Hoover
Director

[HANDWRITTEN: EX. - 62]
[HANDWRITTEN: FLYING SAUCERS]
[HANDWRITTEN: L R A]

NOTE: Correspondent advises he has been in contact with the Buffalo Office and states that he has deemed the information he has furnished with reference to flying saucers important enough to write direct to the Bureau. He advises that he desires us to use a plain envelope in connection with our reply and further stipulates that he does not desire that his name be furnished to "Army Chiefs." He has stated that he "wants to get a lot more information to give to you."

NJC:mcq:bjc
267
[HANDWRITTEN: illegible initials/marks]

PAGE 133

other

This page is a mostly blank document containing only administrative stamps, including a date stamp from the U.S. Department of Justice mail room.

RECORDED - 1V INDEXED - 1V EX - 25 RECEIVED MAIL ROOM U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE APR 10 2:09 PM 51

PAGE 134

letter

A handwritten letter to the FBI regarding an individual named Ubalsky who allegedly provided drawings of a saucer mechanism and discussed a cosmic ray engine.

[HANDWRITTEN: Yuba City Apr 2 - 1958]
Federal Bureau Investigation
Washington
D.C.
[HANDWRITTEN: Flying Saucers]
Gentlemen:
I saw Ubalsky last Saturday in Willits, before he got on the bus to go to Eureka. I went to Willits for the mail for my son-in-law.
In our talk he said well if there is anything in the drawings of the mechanism of the saucer that will help you along on your cosmic ray engine use it - here are the drawings look them over and if you can find anything to help you o.k. These drawings are made in Russian I think so I could not read the instructions or lettering but I did see and he explained to me the centrifugal force that pulls the saucer and the inside the saucer I seen the rudders of it [ILLEGIBLE] just how they [ILLEGIBLE]
[HANDWRITTEN: [REDACTED] 4-25-50]
[HANDWRITTEN: [REDACTED]]

PAGE 135

letter

A handwritten letter from an individual expressing fear for their life after sharing drawings of 'saucers' and Russian technical designs, requesting the recipient to contact military officials without exposing the sender to 'commie agents'.

Attached I really do not know our engineers can dope that out so I am sending a set of drawings free hand and these are in detail just exactly like the Russian drawings - so these look a lot better than those I mailed out Sat. and Ubalsky said after I studied them for quite a spell - that he was trusting me - and should I open my mouth or tell any one of the mechanics I saw in them saucers I would be taken care of an damn fast - so thats that. When you get these drawings go to the military officials and don't get me in dutch I know you will not for my life is the price I would pay - sooner or later if the commie agents figured I had give this away and do not have any F.B.I. men tagging me that would look suspicious to the commie agents. I am taking a hell of a chance and I want some more informations get from them and I will pass it along to you as fast as I get it

PAGE 136

diagram

A handwritten document containing a diagram and description of a saucer-shaped craft, including details on its mechanical construction, propulsion, and steering mechanisms.

4
the drawings show the saucer put together like this:-
straight piece circulars between top and bottom of saucer: filled
with ball bearings in a groove top and bottom the center piece
turns but top or bottom does not turn - Top and bottom obey the rudder
the up and down rudders and the sideways rudder.
1. 1. 1. is for the jets to fire out side. from point 2 to point 2 on
a 30 foot diameter saucer is 10 feet making an overall diameter
of 50 feet

[DIAGRAM OF SAUCER WITH LABELS 1, 2, 3 AND DIMENSIONS 10', 30']

drawing 4.
of course it does not look like this drawing for curves and
etc - you know what I mean. all the floor in the saucer
is fastened to the center piece as dotted line shows at 3. 3.
I guess that is so saucer can be maneuvered or something
my wife or son - or son in law - or daughter know nothing
about this - and do not tell them - or there would be hell to pay.
I think the drawings are plain enough this time.

PAGE 137

other

A handwritten note discussing technical design issues with a jet's centrifugal power mechanism, including instructions on adjusting turnbuckles and cable tension, accompanied by a diagram.

[HANDWRITTEN: 3.] where the jets are [REDACTED] in I could not figure it out so will leave that to you the drawings I sent in sat. with the jet are O.K. That is the jet - but some of the centrifugal power mechanism is wrong in design. Ubalsty had two or three sets of drawings and this copy I am sending you are plain and I believe better drawings.

In drawing #2 where turnbuckels are shown in cables - they are shortened or lengthened to suit - like this as the weights fly or pull outward - the weights must pull the cable straight out or up and down - see no beight in the line holding the weights - a line must be straight when engines are in motion and up to speed allowing every thing else is in proportion O.K.

[DIAGRAM OF MECHANICAL COMPONENT]

drawing 3.

PAGE 138

letter

A handwritten postscript from a letter discussing information about Russian submarines, a long-range rocket engine, and a saucer, while expressing a desire to provide this information to the U.S. government in exchange for compensation.

P.S.
I think I can get some information on the Russian submarine and what makes them go so deep down. Ubalsky says he is sure our navy cannot locate them as they got dummies they put out some how in the water and can fool anyone with the dummies.
He said they were making a long range rocket and putting this engine it but that the saucer goes as fast as the rocket will. I was going to patent this engine even if I did get it from Ubalsky - I placed my self in great danger to get it - and am in danger yet if anyone gives me away. But give it to the U.S.A. quick and the U.S.A. can give me something for my efforts, I do not think the U.S.A. will turn me down - do you? and maybe I will ask a favor of the F.B.I. - who knows.

PAGE 139

letter

A handwritten letter from Lewis A. Warell describing details about the construction and operation of 'saucers' as told to him by an individual named Ubolsky, including a sketch of the craft.

[HANDWRITTEN: 5] I do not believe [REDACTED] is "horse feathers" [REDACTED] so much as I did in the drawings sent you sat. Ubolsky said on the snow with runners on this saucer like a sled centrifugal force will pull hers at a hell of speed. The jets are used on take off there is wheels on the saucer there are 3 wheels they are pulled up into places in the saucer from the inside and some how or other a piece covers the spot on the outside the drawing shows that but I cannot figure out how it is done from the inside of the saucer. Now I believe this is all the dope I can give you on them. Ubolsky said the big saucers are oblong fore and aft but round in the middle - just as the round saucers are something like this. you know what I mean only I cannot draw it.

[DIAGRAM OF A SAUCER-SHAPED OBJECT]

I will mail this from Ukiah monday 10th 1950 and trust you will put this into the right hands
Yours Truly
Lewis A Warell
236 Bird st
Yuba city calif

PAGE 140

diagram

A hand-drawn technical diagram labeled 'Drawing #1' showing mechanical components, with handwritten notes explaining the omission of equalizers for clarity.

[HANDWRITTEN: Drawing #1]

[HANDWRITTEN: This drawing has no equalizers on I left them off at /+/ so as it will look plain]
[HANDWRITTEN: The equalizers are shown in drawing #2]

PAGE 141

diagram

A technical diagram labeled 'drawing #7' depicting a mechanical assembly involving cables, turnbuckles, a shaft, and a thrust bar, with various handwritten annotations describing the movement and components of the mechanism.

[HANDWRITTEN: cable anchor] [HANDWRITTEN: Turnbuckle] [HANDWRITTEN: cable anchor] [HANDWRITTEN: cable] [HANDWRITTEN: does not revolve with shaft] [HANDWRITTEN: does not revolve with shaft] [HANDWRITTEN: floor] [HANDWRITTEN: thrust spring] [HANDWRITTEN: revolves with shaft on sliding keys & ways] [HANDWRITTEN: Key ways & Keys] [HANDWRITTEN: ball bearings] [HANDWRITTEN: Key ways & Keys] [HANDWRITTEN: does not revolve with shaft] [HANDWRITTEN: This thrust bar cannot revolve it is shown bolted to floor but can slide back and ahead with thrust.] [HANDWRITTEN: cable anchor] [HANDWRITTEN: in turnbuckle] [HANDWRITTEN: cable anchor] [HANDWRITTEN: cable] [HANDWRITTEN: Turnbuckle] [HANDWRITTEN: drawing #7] [HANDWRITTEN: La ward] [HANDWRITTEN: floor]

PAGE 142

diagram

A technical diagram labeled 'Drawing 2' depicting mechanical components including shafts, bearings, engines, and rudders, with extensive handwritten annotations describing the movement and function of the parts.

[HANDWRITTEN: Drawing 2] [HANDWRITTEN: just a rest bearing for shaft the shaft does not turn in this bearing - just slides a little] [HANDWRITTEN: thrust bearing] [HANDWRITTEN: gear tongue] [HANDWRITTEN: turnbuckle] [HANDWRITTEN: cable] [HANDWRITTEN: ball bearing] [HANDWRITTEN: weights mercury filled] [HANDWRITTEN: this slides up and down shaft on sliding keys in ways in shaft and revolves with shaft] [HANDWRITTEN: this does not revolve with shaft] [HANDWRITTEN: spring] [HANDWRITTEN: thrust plate does not revolve with shaft] [HANDWRITTEN: collar revolves with shaft] [HANDWRITTEN: ball bearing] [HANDWRITTEN: Rudder] [HANDWRITTEN: equalizers] [HANDWRITTEN: rest bearing] [HANDWRITTEN: Rudder horizontal] [HANDWRITTEN: rudder vertical] [HANDWRITTEN: engines] [HANDWRITTEN: engines] [HANDWRITTEN: cable] [HANDWRITTEN: general D.C. electric] [HANDWRITTEN: cable] [HANDWRITTEN: bearing] [HANDWRITTEN: center stanchion] [HANDWRITTEN: ball bearings to turn on stanchion] [HANDWRITTEN: spring] [HANDWRITTEN: ball bearing] [HANDWRITTEN: bearing] [HANDWRITTEN: cable] [HANDWRITTEN: turnbuckles] [HANDWRITTEN: ball bearing] [HANDWRITTEN: gear tongue] [HANDWRITTEN: thrust bearing] [HANDWRITTEN: equalizers] [HANDWRITTEN: just a rest bearing for shaft shaft does not turn in this bearing just slides a little] [HANDWRITTEN: Rudder] [HANDWRITTEN: Drawing 2]

PAGE 143

other

This is an image of a registered envelope sent via air mail and special delivery from L. A. Ward in Yuba City, California, to the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Washington, D.C.

[HANDWRITTEN: from] L. a Ward
336 Bird st
Yuba City
Calif

Federal Bureau Investigation

REGISTERED
4246

[HANDWRITTEN: over 4/12/3]

Washington
D.C.

VIA AIR MAIL

Special Delivery

Special Delivery

PAGE 144

other

The back of an envelope showing postmarks from Ukiah, California, and Washington, D.C., dated April 10 and 11, 1950.

UKIAH APR 10 1950 CALIF

WASHING
APR
11
1950
R G DIV.

WASHINGTON, D. C.
APR
11
3PM
1950
SPEC. DEL.

UKIAH APR 10 1950 CALIF

PAGE 145

memo

An FBI memo directing the San Francisco office to contact Lewis A. Ward regarding his claims about 'flying saucers' and 'Russian drawings', while clarifying that the FBI is not investigating UFO matters.

SAC, San Francisco April 25, 1950
Director, FBI
LEWIS A. WARD
336 Bird Street
Yuba City, California
[HANDWRITTEN: RESEARCH] 62-83874-227 [HANDWRITTEN: L. A. WARD]

By letter dated April 9, 1950, captioned individual wrote to the Bureau with reference to matters pertaining to "flying saucers." A photostatic copy of his communication is enclosed. It is noted that correspondent has referred to his contact with an individual named Ubalsky and reference is made to "Russian drawings."

It is desired that you have an agent of your office contact correspondent to secure any data which may be of interest to the Bureau. It should be kept in mind, however, that the FBI is not conducting an investigation with reference to "flying saucer matters" and the correspondent should be advised that he may wish to communicate with the Secretary of the Air Force, National Defense Building, The Pentagon, Washington 25, D. C.

Please furnish me all information concerning the handling of this matter.

Enclosure

NOTE: Correspondent advised that he has previously furnished data to the Bureau. It is believed this communication was referred to the Army Air Force. He has advised in his letter of April 9, that some drawings pertaining to flying saucers were executed in what he believes to be the Russian language, and it is deemed advisable to have him personally contacted to discourage further correspondence and to obtain any information he might have in his possession pertaining to matters which may be in the scope of our activities.

NJC:lch:mms
Follow-up made 5-24-50 [HANDWRITTEN: 6-2-50 W H] [HANDWRITTEN: Follow up Reced 7-10-50 PH] [HANDWRITTEN: mnd] [HANDWRITTEN: 1932]
[HANDWRITTEN: 27 MAY 4 1950] MAILED 10 APR 25 1950 COMM-FBI

PAGE 146

report

This is an intelligence report from the U.S. Navy regarding sightings of unidentified airborne objects near Kodiak, Alaska, on January 22 and 23, 1950, including various witness statements and radar data.

[HANDWRITTEN: File in Flying Discs]

INTELLIGENCE REPORT

Serial No. 4-50 at Kodiak, Alaska Date 10 Feb. 1950

From DIC/17ND

Reference

Source OFFICIAL - U. S. Navy Evaluation A-2

Subject Unidentified Phenomena in vicinity of Kodiak Alaska

BRIEF: A report of sightings of unidentified airborne objects, by various naval personnel, on 22 and 23 January 1950, in the vicinity of Kodiak, Alaska is contained herein.

NOTE: (1) This information is as of 23 January 1950
(2) IFI makes no provision for reporting phenomena of this nature

ENCL: (1) Completed CINCPAC form containing information given by Lt. Smith, USN
(2) Completed CINCPAC form containing information given by MORGAN, M and CARVER, EMC, USN
(3) Sketch of radar interference characteristics experienced by Lt. Smith, USN
(4) Completed CINCPAC form containing information given by Lt. Barco, USN
(5) Track chart of aircraft in which Lt. Barco, USN embarked 23 January 1950
(6) Statements of MORGAN M1 and CARVER EMC, USN
(7) Statement of Lt. Barco
(8) Winds aloft and balloon release data

1. Enclosures (1), (2), and (4) are completed forms suggested by Commander in Chief, Alaskan Command, Fort Richardson, Alaska for the reporting of sightings of unidentified objects. Enclosure (3) is a sketch of radar interference experienced in aircraft piloted by Lt. Smith. Enclosure (5) is a track chart of aircraft in which Lt. Barco was embarked when he sighted unidentified object. Enclosure (6) contains statements by MORGAN, MO, USN and CARVER, M1, USN relative to their sighting. Enclosure (7) is a copy of Lt. Barco's statement and enclosure (8) is a summary of weather and balloon release information.

[HANDWRITTEN: Declassified by NIS letter 9/20/77 concerning regdat of BRUCE S. MACCABEE 10/3/77]

THIS REPORT CONSISTS OF THREE PAGES

[HANDWRITTEN: Flying Discs]

[HANDWRITTEN: G.L.R.]

INDEXED - 74

[HANDWRITTEN: 83894-228]

NOT RECORDED
MAY 9 1950

PAGE 147

memo

This document is a summary of reports regarding unidentified phenomena observed near Kodiak, Alaska, in January 1950, involving radar contacts and visual sightings by U.S. Navy personnel.

CONFIDENTIAL
DIC/17:D No. 4-50 10 February 1950
Subj: Unidentified Phenomena

2. A summary of the information contained in enclosure (1) through (8) follows:

a. At 220240W January LT Smith, USN, patrol plane commander of P2V3 No. 4 of Patrol Squadron One reported an unidentified radar contact 20 miles north of the Naval Air Station, Kodiak, Alaska. When this contact was first made, LT Smith was flying the Kodiak Security Patrol. At 0248W, 8 minutes later a radar contact was made on an object 10 miles southeast of NAS Kodiak. Lt. Smith checked with the control tower to determine known traffic in the area, and was informed that there was none. During this period the radar operator, GASKEY ALC, USN reported intermittent radar interference of a type he had never before experienced. (See enclosure (3)). Contact was lost at this time, but intermittent interference continued.

b. At some time between 0200 and 0300W, MORGAN EMC, USN was standing watch on board the USS TILLAMOOK (ATA 192), which was anchored in the vicinity of buoy 19 in the main ship channel. Morgan reported sighting a "very fast moving red glow light, which appeared to be of exhaust nature, seemed to come from the southeast, moved clockwise in a large circle in the direction of, and around Kodiak and returned out in a generally southeast direction." Morgan called Carver CL, USN, also on watch, to observe this object, and they both witnessed the return flight. The object was in sight for an estimated 30 seconds. No odor or sound was detected, and the object was described to have the appearance of a ball of fire about one foot in diameter.

c. At 220440W, conducting routine Kodiak security patrol, Lt Smith reported a visual sighting of an unidentified airborne object at a radar range of 5 miles, on the starboard bow. This object showed indications of great speed on the radar scope. (The trailing edge of the blip gave a tail like indication.) At this time Lt Smith called the attention of all crew members to the object. An estimated ten seconds later, the object was directly overhead, indicating a speed of about 1800 MPH. Smith climbed to intercept, and attempted to circle to keep the object in sight. He was unable to do this, as the object was too highly maneuverable. Subsequently the object appeared to be opening the range, and Smith attempted to close the range. The object was observed to open out somewhat, then to turn to the left and come up on Smith's quarter. Smith considered this to be a highly threatening gesture, and turned out all lights in the aircraft. Four minutes later the object disappeared from view in a southeasterly direction.

d. At 230435W, the day following Lt Smith's sighting, Lt Causer and Lt Barco of Patrol Squadron One were conducting the Kodiak Security Patrol, and sighted an unidentified object. At the time of the sighting the aircraft in which these officers were embarked was approximately 62 miles south of NAS Kodiak. The object appeared to be on an ascending westerly course, and was in sight for ten minutes. During this period the object was observed by Lieutenants Causer and Barco, and PAULSON, DL, plane captain. At no time was radar contact made on the object. Lt Causer was unable to close the object at 170 knots.

2
CONFIDENTIAL

PAGE 148

memo

This memo details witness descriptions of unidentified aerial phenomena observed in January 1950 and notes that Navy Weather Central records do not support the theory that the objects were weather balloons.

CONFIDENTIAL
DIC/17TD Serial No. A-50 10 February 1950
Subj: Unidentified Phenomena

(e) The objects sighted have been described as follows:

(1) To Lt Smith and crew it appeared as two orange lights rotating about a common center, "like two jet aircraft making slow rolls in tight formation". It had a wide speed range.

(2) To Morgan, EMC, and Carver, UL it appeared as a reddish orange ball of fire about one foot in diameter, travelling at a high rate of speed.

(3) To Lt Causer, Lt Barco, and Paulson, AD1, it appeared as a pulsating orange yellow projectile shaped flame, with regular period of pulsation on 3 to 5 seconds, off 3 to 5 seconds. Later, as the object increased the range the pulsations appeared to increase to on 7 to 8 seconds and off 7 to 8 seconds.

3. A check with the Navy Weather Central, Kodiak, Alaska revealed that balloons were released at the following times:

22 January - 0445 and 2200 (approximately)
23 January - 0400 (approximately)

4. On 23 January winds aloft at 1000 feet were reported at 0400W as from 310 T at 36 knots, and at 2000 feet from 240 T at 37 knots, while the object was reported to be on an ascending - westerly course.

COMMENT: In view of the fact that no weather balloons were known to have been released within a reasonable time before the sightings, it appears that the object or objects were not balloons. If not balloons the objects must be regarded as phenomena (possibly meteorites), the exact nature of which could not be determined by this office.

CONFIDENTIAL

PAGE 149

memo

This FBI memorandum from the New Orleans SAC office reports that Michael Halfery sold photographs of 'flying saucers' and a 'man from Mars' to John R. Esposito, who turned them over to the Army's CID. A handwritten note indicates the Air Force does not consider such reports worthy of investigation.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO: [REDACTED] Director, FBI
FROM: SAC, New Orleans
SUBJECT: MICHAEL HALFERY
FLYING DISCS
[HANDWRITTEN: afm eft]
DATE: May 31, 1950

On May 24, 1950, this office received from Major MERLE L. MENNIE, Intelligence and Security Officer, New Orleans Port of Embarkation, a report dealing with MICHAEL HALFERY of 2453 Urquhart Street, New Orleans, Louisiana. A copy of this report is attached to this letter for your information.

The report states that HALFERY sold for $1.00 two photographs to one JOHN R. ESPOSITO, 615 Piety Street, New Orleans, who in turn gave the photographs to an agent of CID, New Orleans Port of Embarkation. These photographs were of flying saucers and a man from Mars in the custody of two U. S. Army Military Policemen. A copy of one negative and a copy of one positive of these photographs are also enclosed herewith.

Enclosures (3)

DHB:mas
66-1199
[HANDWRITTEN: ENCLOSURE ATTACHED EX-32 Matter discussed with Col. Bordon, OSI. Advised that hundreds of such matters are received by A.F. They do not consider them worthy of investigation. 6-21-50 AWB.]

RECORDED: 5 62-83894-229
JUN 8 1950
INDEXED 5
[HANDWRITTEN: EX-32]
57 JUN 22 1950
361

PAGE 150

cover-page

This is a blank cover page for a file, containing only a handwritten case number.

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-229]

PAGE 151

report

This document records the receipt of a photostat copy of a document by the Intelligence & Security Branch in New Orleans, involving agents and individuals in May 1950.

Case # T4-15-0; 117th CIC Det FO, NOPE, New Orleans, La.
Positive Photostat copy of document turned in to NOPE CID (Agent John F. Quinn) by John R. Espesite, 615 Piety Street, New Orleans, La., who reported purchase of document from Michael HALFERY, 2453 Urquhart St, New Orleans, La. Date 22 May 1950
Received from Agent John F. Quinn, NOPE CID, by Louis Robillia, Jr., Criminal Investigator, Intelligence & Security Branch, NOPE; Date 23 May 1950
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-229]

PAGE 152

memo

This page lists enclosures being sent to the FBI Bureau, including a report on Michael Halfery and photographs of a flying saucer and a man from Mars.

ENCLOSURES TO THE BUREAU

Copy of report by Intelligence Branch, New Orleans
Port of Embarkation, re MICHAEL HALFERY.

One negative copy and one positive copy of photographs
of flying saucer and man from Mars in custody of two MP's.

N.O. File 66-1199

PAGE 153

form

This document is a summary of information regarding a photograph of alleged 'flying saucers' and a 'man from Mars' turned over to Agent John F. Quinn by John R. Esposito, who purchased it from Michael Halfery.

CONFIDENTIAL
SUMMARY OF INFORMATION
DATE: 23 May 1950
PREPARING OFFICE: Intelligence Branch, New Orleans Port of Embarkation, New Orleans 12, La.
SUBJECT: HALFERY, Michael, 2453 Urquhart Street, New Orleans, La. CASE NO. T4-15-0

SUMMARY OF INFORMATION
At about 1430 hours, 22 May 1950, the attached (See Inclosure 1) "photograph" was turned over to Agent John F. Quinn, CID, New Orleans Port of Embarkation. The individual who turned this material over to Quinn told him that he had purchased the "photograph" from one Michael HALFERY, 2453 Urquhart Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, for the sum of $1.00. He stated that he thought this material "should be placed in the hands of the Government", as it was supposed to be pictures of "flying saucers" and "a man from Mars in the United States". The "man from Mars" was pictured as being in the custody of two military policemen. (B-2)

The individual turning this material over to Quinn gave his name as John R. Esposito, 615 Piety Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, and his telephone as Bywater 5190. (B-3)

According to Esposito, HALFERY is alleged to have served five (5) years in the Federal penitentiary at Leavenworth, Kansas. (B-3)

No interrogation of Esposito was conducted by Agent Quinn. (B-2)

1 Incl:
Photo. (Original & Cy)

COMMENT: A literal translation of the caption under the alleged photographs stated that a special infra-red machine was used to take these photographs because the "flying saucers" were invisible to the human eye. Also, the sound emitted by the two pictured "saucers" was of such high frequency as to be above frequencies audible to the human ear. The caption continues by stating that an accident occurred to one of the "saucers" and the individual shown in custody of United States Military Police in the right hand photograph was a "Mr. X", a member of the crew of one of these "flying saucers". The location of both photographs was stated to be Weisbaden, Germany.

DECLASSIFIED
Authority: NND 90986

SEARCHED [HANDWRITTEN: ep] INDEXED
SERIALIZED [HANDWRITTEN: /] FILED
MAY 24 1950
FBI NEW ORLEANS

DISTRIBUTION: [REDACTED] (1) FBI, NOLA (2) (Including original) [REDACTED] 117th CIC Det (1) DIO, NOLA (1) La Mil Dist (2) CO, NOPB (1) OBI, NOLA (1) File (1)
WD AGO FORM 1 JUN 47 568 U. S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 16-53306-1 CONFIDENTIAL

PAGE 154

photograph

A German-language caption accompanying two photographs: one showing UFOs over a church in Wiesbaden, and another showing two soldiers escorting an alien figure, allegedly from a crashed saucer.

Das Infra-Rot-Kathodenstrahlrohr offenbart mit Bildaufnahmegerät und Spezialfilm Vorgänge, die dem menschlichen Auge unsichtbar bleiben müssen. Das beweist unsere linke Abbildung: Zwei „fliegende Untertassen“ kreisten — von den Wiesbadenern unbemerkt — um die Marktkirche. Die Geräusche der sausenden Scheiben waren nicht bemerkbar, da Ultra-Kurzschallwellen bekanntlich vom menschlichen Gehör nicht aufgenommen werden. Unser rechtes Bild zeigt erstmalig Mister X, ein Besatzungsmitglied der „fliegenden Untertasse“, die am Fuße des Bleidenstadter Kopfes zerschellt ist (3 Translag/USA-Fotos)

PAGE 155

photograph

A photograph with a caption in German describing two flying saucers circling a church in Wiesbaden and a picture of an alien crew member from a crashed saucer.

Das Infra-Rot-Kathodenstrahlrohr offenbart mit Bildaufnahmegerät und Spezialfilm Vorgänge, die dem menschlichen Auge unsichtbar bleiben müssen. Das beweist unsere linke Abbildung: Zwei „fliegende Untertassen“ kreisten — von den Wiesbadenern unbemerkt — um die Marktkirche. Die Geräusche der sausenden Scheiben waren nicht bemerkbar, da Ultra-Kurzschallwellen bekanntlich vom menschlichen Gehör nicht aufgenommen werden. Unser rechtes Bild zeigt erstmalig Mister X, ein Besatzungsmitglied der „fliegenden Untertasse“, die am Fuße des Bleidenstadter Kopfes zerschellt ist (3 Translag/USA-Fotos)

PAGE 156

report

This document provides a historical overview of unidentified aerial phenomena, referencing biblical accounts and modern sightings, specifically focusing on the 'ghost rockets' reported in Sweden in 1946.

[HANDWRITTEN: D. 3 Briefing Mr. Stites 19 May 50]
[HANDWRITTEN: Recd from G-3 5-22-50 CWJ]
[HANDWRITTEN: Main]
CONFIDENTIAL
UNIDENTIFIED AERIAL PHENOMENA
(Flying Saucers)

Reports of strange and mysterious objects seen in the sky over most of the countries of the world during the past five years have created quite a stir in the public press. The sighting of such objects has not been confined to the last five years. History records many instances of man's inability to explain what he saw or thought he saw. The prophet Ezekiel in the 6th century BC reported "a whirl wind came out of the north, a great cloud, and a fire unfolding itself, and a brightness was about it." He then saw "a wheel in the middle of a wheel" and reported "when they went, they went up on their four sides and they turned not when they went". (Ezekiel 1:16)

In the past, these phenomena have usually been attributed to supernatural causes, and in more recent years to natural phenomena. However, the introduction of the atomic bomb and guided missiles in World War II has so caught the public imagination with their potentialities, actual and fanciful, that we now find the phenomena variously attributed to space ships from other planets and US or Soviet experiments with new and wonderful weapons.

The present flury of flying saucers, ghost rockets, etc., began in mid-1946 in Sweden. Hundreds of people reported seeing strange objects flying over the country. Newspapers speculated that they were Soviet guided missiles being tested over the Baltic Sea, either from the former German experimental station at Peenemunde, or from Dago Island off the Estonian Coast. The fact that an experimental V-2 fired by the Germans from Peenemunde had landed in Sweden in 1944 lent credence to their speculation. The Swedish defence staff made an investigation and may have deliberately allowed the public to believe this theory for some time for political reasons. Careful investigation by the US Ma and by an [HANDWRITTEN: [ILLEGIBLE] mosetey] [HANDWRITTEN: [ILLEGIBLE]]

1
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-]
[HANDWRITTEN: 37]
52 JUN 15 1950
CONFIDENTIAL

PAGE 157

report

This document discusses the history of aerial phenomena reports, starting with Swedish investigations in 1947, moving to US reports, and listing common theories used to explain the sightings.

CONFIDENTIAL

independent British team, failed to uncover any evidence to support the theory of Soviet missiles. By 1947 the thing had snowballed to such an extent that the Swedish Government finally issued a report identifying most of the incidents with natural phenomena and denying that any foreign power was involved. During this period sightings were reported from the remaining Scandanavian countries and most of Western Europe.

Incidents were first reported over the US in 1947 and are still continuing. Much space in the press has been given to these reports and various semi-official opinions have been quoted. For example, on 16 May, Captain Eddie Rickenbacker was quoted as saying "There must be something to them, for too many reliable persons have made reports on them. I am duty bound not to say what I know about them - or what I don't know about them. However, if they do exist, you can rest assured that they are ours." The USAF for a long time conducted a thorough investigation of each of the hundreds of incidents involved. It found that approximately 75% of the reports could definitely be related to known causes such as meteorological balloons, aircraft, meteors and other common phenomena. A public statement was issued debunking the entire existence of flying disks or saucers. This did little to cut down the flood of reports. It only resulted in convincing a large number of people that the National Military Establishment was trying to cover up our own experiments with new weapons.

Many theories have been advanced to explain these reports of aerial phenomena over the US. These include:

1. Space ships from other planets
2. Soviet guided missiles or aircraft-, probably atomic-powered.
3. US experiments with new weapons
4. Natural phenomena
5. Mass hysteria, or other psychological causes.

2

CONFIDENTIAL

PAGE 158

report

This page discusses the unlikelihood of extraterrestrial origins for UFOs, denies Soviet possession of advanced disc-shaped aircraft, and attributes UFO sightings to US meteorological balloons and mass public hysteria.

CONFIDENTIAL

While it is not possible to categorically rule out theory No. 1 it is very easy to do so on reasonable grounds. The existence of any form of life on other planets is extremely tenuous and debatable. The level of technical achievement required to launch piloted or pilotless missiles from one planet to another and return is several orders of magnitude byond that existing on the earth today and probably would have resulted in some firm contact prior to this, either through deliberate landings or unscheduled crashes. (Even these have been reported in the press - complete with descriptions of men only 18 inches tall! Such reports are sheer fabrication.)

There is absolutely no evidence that the Soviet Union possess either guided missiles or disc shaped aircraft capable of making round trip flights to the US, and the use of atomic energy for the propulsion of any aerial vehicle is still at least several years in the future. Even if the Soviets are that far ahead of us in such a program, there is no reason to expect the airplanes would be other than of conventional design. An atomic power plant, alone, would be sufficiently radical, without also designing a completely new vehicle to carry it.

The US is not experimenting with any new weapon that could reasonably be mistaken by identified as a flying disc or saucer. The US is launching large numbers of meteorological and cosmic ray balloons for experimental purposes and a fair number of the reports can be definitely attributed to sightings of these objects or reflections of other shiny objects such as aircraft.

The continued reporting of aerial phenomena must then be attributed to a mass hysteria caused by the present tenseness in the international situation; the public belief in the ability of science to accomplish miracles; and to statements in the press by "name" individuals hinting at

3

CONFIDENTIAL

PAGE 159

memo

This page discusses how sensationalized media reporting, specifically referencing statements attributed to Rickenbacker, contributes to the public's tendency to label unidentified aerial objects as "flying saucers," thereby perpetuating a cycle of such reports.

CONFIDENTIAL

the existence of some new weapon. Such statements, of the type attributed to Rickenbacker, often solicited in the most sensation form by news reporters in order to make a good story, make people watch the sky and any object they cannot immediately recognize is called a "flying saucer."

This helps to maintain the "chain reaction" of such reports.

4

CONFIDENTIAL

PAGE 160

letter

A letter from DeWayne B. Johnson at the University of California to J. Edgar Hoover inquiring about the existence of official censorship or a 'played down' attitude regarding the flying saucer phenomenon.

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA

LOS ANGELES 24, CALIFORNIA
Graduate Department of Journalism June 2, 1950

Mr. J. Edgar Hoover, director
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Pennsylvania Avenue at 9th, NW
Washington, D.C.

Dear Mr. Hoover,

I am currently engaged in research for a graduate
dissertation which will attempt to analyze the socio-
logical and psychological implications of the flying
saucer phenomenon.

In the course of my research I am giving extensive
consideration of the several magazine articles and the
one book which have already been written on the subject.
The book, in particular, and the magazine articles in
general, hint at official restraints which have hampered
the authors in their research. So far I know none of
those research projects attempted to probe as deeply into
the background of the phenomena as I am, yet I have en-
countered no such "official censorship" as they mention.
In fact I have been surprised at the openness with which
some people have replied to my queries.

I believe the fact that I have encountered no restric-
tions is significant when I attempt to analyze my total
findings. It raises the question as to whether those
previously mentioned authors aren't trying hard to sell
something which really isn't there to sell.

Is there any reason why the flying saucer situation
should be "played down?" Is there any official attitude
toward the matter?

I wish to thank you in advance for your interest and
help. You may be assured that I will appreciate any infor-
mation you may be able to give me.

Sincerely yours,
[HANDWRITTEN: DeWayne B. Johnson]
DeWayne B. Johnson

[HANDWRITTEN: mml
ack 6-8-50
ara]

RECORDED-5
EX-32
62-83894-230
JUN 19 1950

PAGE 161

PAGE 162

letter

A letter from FBI Director John Edgar Hoover to DeWayne B. Johnson, informing him that the FBI has no information regarding his inquiry and suggesting he contact the Secretary of Defense instead.

June 8, 1950

[HANDWRITTEN: 23]

[HANDWRITTEN: RECORDED - 5]

62-83894-230

[HANDWRITTEN: EX-32]

Mr. DeWayne B. Johnson
Graduate Department of Journalism
University of California
Los Angeles 24, California

Dear Mr. Johnson:

Your letter dated June 2, 1950, has been received, and I appreciate the interest which prompted your communication.

While I would like to be of service, this Bureau has no information available for distribution with regard to the subject of your letter, and I suggest that you may wish to direct your inquiry to the Secretary of Defense, National Defense Building, Washington, D. C.

Sincerely yours,

John Edgar Hoover
Director

[HANDWRITTEN: ARA:mus]

[HANDWRITTEN: 36/]

56 JUN 22 1950

[STAMP: JUN 9 1950]

[STAMP: U S DEPT OF JUSTICE FBI RECEIVED READING ROOM JUN 8 7 42 PM '50]

PAGE 163

memo

This FBI memorandum details an interview with Lewis A. Ward regarding his claims about 'flying saucers,' noting that the Bureau lacks jurisdiction and that associates describe him as prone to 'weird imaginings.'

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : Director, FBI DATE: June 15, 1950
FROM : SAC, San Francisco
SUBJECT: LEWIS A. WARD
336 Bird Street
Yuba City, California
RESEARCH

Rebulet 6-5-50.

Subject was located 6-13-50 residing at 78 South Tenth Street, San Jose, California. He was interviewed by SA CHARLES J. PRELSNIK of this Office, who carefully explained the jurisdiction of the FBI to him and questioned him relative to any information he might have which would be of interest to this Bureau.

Mr. WARD had nothing to add to his previous story as submitted by letter to the Bureau on 4-9-50. He was advised that any information relative to "flying saucers" did not come within the jurisdiction of this Bureau and that he could communicate such information to the Secretary of the Air Force, National Defense Building, The Pentagon, Washington 25, D. C.

For the further information of the Bureau, Mr. R. E. MC CARTHY, Secretary, Local 39, International Union of Stationary Engineers, 805 East Weber Street, was contacted in an effort to locate Mr. WARD. Mr. MC CARTHY described WARD as being "odd" but would not elaborate on this statement.

It was also ascertained from Mr. R. A. CHRISTIANSEN, Business Representative of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 39, 57 East Santa Clara Street, San Jose, California, through whom WARD was located, that WARD was given to weird imaginings. Mr. CHRISTIANSEN stated that he would not exactly describe WARD as being insane but stated that he was getting along in years and was prone to exaggerate on queer imaginings.

It was the observation of the interviewing agent that Mr. WARD is abnormal mentally.

CJP:eu
94-492
[HANDWRITTEN: Follow up filed 7-10-50]
RECORDED - 71
INDEXED - 71
EX-55
162-83894-231
JUN 10 1950
[HANDWRITTEN: Work cont. inde pg cd 7-19-50 mem]

PAGE 164

memo

This is an FBI memorandum from the Albuquerque SAC to the Director regarding the transmission of a summary of aerial phenomena observations in New Mexico from December 1948 to May 1950, prepared by the 17th District of Special Investigations at Kirtland Air Force Base.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO: DIRECTOR, FBI
FROM: SAC, ALBUQUERQUE
DATE: 7/19/50
SUBJECT: SUMMARY OF AERIAL PHENOMENA IN
NEW MEXICO
INFORMATION CONCERNING [HANDWRITTEN: Flying Discs]

There is being transmitted herewith a Summary of Observations of Aerial Phenomena in New Mexico from December 1948 to May 25, 1950. This recapitulation of data summarizes previous individual sights that have been reported in this area. The summary was prepared by the Inspector General's Office of the 17th District of Special Investigations, Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. [HANDWRITTEN: (5-1)]

The above information is being submitted for the completion of the Bureau's files.

pw:ush
Encls.

[HANDWRITTEN: 5/22/85 Classified by SPG Bja/tcy Declassify on: OADR]

[HANDWRITTEN: filed with original]

[HANDWRITTEN: S-1 = Air Force]

[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-]
NOT RECORDED
53 JUL 27 1950

[HANDWRITTEN: 55 JUL 21 1950]

[HANDWRITTEN: ORIGINAL COPY FILED IN 62-85557-217]

PAGE 165

memo

This memo from the 17th District Office of Special Investigations reports that an unidentified flying object sighted over Phoenix, Arizona, on June 29, 1950, was identified by 1st Lt. John D. Fink as a balloon with instruments attached.

[HANDWRITTEN: Sanders you asked for this] DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES AIR FORCE WASHINGTON RGC/EJB/bls THE INSPECTOR GENERAL USAF 17TH DISTRICT OFFICE OF SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, NEW MEXICO [HANDWRITTEN: 4-1] File No: 24-8-0 5 July 1950 SUBJECT: UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECT sighted on 29 June 1950 at Phoenix, Arizona SPECIAL INQUIRY [HANDWRITTEN: Recd from O.S.I. 7-14-50 ESS/jo] [HANDWRITTEN: G.I.R. 2] [HANDWRITTEN: Copy] TO: Director of Special Investigations Headquarters, United States Air Force Washington 25, D. C. [HANDWRITTEN: Heinrich] 1. Reference is made to Spot Report TWX from this Headquarters dated 30 June 1950, making reference to an unidentified flying object sighted on 29 June 1950 at Phoenix, Arizona. 2. An interview with 1st Lt. JOHN D. FINK, AO-823052, 93rd Fighter Squadron, Kirtland AFB reveals that on 29 June 1950 at approximately 1840 hours Lt. FINK sighted this object. Lt. FINK climbed to 47,000 while flying an F-86 aircraft and observed that the object was a bright balloon with instruments attached and was floating at an altitude of 50,000 feet. 3. Lt. FINK described the speed of the balloon as being very slow and further described the balloon as being an "inverted tear drop". 4. Inasmuch as the previously unidentified object has been positively identified as a balloon, further investigation will not be conducted in this incident. RICHARD G. COX MAJOR, USAF District Commander [HANDWRITTEN: Flying Discs] [HANDWRITTEN: File in Flying Disc file 62-83894] [HANDWRITTEN: RECORDED 12 JUL 1950] 63 AUG 2 1950 [HANDWRITTEN: CONFIDENTIAL]

PAGE 166

memo

An FBI memorandum reporting a witness account from Douglas Harrison, who observed a cigar-shaped object in the sky on June 25, 1950.

Standard Form No. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO: DIRECTOR, FBI
FROM: SAC, WASHINGTON FIELD
SUBJECT: FLYING DISCS
INTERNAL SECURITY - X

[HANDWRITTEN: Gmo] [HANDWRITTEN: O] [HANDWRITTEN: R]

DATE: June 29, 1950

This is to advise the Bureau that on June 25, 1950, DOUGLAS HARRISON, 2337 Ashmead Place, N.W., telephone, DEcatur 2797, and who is employed at the Hot Shoppe, Connecticut Avenue, N.W., informed that at 9:25 am, that date, while looking out of the window of his residence he saw what he believed to be a flying saucer. He described this object as resembling a cigar, the end of which was tilted down toward the earth and presenting a silver appearance. He estimated the height of this object as from 20 to 25 thousand feet, and stated the size at that distance appeared to be about four inches. HARRISON could furnish no further details other than to state the object appeared to be moving in an easterly direction. He advised that this is the first flying saucer he has ever seen.

The foregoing is being furnished for the information of the Bureau and no action is being taken by this Office.

KTD:bh
100-0

[HANDWRITTEN: le]
RECORDED - 106 [HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-232]
EX-32
JUN 29 1950
[HANDWRITTEN: FIVE] [HANDWRITTEN: Mossburg] [HANDWRITTEN: Hekta]
[HANDWRITTEN: Lotte wfe 7-19-50]

PAGE 167

memo

An FBI memorandum reporting a witness account of a flying saucer sighting by a man named Harrison in Washington, D.C., on June 29, 1950.

Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO: DIRECTOR, FBI
FROM: SAC, WASHINGTON FIELD
DATE: June 29, 1950
SUBJECT: FLYING DISCS
INTERNAL SECURITY - X

This is to advise the Bureau that on June 29, 1950, [REDACTED] HARRISON, 3329 16th St., N.W., telephone [REDACTED], who is employed at the Hot Shoppe, Connecticut Avenue, N.W., informed that at 9:25 A.M. that date, while looking out of the window of his residence he saw what he believed to be a flying saucer. He described this object as a cigar shaped object which was tilted down toward the earth and presenting a silver appearance. He estimated the height of this ob-ject to be from 20 to 25 thousand feet. He stated the size at that distance appeared to be about four inches. HARRISON could furnish no further details to state the object appeared to be moving in an [REDACTED] direction. He advised that this is the first flying saucer he has ever seen.

The foregoing is being furnished for the information of the Bureau and no action is being taken by this office.

[HANDWRITTEN: 65 HS1 834228961 62 HQ 83894 Section 5]

[STAMP: RECEIVED JUL 7 1 57 PM '50 U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE F B I REC'D ESPIONAGE]
[STAMP: RECEIVED JUL 6 10 10 AM '50 F B I INTERNAL SECURITY SN U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE]

PAGE 168

memo

An FBI memo from the Director to the SAC of Washington Field instructing them to forward complaints regarding 'Flying Discs' to the Office of Special Investigations (OSI) of the U.S. Air Force.

[HANDWRITTEN: B/]

SAC, Washington Field                               July 19, 1950
Director, FBI

FLYING DISCS
INTERNAL SECURITY - X

Reurlet 6-29-50.

Attention is directed to existing Bureau instructions wherein
complaints received relating to the captioned matter should be promptly
furnished to a local representative of the Office of Special Investiga-
tions, the Inspector General, U. S. Air Force by your office.

You are instructed to furnish the information contained in
the referenced letter to OSI. In the future, such action should be
taken promptly following the receipt of such information by your office.

62-83894 [HANDWRITTEN: 232]

EHM:EHW
[HANDWRITTEN: EX-43]
[HANDWRITTEN: RECORDED - 92]

[HANDWRITTEN: ABx]
[HANDWRITTEN: EHS]
[HANDWRITTEN: EHM]
[HANDWRITTEN: Dhr]

Tolson
Ladd
Clegg
Glavin
Nichols
Rosen
Tracy
Harbo
Mohr
Tele. Room
Nease
Gandy
[HANDWRITTEN: 44]
[STAMP: MAILED 15 JUL 19 1950 COMM-FBI]
[STAMP: JUL 24 1950]

PAGE 169

memo

An FBI memorandum from the Chicago office reporting a sighting of a large, bright, silvery object by a meteorologist, Tage Stensig, on July 4, 1950, in Downers Grove, Illinois.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : DIRECTOR, FBI DATE: July 11, 1950
FROM : SAC, CHICAGO [HANDWRITTEN: 4-1]
SUBJECT: FLYING DISC

Reference is made to SAC letter #38, series 1949.

Mr. TAGE STENSIG, 4905 Bryan Place, Downers Grove, Illinois, telephone number - Downers Grove 1199 J, telephonically advised SA JOHN E. KEATING at 9:54 PM, July 4, 1950, that at 9:38 PM on July 4, 1950, he observed a large, bright, silvery object moving at an approximate altitude of 10,000 feet, in a north, north-westerly direction over Downers Grove. Mr. STENSIG said that his wife also observed this object. He stated that he estimated the speed of the object at 700 to 800 miles by comparing its rate of movement with that of commercial airplanes.

Mr. STENSIG advised that he is a meteorologist with United Air Lines and the object he observed was not a plane nor was it a fireworks display.

The above is being submitted for your information.

JEK:BJB
100-18999

[HANDWRITTEN: 31] [HANDWRITTEN: SRM] [HANDWRITTEN: WRH]

RECORDED - 129 [HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-233]
INDEXED - 129 JUL 13 1950 37
EX-81
51 JUL 24 1950

PAGE 170

PAGE 171

cover-page

This page is a collection of various FBI date-stamps and routing stamps indicating receipt of a document by different officials and departments in June and July 1950.

RECEIVED-NICHOLS
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U S DEPT OF JUSTICE

CORRELATION-LIAISON
F. B. I.
U. S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 3 9 19 AM '50

[HANDWRITTEN: JUL 30 10 46 AM '50]

JUN 30 3 52 PM '50

JUN 30 3 36 PM '50
RECEIVED-TOLSON
F B I
U S. DEPT OF JUSTICE

JUN 30 1 58 PM '50
U S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
F B I
RECEIVED - DIRECTOR

JUL 10 11 34 AM '50
REC'D ESPIONAGE
F B I
U S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

JUN 30 4 33 PM '50
REC'D BELMONT
F. B. I.
DEPT. OF JUSTICE

PAGE 172

memo

A short administrative memo requesting a correction to a previous document and noting that it is for information only, with a carbon copy notation for Mr. Belmont.

PAGE TWO

THIS OFFICE AND ABOVE FOR YOUR INFO ONLY.

[HANDWRITTEN: MURPHY]

CORRECTION PLS 6TH LINE 7TH WORD SHOULD BE THIRTYFIVE

END

PLS ACK

HOLD PLS

[HANDWRITTEN: cc Mr. Belmont]

PAGE 173

other

This page is a stamp from the FBI Teletype Unit indicating receipt of a document on June 30, 1950.

RECEIVED TELETYPE UNIT
JUN 30 1 31 PM '50
F.B.I. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

PAGE 174

memo

An FBI memorandum from the Chicago SAC office reporting a witness sighting of a cigar-shaped object over the Great Lakes Naval Training Center on July 1, 1950.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : Director, FBI DATE: July 18, 1950
FROM : SAC, Chicago
SUBJECT: FLYING DISCS
[HANDWRITTEN: (b)(7)(D) - INFORMANT]

The following is submitted for information of the Bureau for whatever action it may deem advisable.

On July 1, 1950, [REDACTED], of known reliability, advised that at 1:00 a.m. July 1, 1950, at North Chicago, Illinois, east intersection of 22nd Street and the Chicago, North Shore and Milwaukee Railroad and Chicago Northwestern Railroad tracks, [REDACTED] [REDACTED], he observed one cigar-shaped object, about five feet in appearance from his viewpoint, traveling from northwestern to southeastern direction at an excessive rate of speed over the Great Lakes Naval Training Center, Great Lakes, Illinois. According to the informant, this object appeared almost directly overhead at an altitude which he estimated to be about 15,000 to 20,000 feet, and it remained in sight for about twenty to twenty-five seconds until it disappeared over the horizon.

This informant advised the object did not appear like any falling star or meteor he had ever seen, and that it proceeded in a straight and level flight. The informant continued that the front two-thirds of the object was a constant glow about the coloring of a burning kerosene lamp, and that the rear third was dark. He continued that the object left a bluish-white trail behind it, appearing to be about four inches in width, and about three times the length of the object. The informant advised that there were no wings or other type of support visible to him, and that the propulsion, control and stability were unknown to him. He advised that the speed of this object was much faster than any conventional type of aircraft he had ever seen, although it did not travel as fast as a falling star. He added that there was no sound discernible.

With regard to the informant, it is to be noted that [REDACTED] [REDACTED]

It is to be noted that he advised there were no other witnesses who saw the aforementioned object.

This informant has furnished reliable information to the Chicago Division in the past, is of average intelligence, and considered of good character and reputation.

cc: [REDACTED] [HANDWRITTEN: RECORDED - 118 162-83894-235]
JHS:RMS [HANDWRITTEN: JUL 20 1950]
100-18999 [HANDWRITTEN: 34]

PAGE 175

memo

An FBI memo from the Director to the SAC in Chicago requesting confirmation that information regarding 'FLYING DISCS' was shared with the local OSI office.

[HANDWRITTEN: W]

SAC, CHICAGO
July 28, 1950
Director, FBI

FLYING DISCS
Chicago File 100-18999
Bufile 62-83894

Reurlet July 18, 1950.

You are instructed to advise the Bureau whether the information
contained in your reference letter has been furnished to the local office
of OSI in Chicago, Illinois in accordance with existing Bureau instructions.

RECORDED - 117
62-83894 - [HANDWRITTEN: 235]

EHM: DE

[HANDWRITTEN: initials]
[HANDWRITTEN: initials]
[HANDWRITTEN: initials]
[HANDWRITTEN: initials]
MAILED 10
50 AUG 3 1950
COMM-FBI

PAGE 176

memo

An FBI teletype from the Houston office reporting a flying disc found near Alice, Texas, which was later suspected to be a hoax.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
COMMUNICATIONS SECTION
JUL 4 1950
TELETYPE
FBI HOUSTON 7-4-50 2-35 PM CST
DIRECTOR URGENT
[HANDWRITTEN: M]
FLYING DISC REPORTED TO HAVE BEEN FOUND NEAR ALICE, TEXAS JULY FOURTH
INFORMATION CONCERNING. SAN ANTONIO TELEPHONICALLY ADVISED THIS OFFICE
BUREAU BEING INFORMED THAT SUBJECT DISC DESCRIBED AS APPROXIMATELY
FIVE FEET IN DIAMETER, ELYPTICAL IN SHAPE AND BEARING SERIAL NUMBER
X DASH ONE FOUR SEVEN A AND INSTRUCTIONS QUOTE DO NOT TOUCH
UNQUOTE. RESIDENT AGENT CORPUS CHRISTI STATES THAT LOCAL RADIO REPORTS
THIS DISCOVERY TO BE A HOAX. FURTHER INQUIRY BEING MADE AND BUREAU
WILL BE ADVISED. CAPTAIN O. C. WETZELL, SECURITY OFFICER ELLINGTON
FIELD AIR FORCE ADVISED AND REPORTED HIS OFFICE HAD NO INFORMATION RE
SUBJECT DISC. PRESS INQUIRIES OF THIS OFFICE WILL BE ANSWERED WITH
NO COMMENT UACB.
RECORDED - 118 62-83894-236
LORTON
END AC PLS
441PM OK FBI WASH DC CCW
[HANDWRITTEN: 7-4-50 445PM Press release O.K. Per Mr. Nichols]

PAGE 177

cover-page

This page is a collection of various FBI and Department of Justice date-received stamps.

RECEIVED
JUL 5 1 08 PM '50
SEC'T SPIONAGE
T B T
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED TELETYPE UNIT
JUL 4 4 42 PM '50
F.B.I. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 5 11 08 AM '50

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 5 9 33 AM '50

RECEIVED
JUL 5 1 08 PM '50

RECEIVED - DIRECTOR
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 5 10 30 AM '50

REC'D BELMONT
F.B.I.
DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 5 11 43 AM '50

PAGE 178

transcript

An FBI teletype reporting that a 'flying disc' found near Alice, Texas, was determined to be a practical joke constructed by mechanics at the local airport using airplane wing parts.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNICATIONS SECTION JUL 4 1950 TELETYPE [HANDWRITTEN: checkmark] [HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Tolson] [HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Ladd] [HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Clegg] [HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Glavin] [HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Nichols] [HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Rosen] [HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Tracy] [HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Harbo] [HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Belmont] [HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Mohr] [HANDWRITTEN: Tele. Room] [HANDWRITTEN: Mr. Nease] [HANDWRITTEN: Miss Gandy] FBI HOUSTON 7-4-50 3-50 PM CST ICF DIRECTOR, FBI URGENT [HANDWRITTEN: Monterey] FLYING DISC, REPORTED TO HAVE BEEN FOUND NEAR ALICE, TEXAS JULY FOURTH, INFORMATION CONCERNING. STOKES MCENHEIMER, CHIEF OF POLICE ALUCE, TEXAS ADVISES THAT ON THIS DATE A SMALL ELYPTICAL CONTRAPTION WAS FOUND IN A FIELD ABOUT ONE HUNDRED YARDS NORTHWEST OF MUNICIPAL AIRPORT ALICE, TEXAS. UPON EXAMINATION IT WAS DETERMINED THAT OBJECT WAS CONSTRUCTED BY WELDING A PORTION OF TWO AIRPLANE WINGS TOGETHER. THE CONTRIVANCE WAS FRESHLY PAINTED AND BORE THE MARKINGS DESCRIBED IN REFERENCE TELETYPE, AND HAD NO MOTOR OR MEANS OF PROPULSION. THE CHIEF OF POLICE REMOVED THE OBJECT TO THE POLICE STATION AND UPON INQUIRY DETERMINED THAT IT HAD BEEN CONSTRUCTED BY A GROUP OF MECHANICS AT THE ALICE AIRPORT AS A PRACTICAL JOKE. AIR FORCE OFFICIALS ELLINGTON FIELD ADVISED. NO FURTHER INQUIRES TO BE MADE. LORTON [HANDWRITTEN: Ne] CORRECTION LAST WORD ON LINE TWO IS "ALICE" [HANDWRITTEN: 5-Elton] END ACK 5-54 PM OK FBI WASH DC ED [HANDWRITTEN: cc: Mr. Belmont] RECORDED - 118 62-83894-237 [HANDWRITTEN: JUL 18 1950] 51JUL 241950 [HANDWRITTEN: EXL-94]

PAGE 179

other

This page contains a collection of various FBI date-stamps indicating receipt of a document by different units and individuals on July 5, 1950.

RECEIVED
JUL 5 4 46 PM '50
REC'D ESPIONAGE
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED-LADD
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 5 10 34 AM '50

RECEIVED-NICHOLS
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 5 12 19 PM '50

RECEIVED TELETYPE UNIT I
JUL 5 5 54 PM '50
F.B.I. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED-TOLSON
JUL 5 10 17 AM '50
REC'D BELMONT
F. B. I.
DEPT. OF JUSTICE

PAGE 180

memo

An FBI teletype report regarding a flying disc found in Alice, Texas, on July 4, 1950, which was later reported as a hoax by the local Chief of Police.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNICATIONS SECTION JUL 4 1950 TELETYPE

FBI SAN ANTONIO 7-4-50 1-30 PM JMW

DIRECTOR FBI

FLYING DISC FOUND AT ALICE, TEXAS, JULY FOUR, FIFTY, INTERNAL SECURITY DASH R. CAA REPRESENTATIVES SAN ANTONIO, ADVISED THIS OFFICE AT TWELVE FIFTEEN P. M. THIS DATE THAT THEY HAD RECEIVED INFORMATION FROM THEIR REPRESENTATIVE AT ALICE THAT A FLYING DISC HAD BEEN FOUND BETWEEN THE MUNICIPAL AIRPORT AND THE CITY OF ALICE. DISC IS ELLIPITICAL SHAPE, FOUR TO FIVE FEET IN DIAMETER, HAS TWO RADIO AERIALS, SLOTS OR HOLES INDICATING JET OR ROCKET PROPULSION. DISC HAS NO. X ONE FOUR SEVEN A, PRINTED ON IT, TOGETHER WITH QUOTE DO NOT TOUCH UNQUOTE. LOCAL RADIO NEWSCAST QUOTES CHIEF OF POLICE, ALICE, TEXAS AS STATING FLYING DISC A HOAX. OSI, KELLY AFB AND HOUSTON OFFICE ADVISED.

WEEKS

END
RECORDED - 118
ACK PLS
331PM OK FBI WASH DC CCW
[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-238] [HANDWRITTEN: 5-Ehm] [HANDWRITTEN: JUL 18 1950] [HANDWRITTEN: 51 JUL 24 1950] [HANDWRITTEN: cci: Mr. Belmont]

PAGE 181

other

This page is a blank document containing only FBI teletype receipt stamps dated July 4, 1950.

RECEIVED TELETYPE UNIT
JUL 4 3 32 PM '50
F.B.I. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

RELIEVED - DIRECTOR
F B I
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE
JUL 4 5 45 PM '50

PAGE 182

cover-page

This is a blank file folder cover page with a handwritten case number.

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-239]

PAGE 183

photograph

A black and white photograph showing an aircraft in the sky with a dark, circular object visible to its left.

PAGE 184

photograph

A photographic strip showing three frames of a dark, circular object in the sky near an aircraft.

PAGE 185

letter

A letter from J.L. Adams inquiring about the accuracy of Donald Keyhoe's book 'The Flying Saucers Are Real' regarding information attributed to the Air Force and the FBI.

To whom it may concern:
I would like to know just how much truth is in Donald Keyhoe's book "The Flying Saucers Are Real" published this year by the Fawcett Publications, Inc. Keyhoe quotes a vast amount of information from the Air Force, and the F.B.I. Sincerely yours, J.L. Adams
[HANDWRITTEN: ack 7-8-50 DDC]

RECORDED - 71
[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-239]
JUL 18 1950

PAGE 186

letter

A letter from J. Edgar Hoover to Glenn Lee Adams advising him to contact the Air Force regarding his inquiry about a book titled 'The Flying Saucers are Real' by Donald Keyhoe, which mentions FBI investigations.

July 11, 1950

Mr. Glenn Lee Adams
921 South 40th Street
Louisville 11, Kentucky

Dear Mr. Adams:

Your card postmarked July 3, 1950, has been received and it is suggested that you may wish to correspond directly with the Secretary of the Air Force, National Defense Building, The Pentagon, Washington 25, D. C., since the matter to which you referred has been handled by that agency.

I am sure you will find on a close examination of the book you mentioned that it contains no quotations from the FBI but merely mentions this agency.

Sincerely yours,

J. Edgar Hoover
Director

NOTE: Correspondent refers to a book "The Flying Saucers are Real" by Donald Keyhoe, which has been read and will be reviewed by the Crime Records Section in the near future. The book mentions briefly that the FBI was investigating flying saucers and that two Bureau Agents witnessed saucers at Las Vegas, New Mexico, 12-8-48. It is not malicious in the references to the FBI, by Keyhoe who wrote the article on saucers for True Magazine.

PAGE 187

memo

This FBI memorandum details a report from the Louisville Times regarding photographs and film of a flying saucer taken by staff photographer Alf E. Hixenbaugh on June 27, 1950.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
TO : Director, FBI DATE: 8/2/50
FROM : SAC, Louisville
SUBJECT: ALF E. HIXENBAUGH's Photographs
of FLYING SAUCERS;
INFORMATION CONCERNING

On June 28, 1950, the Louisville Times, a newspaper of general circulation published at Louisville, Kentucky, carried a two column cut showing three frames of a movie camera film of what purported to be a moving picture of a flying saucer. The photographs, taken by ALF (AL) HIXENBAUGH, Times staff photographer, were taken, HIXENBAUGH said, on a 16 mm magazine-loading movie camera.

The news article, accompanying the photographs, stated HIXENBAUGH took 50 feet of film in which "the bright flying object shows clearly." The photographer, according to the article, was at Longest and Everett Avenues near his home, 2205 Longest, at 4:15 p.m., June 27, 1950, on his way to take some moving pictures of birds. The article relates that HIXENBAUGH "suddenly heard the roar of a big plane -- a twin-motored DC-3 -- and glanced overhead. At first he thought it was a jet plane then he looked to the west of the plant, which was flying southwest toward Standiford Field -- and saw the large disk. It had a slight corona around it and seemed to be lower than the plane."

According to HIXENBAUGH, the object appeared "motionless for about ten seconds ... then it began to get smaller, finally vanishing into the west." The article notes that while the "saucer" appeared on all the film HIXENBAUGH took, the airplane was out of the picture field quickly, appearing on only about 10 feet. HIXENBAUGH, according to the article, advised military officers at Godman Field who in turn notified flight headquarters at Wright-Patterson Field. A copy of the newspaper article and photographs are being forwarded to the Bureau as enclosures.

A subsequent newspaper article stated that representatives of the military would fly to Louisville to examine the films. In addition to being printed in the Louisville Times, the movie film taken by HIXENBAUGH was carried on a national television network and received national comment from WALTER WINCHELL. HIXENBAUGH has received telephonic and written queries concerning subject matter of the picture

HTH/whp
Ls #62
ENCL. Enclosures-3 [HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-240] [HANDWRITTEN: AUG 4 1950] [HANDWRITTEN: 3] [HANDWRITTEN: 51 AUG 8 1950] [HANDWRITTEN: EX-95] [HANDWRITTEN: X-95] [HANDWRITTEN: FIVE] [HANDWRITTEN: EPH]

PAGE 188

memo

This memo from the FBI Director to the SAC in Louisville discusses a newspaper report from June 30, 1950, regarding two individuals who claimed to have filmed a flying object.

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

DATE: 8/30/50

TO: SAC, Louisville
FROM: DIRECTOR, FBI
SUBJECT: [REDACTED] INFORMATION

On June 30, 1950, the Louisville Times newspaper reported a
story concerning two [REDACTED] who claimed to have cut out frames of a movie film of what
was purported to be a moving picture of a [REDACTED]. The photographs
were taken by [REDACTED] and said, on a 16 mm movie-taking camera.

[REDACTED] stated the accompanying news article, the object
shows "the flying object" in which he took 50 feet of
film. The photographer, according to the article, was [REDACTED].
He claimed his home, 2200 [REDACTED] Ave, was at least 15
miles from the way to 1000 [REDACTED] on June 27, P.M.
He heard the birds "chirping" [REDACTED] and saw a big plane -- over-
head -- a twin-engined plane -- it was just that he looked to
the west of the plane was flying straight -- he looked to the
broad field and saw the large disk. It had a bright color
around it and seemed to be lower than the plane.

According to [REDACTED] the object appeared for about
ten seconds... then it vanished into [REDACTED]. The article notes that while the "sauce"
appeared on the film the plane was out of the picture. All
the film, according to [REDACTED], was only about 10 feet.
He is giving the film to the [REDACTED] military officers. The
film is being identified as [REDACTED] and photographs are being forwarded
to the [REDACTED].

A representative of the [REDACTED] stated that [REDACTED]
[REDACTED] in addition to examine the film. [REDACTED] [HANDWRITTEN: 183]
by the [REDACTED] movie film at the Louisville [REDACTED] was
received on a national television network and received [REDACTED]
[REDACTED] [REDACTED] [REDACTED] the matter of the photo.

PAGE 189

report

This report details an FBI interview with Robert Steinau regarding the credibility of Hixenbaugh, who claimed to have footage of a flying saucer. Steinau alleges that Hixenbaugh has a history of perpetrating hoaxes, including a previous 'flying disk' photograph that was revealed to be a fraudulent image created using matches.

Ls #62-0

from various persons and organizations throughout the United States, he said.

On July 28, 1950, HIXENBAUGH telephonically communicated with the Louisville Division stating that he had been advised that a representative of one of the Army Intelligence Agencies would be in Louisville on Saturday, July 29, 1950, to view the film. He expressed fear that the persons who might be contacting him might be unauthorized individuals and asked if he could bring the film to the FBI office for clearance. HIXENBAUGH was advised that the Bureau did not clear employees of other agencies and if he had doubt as to their authenticity he should check with the agency they professed to represent. HIXENBAUGH was advised that in the event they were not representatives of the agency they professed to represent, the information should be furnished this office and appropriate action would be taken under the Impersonation Statute.

On July 29, 1950, ROBERT STEINAU, 1608 South Second Street, Louisville, staff photographer for the Courier-Journal, a newspaper of general circulation published in Louisville, Kentucky, personally called at the Louisville Office. STEINAU stated that he and WILLIAM DAVIS, who is in charge of photographers for both the Courier-Journal and Louisville Times, doubted the authenticity of the photographs taken by HIXENBAUGH and went on to state that approximately two years ago HIXENBAUGH took what he claimed was a night photograph of a "flying disk". The photograph was published at that time in the Louisville Times and showed a streak of light across the heavens. STEINAU said that he and DAVIS subsequently were advised by a friend of HIXENBAUGH that the picture was "a fraud". The friend related that HIXENBAUGH was lying on his back on the ground with his camera pointing toward the sky when the friend flipped one or more lighted matches across the focal plane of the camera.

STEINAU said that HIXENBAUGH enjoys a poor reputation among other staff photographers of the Courier-Journal and Louisville Times and he believes HIXENBAUGH perpetrated both the original hoax concerning the flying disk and this later "hoax" concerning the flying saucer to attract attention to himself. STEINAU produced a print made from three frames of the original motion picture negative submitted by HIXENBAUGH for television use. He also furnished an enlargement of one of the frames. He called attention to the fact that the trees appearing in the photograph and the airplane appearing in the center background both are out of focus and appear

- 2 -

PAGE 190

memo

This document discusses an analysis by Steinau regarding a photograph of a 'flying saucer' taken by Hixenbaugh, suggesting it may be a result of 'trick photography' involving camera movement. It also provides background information on the photographic department of the Courier-Journal and The Louisville Times.

Ls #62-0

"fuzzy". STEINAU called attention to the fact that the dot appearing in the picture which was termed a "flying saucer" by HIXENBAUGH appears in sharp detail. This, according to STEINAU, would indicate that the disk was closer to the camera then either the trees or airplane. Although the pictures were taken at 64 frames per second, which is calculated, according to STEINAU, to produce slow motion action, the airplane appears in only the first few frames of the negative and then disappears. The "saucer" appears stationary during most of the frames but eventually appears to be growing smaller in the distance.

STEINAU says he does not know how HIXENBAUGH performed the "trick photography" but suggests that it could be done easily by focusing the camera at a spot on a window and then moving the camera in a straight line away from the window, thus giving the illusion that the spot was disappearing into the distance.

For the further information of the Bureau it should be noted that the photographic department of the Courier-Journal and The Louisville Times, under the direction of WILLIAM DAVIS, furnishes staff photographs for both the Courier-Journal and the Louisville Times, which newspapers are operated under one ownership.

The above is furnished for the Bureau's information.

- 3 -

PAGE 191

press-release

A newspaper article from The Louisville Times dated June 28, 1950, reporting on a photographer named Al Hixenbaugh who captured film footage of a flying saucer near Standiford Field.

2 THE LOUISVILLE TIMES

Movies Snapped of Sky Disk
By Alert Times Photographer

Yes, we have some flying saucers today, and for the first time, here are moving pictures for proof.

Many have reported seeing the saucers but it remained for Al Hixenbaugh to do something about it—with his trusty 16 mm. magazine-loading movie camera.

“Hix,” Times staff photographer, took 50 feet of film in which the bright flying object shows clearly in all. Army officials have been informed and have indicated eagerness to examine the pictures.

The photographer was at Longest and Everett Avenues, near his home at 2205 Longest, at 4:15 p.m. yesterday. He was on his way to take some movies of birds.

***

Suddenly he heard the roar of a big plane—a twin-motored DC-3—and glanced overhead. At first he thought it was a jet plane. Then he looked to the west of the plane, which was flying southwest toward Standiford Field—and saw the large disk. It had a slight corona around it and seemed to be lower than the plane.

He aimed his camera and fired. While he ground out the film, he said, the object appeared motionless for about 10 seconds.

“It stood practically still, like a balloon,” he said.

Then it began to get smaller, finally vanishing into the west. While the “saucer” appears on all of the film he took, the plane was out of the picture field quickly, appearing only on about 10 feet. The disk was within his vision “about a minute.”

***

“Hix” contacted the newsroom at WHAS and from there Jerry Gammons called Standiford and Bowman Fields and weather officials. None had heard any reports of a “flying saucer.” He was advised to inform military officials at Godman Field.

Godman said it would notify flight headquarters at Wright-Patterson Field which might send an aide to examine the films.

[HANDWRITTEN: ENCLOSURE 62-83894-240]

By Times Staff Photographer
Here’s Real Flying Saucer, If There Is One
This is what a “flying saucer” looks like, if there really is such a thing. Al Hixenbaugh, Times’ photographer, snapped movies of the object yesterday. The object appears almost as big as the twin-motored DC-3 to the right.

The Louisville Times
Louisville, Kentucky
June 28, 1950

PAGE 192

memo

An FBI office memorandum from the Chicago SAC to the Director regarding the submission of information about Robert R. Petrone and flying discs to the OSI.

STANDARD FORM NO. 64
Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

TO : Director, FBI
DATE: August 2, 1950
FROM : SAC, Chicago
SUBJECT: FLYING DISCS
(Bufile 62-83894)

[HANDWRITTEN: From]
[HANDWRITTEN: EHM]
[HANDWRITTEN: Momburg]
[HANDWRITTEN: BJB]

ReBulet July 28, 1950.

The Bureau is advised that the information set forth in Chicago
let dated July 18, 1950 and the information submitted to the
Bureau by Chicago let dated July 31, 1950 entitled "ROBERT R.
PETRONE, INFORMANT, FLYING DISCS" has been submitted to OSI.

WLR-JCS
100-18999

[HANDWRITTEN: 3]

RECORDED - 103
[HANDWRITTEN: 162-83894-241]
AUG 4 1950
8
[HANDWRITTEN: EHM]
EX-71
[HANDWRITTEN: FIVE]
[HANDWRITTEN: R141]
63 AUG 10 1950

PAGE 193

other

This page contains two FBI date-received stamps from August 9, 1950.

RECEIVED
AUG 9 5 20 PM '50
REC'D ESPIONAGE
F B I
INTERNAL SECURITY SN
U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE

RECEIVED
AUG 9 2 57 PM '50

PAGE 194

PAGE 195

memo

A memorandum from the Chicago FBI office regarding a letter received from a publisher about a 'flying saucer' design, which is claimed to be a non-government aircraft with long-range atomic bombing capabilities.

Office Memorandum • UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

TO: DIRECTOR, FBI
FROM: SAC, CHICAGO
SUBJECT: FLYING DISCS

On July 26, 1950, Mr. [REDACTED], Publisher, [REDACTED], Chicago, Illinois, brought to the office the original letter and envelope attached hereto, which he received at Chicago on July 25, 1950.

"New Flying Saucer"

"Since we are on the brink of a third world conflict, the world is more concerned than ever. Aviation goes on in the pleasing days. Which fast goes on about the flying saucer of class. The saucer we speak about, is not a military one and is not owned by any government. The flying saucer is [REDACTED]. It has a large disc that with celestial glass wing. It has two large engines on both sides. It is very resembles a [REDACTED]. The wings can be seen on a clear day. This is so it is not larger for military and a visual. This is the reason for the large gas fuel tank. The ship is to give long range for atomic bombing. The ship was designed to be a [REDACTED] of Detroit, Michigan, aircraft company. The ship was financed by [REDACTED]. The saucer is [REDACTED]. The saucer is being used by the [REDACTED]. The saucer is [REDACTED]. The saucer is in the range of 4000 miles of flying. 25,000 feet, and speed of 1000 miles per hour. It is only a few of these ships and they usually are piloted by [REDACTED]."

[HANDWRITTEN: Belmont]

[STAMPS: RECEIVED AUG 2 1950 3:38 PM, RECEIVED AUG 3 1950 12:12 PM, RECEIVED RECORDS SECTION AUG 7 1950 9:14 AM, RECEIVED AUG 1 1950 4:43 PM, U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE F.B.I. CORRELATION-LIAISON, U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE F.B.I. RECID BELMONT, U.S. DEPT. OF JUSTICE F.B.I. REC'D ESPIONAGE]

PAGE 196

memo

This memo details an FBI inquiry into an individual named Albert Holmberg, noting that the Midwest Times has no record of him and that Chicago indices are negative, while providing two potential addresses for individuals with that name.

Director, FBI, 7/31/50

Mr. PETRONE states that no one connected with the Midwest Times knows of anyone named "ALBERT HOLMBERG", nor do they know of anyone who lives in the circulation area of their paper with that name. The Midwest Times has a circulation of 15,000 copies which papers are distributed in a small area in the northwest section of Chicago.

Mr. PETRONE stated he did not want to publish this letter as he felt the Army desired that the matter be kept confidential. He will contact this office again if he receives the "zinc cuts" or has any other corresponcence from HOLMBERG. He felt that HOLMBERG might send the same information to other publishers who may print the story.

There was no return address for HOLMBERG on either the envelope or the letter. There is, however, an ALBERT HOLMBERG listed in the telephone directory at 2065 North Kedzie and an ALBERT F. HOLMBERG at 11328 South Prairie Street, Chicago.

This information is being transmitted to the Bureau for such action as it deems appropriate.

The Chicago indices are negative regarding HOLMBERG.

- 2 -

PAGE 197

cover-page

This is a blank file folder cover page with a handwritten case number.

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-242]

PAGE 198

other

This page is an image of an envelope addressed to Midwest News in Chicago, postmarked July 25, 1950, with a case number written at the bottom.

[HANDWRITTEN: 76]

MIDWEST NEWS
3435 W. CHICAGO AVE.
CHICAGO, ILL.

62-83894-242

PAGE 199

photograph

This page contains a photograph of the back of an envelope, which is blank and contains no legible text.

PAGE 200

PAGE 201

other

This page contains two blank sheets of paper with handwritten case file numbers at the bottom of each.

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-242] [HANDWRITTEN: 62 83894 242]

PAGE 202

PAGE 203

letter

A handwritten letter to the FBI describing an alleged encounter with a 'flying saucer' that hit a tree above the author's truck, followed by a mysterious note found in the truck months later.

To the F.B.I. July 20/50 [HANDWRITTEN: NR 8-11-50] Dear Sirs, The answer to your letter as near as I know This letter is to the best of my memory about the [HANDWRITTEN: FLYING SAUCERS] beast saucer that hit the top of a fig ash tree my truck park under it at night. When I came to the to go to work I heard a whistly sound just as I was start to git in the truck and then the saucer hit the top of the tree and I taken of an left the truck and call Oak Park Ill Police at July 20/50 at 6.29 am oclock. Then a four a month later I found a note in the truck seat when I was call out on a trip at 9 30 oclock at night I taken to the police here. As near as I can rember it said Leave the cote that is a peall of paper that was in the saucer leave it out where the right party can git. On the secon paper it said the saucer was not ment for you that is a coade of make of big city an atomic plant [HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-2] that this [HANDWRITTEN: 42050] bisness dont mis. RECORDED - 108 AUG 1 1950

PAGE 204

other

This page is a blank sheet of lined paper containing only administrative date stamps from the FBI and Records Section.

MR. JONES.

RECEIVED
RECORDS SEC.
JUL 24 2 52 PM '50

RECEIVED
F B I
S DEPT OF JUSTICE
JUL 24 4 19 PM '50

PAGE 205

other

A handwritten note from F. Ray Turner of Oak Park, Illinois, regarding sending information to the Republican Party in Washington D.C.

If that would been look in to then
it might been a grate iger now
I sent it to the Repufic Partie
at Washington D.C.
F Ray Turner
217 S maple ave
Oak Park Ill.

PAGE 206

other

A document page indicating a change in case file numbering from 62-83894-244 to 62-48563-7X, dated November 13, 1951.

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-244]
CHANGED TO
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-48563-7X]

NOV 13 1951
[HANDWRITTEN: mmb
e]

PAGE 207

letter

A letter from FBI Director John Edgar Hoover to Walter D. Jones acknowledging receipt of a letter and stating it has been forwarded to the Department of the Air Force, followed by a note regarding background information on Walter D. Jones.

CONFIDENTIAL

September 8, 1950

Mr. Walter D. Jones
36 King Street, East
Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Dear Mr. Jones:

I have received your letter of August 29, 1950, and want to thank you for bringing the information contained therein to the attention of this Bureau.

The Department of the Air Force is the Department of this Government engaged in coordinating and analyzing the type of information contained in your referenced letter. I have taken the liberty, therefore, in furnishing your letter to that Department for their attention.

Sincerely yours,
John Edgar Hoover
Director

[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83894-2405]

Note: Bureau files reflect that a Walter D. Jones in 1944 was the Treasurer of the National Council for Canadian-Soviet Friendship. The RCMP advised in February, 1945 that Walter D. Jones was a prominent Canadian businessman and was not known to be connected in any way with the Labor Progressive Party (CP of Canada). The RCMP further advised that the National Council for Canadian-Soviet Friendship was formed primarily by persons prominent in the business life of Canada. According to the RCMP, the list of patrons included the Prime Minister of Canada, the Lieutenant Governors of the Provinces, the Premiers of the Provinces and several of the Chief Justices of Canada. (100-309856, serials 1 & 5)

PAGE 208

letter

A letter from Walter D. Jones to the FBI reporting a sighting of a 'Flying Saucer' near his farm in Toronto on July 19, 1950.

WALTER D. JONES
36 KING STREET EAST
TORONTO. ONT.

August 29, 1950.

Gentlemen:

It has come to my attention that one of the Departments of the F.B.I. is collecting information from eyewitnesses of the phenomenon commonly termed 'Flying Saucers' and with this in view I have the following incident to relate.

On July 19th at 10:30 I was looking over my farm facing west. The moon was fairly full and there was a low ceiling of light clouds. Much to my amazement I saw through the clouds a hazy object of light coming towards the farmhouse with incredible speed. It circled before reaching the farmhouse and continued to do so, neither the height or the orbit of which I could determine. I could not distinguish its shape, as it was above the clouds and I could only see a filter of light.

This was an entity in itself or within itself. It did not come from a beam either above or below. At times it seemed to retard its speed and then would circle in the opposite direction. After watching this spectacle for about ten minutes I felt in justice to myself that I should have corroboration so I called to my houseman who was in bed who came out in slippers and bathrobe and watched it with me for about ten minutes with mouth agape. I continued to watch it in all for about thirty-five minutes, from 10:30 p.m. to 11:05 p.m. when it disappeared in a westerly direction.

I am passing this along to you for what it is worth. If you are not interested throw it in the waste paper basket.

Yours very truly,
[HANDWRITTEN: Walter Jones]
[HANDWRITTEN: 62-83422-245]
RECORDED - 90
INDEXED - 90
[HANDWRITTEN: SEPT 1 1950]
The Federal Bureau of Investigation,
Department of Investigation,
Washington, D.C.,
U.S.A.
[HANDWRITTEN: LIR ACK 9/8/50 KHM/EK]
P.S. My farm is located twelve miles north east of City Hall, Toronto.

PAGE 209

form

An FBI Service Unit Search Slip for Walter D. Jones, dated September 6, 1950, referencing file number 100-309856-1,5.

SERVICE UNIT 4-22a
SEARCH SLIP
Supervisor [HANDWRITTEN: Mossburg] Room 3708
Subj: [HANDWRITTEN: Walter D. Jones]

Exact Spelling Searchers
All References Initial [HANDWRITTEN: pe]
Subversive Ref. Date 9-6-50
Main File
Restricted to Locality of
[HANDWRITTEN: Canada]
[HANDWRITTEN: on the nose]
FILE NUMBER SERIALS

[HANDWRITTEN: 100-309856-1,5]
[HANDWRITTEN: 100-30]

[HANDWRITTEN: [ILLEGIBLE]]
Initialed