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USAF (Lowry/Olmsted Flight Service Centers) CONFIDENTIAL

Unidentified Flying Objects

Date September 1949 - January 1950
Location Kansas City, Kansas; Griffiss AFB, Rome, New York
Type incident report
Pages 143

Two UFO sighting reports: spherical brilliant white objects with orange and red flashes over Kansas City/Olathe (Jan 1950), and a sighting near Griffiss AFB from a C-45 aircraft at 10,000 feet (Sep 1949).

UFO sightingKansas CityGriffiss AFBFlight Service1949-1950
Analysis

PFC Bruce McFarland signed a sworn statement describing a brilliant light that shot over Fairfield-Suisun AFB at 400 MPH, slowed with an undulating bounce, then executed a near-vertical climb to 20,000 feet and vanished. A headquarters SECRET memo noted that "research reveals groups of sightings occur at periodic intervals" and ordered all commands worldwide to start collecting photographic evidence. Three National Guard witnesses in Seattle watched a circular aluminum object 75-100 feet across move at 500-600 MPH while air traffic controllers confirmed no jets were in the area. This 143-page NARA file captures the working infrastructure of the Air Force's flying disc investigation during the Project Sign/Grudge era (1948-1950): sworn witness statements, hand-drawn sketches, classified message traffic between Flight Service Centers, and the directives that built a nationwide reporting apparatus from scratch.

Key Findings
  • A January 6, 1950 Kansas City sighting by two civilian witnesses documented two spherical, brilliant white objects emanating orange and red flashes that hovered motionless over Olathe, Kansas for 10-15 minutes before departing at high speed in a southwesterly direction at 7,000-8,000 feet altitude
  • An August 22, 1949 sighting in Seattle involved three independent military witnesses (National Guard personnel) observing a circular aluminum object estimated at 75-100 feet in diameter and 10-15 feet thick, traveling at 500-600 MPH; nearby Air Route Traffic Controllers confirmed no jet aircraft were operating in the area
  • The Fort Knox/Godman AFB incident (February 7, 1949) involved a bright multi-colored (green, yellow, red) object tracked on a theodolite that appeared to rotate, visible from 0250 to 0310 Eastern time before disappearing in a "series of bright flashes"
  • PFC Bruce McFarland's sworn statement describes a brilliant light over Fairfield-Suisun AFB (December 3, 1948) that shot into view at over 400 MPH, slowed to 200 MPH with "undulating or bouncing motion," executed a near-vertical climb, then accelerated to approximately 20,000 feet before disappearing
  • Hand-drawn sketches depict a cigar-shaped object approximately 60 feet long with a 10-foot diameter, tapered at both ends
  • An October 26, 1948 SECRET memorandum from HQ USAF directed all commands to report flying disc sightings occurring anywhere (expanding from previous US/Alaska scope), noting that "research reveals groups of sightings occur at periodic intervals" and ordering "special emphasis on photographic evidence"
  • The USAF intelligence apparatus explicitly noted periodic clustering of sighting waves, indicating pattern analysis was underway at the headquarters level
  • Fort Pepperrell, Newfoundland determined a Goose Bay sighting report was "not in purview of USAF Air Intelligence Requirements Memorandum Number Four," indicating bureaucratic boundaries in the collection system
  • Multiple incidents were reported and investigated through the Flight Service Center network, demonstrating a formalized nationwide collection apparatus
Page Extractions 143 pages

Page 1

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statushas_content
doc_typememo
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionInitial sighting report on unidentified flying objects observed over Kansas City area on the night of 6 January 1950.
dates
  • 1950-01-09 | date of memo
  • 1950-01-06 | date of sighting
people
  • James F. Grey | civilian witness | 6200 Hadley St., Raytown, Missouri | witness
  • Robert Van De Vyvere | civilian witness | 5532 Raytown Road, Missouri | witness
  • Robbert H. Robson | Lt Col, USAF | Commanding | author/signatory
organizations
  • Lowry Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base | USAF
  • Fairfax AFB Operations | USAF
locations
  • Kansas City, Kansas | sighting location
  • Olathe, Kansas | sighting location
  • Lowry Air Force Base, Denver, Colorado | reporting location
observations
  • Two objects sighted over Kansas City, Olathe on night of 6 January 1950
  • Objects appeared motionless over Olathe for ten to fifteen minutes
  • Objects then moved off very fast
  • Two objects, both spherical in shape, size of old-fashioned street lights about two blocks distant
  • Brilliant white, emanating orange and red flashes
  • Moved from Kansas City toward Olathe, remained motionless ten to fifteen minutes, then moved off very fast in southwesterly direction
  • Estimated altitude between seven and eight thousand feet
  • No sound emitted, nor exhaust trail apparent
  • Weather clear with twelve miles visibility
assessmentsObjects appeared to be size of old fashioned street lights | witness observation
references
  • Flight Service Regulation 200-4 dated 2 November 1948, Subject Unidentified Flying Objects | regulatory reference
  • Report transmitted to Fairfax AFB Operations, Kansas City, Kansas | distribution
redactionsNone visible
quotes"Two objects were sighted, both spherical in shape. They appeared to be the size of old fashioned street lights about two blocks distant. They were a brilliant white, emanating orange and red flashes."

Page 2

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statusno_content
page_descriptionDocument transmission routing page showing distribution marks and illegible text due to quality degradation.

Page 3

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionHQMAAMA Form No. 7 (Rev. 28 Oct. 48) incident report on unidentified flying objects sighted from Griffiss Air Force Base, New York on 22 September 1949.
dates
  • 1949-09-22 | date of sighting
  • 1949-09-22 | date of report (NOT 000-92 classification indicates routing)
people
  • Lt Colonel Phillip J. Kuhl | 3716A | Air Materiel Command, AF Procurement Field Office | observer/author
  • Major Earl Goodrich | Air Materiel Command, AF Procurement Field Office, Bedford, Mass | co-pilot
organizations
  • Olmsted Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base | USAF
  • Griffiss Air Force Base | USAF
locations
  • Griffiss Air Force Base, Rome, New York | sighting location | Thirty North East of base
  • Bedford, Massachusetts | reporting location
observations
  • One object sighted at 0906 hours on 20 September 1949
  • Thirty North East, Griffiss Air Force Base, Rome, New York
  • Aircraft type G-45, speed 160, altitude 10,000 feet, direction of flight 250 degrees
  • Clock position of object from observer's aircraft: Four o'clock, approximately thirty miles to the right and to the rear
  • Latitude and longitude: 43-40N, 74-55W
  • Distance from observer: Thirty miles
  • Distance measured laterally or horizontally: Horizontally
  • Angle of elevation from horizon: Level plane
  • Altitude: 20,000 feet letting down slowly until it disappeared into the overcast at 7,000 feet
  • Time in sight: Not stated
  • Appearance: Color silvery or aluminum; Shape cylindrical; Apparent construction no opinion; Size undetermined due to distance and speed
  • Direction of flight: 260 degrees
  • Tactics or maneuvers: Slow descent into overcast
  • Evidence of exhaust: Yes (flame); Color of smoke: Orange and white flame; Length and width: More than twice the length of the object
assessments
  • No sound heard
  • No visible exhaust trail
  • Officer observations support jet aircraft hypothesis
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

Page 4

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionContinuation of HQMAAMA Form showing observer characteristics and detailed sighting particulars.
dates1949-09-20 | date of sighting
organizations
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • AF Procurement Field Office | USAF
  • Bedford, Massachusetts | location
peopleLt Colonel Phillip J. Kuhl | observer
observations
  • Clock position: Four o'clock, approximately thirty miles to the right and to the rear
  • Latitude and longitude: 43-40N, 74-55W
  • Number of objects: One
  • Formation type: Not applicable
  • Distance of object from observer: Thirty miles
  • Laterally or horizontally: Horizontally
  • Angle of elevation from horizon: Level plane
  • Altitude: 20,000 feet letting down slowly until it disappeared into the overcast at 7,000 feet
  • Time in sight: Not stated
  • Appearance: Color silvery or aluminum; Shape cylindrical; Apparent construction no opinion; Size undetermined due to distance and speed
  • Direction of flight: 260 degrees
  • Tactics or maneuvers: Slow descent into overcast
  • Evidence of exhaust: Yes (flame); Color of smoke orange and white flame; Length and width more than twice the length of the object
  • Odor: Unknown
  • Rate of evaporation: Unknown
  • Does trail vary with sound: Unknown
  • Effect on clouds: Unknown
  • Lights: None
  • Support: None
  • Propulsion: Appeared to be rocket or jet
  • Propeller or jet: Appeared to be rocket or jet
  • Rotor: None
  • Aerodynamic vanes: None observed
  • Visible exhaust or jet openings: None observed
  • Control and stability: None observed
  • Fins: None observed
  • Stabilizers: None observed
  • Air Ducts: Not observed
  • Slots: Not applicable
  • Duct openings: Not applicable
  • Speed: High rate of speed
  • Sound: None heard
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

Page 5

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionContinuation of HQMAAMA Form showing observer information and narrative details of sighting from Griffiss Air Force Base.
dates1949-09-22 | report date
people
  • Lt Colonel Phillip J. Kuhl | 3716A | Air Materiel Command, AF Procurement Field Office, Bedford, Massachusetts | observer
  • Major Earl Goodrich | Air Materiel Command, AF Procurement Field Office, Bedford, Massachusetts | co-pilot
organizations
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • AF Procurement Field Office | Bedford, Massachusetts
locations
  • Bedford, Massachusetts | observer location
  • Griffiss Air Force Base, Rome, New York | sighting location
observations
  • RELATIVE TO THE OBSERVER section:
  • - Name of observer: Lt Colonel Phillip J. Kuhl, 3716A
  • - Air Materiel Command, AF Procurement Field Office, Bedford, Mass.
  • - Occupation: USAF
  • - Place of business: AF Procurement Field Office, Bedford, Mass.
  • - Hobbies: Not applicable
  • - Ability to determine: Unknown
  • - Reliability of observer: No opinion
  • - Notes relative to observer on sightings in general: The aircraft, AF 7110, was proceeding from Bedford, Mass. to Griffiss Air Force Base, Rome, New York. The plane appeared more than twice the length of the object. Check finally disappeared into the overcast, reported at 7000 feet at the time. The approximate coordinates of the sighted object was approximately AF 7110 at 43-40N, 74-55W. The range of the object from the observer was thirty miles.
  • - How attention was drawn to objects: Normal pilot surveillance
assessmentsNo specific assessment provided on this page
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

Page 6

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionContinuation of HQMAAMA Form with witness information and narrative on observer/interrogator notes regarding sighting observation.
dates1949-09-22 | report date
people
  • Lt Colonel Phillip J. Kuhl | 3716A | USAF | observer
  • Major Earl Goodrich | Air Materiel Command, AF Procurement Field Office, Bedford, Mass. | co-pilot
organizations
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • AF Procurement Field Office | Bedford, Massachusetts
locationsBedford, Massachusetts | observer location
observations
  • Radio antenna to be observed: None noted
  • Manner of disappearance: Disappeared into overcast
  • - Explode: Not applicable
  • - Possibility of fragments: Not applicable
  • - Other physical evidence: Not applicable
  • - Faded from view: Not applicable
  • - Disappeared behind obstacle: Not applicable
  • Sightings in general: The aircraft, AF 7110, was proceeding from Bedford, Mass. to Griffiss Air Force Base, Rome, New York. The plane appeared more than twice the length of the object. Check finally disappeared into the overcast, reported at 7000 feet at the time. The approximate coordinates of the sighted object was approximately AF 7110 at 43-40N, 74-55W. The range of the object from the observer was thirty miles.
  • How attention was drawn to objects: Normal pilot surveillance
assessmentsWitness assessment: No opinion provided on interrogator's intelligence and character
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

Page 7

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionContinuation of HQMAAMA Form with radar sightings, general weather information, and investigative actions.
dates1949-09-22 | report date
peopleMajor Earl Goodrich | Air Materiel Command, AF Procurement Field Office, Bedford, Mass. | co-pilot
organizations
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • Air Route Traffic Control Center | ARTC
  • AFTC | Air Traffic Control
  • Ordnance, Navy, Air Force, Army, Weather Units, Research Organizations | testing agencies
  • Geological Weather Service | organization mentioned
locations
  • Bedford, Massachusetts | observer location
  • Griffiss Air Force Base, Rome, New York | observation area
  • Tennessee | weather balloon origin hypothesis
observations
  • RELATIVE TO RADAR SIGHTINGS:
  • - No radars now operating on ground; No radar sightings
  • - If airborne, when object was sighted: Not applicable
  • GENERAL:
  • - Teletype sequence of local weather conditions: Estimated 4800 feet overcast, 500 broken, 8 miles visibility
  • - Winds aloft report: 260 degrees - 40 knots
  • - Local flight schedules of commercial, private and military aircraft flying invicinity at the time: Unknown
  • - Possibility releases of testing devices in vicinity sent aloft by Ordnance, Navy, Air Force, Army, Weather Units, Research Organizations, or any other: Unknown
  • - If object contacted earth, obtain soil samples within and without depression or spot where object landed for purposes of making comparisons of soils: Unknown
  • - If object came sufficiently near other aircraft or known objects, observe surfaces with binoculars for possible radioactivity. Take comparisons with our unaffected aircraft objects: Unknown
  • - Obtain photographs: None obtained
  • - Not obtained
  • - Obtain fragments or physical evidence where possible: None
assessmentsInvestigation summary: The operations section of the 316th Troop Carrier Wing investigated this incident further and determined that the unidentified object was a Geological Weather Service balloon believed to have been released in Tennessee.
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

Page 8

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statusno_content
page_descriptionTransmittal/routing cover page dated 27 February 1949 with transmission stamp and minimal visible content.

Page 9

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionMcCHord Flight Service Center report on unidentified flying objects sighted over Seattle, Washington area on 22 August 1949.
dates
  • 1949-08-23 | date of report
  • 1949-08-22 | date of sighting
people
  • Sgt Jack Faulkner | Controller | 143rd National Guard Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, 6736 Ellis Avenue, Seattle 8, Washington | witness
  • T/Sgt T. D. Mullen | Controller | 143rd National Guard Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, 6736 Ellis Avenue, Seattle 8, Washington | witness
  • Sgt Roger H. Studeman | Controller | 143rd National Guard Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, 6736 Ellis Avenue, Seattle 8, Washington | witness
organizations
  • McCHord Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio | recipient
  • 143rd National Guard Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron | National Guard unit
locations
  • Seattle, Washington | sighting location
  • McCHord Air Force Base | reporting location
observations
  • Location and time of sighting: Over the city of Seattle, Washington, 1345S, 22 August 1949
  • Weather at the time: Clear, visibility unrestricted
  • Names, occupations, and addresses of witnesses:
  • - Sgt Jack Faulkner, Controller, 143rd National Guard Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, 6736 Ellis Avenue, Seattle 8, Washington
  • - T/Sgt T. D. Mullen, Controller, 143rd National Guard Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, 6736 Ellis Avenue, Seattle 8, Washington
  • - Sgt Roger H. Studeman, Controller, 143rd National Guard Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, 6736 Ellis Avenue, Seattle 8, Washington
  • Photographs of objects, if available: Photographs of objects are not available.
  • Sketches of object's configuration: Sketches of object's configuration are not available.
  • Object sighted:
  • - Number: One.
  • - Shape: Circular.
  • - Size: Estimated seventy-five (75) to one hundred (100) feet in diameter with an estimated depth of ten (10) to fifteen (15) feet.
  • - Color: Shiny aluminum. Object reflected the sun's rays.
  • - Speed: Estimated five (5) to six (6) hundred miles per hour.
  • - Heading: From north to south.
  • - Maneuverability: Object did not maneuver.
  • - Altitude: Estimated ten (10) thousand feet.
  • - Sound: The sound was similar to a jet aircraft.
  • - Exhaust trail or not: No exhaust trail was noted.
assessmentsSgt Studeman first saw the object from his home in the north end of Seattle and called Sgt Faulkner who was on duty at the 143rd National Guard Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron and reported the object.
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

Page 10

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionContinuation of McCHord Flight Service Center report with detailed witness narrative and object sighting information.
dates
  • 1949-08-22 | sighting date
  • 1949-08-23 | report date
people
  • Sgt Faulkner | Air Route Traffic Controller | Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center | witness/reporter
  • Sgt Studeman | witness
  • Sgt Mullen | witness
  • Ben Prieman | ARTC Controller | Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center, P.O. Box 3224, Seattle 14, Washington
  • Howard Watson | Senior ARTC Controller | Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center, P.O. Box 3224, Seattle 14, Washington
organizations
  • McCHord Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center | ARTC
  • 143rd National Guard Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron | National Guard unit
locations
  • Seattle, Washington | sighting location
  • Seattle-Tacoma Airport | reference point
  • Olympia Mountains | direction of aircraft
observations
  • Object sighted:
  • - Number: One.
  • - Shape: Circular.
  • - Size: Estimated seventy-five (75) to one hundred (100) feet in diameter with an estimated depth of ten (10) to fifteen (15) feet.
  • - Color: Shiny aluminum. Object reflected the sun's rays.
  • - Speed: Estimated five (5) to six (6) hundred miles per hour.
  • - Heading: From north to south.
  • - Maneuverability: Object did not maneuver.
  • - Altitude: Estimated ten (10) thousand feet.
  • - Sound: The sound was similar to a jet aircraft.
  • - Exhaust trail or not: No exhaust trail was noted.
  • Narrative: Sgt Studeman first saw the object from his home in the north end of Seattle. He called Sgt Faulkner who was on duty at the 143rd National Guard Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron and reported the object. Sgt Faulkner reported that after receiving the call from Sgt Studeman he stepped outside of the office and he saw approximately the same object reported by Sgt Studeman. T/Sgt Mullen also saw the same object. Sgt Mullen was at his home in the south end of Seattle at the time he saw the object and he reported it to the CAA Control Tower at Boeing Field, Seattle, Washington, who relayed the information to the McCHord Flight Service Center. Both Sgt Faulkner and Sgt Studeman saw other aircraft in the air at the same time the circular object was sighted and reported that it bore no resemblance to any aircraft they had ever seen before.
assessments
  • Mr. Frieman, an Air Route Traffic Controller, was on duty at the Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center at Seattle-Tacoma Airport and noticed what appeared to be a jet aircraft in the direction of the Olympia Mountains at an estimated distance of twenty (20) to thirty (30) miles away.
  • The senior controller on duty noted that no jet units were stationed within this area they notified two McCHord Flight Service Center on duty at the McCHord Flight Service Center did not have a flight plan on any jet aircraft or fighter type aircraft in the area and a check of bases within the area to determine if any jet or fighter type aircraft were flying locally from their bases received negative report.
  • Mr. Frieman and Mr. Watson both reported that they were definite that the object sighted displayed visual characteristics of a jet fighter and that its speed was such to lead them to believe it was a jet aircraft.
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionContinuation of McCHord Flight Service Center report with second object sighting near Seattle-Tacoma Airport on 22 August 1949.
dates
  • 1949-08-22 | sighting date
  • 1949-08-23 | report date
people
  • Ben Prieman | ARTC Controller | Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center
  • Howard Watson | Senior ARTC Controller | Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center
organizations
  • McCHord Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center | ARTC
locations
  • Seattle-Tacoma Airport | sighting location
  • Olympia Mountains | direction reference
observations
  • Second object sighting:
  • - Location and time of sighting: Approximately thirty (30) miles west northwest of Seattle-Tacoma Airport, 1920F, 22 August 1949.
  • - Weather at the time: Clear, visibility unrestricted.
  • - Names, occupations, and addresses of witnesses:
  • - Ben Prieman, ARTC Controller, Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center, P.O. Box 3224, Seattle 14, Washington.
  • - Howard Watson, Senior ARTC Controller, Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center, P.O. Box 3224, Seattle 14, Washington.
  • - Photographs of objects, if available: Photographs of objects are not available.
  • - Sketches of object's configuration: Sketches of object's configuration are not available.
  • - Object sighted:
  • - Number: One.
  • - Shape: Similar to an F-84.
  • - Size: Similar to an F-84.
  • - Color: Similar to an F-84.
  • - Speed: Similar to an F-84.
  • - Heading: Object was heading from south to north.
  • - Maneuverability: Object did not maneuver.
assessmentsNone stated on this page
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

Page 12

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionConclusion of McCHord Flight Service Center report with second object details and investigation findings.
dates
  • 1949-08-22 | sighting date
  • 1949-08-23 | report date
peopleLt. Col. USAF | Commanding | signatory
organizations
  • McCHord Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Chief of Staff, USAF | recipient
  • MATS | Military Air Transport Service
  • Flight Service Center | USAF
locationsSeattle-Tacoma Airport area | observation area
observations
  • Second object continued:
  • - Altitude: Object was estimated four (4) to five (5) thousand feet
  • - Sound: No sound was heard.
  • - Exhaust trail or not: No exhaust trail was noted.
  • Narrative: Mr. Frieman, an Air Route Traffic Controller, was on duty at the Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center at Seattle-Tacoma Airport and noticed what appeared to be a jet aircraft in the direction of the Olympia Mountains at an estimated distance of twenty (20) to thirty (30) miles away. The senior controller on duty noted that no jet units were stationed within this area they notified two McCHord Flight Service Center on duty at the McCHord Flight Service Center did not have a flight plan on any jet aircraft or fighter type aircraft in the area and a check of bases within the area to determine if any jet or fighter type aircraft were flying locally from their bases. A negative report was received. Mr. Frieman and Mr. Watson both reported that they were definite that the object sighted displayed visual characteristics of a jet fighter and that its speed was such to lead them to believe it was a jet aircraft.
assessmentsOfficers' conclusion: The object sighted displayed visual characteristics of a jet fighter and speed suggested jet aircraft origin
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

Page 13

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statushas_content
doc_typememo
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionTransmittal memo dated 24 August 1949 2:50 PM showing routing from McCHord Flight Service Center to Flight Service Field Headquarters.
dates1949-08-24 | transmission date and time
organizations
  • McCHord Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Flight Service Headquarters | USAF
observations
  • Document transmitted with "TRANSMITTED" stamp
  • Time marked: Aug-24 2:50 PM 49
  • Routed to Flight Service Field Headquarters
assessmentsNone visible
redactionsSignificant portions of text are illegible due to document quality
quotesNone

Page 14

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionMaxwell Flight Service Center report on unidentified flying objects sighted over Greenville, South Carolina on 15 August 1949.
dates
  • 1949-08-16 | date of report
  • 1949-08-15 | date of sighting (1930E)
people
  • Mr. Harper | civilian | employed at Greenville Municipal Airport | witness
  • unidentified witness | not identified
organizations
  • Maxwell Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio | recipient
  • Greenville Municipal Airport | location
  • Atlanta Air Route Traffic Control Center | ARTC
  • AFTC | Air Traffic Control Center, Greenville
  • 316th Troop Carrier Wing Operations | investigation unit
  • Geological Weather Service | organization mentioned
locations
  • Greenville, South Carolina | sighting location
  • Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama | reporting location
observations
  • Location and time of sighting: Over Greenville, S.C., at 1930E, 15 August 1949.
  • Weather at the time: 1930E weather for Greenville AF Base was 4000 scattered, 15 miles visibility. Greenville, S.C. Municipal Airport weather at 1930E was 25000 broken, 9000 scattered, 30 miles visibility, with distant thunderstorms in all quadrants.
  • Two witnesses reported the unidentified flying objects. One of the witnesses was not identified and the other was Mr. Harper of Leasing Avenue, Greenville, S.C., who is employed at the Greenville Municipal Airport.
  • No photographs or sketches are available.
  • The unidentified object was described by the witnesses as round, fairly large, very moving in a northeasterly direction at an undetermined speed. No sound was heard nor was any exhaust trail visible, its altitude was undetermined to 6000 feet or less. The maneuverability is not known, but it appeared to be moving at a constant speed and altitude.
  • All reports were received via Plan C2 interphone by Maxwell Flight Service Center from Atlanta Air Route Traffic Control Center. The Atlanta AFTC received them from the Greenville Municipal Airport Control Tower.
assessmentsInvestigation: The operations section of the 316th Troop Carrier Wing investigated this incident further and determined that the unidentified object was a Geological Weather Service balloon believed to have been released in Tennessee.
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionMcCHord Flight Service Center report on unidentified flying objects sighted over Spokane, Washington on 28 July 1949.
dates
  • 1949-07-28 | date of sighting (2030 PST)
  • 1949-07-20 | date of report (TCM 452)
people
  • Bill Miller | civilian commercial pilot | Spokane, Washington | witness
  • S-411 Carahan | address | Spokane, Washington | witness
organizations
  • McCHord Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio | recipient (ATTENTION: MCIAXO-3)
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
locations
  • Spokane, Washington | sighting location
  • McCHord Air Force Base | reporting location
observations
  • Location and time of sighting: Over the city of Spokane, Washington, at 2030 PST, 28 July 1949.
  • Weather at the time: The 2030 PST weather report for Spokane, Geiger Field, estimation ceiling broken - fourteen thousand feet, broken, lower broken, visibility forty (40) miles, upper broken clouds estimated at twenty-two (22) thousand feet.
  • Names, occupations, and addresses of witnesses:
  • - Bill Miller, civilian commercial pilot, Spokane, Washington. Phone Number Lakeview 7933.
  • - S-411 Carahan, Spokane, Washington
  • Photographs of objects, if available: Photographs of objects were not available.
  • Sketches of object's configuration: Sketches of object's configuration were not available.
  • Objects sighted:
  • - Number: eight.
  • - Shape: Dish shaped.
  • - Size: Larger than a B-29.
  • - Color: Not reported.
assessmentsNone visible on this page
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

Page 16

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statushas_content
doc_typememo
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionTCM 452 memo documenting unidentified flying objects sighting with observation details and witness accounts.
dates1949-07-28 | document date
people
  • Mr. Miller | civilian witness | author/witness
  • B-29 pilot AF-7742 | Air Force | witness/mentioned
organizations
  • Spokane Radio | civilian | mentioned
  • Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center | USAF | mentioned
  • McCord Flight Service Center | USAF | mentioned
locations[location not clearly specified on this page]
observations
  • Formation of eight (8) disk-shaped objects each larger than a B-29
  • Speed faster than a B-29
  • Heading from east to west
  • Altitude estimated fourteen (14) thousand five (5) hundred feet
  • Sound similar to a formation of jet aircraft
  • No exhaust trail or visible exhaust
assessments
  • B-29 pilot stated he was at thirteen (13) thousand five (5) hundred feet and had not sighted anything unusual
  • Mr. Miller stated he had not been drinking and had good vision
quotes
  • "Speed: Much faster than a B-29"
  • "Heading: From east to west"
  • "Sound: Similar to a formation of jet aircraft"

Page 17

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statusno_content
page_descriptionTransmission cover page showing routing information dated July 28, 1949.

Page 18

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionTCM 452 report of unidentified flying objects sighting near Medford, Oregon on 8 August 1949.
dates
  • 1949-08-10 | document date
  • 1949-08-08 | sighting date
people
  • Corporal E. H. Conger | AACS Air/Ground operator | Medford Airways | witness
  • Staff Sergeant Arthur Paulson | AACS Air/Ground operator | Medford Airways | witness
  • Corporal Frank Bishop | AACS Air/Ground operator | Medford Airways | witness
  • G. E. Milligan | CAA Tower operator | Medford Airport | witness
  • Jack Edmonds | CAA Tower operator | Medford Airport | witness
  • C. W. White | Communicator | CAA Range Station | Medford | witness
  • Earl Wescott | Communicator | CAA Range Station | Medford | witness
organizations
  • McCord Flight Service Center | USAF | originating agency
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF | recipient
  • Wright-Patterson AF Base | USAF | recipient location
  • Medford Airways | civilian | location of witnesses
  • CAA Range Station | civilian | location of witnesses
locations
  • Medford, Oregon | location of sighting and witnesses
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio | destination
observations
  • Objects sighted: varying number from one (1) to seven (7)
  • Shape: Undetermined
  • Size: Undetermined
  • Color: Shiny
  • Speed: Varying from slow to very fast
  • Heading: Objects did not hold any specific heading; last seen heading west
  • Maneuverability: Objects maneuvered horizontally but not vertically
  • Altitude: Very high
  • Sound: None reported
  • Exhaust trail or not: None reported
assessments
  • Personnel from Medford Airways first sighted objects and notified Medford Tower and Medford Radio
  • Personnel from Medford Radio observed objects using binoculars and were able to distinguish wings

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionContinuation of TCM 452 report describing object formations and their behavior from Medford, Oregon witnesses.
dates1949-08-10 | document date
observations
  • Objects would form a wall and then break off and reform in a trail formation
  • Objects would disappear for short periods and then reappear in the same general area
  • Objects were visible to the unaided eye only when they reflected the sun's rays
assessments
  • No further identification could be detected from the objects
  • The objects' ability to disappear and reappear suggested possible observer limitations rather than actual disappearance
referencesFlight Service Regulation 200-4 | regulatory basis for report
distribution
  • Chief of Staff, USAF | recipient
  • Commander, MATS | recipient
  • Commanding Officer, Flight Service | recipient
signaturesEARL J. LIVESAY | Lt. Col., USAF | Commanding | author

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionTCM 452 report from Wright-Patterson Flight Service Center regarding unidentified flying object sighting.
dates1949-08-04 | document date
organizations
  • Wright-Patterson Flight Service Center | USAF | originating agency
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF | recipient
  • Wright-Patterson AF Base, Ohio | USAF | location
locations
  • Columbus, Ohio | sighting location
  • Lockbourne AFB, Columbus, Ohio | receiving station
observations
  • Location: Over Columbus, Ohio for two (2) hours from 1900E to 2100E
  • Weather: 1930E Columbus Weather showed 5,000 scattered clouds with 12 miles visibility
  • One object sighted
  • Shape: No shape determined
  • Color: White and then yellowish red when on the horizon
people
  • Mr. Robert J. Andees | CAA Controller | Columbus Tower | witness
  • Mr. Robert L. Markham | CAA Controller | James Road | witness
  • Mr. E. J. Latta | CAA Controller | Marion Road | witness
referencesColumbus Tower | Lockbourne AFB | report received from

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doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionContinuation of TCM 452 Columbus, Ohio sighting report with detailed object observations.
dates1949-08-04 | document date
observations
  • Size: Impossible to identify size
  • Color: White and then yellowish red when on the horizon
  • Speed: No estimate in MPH
  • Heading: Northwest 320°
  • Maneuverability: Only observed in straight line
  • Altitude: 30,000 feet or higher
  • Sound: None
  • Exhaust trail or not: Exhaust trail before a white light
assessments
  • Copy furnished to Chief of Staff, USAF
  • Copy furnished to Commander, MATS
  • Copy furnished to Commanding Officer, Flight Service, ATTN: A-2

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statusno_content
page_descriptionTransmission cover page showing routing stamp dated August 5, 1949.

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionTCM 452 report from Wright-Patterson Flight Service Center regarding unidentified flying object sighting report dated 4 August 1949.
dates
  • 1949-08-01 | document date
  • 1949-07-24 | sighting date
organizations
  • Wright-Patterson Flight Service Center | USAF | originating agency
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF | recipient
  • Wright-Patterson AF Base, Ohio | USAF | location
  • Lockbourne AFB, Columbus, Ohio | USAF | mentioned
people
  • Captain Thrush | pilot | Northwest Airlines | witness
  • Robert Henery | CAA Tower Operator | Portland Airport | witness
  • H. W. Penhallogan | Civilian Instructor Pilot | Western Skyways | Troutdale, Oregon | witness
  • P. J. Brasford | CAA Tower Operator | Portland Airport | witness
locations
  • Fort Collins, Colorado | area mentioned
  • Troutdale, Oregon | witness location
  • Mount Hood, Oregon | sighting reference
  • Portland, Oregon | witness location
  • Portland Airport | facility mentioned
observations
  • Location and time of sighting: In the vicinity of Fort Collins, Colorado, Troutdale, Oregon, and Mount Hood, Oregon from 2100P to 2130P, 24 July 1949
  • Weather at the time: Sky clear, visibility unlimited
  • Objects sighted: Varying number, initially reported as one
  • Photographs: Not available
  • Sketches: Not available

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doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionDetailed account of Northwest Airlines pilot Captain Thrush's observation of unidentified flying objects.
dates1949-08-01 | document date
people
  • Captain Thrush | pilot | Northwest Airlines | witness
  • Robert Henery | CAA Tower Operator | Portland Airport | witness
  • Mr. Penhallogan | civilian pilot | Western Skyways | witness
  • B-29 pilot AF-7758 | Air Force | mentioned/comparative reference
observations
  • Captain Thrush reported sighting aircraft displaying two red lights and one white light while approaching Portland from the east at 2110P at six (6) thousand feet altitude
  • Object was behind him slightly to the left, maintaining same position until Thrush approached Portland
  • When over Troutdale, Thrush heard Portland Tower giving instructions to other aircraft to hold off and the airport because of an unidentified flying object dropping flares
  • Upon hearing this information, Captain Thrush turned one hundred and eighty (180) degrees and attempted to intercept the flying object
  • Two red lights and one white light that had been following him turned to the south-east and appeared to pull away from his guile easily
  • Thrush reported indicated airspeed was two hundred and ten (210) miles per hour while he was trying to intercept the objects
  • Mr. Penhallogan reported seeing the object in the traffic pattern in Troutdale, Oregon
  • Object was flying at altitude of one (1) thousand three (3) hundred feet
  • Object appeared to be two (2) hundred to eight (8) hundred feet long
  • At an estimated distance of twenty (20) miles to the east
  • The only Air Force aircraft in the vicinity at the time was a B-29, AF 7758, who was over Portland at 2130P at altitude of seven (7) thousand five (5) hundred feet, northbound
  • The pilot was questioned and stated that he did not drop any flares and did not circle over Portland and did not see anything unusual
assessmentsCaptain Thrush provided detailed witness account of object behavior and characteristics

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statusno_content
page_descriptionTransmission cover page dated August 2, 1949 showing routing information.

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionTCM 452 report from McCord Flight Service Center documenting unidentified flying object sighting dated 25 July 1949.
dates
  • 1949-07-25 | document date
  • 1949-07-24 | sighting date
  • 1949-11-02 | FS Regulation 200-4 reference date
organizations
  • McCord Flight Service Center | USAF | originating agency
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF | recipient
  • Wright-Patterson AF Base, Ohio | USAF | recipient location
  • Mountain Home Air Force Base | USAF | weather reporter
peopleHarry Clark | occupation Airport Manager | Ritchie Field | Nampa, Idaho | witness
locations
  • Mountain Home, Idaho | sighting reference location
  • Ritchie Field, Nampa, Idaho | witness location
  • Nampa, Idaho | general location
observations
  • Location and time of sighting: Ten (10) miles northwest of Mountain Home, Idaho, at 1205 MST, 24 July 1949
  • Weather at the time: As reported by Mountain Home Air Force Base for 1130 PST was scattered clouds at five (5) thousand feet, visibility thirty (30) miles
  • Objects sighted: Seven (7) objects
  • Shape description: Delta wings with no protrusions. The angle of the apex as reported by Mr. Clark was between thirty (30) and forty-five (45) degrees with the base of the triangle being a slightly curved convex
  • Size: Larger than an F-51
  • Color: Darker than normal aluminum skin and not shiny. Mr. Clark reported the surface seemed to be between a light grey and a dirty white with no markings or diffusion of color
  • Speed: Faster than an F-51 and estimated by Mr. Clark to be at least six (6) hundred miles per hour
  • Heading: Mr. Clark reported that when first sighted the formation was heading approximately three (3) hundred degrees. The formation passed over him and then made a one hundred and eighty (180) degree turn to approximately one hundred and twenty (120) degrees
  • Maneuverability: Mr. Clark reported that no maneuvering was noted other than the one hundred and eighty (180) degree turn. The objects did not appear to bank during the turn. When the objects were first sighted and before the one hundred and eighty (180) degree turn was made, the outer wing surfaces appeared to move slightly
  • Altitude: Mr. Clark reported the formation between eight (8) thousand five (5) hundred and ten (10) thousand feet

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doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionContinuation of Mountain Home, Idaho UFO sighting report with remaining observation details.
dates1949-07-25 | document date
observations
  • Objects when first sighted Mr. Clark was cruising at ten (10) thousand feet and objects were below and one-fourth (1/4) of a mile to his left
  • When the formation made the one hundred and eighty (180) degree turn Mr. Clark descended to eight (8) thousand five (5) hundred feet and was below the formation when they came back
  • Sound: No sound was noted from the formation
  • Exhaust trail or not: No exhaust trail was visible
assessments
  • Mr. Clark was en-route from Burley, Idaho, to Nampa, Idaho, in a Cub Cruiser when the objects were sighted
  • From objects sighted they appeared to be going in approximately the same direction as Mr. Clark and were approximately one-fourth (1/4) of a mile to his left and below
  • Mr. Clark was cruising at ten (10) thousand feet at this time
  • He observed the formation until it made the one hundred and eighty (180) degree turn at which time Mr. Clark descended in his aircraft and made a right (RC) degree turn to the left in an effort to intercept the formation
  • He was able to get below the level of the formation at eight (8) thousand five (5) hundred feet at which time the dark circular bulge on the bottom side of the objects became visible
  • Because of their speed the flying objects soon became lost from view
  • Mr. Clark is known personally by Captain John S. Datie of this organization who states that in his opinion Mr. Clark is a reliable witness
signaturesEARL J. LIVESAY | Lt. Col., USAF | Commanding | author
distribution
  • Chief of Staff, USAF
  • Commander, MATS
  • Commanding Officer, Flight Service

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionAdditional details and continuation observations regarding unidentified flying object characteristics and maneuvers.
dates1949-07-25 | document date
observations
  • Objects slightly below and one-fourth (1/4) of a mile to the left of his position
  • When the formation made the one hundred and eighty (180) degree turn Mr. Clark descended to eight (8) thousand five (5) hundred feet and was below the formation when they came back
  • Sound: No sound was noted from the formation
  • Exhaust trail or not: No exhaust trail was visible
assessmentsCaptain John S. Datie personally knows Mr. Clark and states that in his opinion Mr. Clark is a reliable witness

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionTCM 452 report documenting another unidentified flying object sighting dated 25 July 1949.
dates
  • 1949-07-25 | document date
  • 1949-07-24 | sighting date
organizations
  • McCord Flight Service Center | USAF | originating agency
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF | recipient
peopleMr. Clark | civilian pilot | Cub Cruiser | witness
locationsMountain Home, Idaho | sighting vicinity
observations
  • (2) Shape: In addition to the description in paragraph (e), Mr. Clark noted a dark circular structure where the pilot normally sits. The landing edge of this dark circular structure was approximately one-fourth (1/4) the distance from the apex of the delta wing to the rear. This dark circular structure was noted at the time Mr. Clark was below the objects
  • (3) Size: Larger than an F-51
  • (4) Color: Darker than normal aluminum skin and not shiny. Mr. Clark reported the surface seemed to be between a light grey and a dirty white with no markings or diffusion of color
  • (5) Speed: Faster than an F-51 and estimated by Mr. Clark to be at least six (6) hundred miles per hour
  • (6) Heading: Mr. Clark reported that when first sighted the formation was heading approximately three (3) hundred degrees. The formation passed over him and then made a one hundred and eighty (180) degree turn to approximately one hundred and twenty (120) degrees
  • (7) Maneuverability: Mr. Clark reported that no maneuvering was noted other than the one hundred and eighty (180) degree turn. The objects did not appear to bank during the turn. When the objects were first sighted and before the one hundred and eighty (180) degree turn was made, the outer wing surfaces appeared to move slightly
  • (8) Altitude: Mr. Clark reported the formation between eight (8) thousand five (5) hundred and ten (10) thousand feet. When the formation was first sighted Mr. Clark was cruising at ten (10) thousand feet

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionFinal page of TCM 452 report concluding the Mountain Home, Idaho sighting documentation with witness details and official signatures.
dates
  • 1949-07-25 | document date
  • 1949-07-24 | sighting date
observations
  • Objects were slightly below and one-fourth (1/4) of a mile to the left of his position
  • When the formation made the one hundred and eighty (180) degree turn Mr. Clark descended to eight (8) thousand five (5) hundred feet and was below the formation when they came back
  • (9) Sound: No sound was noted from the formation
  • (10) Exhaust trail or not: No exhaust trail was visible
assessments
  • Mr. Clark was en-route from Burley, Idaho, to Nampa, Idaho, in a Cub Cruiser when the objects were sighted
  • From objects sighted they appeared to be going in approximately the same direction as Mr. Clark and were approximately one-fourth (1/4) of a mile to his left and below
  • Mr. Clark was cruising at ten (10) thousand feet at this time
  • He observed the formation until it made the one hundred and eighty (180) degree turn at which time Mr. Clark descended in his aircraft and made a right (RC) degree turn to the left in an effort to intercept the formation
  • He was able to get below the level of the formation at eight (8) thousand five (5) hundred feet at which time the dark circular bulge on the bottom side of the objects became visible
  • Because of their speed the flying objects soon became lost from view
  • Mr. Clark is known personally by Captain John S. Datie of this organization who states that in his opinion Mr. Clark is a reliable witness
signaturesEARL J. LIVESAY | Lt. Col., USAF | Commanding | author
distribution
  • Chief of Staff, USAF
  • Commander, MATS
  • Commanding Officer, Flight Service
redactionsSome text appears partially obscured by classification stamps

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doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionCover letter submitting a report of an unidentified flying object to Air Materiel Command from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
dates
  • 1949-07-20 | report submission date
  • 1949-07-19 | sighting date reference
organizations
  • Wright-Patterson Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base | Dayton, Ohio
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • Columbus Ohio Municipal Airport | Columbus, Ohio
  • Cincinnati Air Route Traffic Control Center | FAA/civilian aviation
locations
  • Columbus, Ohio | sighting location
  • Dayton, Ohio | originating base
people[Name withheld], 2219 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio | civilian witness, photographer trade
observations
  • Object sighted over Columbus, Ohio at 2155 hours
  • Clear sky with 15 miles visibility
  • One unidentified object observed
  • Flying wing type with swept back wings, tail structure similar to present day jet aircraft
  • Object seemed too small for one-man aircraft
references
  • Flight Service Regulation 200-4 | compliance regulation for report submission
  • Cincinnati Air Route Traffic Control Center | source of initial information

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doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionContinuation of unidentified flying object report containing detailed observation characteristics.
dates1949-07-20 | report date (referenced as 20 Jul 49)
observations
  • Color: Luminous
  • Speed: No estimate in MPH but was traveling very fast
  • Heading: Due East
  • Maneuverability: Only observed in straight line
  • Altitude: 3000 to 4000 feet
  • Sound: Humming noise instead of rushing noise
  • Exhaust or not: No exhaust
peopleCharles E. Grogan | Lt Colonel, USAF, Commanding | author/signatory
organizations
  • Chief of Staff, USAF | recipient
  • Air Materiel Command | recipient
  • ATTN: Director of Intelligence | routing
  • Commander MATS, ATTN: Chief Intelligence Division | recipient
  • CO Flight Service, ATTN: A-2 | recipient
quotes"No exhaust." | describing propulsion evidence

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doc_typereport
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionUnidentified flying object sighting report from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base detailing observation of an object near Fairfield, Ohio.
dates
  • 1949-06-29 | sighting date and time 1750E - 1755E
  • 1949-06-29 | report submission date
organizations
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base | Dayton, Ohio
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
locations
  • Fairfield, Ohio | sighting location
  • 42°N 71°30'W | coordinates provided
people
  • Major R. L. Long | Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio | witness
  • Unidentified Civilian | resident of Fairfield, Ohio | witness
observations
  • 1 unidentified object sighted
  • Long tail of flame accompanied by a long tail of smoke
  • Undetermined size
  • Flame and smoke color
  • High rate speed
  • West to East heading
weather
  • 3,000 thin scattered clouds
  • 10 miles visibility
  • Temperature 92°F, dew point 62°F
  • Wind north-northwest 4 knots
  • Altimeter 29.94

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionContinuation of June 29, 1949 UFO report showing additional observation details and distribution.
dates1949-06-29 | incident date
observations
  • Maneuverability: Undetermined
  • Altitude: Undetermined - very high
  • Sound: Undetermined
  • Exhaust trail or not: Yes
peopleCharles E. Grogan | Lt Colonel, USAF, Commanding | author/signatory
organizations
  • Chief of Staff, USAF | recipient
  • Commander MATS, ATTN: Chief Intelligence Division | recipient
  • CO Flight Service, ATTN: A-2 | recipient
referencesFlight Service Regulation 200-4 | regulatory authority for report

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionHqAAAAMA Form No. 7 structured report on unidentified flying objects from Olmsted Flight Service Center.
dates
  • 1949-06-10 | date of sighting
  • 1949-06-10 | report date
organizations
  • Olmsted Flight Service Center | Olmsted Air Force Base, Middletown, Pennsylvania
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base | Dayton, Ohio
locationsBoston, Massachusetts | sighting location (20 miles southwest)
observations
  • Time of sighting: 0845E
  • Where sighted: See Par 3 b(2)
  • Ground observation: Not applicable
  • Air observation:
  • - Type aircraft: T-6
  • - Speed: 150 knots
  • - Altitude: 4000 feet
  • - Direction of flight: 350 degrees
  • - Distance and direction from city/town/landmark: 20 miles southwest of Boston, Massachusetts
references
  • FS Regulation 200-4 dated 2 November 1948 | compliance authority
  • Headquarters USAF letter dated 6 February 1948 | source document for reporting procedures

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionDetailed sighting report form continuation showing clock position, coordinates, object count, and appearance characteristics.
dates1949-06-10 | incident date
locations42°N 71°30'W | coordinates of sighting
observations
  • Clock position of object from observer's aircraft: 1200 hours, approximately 6 miles in front and over aircraft
  • Number of objects: One (1)
  • Formation type: No formation
  • Distance of object from observer: Six (6) miles perpendicular elevation from horizon: 5 degrees
  • Altitude: 30,000 feet
  • Time in sight: Not stated
  • Appearance of object:
  • - Color: White
  • - Shape: Tubular
  • - Apparent construction: No opinion
  • - Size: 100 feet long
  • - Direction of flight: 330 degrees - 340 degrees
  • - Tactics or maneuvers: None
  • Evidence of exhaust:
  • - Color of smoke: None
  • - Length and width: None
  • - Odor: Unknown
  • - Rate of evaporation: Unknown

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doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionContinuation of sighting report form with detailed technical observations including sound, propulsion, control, and air duct characteristics.
observations
  • Does trail vary with sound: None
  • Effect on clouds: None
  • Lights: None
  • Support: None
  • Propulsion: Not observed
  • - Propeller or jet: Unknown
  • - Rotor: Unknown
  • - Aerodynamic vanes: Unknown
  • - Visible exhaust or jet openings: Unknown
  • Control and stability: Not observed
  • - Fins: Unknown
  • - Stabilizers:
  • - Size: Unknown
  • - Shape: Unknown
  • - Location: Unknown
  • Air Ducts: Not observed
  • - Slots: Unknown
  • - Duct openings: Unknown
  • Speed - MPH: 150 MPH
  • Sound: Unknown
  • Was any radio antenna to be observed: Not observed
  • Manner of disappearance: Not stated
  • - Explode:
  • - Possibility of fragments: Unknown
  • - Other physical damage: Unknown

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doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionObserver information and assessment section of UFO sighting report form.
people1st Lt Kirshbaum | USAF, Port Devens, Massachusetts | observer
observations
  • Faded from view: Yes
  • Disappeared behind obstacle: No
people
  • Name of Observer: 1st Lt Kirshbaum
  • Address: Port Devens, Massachusetts
  • Occupation: USAF
  • Place of Business: USAF
  • Hobbies: Not applicable
  • Ability to determine: Unknown
  • Reliability of observer: No opinion
  • Notes relative to observer on sightings in general: None
  • How attention was drawn to objects: Directly in flight path
  • - Sound: Unknown
  • - Motion: Stationary
  • - Glint of light: Glint of light on canopy
  • Witnesses: None
organizations
  • USAF | observer's military affiliation
  • USAF | observer's place of business
references
  • RELATIVE TO RADAR SIGHTINGS | section heading
  • Re radars now operating on ground: No radar sightings
  • If airborne, when object was sighted: Not applicable

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionGeneral remarks section of UFO report containing teletype weather data, investigative notes, and recommendations.
observations
  • Teletype sequences of local weather conditions: 25,000 overcast - 1200 scattered
  • Winds aloft report: Not given
  • Local flight schedules of commercial, private and military aircraft flying in vicinity at the time: Unknown
  • Possibility releases of testing devices in vicinity sent aloft by Ordnance, Navy, Air Force, Army, Weather Units, Research Organizations or any other: Unknown
  • If object contacted search, obtain soil sampled within and without depression of spot where object landed for purposes of making comparison of soils: Unknown
  • If object came sufficiently near other aircraft or known objects, check surfaces with Geiger counters for possible radioactivity. Make comparisons with other unaffected aircraft objects: Unknown
  • Obtain photographs: None
  • - Not obtained
  • Obtain fragments or physical evidence where possible: None
peopleHowell P. McCorkle | Major, USAF, Commanding | signatory
organizations
  • Chief of Staff, HQ USAF | recipient
  • Commander, MATS | recipient
  • CO, Flight Service, Washington | recipient
referencesDISTRIBUTION | section heading

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doc_typereport
classificationCONFIDENTIAL (struck through with handwritten marking)
page_descriptionCover letter from Hamilton Flight Service Center reporting on unidentified flying objects.
dates1949-05-02 | report date
organizations
  • Hamilton Flight Service Center | Hamilton Air Force Base, Hamilton Field, California
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base | Dayton, Ohio, ATTN: MCIAXO-3
people[Signature present but partially illegible] | 1st Lt, [USAF] | commanding officer/signatory
observationsReport covers unidentified flying objects sighting information
referencesFlight Service Regulation 200-4 | regulatory authority directing complete report
distribution
  • Chief of Staff, USAF, ATTN: Director of Intelligence
  • Commander, MATS, Washington 20, DC, ATTN: Chief, Intelligence Division
  • CO, Flight Service, Washington 25, DC, ATTN: A-2
attachments1 Enclosure: Teletype report from this center containing all information available to Hamilton Flight Service Center on unidentified flying objects; report received from Mr. Marvin L. Small, radio operator from the EIKO Radio Station at Eiko, Nevada

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doc_typecable
classificationCONFIDENTIAL (struck through)
page_descriptionTeletype transmission from Hamilton AFB reporting multiple UFO sightings near Eiko, Nevada with witness account details.
dates1949-05-02 | transmission/report date
organizations
  • USHER CO 78TH FTR WG | originating unit
  • Hamilton AFB, Hamilton, California | originating location
  • Air Materiel Command | recipient
  • Wright-Patterson AFB | recipient, Ohio
  • EIKO, Nevada | location reference
  • Salt Lake Air Route Traffic Control | mentioned entity
  • United Air Lines | civilian airline
  • Charlie Able radio station | broadcast station
locations
  • Eiko, Nevada | location of sighting
  • Vicinity around Eiko | sighting area
people
  • Marvin Love | radio operator from Charlie Able radio station at Eiko, Nevada | source witness
  • [Unidentified] United Air Lines pilot | witness
  • Harold O Pedrazzini | Lt Col, USAF, COMDG HFSC | signatory
  • R M Kolbenschlag | Capt, USAF, ADJ | signatory
observations
  • Three flying discs sighted in vicinity of Eiko, Nevada going southwest
  • Objects remained in vicinity 3-4 minutes
  • Objects appeared to be thirty feet in diameter at approximately 14,000 feet altitude
  • Made left turn and departed ahead of United Air Lines plane departing Eiko
  • Speed estimated at 300-400 miles per hour
  • United Air Lines pilot did not see them
  • Only one Baker 226 aircraft in vicinity at time
  • Weather at Eiko clear with 3+ miles visibility
quotes
  • "Three flying discs" | describing objects sighted
  • "Thirty feet in diameter" | size estimate
  • "Left turn and departed ahead of United Air Lines plane" | describing maneuver

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doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionSemi-monthly intelligence summary from Headquarters 2143D Air Weather Wing covering radar interference and sighting observations from May-June 1949.
dates
  • 1949-05-02 | radar operator conducted test hop with RB-29 aircraft
  • 1949-06-08 | RB-29 aircraft sighting near Guam and Rota
  • 1949-06-15 | period end date for intelligence summary
  • 1949-06-16 | date of this report
people
  • 1st Lt. Ernest Swanson | weather observer | 514th Reconnaissance Squadron | witness
  • Sgt. Walter Rogers | engineer | 514th Reconnaissance Squadron | witness
  • Col. Thomas S. Moorman Jr. | Colonel, USAF | Headquarters 2143D Air Weather Wing | author/commanding officer
organizations
  • 514th Reconnaissance Squadron (VLR) | USAF | Military Air Transport Service
  • Headquarters, Air Weather Service | USAF
  • Military Air Transport Service | USAF | Washington 25, D.C.
  • Continental Weather Wing | USAF | Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma
locations
  • Guam | Pacific | radar contact point
  • Rota | Pacific | radar contact point
  • position 12° 25'N and 140° 20'E | Pacific Ocean | location of June 8 sighting
  • Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio | destination for report
observations
  • May 2, 1949 RB-29 test hop: radar interference detected on scope in same form as regular range marker but with pulses approximately 10 miles apart, covering area of Guam plus 5 degrees on either side; interference grew larger as range was reduced; operator ruled out intentional jamming
  • June 8, 1949 at 1109Z: white billowing substance sighted at 30,000 to 35,000 feet altitude while flying heading 80 degrees at 18,500 feet; appeared as traveling contrail; moving east-northeast to west-southwest at estimated 4,200 mph; observed at relative bearing 45 degrees, 30 miles distance; disappeared one minute after sighting at relative bearing 160 degrees; traveling in straight line; substance was definitely white; three-quarter moon provided excellent visibility
assessments
  • radar interference not believed to be intentional jamming | 514th Reconnaissance Squadron radar operator (experienced and proficient)
  • substance observed June 8 appeared to be traveling contrail but exhibited unusual characteristics | observers
references
  • letter from Headquarters, Air Weather Service, subject as above, file A-2, WEA 350.05
  • Vulture Baker weather reconnaissance mission | routine operation
redactionsnone visible
quotes"The operator who made the above observation is one of the 514th Reconnaissance Squadrons' most experienced radar operators and is very proficient in the operation of radar equipment." | document

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statusno_content
page_descriptionBlank page.

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionContinuation of semi-monthly intelligence summary with final details of June 8 sighting and radar scope diagram reference.
dates
  • 1949-06-08 | date of sighting event
  • 1949-06-16 | date report signed
peopleCol. Thomas S. Moorman Jr. | Colonel, USAF | commanding officer
organizations
  • 514th Reconnaissance Squadron | USAF
  • Continental Weather Wing | USAF | Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma
locations
  • Guam | Pacific region
  • Rota | Pacific region
observationswhite billowing substance moving from east-northeast to west-southwest at estimated speed of 4,200 miles per hour; speed determined by triangulation; observed at relative bearing approximately 45 degrees to aircraft heading, distance 30 miles; substance disappeared approximately one minute after first sighting at relative bearing approximately 160 degrees; traveling in straight line; definitely white in color; three-quarter moon made visibility excellent
assessmentsno sketches or photographs available of the June 8 sighting
references
  • information sent by radio from 514th Reconnaissance Squadron to Continental Weather Wing, Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma
  • Radar Scope Diagram (included as enclosure)
redactionsnone visible
quotesnone

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statusno_content
page_descriptionBlank page with distribution markings only.

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statushas_content
doc_typediagram/technical drawing
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionRadar scope diagram showing interference pattern as it appeared on May 2, 1949 test hop, with Guam and Rota island positions marked.
dates1949-05-02 | date of radar scope observation
locations
  • Guam | marked position on scope
  • Rota Island | marked position on scope
  • scope set to 100-mile range
observationsradar scope appearance diagram showing lubber line, scope boundaries, and interference pattern drawn in relative to Guam and Rota positions; interference appeared as curved/arcing patterns to the right side of Guam; scope was operating on 100-mile range setting
referencesRadar Scope Diagram, included as Enclosure 1 to intelligence summary
redactionsnone visible
quotes
  • "LUBBER LINE" | label on diagram
  • "INTERFERENCE AS IT APPEARED ON THE SCOPE" | label on diagram
  • "SCOPE WAS ON THE 100 MILE RANGE" | label on diagram

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statushas_content
doc_typeintelligence report
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionIntelligence Report DIO-17ND regarding a luminous/atmospheric phenomenon observed over U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, Alaska on April 8, 1949.
dates
  • 1949-04-08 | date of observation
  • 1949-04-11 | date of first report to intelligence officer
  • 1949-04-23 | date of formal intelligence report
  • 1948-02-13 | date of previous related reference DIO-17ND Secret HWI-96, Serial 4-S-48
people
  • Deputy U.S. Marshal Paul HERRING | Kodiak, Alaska | witness and reporter
  • Paul BERRING | witness | created drawing of atmospheric disturbance course
  • Lt. Commander D. SHEPARD | U.S. Naval Operations Officer | U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, Alaska | witness
  • Lawrence B. SHAW | taxi cab driver | Arrow Cab, Kodiak, Alaska | witness
  • Paul KREUGER | Bus Driver | U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, Alaska | witness
  • U.S. Navy Weather Central | U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, Alaska | weather reporting source
organizations
  • U.S. Naval Operating Base | Kodiak, Alaska
  • U.S. Naval Air Station | Kodiak, Alaska
  • Office of Chief of Naval Operations | Navy Department | issuing authority
  • DIO-17ND | Naval Intelligence Division
locations
  • Kodiak, Alaska | location of sightings
  • Anton Larson Bay | initial sighting location
  • East-West runways of U.S. Naval Air Station, Kodiak, Alaska | course reference
  • Ruffin Island | terminus location
  • Chiniak Bay | terminus area
  • Old Woman Mountain | reference point for some sightings
observations
  • April 8, 1949 approximately 2030 hours: Deputy Marshal Paul HERRING observed flaming greenish-blue object plunging across sky at altitude 2,500 feet, estimated speed 1,500 miles per hour; first observed above Anton Larson Bay moving west to east approximately paralleling East-West runways of Naval Air Station; visible for approximately 15 seconds; flame disappeared vicinity of Ruffin Island, Chiniak Bay; observer stated object was not a meteor due to large size and lack of sparks typically associated with meteors; first impression was jet fighter or aircraft on fire
  • April 8, 1949 approximately 2040 hours: Lieutenant Commander D. SHEPARD observed strange object streaking across sky near Old Woman Mountain; described as reddish ball of fire approximately 2 feet diameter traveling west to east at estimated 2,500 feet altitude; brilliant color without tail; flat trajectory of decline between 21 and 20 degrees; seemed to disintegrate over Chiniak Bay; no opinion offered on nature
  • April 8, 1949 approximately 2055 hours: Lawrence B. SHAW (taxi cab driver) observed strange bright blue object streak across sky; object appeared approximately 1-1/2 feet diameter trailed by 3-foot streamer pinkish in shading; appeared over Old Woman Mountain traveling west to east at estimated 2,500 feet altitude; losing altitude at estimated 26 degrees; would have struck Chiniak Bay off Nyman Peninsula if continued; object appeared to disintegrate as bright particles flew from object past Nyman Peninsula; observer was firm in opinion object was not meteor or shooting star
  • April 8, 1949 approximately 2045 hours: Paul KREUGER (bus driver) observed strange greenish-blue object flash across sky from vicinity of Old Woman Mountain to Nyman Peninsula (west to east direction); described as 1-1/2 feet diameter and approximately 10 feet long; object was approximately 500 feet high as it passed over hangar 14 of Air Station; would have landed in Chiniak Bay off Nyman Peninsula but faded from view when passed over peninsula; "had the appearance of large greenish tracer shell"
  • Weather conditions April 8, 1949 at 2000 hours: Ceiling 3,000 feet scattered clouds 8/10 coverage; Visibility 15 miles; Wind North-Northwest 15 knots; Temperature 27 degrees
  • No emission of noise reported by observers
assessments
  • Existence of luminous manifestation evaluated as probable based on corroboration of position, altitude, course and time among multiple observers
  • Shape, size and color of object variously described; unsuccessful efforts made to determine nature of phenomena; no evaluation of nature of atmospheric disturbance made without further information
references
  • DIO-17ND Secret HWI-96, Serial 4-S-48, dated 13 February 1948
  • Intelligence File Index 1948 Edition lacks celestial/meteorological phenomena index
redactionsnone visible
quotes
  • "flaming greenish-blue object plummeting across the sky" | description by Deputy Marshal HERRING
  • "had the appearance of large greenish tracer shell" | Paul KREUGER

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statushas_content
doc_typeintelligence report
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionContinuation of DIO-17ND intelligence report with detailed witness statements and weather information regarding April 8, 1949 luminous phenomenon at Kodiak, Alaska.
dates
  • 1949-04-08 | date of observation event
  • 1949-04-25 | date of formal report
people
  • Deputy U.S. Marshal Paul HERRING | Kodiak, Alaska | witness and initial reporter
  • Lt. Commander D. SHEPARD | U.S. Naval Operations Officer | U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, Alaska | witness
  • Lawrence B. SHAW | taxi cab driver | Arrow Cab, Kodiak, Alaska | witness
  • Paul KREUGER | Bus Driver | U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, Alaska | witness
  • U.S. Navy Weather Central | U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, Alaska | weather reporting authority
organizations
  • U.S. Naval Operating Base | Kodiak, Alaska
  • U.S. Naval Air Station | Kodiak, Alaska
  • Office of Chief of Naval Operations | issuing authority
locations
  • Kodiak, Alaska | location of observations
  • Naval Air Base | location referenced in verification
  • Old Woman Mountain | reference point
  • Chiniak Bay | terminus area for phenomena
  • Nyman Peninsula | terminus area for phenomena
  • Kodiak | general location
observations
  • Paul HERRING called Naval Air Base after sighting and learned no aircraft of any description in air vicinity of Naval Air Station
  • Lt. Commander D. SHEPARD observed reddish ball of fire approximately 2 feet diameter traveling west to east at estimated 2,500 feet altitude with brilliant color, without tail; flat trajectory declining between 21-20 degrees; seemed to disintegrate over Chiniak Bay
  • Lawrence B. SHAW observed bright blue object approximately 1-1/2 feet diameter trailed by 3-foot pinkish streamer; appeared in sky over Old Woman Mountain traveling west to east at estimated 2,500 feet altitude; losing altitude at estimated 26 degrees; bright particles appeared to fly from object as it passed beyond Nyman Peninsula; observer was firm in opinion object was not meteor or shooting star
  • Paul KREUGER observed greenish-blue object flashing across sky from Old Woman Mountain to Nyman Peninsula (west to east); described as 1-1/2 feet diameter and approximately 10 feet long; approximately 500 feet high passing over hangar 14 of Air Station; would have landed in Chiniak Bay off Nyman Peninsula but faded from view when passing over peninsula; appeared like "large greenish tracer shell"
  • U.S. Navy Weather for April 8, 1949 at 2000 hours: Ceiling 3,000 feet scattered clouds 8/10 coverage; Visibility 15 miles; Wind North-Northwest 15 knots; Temperature 27 degrees
  • No emission of noise by object reported by observers
assessments
  • Above statements approximately same in position, altitude, course and time; existence of luminous manifestation evaluated as probable
  • Shape, size and color of object variously described; unsuccessful efforts made to determine nature of phenomena with no further information available; no evaluation of nature of atmospheric disturbance made
redactionsnone visible
quotesnone

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statushas_content
doc_typeenclosure/diagram
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionPhotostatic copy of hand-drawn map created by Paul Herring indicating course and observations of atmospheric disturbance on April 8, 1949 in Kodiak, Alaska area.
dates
  • 1949-04-08 | date of observed phenomenon
  • 1949-04-23 | date drawing dated and attached to report
locations
  • Kodiak, Alaska | base location
  • Anton Larson Bay | starting point of observation
  • Old Woman Mountain | reference point
  • Ruffin Island | intermediate reference
  • Nyman Peninsula | terminus area
  • Chiniak Bay | terminus area
  • runway references marked
  • East-West orientation marked
observationshand-drawn map showing Kodiak area geography with directional course marked; annotations indicating path of luminous object from northwest to southeast; altitude markings noted; duration and speed references included on map; flame head and tail light reference points marked; object course direction approximately paralleling East-West runways initially
references
  • Enclosure (A) to DIO-17ND CONF HNI-96, Serial 13-49, dated 23 April 1949
  • Drawing made by Paul HERRING indicating course of atmospheric disturbance on 8 April 1949
redactionsnone visible
quotes
  • "Flame head/tail fire" | label on drawing
  • "Observer P.B. Herring - Kodiak" | identification on drawing

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statushas_content
doc_typeform/report
classificationnot fully visible but appears CONFIDENTIAL/RESTRICTED
page_descriptionAF Form 112-Part I Air Intelligence Information Report header form regarding forwarding enclosure with minimal visible content.
datesform appears to be from April 1949 period based on context
peopleform indicates officer prepared report
organizations
  • Naval Operations | U.S. Navy
  • USAF Air Intelligence | U.S. Air Force
  • U.S. Naval Air Command | mentioned as area reported on
  • Kodiak, Alaska | location
observationsform is template with minimal narrative content visible on this page; appears to be cover page for intelligence report
references
  • reference to forwarding enclosure indicated
  • form includes note about document containing information affecting national defense
redactionslarge portions of form text are too faint or obscured to read clearly
quotes"NOTE: This document contains information affecting the national defense of the United States..." | standard form notice

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statushas_content
doc_typeintelligence report
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionIntelligence Report from Office of Chief of Naval Operations regarding meteorological phenomenon at Kodiak, Alaska, Serial 13-49 dated April 25, 1949.
dates
  • 1949-04-08 | date of observation
  • 1949-04-25 | report date
people
  • Deputy U.S. Marshal Paul HERRING | Kodiak, Alaska | witness/reporter
  • Paul BERRING | preparatory drawing creator
  • Lt. Commander D. SHEPARD | U.S. Naval Operations Officer | witness
  • Lawrence B. SHAW | taxi cab driver | witness
  • Paul KREUGER | Bus Driver | witness
  • U.S. Navy Weather Central | reporting authority
organizations
  • Office of Chief of Naval Operations | Navy Department | issuing authority
  • U.S. Naval Operating Base | Kodiak, Alaska
  • U.S. Naval Air Station | Kodiak, Alaska
  • DIO-17ND | Naval Intelligence Division source
locations
  • Kodiak, Alaska | primary location
  • Anton Larson Bay | observation starting point
  • Old Woman Mountain | reference point
  • Ruffin Island | terminus reference
  • Chiniak Bay | terminus area
  • Nyman Peninsula | observation endpoint
observations
  • luminous energy manifestation observed April 8, 1949 passing over U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, Alaska
  • Deputy Marshal HERRING reported flaming greenish-blue object plummeting across sky at 2030 hours, altitude 2,500 feet, estimated speed 1,500 miles per hour, first observed above Anton Larson Bay moving west to east paralleling East-West runways of Naval Air Station, visible for approximately 15 seconds, flame disappeared Ruffin Island/Chiniak Bay area, object was too large and lacked sparks of meteor
  • Lt. Commander SHEPARD observed reddish ball of fire approximately 2 feet diameter, west to east at 2,500 feet altitude, brilliant color without tail, flat trajectory declining 21-20 degrees, disintegrated over Chiniak Bay
  • Lawrence B. SHAW observed bright blue object 1-1/2 feet diameter with 3-foot pinkish streamer, Old Woman Mountain to Nyman Peninsula, west to east, 2,500 feet altitude, losing altitude 26 degrees, disintegrated with bright particle emission
  • Paul KREUGER observed greenish-blue object 1-1/2 feet diameter approximately 10 feet long, 500 feet high over hangar 14, west to east direction, faded over Nyman Peninsula, resembled large greenish tracer shell
  • Weather April 8, 1949 2000 hours: ceiling 3,000 feet scattered clouds 8/10 coverage, visibility 15 miles, wind north-northwest 15 knots, temperature 27 degrees
  • No noise emission reported
assessments
  • existence of luminous manifestation evaluated as probable based on similar position, altitude, course and time among multiple independent observers
  • shape, size and color variously described by different witnesses; unsuccessful efforts to determine nature of phenomena; no further information available; no evaluation of nature of atmospheric disturbance determined
references
  • DIO-17ND Secret HWI-96, Serial 4-S-48, dated 13 February 1948
  • Drawing by Paul Herring showing atmospheric disturbance course
redactionsnone visible
quotes"POSSIBLE METEOROLOGICAL OR CELESTIAL PHENOMENA" | brief classification

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statushas_content
doc_typeintelligence report
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionContinuation of DIO-17ND report with full narrative of all witness accounts regarding the April 8, 1949 atmospheric disturbance at Kodiak, Alaska, including verification details.
dates
  • 1949-04-08 | date of observations
  • 1949-04-25 | report date
people
  • Deputy U.S. Marshal Paul HERRING | Kodiak, Alaska | primary witness and initial reporter
  • Lt. Commander D. SHEPARD | U.S. Naval Operations Officer | U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, Alaska | witness
  • Lawrence B. SHAW | taxi cab driver | Arrow Cab, Kodiak, Alaska | witness
  • Paul KREUGER | Bus Driver | U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, Alaska | witness
  • U.S. Navy Weather Central | U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, Alaska | weather reporting
organizations
  • U.S. Naval Operating Base | Kodiak, Alaska
  • U.S. Naval Air Station | Kodiak, Alaska
  • Arrow Cab | Kodiak, Alaska
  • Naval Air Base | location referenced for verification
locations
  • Kodiak, Alaska | primary location
  • Old Woman Mountain | observation reference point
  • Chiniak Bay | sighting terminus
  • Nyman Peninsula | sighting endpoint
  • Naval Air Station | reference point
  • Naval Operating Base | primary location
observations
  • Deputy Marshal HERRING observed flaming greenish-blue object at approximately 2030 hours passing over U.S. Naval Operating Base, Kodiak; object at altitude 2,500 feet, estimated speed 1,500 miles per hour; first observed above Anton Larson Bay moving west to east paralleling East-West runways of Naval Air Station; visible for approximately 15 seconds; flame disappeared vicinity of Ruffin Island, Chiniak Bay; HERRING's first impression was jet fighter or aircraft on fire but this dissipated when he called Naval Air Base and learned no aircraft in area
  • Lt. Commander D. SHEPARD, Operations Officer, standing near Post Office observed strange object streaking across sky near Old Woman Mountain on April 8 at approximately 2040 hours; object described as reddish ball of fire approximately 2 feet diameter traveling west to east at estimated 2,500 feet altitude; brilliant color without tail; traveling with flat trajectory declining between 21 and 20 degrees; seemed to disintegrate over Chiniak Bay; no opinion offered on nature of object
  • Lawrence B. SHAW, taxi cab driver, stated he was en route from Enlisted Mens Club to Administration Building on April 8 when at 2055 hours he observed strange bright blue object streak across sky; object appeared approximately 1-1/2 feet diameter trailed by 3-foot streamer pinkish in shading; appeared over Old Woman Mountain traveling west to east course at estimated 2,500 feet altitude; losing altitude at estimated 26 degrees; would have struck Chiniak Bay off Nyman Peninsula if continued; object appeared to disintegrate as bright particles flew from object as it passed beyond Nyman Peninsula; SHAW was firm opinion object was not meteor or shooting star
  • Paul KREUGER, bus driver, reported driving his bus April 8 when at 2045 hours observed strange greenish-blue object flash across sky from vicinity of Old Woman Mountain to Nyman Peninsula (west to east); described object as 1-1/2 feet diameter and approximately 10 feet long; object approximately 500 feet high as passed over hangar 14 of Air Station; would have landed in Chiniak Bay off Nyman Peninsula but faded from view when passed over Peninsula; stated "had the appearance of large greenish tracer shell"
  • U.S. Navy Weather Central reported weather for April 8, 1949 at 2000 hours: Ceiling 3,000 feet scattered clouds 8/10 coverage; Visibility 15 miles; Wind North-Northwest 15 knots; Temperature 27 degrees
  • No emission of noise reported by observers
assessments
  • above statements approximately same in position, altitude, course and time of luminous manifestation; existence evaluated as probable
  • shape, size and color of object have been variously described; unsuccessful efforts made to determine nature of phenomena with no further information available; no valuation of nature of atmospheric disturbance made
redactionsnone visible
quotesnone

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statushas_content
doc_typeenclosure/diagram
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionSecond photostatic copy of hand-drawn map by Paul Herring showing atmospheric disturbance course on April 8, 1949 with geographic and course annotations.
dates
  • 1949-04-08 | date of phenomenon
  • 1949-04-23 | date attachment to report
locations
  • Kodiak | base reference location
  • Anton Larson Bay | starting point
  • Old Woman Mountain | reference point
  • Nyman Peninsula | endpoint area
  • Chiniak Bay | terminus area
  • various geographical features marked on sketch
observationshand-drawn map showing Kodiak area with marked path of luminous object; directional indicators; altitude notations on sketch; course line drawn from northwest to southeast through geographic features; runway references; flame observations marked
references
  • Enclosure (A) to DIO-17ND CONF HNI-96, Serial 13-49, dated 23 April 1949
  • Drawing indicating course of atmospheric disturbance observed April 8, 1949
redactionsnone visible
quotes
  • "ENCLOSURE (A) TO DIO-17ND CONF HNI-96, SERIAL 13-49 DATED 23 APRIL 1949"
  • "PHOTOSTATIC COPY OF A DRAWING MADE BY PAUL HERRING INDICATING COURSE OF ATMOSPHERIC DISTURBANCE ON 8 APRIL 1949"

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionReport from Carswell Flight Service Center, Fort Worth, Texas regarding unidentified flying object sighting dated April 14, 1949.
dates
  • 1949-04-13 | date of sighting observation
  • 1949-04-14 | date of formal report
  • 1949-02-06 | reference to previous directive on Flying Discs
people
  • 1st Lt Robert A. Francis | observer | Carswell Air Force Base | witness/reporter
  • Captain Stanley B. Horovitz | Officer-in-Charge | Carswell Flight Service Center | recipient
  • subject officers | at flight line | witnesses
organizations
  • Carswell Flight Service Center | Carswell Air Force Base, Fort Worth, Texas
  • Carswell Air Force Base | Fort Worth, Texas
  • Air Materiel Command | Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio | recipient
locations
  • Carswell Air Force Base | Fort Worth, Texas | location of sighting
  • flight line | specific location
  • hangar 14 | reference location
  • Old Woman Mountain | reference location
  • horizon area | observation direction
  • north-northwest direction | sighting direction
observationsApril 13, 1949 approximately 2100 hours: unidentified flying object sighted over Fort Worth, Texas by 1st Lt. Robert A. Francis and other officers standing near their aircraft on flight line; object round in shape, very silver in color; traveling at tremendous rate of speed estimated over 1,000 miles per hour; object very hard to judge distance and cannot be estimated correctly; object appeared on horizon in north-northwest direction; seemed to fly horizontally in direction of south-southeast; did not appear to burn out; suddenly disappeared; no sound heard; exhaust trail seemed approximately three times size of object and also silver in color; exhaust consisted of silver streaks and star-shaped figures; object definitely did not appear to be jet or meteor; speed far in excess of jet; entire sighting in matter of few seconds; check of Carswell Flight Service flight log showing no jet aircraft flying in area at time object sighted
assessments
  • no clear identification made
  • object characteristics suggest not jet aircraft or meteor
references
  • USAF Regulation 200-4, subject "Unidentified Flying Objects" dated 2 November 1948
  • letter from Headquarters USAF, subject "Reporting of Flying Discs" dated 6 February 1948
redactionsnone visible
quotes
  • "at tremendously high rate of speed, estimated to be over 1,000 miles per hour"
  • "object very hard to judge distance and cannot be estimated correctly"
  • "did not appear to burn out, but suddenly disappeared"
  • "exhaust trail seemed to be approximately three times the size of the object and also silver in color"
  • "The exhaust consisted of silver streaks and star-shaped figurez"
  • "object definitely did not appear to be a jet or meteor"
  • "speed was far in excess of jet"
  • "entire sighting in matter of a few seconds"

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statushas_content
doc_typemessage/memorandum
classificationnot clearly visible; appears to be internal routing
page_descriptionHandwritten routing memo regarding distribution of Carswell Flight Service Center incident report, dated April 14, 1949.
dates1949-04-14 | apparent date of routing
peoplerecipient markings indicate distribution to HQ FS, MATS, and USAF personnel
organizations
  • Headquarters FS | Air Force
  • MATS | Military Air Transport Service
  • USAF | United States Air Force
  • Air Materiel Command | AMC
locationsWright-Patterson AFB, Ohio | destination reference
observationshandwritten routing instructions for distribution of flying object report
referencesrouting reference to USAF Air Intelligence requirements
redactionshandwritten portions difficult to read with certainty; some markings unclear
quotes
  • "CC: Hq FS, Attn A-2" | routing instruction
  • "cc: C. MATS, Attn: Chief, Intelligence Section" | routing instruction
  • "C/S USAF, W25,D.C., Attn, Director of Intelligence" | routing instruction

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statushas_content
doc_typemessage/communication log entry
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionIncoming classified message log entry from NBC Fort Pepperrell, St. Johns, Newfoundland to HQ MATS regarding incident report status reference EN694.
dates
  • 1949-02-01 | referenced message date (one nine reference)
  • 1949-02-15 | document reference date (one five FEN four nine)
  • message sent and received times not clearly visible
peopleaddressees at HQ MATS, AMC Wright Patterson AFB, HQ USAF
organizations
  • NBC Fort Pepperrell | St. Johns, Newfoundland | originating location
  • 7 ABG Goose Bay | mentioned unit
  • HQ MATS | Military Air Transport Service Headquarters
  • AMC | Air Materiel Command | Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio
  • HQ USAF | Chief Intelligence Division | Headquarters USAF
  • MATS | Military Air Transport Service
locations
  • Fort Pepperrell | St. Johns, Newfoundland | originating point
  • Goose Bay | referenced location
  • Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio | destination
observationsincoming classified message regarding incident report status; message references requirement memorandum number four dated one five FEN four nine; message indicates written report mentioned in Goose Bay communication as forthcoming is not being submitted
assessmentsreference to USAF Air Intelligence Requirements Memorandum Number 4 dated February 15, 1949 indicates report previously expected but not submitted
references
  • reference number EN694
  • USAF Air Intelligence Requirements Memorandum Number Four dated one five FEN four nine (February 15, 1949)
  • Goose Bay message referenced but not in purview of USAF Air Intelligence
redactionsnone visible
quotes
  • "INCIDENT REPORT NOT IN PURVIEW OF USAF AIR INTELL"
  • "REQUIREMENTS MEMORANDUM NUMBER FOUR DATED ONE FIVE FEB FOUR NINE THEREFORE WRITTEN REPORT MENTIONED IN GOOSE BAY MESSAGE AS FORTHCOMING NOT BEING SUBMITTED"

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statusno_content

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statushas_content
doc_typemessage
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionIncoming classified message from NFLD Base Command requesting evaluation of reported flights and radio activity from Goose Bay area.
dates
  • 1949-02-21 | DTG (date-time group) of message
  • 1949-02-01 | DTG referenced in Goose Bay radios message (ONE ONE NINE THREE ZERO ZEBRA)
  • 1949-03-01 | DTG referenced in second message (ONE NINE TWO ONE THREE ZERO ZEBRA MAR)
organizations
  • NFLD BASE COMD FT PEPPERRELL NFLD | Military Air Transport Service base
  • HQ MATS INTELLIGENCE DIV | Headquarters Military Air Transport Service
  • MILITARY AIR TRANSPORT SERVICE | U.S. Air Force
references
  • EN 676 | Reference number for related messages
  • Goose Bay radios incident | Activity reported in Greenland area
assessments
  • Reported flights did not originate or terminate in command area | Based on available information
  • Activity reported in Greenland last summer may have been extended or shifted to North American continent | Assessment of regional activity pattern
quotes"SCOPE OF POSSIBILITIES PREVENT PROPER EVALUATION OF GOOSE BAY RADIOS DTG TWO ONE ONE NINE THREE ZERO ZEBRA FEB AND DTG ONE NINE TWO ONE THREE ZERO ZEBRA MAR" | Message content

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statushas_content
doc_typemessage
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionClassified message from HQ SAC regarding unidentified object sighted at Fort Chimo, Quebec on 18 March 1949.
dates1949-03-18 | Sighting date at Fort Chimo (ONE NINE FIVE ZERO O ZEBRA ONE EIGHT MARCH FOUR NINE)
locationsFort Chimo | Quebec, sighting location
organizations
  • HQ SAC | Strategic Air Command
  • CO DET XTAL ONE | Command Detachment Crystal One at Fort Chimo
  • HQ USAF | Headquarters U.S. Air Force
  • HQ AMC | Headquarters Air Materiel Command
  • DIRECTORATE OF INTEL HQ USAF | Intelligence directorate
observations
  • Unidentified object sighted at station with red light similar to aircraft
  • Approximately 1000 feet altitude
  • Estimated speed 200 miles per hour
  • Direction of flight west to east
  • Remained in sight for approximately 3 minutes
  • No sound heard
  • Object sighted by four reliable witnesses
assessmentsInvestigation ongoing at Fort Chimo station | Additional information to be furnished upon completion

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statushas_content
doc_typemessage
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionClassified message from HQ SAC to HQ AMC regarding unidentified object sighted at Fort Chimo, Quebec.
dates1949-03-18 | Sighting date (ONE NINE FIVE ZERO ZERO ZEBRA ONE EIGHT MARCH FOUR NINE)
locationsFort Chimo | Quebec
organizations
  • HQ SAC | Strategic Air Command, originating office
  • HQ AMC | Air Materiel Command, recipient
observations
  • Unidentified object sighted that station
  • Red light displayed, same as aircraft
  • Approximately 1000 feet altitude
  • Estimated speed 200 miles per hour
  • Direction of flight west to east
  • Remained in sight for approximately 3 minutes
  • No sound heard
  • Sighted by four reliable witnesses
assessmentsAdditional information to be furnished upon completion of investigation from this station

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statushas_content
doc_typemessage
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionDepartment of the Army Staff Message Center classified message from CO Airfield Goose Bay regarding slow-running aircraft engines heard in vicinity.
dates
  • 1949-02-19 | Sighting/incident date at approximately 1840 hours
  • 1949-02-21 | DTG 21193oz (message date-time group)
locations
  • Goose Bay Labrador | Airfield location and reporting source
  • Wright Patterson AFB Dayton Ohio | Recipient destination
organizations
  • CO Airfield Goose Bay Labrador | Reporting unit
  • COMGENAMC Wright Patterson AFB Dayton Ohio | Command General recipient
  • CSUSAF | Chief of Staff U.S. Air Force
  • COMMA/CS attn | Addressee designation
observations
  • Sound appearing to be slow-running aircraft engines heard from general southwesterly direction from the Base
  • Very high altitude
  • Sound remained within hearing distance for about 15 to 20 minutes
  • No objects or lights observed during this time
  • Check established no Canadian or USAF planes from Goose Bay in vicinity at that time
assessments
  • Written report will follow
  • Unexplained nature of phenomenon prompts investigation

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doc_typereport
classificationUNCLASSIFIED
page_descriptionIntelligence routing slip from NFSC March Air Force Base regarding unidentified flying object report and aircraft performance data summary.
dates1949-03-01 | Report date (1 March 1949)
locations
  • March Air Force Base | California, reporting location
  • Los Angeles | Air Route Traffic Control source
organizations
  • NFSC MARCH AIR FORCE BASE, CALIFORNIA | Reporting organization
  • MATS | Military Air Transport Service
  • State Control Section | Routing office
people1st Lt. John T. Smith | Pilot of Air Force 7848, T-11, witness
observations
  • Jet-propelled blind flying object (described as saucer-shaped) circled pilot's aircraft
  • Object flying at 800 MPH
  • Altitude of 9,000 feet
  • Incident occurred over Rindenberg Pass area south of Bakersfield, California
  • Time of incident 2030 hours, 28 February 1949
  • Object disappeared on heading of 180 degrees
  • Weather at Sandberg Pass 2030 hours: twenty thousand feet thin scattered clouds, visibility 10 miles, temperature 36 degrees, dew point 34 degrees, wind south 7, altimeter 300.7
  • Weather sequence notes: visibility west 1 mile, fog ceiling and visibility variable, scattered stratus drifting over station, conditions radially changing
assessmentsNo information of object's size, shape, speed, or color is available beyond saucer description
references
  • Letter, Headquarters USAF, subject Reporting of Information on Flying Discs, dated 6 February 1948
  • Flight Service Regulation 200-4

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doc_typemessage
classificationUNCLASSIFIED
page_descriptionTransmission header showing routing through March Flight Service Center on 2 March 1949.
dates1949-03-02 | Transmission date (MAR 2 1 16 PM '49)
organizationsMarch Flight Service Center | Routing office

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statushas_content
doc_typeletter
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionMilitary letter regarding Project Sign and a photograph of V-173 or XF5U-1 aircraft from British Inter-Services Aircraft Recognition Journal with outline tracing attached.
dates1949-02-17 | Letter date
locationsWright-Patterson Air Force Base | Dayton, Ohio, recipient
organizations
  • Air Materiel Command | Recipient command
  • Intelligence Department | Recipient office
  • British Armed Forces | Distribution limiting organization
references
  • British Inter-Services Aircraft Recognition Journal | November 1948, Vol 5 No. 4
  • Project Sign | Related research program
observations
  • Photograph from recognition journal shows flying saucer described as "original, U.S. Navy, for use of"
  • Aircraft identification: Chance-Vought V-173 or XF5U-1
  • Designed for speed range from zero to 550 m.p.h.
  • Ideal for carrier work
  • No sign of aircraft in service yet noted
assessments
  • Reference publication is unclassified
  • Distribution limited to personnel of British Armed Forces
  • No copies available in office
quotes"Flying Saucer, original, U.S. Navy, for the use of. The Chance-Vought V-173 or XF5U-1 was designed for speed range from zero to 550 m.p.h. -- ideal for carrier work. There is no sign of it in service yet." | Caption from British recognition journal
peopleStanley Q. Wentz | Colonel, USAF, Chief Intelligence Division, signer
redactionsOutline tracing mentioned but not visible on this page fragment

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doc_typephotograph
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionHand-drawn diagram/outline tracing of Chance-Vought V-173 or XF5U-1 U.S. Navy aircraft showing circular disc-shaped design with propeller markings.
observations
  • Illustration shows circular/disc-shaped airframe viewed from above
  • Two propeller or rotary-wing configurations marked with star symbols
  • Landing gear or pontoon support structures visible extending from circular body
  • Overall morphology consistent with unconventional experimental aircraft design

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doc_typemessage
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionClassified military message regarding burning object observed crossing at zero sight five five local time on 1 February 1949.
dates1949-02-01 | Observation date (ZERO SIGHT FIVE FIVE LOCAL, ONE FEBRUARY FOUR NINE)
locationsNewfoundland | Observation region
organizations
  • FT PEPFERRELL NFLD | Reporting base
  • CG AMC ATTN MCIAXO DASH THREE | Recipient command
people
  • William Welts | Witness, Feepers (possibly Peppers) Crossing observer
  • Jim Burnes | Witness, Cuffling East observer
observations
  • Burning object observed at zero sight five five local time, 1 February 1949
  • Traveling southeast through air at 1000 feet altitude while waiting for bus
  • Bus driver also saw it
  • Visibility unlimited, object came up over horizon and disappeared behind 2000 foot hill
  • Unknown whether it landed
  • Visible from 5 to 1 zero minutes
  • Glowing when lit, then faded, then put on second burst at which time flaming exhaust estimated 200 yards long
  • No sound
  • Only Wells was interviewed, considered reliable by police but inarticulate
  • Reported occurrence because thought it could be aircraft in trouble
assessments
  • Wells was only witness interviewed
  • Considered reliable by police
  • Inarticulate reporting of occupance
  • Thought it could be aircraft in trouble

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doc_typemessage
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionClassified military message from Fort Pepperrell, Newfoundland regarding X-ray Charlie observation of unidentified object crossing southeast.
dates
  • 1949-02-01 | Observation date (ONE ZERO FEBRUARY FOUR NINE, CURTING FOUR EIGHT DEGREES FIVE EIGHT NORTH)
  • 1949-02-13 | DTG 23020002 (message transmission date-time group)
  • 1949-02-24 | Secondary DTG 24040002
locations
  • Fort Pepperrell NFLD Crypto | Reporting location
  • Curting location | 48 degrees 58 minutes north latitude, bearing west
organizations
  • CG MAMA | Recipient command
  • CS USAF | U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff
  • HQ MATS | Headquarters Military Air Transport Service
  • INTEL ATTN | Intelligence attention
observations
  • Observation made from Curting, 48 degrees 5 eight minutes north, five eight minutes west
  • Unidentified object crossing
  • No additional detailed characteristics visible on this page fragment
referencesXRAY CHARLIE ZERO TWO ZERO reference designation

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionReport from 6th Weather Squadron, Albrook Air Force Base, Canal Zone regarding unidentified aerial objects sighted in vicinity of San Andres Islands, Caribbean Sea.
dates
  • 1949-02-17 | Report date
  • 1949-02-06 | First sighting date at 1630 hours
  • 1949-02-08 | Additional sightings date at 1700 hours
  • 1949-03-24 | Referenced letter date from 2108th Air Weather Group
  • 1948-03-24 | Original referenced report date
locations
  • San Andres Islands | Sighting location in Caribbean Sea
  • 12 degrees 30 minutes north latitude, 81 degrees 10 minutes west longitude | Coordinates of first object sighting
  • Cristobal pier area | Canal Zone, where Captain McBride was interviewed
  • Canal Zone | General location
organizations
  • 6TH WEATHER SQUADRON | Reporting unit
  • Albrook Air Force Base | Reporting organization base
  • 2108th Air Weather Group | Referenced organization issuing original reporting directive
  • Military Air Transport Service | Recipient command
  • Caribbean Air Command | Interviewing organization
  • S.S. Antigua | United Fruit Company vessel
peopleCaptain McBride | Master of S.S. Antigua, primary witness
observations
  • First object appeared to be disc-shaped, sighted at 1630 on 6 February 1949
  • Object at 60 degrees altitude from horizon, direction 120 degrees
  • As it passed directly over ship, described as round, silver-colored sphere
  • Diameter estimated 12 to 14 inches
  • As it passed overhead bearing 310 degrees, changed color from silver to yellow to red
  • Went out of sight in dusk at altitude of 22 degrees
  • Wind at time estimated force four, approximately 29 knots
  • At 1700 on same date, two more objects sighted
  • One off port bow at altitude between 50 and 60 degrees
  • Other off starboard bow bearing 201 degrees at altitude of 47 degrees
  • Both disappeared abeam in dusk
  • None showed luminosity or motivating power
  • S.S. Antigua's course 152 degrees at 16 knots
assessments
  • Circumstances suggest possibility these objects are weather balloons
  • Study of prevailing winds at all altitudes during period 4-6 February 1949 virtually eliminates possibility of radiosonde instrument being object sighted
  • Only release point under investigation would need confirmation
references
  • Restricted letter, Headquarters 2108th Air Weather Group, subject Report on Information on Flying Discs, dated 24 March 1948
  • Letter, Headquarters, Military Air Transport Service regarding reporting procedures

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doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionFinal section of UFO sighting report discussing balloon possibilities and Russian vessels in transit.
dates1949-02-07 | Russian vessels (Omar and Blesk) arrival at Colon, Panama
peopleGeorge W. Moxon | Major, USAF Commanding | US Air Force | author
organizations
  • Headquarters Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • Headquarters United States Air Force | USAF
  • Caribbean Air Command | USAF
  • 2108th Air Area Gp | USAF
locations
  • San Andres Islands | sighting area
  • Managua | Nicaragua, location of radiosonde station
  • Colon | Republic of Panama
  • St. Thomas | Virgin Islands, departure point for Russian vessels
  • Valdivostok | USSR, destination for Russian vessels
  • Honolulu | Hawaii, route waypoint
observations
  • Three objects sighted within thirty minute period
  • No objects seen attached to discs
  • Possibility balloon broke free before release and developed leak causing drift
assessments
  • Unlikely that a radiosonde train was involved in sighting | assessed by report writer
  • Possible objects were in free flight after release from Russian vessels | assessed from wind and course backtrack computation
references
  • Report previously submitted to Headquarters Air Materiel Command and USAF Headquarters
  • Caribbean Air Command generated original report
redactionsNone visible
quotes"none of these possibilities account for the sighting of three objects within a thirty minute period"

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionWright-Patterson Flight Service Center report of unidentified flying object sighting at Godman AFB, Fort Knox, Kentucky.
dates1949-02-07 | sighting date and report date
people
  • Sgt Donald E. Ledbetter | Tower Operator | Fort Knox, Kentucky | witness
  • PFC Richard G. Dumphy | Weather Observer | Fort Knox, Kentucky | witness
  • PFC Richard E. Peterman | Weather Observer | Fort Knox, Kentucky | witness
  • Cpl Charles L. Rogers | occupation unknown | Fort Knox, Kentucky | witness
  • Clark L. Killer | Lt Colonel, USAF | US Air Force | recipient/distribution
organizations
  • Wright-Patterson Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base | USAF, Dayton, Ohio
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • US Air Force Headquarters | USAF
  • Chief of Staff | USAF
  • Commander MATS | USAF
  • Chief Intelligence Divn | USAF
  • CO Flight Service | USAF
locations
  • Godman Air Force Base | Fort Knox, Kentucky | sighting location
  • Fort Knox | Kentucky
  • Dayton | Ohio
observations
  • Object appeared to be rotating with green, yellow and red colors
  • Object sighted south-southwest of Fort Knox
  • Traced on Theodolite
  • Object dimmer as time passed
  • At 0310 hours object disappeared in southwest completely after series of bright flashes
assessmentsNone stated
referencesFlight Service Regulation 200-4 | reporting compliance
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

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statushas_content
doc_typemessage
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionIncoming classified message from Wright-Patterson AFB to Flight Service detailing UFO sighting specifications with witness names and object characteristics.
dates1949-02-07 | sighting and transmission date
people
  • Sgt Donald E. Ledbetter | Tower Operator | Fort Knox, Kentucky | witness
  • PFC Richard G. Dumphy | Weather Observer | Fort Knox, Kentucky | witness
  • PFC Richard E. Peterman | Weather Observer | Fort Knox, Kentucky | witness
  • Cpl Charles L. Rogers | occupation unknown | Fort Knox, Kentucky | witness
organizations
  • COMCNAMC Wright-Patterson AFB | Air Force, Ohio
  • CO Flight Service Washington DC | USAF
  • US Air Force | Military
locations
  • Godman AFB | Fort Knox, Kentucky | sighting location
  • Fort Knox | Kentucky
observations
  • Object number: 1
  • Shape: no report
  • Size: no report
  • Color: bright green yellow red
  • Speed: unknown
  • Heading: south-west from Godman Field
  • Maneuverability: object appeared to be rotating
  • Attitude: horizontal angle 242.5 degrees, vertical angle 03.6 degrees
  • Sound: no report
  • Exhaust trail or not: none
  • Time: 0250 eastern bright object sighted south-west of Fort Knox
  • Traced on Theodolite
  • Object appearing to be rotating with green, yellow and red colors
  • Object dimmer as time passed
  • At 0310 eastern object disappeared in southwest completely after series of bright flashes
assessmentsNone stated
references
  • Message number AT-542
  • Action to: AF
  • Info to: ID, PO
  • CM IN 1714 (8 Feb 49)
redactions
  • Multiple partial redactions of recipient organizations visible
  • "ACTION COPY" marking with distribution stamps
quotesNone

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doc_typereport
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionReport of sighting of unidentified phenomenon from 214D Air Weather Wing forwarding Japanese observations dated January 25, 1949.
dates
  • 1949-02-08 | report date
  • 1949-01-25 | sighting date (Japan observations 0600Z and 1200Z)
peopleNone named
organizations
  • Headquarters 214D Air Weather Wing | USAF, APO 925
  • Far East Air Forces | USAF
  • Japanese Central Meteorological Observatory | Tokyo, Japan
  • Military Air Transport Service | Washington DC
  • Chief Intelligence Division | USAF
locations
  • Tokyo | Japan
  • Japan | country where observations were made
  • Afghanistan/Central Asia region (implied by APO address)
observations
  • Reports received from Japanese Central Meteorological Observatory
  • Observations taken by Japanese weather personnel at respective stations
  • Probable path and point of explosion or disappearance indicated on chart
  • Surface synoptic charts for weather conditions over Japan at 0600Z and 1200Z on 25 January
  • Four and one half hours before and one and one half hours after sighting times
assessmentsNo additional information received other than that reported by the Japanese
references
  • Letter from Headquarters United States Air Force subject: "Reporting of Information on Flying Discs" dated 26 February 1948
  • Six attachments referenced: observations from Fukushima, Iida/Suwa/Nagano, Takayama/Gifu, observation and path chart, synoptic charts
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

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doc_typereport
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionReport on abnormal phenomenon from Fukushima Weather Station describing pale glow object falling toward southeast in Japan.
dates
  • 1949-01-28 | report date
  • approximately 1949-01-25 | 19:30 time of observation (7:30 p.m.)
peopleNone named
organizations
  • Fukushima Weather Station | Japan
  • CMO (Central Meteorological Office) | Tokyo, Japan
locations
  • Fukushima Weather Station | Japan, coordinates 37°45'N, 140°28'E
  • Nakagori Village | Tamura County, east of Koriyama
  • Koriyama | Japan, coordinates 37°24'N, 140°23'E
observations
  • At about 7:30 p.m., glow pale in colour was seen flying from northwest toward southeast
  • Fell with roar like thunder
  • Spot of descent appears to be Nakagori Village, Tamura County
  • Glow described as pale in color
  • Movement from northwest to southeast
  • Sound accompaniment like thunder
assessmentsProbably a meteor based on characteristics observed
referencesNone
redactionsNone visible
quotes
  • "At about 7:30 p.m., a glow pale in colour was seen flying from northwest toward southeast, which fell with a roar like thunder."
  • "Probably, it was a meteor."

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doc_typereport
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionAdditional reports on January 25 phenomenon from multiple Japanese weather stations with detailed observations of glow and associated sounds.
dates
  • 1949-01-27 | report date
  • 1949-01-25 | sighting date
peopleYasuo Miyamoto | Member of observation station | Japan | observer
organizations
  • Iida Weather Station | Japan
  • Suwa Weather Station | Japan
  • Nagano Weather Station | Japan
  • CMO (Central Meteorological Office) | Tokyo, Japan
locations
  • Iida | Japan, coordinates 35° altitude observation
  • Suwa | Japan, distance few degrees north-northeast of Betelgeuse in Orion Constellation
  • Nagano | Japan
  • Orion Constellation | astronomical reference point
observations
  • At Iida at 19h 45m 30s, pale glow observed moving almost horizontally through north toward west, then disappeared
  • Glow as great as one and a half times the moon's diameter
  • Considerable brightness, objects around observer clearly discernible
  • At Suwa at 19h 50m on 25th, pale glow like meteor with sound observed
  • Appeared in distance of few degrees to north-north-east of Betelgeuse in Orion Constellation
  • Moved almost due southeast, attaining maximum brightness at altitude about 60 degrees above horizon
  • Shined with palish white colour, intensity such that objects around observer were clearly discernible
  • Became yellowish in color, then yellowish red passing point in southwest at altitude about 40 degrees, finally disappeared
  • Time elapsed about 3 or 4 seconds
  • About 1 minute thereafter, sound resembling distant thunder heard, continued about 1.5 seconds
  • At Nagano 19h 50m on January 25, phenomenon probably meteor observed
  • Sound like explosion heard in many places near station
  • Glow appeared in direction east-south-east at point of medium altitude above horizon
  • Moved sending out palish white light toward point in direction west-south-west where it disappeared below horizon
  • Glow continued about 5 minutes
  • About 3 minutes thereafter, sound like explosion heard in direction west-south-west
assessmentsProbably meteor based on characteristics
referencesNone
redactionsNone visible
quotes
  • "This glow was as great as one and a half of the moon in diameter with considerable brightness."
  • "About 1 minute thereafter, a sound resembling to a distant thunder was heard, which continued for about 1.5 seconds."

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doc_typereport
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionReport of abnormal phenomenon from Takayama Weather Station describing remarkable glow and associated sounds on January 25.
dates
  • 1949-01-26 | report date
  • 1949-01-25 | sighting date, approximately 19:40 local time
peopleNone named
organizations
  • Takayama Weather Station | Japan, coordinates 36°09'N, 137°15'E
  • CMO (Central Meteorological Office) | Tokyo, Japan
  • Osaka Town | Japan, vicinity of station
  • Miya Village | Japan, near Takayama
  • Nagoya District | Japan
  • Central Meteorological Observatory | Nagoya
locations
  • Takayama Weather Station | Japan, 36°09'N, 137°15'E
  • Miya Village | Japan
  • Osaka Town | Japan
  • Gifu | Japan
  • Nagoya District | Japan
observations
  • At about 7:40 p.m. on 25th, remarkable glow experienced to southeast of station
  • Glow moved southwest and then disappeared
  • Followed by sound like thunder after a few minutes
  • Sound rather loud in vicinity of Osaka Town near station
  • According to report from Miya Village, glow appeared almost overhead and few minutes later sound resembling thunder heard from south
  • At Gifu, glow seen to north-north-east at about same instance as above
  • No such phenomenon observed in Nagoya District Central Meteorological Observatory
assessmentsPhenomenon might be explosion of a meteor | based on summing up eyewitness reports
referencesTelegram received from Takayama Weather Station
redactionsNone visible
quotes
  • "At about 7.40 p.m. on 25th, a remarkable glow was experienced to the southeast of this station."
  • "Summing up the reports by eye-witnesses, this phenomenon might be the explosion of a meteor."

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doc_typechart/map
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionHand-drawn map of Japan showing observation and probable path of phenomenon with legend indicating observing stations, probable path, and area of explosion/disappearance.
datesNone visible
peopleNone named
organizationsNone visible
locations
  • Japan | country map
  • Fukushima | observing station marked on map
  • Nagano | observing station
  • Takayama | observing station
  • Suwa | observing station
  • Iida | observing station
  • Gifu | observing station
  • Nagoya | region
observations
  • Map shows multiple observing stations marked as filled black dots
  • Red/brown line shows probable path of phenomenon
  • X marks indicate probable area of explosion or disappearance
  • Path traced from northwest to southeast across central Japan
assessmentsNone stated
referencesInclosure 4 from earlier report referencing "Chart - Observation and Path"
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

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doc_typechart
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionSurface synoptic weather chart for Japan at 0600Z on January 25, 1949, showing weather patterns and observations relevant to sighting.
dates1949-01-25 | 0600Z (approximately 3 p.m. local time, 4.5 hours before sighting)
peopleNone named
organizationsNone named
locations
  • Japan | country
  • Central Honshu region | where sightings occurred
observations
  • Surface synoptic weather chart showing isobar patterns
  • Multiple weather observation points marked
  • Cold front system visible
  • Wind direction indicators
  • Temperature and pressure data points marked across Japan
assessmentsNone stated
referencesInclosure 5 from earlier report
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

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statushas_content
doc_typechart
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionSurface synoptic weather chart for Japan at 1200Z on January 25, 1949, showing weather patterns approximately 1.5 hours after sighting.
dates1949-01-25 | 1200Z (approximately 9 p.m. local time, 1.5 hours after sighting)
peopleNone named
organizationsNone named
locations
  • Japan | country
  • Central Honshu region | where sightings occurred
observations
  • Surface synoptic weather chart showing isobar patterns
  • Multiple weather observation points marked
  • Cold front system visible with progression from earlier chart
  • Wind direction indicators
  • Temperature and pressure data points marked across Japan
  • Chart shows meteorological conditions 1.5 hours after phenomenon was observed
assessmentsNone stated
referencesInclosure 6 from earlier report
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone

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statushas_content
doc_typememorandum
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionOffice memorandum from MATS A-2 to AACS A-2 commenting on sighting of unidentified air object with information from 1810th AACS Group at Hickam AFB regarding aircraft sightings.
dates1949-02-07 | report date
people
  • Capt. Hathaway | Captain, US Air Force | MATS A-2 | recipient
  • Ernest S. Moon | Colonel, USAF | Assistant Chief of Staff Intelligence & Security | author
organizations
  • MATS A-2 | USAF
  • AACS A-2 | USAF
  • 1810th AACS Group | Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii
  • Hickam AFB | US Air Force
  • EWA Marine Base | Hawaii
  • Johnston Island | destination
locations
  • Hickam AFB | Hawaii
  • EWA Marine Base | Hawaii
  • Johnston Island | destination
observations
  • Attempt made to check "Charlie Five Four" suspected of releasing sighted object
  • No "Charlie Five Four" contacted or in area at 1407 local time
  • Two "Roger Five Dogs" in area (naval designation for Charlie Five Four)
  • One R5D landed at 1506, bearing number 0877, departed from EWA Marine Base
  • Not likely in area at 1407
  • Second R5D landed at 1548, number 6486, also departed from EWA, not likely in area
  • Only other contact was "Charlie Five Four" at 0909 local time, Trans-Pac ship departing for Johnston Island
  • Large number of air fields in area makes determination difficult
assessmentsImpossible to determine whether or not other contacts with other towers were made at the time | due to large number of air fields
references
  • Information from 1810th AACS Group
  • Hickam contacts
redactionsNone visible
quotes"IN VIEW OF LARGE NUMBER OF AIR FIELDS IN THIS AREA IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT OTHER CONTACTS WITH OTHER TOWERS WERE MADE AT THE TIME PD HOWEVER HICKAM CONTACTS DO NOT REVEAL ANY FURTHER INFO."

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doc_typememorandum
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionOffice memorandum from AACS A-2 to MATS A-2 forwarding information about sighting of unidentified air object from Hickam AFB with aircraft investigation results.
dates1949-02-07 | report date
people
  • Capt. Hathaway | Captain, US Air Force | MATS A-2 | recipient
  • Ernest S. Moon | Colonel, USAF | Assistant Chief of Staff Intelligence & Security | author
organizations
  • AACS A-2 | USAF
  • MATS A-2 | USAF
  • 1810th AACS Group | Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii
  • Hickam AFB | US Air Force
  • EWA Marine Base | Hawaii
  • Johnston Island | military installation
locations
  • Hickam AFB | Hawaii
  • EWA Marine Base | Hawaii
  • Johnston Island | destination
observations
  • Attempt made to check "Charlie Five Four" suspected of releasing sighted object
  • No "Charlie Five Four" contacted or in area at 1407 local time
  • Two "Roger Five Dogs" in area (naval designation for Charlie Five Four)
  • One R5D landed at 1506 bearing number 0877, from EWA Marine Base, not likely in area at 1407
  • Second R5D landed at 1548 number 6486, also from EWA, not likely in area
  • Only other contact was "Charlie Five Four" at 0909 local time, Trans-Pac ship departing for Johnston Island
  • Large number of air fields in area prevents definitive determination
assessmentsImpossible to determine whether other contacts with other towers were made at the time | due to large number of air fields in the area
references
  • Information from 1810th AACS Group, Hickam AFB
  • Hickam tower contacts
redactionsNone visible
quotes"ATTEMPT WAS MADE TO CHECK CHARLIE FIVE FOUR SUSPECTED OF RELEASING SIGHTED OBJECT BUT NO CHARLIE FIVE FOUR CONTACTED OR IN AREA AT ONE FOUR ZERO SEVEN LOCAL TIME PD HOWEVER THERE WERE TWO ROGER FIVE DOGS IN AREA WHICH IS NAVAL DESIGNATION FOR CHARLIE FIVE FOUR PD ONE LANDED AT ONE FIVE ZERO SIX BEARING NUMBER ZERO EIGHT SEVEN SEVEN AND TAKE OFF HAD BEEN FROM EWA MARINE BASE PD NOT LIKELY IN THE AREA AT ONE FOUR ZERO SEVEN PD SECOND ROGER FIVE DOG LANDED AT ONE FIVE FOUR EIGHT PD NUMBER SIX FOUR EIGHT SIX PD ALSO DEPARTED FROM EWA AND NOT LIKELY IN AREA PD ONLY OTHER CONTACT WAS CHARLIE FIVE FOUR AT ZERO NINE ZERO NINE LOCAL TIME AND WAS TRANS-PAC SHIP DEPARTING FOR JOHNSTON ISLAND PD IN VIEW OF LARGE NUMBER OF AIR FIELDS IN THIS AREA IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT OTHER CONTACTS WITH OTHER TOWERS WERE MADE AT THE TIME PD HOWEVER HICKAM CONTACTS DO NOT REVEAL ANY FURTHER INFO."

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doc_typememo
classificationSECRET (visible)
page_descriptionAACS A-2 comment responding to a flying disc sighting report with skeptical analysis.
dates1949-02-08 | Document date
peopleCharles C. Robinson | Captain, USAF | AACS A-2 | Author
organizationsAACS A-2 | US Air Force AACS unit
locationsHickam Field | Hawaii | Site of sighting
assessments
  • A strong possibility exists that the flying disc might have been a piece of cardboard or light metallic substance carried aloft by funneled air currents over Hickam. | AACS A-2
  • The nearby cane fields give off considerable moisture, creating a "dead space" that could carry inanimate objects upward | AACS A-2
  • The altitude given could be considerably off, as the object sighted was thin. Judging heights of thin objects is difficult. | AACS A-2
references
  • Sighting of "Flying Discs" | Subject matter
  • 1810th AACS Group message, 8 January 1949 | Referenced in inclusions
  • 71st AACS Group message, 050330Z January | Referenced in inclusions
recommendationsCheck records of Air Weather Service for confirmation of wind peculiarities over Hickam

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET (visible)
page_descriptionOfficial report from 1810th AACS Group detailing witness account of unidentified aerial object sighting at Hickam Field.
dates
  • 1949-01-08 | Document date
  • 1949-01-04 | Date of sighting
peopleCaptain Paul R. Stoney | AO 36278, Assistant S-2 Officer, 1810th AACS Group, twin-engine pilot | Witness/observer
organizations
  • 1810th AACS Group | Located at Hickam Field, Territory of Hawaii
  • 1808th AACS Wing | Chain of command
  • Air Materiel Command | Recipient, Wright Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio
locations
  • Hickam Field | Territory of Hawaii | Location of witness and sighting origin point
  • 25 miles due east of Hickam Field | Initial sighting location of object
observations
  • Object first sighted at 1407 local time, disappeared at approximately 1435 local time
  • Object appeared to be a large round piece of flat white cardboard, oscillating continually
  • Object was the only one seen, size approximately that of an AT-6 aircraft
  • Extremely white on underside, dark non-reflecting surface on topside
  • Speed estimated at 85 miles per hour
  • Object circled the area making right and left circles at approximately 3000 feet
  • Gained altitude continuously, then suddenly departed still climbing on straight course of 25 degrees magnetic
  • Limited maneuverability with no audible sound and no exhaust trail visible
  • Witness impressed by brilliance and whiteness of underside
  • Prior to disappearance at 40 to 50 miles from Hickam, object gave off blinking whitish reflection with decided regularity
  • Undulation was extremely rhythmical, completing cycle approximately once every second
  • Appeared to increase speed and climb angle to approximately 25 degrees during departure
  • Intermittent reflection made rate of speed during departure difficult to approximate
atmospheric_conditions
  • Scattered clouds at 3500 feet (base)
  • Visibility approximately 20 miles plus
assessments
  • Opinion of Capt. Stoney is considered worthy of consideration as officer is extremely cool and levelheaded person, not given to rash statements or poor judgment | 1810th AACS Group
  • Object was under absolute control at all times with definite gyrations being executed. Turns were extremely wide and decisive. | Capt. Stoney
references
  • C-54 type aircraft in vicinity of Hickam Field at time of initial sighting
  • Witness almost convinced object was released from or by the C-54 aircraft

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET (visible)
page_descriptionContinuation of 1810th AACS Group report providing detailed technical analysis and witness assessment of the unidentified object's characteristics and behavior.
dates1949-01-08 | Document date reference
observations
  • Witness much impressed by brilliance of whiteness of underside of object
  • Prior to disappearance at distance of 40 to 50 miles from Hickam Field, object still gave off blinking whitish reflection
  • Blinking seemed to go on and off with decided regularity
  • C-54 type aircraft reported in vicinity of Hickam Field at time of initial sighting
  • Witness almost convinced object was released from or by the C-54 aircraft
  • At all times during departure, undulation of object was extremely rhythmical
  • Rhythmical cycle completed approximately once every second
  • Object ultimately departed on straight course appearing to increase speed and angle of climb
  • Angle of climb approximated 25 degrees
  • Extremely difficult to approximate rate of speed during departure due to distance involved and intermittency of reflection
  • Object was under absolute control at all times with definite gyrations being executed
  • Turns were extremely wide and decisive
assessments
  • The opinion of Capt. Stoney on this subject is considered to be worthy of consideration as this officer is an extremely cool and levelheaded person, who is not given to the making of rash statements or using poor judgment. | 1810th AACS Group
  • Object appeared to have limited maneuverability
  • No audible sound emanated from object
  • No exhaust trail visible
page_notesThis is page 2 of the report, continuing detailed analysis

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statushas_content
doc_typememo
classificationSECRET (visible)
page_descriptionFirst indorsement to flying disc sighting report, confirming the information was transmitted via priority radio.
dates
  • 1949-01-17 | Document date
  • 1949-01-05 | DTG (Date Time Group) reference 050330Z Jan
peopleElton D. Vaughan | Major, SIG C (USAF), A/C of S, A-2 | Author/endorser
organizations
  • HQ 1808th AACS Wing | APO 925, San Francisco, California
  • Airways & Air Communications Service | Washington 25, D.C.
documents_referenced
  • Letter from 1810 AACS Group, 8 January 1949, subject "Sighting of Flying Disc"
  • Priority radio message, DTG 050330Z January, from 1810th AACS Group
assessmentsThis written report confirms information contained in Priority radio, DTG 050330Z Jan, of the 1810th AACS Group.
page_notes
  • This is the first indorsement (1st Ind) in the chain of custody
  • Reference code: Cl/dms
  • Document confirms that radio transmission of information preceded the written report

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doc_typememo
classificationSECRET (visible)
page_descriptionSecond indorsement from Air Force headquarters routing information pertaining to flying disc sightings and directing attention to proper routing of reports.
dates
  • 1949-02-26 | Referenced Headquarters USAF Letter date (as amended)
  • 1949-02-21 | Referenced Headquarters USAF Letter date
peopleErnest S. Moon | Colonel, USAF, Assistant Chief of Staff, Intelligence & Security | Author
organizations
  • Headquarters Airways & Air Communications Service | Washington 25, D.C.
  • Headquarters USAF | Referenced in letter
  • Air Materiel Command | Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio
references
  • Headquarters USAF Letter, subject "Reporting of 'Flying Discs'", dated February 1949
  • Headquarters USAF Letter, amended by Headquarters USAF Letter, same subject, dated 26 February 1948
  • 1808th AACS Wing | Directed to pay attention to proper routing
assessments
  • Foregoing correspondence is forwarded in compliance with Headquarters USAF Letter, subject "Reporting of 'Flying Discs'", dated February 1949, as amended by Headquarters USAF Letter, same subject, dated 26 February 1948
  • Attention of the 1808th AACS Wing has been invited to the above-referenced Headquarters USAF Letters, with particular emphasis on the correct routing of information pertaining to the sighting of "Flying Discs."
page_notes
  • This is the 2nd Ind (second indorsement) in the document chain
  • Emphasizes importance of proper routing procedures for flying disc reports

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statusno_content
page_descriptionPage appears largely blank or heavily degraded, with only partial text visible near top and bottom edges in very faded condition.

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statushas_content
doc_typemessage
classificationSECRET (visible)
page_descriptionPriority classified message from 71st AACS Group at Hickam AFB detailing unidentified flying object sighting in standardized military message format.
dates
  • 1949-01-04 | Date of sighting
  • 1949-01-05 | Message transmission date (implied by DTG)
message_details
  • DTG 050330Z (5 January 0330 hours Zulu time)
  • From 71 AACS GP HICKAM AFB
  • To HQ AACS
  • Info: 1808 AACS WG, PAC AIR COMD
  • Precedence: PRIORITY
observations
  • Object first sighted by Capt. Stoney at 1407 local time on 4 January 1949
  • Disappearance of object at 1435 local time
  • Object first cited 6 miles due east of Hickam Field
  • Scattered clouds at 3500 feet, visibility 20 miles plus
  • Object appeared to be large round piece of flat white cardboard, oscillating
  • Size approximately AT-6 aircraft
  • Extremely white underside, dark non-reflected topside
  • Traveled at approximately 85 miles per hour
  • Circled area approximately 15 minutes gaining altitude all the time
  • Finally departed while still climbing on straight course of 25 degrees magnetic
  • Maneuverability was limited, no audible sound, no exhaust trail visible
  • Witness believes object was released from C-54 aircraft in vicinity of Hickam at time of initial sighting
  • Object undulated rhythmically completing cycle approximately every second
  • Object seemed to be under control at all times
  • Definite gyrations being executed
  • Turns were extremely wide
  • No photographs available
routingComplete also to CG Air Materiel Command, Wright Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio, ATTN MCIAXO
page_notes
  • This is the priority radio transmission that preceded the formal written report
  • Message uses military radio abbreviations and punctuation procedures (PD = period, CMA = comma)

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doc_typemessage
classificationSECRET (visible)
page_descriptionContinuation and conclusion of priority message regarding written report being forwarded through channels, with handling instructions per AR 380-5.
handling_instructions
  • Paraphrase not required
  • Handle as SECRET correspondence per paragraphs 51i and 60a(4), AR 380-5, 15 August 1946
  • Written report being forwarded through channels
page_notes
  • This is the final portion of the priority message on page 97
  • Establishes security handling requirements for the documentation

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doc_typememo
classificationCONFIDENTIAL (visible)
page_descriptionCover memo from 1501st Air Transport Wing transmitting unidentified aerial object report to Military Air Transport Service with Essential Elements of Information Form and attachments.
dates1949-01-19 | Document date
peopleArthur Conradi Jr. | Major, USAF, Chief of Intelligence | Author/signature
organizations
  • Headquarters, 1501st Air Transport Wing | Pacific Division - Military Air Transport Service
  • Fairfield-Suisun Air Force Base | California
  • Military Air Transport Service | Andrews Air Force Base, Washington 25, D.C.
  • Headquarters, USAF | Attention: Director of Intelligence
  • Headquarters, Air Materiel Command | Attention: MCIAXO-3
  • Headquarters, Pacific Division, MATS | Attention: Chief, Intelligence Division
references
  • Instructions from Pacific Division, MATS
  • Project "SIGN"
  • Unidentified aerial object report
documents_attached
  • Essential Elements of Information Form
  • Three attachments to EEI Form
distributionCopies forwarded to: Headquarters USAF (Director of Intelligence), Headquarters Air Materiel Command (MCIAXO-3), Headquarters Pacific Division MATS (Chief, Intelligence Division)
page_notes
  • References Project SIGN, the official USAF investigation into unidentified aerial objects
  • Establishes formal routing of unidentified object report through military intelligence channels

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statushas_content
doc_typestatement
classificationCONFIDENTIAL (visible)
page_descriptionFirst-person sworn statement from control tower operator describing sighting of illuminated unidentified object over Fairfield-Suisun AFB on 3 December 1948.
dates
  • 1948-12-03 | Date of sighting
  • 1949-01-12 | Date of statement
  • 2015 PST | Time of sighting
people
  • Bruce Earlin McFarland | PFC, USAF, 1901 AACS Squadron, Fairfield-Suisun AFB, California | Witness/author
  • Arthur Conradi Jr. | Major, USAF, Chief of Intelligence | Certifying authority
locations
  • Fairfield-Suisun AFB | California
  • Control tower | Sighting location, 50 feet above ground level
  • Air freight terminal | Reference point on base
observations
  • Object first shot into view about 2 miles north of control tower
  • Flying at low altitude between 500 and 1000 feet
  • Climbing on low trajectory with speed estimated at something in excess of 400 miles per hour
  • After sighting, witness rushed to east side of tower
  • At this time object estimated to have not more than 1500 feet altitude
  • Speed had slowed for several seconds to perhaps 200 miles per hour
  • Object had very slight undulating or bouncing motion
  • Position oriented between tower and air freight terminal
  • Object took almost vertical rise or climb, leveled off again at estimated 3000 feet
  • Other control tower operator on duty continued watching object while this observer telephoned AACS operations officer
  • Other tower operator reported object almost immediately started fast climb toward south-southeast
  • Reached about 20,000 feet, at which point observer lost sight of it
  • Light was clearly seen with naked eye, brilliant but by no means blinding
  • Comparable in size to one of Fairfield-Suisun AFB's high-intensity runway lights
  • Observer convinced it was not an aircraft navigation light
  • Night was clear
  • Wind was indicating southwest at 10 miles per hour on tower instruments
assessmentsWitness certifies the information herein is true and accurate to the best of knowledge and ability | Bruce Earlin McFarland
page_notes
  • This appears to be a different sighting from the Hickam Field incident (different date, location, and object description)
  • Contains sworn certification
  • Reference to control tower instruments for wind data

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statushas_content
doc_typediagram
classificationCONFIDENTIAL (visible)
page_descriptionMilitary construction and basic layout plan of Fairfield-Suisun Air Force Base showing track/flight path of unidentified aerial object with annotations of altitude changes and flight characteristics.
locations
  • Fairfield-Suisun Air Force Base | Fairfield, California
  • Control Tower | Central reference point on base
  • Air Freight Terminal | Referenced location on base
  • New Radio Range | Labeled on diagram
  • Surface Wind Rose | Wind data chart
flight_track_details
  • Object came into view at altitude 500-1000 feet traveling at estimated speed over 400 MPH
  • Object climbed on low trajectory to estimated 1500 feet
  • Object slowed to approximately 200 MPH
  • Blobs in clump of trees | Feature marked on base layout
  • Object climbed to estimated 3000 feet and leveled off momentarily
  • Object then started to climb again
  • Object climbed to estimated 20,000 feet and leveled off momentarily
  • Object maintained fast climb to 20,000 feet
observations
  • Track shows object path from 500-foot entry point curving and climbing over the base
  • Red line traces the flight path from southwest to northeast direction
  • Multiple altitude change points marked on track
  • Wind rose indicates prevailing wind direction
  • Date annotation: October 1948 (likely diagram preparation date)
references
  • Major USAF, Chief of Intelligence, Fairfield-Suisun AFB
  • Graphic scale provided on diagram
  • Military construction office stamp
page_notes
  • This is an official military diagram documenting the unidentified object's flight path over the base
  • Shows professional military cartographic standards
  • Includes reference compass and scale measurements

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statusno_content
page_descriptionPage shows only classification markings (CONFIDENTIAL) with minimal other content, appears to be back of diagram or divider page.

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doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL (visible)
page_descriptionEssential Elements of Information form for Project SIGN regarding sighting of unidentified aerial objects, with header and first sections of standardized data collection form.
form_title
  • ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF INFORMATION (Re Sightings of Unidentified Aerial Objects)
  • PROJECT "SIGN"
dates1948-12-03 | Date of sighting (filled in on form)
locations
  • Fairfield-Suisun AFB Control tower | Ground location of sighting
  • Fairfield, California | City/town
  • 5.5 miles east of town of Fairfield | Distance and direction from town
  • North latitude 38 degrees 16 minutes | Coordinates
  • West longitude 121 degrees 56 minutes | Coordinates
  • 50 feet above ground level | Height above ground in control tower
time_details2015 hours Pacific Standard Time | Time of sighting (24-hour clock)
observationsObject sighted by personnel in Fairfield-Suisun AFB Control tower
form_sections_visible
  • Section 1: Date of sighting: 3 December 1948
  • Section 2: Time of sighting (Zonal by 24 hr clock): 2015 hours Pacific Standard Time
  • Section 3: Where sighted (Ground and Air subsections)
  • Initial data fields for location documentation
page_notes
  • This is page 1 of the standardized Project SIGN data collection form
  • Form is used to organize information about unidentified aerial object sightings
  • Provides structured format for military intelligence reporting

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL (visible)
page_descriptionContinuation of Project SIGN Essential Elements of Information form, page 2, detailing distance, positioning, and time in sight data for unidentified object sighting.
form_sections_visible
  • Section 3(b)(3): Clock position of object from observer's aircraft - Not applicable
  • Section 3(b)(4): Latitude and longitude - Not applicable
  • Section 3(c): Sea (Latitude/longitude, proximity to land) - Not applicable
  • Section 4: Number of objects - One object was sighted
  • Section 4(a): Formation type (if any) - One object was sighted (sketch if possible)
  • Section 5: Distance of object from observer
  • Section 5(a): Laterally or horizontally - The object was first sighted at a distance of two miles, proceeded toward the observer and passed within 500-800 yards of the tower, then climbed out of sight
  • Section 5(b): Angle of elevation from horizon - Approximately 20 degrees when first sighted, then climbed out of sight
  • Section 5(c): Altitude - Altitude was 500 to 1000 feet when first sighted, then climbed out of sight at approximately 20,000 feet
  • Section 6: Time in sight - Approximately 25 seconds
observations
  • Object maintained consistent altitude parameters during initial sighting phase
  • Clear angular measurements provided by observer
  • Specific distance measurements from control tower reference point documented
page_notes
  • Page 2 of Project SIGN Essential Elements of Information form
  • Form continues systematic data collection about object characteristics and observer location

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doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL (visible)
page_descriptionFinal page (page 3) of Project SIGN Essential Elements of Information form detailing object appearance, flight direction, and tactical maneuvers.
form_sections_visible
  • Section 7: Appearance of object
  • Section 7(a): Color - Object was a colorless white light
  • Section 7(b): Shape (sketch if possible) - Round light 30 inches in diameter
  • Section 7(c): Apparent construction (translucent) - Looked like a searchlight with the light intensity of a runway light
  • Section 7(d): Size
  • - (1) Estimated Size: Approximately 30 inches diameter
  • - (2) Size as it appeared from observer's view (Compared to known object): About the size of a 30-inch diameter searchlight
  • Section 8: Direction of flight - NNE to SSE
  • Section 9: Tactics or maneuvers
  • - 9(a): Vertical ascent or descent, horizontal, oscillating, fluttering, evasive, aggressive, erratic, etc.
  • - Came over horizon from altitude of 500 to 1000 feet and when opposite the control tower seemed to slow down then climbed to about 3,000 feet, returned to horizon and then climbed almost vertically out of sight at an altitude estimated to be 20,000 feet. See description contained in statement in paragraph 8 of the General section below.
observations
  • Object exhibited distinct vertical climb behavior after horizontal approach phase
  • Light characteristics similar to known runway searchlight
  • Observable diameter approximately 30 inches
  • Maintained consistent white colorless appearance throughout sighting
page_notes
  • This is the final page of the Project SIGN essential elements form
  • Completes the structured military intelligence report on the unidentified object
  • References "General section" for additional descriptive details

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionPage 4 of Project SIGN form with sections on exhaust evidence and light properties.
observations
  • No exhaust was observed | evaluated for color, length, width, odor, evaporation rate
  • No trail observed with spurts or sound
  • No clouds were present where the object climbed
  • No clouds were between observer and object at any time
  • Object itself resembled a light
  • Object shone with the brightness of a high-intensity runway light
  • Object was a steady light | did not blink on and off in relation to speed

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionPage 5 of Project SIGN form with sections on support, propulsion, control and stability.
observations
  • No wings were observed on the object
  • No fuselage was observed
  • No vertical jet was observed
  • No rotating cylinder or cone was observed
  • No aerostatic lift condition (balloon or dirigible) was observed
  • No propeller or jet was observed
  • No rotor was observed
  • No aerodynamic vanes (flapping or oscillating, Katzmayor effect) were observed
  • No visible exhaust or jet openings were observed
  • No fins were observed

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doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionPage 6 of Project SIGN form with sections on air ducts, speed, sound, antenna, and manner of disappearance.
observations
  • No stabilizers of any kind were observed
  • No slots were observed
  • No duct openings were observed
  • Came over the horizon from NNW at approximately 400 MPH aloud to approximately 200 MPH and then climbed at 400-500 MPH out of sight
  • No sound of any kind was heard by the observer | continuous whine, buzz, roar, whistle, whoosh tested
  • No sound was heard | intermittent tested
  • No radio antenna of any description was observed
  • The object did not explode
  • No fragments were observed or could be found from the object
  • No other physical evidence of the object could be found
assessmentsObject climbed out of sight in a clear sky | manner of disappearance

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doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionPage 7 of Project SIGN form with observer identification and reliability assessment.
people
  • Joseph Don Delafayette | Sgt | AP 12106504 | Honorably discharged from service 6 December 1948 | observer
  • Bruce Marlin McFarland | Pfe | AP 16276687 | observer
organizations190th AACS Squadron | 190th AACS Squadron at Fairfield-Suisun AFB, California | employing organization
observationsMcFarland - Control tower operator | USAF | three years experience as radio announcer and announcer of sporting events prior to military service
assessments
  • Both observers are considered fully reliable, competent airmen by their fellow NCO's | reliability determination
  • Both observers are considered competent, reliable and psychologically stable | general assessment
  • AACS officer in charge considers them high type individuals fully qualified both mentally and physically for control tower duty; they are considered competent, reliable observers psychologically stable
  • Pfe McFarland has a General Classification Test Score of 143

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doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionPage 8 of Project SIGN form with additional observer assessment and notes.
observations
  • Both observers are required by high physical requirements to know colors | color determination ability
  • Observers are constantly required to estimate the speed of moving aircraft in the course of their normal duties | speed estimation ability
  • Observers are constantly required to estimate the size and distance of objects in the course of their normal duties | distance/size estimation ability
assessments
  • Both observers are considered competent, reliable and psychologically stable | sightings in general
  • No police record on the observers | Police Department verification
  • No FBI records on the observers | FBI records verification
  • AACS officer in charge considers both observers high type individuals fully qualified both mentally and physically for control tower duty; considered competent, reliable observers psychologically stable | employer verification

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionPage 9 of Project SIGN form with interrogation details, radar section, and weather information.
observations
  • Attention was drawn to objects by motion | Yes
  • Attention was drawn to objects by glint of light | Yes
  • Attention was drawn to objects by sound | No
  • No other witnesses could be found; object was in view too short a time to obtain observations of other personnel
assessments
  • Both observers are considered competent, reliable and psychologically stable | interrogation assessment
  • Pfe McFarland has a General Classification Test Score of 143
  • No radar sightings of the object were made or could be obtained | radar sightings section
  • 3 December 1948 at 2030 Pacific Standard Time, Fairfield-Suisun Air Force Base: Ceiling 3000 feet scattered 15 miles visibility, 1014.6 millibars, temperature 41 degrees, dew point 32 degrees F, wind 10 MPH from the west, altimeter setting 29.95 inches | weather conditions
observationsWinds aloft sequence for 0324W December 1948 follows: SWT 23 02312 2513 22809 2109 43215 3616 65017 3619 82920 2923 03022 29017 42823 | wind information

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doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionPage 10 of Project SIGN form with instructions for evidence collection and object description.
observations
  • No flying was scheduled or observed in the vicinity of the Fairfield-Suisun Air Force Base at the time of the observation | local flight schedules
  • A winds-aloft balloon was released 35-45 minutes prior to the sighting and was lost from view 10 minutes after release | possible testing devices released
  • Object made no apparent contact with the earth and no contacts could be found | earth contact check
  • Object did not come sufficiently near known objects to obtain radioactivity readings | radioactivity check
  • Object appeared to be a round light 30 inches in diameter | physical description with sketch
  • Annotated photographs and diagrams of the Fairfield-Suisun Air Force Base are attached as enclosures 1 and 2 to this report | supporting documentation

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doc_typeform
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionPage 11 of Project SIGN form conclusion with signed statement.
observations
  • Object did not contact the earth
  • The object maneuvered as described in statement contained in enclosure 3 and indicated in enclosures 1 and 2 to this report | maneuvers section
  • One object was sighted | formation section
  • Statement attached as enclosure 3 to this report | signed statement
  • No fragments or other physical evidence of the object were obtained | physical evidence
peopleArthur Contadi Jr. | Major, USAF | Chief of Intelligence | document signature
organizationsUSAF | signatory authority

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doc_typephotograph
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionAerial photograph of Fairfield-Suisun Air Force Base with numbered annotations indicating observation points and direction of object movement.
observations
  • Photograph shows aerial view of Fairfield-Suisun Air Force Base with multiple buildings, runways, and structures
  • Three numbered points marked on photograph: (1) in upper right area, (2) in right area, (3) in lower left area with vehicles
  • Additional notation showing arrow indicating direction of observation
  • Control tower visible in photograph as focal point for observers' vantage point

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statushas_content
doc_typememo
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
page_descriptionOffice Memorandum from AACS A-2 regarding unidentified flying object sighting in Newfoundland.
dates
  • 1949-01-24 | Office Memorandum date
  • 1949-01-04 | Date of sighting observation
peopleCharles C. Robinson | Captain, USAF | originator
organizations
  • Chief, Intelligence Division, MATS | recipient
  • AACS/A-2/CCR/mlb/2113 | office designation
  • 1805th AACS Group | Newfoundland | source of information
  • Newfoundland Base Command | notifying authority
  • Goosebay AACS Squadron | information relay point
locationsIndian House Lake | Canada | sighting location
observations
  • Unidentified object flying over Indian House Lake, Canada on 1802 hours, 4 January 1949
  • Bright lights were emitted from object
  • Light travelled exceedingly fast and was only part sighted, not object itself
  • Shooting star or meteor was deduction of Indian House personnel who passed information to headquarters via Goosebay AACS Squadron
assessmentsObject or light were not sighted again | follow-up observation

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionWeather Department report from Hawkins Field, Jackson, Mississippi regarding flying disc observation.
dates
  • 1949-01-05 | Report date
  • 1949-01-01 | Sighting date, 1700 hours
people
  • Thomas A. Nash | Airport Manager, Dixie Airport | 402 Mitchell Ave., Jackson, Mississippi | observer
  • Mrs. Thomas A. Nash | 402 Mitchell Ave., Jackson, Mississippi | observer
  • Mrs. T. A. DeGilivie | Housewife | 2777 Kings Hwy, Jackson, Mississippi | observer
organizations
  • Hawkins Field | Jackson, Mississippi | reporting location
  • Weather Department 26-41 | reporting agency
  • Dixie Airport | Jackson, Mississippi | observation location
  • USAF | Air Material Command | recipient
locations2 miles east of Jackson, Mississippi | sighting location
observations
  • Object sighted two miles east of Jackson, Mississippi at 1700 hours, 1 January 1949
  • Shape: Cigar like, not unlike sleeve target
  • Size: Approximately 60 feet long and 10 feet diameter at the front tapering to the rear
  • Color: Dark blue or black
  • Speed: Approximately 200 MPH when first sighted, then accelerated to approximately 400 to 500 MPH
  • Heading: West, turning to South to Southwest
  • Maneuvering: Not noticed
  • Altitude: 1500 to 1600 feet, then gradual climb
  • Sound: Roar
  • Exhaust trail: None
assessmentsObservers from Gulfport, Miss. came to Jackson area; observation of private aircraft making approach for landing at Dixie Airport when object was first sighted; after landing, observer called control tower at Hawkins Field to find out if object landed there and if so to find out its identity; control tower reported incident to Base Headquarters | general remarks

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doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionContinuation of Jackson, Mississippi flying disc report with conclusions and distribution information.
peopleBenjamin H. Cole | Captain, USAF | Commanding | author
organizations
  • Chief of Staff, United States Air Force | Washington 25, D.C., ATTN: Director of Intelligence | distribution
  • Military Air Transport Service, Andrews Air Force Base | Washington 25, D.C. | distribution
  • Commanding Officer, 2104th Air Weather Group, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia | distribution
  • Commanding Officer, 2164th Air Weather Squadron, Brookley Air Force Base, Mobile, Alabama | distribution
  • 2104th Air Weather Group, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia | distribution
  • Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma | distribution
enclosures
  • Weather Report | enclosure 1
  • Sketch of Object | enclosure 2

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doc_typereport
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionJackson weather data with wind aloft measurements.
dates1949-01-05 | Report generation date
observations
  • Weather data for Jackson, Mississippi location
  • Two Jackson Weather station identifiers listed:
  • - 1530C JACKSON WEATHER F180-4G 15+ 175/ 55/351/T/003/E350-C
  • - 1730C JACKSON WEATHER N160B 15+ 169/52/2911/002/BINOVC
  • Winds aloft measurements at various altitudes:
  • - 2000 feet: 200 degrees, 10 knots
  • - 4000 feet: 270 degrees, 10 knots
  • - 6000 feet: 270 degrees, 15 knots
  • - 8000 feet: 270 degrees, 20 knots
  • - 10000 feet: 270 degrees, 15 knots
  • - 12000 feet: 270 degrees, 20 knots
  • - 14000 feet: 270 degrees, 20 knots
  • - 16000 feet: 270 degrees, 20 knots
  • - 20000 feet: 275 degrees, 55 knots

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionLargely illegible document page with faint text and classification markings.
redactions
  • Most of page content is illegible or severely faded, with only classification stamps and file markings visible
  • Two circular stamps visible at bottom indicating processing/classification
  • Page contains what appears to be a distribution or processing table but text is too faded to reliably transcribe

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statushas_content
doc_typesketch
classificationRESTRICTED
page_descriptionHand-drawn sketches of the observed object showing two views: side profile and rear view.
observations
  • Object depicted in side view (top sketch): elongated cigar or fuselage-like shape tapering at both ends, labeled as 60 feet total length with 10 feet height at front
  • Object depicted in rear/front view (bottom sketch): oval or elliptical shape, labeled as 10 feet diameter
  • Notation indicates "REAR VIEW" for the bottom sketch
  • Reference notation "NCL 2" appears at bottom of page
assessmentsSketches correspond to eyewitness descriptions of cigar-shaped object approximately 60 feet long with 10-foot diameter at front tapering to rear

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSecret (marked)
page_descriptionUSAF report on observation of an object in the atmosphere from 1701st Air Transport Wing, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
dates1948-11-17 | Date and time of sighting
people
  • 1st Lt. James Toomey | Radio Operator | USAF 1701st Air Transport Wing | witness/observer
  • S/Sgt Onno C. Blink | AF 20715676, Radio Operator | USAF crew stationed Edmonton, Alberta, Canada | witness
organizations
  • 1701st Air Transport Wing | USAF Continental Division
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base | USAF
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
locations117°30'W Longitude, 56°10'N Latitude | sighting location in Canada
observations
  • One egg-shaped object with a tail observed
  • Approximately 50 feet in height tapering to a point at the tail
  • Bright flaming orange in color
  • Speed unknown
  • Heading: South West
  • Overcast weather with cloud tops at approximately 4500 feet MSL
  • High deck of thin broken stratus clouds at approximately 12,000 feet
assessmentsNone explicitly stated on this page
referencesSecret Letter dated 20 October from MATS Headquarters | subject: Reporting of Information on Flying Discs
redactionsHandwritten markings at top of page (classification markings)
quotesNone on this page

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionHAMMA Form No. 10-530 from Olmsted Flight Service Center at Olmsted Air Force Base, Middletown, Pennsylvania, dated 13 December 1948, reporting unidentified flying objects.
dates
  • 1948-12-13 | Report date
  • 1948-12-11 | Date of sighting
  • 1948-12-11 22:45 | Time of sighting (2245 hours)
peopleNone listed on this section of the form
organizations
  • Olmsted Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Olmsted Air Force Base | Middletown, Pennsylvania
  • Commanding General, Air Materiel Command | Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio
  • Strategic Air Command | USAF
  • Air Defense Command | USAF
  • Tactical Air Command | USAF
  • Air Training Command | USAF
  • Air University | USAF
  • Alaskan Air Command | USAF
  • Air Transport Command | USAF
locations
  • Olmsted Air Force Base | Middletown, Pennsylvania
  • 40 miles northwest of Martinsburg, West Virginia | sighting location
  • 12 o'clock position approximately 20 miles in front of aircraft | clock position of object
  • Approximately 39°06'N 78°20'W | latitude and longitude
observations
  • Aircraft type: C-45P
  • Aircraft speed: 150 mph
  • Aircraft altitude: 9500 feet
  • Aircraft heading: 125 degrees
  • Object appeared as brilliant flare in the sky
  • Red to Blue to Red color observed
  • Shape resembled parachute flare
  • Altitude 10,000-11,000 feet
  • Time in sight: one (1) minute
  • Direction of flight: appeared to be stationary
assessmentsNone explicitly stated on this page
references
  • FS Regulation 200-4 dated 2 November 1948
  • Letter from Headquarters, USAF dated 6 February 1948
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone on this page

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statusno_content

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionContinuation of flying objects report form detailing observations and characteristics of unidentified object sighting on 13 December 1948.
dates1948-12-13 | Report date
observations
  • Sea: Not applicable
  • Number of objects: One (1)
  • Formation type: No formation
  • Distance of object from observer: Twenty miles in front of aircraft
  • Laterally or horizontally: Laterally
  • Angle of elevation from horizon: 5 degrees
  • Altitude: 10,000-11,000 feet
  • Time in sight: one (1) minute
  • Color: Red to Blue to Red
  • Shape: Resembled to parachute flare
  • Apparent construction: No opinion
  • Size: undetermined
  • Direction of flight: Appeared to be stationary
  • Tactics or maneuvers: None
  • Evidence of exhaust: None
  • Color of smoke: None
  • Length and width: None
  • Odor: Unknown
  • Rate of evaporation: Unknown
  • Does trail vary with sound: None
  • Effect on clouds: No clouds - unlimited ceiling
  • Lights: Object appeared as a brilliant flare in the sky
assessmentsNone explicitly stated on this page
referencesNone on this page
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone on this page

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statusno_content

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionContinuation of unidentified flying objects report dated 13 December 1948, including support information, propulsion, control and stability details, and relative information about the observer.
dates1948-12-13 | Report date
peopleCapt O. M. Legg | Captain | USAF | observer
organizations
  • Air Rescue Service | USAF
  • USAF | military service
observations
  • Support: Not visible
  • Propulsion: Object appeared to be stationary
  • Propeller or jet: Unknown
  • Rotor: Unknown
  • Aerodynamic vanes: Unknown
  • Visible exhaust or jet openings: None visible
  • Control and stability: Unknown
  • Fins: None visible
  • Stabilizers: Unknown (size, shape, location all unknown)
  • Air Ducts: Unknown (slots and duct openings unknown)
  • Speed - MPH: Appeared to be stationary
  • Sound: Unknown
  • Was any radio antenna to be observed: None observed
  • Manner of disappearance: Similar to a flare burning out
  • Explode: Unknown possibility of fragments and other physical evidence
  • Faded from view: Yes
  • Disappeared behind obstacle: No
assessmentsNone explicitly stated on this page
referencesNone on this page
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone on this page

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statushas_content
doc_typetransmission_record
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionTransmission record with date and time stamp "TRANSMITTED Dec 13 3 53 PM '48" indicating when a flying objects report was sent.
dates
  • 1948-12-13 | Date of transmission
  • 1948-12-13 15:53 | Time of transmission (3:53 PM)
observationsNone readable on this page
assessmentsNone on this page
referencesNone on this page
redactionsMajority of page text is too faint to read reliably
quotesNone readable on this page

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionContinuation of flying objects report form detailing observer information, witnesses, radar sightings, and general weather conditions for 13 December 1948 report.
dates1948-12-13 | Report date
people
  • Capt R. H. Cassidy | Captain | Air Rescue Service Headquarters | witness
  • S/Sgt T.P. Turner | Staff Sergeant | Air Rescue Service, Fort Bragg, N.C. | witness
organizations
  • Air Rescue Service | USAF
  • Headquarters, Air Rescue Service | Washington, D.C.
  • Fort Bragg | USAF location, North Carolina
observations
  • Headquarters: Air Rescue Service
  • Occupation: USAF
  • Place of Business: USAF
  • Hobbies: Not applicable
  • Ability to determine: Unknown
  • Reliability of observer: No opinion
  • Notes relative to observer on sightings in general: None
  • How attention was drawn to objects: Directly in flight path
  • Sound: Unknown
  • Motion: Stationary
  • Glint of light: Brilliant
  • Local flight schedules: Unknown
  • Possibility releases of testing devices: Unknown
  • If object contacted earth: Unknown
  • If object came sufficiently near other aircraft or known objects: Unknown
  • Obtain photographs: None
  • Not obtained: (stated)
  • Obtain fragments or physical evidence: None
  • Clear sky: 7 miles visibility
  • Winds aloft report: Not given
assessmentsNo opinion provided regarding interrogated person's intelligence and character
referencesNone on this page
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone on this page

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statushas_content
doc_typetransmission_record
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionTransmission record with faint date and time stamp "TRANSMITTED Dec 13 3 53 PM '48" on a mostly illegible page.
dates
  • 1948-12-13 | Date of transmission
  • 1948-12-13 15:53 | Time of transmission (3:53 PM)
observationsPage content too faint to reliably extract observations
assessmentsNone readable on this page
referencesNone readable on this page
redactionsMajority of page text is severely faded/illegible
quotesNone readable on this page

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statushas_content
doc_typeletter
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionDepartment of the Air Force letter from Headquarters United States Air Force, Washington, dated 6 February 1948, subject: Reporting of Information on Flying Discs.
dates1948-02-06 | Letter date
peopleC.P. Cabell | Brigadier General, U.S.A.F. | Chief, Air Intel. Req. Div., Director of Intelligence | author
organizations
  • Department of the Air Force | USAF
  • Headquarters United States Air Force | Washington
  • Commanding General, Strategic Air Command | recipient
  • Commanding General, Air Defense Command | recipient
  • Commanding General, Tactical Air Command | recipient
  • Commanding General, Air Training Command | recipient
  • Commanding General, Air University | recipient
  • Commanding General, Alaskan Air Command | recipient
  • Commanding General, Air Transport Command | recipient
  • Commanding General, Air Materiel Command | recipient
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base | Dayton, Ohio
  • Air Materiel Command | source of reports
observationsAny information pertaining to sightings of so-called flying discs will be forwarded directly to the Commanding General, Air Materiel Command, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio
assessments
  • Reports will be sent direct and not through ordinary channels
  • Copies of all such information may be supplied to Command Headquarters of the installation concerned
  • Every effort will be made to include specific items in reports: location and time, weather, witnesses' names and occupations and addresses, photographs if available, sketches of objects, details on sightings (number, shape, size, color, speed, heading, maneuverability, altitude, sound, exhaust trail, general remarks)
references
  • Previous Headquarters letter dated 20 December 1947 | subject: Flying Discs
  • FS Regulation 200-4 dated 2 November 1948
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone on this page

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statushas_content
doc_typeletter
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionContinuation of Department of the Air Force letter regarding reporting of information on Flying Discs, dated 6 February 1948, with signature and authorization details.
dates
  • 1948-02-06 | Letter date
  • 1947-12-20 | Referenced previous Headquarters letter on Flying Discs
peopleC.P. Cabell | C.P. Cabell | Brigadier General, U.S.A.F. | Chief, Air Intel. Req. Div., Director of Intelligence | author/signatory
organizations
  • Air Materiel Command | USAF
  • Headquarters, Air Materiel Command | source of reports per earlier Headquarters letter dated 20 December 1947
observationsAir Materiel Command will furnish this Headquarters with such reports as are required by paragraph 4 of this Headquarters letter dated 20 December 1947, subject: Flying Discs
assessmentsAuthorization granted for Air Materiel Command to furnish reports per established procedures
referencesPrevious Headquarters letter dated 20 December 1947 | subject: Flying Discs, paragraph 4
redactionsNone visible
quotes"[signed] C.P. Cabell, C.P. Cabell, Brigadier General, U.S.A.F., Chief, Air Intel. Req. Div., Directorate of Intelligence"

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionMaxwell Flight Service Center report dated 2 January 1949 from Maxwell Air Force Base, Montgomery, Alabama, subject: Unidentified Flying Objects.
dates
  • 1949-01-02 | Report date
  • 1949-01-01 | Date of sighting (Two miles east of Jackson, Mississippi at 1700 hours)
people
  • Mr. Tom Rush | Civilian | Reported by Dixie Air Service | witness
  • Mrs. Willette Rush | Civilian, housewife and private pilot | wife of Tom Rush, ex-AAF pilot | witness
organizations
  • Maxwell Flight Service Center | USAF
  • Maxwell Air Force Base | Montgomery, Alabama
  • Commanding General, Air Materiel Command | recipient
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base | Ohio
  • Dixie Air Service | Jackson, Mississippi
  • Eglin Air Force Base | Florida
  • Pensacola NAS and Chevalier Field NAS | Florida
  • Whiting NAS | Florida
  • New Orleans NAS | Louisiana
  • Memphis NAS | Tennessee
  • New Orleans Air Route Traffic Control Center | contacted
locations
  • Maxwell Air Force Base | Montgomery, Alabama
  • Two (2) miles east of Jackson, Mississippi | sighting location at 1700 hours, 1 January 1949
observations
  • Weather at time: 1650Z weather sequence from Jackson estimated 18,000 feet broken clouds, visibility 15, temperature 52 degrees, surface wind southwest at 7 mph
  • Altimeter setting 30.03, remarks estimated 35,000 feet within broken
  • 1725C weather for Jackson was ceiling measured 15,000 feet overcast, visibility fifteen (15) miles, temperature 52 degrees point 2, wind south at one (1) mph, remarks breaks in the overcast
  • Witnesses: Tom Rush (ex-AAF pilot) and Mrs. Willette Rush
  • Sketches of objects configuration: To be forwarded
assessmentsNone explicitly stated on this page
references
  • Reference letter from Headquarters USAF subject: Reporting of Information on Flying Discs dated 6 February 1948
  • FS Regulation 200-4 dated 2 November 1948 subject: Unidentified Flying Objects
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone on this page

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionContinuation of flying objects report from Maxwell Flight Service Center dated 2 January 1949, detailing object sightings and characteristics observed by Tom and Willette Rush.
dates
  • 1949-01-02 | Report date
  • 1949-01-01 | Date of sighting
  • 1949-01-02 | Transmission date
people
  • Tom Rush | Civilian | ex-AAF pilot | witness
  • Willette Rush | wife of Tom Rush | housewife and private pilot | witness
organizations
  • Dixie Air Service | Jackson, Mississippi
  • Jackson Operations Office | coordinating organization
observations
  • Object Sighted, description:
  • (1) Number: One
  • (2) Shape: Cigar-shaped with short stubby wings, resembling a rocket, also reported later as resembling a sleeve tom-fighter
  • (3) Size: Estimated sixty (60) feet long
  • (4) Color: Dark Blue or black
  • (5) Speed: Initially estimated as 200 mph, then increasing to 5-600 mph
  • (6) Heading: West when first sighted, then southwest when last sighted
  • (7) Maneuverability: Apparently very maneuverable
  • (8) Altitude: 1500 feet
  • (9) Sound: Similar to a helicopter
  • (10) Exhaust trail: None visible
  • General remarks:
  • (1) When the object was first sighted and reported to Flight Service at Maxwell AF Base at 1735Z by the Jackson Operations Office, an attempt was made to investigate the object by calling all military airfields in the area from which a jet or rocket flight may have originated, or at which the object may have been sighted
  • (2) The following stations were contacted: Eglin AF Base Florida, Pensacola NAS and Chevalier Field NAS Florida, Whiting NAS Florida, New Orleans NAS Louisiana, Memphis NAS Tennessee, New Orleans Air Route Traffic Control Center was also contacted
assessmentsNone explicitly stated on this page
references
  • Investigation coordinated through Jackson Operations Office
  • Multiple military installations contacted for origin determination
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone on this page

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionContinuation of unidentified flying objects report from Maxwell dated 2 January 1949, detailing investigation procedures and special instructions for handling unidentified objects.
dates1949-01-02 | Report date
observations
  • Local flight schedules of commercial, private and military aircraft flying in vicinity at the time: Unknown
  • Possibility releases of testing devices in vicinity sent aloft by Ordnance, Navy, Air Force, Army, Weather Units, Research Organizations or any other: Unknown
  • If object contacted earth, obtain soil sampled within and without depression or spot where object landed for purposes of making comparison of soils: Unknown
  • If object came sufficiently near other aircraft or known objects, check surfaces with Geiger counters for possible radioactivity. Take comparison with other unaffected aircraft objects: Unknown
  • Obtain photographs: None
  • Not obtained
  • Obtain fragments or physical evidence where possible: None
assessmentsNone explicitly stated on this page
referencesNone on this page
redactionsNone visible
quotesNone on this page

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statushas_content
doc_typeform
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionSignature and distribution section of unidentified flying objects report dated 13 December 1948, with handwritten signature and routing information.
dates1948-12-13 | Report date (from previous pages)
peopleJoseph L. McNeil | Lt. Colonel, USAF | Commanding | author/signatory
organizations
  • Chief of Staff, HQ USAF | recipient
  • Commander, MATS | recipient
  • CO, FS | recipient (Communications Specialist)
observationsNone on this page
assessmentsNone on this page
referencesDistribution: c/o to Ch of Staff, HQ USAF Commander, MATS, CO, FS
redactionsNone visible
quotes"[signed] Joseph L. McNeil, Lt. Colonel, USAF, Commanding"

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationnone visible
page_descriptionContinuation of a flying discs report from Maxwell Flight Service Center, discussing sightings at Jackson, Mississippi and New Orleans Air Route Traffic Control Center observations.
dates
  • 1949-01-02 | date of sighting at Jackson, Mississippi
  • 1949-01-03 | date of New Orleans Air Route Traffic Control Center report
peopleTom Rush | Maxwell Flight Service officer | USAF | mentioned as preparing sketches of observed object
organizations
  • Maxwell Flight Service Center | USAF | Maxwell AF Base, Alabama
  • New Orleans Air Route Traffic Control Center | civilian/FAA | traffic control facility
  • Jackson radio range | USAF | radio navigation facility in Mississippi
locations
  • Jackson, Mississippi | approximately 1800 feet altitude | east leg of radio range where Stinson aircraft was positioned
  • 40 miles south of Jackson, Mississippi | observation location for second sighting
  • New Orleans | Air Route Traffic Control Center location
observations
  • Object sighted by witnesses from Stinson civilian aircraft and photographs taken on camera were available at the time
  • Second object reported 40 miles south of Jackson, Mississippi seen by New Orleans Air Route Traffic Control Center
  • Object described as moving in distance
assessmentsReport based on second report from New Orleans ATC personnel that object had been sighted 40 miles south of Jackson
referencesPrevious communications with stations regarding flying discs observations
redactionsnone visible
quotes"No information was available at any of these stations." | regarding lack of data from other locations

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionOfficial USAF intelligence report on flying discs from 156th Weather Squadron at Chanute Air Force Base, Illinois, dated December 9, 1948.
dates1948-12-09 | date of report and sighting
people
  • Captain | mentioned as observer at Chanute AFB
  • Sergeant Montag | observer mentioned in observations
  • Major, USAF | signature line (name partially visible)
organizations
  • 156th Weather Squadron | USAF | Chanute Air Force Base, Illinois
  • Chanute Air Force Base | USAF | Chanute Field, Illinois
  • USAF Air Materiel Command | intelligence direction
locations
  • Chanute Air Force Base | Chanute Field, Illinois | 0600ASZ (sighting location)
  • 15/15 Weather Squadron | Chanute AFB, Illinois | observer location
observations
  • One object sighted
  • Round shape
  • Undetermined size
  • Bright white color
  • Two tenths of distant sky within two to three seconds
  • Moving from north east toward south south west
  • Undetermined maneuverability
  • Undetermined altitude
  • No sound
  • Exhaust trail undetermined
assessments
  • Object sighted to north east moving to south south west that resembled a skyrocket or meteor but was moving upward at about 15-20 degree angle
  • Object appeared to get larger and was leaving a trail
  • In about two-three seconds it disappeared
  • The object was round and moved very fast
references2026 Air Weather Group TWX 456 dated 19 November 1948
redactionsnone visible
quotes"Object sighted to north east moving to south south west that resembled a skyrocket or meteor but was moving upward at about 15-20 degree angle" | general remarks section

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionCover page with observer statements and signature block for Chanute AFB flying discs report.
dates1948-12-09 | report date
people
  • Sergeant J. E. Doty | Captain, USAF | witness/observer
  • Sergeant E. E. Montag | witness, assigned to 16th Weather Squadron
  • Russell P. Kelley | signatory (handwritten signature visible)
organizations
  • 16th Weather Squadron | USAF | Chanute Air Force Base, Illinois
  • Chanute Air Force Base | USAF | Chanute Field, Illinois
locationsChanute Air Force Base | Illinois | observation location
observationsNone detailed on this page
assessmentsnone visible
referencesnone visible
redactionsnone visible
quotes"Statements of observers are inclosed herewith." | indicates attached witness statements

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statushas_content
doc_typestatement
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionSworn statement from Sergeant James E. Doty of 16th Weather Squadron describing a sky rocket or meteor sighting on December 9, 1948.
dates
  • 1948-12-09 | date of sighting at approximately 12:36 hours
  • 1948-12-09 | date statement was made
people
  • James E. Doty | Sergeant, USAF, AF 1717164 | Weather Observer, 16th Weather Squadron
  • Sgt. Eugene S. Montag | mentioned as companion witness
  • Captain Rush T. Kelley | Assistant Base Weather Officer, Chanute AFB
  • M. Sgt. Robert W. Pillman | Duty Forecaster, Base Weather Station
  • James S. Doty | signatory
organizations
  • 16th Weather Squadron | USAF | Chanute Air Force Base
  • Chanute Air Force Base | USAF | Chanute Field, Illinois
  • Base Weather Station | USAF | Chanute AFB
locations
  • Chanute Air Force Base | Chanute Field, Illinois | location of sighting
  • Base Weather Station | Chanute AFB, Illinois | location where object was reported
observations
  • On 8 December 1948 at approximately 1236 hours while walking with Sgt. Eugene S. Montag toward the Base Weather Station, the observer noticed what appeared to be a sky rocket or meteor
  • Object heading upwards at about 15-20 degree angle coming from the north east to the south south west
  • Object was white in color, very bright and moved about two to three tenths of the sky and then disappeared
  • Object did not appear to be a falling star
  • Object appeared to be three or four times as large as a star
assessmentsThe observer did not believe it was a falling star based on its appearance and movement characteristics
referencesnone visible
redactionsnone visible
quotes"The object did not appear to be a star because it was three or four times as large as a star and it seemed to be closer to us than a star would be. It was heading from the north east toward the south south west and was moving upwards at about 15-20 degree angle." | James E. Doty statement

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statushas_content
doc_typestatement
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionSworn statement from Sergeant Eugene S. Montag describing observation of sky rocket or meteor at Chanute Air Force Base on December 8, 1948.
dates
  • 1948-12-08 | date of observation at approximately 1236 hours
  • 1948-12-09 | date statement was made
people
  • Eugene S. Montag | Sergeant, USAF, AF 1630708 | Weather Observer, 16th Weather Squadron
  • James E. Doty | fellow witness, Captain USAF
  • Captain Rush T. Kelley | Assistant Base Weather Officer
  • Eugene S. Montag | signatory
organizations
  • 16th Weather Squadron | USAF | Chanute Air Force Base, Illinois
  • Chanute Air Force Base | USAF | Chanute Field, Illinois
  • Base Weather Station | USAF | observation location
locations
  • Chanute Air Force Base | Chanute Field, Illinois | sighting location
  • Base Weather Station | Chanute AFB | where object was reported
observations
  • On 8 December 1948 at approximately 1236 hours while walking with James E. Doty from the 16th Weather Squadron toward the Base Weather Station, the observer noticed what appeared to be a sky rocket or meteor
  • Object was heading upwards about a 15 degree angle coming from the north east to the south south east
  • Object was white in color, very bright and moved about two to three tenths of the sky and then disappeared
  • Object did not appear to be a falling star
assessmentsThe object did not appear to be a falling star based on its characteristics
referencesnone visible
redactionsnone visible
quotes"This object was heading upwards about a 15 degree angle coming from the north east to the south south east. The object was white in color, very bright and moved about two to three tenths of the sky and then disappeared." | Eugene S. Montag statement

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionContinuation page with observations and remarks about sightings in the atmosphere, including details about maneuvering, altitude, and a reference to an Edmonton to Kittiegazuit sighting.
datesdate references not visible on this page
people
  • George P. Brenner | Capt. USAF, Commanding | signatory/author
  • Director of Intelligence (Edqs.MATS Attn) | recipient
  • Chief, Intelligence Division (Cmdr.MATS Attn) | recipient
organizations
  • MATS (Military Air Transport Service) | USAF
  • Intelligence Division | USAF
locations
  • Edmonton, Alberta, Canada | departure point for flight
  • Kittiegazuit, N. W. T., Canada | destination of flight
  • test range | general location mentioned
observations
  • (7) Maneuverability - Appeared to be in a shallow dive
  • (8) Altitude - Approximately 1,000 feet
  • (9) Sound - None
  • (10) Exhaust trail or not - Yes
  • Object was sighted on the first leg of a flight from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada to Kittiegazuit, N. W. T., Canada while flying at 7,000 ft. MSL on top of an overcast
  • Object was momentarily sighted above a rock or broken status clouds
  • Object seemed to be a bright flaming orange object and illuminated the sky momentarily behind it
assessmentsnone visible
referencesMATS Intelligence Division distribution references
redactionsnone visible
quotes"Object was sighted on the first leg of a flight from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada to Kittiegazuit, N. W. T., Canada while flying at 7,000 ft. MSL on top of an overcast. The object was momentarily sighted above a rock of broken status clouds. It seemed to be a bright flaming orange object and illuminated the sky momentarily behind it." | Remarks section

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statushas_content
doc_typereport
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionBrief report section describing observations of an atmospheric object with maneuvering and altitude characteristics, signed by George P. Brenner.
datesobservation date not visible on this page
people
  • George P. Brenner | Capt. USAF, Commanding | signatory
  • Edqs.MATS Attn: Dir.of Intelligence | recipient
  • Cmdr.MATS Attn: Chief, Intelligence Division | recipient
organizationsMATS (Military Air Transport Service) | USAF
locationsnone visible on this page
observations
  • (7) Maneuverability - Appeared to be in a shallow dive
  • (8) Altitude - Approximately 18,000 feet
  • (9) Sound - None
  • (10) Exhaust trail or not - Yes
assessmentsnone visible
referencesnone visible
redactionsnone visible
quotesnone visible

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statushas_content
doc_typememorandum
classificationSECRET
page_descriptionHeadquarters USAF memorandum dated October 26, 1948 directing reporting of flying discs sightings, requiring investigation and photographic evidence emphasis.
dates
  • 1948-10-26 | date of memorandum
  • 1948-02-06 | referenced USAF letter date
  • 1948-10-26 | dispatch date on circular stamp
people
  • James F. Rhodes | Major, USAF | Asst Adjutant General
  • Major General Kurtz | signatory (referenced as "BY COMMAND OF MAJOR GENERAL KURTZ")
  • [name partially visible in handwritten notes] | recipient/distribution
organizations
  • Headquarters USAF | Washington 25, D.C.
  • Airways and Air Communication Service | USAF | Washington 25, D.C.
  • Intelligence and Security branch | USAF
locations
  • Washington 25, D.C. | Headquarters location
  • United States and Alaska | geographic scope of reporting directive
  • outside United States and Alaska | alternate reporting location
observationsnone visible on this page
assessments
  • Paraphrase of message is not required when handled as secret correspondence
  • USAF letter of February 6, 1948 is further modified to include reporting of all sightings of flying discs whether they occur within or outside the United States and Alaska
references
  • TWX (teletype exchange) message from Headquarters, USAF
  • USAF letter of 6 February 1948
  • Previous flying discs directive emphasizing photograph evidence
redactionsPortion of text at bottom is heavily redacted/faded
quotes"FURTHER TO THIS HQS LETTER OF SIX FEB ONE NINE FOUR EIGHT SUBJ SHOWLN REPORTING INFORMATION ON FLYING DISCS PD RESEARCH REVEALS GROUPS OF SIGHTINGS OCCUR AT PERIODIC INTERVALS WITH DURATION OF ONE AND INTERVAL INCIDENT JUST PRECEDING AND JUST FOLLOWING YOUR COMMAND BE PARTICULARLY ALERTED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS OF UNIDENTIFIED AERIAL OBJECTS DIRECT TO HQAGO DASH THREE OAD JUST FOLLOWING INVESTIGATIONS ACTION WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON PHOTOGRAPHIC EVIDENCES" | body of memorandum
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