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USAF (Air Materiel Command / Project Sign) SECRET

Check-List - Unidentified Flying Objects: Incident Summaries #101-172

Date 18 February 1948 onward
Location Norcatur, Kansas; various U.S. locations
Type incident summary
Pages 178

Continuation of UFO incident checklist forms covering incidents #101-172. Incident #101 documents a mushroom-shaped object observed over Norcatur, Kansas at an estimated altitude of 30-35 miles, accompanied by explosions and bluish-white smoke.

Project Signincident checklist1948meteorNorcatur Kansas

An F-51 pilot chased a maneuvering light over Fargo for 27 minutes and couldn't catch it. Fifty to sixty shiny objects streaked over Memphis in a straight line while an astronomer at the Cincinnati Observatory said they weren't meteors but couldn't say what they were. Near the U.S. Capitol, a pilot broke off pursuit of an object flying against the upper winds because he'd have entered prohibited airspace over the White House. Volume two of Project Sign (incidents #101-172, March-October 1948) is where the Air Force's UFO investigation hits its stride. The witnesses are now military pilots, air traffic controllers, and astronomers. The volume opens with something new: a comparative analysis section that cross-references earlier sightings by date and geometry, showing investigators were actively hunting for patterns.

  • The comparative analysis section (pages 3-15) represents an early systematic attempt to cross-reference and find patterns across UFO sightings, including astronomical position calculations and geographic plotting
  • The Memphis incident involved 50-60 shiny objects traveling in a straight line at extreme altitude and high speed; Dr. Paul Herget of the Observatory of Cincinnati expressed "serious doubt" they were meteors but could offer no identification
  • An object near the U.S. Capitol flew against prevailing upper winds (south to north despite north-northwest upper winds) at approximately 100 MPH, with the pilot breaking off pursuit to avoid prohibited airspace
  • A sighting at Neuburg AFB, Germany (Incident 190 from Volume 3 cross-reference) involved six military personnel observing a silver object at 40,000 feet for 45 minutes that appeared larger than an F-80 jet flying at 25,000 feet between the object and observers
  • The Columbus, Ohio attorney (Incident 154) provided four sketches of a shape-shifting object that changed from parallelogram to circular and back, moving at only 15 MPH with a thin trail of smoke
  • The Van Nuys object (Incident 163) displayed "bluish luminescence like fluorescent lamp" that changed to orange at dusk and was observed for approximately one hour before it "snapped off like a lamp"
  • The Gorman dogfight (Incident 172) is one of the most famous early cases: F-51 pilot George Gorman pursued a round, clear-white light that outmaneuvered his fighter through climbing, diving, and turning maneuvers for 27 minutes over Fargo, reaching altitudes from 1,000 to 14,000 feet
  • Multiple incidents note the absence of sound, exhaust trails, and conventional propulsion indicators
  • Dr. Hynek of OSU and Dr. Lincoln LaPaz were being consulted on potential meteor explanations, indicating growing scientific involvement
  • The British steamer Talma's report of a luminous wheel-like phenomenon in the Gulf of Martaban was included in the comparative analysis, suggesting investigators were considering ocean phenomena as related
178 pages
page001
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

partial_content

## classification

DECLASSIFIED

## doc_type

Cover/Index Page

## page_description

Outer envelope/cover of document bundle. Shows declassification authority box and internal document reference. Contains partial text visible on enclosed document.

## references

details
  • Authority: NND 917033
  • Serial number visible: 00196?57
  • Subject: Flying Discs (partial)
  • Date reference: 20C fa+.ed h- 21 -lo
page002
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

minimal_content

## classification

DECLASSIFIED (heavily redacted with "SECRET" stamps)

## page_description

Back side of cover. Mostly blank with classification markings and page reference.

## references

details
  • Document reference: 020249_30014
  • Filing notation: S 7?-1(126)
  • Classification stamps: RESTRICTED, SECRET (multiple instances)
  • Page reference: P 615
page003
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

partial_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## page_description

Fragment of checklist form showing partial field entries and observations related to unidentified flying objects.

## observations

details
  • Bluish-white construction/appearance noted
  • Weather conditions mentioned
  • Photographs of disappearance referenced
  • Explosion visible in sky noted
  • Aftermath observations recorded
page004
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

full_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## doc_type

Incident Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects (Form)

## dates

details
  • 18 February 1948
  • Time: 5:01 P.M.

## locations

details
  • Norcatur, Kansas
  • Observer address: Norton, Kansas
  • Observation location: Norcatur, Kansas

## people

detailsM. R. Arkbiel (observer, account taken from newspaper)

## observations

details
  • Number of objects: 4
  • Altitude: 30-35 miles above earth
  • Speed: N/S (not specified)
  • Direction of flight: N/S (not specified)
  • Sound: One big explosion followed by "afterwards a lot of little explosions"
  • Color: Bluish-white smoke smudge
  • Shape: Mushroom
  • Odor detected: N/S (not specified)
  • Apparent construction: Meteor
  • Exhaust trails: None; Bluish-white smoke smudge
  • Weather conditions: N/S (not specified)
  • Effect on clouds: N/S (not specified)
  • Sketches or photographs: Photo of vapor trail left in sky by explosion
  • Manner of disappearance: Disintegration

## assessments

details
  • Manner of disappearance: Disintegration
  • Expert remark references: Oscar Monnig of Texas Observers, Amateur Astronomy, 1010 Morningside Drive, Ft. Worth; offers "tangible proof that the fireball"

## references

details
  • Incident #101
  • Form reference indicated for follow-up documentation
page005
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

full_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## doc_type

Narrative Account / Witness Statement

## dates

details
  • 18 February 1948
  • Aftermath observations: Beginning April 24

## locations

details
  • Stockton, Kansas (14 miles west, 1 mile north off US 24)
  • Norton area (various witness locations)
  • Phillipsburg area

## people

details
  • Leland Sammons (witness, farmer living 14 miles west of Stockton)
  • Kenneth "Hays" (son of Floyd Hays, 14 miles east of Norton on US 36)
  • Ralph New (postmaster at Norcatur)

## observations

### Leland Sammons account:

details
  • Time: ~5 P.M.
  • Heard disturbance in chickens near hog-pen, 100 feet from house
  • Saw hovering object just above house
  • Object lowered over north end of house then settled toward ground
  • Shaped like funnel with pipe sticking from back
  • Wobbled around for an instant
  • Fire belching out, sucking back in
  • About 4 feet long, shaped like funnel
  • Pipe sticking at belly level
  • Sparks showered from it, fire increased rapidly
  • Took off north-westerly direction very fast, gaining altitude
  • Wife heard it leave, watched trail of smoke
  • Large cloud of smoke in sky, not more than 40 seconds after
  • Sound: great cloud of smoke and explosion heard
  • Ground spot: would have bare from rush of fire

### Kenneth Hays account:

details
  • Time: 5 to 5:30 P.M.
  • Riding horse in pasture south-west of his location
  • Heard something queer in sky
  • Saw comet-like object
  • Watched course, almost level but losing altitude slightly
  • Exploded with big cloud of smoke over Norton area
  • South of Prairie View
  • Ridden home a ways when sound/jar of explosion reached him
  • Wife home in house heard and felt something like truck striking house
  • Fire saw huge cloud of smoke about 40 minutes later

### Ralph New account:

details
  • Time: ~4:50 P.M.
  • Standing at front window of postoffice in Norcatur
  • Observed blinding flash as if someone taking flashlight picture
  • Located no camera users
  • Several men walking to street center looking up
  • High cloud of smoke directly overhead

## redactions

detailsSome text marked with redaction lines
page006
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

full_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## doc_type

Official Letter / Military Correspondence

## dates

details
  • 20 February 1948
  • Incident date: 18 February 1948, 4:00 P.M. (MST)

## locations

details
  • 323 W. Tenth St., Pueblo, Colorado (correspondence origin)
  • Norcatur, Kansas (incident location)

## organizations

detailsOffice of the Chief of Staff, U.S. Army, Washington D.C.

## observations

details
  • Object moving eastward across sky late afternoon of February 18
  • Reached position approximate to Norcatur, Kansas
  • Exploded, disrupted, or disappeared
  • Direction of progress: west to east
  • Explosion described as "terrific"

## assessments

details
  • Appearance is anomalous and may lend itself to other meteoric explanation
  • Earth and moon orbit sketch reveals peculiarity in connection with appearance
  • Meridional position of explosion at 2:20 P.M. (local time) considered
  • Line drawn at right angles across meridional position would intersect lunar orbit
  • West-to-east course of object extended into space toward moon orbit
  • Lunar orbit intersection near where moon would be 80-100 hours after explosion

## references

details
  • AP bulletin appearing in Pueblo CHIEFTAIN for February 18, 1948
  • Denver dateline information about object and meteor distinction
  • Chamberlin Observatory (Denver) astronomers assessment
  • Moon position: New moon at 9D 10H 2M February; First Quarter at 17D 8H M February

## quotes

details"while many would call this object a bolide - e.g. exploding meteor - the astronomers of Chamberlin Observatory (Denver) did not so assess it: it is said in the dispatch that these officials could offer no explanation of it."
page007
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

full_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## doc_type

Analysis/Speculation Letter

## dates

details
  • Reference to February 1948 incident
  • Historical references: February 1913, April 24, 1913, England

## people

details
  • WILLY LEY (rocketry expert referenced in margin notation)
  • Writer/analyst (not named on visible portion)

## observations

details
  • Object variously reported as "falling plane", "jet plane", "ball of fire"
  • Trail of smoke behind it
  • Explosion occurred as object reached higher velocity and elevation for take-off

## assessments

### Rocket hypothesis:

details
  • Object may have been rocket-type craft headed for moon
  • Would take about 100 hours for rocket-craft to negotiate distance from Earth to Moon
  • Army should collect similar reports on object trailing smoke and as ball of fire

### Space-craft speculation:

details
  • Writer considers various oddments of reports on "flying saucers"
  • Significance might be space-craft from worlds of space
  • Reports of "flying saucers" never seriously considered by science

### Historical comparison:

details
  • "Meteoric procession" crossed Toronto in February 1913
  • Number of groups of illuminated bodies in rigid formation
  • All pursuing course across same streak of earth's surface
  • If line projected backward would intersect moon's position at time of 1913 phenomenon
  • 1913 reports on dirigible aircraft appearance like zeppelins over England
  • Appearance terminated just prior to inferior conjunction of Venus April 24, 1913

### Celestial factors:

details
  • Times prior and after inferior conjunction of Venus prolific in reports of strange things in sky
  • Lights reported on moon from time to time back at least century
  • Moon possibly selected as base for launching rockets (suggested by some writers)

## references

details
  • ROCKETS, p. 192, diagram and notes (reference work cited)
  • Various oddments of reports on "flying saucers"
  • 1913 phenomenon occurred mid-path of series of reports on dirigible aircraft (zeppelins)
page008
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

partial_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## page_description

End of analysis letter and closing notation. Fragment showing final speculation and signature.

## people

details/s/ NORMAN GARRETT MARKHAM (signature)

## assessments

details
  • Possibility that moon is either inhabited or in use by other than human beings (remote)
  • Writer suggests watching moon for possible arrival of object in quarter at 80-100 hours after "its Departure"

## references

details
  • Notation: "It may do not harm to watch the moon for possible arrival of this thing in the quarter at 80 to 100 hours after 'its Departure'."
  • Initials: NGM
page009
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

full_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## doc_type

Comparative Analysis Letter / Memorandum

## dates

details
  • 14 March 1948
  • Incident date reference: 18 February 1948
  • Historical references: 24 June 1947, 13 October 1947, July 1947, January 7 1948

## locations

details
  • Norcatur, Kansas (18 February 1948 incident)
  • Boise, Idaho (24 June 1947)
  • Forest lookout location (3 July 1947)
  • Sonoma County, California (3 July 1947, near Fort Ross)
  • Cape Mendocino, California (14 July 1947)
  • Gulf of Martaban (British steamer Talma)
  • Oakland area (13 October 1947)
  • Pacific off Golden Gate (not before 13 October 1947)
  • Fort Ross area (14 July 1947)
  • Philipsburg area (reference)

## people

details
  • Norman G. Markham (MAIN HOTEL, Pueblo, Colo. - From)
  • Chief Signal Officer, U.S. Army, Washington D.C. (To)
  • Lt. Gov. Whitehead, Chief Justice Lambert (referenced observers, Boise 1947)
  • Ben Dobus (photographer, Oakland 13 October 1947)
  • A.J. Goldman (taxidriver, with Ben Dobus)

## organizations

details
  • MAIN HOTEL, Pueblo, Colo (originating location)
  • U.S. Army, Washington D.C. (addressed to)

## observations

### BOISE OBJECT (24 June 1947):

details
  • Time: 3:30 P.M. (beginning or ending)
  • Visible for 20 minutes
  • Western sky location
  • Comet-like appearance
  • Settled gradually toward horizon as planetary bodies set
  • Unknown nature

### HOLLIS "SHIP IN FLAMES" (3 July 1947):

details
  • Nine days after Boise sighting
  • Forest lookout named Earl Hollis at 4:00 P.M.
  • Sonoma County, California near Fort Ross
  • Appearance: "tanker in flames"
  • Soviet tanker ELBRUZ in vicinity, queried, found all right
  • Unexplained appearance

### CAPE MENDOCINO BLIMP INCIDENT (14 July 1947):

details
  • Navy blimp accident off Cape Mendocino
  • Blimp suddenly settled into water, slipped out crew, rose again
  • British steamer Talma noted luminous wheel-like phenomenon in Gulf of Martaban
  • Slowing of engines from unknown cause
  • Possibly forces generated in some manner
  • Objects with physical attraction for material objects in ocean

### OAKLAND OBJECT (13 October 1947):

details
  • Morning time
  • Photographer Ben Dobus with taxidriver A.J. Goldman
  • Object: "that looked like Saturn with a ring around it"
  • Shot at terrific speed WESTWARD across sky off Bay area
  • Seen shortly after midnight

## assessments

details
  • Geographical position of Norcatur explosion suggests possible linkage with other occurrences between latitudes arbitrarily between 45 degrees 26' North (Idaho/Boise latitude) and 36 degrees 10' North (Nashville, Tenn latitude)
  • Belt about 485 miles wide
  • Peculiarity connects Norcatur explosion with various objects showing seeming relationship between positions of moon for two phenomena
  • Moon position analysis differs between cases
  • Suggestion of rocket-type craft possibly using reaction blasts to brake for landing

## references

details
  • FILE REF: SIGGE-M-1
  • Various dated incidents cross-referenced for geographical and temporal analysis
page010
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

full_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## doc_type

Comparative Analysis (continued)

## dates

details
  • Analysis date: 14 March 1948
  • Boise sighting date: 24 June 1947, 3:30 P.M.
  • References to June 1947 through January 1948 incidents

## locations

details
  • Boise, Idaho (24 June 1947)
  • Cape Blance, Pacific (700 miles off coast)
  • Sonoma County, California (3 July 1947)
  • Fort Ross, California (3 July 1947)
  • Cape Mendocino, California
  • Gulf of Martaban (British steamer Talma)
  • Wilmington area (January 7 1948)
  • Franklin, Kentucky
  • Nashville, Tennessee
  • Hull/Fuget Sound area (June 1947)
  • Oakland (13 October 1947)

## people

details
  • Earl Hollis (forest lookout)
  • Soviet tanker ELBRUZ crew
  • Lt. Mantel (pilot, mentioned as casualty)
  • Military officers involved in collection activities

## observations

### Continued Boise analysis:

details
  • If line drawn westward at ten degrees zenithward from Boise 3:30 P.M. horizon intersects moon position
  • Intersection point far above geographical position considerably to west of Cape Blance (700 miles off coast)

### HOLLIS "SHIP IN FLAMES" (continued):

details
  • Unexplained appearance on horizon
  • No evidence of actual distance from observer

### CAPE MENDOCINO BLIMP:

details
  • Navy blimp suddenly settled into water
  • Slipped out crew and rose again
  • Anomaly: drastic down-drafts of violence unusual for lighter-than-air craft
  • Downdraft account for accident possibly with Drifter Officer involved
  • British steamer Talma noted luminous wheel-like phenomenon in Gulf of Martaban
  • Time of sighting in luminous phenomenon in Gulf of Martaban
  • Slowing of engines from unknown cause possibly from forces generated in some manner

### OAKIAND OBJECT (13 October 1947):

details
  • Photographer and taxidriver witnessed object
  • Appearance: "like Saturn with a ring around it"
  • Shot at terrific speed WESTWARD across sky of Bay area
  • Seen shortly after midnight

## assessments

details
  • Rocket-type craft possibility using reaction blasts to brake for landing
  • Blimp accident may suggest downdraft phenomenon related to other cases
  • Physical attraction for material objects suggested in ocean phenomena
  • Deaths of military officers possibly related to investigation activities

## references

details
  • Various incidents cross-referenced 1947-1948
  • Comparison of geographical positions and moon positions
  • Analysis of temporal relationships between phenomena
page011
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

full_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## doc_type

Comparative Analysis (continued)

## dates

details
  • November 12, 1947 (Ticonderoga observation)
  • November 24, 1947 (Phantom Reef)
  • January 7, 1948 (later occurrences)

## locations

details
  • Ticonderoga ship position: 45 degrees 15' North, 124 degrees 54' West at 0620 GCT, 12th November 1947
  • Pacific off Golden Gate area
  • 1100 miles west of San Francisco
  • Washington, D.C., Fort Knox, Franklin, Kentucky, Nashville, Tennessee (belt of latitudes)

## organizations

details
  • Ticonderoga (tanker ship)
  • Navy Survey ship MAURY

## observations

### TICONDEROGA OBJECTS (12 November 1947):

details
  • Tanker second officer observation
  • Two "flying discs" heading SOUTHWEST
  • Ship position: 45 degrees 15' North, 124 degrees 54' West
  • Time: 0620 GCT 12th November 1947
  • May have been heading for object seen in Pacific off Golden Gate area
  • Earlier reports consulted on same era

### PHANTOM REEF (24 November 1947):

details
  • Navy denied phantom reef as obstruction to navigation
  • Point about 1100 miles west of San Francisco
  • Navy Survey ship MAURY sent in response to reports
  • Reports of ships with high object sighted in neighborhood
  • Echo picked up 1600 yards from ship
  • When steamed to within 400 yards, echo vanished
  • Approximate 1 titude and longitude recorded
  • Echo disappearance unexplained

### LATER OCCURRENCES (7 January 1948):

details
  • Occurrences in Washington D.C., Fort Knox (Kentucky area), Franklin and Nashville areas
  • All must be now familiar to archivists of Signal Office

### INCIDENT DESCRIPTION:

details
  • "Flying disc" pursued by pilots
  • Mantel (pilot) and two other pilots involved
  • Mantel killed while attempting to gain altitude/close to object
  • Lt. Mantel case
  • Deaths of military officers related to investigation/evidence collection
  • Bringing back material evidence from "flying discs"
  • Accident over "Mary Island", Puget Sound, around June 1947

## assessments

### NORCATUR EXPLOSION:

details
  • Described in previous letter
  • Line tangential to meridian of Norcatur, Kansas at hour-angle 2:20 P.M.
  • If continued outward into space to orbit of moon
  • Would intersect lunar orbit at point where moon would be about 100 hours after time of explosion
  • According to rocketry theory, reaction-propelled craft would take about 100 hours to reach moon

### Geographic connections:

details
  • Incidents fit inside belt of latitudes between points mentioned
  • "Flying disc" phenomena possibly connected
  • Reference to various objects resembling description in other cases

## references

details
  • Ticonderoga tanker second officer report
  • Navy Survey ship MAURY documentation
  • Various incident locations cross-referenced
  • Rocketry theoretical calculations (100 hours Earth-Moon transit)
page012
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

full_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## page_description

Closing page of comparative analysis letter discussing speculation and conclusions.

## dates

details
  • Analysis date: 14 March 1948
  • Reference to June 24, 1947 and February 18, 1948 incidents

## observations

detailsSpeculation that something like space-ship came from moon on June 24, 1947, and upon February 18, 1948, returned to moon

## assessments

details
  • This is speculation
  • Question posed: Has anyone yet explained "flying discs" in terms of all pretty-well proven facts in connection with them?
  • Question posed: Has anyone yet devised fuel powerful enough to kick rocket from Earth to Moon?
  • Hundreds of reports during past century on occurrences which imply world visited from outside space
  • Absence of contact by these postulable visiting entities may imply state of culture far beyond ours
  • Point where it would be inexpedient for their members to have to do with us en-masse
  • Reports never seriously considered by science, which in general ignores them
  • According to Dr. Rocht of Chamberlin Observatory, Denver: nothing in astronomy to explain thing which exploded over Norcatur
  • Dr. Nininger's idea that thing was meteor flatly disregards Dr. Rocht's originality
  • Dr. Rocht's statement in Denver Post: Denver woman saw Norcatur object twenty minutes before explosion occurred
  • Army needs men capable of recognizing anomalies beforementioned when they occur, even if only to aid in speculation regarding them
  • Undersigned offers his services to that end, if Army may wish to avail itself of them

## people

details
  • Dr. Rocht (Chamberlin Observatory, Denver)
  • Dr. Nininger (holds meteor theory)
  • Denver woman (saw Norcatur object twenty minutes before explosion)
  • N.G. MARKHAM (signing authority)

## redactions

detailsMultiple bracketed redaction marks visible
page013
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

full_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## doc_type

Academic/Scientific Letter Excerpt

## dates

details
  • 11 April 1948 (letter date)
  • Reference to March 30, 1948 (referenced documents)
  • 1915 (fireball procession mentioned)
  • 1913 (meteoric procession, February 9)
  • February 19, 1948 (McChord Field observation)

## locations

details
  • University of New Mexico, Albuquerque (Meteorites Institute)
  • Chamberlain Observatory, Denver
  • McChord Field

## people

details
  • Dr. Lincoln LaPaz (Director, Institute of Meteorites, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque)
  • Deputy Secretive Director, Committee on Geophysical Sciences, Research and Development Board
  • Oscar Monnig (Texas Observers, Amateur Astronomy)
  • Dr. Rocht (Chamberlain Observatory)
  • Glenn (Institute of Meteorites party)
  • K. Hays (identified Norcatur object)
  • Mr. Leland Sammons (witness)
  • Mr. Alfred Glenn (witness)
  • Dr. Victor Regener (Department of Physics, University of New Mexico)

## organizations

details
  • Institute of Meteorites, University of New Mexico
  • Chamberlain Observatory, Denver
  • Committee on Geophysical Sciences, Research and Development Board
  • Texas Observers
  • State Highway Commission of Kansas, Division 3
  • Institute of Meteorites field survey parties

## observations

### Markham's letters assessment:

details
  • Certain aspects of Markham's letters are fantastic
  • Fireball procession of 1913, February 9: genuinely meteorite, though rare type
  • "Flying discs" claims not seriously supported
  • 1913 phenomenon occurred mid-path of reports on dirigible aircraft/zeppelins
  • Appearance terminated just prior to inferior conjunction of Venus April 24, 1913

### K. Hays identification:

details
  • Identified Norcatur object as rocket (has the following support)
  • Morning of February 19: talked to foreman and two assistants at Air Base at McCord Field, Nebraska
  • All three denied Norcatur object was fireball
  • Described as black object with extremely bright jet of flame pouring out of rear
  • Furthermore, 11-year old schooling unbiased schoolchild in Oberlin, Kansas wrote similar description of "fireball"

### Sammons testimony:

details
  • Amazing testimony given by Mr. Leland Sammons
  • Mr. Alfred Glenn, and other witnesses of Norcatur incident
  • Both members of State Highway Commission of Kansas and Institute of Meteorites field survey parties

### Institute findings:

details
  • Glenn first reported battery case as red hot
  • When pointed out paper not charged, account changed to "too hot to handle"
  • Institute of Meteorites party found only two men, not four, who saw battery case fall
  • Battery case examined by Dr. Victor Regener, Department of Physics, University of New Mexico
  • States it appears identical with batteries used in portable radios

## assessments

details
  • Certain aspects of Markham's theories fantastic but justifiable in calling attention to incidents as unexplained
  • Flying discs in terms of all pretty-well proven facts still unexplained
  • Rocket theory of K. Hays has limited support
  • Meteorite fall theory remains viable despite unexplained aspects
  • Testimony of Sammons and Glenn credible but examined with skepticism by meteorite experts

## redactions

detailsText mentions redacted/blacked-out sections
page014
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

full_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## page_description

Continuation of academic letter discussing investigations into witness testimony and meteor fall theories.

## observations

### Testimony verification:

details
  • Determined effort underway to check up on Sammons' veracity and sanity
  • Dr. D. M. Craggs, instructor in Department of Mathematics at University, believed Sammons (now a well-to-do farmer) is sincere and very badly scared
  • Nearness to meteorite fall would scare as badly as atom bomb
  • But how could it produce such testimony as Sammons'?

### Meteorite fall analysis:

details
  • "Meteoritic" incidents from great fall of 1915, November 29
  • No meteorites recovered either through science of similar falls culminating in Four Corners and Norcatur incidents
  • Coupled with such things as Ussuri incident
  • Alternative cosmic bombardment or many of fireballs not meteorites at all
  • While clinging to meteorite hypothesis, clear that whichever alternative is right one, situation cries aloud for thorough investigation
  • Scattered error handling and configuration
  • Verbose error handling
page015
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## status

full_content

## classification

RESTRICTED

## doc_type

Incident Notes / Official Statement

## dates

detailsNight of February 18 (date inferred)

## locations

details
  • Norcatur, Kansas
  • Norton, Kansas area
  • State Highway Commission Division 3
  • City Hall, Norcatur
  • Prairie View area
  • Reager area

## organizations

details
  • State Highway Commission of Kansas, Division 3
  • Norton (city/airport reference)

## people

details
  • Roy W. Cox (Director of Highways, State Highway Commission of Kansas)
  • Ralph New (Postmaster at Norcatur)
  • Kenneth Hays (witness, east of Norton)
  • Chief Scott (Norton Police/official)
  • Edgar Young's boy (witness at Reager)
  • Edgar Young (location reference)

## observations

### Ralph New account (Postmaster, Norcatur):

details
  • Time: approximately 4:50 P.M.
  • Location: standing in north window of post office looking toward City Hall
  • Suddenly illuminated by terrific light
  • Ran outside into street
  • Others looking toward northeast at white smoke cloud high in sky
  • About a minute and a half: terrific explosion followed by heavy rumbling
  • Smoke cloud growing larger all the time
  • White smoke trail from southwest where missile came from

### Ground observations:

details
  • Explosion and first big mushroom of smoke directly overhead at tremendous height
  • Center of street location: explosion and first mushroom directly overhead

### Kenneth Hays account (east of Norton):

details
  • Distance: about 5 miles south of Prairie View
  • Heard something roaring in sky west of him, far away and very high
  • Resembled rocket traveling northeast toward Norton direction
  • Suddenly terrific explosion followed by mushroom of white smoke
  • Object nearing ground or horizon, losing altitude
  • Sound and jar of explosion reached him
  • Ridden home a ways when explosion sound occurred

### Additional witnesses:

details
  • Edgar Young's boy at Reager: standing beside Reager elevator, heard something high over head
  • Looked up to see very bright flash of light, then loud explosion followed by big cloud of smoke

### Airport check:

details
  • Norton airport thought about 20,000 feet, time 4:50
  • Checked but no planes missing

## assessments

details
  • Multiple independent witness accounts consistent on time, direction, and appearance
  • Explosion at considerable altitude
  • Mushroom cloud formation observed
  • White smoke trail visible
  • No aircraft explanation plausible

## quotes

details
  • "at approximately 4:50 PM was standing in the north window of the post office in Norcatur looking toward the City Hall when he was suddenly illuminated by some terrific light"
  • "about a minute and a half, there was a terrific explosion followed by a heavy rumbling"
  • "rocket traveling northeast toward Norton direction, and that suddenly there was a terrific explosion followed by a mushroom of white smoke"
  • "when he saw it, it was nearing the ground or horizon, in other words, losing altitude"
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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 016 Extraction

## Page Description

Continuation of incident narrative text describing explosion and observations at Norcatur, Kansas. Contains witness accounts and investigative notes.

## Observations

details
  • Terrific explosion occurred approximately 1.5 minutes after initial flash
  • Explosion shook ground and caused windows to rattle
  • Several low reverberating rumblings heard across the heavens
  • Explosion estimated to have been very high altitude

## Witnesses

details
  • Edgar Young: Boy living at Regar, just east of Norcatur, Kansas
  • - Observed huge cloud of smoke nearly overhead but slightly west
  • - Stated large explosion; elevator man was outside during explosion
  • - Witnessed oil-burner explosion initially considered; Finding it O.K. outside, saw big cloud of smoke high overhead, slightly west
detailsElevator man at Norcatur: Heard explosion from office and elevator area

## References & Notes

details
  • Eastern Kansas newspaper carried story (approx 6 days prior to report) of object coming from south to north vicinity of Iola, Kansas, turned west and disappeared
  • Chief Scott of Norton: Check regarding burned flashlight battery that fell in street just after explosion; too hot to pick up for several minutes; Chief Scott has it
  • Exhibit "C" referred to in Dr. LaPaz letter was not received

## Redactions

None visible

## Classification

Not explicitly stated on this page fragment

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 017 Extraction

## Document Type

CHECK-LIST - UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS (UFO Form)

## Classification

Not marked on this page

## Incident Number

102

## Dates

details
  • Date: 18 February 1948
  • Time: 1500 MST

## Locations

details
  • Air Near Green River, Utah
  • Place of observation: 39°N - 100°W near Green River, Utah

## People

details
  • Lenord F. Marchese (B-29 Pilot, Lt., 28 Bomber Op)
  • Carl W. Stucki, Lt., Co-Pilot (see reverse side for other witnesses)

## Organizations

details77th Bomb Sq, 28th Bomb Gp (VH), Weaver AFB, S.D.

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: 100 miles
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: 20,000 feet
  • Speed: Very high
  • Direction of flight: Southeast of Limon, Colorado
  • Tactics: Explosion rate
  • Sound: Could not be determined due to B-29 engine noise
  • Size: Huge
  • Color: Multi-colored ball of fire
  • Shape: Huge multi-colored ball of fire and dense cloud of smoke
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: Vapor trail with ball of fire at head of trail
  • Weather conditions: Clear
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S
  • Remarks: NXXXXX Over

## Redactions

Location field contains heavy black line redaction

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 018 Extraction

## Page Description

Summary narrative of Incident 102 observation describing the sighting details.

## Dates

details
  • 18 February 1948
  • Approximately 1500 hours MST

## Locations

details
  • 39°N - 100°W
  • Approximately 20,000 feet altitude
  • Heading: Southeast of Limon, Colorado

## Observations

details
  • Huge multi-colored ball of fire trailing dense cloud of smoke
  • Sighted by two B-29 aircraft of the 28th Bombardment Group (VH)
  • Seen some 100 miles southeast of the B-29s
  • Size estimated as huge but impossible to determine accurately due to distance
  • Traveling at very high speed
  • Heading southeast of Limon, Colorado at approximately 20,000 feet

## Witnesses

details
  • Capt Howard H. Berodt, AO-49504, 718th Bomb Sq, 28th Bomb Gp (VH) - Pilot of 1st B-29
  • Capt Maurice T. Ritenour, AO-48043, 718th Bomb Sq, 28 Bomb Gp (VH) - Co-Pilot of 1st B-29
  • 1st Lt Leonard F. Marchese, AO-748714, 77th Bomb Sq, 28th Bomb Gp (VH) - Pilot of 2nd B-29
  • 1st Lt. Carl W. Stucki, AO-785916, 77th Bomb Sq, 28th Bomb Gp (VH) - Co-Pilot of 2nd B-29

## References

detailsSee Incident 101 - Norcatur Kansas

## Redactions

None visible

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 019 Extraction

## Document Type

CHECK-LIST - UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS (UFO Form)

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Incident Number

103

## Dates

details
  • Date: 7 March 1948
  • Time: 2055 C

## Locations

details
  • Smyrna, Tennessee
  • Place of observation: Smyrna AAF - 6 miles from (ground)

## People

details
  • Frank L. Penn, Maj., USAF, CO, Smyrna AF Base
  • Opl Richard C. Pettingill & Frt Frank C. Johnson

## Organizations

details
  • Smyrna AAF, Smyrna, Tennessee
  • AACS Station

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance of object from observer: 6 miles
  • Time in sight: 45 minutes
  • Altitude: About 5° above horizon
  • Speed: Very slow
  • Direction of flight: WNW away from Smyrna
  • Tactics: N/S faded away
  • Sound: None
  • Size: Unknown
  • Color: Yellow-orange
  • Shape: Oval
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S - seemed to be flare
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: CAVU - 10 miles
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: Figs (2) showing yellow orange flame-like oval
  • Manner of disappearance: Faded into horizon

## Assessments

Object remained visible some forty-five minutes, disappearing into horizon. No exhaust trail seen and no sound heard.

## References

Remarks(over)

## Redactions

None visible

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 020 Extraction

## Page Description

Continuation of Incident 103 narrative describing yellow-orange flame-like object near Smyrna, Tennessee.

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Locations

details
  • Smyrna AAF, Tennessee
  • West and northwest of Smyrna (flight direction)
  • Horizon (direction of disappearance)

## Observations

details
  • Yellow-orange object with appearance of flare
  • Observed approximately six miles from Smyrna AAF
  • Speed estimated as slow
  • Object remained visible for approximately forty-five minutes
  • Gradually faded away disappearing into the horizon
  • No exhaust trail seen
  • No sound heard
  • Weather was clear

## Assessments

details
  • Object had slow speed and faded gradually away rather than rapid departure
  • Remained visible for extended 45-minute duration
  • No conventional propulsion or engine noise characteristics

## Redactions

None visible

## Notes

Indicates this continues previous incident narrative with full details of the observation

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 021 Extraction

## Document Type

CHECK-LIST - UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS (UFO Form)

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Incident Number

104

## Dates

details
  • Date: 8 March 1948
  • Time: 1100

## Locations

details
  • Belmont, North Carolina
  • Place of observation: Belmont, N.C. (Sighted from ground)

## People

detailsMr. A. C. Morrison (Observer)

## Organizations

details
  • Supt. Meter Dept, Duke Power Co., Charlotte, N.C.
  • Duke Power Co.

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance of object from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: About 10 seconds
  • Altitude: N/S - could not be estimated
  • Speed: Around 600 MPH
  • Direction of flight: Easterly
  • Tactics: None - moved in straight line at constant speed without change in altitude or direction
  • Sound: None
  • Size: From a distance - that of a small coin
  • Color: Bright or silver - looked metallic
  • Shape: Round or sphere (unable to determine which)
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: Metallic
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear with scattered white clouds
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Behind small white cloud

## Assessments

Object moved above clouds. No sound of any kind heard or any exhaust trail observed.

## Witnesses

details
  • Mr. Hendrix, Assistant Superintendent, Meter Dept, Duke Power Co., Charlotte, N.C.
  • Mr. G. W. Jordan, Gastonia Electric Co., Gastonia, N.C.

## References

Remarks(over)

## Redactions

None visible

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 022 Extraction

## Page Description

Continuation narrative and assessment of Incident 104 (Belmont, N.C.). Includes detailed description of metallic object and witness credentials.

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Locations

details
  • Belmont, North Carolina
  • Clouds in vicinity

## Observations

details
  • Round metallic-appearing object moving very rapidly at estimated speed of 600 MPH
  • Observed near Belmont, N.C. at approximately 1100 hours, 8 March 1948
  • Morning of 8 March 1948, clear weather with excellent visibility and few scattered fleece white clouds
  • Could not be determined if object were disc or sphere
  • Apparent size: that of a small coin
  • Bright or silver color reflecting material, steady reflection with flicker
  • Object flicked; observed for some 10 seconds on easterly heading
  • Moved in straight line at constant speed without apparent change in altitude or direction
  • Moving above clouds - altitude but it was moving above clouds
  • No sound of any kind heard; no exhaust trail observed

## Witnesses & Credentials

details
  • Mr. Morrison: Man of excellent character and reputation
  • - First-grade engineer and employee of Duke Power Co. for some 20 years
  • - Impressed the agent as conservative and sound
  • - Technical man with very technical and responsible position
  • - Careful in statements; does not claim to have seen "flying disc"
  • - Merely states they saw an object which they could not identify with any natural phenomenon or known type of aircraft
  • - Resembled "a round metallic appearing object moving very rapidly"
details
  • Mr. Hendrix: Assistant Superintendent, Meter Dept, Duke Power Co., Charlotte, N.C.
  • Mr. G. W. Jordan: Gastonia Electric Co., Gastonia, N.C.

## Redactions

None visible

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 023 Extraction

## Document Type

CHECK-LIST - UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS (UFO Form)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Incident Number

106

## Dates

details
  • Date: 5 March 1948
  • Time: 1610 - 1655

## Locations

details
  • Bakersfield, California
  • Place of observation: From ground, southwest toward Buena Vista Lake, California

## People

detailsGeorge L. Buchner (Observer)

## Organizations

detailsNone listed

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: Two
  • Distance of object from observer: 10 - 12 miles
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: N/S
  • Speed: N/S
  • Direction of flight: Earthward
  • Tactics: N/S
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: Seemingly on fire, black and red smoke trailing behind
  • Shape: Similar to falling aircraft
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: Brownish-white smoke and debris trailing
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Behind a water tower, which was an obstruction to the view

## References

detailsRemarks: Comments of G.L. Buehner and other witnesses to this sighting contained in attached supplement

## Redactions

None visible

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 024 Extraction

## Document Type

HEADQUARTERS FOURTH AIR FORCE - Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff, A-2 Intelligence - Military Memorandum

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Incident Number

Related to Investigation of Flying Disc

## Dates

details
  • 11 March 1948 (Memo date)
  • 9 March 1948 (Incident reported)

## Locations

details
  • Hamilton Field, California (Originating office)
  • Bakersfield, California (Incident location)
  • Washington, D.C. (Distribution)

## Organizations

details
  • Headquarters Fourth Air Force
  • Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff, A-2 Intelligence
  • United States Air Forces
  • Chief of Staff Air Intelligence Requirements Branch
  • Sheriff's Office, Bakersfield, California
  • ADS, Mitchell Fld, N.Y.
  • FBI, San Francisco
  • G-2, Sixth Army
  • DIO, San Francisco (12th Nav. Dist)

## Observations

Incident reported 9 March 1948 via telephone call from Sgt A. M. Larsen, Sheriff's Office, Bakersfield, California regarding:

a. Observation by Mr. (George L) Les Buchner, Bakersfield, California of two objects falling to earth from unknown source on 5 March 1948 between 1610 and 1655 hours. Description of objects similar to falling aircraft with smoke and debris trailing. Observation made at Bakersfield with objects sighted southwest toward Buena Vista Lake, California.

b. Observation by Mr. Danio, employee of Pacific General Electric Company, Bakersfield, California of two objects which fell to earth from unknown source north of Bakersfield, California, 8 March 1948. One object seemed to be on fire with red and black smoke trailing behind.

## Assessments

details
  • Searching parties, aircraft and rescue units have made numerous attempts to locate these reported objects without success.
  • Investigation of incident has been initiated by this headquarters.
  • Report will follow.

## References & Signatures

details
  • /s/ Donald L. Springer
  • DONALD L. SPRINGER, Lt. Colonel, USAF
  • AC of S, A-2

## Redactions

None visible

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 025 Extraction

## Document Type

HEADQUARTERS FOURTH AIR FORCE - Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff, Intelligence - Military Memorandum (Continuation)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Subject

Investigation of Flying Discs

## Summary of Information

Information from the Sheriff's Office, Bakersfield, California revealed that numerous calls from residents in Bakersfield concerning peculiar objects in the sky over Bakersfield, predicated an investigation by their office and contact with A-2 Headquarters Fourth Air Force.

## Dates

details
  • 13 March 1948 (Informant statement date)
  • 5 March 1948 (Primary observation date)
  • 8 March 1948 (Secondary observation date)
  • 9 March 1948 (Report to headquarters)

## Observations

### First Account (13 March 1948)

Mr. George L. Buehner and Mr. H. B. Nix stated they observed a flying object which appeared to be consumed in fire, and left a brownish-white plume of smoke which suddenly stopped and disappeared. Seconds later, what appeared to be a parachute, was seen to be drifting to the east.

Observations made in Bakersfield of object to the south and southwest, approximately ten to twelve miles distance, around 1600 hours on 5 March 1948.

### Second Account (13 March 1948)

Mr. H. B. Nix stated that he observed an object at 0830, 8 March 1948, due north of Bakersfield, approximately five miles distance. Object was a large, orange-red ball of fire, somewhat larger than a small airplane, appeared to remain static for approximately thirty seconds, then split and continued to burn each visible as a burning half. A parachute, with a black object hanging was then observed to fall, drift to the east and disappeared into the hills east of Bakersfield.

### Third Account (13 March 1948)

Mrs. Callis R. Mason, secretary, Haberfelde Building, Bakersfield, California, and Dr. J. E. Johnson, dentist Haberfelde Building, Bakersfield, California, stated that they observed a flaming object which appeared at first to be a very small airplane. Orange red flames seemed to envelope the object with considerable black smoke trailing in a zigzag manner for approximately 1,000 to 5,000 feet. Object was observed at 1,000 feet, approximately due north of Bakersfield, seven to ten miles distant at approximately 0830 hours.

Informants further stated that the object disappeared behind a water tower which was an obstruction to their view, and was not seen on the ground. Both informants watched for an explosion, thinking that it would explode upon reaching the ground, but nothing unusual was noted.

## Redactions

None visible

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 026 Extraction

## Document Type

Military Intelligence Memorandum (Continuation) - A-2 Comment & Evaluation

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Subject

Investigation of Flying Discs / Unidentified Flying Objects

## A-2 Comment

Although there is no evidence to substantiate the following, it is the opinion of this headquarters that this activity could be attributed to marker flares. Any further developments, or evidence obtained, will be forwarded this headquarters from the Sheriff's Office, Bakersfield, California.

## Evaluation

| Category | Rating |

|----------|--------|

| Of Source | O |

| Of Information | 3 |

## Redactions

None visible

## Context

This represents the official Air Force assessment of the Bakersfield incidents, downplaying them as likely flares while acknowledging lack of substantiating evidence.

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 027 Extraction

## Document Type

CHECK-LIST - UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS (UFO Form)

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Incident Number

107

## Dates

details
  • Date: 8 March 1948
  • Time: N/S

## Locations

details
  • Bakersfield, California
  • Place of observation: Sighted from ground

## People

detailsMr. Denio (Observer)

## Organizations

detailsPacific General Electric Company (Observer's employer)

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: Two
  • Distance of object from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: N/S
  • Speed: N/S
  • Direction of flight: Earthward
  • Tactics: N/S
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: One object seemingly afire, red and black smoke trailing
  • Shape: N/S
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Fell to earth

## References

detailsRemarks: See supplement to Incident #106

## Redactions

None visible

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 028 Extraction

## Document Type

CHECK-LIST - UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS (UFO Form)

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Incident Number

108

## Dates

details
  • Date: 8 March 1948
  • Time: 0830

## Locations

details
  • Bakersfield, California
  • Place of observation: Sighted from ground

## People

detailsH. B. Nix (Observer)

## Organizations

detailsNone listed

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance of object from observer: 5 miles
  • Time in sight: Approx. 30 seconds before splitting and burning
  • Altitude: N/S
  • Speed: Static for approx 30 seconds, and then drifting
  • Direction of flight: Eastward
  • Tactics: N/S
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: Larger than a small airplane
  • Color: Orange-red ball of fire
  • Shape: Ball
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Drifted to the east into the hills east of Bakersfield

## Assessments

Object appeared to remain static approximately 30 seconds then splitting into two visible burning halves.

## References

detailsRemarks: See supplement to Incident #106

## Redactions

None visible

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Page 029 Extraction

## Document Type

CHECK-LIST - UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS (UFO Form)

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Incident Number

109

## Dates

details
  • Date: 9 March 1948
  • Time: 0830

## Locations

details
  • Bakersfield, California
  • Place of observation: 5th Floor of business building

## People

details
  • J. E. Johnson (Observer) - Dentist
  • Mrs. Callie R. Mason (Observer) - Secretary

## Organizations

detailsBusiness building (location not further specified)

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance of object from observer: 7 - 10 miles
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: 1000 feet
  • Speed: N/S
  • Direction of flight: Due north of Bakersfield
  • Tactics: Zig-zagging
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: Appearance of a very small airplane
  • Color: Orange-red flame
  • Shape: Appearance of a very small airplane
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: Considerable black smoke trailing for 4000 to 5000 feet
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## References

detailsRemarks: See supplement to Incident #106

## Redactions

None visible

statusRESTRICTED
doc_typeIncident Summary - Check-List (Unidentified Flying Objects)
classificationDeclassified
page_descriptionCheck-list form for UFO incident, printed form with typewritten entries

## Incident Information

**Incident #:** 109

**Date:** 9 March 1948

**Time:** 0830

**Location:** Bakersfield, California

## Observers

**Observer Names:** J.E. Johnson and Mrs. Callie R. Mason

**Occupations:** J.E. Johnson - Dentist; Mrs. Mason - Secretary

**Address:** N/S

## Observation Details

**Place of Observation:** 5th Floor of business building

**Number of Objects:** One

**Distance from Observer:** 7 - 10 miles

**Time in Sight:** N/S

**Altitude:** 1000 feet

**Speed:** N/S

**Direction of Flight:** Due north of Bakersfield

## Physical Characteristics

**Size:** Appearance of a very small airplane

**Color:** Orange-red flame

**Shape:** Appearance of a very small airplane

**Apparent Construction:** N/S

**Odor Detected:** N/S

**Exhaust Trails:** Considerable black smoke trailing for 4000 to 5000 feet

## Behavioral Details

**Tactics:** Zig-zagging

**Sound:** N/S

## Environmental Observations

**Weather Conditions:** N/S

**Effect on Clouds:** N/S

**Sketches or Photographs:** None

**Manner of Disappearance:** N/S

## Additional Notes

**Remarks:** See supplement to incident #106

incident_number110
date29 March 1948
source_docSAC 350 (29 Mar 48)

# status

Readable - memo with checklist form

# doc_type

Military memo / incident report

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Strategic Air Command headquarters memo regarding unidentified aerial sounds. Addressed to Chief of Staff, USAF, with attention to Director of Intelligence.

# dates

29 March 1948

# people

details
  • Anonymous observer (identity kept confidential): woman, military family member
  • Observer's husband: former U.S. military, ex-GI, identified unusual aircraft motor sounds

# organizations

details
  • Headquarters Strategic Air Command
  • Andrews Field, Washington D.C.
  • FBI, Baltimore office
  • United States Air Force
  • American Legion

# locations

details
  • Hamilton, Baltimore, Maryland area
  • Washington 25, D.C.

# observations

Observer heard peculiar sounding noises in the sky over 6-8 week period, between 0100 and 0500 hours. Sounds appeared to come from airplanes at distance but different from typical U.S. airplane motor sounds. Witness thought sounds resembled foreign type aircraft. Recently discussed observations with unidentified neighbor woman in Hamilton, Baltimore area, who also heard the noise. Neighbor's husband (ex-GI) stated motors sounded like foreign planes.

# assessments

No action contemplated by headquarters.

# redactions

Observer identity kept confidential per document.

# references

Letter from FBI Baltimore office to Director of Intelligence, Second Army

incident_number110
date23 March 1948

# status

Readable - UFO checklist form

# doc_type

UFO incident checklist summary sheet

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Standardized USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #110, containing structured fields for object characteristics and sighting conditions.

# dates

23 March 1948

# observations

details
  • Time: 0300-0500 hours
  • Location: Baltimore (Hamilton), Maryland
  • Observer: Identity confidential
  • Occupation: Active in American Legion activities
  • Address: Not specified
  • Place of observation: Not specified
  • Number of objects: Undetermined
  • Distance from observer: Not specified
  • Time in sight: Not sighted (no visual confirmation)
  • Altitude: Not specified
  • Speed: Not specified
  • Direction of flight: Not specified
  • Tactics: Not specified
  • Sound: Motor drone of foreign type aircraft
  • Size: Not specified
  • Color: Not specified
  • Shape: Not specified
  • Odor detected: Not specified
  • Apparent construction: Not specified
  • Exhaust trails: Not specified
  • Weather conditions: Not specified
  • Effect on clouds: Not specified
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Not specified

# redactions

Observer identity marked confidential (N/S = Not Specified for multiple fields)

incident_number111
date1 April 1948

# status

Readable - incident summary sheet with handwritten annotations

# doc_type

UFO incident summary sheet (handwritten form)

# classification

Not clearly marked

# page_description

Handwritten USAF incident summary form documenting observation by military pilot over Philippines. Contains details on object characteristics and flight behavior.

# dates

1 April 1948

Time0955 hours

# people

details
  • 1st Lt. Robert W Meyers: F-47 fighter pilot, 67th Fighter Squadron, 15th Fighter Group
  • Three wingmen (unable to observe due to maneuvering)

# organizations

details
  • 67th Fighter Squadron
  • 15th Fighter Group

# locations

details
  • Philippine Islands
  • Test range area

# observations

Object sighted approximately 3 miles east of pilot's position at estimated altitude of 1000 feet, heading 150°. Object shape resembled half moon or crescent. Span approximately 30 feet, length 20 feet. Silver in color. Dorsal fin barely perceptible. Meyers initiated left turn to intercept. While turning, object executed 90-degree left turn, then leveled out on heading 270°, accelerated rapidly and disappeared from sight in approximately 5 seconds.

# assessments

No sound heard. No exhaust trails observed. Visibility unlimited, scattered cumulus clouds, base 3000 feet, tops 6000 feet. Interview indicated Meyers is reliable, non-excitable individual appearing positive in statements. He was only witness; radio was out so wingmen could not be contacted.

# redactions

Wingmen names redacted/not recorded

# quotes

"No distinguishing features i.e. power units, landing gear, armament or cockpit were observed."

incident_number111
date1 April 1948
continuation_pagetrue

# status

Readable - continuation text of incident narrative

# doc_type

Incident narrative continuation

# classification

Not marked

# page_description

Detailed narrative continuation describing the sighting observations and pilot maneuvers in response to the object.

# people

detailsLt. Meyers: F-47 aircraft pilot

# locations

details
  • Philippine Islands, 13°21' North, 19°53' East, 150° bearing from pilot position
  • Altitude: estimated 1000 feet

# observations

Object positioned approximately 3 miles east of pilot at estimated 1000 feet altitude. Sighted object resembling half moon shape. Span estimated 30 feet, length 20 feet. Silver in color with barely perceptible dorsal fin. Meyers initiated left turn with intention of intercepting and more positively identifying phenomenon. While Meyers making 90-degree left turn, object made 90-degree left turn, then leveled out on heading of 270°, accelerated rapidly and disappeared from sight in approximately 5 seconds. No sound heard. No exhaust trails observed. Visibility unlimited, scattered cumulus clouds, base 3000 feet, tops 6000 feet.

# assessments

Interview with Lt. Meyers indicated he is reliable, non-excitable individual who appeared quite positive in his statements. He was only witness as he could not contact wingmen since radio was out. Apparently maneuvers performed by three wingmen prevented their observation of object.

# redactions

Wingmen identities not recorded

incident_number112
date8 April 1948

# status

Readable - UFO checklist form

# doc_type

UFO incident checklist summary sheet

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Standardized USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #112, detailed observation by two female witnesses in Ohio.

# dates

8 April 1948

Time1400-1430 hours

# people

details
  • Miss Winifred Paines: Assistant Bank Cashier
  • Mrs. Bertha Slack: Housekeeper
  • Address: 227 W High Street, Ashley, Ohio

# locations

detailsAshley, Ohio (ground observation)

# observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance from observer: "Quite a distance"
  • Time in sight: Not specified
  • Altitude: Could not estimate
  • Speed: Slow-moving
  • Direction of flight: Southwest
  • Tactics: No maneuvers
  • Sound: Not specified
  • Size: Undetermined
  • Color: Silver
  • Shape: Oblong, long end narrow—like silver streak
  • Odor detected: Not specified
  • Apparent construction: Not specified
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear, no clouds near object
  • Effect on clouds: Not specified—no clouds near object
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Not specified

# references

See Incident #112a for additional related observation

incident_number112
date8 April 1948
continuation_pagetrue

# status

Readable - narrative continuation

# doc_type

Incident narrative

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Narrative describing witness observation of unusual aircraft or object, with assessment of alternative explanation.

# observations

Witness heard plane which appeared to be flying low and making unusual amount of noise. Could not locate plane but did see object oblong in shape and long end narrow which had appearance of silver streak. It was clearly outlined and moving slowly and steadily in southwesterly direction parallel to ground and without changing direction. Altitude and size were not estimated.

# assessments

NoteSee Incident #112a in which plane was perceived flying low. Assessment suggests possible conventional aircraft misidentification, though object characteristics (oblong shape, silver appearance, no sound correlation) suggest distinction from ordinary aircraft.

# references

Cross-reference to Incident #112a (related sighting same date/location)

incident_number112a
date8 April 1948

# status

Readable - UFO checklist form

# doc_type

UFO incident checklist summary sheet

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Standardized USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #112a, related observation from newspaper reporter same date and location as #112.

# dates

8 April 1948

Time1400-1430 hours

# people

details
  • Mrs. Lelah Stephens: Newspaper reporter
  • Address: 226 West High Street, Ashley, Ohio

# locations

detailsAshley, Ohio (ground observation)

# observations

details
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: Not stated
  • Time in sight: Approximately five minutes
  • Altitude: Quite high
  • Speed: Slow-drifting
  • Direction of flight: Southwesterly
  • Tactics: None
  • Sound: None
  • Size: Smaller than airplane in view at time
  • Color: Opalescent—like mother of pearl
  • Shape: Long cylindrical body, like stick of firewood
  • Odor detected: None
  • Apparent construction: Not specified
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear, few clouds in sky but non around object
  • Effect on clouds: Not specified
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Not specified

# additional_notes

RemarksA plane, which sounded as if it were flying low since there was exceptionally loud roaring noise, first attracted attention of witness. She observed large airplane heading south. About same time also observed strange object in sky traveling slowly in southwesterly direction. Witness first thought it was sky writing as it looked like streak; but later it became clearly outlined appearing to be long cylindrical body like stick of firewood with sun shining on it, appearing opalescent like mother of pearl. Object was much higher and quite bit smaller than airplane but drifted slowly along after airplane disappeared. May have been drifting with wind.
incident_number112a
date8 April 1948
continuation_pagetrue

# status

Readable - narrative continuation text

# doc_type

Incident narrative continuation

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Detailed narrative of continued observation and additional witness testimony regarding object characteristics and aircraft correlation.

# observations

Object appeared very white with no shadow at all, was cylindrical in shape and seemed to have vapor around the top. When first seen it appeared to be leaning at an angle and then right itself and move along perpendicular to ground. It appeared not to be moving at first but upon closer look it was seen moving slowly in southwesterly direction without sound or maneuverings and remaining at same altitude. Weather was clear and no exhaust trails seen. Object seemed very large, about size of full moon in height but much smaller in width. Since there was nothing to compare it with, could not be of size. No statement made as to whether or not witness heard airplane.

# assessments

Object clearly outlined but did not look like balloon. Ferkins Observatory was alerted for appearance but after half hour it had not been sighted there.

incident_number112b
date8 April 1948

# status

Readable - UFO checklist form

# doc_type

UFO incident checklist summary sheet

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Standardized USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #112b, observation by housewife in Delaware, Ohio, same date as #112 and #112a.

# dates

8 April 1948

Time1430 hours

# people

details
  • Mrs. James B. Stephenson: Housewife
  • Address: 93 North Franklin Street, Delaware, Ohio

# locations

detailsDelaware, Ohio (ground observation)

# observations

details
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: Not specified
  • Time in sight: Not specified
  • Altitude: Not specified
  • Speed: Slow
  • Direction of flight: Southwesterly
  • Tactics: None
  • Sound: None
  • Size: Very large—about size of full moon in height but much smaller in width
  • Color: Very white
  • Shape: Cylindrical with vapor around top
  • Odor detected: Not specified
  • Apparent construction: Not specified
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear, no clouds around object
  • Effect on clouds: Not specified
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Not specified

# additional_notes

RemarksAt 1430 Mrs. J.B. Stephenson's attention was attracted from window by object of unusual shape in sky. Upon going outside to get better view it appeared very white with no shadow at all was cylindrical in shape and seemed to have vapor around the top. When first seen it appeared to be leaning at an angle and then right itself and move along perpendicular to ground.
incident_number112b
date8 April 1948
continuation_pagetrue

# status

Readable - narrative continuation text

# doc_type

Incident narrative continuation

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Detailed narrative continuation describing object movement, appearance characteristics and witness assessment of phenomena.

# observations

Object appeared not to be moving at first but upon closer look it was seen moving slowly in southwesterly direction without sound or maneuverings and remaining at same altitude. Weather was clear and no exhaust trails seen. Object seemed very large about size of full moon in height but much smaller in width. Since there was nothing to compare it with she could not be of size. No statement was made as to whether or not witness heard airplane.

# assessments

Object was clearly outlined but did not look like balloon. The Perkins Observatory was alerted for its appearance but after a half hour it had not been sighted there.

incident_number112c
date8 April 1948

# status

Readable - UFO checklist form

# doc_type

UFO incident checklist summary sheet

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Standardized USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #112c, observation by pastor in Delaware, Ohio, same date and location as incidents #112b.

# dates

8 April 1948

Time1430 hours

# people

details
  • Rev. James B. Stephenson: Pastor
  • Address: 93 N. Franklin Street, Delaware, Ohio

# locations

detailsDelaware, Ohio (ground observation)

# observations

details
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: Not specified
  • Time in sight: Not specified
  • Altitude: Not specified
  • Speed: Slow
  • Direction of flight: Southwesterly
  • Tactics: None
  • Sound: None
  • Size: Not stated
  • Color: White
  • Shape: Verticle, larger at bottom and narrow at top
  • Odor detected: None
  • Apparent construction: Not specified
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear
  • Effect on clouds: Not specified
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Not specified

# additional_notes

RemarksWitness first thought that object was plane on fire as it was surrounded by vaporous substance. A plane was heard and witness thought object was related to the plane. Object appeared like concentrated bit of cloud except it was clearly outlined. Size could not be determined.

# assessments

Observation corroborates Mrs. Stephenson's account (Incident #112b) with additional detail of vertical orientation and vapor characteristics.

incident_number112d
date8 April 1948

# status

Readable - UFO checklist form

# doc_type

UFO incident checklist summary sheet

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Standardized USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #112d, observation by housewife in Delaware, Ohio.

# dates

8 April 1948

Time1430 hours

# people

details
  • Mrs. John Bergen: Housewife
  • Address: 111 North Washington Street, Delaware, Ohio

# locations

detailsDelaware, Ohio (ground observation)

# observations

details
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: Not specified
  • Time in sight: Not specified
  • Altitude: Not specified
  • Speed: Not specified
  • Direction of flight: Southwesterly
  • Tactics: None
  • Sound: Could not be determined
  • Size: Not specified
  • Color: White
  • Shape: Spherical "blob" with streaks above it
  • Odor detected: None
  • Apparent construction: Not specified
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear
  • Effect on clouds: Not specified
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Not specified

# additional_notes

RemarksWitness heard planes prior to sighting but doesn't know whether or not they had any connection with object.
incident_number112e
date8 April 1948

# status

Readable - UFO checklist form

# doc_type

UFO incident checklist summary sheet

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Standardized USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #112e, observation by pastor in Delaware, Ohio.

# dates

8 April 1948

Time1430 hours

# people

details
  • Rev. John H. Bergen: Pastor
  • Address: 111 North Washington Street, Delaware, Ohio

# locations

detailsDelaware, Ohio (ground observation)

# observations

details
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: Not determined
  • Time in sight: Ten minutes
  • Altitude: Several thousand feet
  • Speed: Not too fast
  • Direction of flight: Almost due west into the wind
  • Tactics: None
  • Sound: None
  • Size: Not less than 5 feet in width
  • Color: Very white
  • Shape: Spherical with small protrusion above it, like vapor streaks
  • Odor detected: None
  • Apparent construction: Not specified
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear
  • Effect on clouds: Not specified
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Disappeared from view behind trees

# additional_notes

RemarksThis object appeared like concentrated bit of cloud except it was clearly outlined. Size could not be determined.
incident_number112e_continuation
date8 April 1948

# status

Readable - partial page with limited content

# doc_type

Incident narrative (minimal content)

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Mostly blank page with only fragmentary text visible at top regarding object appearance.

# observations

Text references object appearing to be outlined but with ambiguous or incomplete description. Page is largely empty.

incident_number112e
date8 April 1948

# status

Readable - UFO checklist form (mostly complete)

# doc_type

UFO incident checklist summary sheet

# classification

RESTRICTED

# page_description

Continuation/revised checklist form for Incident #112e with refined observations from Delaware, Ohio sighting.

# dates

8 April 1948

Time1430 hours

# people

details
  • Rev. John H. Bergen: Pastor
  • Address: 111 North Washington Street, Delaware, Ohio

# locations

detailsDelaware, Ohio (ground observation)

# observations

details
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: Not determined
  • Time in sight: Ten minutes
  • Altitude: Several thousand feet
  • Speed: Not too fast
  • Direction of flight: Almost due west into the wind
  • Tactics: None
  • Sound: None
  • Size: Not less than 5 feet in width
  • Color: Very white
  • Shape: Spherical with small protrusion above it, like vapor streaks
  • Odor detected: None
  • Apparent construction: Not specified
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear
  • Effect on clouds: Not specified
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Disappeared from view behind trees

# additional_notes

RemarksThis object appeared like concentrated bit of cloud except it was clearly outlined. The size could not be determined.
statuspartial_content
classificationRESTRICTED
doc_typeIncident Summary

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation text regarding witness observation limitations and object characteristics.

## Observations

details
  • Witness could not determine if object was small nearby or large distant
  • Object traveled in straight line with no maneuvering
  • No airplane sound was heard

## Redactions

detailsMost of page is redacted
statuscomplete
classificationRESTRICTED
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
incident_number112

## Dates

details8 April 1948

## People

detailsMrs. H. S. Kirkpatrick (observer, housewife)

## Locations

details
  • Delaware, Ohio
  • Observer address: 107 North Washington Street

## Organizations

details(Reference to Kirkpatrick as housewife)

## Observations

details
  • Time: 1430 hours
  • Place of observation: From the ground
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance: Not stated
  • Time in sight: Not stated
  • Altitude: Not stated
  • Speed: Steady - not too fast
  • Direction of flight: Southwesterly
  • Tactics: None
  • Sound: None
  • Size: Not large enough for person to be inside
  • Color: White - about the color of a fleecy cloud
  • Shape: Spherical - somewhat larger at top with a protruding end underneath
  • Odor: None
  • Apparent construction: Not stated
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear, blue sky, sunny
  • Effect on clouds: Not stated
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Not stated

## Quotes

details
  • Item 16: "It was not large enough for a person to be inside"
  • Item 17: "White - about the color of a fleecy cloud"
  • Item 18: "Spherical - somewhat larger at top with a protruding end underneath"

## Remarks

detailsWitness heard sound but did not see airplane, and saw instead a white object, spherical in shape, larger at the top with a protruding end underneath
statuspartial_content
classificationRESTRICTED
doc_typeIncident Summary continuation

## Observations

details
  • Object end underneath: clearly outlined and maintained same shape as it moved along, steadily, at same altitude
  • Robert Cochran (son of witness), an employee of the Merchant Marine, thought the object very unusual
  • Described as in shape of a rainspout

## Page Description

Continuation of previous incident narrative describing object characteristics and witness reaction.

statuscomplete
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
incident_number113

## Dates

details9 April 1948

## People

detailsRobert B. Hughes, Lt. Colonel, USAF (observer, pilot)

## Locations

details
  • Montgomery, Alabama
  • Observer address: Tactics Div., Air Tactical School, Tyndall AF Base

## Organizations

details
  • U.S. Air Force (USAF)
  • Air Tactical School
  • Tyndall Air Force Base

## Observations

details
  • Time: 1510 hours
  • Place of observation: From the air
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance: Not stated
  • Time in sight: Five seconds
  • Altitude: Approximately 16,000 feet
  • Speed: In excess of the viewer's 310 mph air speed
  • Direction of flight: Northwest
  • Tactics: Not stated
  • Sound: None
  • Size: Top part eight feet diameter
  • Color: Silver
  • Shape: Had the appearance of a parachute carrying a large canister or ball
  • Odor: Not stated
  • Apparent construction: Not stated
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear, visibility and ceiling unlimited
  • Effect on clouds: Not stated
  • Sketches or photographs: Sketch (trip)
  • Manner of disappearance: Not stated

## Remarks

detailsLt. Col. Robert B. Hughes first sighted the object before completing an intended left turn over the town of Montgomery, Alabama
statuscomplete
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
doc_typeWitness Statement / Object Description

## Observations

details
  • Object sighted at ten o'clock off pilot's left wing
  • Appeared to be a silver disc
  • Pilot immediately completed sharp bank to the left for better observation

## Detailed Description

Top part of object approximately eight feet in diameter, silver in color, had appearance of parachute. Attached to bottom was a dark cable or shroud which appeared to support a large canister or ball (Colonel Hughes could not discern which). Canister or ball also silver in color. Had appearance of being slightly to the left of the top part of the object. Overall appearance: something similar to the parachute and canister containing photographic testing equipment dropped from a V-2 rocket.

## Object Behavior

details
  • At time of lost sight, Hughes' aircraft had been indicating 310 miles per hour air speed
  • Object appeared to fly away from pilot on horizontal plane rather than vertical decline

## References

detailsA sketch of the object is attached
statuscomplete
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
doc_typeSketch/Diagram - Exhibit I

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Technical diagram depicting the observed object with labeled components.

## Diagram Components

details
  • Top section: 8 feet diameter (marked with horizontal line)
  • Top surface: Silver, parachute-like canopy shape
  • Connectors: Dark cable extending downward at angle (marked as approximately 45 degrees)
  • Bottom section: Ball or canister, labeled as silver
  • Overall dimensions shown with measurement of 8 feet width

## Object Structure

The sketch shows a parasol or parachute-like object suspended from dark cables above a ball/canister payload, all colored silver except the connecting cables which are dark.

statuscomplete
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
incident_number114

## Dates

details15 April 1948

## People

detailsLt Aytch Johnson (observer, discharged from USAF per authority)

## Locations

details
  • Approximately 1 mile north of Fairbanks, Alaska
  • Over city of Fairbanks, Alaska
  • Observer address: Ft Worth, Texas (SD date 28 May 1948)

## Organizations

detailsU.S. Air Force (USAF)

## Observations

details
  • Time: 1306 hours
  • Place of observation: Over city of Fairbanks, Alaska
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance: Not stated
  • Time in sight: few minutes
  • Altitude: 2000-3000 feet
  • Speed: 250-300 miles (traveled 500 feet in 1 or 2 seconds)
  • Direction of flight: Northeast toward southwest
  • Tactics: Oscillated from horizontal plane to vertical plane at very rapid speed
  • Sound: No sound
  • Size: 8" in diameter
  • Color: silvery
  • Shape: round and flat
  • Odor: Not stated
  • Apparent construction: Not stated
  • Exhaust trails: no trails of any kind
  • Weather conditions: Weather clear and visibility unrestricted
  • Effect on clouds: Not stated
  • Sketches or photographs: none
  • Manner of disappearance: Not stated

## Assessment Note

This sighting may have been the reflection of sun from wings of aircraft. At the approximate time of the sighting a number of aircraft were flying in the local area.

statuscomplete
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
doc_typeIncident Summary continuation

## Observations

Object observed at altitude of about 2000-3000 on NE-SW heading. It appeared as some 8 inches in diameter and gave off a silvery brilliantreflection. It oscillated from a horizontal plane to a vertical plane at a very rapid pace. Estimated speed: about 250-300 mph (traveled some 500 feet in 1 or 2 seconds). No sound could be heard nor were there any trails of any kind.

## Assessment

NOTEThis sighting may have been the reflection of sun from wings of aircraft. At the approximate time of the sighting a number of aircraft were flying in the local area.
statuscomplete
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
incident_number115

## Dates

details19 April 1948

## People

details
  • 1st Lt Francis W. Hennin, Jr. (observer)
  • 1st Lt Robert G. Loomis, USAF (observer)

## Locations

details
  • Over Greenville AF Base, Greenville, South Carolina
  • Greenville AF Base, Greenville, South Carolina

## Organizations

details
  • U.S. Air Force (USAF)
  • Liaison Squadron, Greenville

## Observations

details
  • Time: 1615 hours
  • Place of observation: Greenville AF Base
  • Number of objects: 2-5 (initial: 2-5 at first, 1 later)
  • Distance: 15,000 to 20,000 feet overhead
  • Time in sight: 2 minutes
  • Altitude: 15,000 to 20,000 feet
  • Speed: Undetermined. Stationary, then rapidly accelerating and climbing
  • Direction of flight: North
  • Tactics: Hovering then acceleration and climbing. Observed trail formation
  • Sound: None audible (?) - states: Witnesses were attracted by sound of fighter aircraft in vicinity. (No mention made of these)
  • Size: undetermined
  • Color: white
  • Shape: elliptical
  • Odor: Not stated
  • Apparent construction: Not stated
  • Exhaust trails: No exhaust or condensation trail
  • Weather conditions: CAVU
  • Effect on clouds: Not stated
  • Sketches or photographs: 2
  • Manner of disappearance: in distance

## Remarks

(over)

statuscomplete
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
doc_typeIncident Summary continuation

## Observations Summary

Witnesses were attracted by sound of fighter aircraft in vicinity. They started searching the sky for the aircraft and sighted the objects. When first sighted, the witnesses thought the objects might be weather balloons. However, when they accelerated so rapidly in a northerly heading, they determined the objects could not be balloons. They were in a trail formation on a North-South line, and moved so rapidly they were out of sight within a few seconds. From original sighting in the stationary position to their disappearance, a period of approximately two (2) minutes elapsed, on which the objects were in a stationary position for approximately one (1) minute.

## Environmental Conditions

details
  • Wind at 20,000 ft from 340° at 10 knots per hour (1230 EST Rpt)
  • Wind at 20,000 ft 32° at 13 knots per hour at (1830 EST Rpt)

## Balloon Release Information

details
  • Nearest weather station releasing balloons is Spartanburg, S.C.
  • One black balloon was released at 1230 EST

## Assessment Note

Wind data and balloon release data suggests weather balloon explanation may be relevant.

statuscomplete
classificationCONFIDENTIAL
doc_typeObject Movement Diagram

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Tactical diagram showing object movement sequence and positions during sighting.

## Object Movement Sequence

Diagram shows positions marked with circles (0) and arrows indicating directional movement:

1. (1) - First one object was sighted, next, another one appeared

2. (2) - When first seen objects were in a semi-stationary position

3. (3) - Objects began moving in a NNE direction and rapidly accelerating and climbing

4. (4) - In approximately 2 minutes objects had disappeared

## Notation

details
  • "left on this heading" - marked with arrow
  • Objects shown dispersing northward with acceleration indicated

## Movement Pattern

Objects transitioned from stationary to rapid northerly acceleration with vertical climb component.

statuscomplete
classificationRESTRICTED
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
incident_number116

## Dates

details11 March 1948

## People

detailsV. J. Pratt (observer, employee of Hudson Bay Company)

## Locations

details
  • Near shores of James Bay
  • Moose Factory, Canada

## Organizations

detailsHudson Bay Company

## Observations

details
  • Time: night
  • Place of observation: Moose Factory, Canada
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance: Not stated
  • Time in sight: Not stated
  • Altitude: Not stated
  • Speed: meteoric
  • Direction of flight: earthward
  • Tactics: Not stated
  • Sound: No noise
  • Size: size of a football
  • Color: Blue flame
  • Shape: Not stated
  • Odor: Not stated
  • Apparent construction: meteor
  • Exhaust trails: Not stated (appears crossed out with "starlight")
  • Weather conditions: Night
  • Effect on clouds: Not stated
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: exploded

## Remarks

(over)

statuscomplete
classificationRESTRICTED
doc_typeIncident Summary continuation

## Observations

A big ball of blue flame, seemingly the size of a football streaked out of the sky and exploded near this Northern Ontario community (Moose Factory) near the shores of James Bay. The explosion lit up the entire area brighter than daylight; the whole ball disappeared and a second later a streak of orange light shot upward from where the ball was last seen. The orange streak was gone within a second. Witnesses heard no noise of any kind.

## Related Events

NOTEThis ties up with earlier reports from Cochran, 150 miles south of Moose Jaw where several citizens reported seeing what they thought to be a meteor around 11.40 P. M. EST Thurs.

One witness (a Mrs. Charles Giles) said that the object plunged downward like a meteor rocket in the northern sky. She described it as about the size of a full moon which gave the appearance of disintegration as it fell.

## Assessment

Investigation suggests possible meteor/meteorite, though explosion characteristics and light color described as unusual.

statuscomplete
classificationRESTRICTED
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
incident_number117

## Dates

details7 May 1948

## People

details
  • Miss Jean Bray, Housekeeper et al (observer - see other side)
  • Multiple observers in Memphis, Tennessee area

## Locations

details
  • Memphis, Tennessee
  • Observer address: 253 W. Waldorf Ave., Memphis, Tenn.

## Organizations

details(Related to Memphis area observers)

## Observations

details
  • Time: 1500 to 1700 hours
  • Place of observation: Memphis, Tenn.
  • Number of objects: 50 or 60
  • Distance: Not stated
  • Time in sight: Not stated
  • Altitude: extremely high
  • Speed: faster than any aircraft witnesses had ever seen
  • Direction of flight: easterly
  • Tactics: Most traveled in straight line alt; some of them zig-zagged
  • Sound: None
  • Size: Very small
  • Color: shiny - like bright aluminum
  • Shape: unknown - possibly like meteor
  • Odor: Not stated
  • Apparent construction: Not stated
  • Exhaust trails: Some objects seemed to have a silvery tail which might have been exhaust
  • Weather conditions: CAVU, wind: 330 to 340°, 15 MPH at surface increasing to 66 MPH at 20,000; Surface temp: 72°; dew point 43° relative humidity 40%
  • Effect on clouds: Not stated
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Not stated

## Remarks

(over)

statuscomplete
classificationRESTRICTED
doc_typeIncident Summary continuation

## Observations Summary

Fifty or 60 shiny objects were seen moving at a speed faster than any known aircraft on an easterly heading at an extremely high altitude. For the most part these objects traveled in a straight line alt though some of them zig-zagged slightly. No sound was heard. Some objects seemed to have a silvery tail which might have been exhaust. These objects could not have been weather balloons as only one balloon was released by the Memphis Weather Bureau that day.

## Assessment

NOTEWitnesses thought they had seen a meteor; however subsequent investigation seemed to preclude this possibility. See Supp II to Trip Report to Memphis - Visit with Dr. Paul Berget of the Observatory of Cincinnati, Ohio, in which Dr. Herget expressed serious doubt that the 50 or more objects observed 7 May 48 in Memphis were meteors. He, was, however, unable to offer any explanation as to a possible identification of the objects.

Dr. Hynak of OSU and Dr. Lincoln LaPaz are to be consulted about the possibility of these being a meteor shower.

## Witnesses

details
  • Mr. F. J. Kaiser, salesman, 251 W. Waldorf Ave., Memphis
  • Mrs F. J. Kaiser, housewife, 251 W. Waldorf Ave., Memphis, Tenn.
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationConfidential
page061
incident_number118

Page Description

View PDF ↗

UFO Incident checklist form (Project Sign standardized template) for sighting in Berlin, Germany.

## Dates

details
  • Date: 28 March 1948
  • Time: 1630 hours

## People

details
  • Observer: Dr. Ormane
  • Occupation: Former guided missile expert at Exeirmetall Borsi

## Organizations

detailsExeirmetall Borsi (employer)

## Locations

detailsBerlin Lichtenrade, Kirchbachstrasse 2 (location and observer address)

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: 14 kilometers
  • Speed: Rather fast
  • Direction of flight: South to North
  • Size: "White point"
  • Color: White
  • Shape: N/S
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: No exhaust trail reported
  • Weather conditions: Clear
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Assessments

White point moving from south to north at approximately 14 kilometers altitude, speed undetermined but described as rather fast. No sound reported. Unidentified.

## References

details
  • Witnesses: Dr. and Mrs. Ormane
  • No photographs available

## Redactions

None noted

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Remarks/Follow-up
classificationConfidential
page062
incident_number118 (continuation)

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation page containing witness remarks and assessment notes for Incident 118 (Berlin sighting).

## Quotes

"Dr Ormane, former Guided Missile expert at Exeirmetall, Borsig mentioned that he is a white point moving from South to North at an appro. height of 14 kilometers, speed undetermined, rather fast, no part of sound, and no report of exhaust trail."

## Assessments

Dr. Ormane, with expertise in guided missiles, observed a white point-like object traveling south to north at approximately 14 kilometers altitude with undetermined but rapid speed. No sound or exhaust trail were reported.

## References

Local newspaper interviews conducted; multiple people claimed to have observed the object.

## Redactions

None noted

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationRestricted
page063
incident_number119

Page Description

View PDF ↗

UFO Incident checklist form for sighting near Asuncion, Paraguay. Header partially visible.

## Dates

details
  • Date: 20 February 1948
  • Time: 0700 hours

## People

details
  • Observer: Mrs. Agustina Vargas de Paula
  • Occupation: N/S

## Organizations

details(Not clearly visible on page)

## Locations

details
  • Asuncion, Paraguay
  • Address: Resident of Asuncion (southern part of city)
  • Place of observation: Asuncion

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: N/S
  • Speed: N/S
  • Direction of flight: West to east
  • Tactics: N/S
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: N/S
  • Shape: Oval
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: Highly colored wake
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None

## Manner of Disappearance

N/S

## Redactions

None noted

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Narrative
classificationRestricted
page064
incident_number119 (continuation)

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation page with witness observations and narrative details for Asuncion, Paraguay incident (Incident 119).

## Dates

details
  • Date: 20 February 1948
  • Time: 0700 hours (approximately)

## Observations

Oval-shaped object traveling through space from west to east. Object had thin tail approximately 3 feet in length. Forward portion appeared paired with rear portion. Interior gave off green, yellow, and orange colors. Highly colored wake observed.

## Assessments

Object description indicates propulsion or exhaust characteristic. Multiple color emissions documented.

## References

Statements obtained from local newspaper "La Tribuna" which interviewed several people claiming to have seen the object (saucers).

## Quotes

"At approximately 0700 hours 20 Feb 48 witness saw object of oval shape traveling thru space from west to east. Its form ended in a very thin tail of approximately 3 feet in length. The forward part was paired with the rear. The interior portion of the object gave off green, yellow and orange colors and it had a highly colored wake."

## Redactions

None noted

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationRestricted
page065
incident_number119a

Page Description

View PDF ↗

UFO Incident checklist form (Incident 119a) - secondary observation, same date and location as Incident 119, Arequa area near Asuncion.

## Dates

details
  • Date: 20 February 1948
  • Time: 0700

## People

details
  • Observer: "Withheld"
  • Occupation: Employee of Bank of Paraguay

## Locations

details
  • Arequa - 10 miles east of Asuncion
  • Address of observer: Bank of Paraguay
  • Place of observation: In Arequa

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: N/S
  • Speed: N/S
  • Direction of flight: West to east
  • Tactics: N/S
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: N/S
  • Shape: Oval
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Redactions

Observer name withheld

## Additional Notes

Same incident date as 119 but separate observation location and witness

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationRestricted
page066
incident_number119b

Page Description

View PDF ↗

UFO Incident checklist form (Incident 119b) - third variant observation, same date as Incidents 119 and 119a, Villa Hayes location near Asuncion.

## Dates

details
  • Date: 20 February 1948
  • Time: 0700

## People

details
  • Observer: Rancher and laborers
  • Occupation: Rancher

## Organizations

details(None listed)

## Locations

details
  • Villa Hayes (10 miles NNE of Asuncion)
  • Address: Inha "Chaco"
  • Place of observation: Ranch house in neighborhood of Villa Hayes

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: 1,000 ft
  • Speed: Less than that of a plane
  • Direction of flight: West to east
  • Tactics: N/S
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: N/S
  • Shape: Disc
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S - gave off an intense green color
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Redactions

None noted

## Additional Notes

Same date as Incidents 119 and 119a; different location and altitude (1,000 feet); disc-shaped variant

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Narrative
classificationRestricted
page067
incident_number119b (continuation)

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation page with detailed observation narrative for Incident 119b (Villa Hayes sighting).

## Dates

details
  • Date: 20 February 1948
  • Time: 0700 hours

## Observations

Disc-shaped object giving off intense green color. Traveled from west to east at speed less than that of a plane, at altitude of 1,000 feet. Aureolalike region with green color predominant visible on object.

## Quotes

"Perceived a disc giving off an intense green color. Witness reports that the object traveled from west to east at a speed less than that of a plane and at an altitude of approx 1000 ft. Among its gives it gave off an aureola with the color green predominant."

## Assessments

Green emission characteristics noted; visual description consistent with disc morphology at relatively low altitude with apparent propulsion system evidenced by color emissions.

## Redactions

None noted

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationRestricted
page068
incident_number120

Page Description

View PDF ↗

UFO Incident checklist form for sighting near Vejle, Denmark in February 1948.

## Dates

details
  • Date: N/S - around 7 February 1948
  • Time: N/S

## People

details
  • Observer: N/S
  • Occupation: Field laborers

## Locations

details
  • Vejle, Denmark
  • Place of observation: Gadbjerg (near Vejle)

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance from observer: 200 meters altitude
  • Time in sight: N/S 3 seconds
  • Altitude: 200 meters altitude
  • Speed: High speed
  • Direction of flight: SE to NW
  • Tactics: N/S
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: Shining
  • Shape: N/S
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Redactions

Observer name withheld; address N/S

## Additional Notes

Brief sighting duration (3 seconds); low altitude observation

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Narrative
classificationRestricted
page069
incident_number120 (continuation)

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation page with witness observations and assessment for Incident 120 (Vejle, Denmark sighting).

## Dates

detailsApproximate date: 7 February 1948

## Observations

Three men working in a field in Gadbjerg (near Vejle) Denmark observed a shining object which moved at high speed over the cultivated ground. Object was at about 200 meters altitude and remained visible for three seconds.

## Assessments

NA OICHOUNo verification received of the above. Evaluation F-6

## Redactions

None noted

## Additional Notes

Insufficient corroboration; evaluation rating assigned

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationConfidential
page070
incident_number121

Page Description

View PDF ↗

UFO Incident checklist form for sighting near Cartersville, Georgia observed by military pilot.

## Dates

details
  • Date: 9 January 1948
  • Time: 2330

## People

details
  • Observer: Hugh DuBose
  • Occupation: Pilot (EAL - Eastern Air Lines)

## Organizations

detailsEastern Air Lines (EAL)

## Locations

details
  • Cartersville, Georgia, 34° 10' N, 84° 49' W
  • Place of observation: Air

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: 3000 feet
  • Speed: 400 mph
  • Direction of flight: 175° M (magnetic)
  • Tactics: None
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: Light, sky-blue
  • Shape: Circular, except for the top quarter which was flat, pot-shaped
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: 10° below the horizon

## Redactions

None noted

## Additional Notes

Pilot observer with professional aviation experience

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Narrative
classificationConfidential
page071
incident_number121 (continuation)

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Detailed narrative continuation of Incident 121 (Cartersville, Georgia pilot sighting) with witness assessment and background information.

## Dates

details
  • Date: 9 January 1948
  • Time: 2330 hours

## People

details
  • Observer: Hugh DuBose (Pilot, EAL)
  • References: Col. Ralph Jackson (Head of Western Military Academy), Arthur Ferner (RAF pilot), Mr. Gordy (Newman, Georgia farm operator)
  • Additional witnesses: 75 cattle died on farm of Mr. Gordy at Newman, Georgia (related incident)

## Observations

Object circular except for flat top quarter (pot-shaped), light sky-blue color. Witness states object did not have curved trajectory of wingless missile. Shortly after crossing observer's path, blue flame sputtered and turned immediately earthward. Flame then died out together but nothing was seen hitting ground. Witness states flame was not long trailing type but rather gave impression of concentrated mass of blue flame.

## Assessments

Witness (pilot with RAF connections) believed object resembled aircraft seen during RAF operations. Arthur Ferner, another RAF pilot, also observed similar phenomenon but could provide no identification evidence. Mr. DuBose expressed concern over cattle deaths coinciding with sighting.

## References

details
  • Related incident: 75 cattle death at Newman, Georgia farm
  • Atlanta Office of Animal Industry Division, U.S. Department of Agriculture advises unknown disease persisted over year with other cases reported in country
  • No established connection between object sighting and cattle death

## Quotes

"When object crossed the path of the witness all that could be observed was an intense blue flame, in a shape circular except for the top quarter which was flat, pot-shaped."

## Redactions

None noted

## Additional Notes

Potential connection investigated but no causal relationship established between UFO sighting and livestock deaths

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationRestricted
page072
incident_number122

Page Description

View PDF ↗

UFO Incident checklist form for sighting at Holloman Air Force Base observed by trained balloon observer.

## Dates

details
  • Date: 5 April 1948
  • Time: N/S

## People

details
  • Observer: Mr. Olsen
  • Occupation: Trained balloon observer, Geophysics Lab Section

## Organizations

detailsHolloman Air Force Base

## Locations

details
  • Holloman Air Force Base
  • Place of observation: From the ground

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: 30 seconds
  • Altitude: Very high
  • Speed: Faster than any known aircraft
  • Direction of flight: N/S
  • Tactics: Erratic - completing a large loop after its downward descent, then soaring upward and disappearing suddenly
  • Sound: None
  • Size: Large
  • Color: Grey-white
  • Shape: Rounded, indistinct form
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S
  • Weather conditions: C.A.V.U. (Ceiling And Visibility Unlimited)
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Disappeared suddenly

## Redactions

None noted

## Additional Notes

Highly trained observer with specialized aeronautical knowledge

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Narrative
classificationRestricted
page073
incident_number122 (continuation)

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation page with detailed witness assessment and narrative for Incident 122 (Holloman AFB sighting).

## Dates

detailsDate: 5 April 1948

## Observations

Object with rounded, indistinct form, grey-white color, very high altitude. Moved faster than any known aircraft. Executed erratic maneuvers including large loop after downward descent, then upward soaring, disappearing suddenly. Observation duration: 30 seconds.

## Assessments

All witnesses agreed object was very high, moved faster than any known aircraft, possessed rounded indistinct form, and disappeared suddenly rather than fading in distance. Under observation 1.5 minutes or slightly less. Object was definitely not a balloon and apparently not manned, judging from violent maneuvers performed at high rate of speed.

## References

Related witness reports112a and 112b contain additional witness statements

## Redactions

None noted

## Additional Notes

Multiple witnesses cross-referenced; professional observer assessment

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationRestricted
page074
incident_number123

Page Description

View PDF ↗

UFO Incident checklist form for sighting near Alton, Illinois observed by former Air Base commandant.

## Dates

details
  • Date: 11 April 1948
  • Time: 2330

## People

details
  • Observer: Col. W.F. Siegmund
  • Occupation: Former Commandant of the Air Base at Kearns, Utah and at present sales manager for Western Cartridge, Co., Alton
  • Additional references: Col. Ralph Jackson (Head of Western Military Academy), Arthur Ferner (RAF pilot)

## Organizations

details
  • Western Cartridge Co., Alton (current employer)
  • Air Base at Kearns, Utah (former assignment)

## Locations

details
  • 4 miles north of Alton, Illinois
  • Address: Western Cartridge, Co., Alton, Ill.
  • Place of observation: 4 miles north of Alton, Ill - ground

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: N/S
  • Speed: N/S
  • Direction of flight: N/S
  • Tactics: "Flapped its wings"
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: "Bigger than an airplane"
  • Color: N/S
  • Shape: Resembled a huge fowl and not a type of aircraft
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Redactions

None noted

## Additional Notes

High-ranking military observer with aerospace background

statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Narrative / Assessment
classificationRestricted
page075
incident_number123 (continuation)

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation page with witness narrative, corroborating reports, and reliability assessment for Incident 123 (Alton, Illinois sighting).

## Dates

details
  • Date: 11 April 1948
  • Time: 11:30 A.M. - observed while riding 4 miles north of Alton, Illinois

## People

details
  • Primary Observer: Col. W.F. Siegmund
  • Corroborating witnesses: Robert Price, Veryl Babb (Belvidere report)
  • Child witness: James Torres, age 12 (saw bird flying over home in suburban Glendales, Mo., some 3 months previous)
  • Military reference: Col. Ralph Jackson (Head of Western Military Academy)

## Observations

Object resembled huge fowl, "bigger than an airplane," flapped its wings. Witnesses stated bird was "bigger than an airplane" and flapped its wings.

## Assessments

Siegmund states did not see clear flapping of wings but was sure it was a huge fowl and not a type of aircraft. Riding with companion Col. Ralph Jackson, Head of Western Military Academy, at time. Jackson, however, was talking to former and did not see it. Siegmund stated did not mention it to him as it seemed too incredible.

Additional child witness (James Torres, age 12) reported seeing similar bird flying over home in Glendale, Mo. approximately 3 months prior.

Belvidere report quoted Robert Price and Veryl Babb as saying "bird was bigger than an airplane" and flapped its wings.

## Reliability Assessment

RELIABILITY
  • Impossible to evaluate.
  • Col. Siegmund was never questioned but some sort of investigation obviously should be made in lieu of fact that he was once commandant of Air Base at Kearns.

## References

details
  • Related incident: Belvidere report
  • Child witness corroboration from Glendale, Missouri

## Redactions

None noted

## Additional Notes

Credible observer credentials undermined by lack of formal investigation; reliability rating reflects insufficient verification

page076
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #124

**status:** complete

**doc_type:** Project Sign Incident Summary Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects

**classification:** Restricted

**page_description:** Standardized UFO incident report form with typed entries.

**dates:**

details
  • Incident date: 18 April 1948
  • Time: 1500 GCT

**locations:**

detailsNorth Atlantic, 62°00'N 33°00'W

**people:**

details
  • Observer name: N/S
  • Observer occupation: Weather station patrol
  • Observer address: First Coast Guard District

**observations:**

details
  • Place of observation: Air
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: 6500 yards - 18000 yards
  • Altitude: N/S
  • Speed: 30 mph
  • Direction of flight: N/S
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: N/S
  • Shape: N/S
  • Sound: N/S
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S
  • Weather conditions: C.A.V.U.
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Target strength was S5 fading at 18,000 yards

**assessments:**

detailsRemarks: This incident is the result of a radar sighting. Copy is also filed in radar sighting file.

**references:**

detailsRadar sighting file
page077
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #124 - Continuation

**status:** complete

**page_description:** Narrative continuation of radar sighting details.

**observations:**

details
  • Target was contacted on Air Search Radar at 1500 GCT on 18 April 1948
  • First contact made at 6600 yards and tracked to 18,000 yards
  • Object velocity: approximately 30 m.p.h.
  • Area of contact thoroughly searched visually with no clouds or weather phenomena observed
  • No target indications on surface radar
  • Target strength was S5 fading at 18,000 yards

**assessments:**

detailsRadar result, not confirmed visually
page078
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #125

**status:** complete

**doc_type:** Project Sign Incident Summary Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects

**classification:** Restricted

**page_description:** Standardized UFO incident report form with typed entries.

**dates:**

details
  • Incident date: 2 May 1948
  • Time: Night

**locations:**

detailsSt. Louis, Missouri, 40°00'N 90°15'W

**people:**

details
  • Observer name: N/S
  • Observer occupation: N/S
  • Observer address: N/S

**observations:**

details
  • Place of observation: Ground
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: N/S
  • Altitude: N/S
  • Speed: N/S
  • Direction of flight: N/S
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: Phosphorescent after dark
  • Shape: Bird
  • Sound: N/S
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

**references:**

detailsIncident #123 (cross-reference)
page079
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #126

**status:** complete

**doc_type:** Project Sign Incident Summary Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects

**classification:** Restricted

**page_description:** Standardized UFO incident report form with typed entries.

**dates:**

details
  • Incident date: 30 April 1948
  • Time: 1015

**locations:**

detailsAnacostia Naval Air Station, 38°52'N, 77°00'W

**people:**

details
  • Observer name: Marcus L. Lowe
  • Observer occupation: Lt Commander, US Navy
  • Observer address: N/S

**observations:**

details
  • Place of observation: Air
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: One mile
  • Altitude: 4500 feet
  • Speed: 100 m.p.h.
  • Direction of flight: 360° N
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Size: 25 - 40 ft diameter
  • Color: Yellow (light colored)
  • Shape: Sphere
  • Sound: N/S
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

**assessments:**

detailsRemarks: The object appeared to the pilot to be a yellow (or light colored) balloon, and attracted attention principally because of its flight path. No external fittings or attachments were observed on the object. The speed of the object was estimated at about 100 m.p.h. The height of the object was in approximately a south to north direction, despite upper winds from north northwest, and apparently followed a consistent start altitude. Pilot did not pursue object further because it was entering the prohibited flying area, U.S. Capitol, White House Area.
page080
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #126 - Continuation

**status:** complete

**page_description:** Narrative continuation of balloon sighting details.

**observations:**

details
  • Object had no external fittings or attachments
  • Speed estimated at approximately 100 m.p.h.
  • Flight path traveled in south to north direction despite upper winds from north northwest
  • Apparently followed consistent start altitude
  • Pilot did not pursue further due to entering prohibited flying area near U.S. Capitol and White House

**locations:**

detailsU.S. Capitol, White House Area (prohibited zone)

**assessments:**

detailsNot a conventional aircraft; possibly balloon
page081
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #127

**status:** complete

**doc_type:** Project Sign Incident Summary Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects

**classification:** Restricted

**page_description:** Standardized UFO incident report form with typed entries.

**dates:**

details
  • Incident date: 7 May 1948
  • Time: N/S

**locations:**

detailsLake Doiran, along the Yugoslav-Greek frontier

**people:**

details
  • Observer name: N/S
  • Observer occupation: N/S
  • Observer address: N/S

**observations:**

details
  • Place of observation: Ground
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: N/S
  • Altitude: 3000 feet
  • Speed: N/S
  • Direction of flight: 120°
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: N/S
  • Shape: Flying disc
  • Sound: Lake artillery shell (shrill whine)
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

**references:**

detailsPress dispatch mentioned in remarks
page082
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #127 - Continuation

**status:** complete

**page_description:** Narrative continuation of flying disc sighting details.

**observations:**

details
  • Described as speeding southward from Yugoslavia at a height of about 3,000 feet
  • Made a noise like an artillery shell
  • Multiple witnesses quoted in press dispatch from Lake Doiran area

**locations:**

details
  • Lake Doiran region
  • Yugoslavia-Greek frontier area

**assessments:**

detailsBased on press dispatch reports of residents
page083
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #128

**status:** complete

**doc_type:** Project Sign Incident Summary Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects

**classification:** Confidential

**page_description:** Standardized UFO incident report form with partial typed entries. Page shows fragmented data with significant redaction and damage.

**dates:**

detailsTime: Night

**locations:**

detailsLocation (Hobson): Middleport

**people:**

detailsObserver occupation: Central System (partial reading)

**observations:**

detailsDistance from observer: (redacted/unclear)

**redactions:**

detailsSignificant portions of form are redacted or illegible
page084
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #128

**status:** complete

**doc_type:** Project Sign Incident Summary Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects

**classification:** Confidential

**page_description:** Standardized UFO incident report form with typed entries.

**dates:**

details
  • Incident date: 8 May 1948
  • Time: Night

**locations:**

detailsMiddleport, Ohio, 30°00'1 N, 82°03'1 W

**people:**

details
  • Observer name: Ben Rupe
  • Observer occupation: New York Central System Car Inspector
  • Observer address: N/S

**observations:**

details
  • Place of observation: Ground
  • Number of objects: N/S
  • Distance from observer: N/S
  • Altitude: 6 - 8 miles
  • Speed: Great amount of speed
  • Direction of flight: 90°
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Size: 9" diameter from ground level
  • Color: Phosphorescent
  • Shape: Round
  • Sound: N/S
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: Phosphorescent trail in sky
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

**assessments:**

detailsRemarks: The above covers sighting of same objects by Earl Roush, New York Central System Car Inspector; Bob White, New York Central
page085
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #128 - Continuation

**status:** complete

**page_description:** Narrative continuation with detailed witness accounts of disc-shaped objects.

**people:**

details
  • Yard Clark and C. K. Hite (New York Central Patrolman)
  • Patrolman Hite (additional witness)

**observations:**

details
  • Multiple witnesses observed disc-shaped objects traveling from west to east in succession in the same path at about two-minute intervals
  • Objects would disappear and then reappear at various points in the same path
  • Occasionally one seemed to burst and disintegrate
  • Appearance described by witnesses: "Take a large clock face, cover it with radium, and sail it through the air"

**assessments:**

details
  • Multiple independent observers corroborated sighting
  • Objects displayed unusual flight characteristics including apparent materialization/dematerialization
page086
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #129

**status:** complete

**doc_type:** Project Sign Incident Summary Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects

**classification:** Restricted

**page_description:** Standardized UFO incident report form with typed entries.

**dates:**

details
  • Incident date: 31 May 1948
  • Time: 1320

**locations:**

detailsWilmington, North Carolina, 34°14'1 N, 77°57'1 W

**people:**

details
  • Observer name: Mrs. H. D. Alspach
  • Observer occupation: N/S
  • Observer address: 709 South 6th

**observations:**

details
  • Place of observation: Ground
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: N/S
  • Altitude: Awfully high
  • Speed: Fast
  • Direction of flight: 90°
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Size: As large as an arm, and about 3 feet long
  • Color: N/S
  • Shape: Oblong
  • Sound: N/S
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: Emitted smoke
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

**assessments:**

detailsRemarks: Mysterious sky object was sighted by Mrs. Alspach, her sister Mrs. Colvin, and Mrs. H.D. Hurham. It came at first at a fast
page087
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #129 - Continuation

**status:** complete

**page_description:** Narrative continuation and analysis of sky object sighting.

**observations:**

detailsObject sped from the direction of Bluethenthal Field at 1120 p.m., over Cape Fear River, then veered at a low speed back towards Wrightsville, a little to the west

**people:**

detailsJames Holomon (Bluethenthal Field's station manager)

**assessments:**

details
  • Civil Aeronautics Administration discredited hypothesis by Bluethenthal Field's station manager James Holomon that object could have been a P-80 plane in flight
  • CAA stated there was no such plane in the sky there at the time
page088
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #130

**status:** complete

**doc_type:** Project Sign Incident Summary Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects

**classification:** Restricted

**page_description:** Standardized UFO incident report form with typed entries.

**dates:**

details
  • Incident date: 17th May 1948
  • Time: Night

**locations:**

detailsBetween Plevna and Miles City, Montana

**people:**

details
  • Observer name: W. A. Bonneville
  • Observer occupation: Territory Manager, B. F. Goodrich Company
  • Observer address: 415 W. Rosser Ave., Bismark, N.D.

**observations:**

details
  • Place of observation: Ground, Route #212, West of Plevna, traveling west
  • Number of objects: One
  • Distance from observer: At closest point, approx. 2500 feet
  • Altitude: N/S
  • Speed: Twice the speed of the Northwest Airlines planes
  • Direction of flight: West, slightly south, then west
  • Time in sight: Some twenty minutes
  • Size: Fairly large compared with an aircraft
  • Color: White (might have had slight bluish-white tinge)
  • Shape: Ball
  • Sound: None
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S - but apparently meteor-like
  • Exhaust trails: A long bright light shooting from under it
  • Weather conditions: Moonlight, but cloudy
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None - Map forwarded showing location of object
  • Manner of disappearance: Flew in a dark cloud bank

**assessments:**

detailsRemarks: See Supplement
page089
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #130 - Continuation (Detailed Witness Account Letter)

**status:** complete

**doc_type:** UFO sighting report letter/supplement

**classification:** Restricted

**page_description:** Formal letter from B. F. Goodrich Company (Territory Manager W. A. Bonneville) to U.S. Army Intelligence Division, dated 5-23-48.

**dates:**

details
  • Incident date: Night of May 17, 1948
  • Route: Baker, Montana to Miles City, Montana on U.S. Highway #212 just West of Plevna
  • Letter date: 5-23-48

**people:**

details
  • W. A. Bonneville, Territory Manager, B.F. Goodrich Company
  • Colonel W. R. Clingerman, U.S. Army Air Forces, Wright Field, Dayton, Ohio (recipient)

**locations:**

details
  • Baker, Montana to Miles City, Montana
  • U.S. Highway #212 West of Plevna, Montana
  • Powder River Bridge
  • Familiar with 15 years of travel on this route

**observations:**

details
  • Extremely bright object in the sky to the north-northeast
  • Visible even with broken sky at times
  • Object sailed around in the sky, appearing to be close and far at various intervals
  • Appeared as small object at distant location, then grew larger as approached
  • Speed approximately twice that of Northwest Airlines planes
  • Object appeared first when observer was West on Highway #212, faintly, then grew larger as it approached over the hills north of highway
  • Would hang off in the northeast then would swoop toward the highway where it became real bright
  • This motion repeated several times
  • Visibility conditions: traveled this same route for 15 years, about 15 years, very well acquainted with open prairie road at night
  • Saw object moving in a dark cloud bank to the West and disappeared

**assessments:**

details
  • Observer states: "I am perfectly sincere and do not drink so the foregoing is absolutely the truth"
  • Thought it might have been some kind of jet aircraft never seen before
  • Civilian perspective: "we as civilians know very little as to what might be going on in defense or experimental mechanics however a duty to report the thing regardless as to what it might have been"
  • Observer felt compelled to report to Defense Forces as they may be better equipped to understand the unfamiliar phenomenon

**references:**

detailsMCIAXO-3 (letter reference number)
page090
document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

# Incident #130 - Continuation (Response Letter from B.F. Goodrich)

**status:** complete

**doc_type:** Official response letter from B.F. Goodrich Company to U.S. Army Air Forces

**classification:** Restricted

**page_description:** Formal letter dated June 18, 1948, from B.F. Goodrich Company in response to Army Air Forces inquiry regarding Incident #130.

**dates:**

details
  • Response letter date: June 18, 1948
  • Original incident: Night of May 17, 1948

**people:**

details
  • Col. W.R. Clingerman, U.S. Army Air Forces, Wright Field, Dayton, Ohio (Army inquiry)
  • W.A. Bonneville, Territory Manager, B.F. Goodrich Company (original observer)
  • B.F. Goodrich Company (respondent organization)

**locations:**

details
  • 1653 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, Minnesota (B.F. Goodrich address)
  • 415 W. Rosser Avenue, Bismark, N. Dakota (forwarding address)

**observations:**

*Question (a): Did the entire object appear to be glowing, or did it give the effect of carrying lights?*

detailsAnswer: Object appeared as a ball of bright white light, could not determine if being carried or if it made it go; however, disturbing to witness after stopping to view it at Powder River Bridge - could not hear motors humming as aircraft in these parts might have; attempted to identify using field glasses

*Question (b): Estimate of object size compared with known objects*

detailsAnswer: Size of the light would be very brilliant; object exceeded reasonably bright - and witness would say it was exceedingly bright light which was one light and not several lights as headlight on a locomotive; only about three times that bright and without direction; by this the witness means that this light simply glowed very bright and was not a directed light

*Question (c): Estimate of speed compared with jet type or conventional aircraft*

detailsAnswer: Object flew at about twice the speed of any aircraft that Northwest Airlines planes fly; because witness prior coming through where traveling westbound on Highway #212 appearing only faintly first and then growing larger as it approached over the hills north of the highway until it seemed to hang there off in the northeast and then would swoop toward the highway where it became real bright and then would start back West again and fly out of sight; this thing did this several times which actually got the observer's attention; if witness may state it that way

*Question (d): Did the object appear to be circling at random or follow a definite flight pattern?*

detailsAnswer: As have explained before - the object appeared first when

**redactions:**

detailsText cuts off mid-sentence at end of page

**quotes:**

details
  • "I am perfectly sincere and do not drink so the foregoing is absolutely the truth"
  • "These things glowed brightly while light such as any real white brilliant light might, the moon was not bright enough to reflect polished light unless the craft might have been South of me in the open light of the moon - which showed the moon from time to time through the clouds"
  • "This object was in the black section of the sky over to the North of me and slightly west, and was a steady oncoming light glowing brighter as it came, and had the appearance of something carrying this light in the air- but without sound, and it certainly was close enough to me to have heard motors"
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist (Project Sign)
classificationRestricted
incident_number131

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Standard USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #131. Detailed observation report with systematic data fields.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 20 June 1948
  • Time: 2330 hours

## People

detailsLt Col Wm F. Hull (observer, pilot, supervisor of flying wing at Scott AF Base)

## Organizations

details
  • Scott AF Base, Illinois
  • USAF

## Locations

details
  • Belleville, Illinois
  • Scott AF Base

## Observations

details
  • Single object sighted
  • Distance: N/S (not specified)
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: Undetermined but below 6,000 ft
  • Speed: Approx 500 MPH
  • Direction of flight: 295° S of base then 340° upon reaching south end of Scott AF Base
  • Tactics: Zigzag course
  • Size: Six or eight inches in diameter
  • Color: White light
  • Shape: Approx round
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Complete overcast at 6,000 ft
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Assessments

detailsRemark: No aircraft flying in vicinity of Scott AF Base at time light was sighted

## References

detailsIncident classification: Probably true
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist (Project Sign)
classificationRestricted
incident_number132
evaluation2-3

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Standard USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #132 from Oslo, Norway. Multiple data fields with some handwritten annotations.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 12 Dec 1947
  • Time: 2205 & 2208 hours

## People

detailsDaughter of Maj Kai E. Rasmussen, Col C30 (observer)

## Organizations

details
  • MA (Military Attaché) Oslo
  • University Observatory

## Locations

details
  • Oslo, Norway
  • Same as MA address, Oslo, Norway (ground observation)

## Observations

details
  • Single object sighted
  • Distance: N/S
  • Time in sight: Between two and three seconds
  • Altitude: N/S (Apparently traveling fairly close to ground or would be visible to more people)
  • Speed: Not quite as fast as a meteor
  • Direction of flight: SSE-SSW to NNW-(?)
  • Tactics: Performed arc of circle, curvature-very great
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: Luminous white with greenish-yellow tail
  • Shape: N/S
  • Odor detected: None
  • Apparent construction: Meteor-like
  • Exhaust trails: Greenish-yellow trail
  • Weather conditions: No fog, sky clear and star-lit
  • Effect on clouds: none
  • Sketches or photographs: none
  • Manner of disappearance: Trees obscured vision

## Assessments

detailsRemark: Office employee reports unusual no. of falling stars night of 13 Dec. University Observatory has no record of incident.
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist (Project Sign)
classificationRestricted
incident_number133

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Standard USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #133. Multiple observers across Scandinavia. Sparse field completion.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 20-26 Feb 1948 (date range)
  • Time: Usually around 2130 hours

## Locations

detailsN/S (Norway Denmark & Sweden)

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: N/S
  • Distance: N/S
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: From tree-top level to 20,000 ft
  • Speed: one to two miles per second
  • Direction of flight: Come from direction of Pennemünde
  • Tactics: N/S
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: (Green tail)
  • Shape: N/S
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S (XXXXXXXx - redacted)
  • Exhaust trails: green
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Assessments

detailsRemark: The trend of these objects to appear at 2130 hours might be significant.
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist (Project Sign)
classificationRestricted (partial)
incident_number134

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Standard USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #134. Multi-object sighting involving military personnel. Detailed observations with tactical information.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 28 May 1948
  • Time: 1500 hours (Eastern Daylight Saving Time)

## People

details
  • Lt Kokolonis (observer, 1st Lt, Corps of Engineers)
  • M/Sgt Ernest Davis, Jr. (colored) - second observer

## Organizations

details
  • Corps of Engineers
  • MacDill AF Base

## Locations

details
  • Selfridge Fld, Mt. Clemens, Michigan / MacDill AF Base approx 6 miles east of Monroe, Michigan
  • 6 miles east of Monroe, Michigan

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 5 (three at first, two later)
  • Distance: 2 miles to left (first 3), 1.5-2 miles to left (two)
  • Time in sight: 10 to 15 seconds
  • Altitude: 8,000+ ft
  • Speed: over 500 MPH
  • Direction of flight: seven o'clock position to 25° heading north, 35° heading from MacDill to 8100 o'clock position making abrupt turn to right (pilot's left)
  • Tactics: Maintained nose-up attitude. Made abrupt turns.
  • Sound: None
  • Size: 300 to 400 ft approx (size of lake freighters-500 ft)
  • Color: silvery-gold color
  • Shape: disc
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: none
  • Weather conditions: Clear, visibility 10 to 15 miles, High overcast at 18,000 ft within stratus layer very broken at 8,000 ft
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: Sketch showing approx positions
  • Manner of disappearance: lost in haze at 7 o'clock position to pilot

## Assessments

details
  • Remark: Objects maintained smooth track thru sky, and flew in line of stern stepped up. In second sighting the second object flew about 50 feet higher than the first. All had hazy or fuzzy outline.
  • Discrepancy noted: Discrepancy as to position of 2nd object in group 2 as sighted by Lt Kokolonis (Ino 134). Witness perceived only top-side of object. Objects seen flying over wooded section
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist (Project Sign)
classificationRestricted
incident_number135

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Standard USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #135. Military observation with multiple witnesses and specific technical details. Includes sketch notation.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 28 May 1948
  • Time: 1500 hours (Eastern Daylight Saving Time)

## People

detailsM/Sgt Ernest Davis, Jr. (colored) - observer

## Organizations

details
  • Selfridge Field
  • MacDill AFB

## Locations

details
  • Selfridge Fld, Mt. Clemens, Mich / MacDill Fld Position: 6 miles east of Monroe, Michigan
  • Route to Selfridge Fld, Mt. Clemens, Mich / MacDill Fld

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 2
  • Distance: 25 to 30 miles to smr left
  • Time in sight: 30 seconds
  • Altitude: approx 8,000 ft
  • Speed: Over 400 miles per hour
  • Direction of flight: South West from 35° at 8:00 o'clock position
  • Tactics: Pursued straight course
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: Appeared to be four feet in diameter
  • Color: Shiny brass
  • Shape: round
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear, high overcast at 18,000 ft; thin stratus layer broken at 8,000 ft, lateral visibility: 10 to 15 miles
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: Sketch
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Assessments

detailsRemark: Discrepancy as to position of 2nd object in group 2 as sighted by Lt Kokolonis (Ino 134). Witness perceived only top-side of object. Objects seen flying over wooded section
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist (Project Sign)
classificationRestricted
incident_number135

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Standard USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #135. Military officer observation at Rapid City AF Base. Detailed multi-object formation sighting.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: Between 15th & 20th Aug 1948
  • Time: 2130 MST

## People

details
  • Maj Elmer H. Hammer, J. (AO-44011) - observer
  • Intel Officer, 28th Bombardment Group (VA)

## Organizations

details
  • Rapid City AF Base, Weaver, S.D.
  • 28th Bombardment Group (VA)

## Locations

details
  • Rapid City AF Base, Weaver, S.D.
  • Weaver, S.D.

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 12 (Approx)
  • Distance: 4 miles
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: 10,000 ft to approx 6,000 ft
  • Speed: 500 MPH +
  • Direction of flight: Approached first from NW then turn to right and disappeared in SW
  • Tactics: tight diamond-shaped formation
  • Sound: no noise heard
  • Size: Length: 100+ ft estimate
  • Color: Yellowish-white - brilliant
  • Shape: Elliptical
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: None
  • Weather conditions: Clear, no clouds, stars visible, wind, calm visibility 30+
  • Effect on clouds: none
  • Sketches or photographs: Sketches
  • Manner of disappearance: Disappeared on a SW heading

## Assessments

detailsRemark: There appears to be minor discrepancies as to speed and altitude in the report given verbally to Glasebrook and 1 tr to this Hq f/Maj Hammer
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Narrative/Continuation (Project Sign)
classificationRestricted
incident_number136

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation sheet for Incident #136. Narrative description of observation with witness statements and quoted remarks. Indicates followup documentation.

## Dates

details
  • Date of incident: 30 June 1948
  • Time: 2140 hours

## People

details
  • Mrs. Whitehouse - wife of Maj Harvey J. Whitehouse, C.O., ASU 3319 Tennessee (primary observer)
  • ORC instructors, Knoxville, Tenn. (secondary observers)
  • Maj Harvey J. Whitehouse, C.O., ASU 3319 Tennessee
  • Mr. Tryus W. Setliff (See Incident 136a)

## Locations

details
  • South Knoxville, Tenn.
  • Knoxville, Tennessee

## Observations

details
  • Object description: ball of fire of orange-color with a streemer of bluish color trailing
  • Direction: traveled thru the sky in westerly direction and all disappeared over the horizon to the west
  • Speed: very fast rate of speed
  • Sound: No sound was heard
  • Visibility period: object remained visible for approximately 3 minutes and that the streamer emitted sparks

## Assessments

details
  • Witness statement (Mrs. Whitehouse): Object visible for approximately 3 minutes with streamer emitting sparks
  • Witness statement (Mr. Setliff): Object visible for about 3 seconds and traveled at speed of 1,000 miles perhour at an altitude of about 30,000 feet

## References

details
  • Related incident: Incident 136a
  • Published: Article in Columbus News Paper, 5 July 1948

## Redactions

NoteSome witness designation uncertainty exists between different reporting formats
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist (Project Sign)
classificationRestricted
incident_number136

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Standard USAF UFO checklist form for Incident #136. Single object observation in Knoxville area with multiple witness corroboration.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 30 June 1948
  • Time: 2140

## People

details
  • Mrs Whitehouse - observer
  • Wife of Maj Harvey J. Whitehouse, Commanding Officer, ASU, 3319 Tennessee

## Locations

details
  • S. Knoxville, Tenn.
  • South Knoxville, Tenn.

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance: N/S
  • Time in sight: 3 minutes (according to Mrs Whitehouse); 3 seconds (according to ORC instructors)
  • Altitude: 30,000 ft
  • Speed: 1,000 MPH
  • Direction of flight: West
  • Tactics: N/S
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: orange
  • Shape: Ball
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: "fire"
  • Exhaust trails: "streamer of bluish color trailing"
  • Weather conditions: N/S
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: none
  • Manner of disappearance: Over horizon

## Assessments

detailsRemark: (over)
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Narrative (Project Sign)
classificationRestricted
incident_number136a

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation sheet for Incident #136. Narrative account with detailed witness descriptions and investigation notes. Related to Incident #136 with different observer.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 30 June 1948
  • Time: 2140 hours

## People

details
  • Mr Tryus W. Setliff (observer)
  • Mrs. Whitehouse
  • ORC instructors
  • Mr. Setliff

## Locations

details
  • S. Knoxville, Tenn.
  • Knoxville, Tenn.

## Observations

details
  • Object type: ball of fire of orange-color with a streamer of bluish color trailing
  • Flight pattern: traveled thru the sky in westerly direction and disappeared over the horizon to the west
  • Speed: very fast rate of speed
  • Sound: No sound was heard

## Assessments

details
  • Mrs. Whitehouse statement: object remained visible for approximately 3 minutes and that the streamer emitted sparks
  • Mr. Setliff statement: object was visible for about 3 seconds and traveled at speed of 1,000 miles perhour at an altitude of about 30,000 feet
  • Discrepancy: Significant variation between Mrs. Whitehouse (3 minutes) and Mr. Setliff (3 seconds) observations of duration
  • Discrepancy: Also variation in altitude/speed estimates between observers

## References

detailsRelated to Incident #136

Page 100

View PDF ↗
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Summary Sheet (Project Sign)
classificationUnspecified (partially redacted)
incident_number137

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Standard incident summary sheet form. Observation of three objects with detailed witness account. Handwritten entries with some illegibility.

## Dates

details
  • Date of Observation: 7 July 1948
  • Time of Observation: 2134 and 2135 hours

## People

details
  • University of North Carolina (observer institution)
  • Mathematics Instructor (observer occupation)

## Locations

details
  • Chapel Hill, North Carolina
  • Chapel Hill, N.C. (on ground)

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 3
  • Size: 3 1/2 in. length viewed-perceptively about size of a/c
  • Color: (blank in form)
  • Shape: Blunt from tapering to a point in-the-rear shaped like a cigar
  • Altitude: Extreme
  • Speed: High Speed
  • Direction of flight: East Northeast
  • Tactics: Did not pursue a general course, but moved generally Northeast
  • Time in sight: Approximately 1 minute
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S
  • Sound: (blank)
  • Apparent construction: (blank)
  • Effect on clouds: Not visible
  • Weather conditions: Clear
  • Sketches or photographs: (blank)
  • Peculiarities noted: (blank)

## Assessments

detailsSummary: Objects seemed to have a blunt front which tapered to a point. They appeared silver when the sun was shining on them. Observed almost like in the sky. They were about 3 1/2 in length. They didn't have any wings or any apparent mass of a tiling around in the sky.

Page 101

View PDF ↗
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Summary Sheet (Project Sign)
classificationUnspecified
incident_number137

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation page of incident summary sheet. Observation of three objects with observer at University of North Carolina.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 7 July 1948
  • Time: 2134 and 2135 hours

## Locations

detailsChapel Hill, N.C.

## People

details
  • H. W. Daniels (observer)
  • Capt., Infantry, Reserve

## Organizations

detailsUniversity of North Carolina

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: three (3)
  • Distance: N/S
  • Time in sight: Approximately one (1) minute
  • Altitude: Extreme
  • Speed: High
  • Direction of flight: East Northeast
  • Tactics: N/S
  • Sound: Jet
  • Size: N/S
  • Color: N/S
  • Shape: N/S
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: Not Visible
  • Weather conditions: Clear
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Assessments

detailsRemark: (field incomplete)

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doc_typeUFO Incident Summary Sheet (Project Sign)
classificationUnspecified
incident_number138

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Standard incident summary sheet. Two objects observed in Columbus, Ohio with detailed witness account and binocular observations.

## Dates

details
  • Date of Observation: 8 July 1948
  • Time of Observation: 0920 hrs

## People

details
  • Mrs Wilda Zittek - observer
  • 2579 Avalon Ave., Columbus, Ohio

## Locations

details
  • Columbus, Ohio
  • Ground, Columbus, Ohio

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 2
  • Size: With binoculars (Type M-3, 6.x.30) about 3 1/2 in. length
  • Color: Silver
  • Shape: Like a cigar or torpedo
  • Altitude: about 3000 ft
  • Speed: Fast
  • Time in sight: Four (4) minutes
  • Direction of flight: First headed North East then North
  • Tactics: bobbed up and down
  • Sound: none
  • Apparent construction: Metallic
  • Effect on clouds: No clouds
  • Weather conditions: clear sunlight, no clouds
  • Sketches or photographs: (blank)
  • Peculiarities noted: Mrs Zittek said that the objects looked like something going through a surround. They had a blunt nose and the tail was obscured. Observed during good viewing conditions. It was clearly visible.
  • Manner of disappearance: (blank)

## Assessments

detailsSummary: Moving objects, powers of observation were checked on aircraft. Flying in the air and were found to be good as far as direction and movement were concerned but poor for distance and altitude. Pattern field stated 2 F-80's were in the air at the time of sighting. Contact Captain Darnell, pilot of one F-80 was flying a loose formation in trail of Lt. Collins while pacing him on a calibrated speed check. The aircraft were not equipped with wing tanks. (field) were in the Columbus Area at time of sighting.

## References

detailsRelated personnel: Captain Boyd, District Intelligence Office, 320 Old Post Office, Columbus, Ohio

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doc_typeUFO Incident Continuation/Investigation Report (Project Sign)
classificationRestricted (partial)
incident_number138

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Detailed investigation narrative continuation. Follow-up interview notes with observer regarding sighting of unconventional aircraft in Columbus area.

## Dates

details
  • Incident Date: 8 July 1948
  • Interview Date: 12 July 1948
  • Publication: 5 July 1948 (Columbus News Paper)

## People

details
  • Mrs. Wilda Zittek - primary witness, 2579 Avalon Ave., Columbus
  • Captain Boyd - District Intelligence Officer, 320 Old Post Office, Columbus, Ohio
  • Captain Darnell - pilot of P-80
  • Lt. Collins - pilot reference
  • Agent(s) unnamed

## Organizations

details
  • CIC Detachment, Old Post Office Building, Columbus, Ohio
  • District Intelligence Office
  • Patterson Field Operations
  • Port Columbus Naval Air Station

## Locations

details
  • Columbus, Ohio
  • Avalon Avenue, Columbus
  • Port Columbus
  • Patterson Field

## Observations

details
  • Objects: Two flying objects; described as cigar-shaped with blunt front tapering to rear point
  • Color: Appeared silver when sun shining on them
  • Size: Approximately 3.5 inches in length (naked eye); 1 inch diameter; roughly 3 times diameter in length
  • Speed: Not estimated
  • Duration: Approximately four minutes observation
  • Direction: First heading northeast, then moved generally north from Port Columbus
  • Altitude: Judged approximately 3000 ft
  • Sound: None audible
  • Exhaust: None visible
  • Movement: Bobbed up and down rather than pursuing steady course
  • Field equipment: Binoculars type M3, 6x30 with artillery mil scale

## Assessments

details
  • Observation powers verified: Good for direction and movement; poor for distance and altitude
  • Binocular assessment: No blemish or defects found in optics
  • Subject had no accurate idea of mil scale occupied by object
  • Aircraft correlation: Patterson Field operations showed two F-80s in air at time of sighting. Capt. Darnell confirmed presence in Columbus area; flying loose formation in trail with Lt. Collins for calibrated speed check. Aircraft not equipped with wing tip tanks.
  • Analysis: From three-quarter rear position observation, likely correlation with two F-80s in area; position lends itself to distortion comparable to reported observations (blunt nose, obscure tail, apparent lack of wings)
  • Port Columbus Naval Air Station check: Negative results
  • Conclusion: Investigation performed by Technical Intelligence Division suggests F-80 aircraft as probable source

## References

details
  • Source: Captain Boyd, District Intelligence Officer
  • Technical Intelligence Division conclusion

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doc_typeUFO Incident Investigation Report (Project Sign)
classificationConfidential (redacted markings visible)
incident_number138

Page Description

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Official investigation narrative detailing witness interview, observation verification, aircraft correlation analysis, and technical conclusions.

## Dates

details
  • Sighting: 8 July 1948 at 0920 hours
  • Investigation Interview: 12 July 1948
  • Report Date: 12 July 1948

## People

details
  • Mrs. Wilda Zittek - 2579 Avalon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio (primary observer)
  • Mrs. Paul Zittek - alternative name reference
  • Captain Dwight I. Boyd - District Intelligence Officer, 109 CIC Detachment, Old Post Office Building, Columbus, Ohio
  • Captain Darnell - F-80 pilot at Patterson Field
  • Lt. Collins - F-80 pilot reference
  • 1st Lt. Charles R. Glasebrook - Technical Intelligence Division reporting officer
  • Afl Brech, Operations Section

## Organizations

details
  • CIC (Counter Intelligence Corps) Detachment
  • District Intelligence Office
  • Patterson Field Operations
  • Technical Intelligence Division
  • Port Columbus Naval Air Station

## Locations

details
  • Columbus, Ohio
  • 2579 Avalon Avenue, Columbus
  • Port Columbus
  • Patterson Field
  • Old Post Office Building, Columbus

## Observations

details
  • Objects: Two unconventional aircraft shapes
  • Form: Cigar-shaped with blunt nose and obscured tail
  • Color: Silver
  • Observer equipment: M3 binoculars, 6x30 with artillery mil scale
  • Duration: Approximately four minutes total observation
  • Movement: Bobbing motion; initially heading northeast then moving generally north from Port Columbus
  • Altitude: Estimated 3000 ft
  • Sound: None
  • Exhaust: None visible
  • Size comparison: Appeared about size of airplane when writing in sky; 3.5 inches length, 1 inch diameter with binoculars

## Assessments

details
  • Observer capability assessment: Good for direction/movement; poor for distance/altitude
  • Aircraft identification: Highly probable correlation with two F-80 aircraft in Columbus area at time of sighting
  • Positioning analysis: Three-quarter rear observation position creates visual distortion matching reported characteristics (blunt nose appearance, obscured tail, absence of visible wings)
  • Equipment validation: F-80 aircraft confirmed not equipped with wing tip tanks at time of sighting
  • Binocular specification: M3 type, 6x30, with artillery mil scales; no optical defects found
  • Intelligence assessment: Pattern Field Operations documentation confirmed F-80 presence

## Conclusions

details
  • Technical explanation: F-80 aircraft under specific observation angle likely source
  • Investigation status: Completed with negative results from Port Columbus Naval Air Station check

## References

details
  • Report Officer: 1st Lt. Charles R. Glasebrook, USAF
  • Operations Section: Afl Brech
  • Reference: WD 490 Form 341

## Redactions

details"CONFIDENTIAL" stamp visible with redaction marks on document

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statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Investigation Interrogation Report (Project Sign)
classificationConfidential (redacted)
incident_number138
reference_codesMCIAXO-3, MCIAXO-4

Page Description

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Official USAF interrogation and follow-up investigation report documenting witness interview, observation verification methodology, and technical analysis concluding probable F-80 aircraft identification.

## Dates

details
  • Sighting Date: 8 July 1948
  • Interview Date: 10 July 1948
  • Report Date: 12 July 1948
  • Publication Date: 9 July 1948 (radio broadcast of corroborating sighting)

## People

details
  • Mrs. Wilda Zittek - primary observer, 2579 Avalon Avenue, Columbus
  • Captain Boyd - District Intelligence Officer, 109 CIC Detachment, Old Post Office Building, Columbus
  • Captain Darnell - F-80 pilot
  • Lt. Collins - F-80 pilot reference
  • 1st Lt. Charles R. Glasebrook - 1st Lt., USAF, AFT Branch, Operations Section, Technical Intelligence Division
  • CRG/ash - report documentation officer

## Organizations

details
  • CIC (Counter Intelligence Corps) Detachment, Old Post Office
  • District Intelligence Office
  • Patterson Field Operations
  • Technical Intelligence Division, USAF
  • Port Columbus Naval Air Station
  • AFT Branch, Operations Section

## Locations

details
  • Columbus, Ohio
  • 2579 Avalon Avenue, Columbus
  • Port Columbus
  • Patterson Field
  • Old Post Office Building, Columbus

## Observations

details
  • Shape: Cigar-shaped with blunt nose and obscured rear
  • Appearance comparison: "like something going through air currents"
  • Color: Silver with light reflection from shiny center
  • Detail: Both ends being indistinct
  • Duration: Approximately 4 minutes
  • Altitude: Approximately 3,000 feet
  • Speed: Not estimated from naked eye; indicated 1,000 miles per hour by reference
  • Observation method: Naked eye initially, then M3 binoculars, 6x30

## Assessments

details
  • Witness capability check: Observer powers verified good for direction and movement in flying aircraft; poor for distance and altitude
  • Binocular verification: Type M-3, 6x30 with artillery mil scales; no optical blemishes or defects
  • Mill scale analysis: Subject had no accurate idea of amount of mil scale object occupied
  • Aircraft correlation: Patterson Field operations confirmed two F-80s in air at time of sighting
  • Pilot confirmation: Captain Darnell confirmed presence in Columbus area flying loose formation in trail with Lt. Collins on calibrated speed check
  • Technical detail: Aircraft not equipped with wing tip tanks
  • Analytical conclusion: From three-quarter rear observation position, highly possible the objects were the two F-80s in Columbus area; position from distance lends itself to visual distortion comparable to reported observations (blunt nose, obscure tail, apparent lack of wings)
  • Intelligence station check: Port Columbus Naval Air Station checked with negative results

## References

details
  • Publication: Radio broadcast 9 July 1948 of family sighting at Port Columbus (objects described as "pie pans")
  • Related incident: Individuals not yet interviewed at time of report
  • Report classification: CONFIDENTIAL (marked with redaction)
  • Document reference: T-42603, B-288, P-201P

## Redactions

details
  • CONFIDENTIAL stamp with visible redaction marks
  • Personnel and unit designations partially obscured

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## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Checklist (AFSWP standardized form)

## Dates

9 July 1948

## People

detailsClarence Glasebrook, 1st Lt., USAF, Hq AMC (MCIAXO-4)

## Organizations

details
  • USAF (United States Air Force)
  • Hq AMC (Headquarters Air Materiel Command)
  • 160th Reconnaissance Sqd. (J.P.)

## Locations

detailsNorth end of Osborn, Ohio

## Observations

details
  • **Time**: 2147 hours
  • **Number of objects**: 1
  • **Duration**: Appeared 3 times, each 1-2 seconds
  • **Altitude**: 3000 to 4000 feet
  • **Speed**: Between 500 and 600 mph
  • **Direction of flight**: West (east to west)
  • **Tactics**: Made intermittent appearances at regulated intervals
  • **Color**: Pale yellowish white (luminous)
  • **Shape**: N/S (not specified)
  • **Sound**: None
  • **Apparent construction**: N/S
  • **Exhaust trails**: None
  • **Weather conditions**: Clear with quarter moon in East-Southeast

## Assessments

details
  • Observer was a reconnaissance pilot in World War II
  • Served 8 months in 160th Reconnaissance Sqd. flying FP-80 type aircraft
  • Observer's powers of observation rated above average
  • Speed estimates considered fairly accurate

## Manner of Disappearance

Suddenly at angle of 90° to horizon in front of observer looking north

## Remarks

Lt. Glasebrook was a reconnaissance pilot in World War II

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## Classification

MCIAXO-3, MCIAXO-4

## Doc Type

Unidentified Flying Object Narrative Report

## Dates

9 July 1948; 16 July 1948 (report date)

## People

detailsClarence Glasebrook, 1st Lt., USAF

## Locations

details
  • North end of Osborn, Ohio
  • Pattern Field

## Observations

At 2147 hours on 9 July 1948, undersigned sighted unidentified object flying east to west at approximately 3,000-4,000 feet over north end of Osborn, Ohio.

Object appeared as pale yellowish white light that seemed to glow, not a direct beam. Traveling at rate of 500-600 mph. Appeared long enough to determine flight path (approximately 1-2 seconds), then went out. Three-second pause, light reappeared same length of time, another 3-second pause, pattern repeated. After third appearance not seen again. Final sighting at approximately 90° to horizon in front of observer looking north. Last sighting slightly above horizon to west, just north of Pattern Field.

## Assessments

details
  • Intermittent appearance at regulated interval
  • Sky clear with quarter moon rising in East-southeast
  • Nothing ascertained except glow of light
  • No sound or trail
  • Observer was reconnaissance pilot in World War II, served 8 months in 160th Reconnaissance Sqd. (J.P.) flying FP-80 aircraft
  • Observer's powers of observation above average
  • Speed estimates fairly accurate

## Redactions

Circular redaction on page obscures text

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## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Checklist (AFSWP standardized form)

## Dates

1 July 1948

## People

details
  • Mr. Jack Taylor
  • Mr. Chester Taylor
  • Mrs. Howard Enslow
  • Mr. Howard Enslow
  • Harold Taylor (son of Chester Taylor)

## Organizations

detailsNational Guard (Jack Taylor active duty)

## Locations

detailsGahanna, Ohio

## Observations

details
  • **Time**: Between 2100 and 2200 hours
  • **Number of objects**: 1
  • **Distance from observer**: N/S
  • **Duration**: 2 seconds
  • **Altitude**: 3000 to 4000 feet
  • **Speed**: Terrific
  • **Direction of flight**: Northeast to Southwest
  • **Tactics**: Pursued straight-line flat line of flight
  • **Sound**: None
  • **Color**: Bright yellow-white
  • **Shape**: N/S
  • **Apparent construction**: Luminous
  • **Exhaust trails**: N/S
  • **Weather conditions**: Clear, bright moonlight

## Manner of Disappearance

N/S

## Remarks

Mr. Chester Taylor gave same version as that of his son. Mrs. Taylor apparently did not observe the phenomenon.

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## Classification

MCIAXO-4, MCIAXO-3

## Doc Type

Interrogation Report

## Dates

1 July 1948 (incident); 10 July 1948 (investigation); 19 July 1948 (report)

## People

details
  • Mrs. Howard Enslow
  • Mr. Howard Enslow
  • Mr. Chester Taylor
  • Mrs. Chester Taylor
  • Jack Taylor (age 23, National Guard, 3 years service)
  • Harold Taylor
  • Clarence Glasebrook, 1st Lt., USAF

## Locations

details
  • Gahanna, Ohio
  • 400 Grove St., Columbus, Ohio
  • North end sighting area

## Organizations

details
  • 109th CIC Detachment
  • National Guard

## Observations

**Mrs. Howard Enslow interview**: Night of 1 July 1948, between 2100 and 2200 hours. Described object as "Beautiful golden saucer glowing like a halo with a silver rim around it." Direction of flight North-east to Southwest, visible approximately 3 seconds. Subject very vague and attributed phenomena to holy visitations.

**Jack Taylor interview**: Bright yellow-white light moving through sky at terrific rate of speed. Glow, not directed light. About 2 seconds duration. Didn't fade out but ceased abruptly. Flat line of flight. Object from Northeast going Southwest at altitude about 3,000-4,000 feet. No audible noise on quiet night. Object appeared close at 45-degree angle to horizon. Clear sky and bright moon, nothing but light seen.

**Mr. Chester Taylor**: Same story as son's. Mrs. Taylor in car, did not observe phenomenon.

## Assessments

At observation site, determined that grove of trees restricted field of vision, limiting observed line of flight to two 3-second periods reported.

## Redactions

Circular redaction obscures text in section 2

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## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Doc Type

Continuation of fragmented narrative/analysis

## Observations

Text describes object behavior and disintegration sequence

Object appeared as cluster of parts which remained fairly stationary and condensed for some two hours when it underwent a rather slow change in shape. A large chunk fell off. Within next 2-1/2 minutes entire spot started to very slowly disintegrate. Three large parts moved away out from mass and formed perfect isometric triangle. Remaining mass slowly moved into hundreds of small parts seemingly leaving very faint vapor trails. Three remaining parts continued to move apart holding their related position but gradually getting smaller and fainter until disappearance some 9 minutes after initial break-up.

It could easily be seen that parts were moving away from the earth.

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## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Checklist (AFSWP standardized form)

## Dates

30 June 1948

## People

detailsNorman Pfutsenreuter, Chemical Engineer, Amateur Astronomer

## Organizations

details(Observer from Heels, South Dakota)

## Locations

details
  • Heels, South Dakota
  • Between Watertown, S.D. and Webster, S.D.

## Observations

details
  • **Time**: 11:25 A.M. to 1:27 P.M. and shortly thereafter
  • **Number of objects**: 1
  • **Distance from observer**: N/S
  • **Duration**: Slightly over two hours
  • **Altitude**: 150 miles (?)
  • **Speed**: Stationary
  • **Direction of flight**: Stationary
  • **Tactics**: Remained in one position then disintegrated
  • **Sound**: None
  • **Color**: Like polished aluminum
  • **Shape**: Changing
  • **Odor detected**: None
  • **Apparent construction**: Seemed to be cluster of parts
  • **Exhaust trails**: Particles of disintegrating mass left very faint trails of vapor
  • **Weather conditions**: Brilliantly clear (CAVU), Wind velocity 3 MPH
  • **Effect on clouds**: No clouds
  • **Sketches or photographs**: Map showing locations of sightings
  • **Manner of disappearance**: Disintegrated into smaller pieces

## Remarks

Object appeared as cluster of parts which remained fairly stationary and condensed for two hours when it underwent slow change in shape. Large chunk fell off. Within next 2-1/2 minutes entire spot started to slowly disintegrate. Three large parts moved away from mass forming perfect isometric triangle, remaining mass slowly moved into hundreds of small parts. Three remaining parts moved apart, gradually getting smaller and fainter until disappearance some 9 minutes after initial break-up.

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## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Checklist (AFSWP standardized form)

## Incident Number

142

## People

detailsMrs. Felix G. Matthews (observer)

## Locations

detailsColumbia, South Carolina

## Observations

details
  • **Date**: Field blank, unreadable
  • **Time**: Field blank
  • **Number of objects**: Field blank
  • **Distance from observer**: Field blank
  • **Altitude**: Field blank
  • **Speed**: Field blank
  • **Direction of flight**: Field blank
  • **Tactics**: Field blank
  • **Sound**: Field blank
  • **Size**: Field blank
  • **Color**: Field blank
  • **Shape**: Field blank
  • **Odor detected**: Field blank
  • **Apparent construction**: Field blank
  • **Exhaust trails**: Field blank
  • **Weather conditions**: Field blank
  • **Effect on clouds**: Field blank
  • **Sketches or photographs**: Field blank
  • **Manner of disappearance**: Field blank
  • **Remarks**: Field blank

## Redactions

Form is mostly blank with illegible entries

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## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Checklist (AFSWP standardized form)

## Incident Number

144

## Dates

24 July 1948

## People

details
  • Pilot Clarence Shipe Chiles
  • Co-Pilot John E. Whitted
  • Mr. McKelvie (passenger occupation N/S)

## Organizations

details
  • Eastern Air Lines (EAL)
  • Atlanta Office of EAL

## Locations

details20 miles south of Montgomery, Alabama

## Observations

details
  • **Time**: 0245 hours
  • **Number of objects**: 1
  • **Distance from observer**: N/S
  • **Duration**: 5 to 10 seconds
  • **Altitude**: 5,000 feet
  • **Speed**: 500 to 700 MPH
  • **Direction of flight**: Southwest toward Mobile and New Orleans
  • **Tactics**: Pulled up sharply with tremendous burst of flame
  • **Sound**: None
  • **Size**: 100 feet long and about twice the diameter of "B-29"
  • **Color**: N/S
  • **Shape**: Cigar-shaped
  • **Odor detected**: N/S
  • **Apparent construction**: N/S
  • **Exhaust trails**: Red-orange flame, blue fluorescent glow running beneath object
  • **Weather conditions**: Full moon, clear with broken cloud coverage of 4/10 at 6,000 feet
  • **Effect on clouds**: N/S, pulled up into one
  • **Sketches or photographs**: 2
  • **Manner of disappearance**: Disappeared into cloud

## Remarks

See attached statements

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## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Doc Type

Letter/Statement Report

## Dates

24 July 1948 (incident); 3 August 1948 (report date)

## People

details
  • John Whitted (co-pilot)
  • Mr. McKelvie (passenger)
  • C. S. Chiles (pilot, Captain)

## Organizations

details
  • Eastern Air Lines
  • Eastern's Miami office

## Locations

details
  • 20 miles southwest of Montgomery, Alabama
  • Eastern's trip 576

## Observations

At 2:45 A.M., cruising at 5,000 feet, observed what looked like jet type aircraft to right and slightly above meeting position. Clear moonlight night with visibility excellent. Able to view ship for period of about 10 seconds. Clear there were no wings protruding. Jet or other type power shooting flame from rear some 50 feet. Two rows of windows indicating upper and lower deck. From inside windows very bright light glowing. Underneath ship blue glow of light.

After passing, pulled up into light broken clouds and was lost from view. No prop wash or rough air felt as it passed.

After talking to only passenger awake at time, saw only trail of fire as it passed and pulled into clouds. Contacted Columbus company and asked if any reported jet army craft. ATC had any aircraft under control. Told no such craft reported by either source.

## Redactions

Confidential marking on document

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## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Doc Type

Supplementary Trip Report

## Dates

24 July 1948 (incident); 31 July 1948 (report)

## People

details
  • Col. Clingerman (FROM field)
  • Col. McCoy (TO field)
  • C. L. McKelvie (passenger aboard Eastern Airlines DC-3)
  • Maj Llewellyn (recipient/interviewer)

## Locations

details
  • Eastern Airlines DC-3, night of 24 July 1948
  • Trip reference 576

## Observations

Object of trip to interview C. L. McKelvie, passenger aboard Eastern Airlines DC-3, night of 24 July 1948.

McKelvie's written statement: Was occupying 5th or 6th seat from front of plane on right side and would periodically glance out window. Full moon illuminated ground and skies. Frequently passed cumulus clouds. On one occasion while looking out, observed sudden streak of light moving in southwesterly direction across airway above plane. Wondered if it were lightning but observed it moved in straight line and not in jerky manner. Color was bright flame (no thought it probably light cherry red, although edges more yellow flame). Shifted position for better observation, momentarily losing light of flame. Then when turned back flame again very close. Shifted back to forward position. Momentarily lost sight of flame. Estimated flame 1/2 as far above plane as plane above ground. No physical shape seen only streak of light during straight line. Although experience was momentary, so detailed observation absent. Heard no sound but stated that vibration of plane was much greater than normal and not possible to hear any sound from outside.

In interview McKelvie stated pilots seemed quite excited and appeared nervous over episode.

## References

R. A. Llewellyn, Major, USAF

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## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Checklist (AFSWP standardized form)

## Incident Number

144b

## Dates

24 July 1948

## People

detailsCapt Perry R. Manafield (observer)

## Organizations

details571/23 BAL

## Locations

detailsBetween Blackstone, Virginia and Greensboro, North Carolina

## Observations

details
  • **Time**: 0230
  • **Number of objects**: 1
  • **Distance from observer**: N/S
  • **Duration**: 3 seconds
  • **Altitude**: N/S
  • **Speed**: Meteoric
  • **Direction of flight**: Southerly
  • **Tactics**: Traveling horizontally
  • **Sound**: N/S
  • **Size**: N/S
  • **Color**: N/S
  • **Shape**: N/S
  • **Odor detected**: N/S
  • **Apparent construction**: N/S
  • **Exhaust trails**: N/S
  • **Weather conditions**: VFR CAVU
  • **Effect on clouds**: N/S
  • **Sketches or photographs**: None
  • **Manner of disappearance**: "Died out" in the distance

## Remarks

(over)

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## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Doc Type

Continuation of Incident Report

## Dates

24 July 1948

## People

details
  • C. Kingsley (pilot)
  • Capt Perry R. Manafield (observer)

## Observations

At about 0230 on July 24, 1948, C. Kingsley and Capt Perry R. Manafield saw what they thought was an unusual meteor. It was brighter than any ever seen before and traveling in horizontal direction, slightly above horizon. Observed for 3 seconds before it died out. At no time did it appear to travel in downward direction. Kingsley and Manafield discussed matter that meteor appeared to be traveling horizontally.

At time they were traveling between Blackstone, Virginia and Greensboro, South Carolina. Sky was clear and visibility unlimited. They were on magnetic heading of 210 degrees and estimated object to be on bearing of about 210° from them, that is about 30° to left of their heading. Appeared to be traveling in southerly direction, above but close to horizon.

## Assessments

NOTE15-minute variance in time of this sighting (0230) to rocket sighting at 0245 in Atlanta some 400 to 450 miles distant.
NOTETime (0230) tallies with another sighting by another pilot in vicinity of Blackstone, Virginia who saw very unusual meteor that appeared to be on bearing of about 210° from them traveling in southerly direction above but close to horizon.

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## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Doc Type

Continuation of Incident Report/Analysis

## Observations

Pilot C. Kingsley and Capt Perry R. Manafield account of unusual meteor sighting at approximately 0230 on July 24, 1948.

Object was brighter than any ever seen before and traveling in horizontal direction, slightly above horizon. Observed for 3 seconds before it died out. At no time did it appear to travel in downward direction. Kingsley and Manafield discussed that meteor appeared to be traveling horizontally.

Time of sightingtraveling between Blackstone, Virginia and Greensboro, South Carolina. Clear sky with unlimited visibility. Magnetic heading 210 degrees. Estimated object bearing about 210° from them, approximately 30° to left of heading. Appeared traveling in southerly direction, above but close to horizon.

## Assessments

NOTE15-minute variance in time of this sighting (0230) to rocket sighting at 0245 in Atlanta approximately 400-450 miles distant. Time (0230) also tallies with incident by Pilot Louis Feldwary's account of sighting jet or rocket trail just after leaving Blackstone.

Object description consistent with meteor characteristics but timing and horizontal trajectory noted as unusual.

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source38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172
page121
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionFirst page of incident report checklist form for standardized UFO sighting documentation.
dates - 9 July 1948
locations - Fielding Lake, Alaska (65°11' - 145°40' W)
people
  • - 1st Lt Dominick J. Ceramia (observer)
  • - Thomas B. Carpenter (observer)
organizations
  • - 72nd RCN Squadron (VIR) Photographic
  • - APO 731
  • - Postmaster Seattle, Washington
observations
  • - Approximately 20 objects observed
  • - Distance from observer: 5,000+ feet above
  • - Time in sight: 5 seconds or less
  • - Altitude: 5,000+ feet, immediately below clouds
  • - Speed: Over 500 MPH
  • - Direction of flight: From WNW to ESE
  • - Tactics: Jockeyed back and forth in group formation, shotgun blast pattern impression
  • - Sound: Loud roaring sound heard before objects passed; sound sharpened into buzz as they approached
  • - Color: Grayish black
  • - Shape: Spheroid or disc-shaped
  • - Apparent construction: N/S
  • - Odor detected: N/S
  • - Exhaust trails: None visible
  • - Weather conditions: Bright and sunny with 1/10 strato-cumulus cloud coverage
  • - Effect on clouds: None - flew immediately below them
  • - Sketches or photographs: Yes
  • - Manner of disappearance: N/S
assessments
  • - Objects resembled group of dots, grayish black in color, approximately 20 total
  • - Plainly visible, either spheroid or disc-shaped
  • - Appeared to be jockeying back and forth in group formation
references - Observers from 72nd RCN Squadron
redactionsNone
incident_number145

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page122
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist - Continuation/Remarks
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionContinuation page providing detailed remarks about objects sighted in formation at 5,000 feet altitude, traveling at excess of 500 MPH with shotgun blast pattern behavior.
observations
  • - Objects flew in group formation, giving impression of shotgun blast pattern
  • - Estimated altitude: 5,000 feet (immediately below clouds)
  • - Speed: Excess of 500 MPH
  • - Flight path: From ENE to WSW, maintaining straight course
  • - Sound: Loud roaring sound heard initially, attributed to strong wind through surrounding woods; sound sharpened into buzz as objects approached and passed
  • - Appearance: Resembled group of jet aircraft; no exhaust trails visible
  • - Formation pattern: Varied from V formation to irregular grouping with regular pulsating flashing light observed from above as they passed 30 degrees beyond zenith
quotes
  • - "Objects gave overall impression of a shotgun blast pattern"
  • - "Sound sharpened into a buzz much like jet aircraft"
  • - "No exhaust trails were visible"
  • - "There were no photographs available"
redactionsNone

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page123
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionIncident checklist form for sighting near San Acacia Dam, 65 miles south of Albuquerque, New Mexico.
incident_number146
dates - 17 July 1948
times - 1650 hours
locations - Vicinity of San Acacia Dam, 65 miles south of Albuquerque, New Mexico
people
  • - M/Sgt Wm R. Carter (observer)
  • - M/Sgt Bernard E. Harvey (observer)
organizations - 428th AFSU Kirtland AFB
occupations
  • - Carter: Armament technician
  • - Harvey: Experienced AF non-com
observations
  • - Number of objects: 7
  • - Distance from observer: M/S
  • - Time in sight: M/S
  • - Altitude: 20,000 feet
  • - Speed: 1,500 MPH (if estimated altitude correct)
  • - Direction of flight: Northerly heading (between north and northwest)
  • - Tactics: Maintained formation
  • - Sound: M/S
  • - Size: M/S
  • - Color: Color of aluminum aircraft at high altitude
  • - Shape: When overhead - circular; after passing zenith - indeterminate
  • - Odor detected: M/S
  • - Apparent construction: Metallic
  • - Exhaust trails: None
  • - Weather conditions: CAVU at 20,000 feet wind velocity 8 to 10 miles
  • - Effect on clouds: M/S
  • - Sketches or photographs: None
  • - Manner of disappearance: M/S In northwest
assessments
  • - Objects initially in V formation at estimated altitude 20,000 feet
  • - Formation varied from V to irregular
  • - Grouped in irregular formation
  • - Regular pulsating flashing light observed
  • - Shape difficult to ascertain when directly overhead
  • - Resembled cluster of balloons traveling at great rate of speed
  • - When directly overhead: circular
  • - When passing zenith: indeterminate shape
  • - Speed estimated as 1,500 MPH
  • - No vapor, smoke, or other trail visible
  • - Did not appear to show non-vertical view
  • - Disappeared on heading between north and northwest
agent_notes
  • - Sgt Carter described as sober, industrious individual, level-headed
  • - Outstanding ability, definitely not the type to experience hallucinations
  • - Information received from Carter proved accurate in other instances
  • - Sgt Harvey experienced AF non-com accustomed to observation of aircraft at various altitudes and speeds
evaluation_of_informantsA
quality_of_information3

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statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist - Continuation/Remarks
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionDetailed remarks section providing expanded narrative of the San Acacia Dam sighting with formation dynamics and shape observations.
observations
  • - Location: Approximately 65 miles south of Albuquerque, New Mexico
  • - Number of objects: 7 unidentified objects
  • - Initial formation: V formation at estimated altitude 20,000 feet
  • - Formation changes: Varied from V formation to irregular formation then grouped in irregular formation
  • - Regular pulsating flashing light: Observed from above as objects passed 30 degrees beyond zenith
  • - Shape: Difficult to ascertain; when directly overhead appeared circular; resembled cluster of balloons
  • - Color: Appeared color of aluminum at high altitude or white painted aircraft
  • - Speed estimation: If altitude estimation correct, speed could be estimated as 1,500 MPH
  • - No vapor, smoke, other trail visible
  • - No spherical non-vertical view
  • - Direction of disappearance: On heading between north and northwest
assessments
  • - Objects plainly visible
  • - Difficult to determine shape characteristics when directly overhead
  • - Appeared circular when overhead
  • - Indeterminate when viewed obliquely
  • - Disappeared on heading between north and northwest

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page125
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionIncident checklist form for sighting in Springfield, Ohio, observed by housewife.
incident_number147
dates - 27 July 1948
times - 2200 hours
locations - Springfield, Ohio
people - Mrs. E. H. Gibson (observer)
organizations - None specified
occupations - Housewife
observations
  • - Number of objects: 1
  • - Distance from observer: M/S
  • - Time in sight: 3 seconds
  • - Altitude: Great height
  • - Speed: That of a jet plane
  • - Direction of flight: Heading North
  • - Tactics: None - traveled in straight line
  • - Sound: None
  • - Size: Witness stated object resembled a "rice bell"
  • - Color: M/S
  • - Shape: Round
  • - Odor detected: None
  • - Apparent construction: M/S
  • - Exhaust trails: Bright red tail of fire
  • - Weather conditions: Some thunder and lightning
  • - Effect on clouds: M/S
  • - Sketches or photographs: None
  • - Manner of disappearance: Flew out of sight
addresses - Observer: 1217 East Main St., Springfield, Ohio
references - See attached [remarks section]

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statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Report - Danish Incident with Foreign Government Information
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionContinuation/remarks section containing foreign intelligence information regarding flying saucer sightings in Denmark, noting observations of rocket-like objects with trailing effects.
locations - North Jutland, Denmark (Hjerring, the Scaw and Hjerup)
dates
  • - 19 January 1948
  • - Time: 7:30 AM
observations
  • - Multiple reports from North Jutland of flying saucers observed
  • - Objects described as bluish light and tall of green light
  • - Objects surrounded by green light, moving very fast
  • - One observer reported objects that looked like three balls
  • - Several observers in the Scaw area reported rocket-like objects
  • - Behavior: Suddenly stopped, exploded and disappeared
assessments
  • - Phenomena observed in Hjerring area: Scaw and Hjerup
  • - Objects were surrounded by bluish light and tall of green light
  • - Appeared to move very fast
  • - Resembled three balls to some observers
  • - Rocket-like objects in Scaw area that suddenly stopped, exploded and disappeared
organizations - Danish officials or War Ministry
redactionsPartial - specific details of some observations may be redacted
quotes
  • - "So-called flying saucers were observed"
  • - "Surrounded by bluish light and tail of green light"
  • - "Thought they looked like three balls"
  • - "Rocket-like objects which suddenly stopped, exploded and disappeared"
agent_notes - M/A Comment: Impossible to get verification from Danish officials or Danish War Ministry

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page127
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionIncident checklist form for sighting in Springfield, Ohio, with object resembling flaming missile with bright red tail exhaust.
incident_number148
dates - 28 July 1948
times - 0400 hours
locations - Springfield, Ohio
people - Mrs. Rose Henry (observer)
organizations - None specified
occupations - Housewife
observations
  • - Number of objects: 1
  • - Distance from observer: M/S
  • - Time in sight: 1st time: 5 minutes; 2d time: 15 minutes
  • - Altitude: M/S
  • - Speed: Remained nearly stationary
  • - Direction of flight: M/S
  • - Tactics: Hovering
  • - Sound: M/S - Witness thought she heard sound of plane before she sighted object
  • - Size: About the size of a basketball
  • - Color: Intense yellow
  • - Shape: Round
  • - Odor detected: M/S
  • - Apparent construction: M/S
  • - Exhaust trails: M/S
  • - Weather conditions: M/S
  • - Effect on clouds: M/S
  • - Sketches or photographs: None
  • - Manner of disappearance: Faded away
addresses - Observer: 226 Dibert Avenue, Springfield, Ohio
references - See attached [remarks section]

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page128
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionIncident checklist form for North Jutland sighting describing rocket-like objects with green light trails that suddenly exploded and disappeared.
incident_number149
dates - 19 Jan 48 (January 1948)
times - 7:30 AM
locations - North Jutland (Hjerrin, the Scaw and Hjerup)
people
  • - Observers: N/S (listed as taken from OMA E-34-48, WAD 11796)
  • - Prepared by Lt Col Franklin E. Tomlinson (noted in remarks)
organizations
  • - OMA E-34-48
  • - WAD 11796
  • - Danish sources
observations
  • - Number of objects: M/S - Three (per remarks section)
  • - Distance from observer: M/S
  • - Time in sight: M/S
  • - Altitude: M/S
  • - Speed: Apparently rocket-like
  • - Direction of flight: M/S - East - West (per remarks)
  • - Tactics: "Suddenly stopped, exploded and disappeared"
  • - Sound: M/S
  • - Size: M/S
  • - Color: M/S
  • - Shape: Ball - saucer
  • - Odor detected: M/S
  • - Apparent construction: Rocket-like objects
  • - Exhaust trails: Initiated tail of green light
  • - Weather conditions: M/S
  • - Effect on clouds: M/S
  • - Sketches or photographs: None
  • - Manner of disappearance: "Exploded and disappeared"
assessments
  • - Objects described as rocket-like
  • - Behavior characterized as violent termination
  • - Green light trail observed
redactionsM/S marks indicate "Not Specified" rather than redaction

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page129
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionIncident checklist form for Indianapolis, Indiana sighting with detailed object description including sketches and physical measurements.
incident_number151
dates - 29 July 1948
times - 0955
locations - Northeastern part of Indianapolis, Indiana
people
  • - Mr. James W. Toney (observer)
  • - Mr. Robert Huggins (observer)
organizations - W. O. Jones Rug Cleaners (employer of both)
occupations - Transport: Both employees of W. O. Jones Rug Cleaners
addresses
  • - Toney: 235 So Bradley, Indianapolis
  • - Huggins: 5040 Indianapolis, Indianapolis
observations
  • - Number of objects: 1
  • - Distance from observer: M/S - not over a few hundred feet
  • - Time in sight: M/S
  • - Altitude: 30 feet - just above tree-tops
  • - Speed: 25 to 30 MPH
  • - Direction of flight: Headed south in bank to left
  • - Tactics: Gliding with no apparent spinning action
  • - Sound: No discernible sound
  • - Size: 6 to 8 feet long by 1-1/2 to 2 feet wide
  • - Color: Aluminum and shiny in color
  • - Shape: Shaped like a broad short propeller
  • - Odor detected: M/S
  • - Apparent construction: Aluminum construction
  • - Exhaust trails: None
  • - Weather conditions: CAVU - no clouds
  • - Effect on clouds: No clouds
  • - Sketches or photographs: 2
  • - Manner of disappearance: Went down in wooded area (seemingly)
references
  • - See attached drawing of location
  • - Attached sketch provided
notes
  • - Truck had just started across bridge when object was sighted
  • - Witnesses stopped on other side of cantilever bridge but could not relocate object
  • - Search by Lt John E. Haskins, Base PIO, and Lt Russell J. Carey, Jr., Base Intel Off. (331st AFSU) at Bes Tng Stout Fld. did not produce any result
  • - Believed to have fallen in densely wooded area with many hills and valleys
  • - See diagram attached

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statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Report - Continuation with Technical Diagram
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionContinuation page with detailed object description and technical sketch showing broad short propeller-shaped object with cup markings on upper surface, approximately 6-8 feet long.
observations
  • - Object shape: Shaped like broad short propeller, approximately 6 to 8 feet long, 2 feet wide and one foot thick
  • - Upper surface: Multiple cup-shaped indentations on upper side of blades
  • - Color: Aluminum and shiny in color
  • - Speed: Traveled approximately 25 to 30 MPH
  • - Altitude: Sighted just above trees at approximately 30 to 50 feet altitude (bank for approx 20 degrees)
  • - Appearance in descent: Slight descent observed
  • - Sound: No discernible sound and no ex-haust trail
sketches
  • - Technical sketch included showing propeller-blade configuration with cup indentations
  • - Signature: Signed by /s/ Russell J. Carey, Jr., 1st Lt., USAF, Intel Officer
locations
  • - Indianapolis sighting area with wooded terrain
  • - Sighting occurred just above trees

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statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Map/Diagram
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionDetailed location sketch map showing object sighting path and geographical features including bridge, woods, creek and road intersections in Indianapolis area.
locations
  • - Indianapolis, Indiana - northeastern part
  • - Geographic features labeled:
  • - Fall Creek
  • - E 56th St
  • - Cantilever Type Bridge
  • - Woods (multiple areas)
  • - Fall Green area (with label)
  • - Lady wood School (Approx 1/4 mi f/sighting)
observations
  • - Object path: Marked as "Path of Object" with directional indicators
  • - Sighting location: Near cantilever bridge
  • - Direction: Heading south in bank to left
sketches
  • - Hand-drawn map showing roads, waterways, wooded areas and relative positions
  • - Signed by /s/ Russell J. Carey Jr., 1st Lt., USAF, Intel Officer
references
  • - Cross-reference to Incident 151
  • - Location sketch attachment referenced in incident checklist

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statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionIncident checklist form for Swedish Coast sighting by Norwegian pilot observing projectile with bluish-green flame emitting near-earth trajectory.
incident_number150
dates - Approx 1 Mar 48 (March 1948)
times - 0930 hours
locations
  • - Swedish Coast
  • - Air - enroute from Aalberg, Denmark to Oslo, Norway
people - Observer: N/S - a Norwegian pilot
organizations
  • - ONL (Norwegian Commercial)
  • - Material taken from MA R-130-48, NAD 20569
occupations - ONL pilot (Norwegian)
observations
  • - Number of objects: 1
  • - Distance from observer: M/S
  • - Time in sight: 4 seconds
  • - Altitude: 20,000 ft
  • - Speed: M/S
  • - Direction of flight: Southeast - passing along Swedish Coast and disappearing over Norway
  • - Tactics: M/S - flight path followed earth's surface
  • - Sound: M/S
  • - Size: M/S
  • - Color: M/S but emitted a bluish-green flame
  • - Shape: M/S
  • - Odor detected: M/S
  • - Apparent construction: M/S
  • - Exhaust trails: None
  • - Weather conditions: M/S
  • - Effect on clouds: M/S
  • - Sketches or photographs: None
  • - Manner of disappearance: Over Norway
assessments
  • - Observed as projectile coming from southeast
  • - Passing along Swedish Coast
  • - Disappearing over Norway
  • - Missile was at 20,000 feet
  • - Disappeared in four seconds
  • - Emitted bluish-green flame but left no trail in sky
  • - Projectile seemed to follow earth's surface

agent_notes_1:

- Similar missiles have been observed at Bjuken, Norway and Finse, Norway

- Heavy water is currently being produced in Bjuken

agent_notes_2:

- Observer: Norwegian pilot and co-pilot

- Pilot served with Royal Norwegian AF in Great Britain

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page133
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Report - Continuation/Narrative
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionDetailed narrative of Norwegian pilot's observation of projectile sighting on Swedish Coast with trajectory analysis and contextual intelligence notes about similar sightings.
observations
  • - Location: ONL plane enroute from Aalberg, Denmark to Oslo, Norway
  • - Object: Sighted projectile coming from southeast
  • - Path: Passing along Swedish Coast and disappearing over Norway
  • - Altitude: 20,000 feet
  • - Duration: Visible for four seconds
  • - Trajectory: Missile appeared to follow earth's surface
  • - Appearance: Emitted bluish-green flame but left no trail in sky
  • - Disappearance: Went over horizon toward Norway
assessments
  • - Projectile characteristics indicated possible rocket or missile
  • - Bluish-green flame consistent with certain propulsion systems
  • - Flight path suggested deliberate course rather than natural phenomenon
  • - Low no-trail characteristic unusual for observed object type
references
  • - Similar missile sightings reported at Bjuken, Norway
  • - Similar missile sightings reported at Finse, Norway
intelligence_notes
  • - Heavy water production currently active in Bjuken
  • - Suggests possible connection between sightings and strategic/scientific activities
  • - Norwegian observer credibility: Served with Royal Norwegian AF in Great Britain
  • - Co-pilot corroborated observation
organizations_referenced
  • - ONL (Norwegian aviation service)
  • - Royal Norwegian AF

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doc_typeTechnical Sketch - UFO Object Diagram
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionTechnical hand-drawn sketch of unidentified object with propeller-blade configuration, showing top and side views with dimensional measurements and cup-shaped surface features.
observations
  • - Object configuration: Broad short propeller shape
  • - Dimensions: Approximately 6 to 8 feet long (upper measurement marked)
  • - Width: Approximately 1-1/2 to 2 feet at widest section (right measurement marked)
  • - Surface features: Multiple cup-shaped indentations distributed across upper blade surfaces
  • - Upper blade: Contains approximately 10-12 cup indentations arranged in pattern
  • - Lower blade: Contains similar pattern of cup indentations
sketch_details
  • - Two-view technical drawing (top and side profile)
  • - Includes dimensional reference lines and measurements
  • - Hand-drawn on document
  • - Signature block present
sources - Signed by /s/ Russell J. Carey, Jr., 1st Lt., USAF, Intel Officer
incident_referenceIncident 151

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page135
statuscomplete
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionIncident checklist form for Indianapolis sighting of cymbal-shaped object, white in color, observed at low altitude with high speed.
incident_number152
dates - 31 July 48 (1948)
times - 0825
locations - Indianapolis, Indiana (South-Central part)
people - Mr. & Mrs Vernon Swisgert (observers)
organizations - None specified
occupations - Swisgert: Electrician and housewife
addresses - 2020 Boyd St., Indianapolis, Indiana
observations
  • - Number of objects: 1
  • - Distance from observer: M/S
  • - Time in sight: 10 seconds
  • - Altitude: 2,000 ft
  • - Speed: 1800 MPH
  • - Direction of flight: 90 degrees - east
  • - Tactics: M/S
  • - Sound: None
  • - Size: REDACTED - 20 ft in dia. and approx 6 to 8 ft in height in center - Ratio about 3:1
  • - Color: White with no shine
  • - Shape: Like a cymbal
  • - Odor detected: M/S
  • - Apparent construction: M/S
  • - Exhaust trails: None
  • - Weather conditions: Sky clear
  • - Effect on clouds: M/S
  • - Sketches or photographs: 1
  • - Manner of disappearance: M/S
references - See attached remarks section
redactions - Specific size details marked as redacted (REDACTED appears before detailed measurements)

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (narrative continuation)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Page Description

Continuation of incident narrative with hand-drawn dimensional diagram of observed object. Shows side-view profile of cybal-shaped object with measurements and noted shadow area.

## Observations

details
  • Object first perceived in the west
  • Shaped like a cymbal with smooth surfaces
  • Approximately 20 feet in diameter at base, 6 to 8 feet in height at center
  • Flat white in color with no shine
  • Traveled extremely fast crossing sky in approximately 10 seconds (distance about 5 miles on level course)
  • Gave appearance of spinning as altitude was estimated at approximately 2,000 ft
  • Made no discernible sound
  • No exhaust trail
  • No openings noted on object

## Locations

West (direction of initial perception)

## People

details
  • Mr. Swigert: standing by open bathroom window facing west when attracted by object; rushed into adjoining kitchen and showed wife the object through kitchen window facing south
  • Wife of Mr. Swigert: witnessed object through kitchen window
  • 1st Lt. Russell J. Carey Jr. (USAF Intel Officer): conducted investigation

## Organizations

USAF Intel Office

## Assessments

details
  • Mr. Swigert stated object appeared large enough to carry one person
  • Visibility was good from both windows for such observation

## References

Investigation conducted by Intel Officer, 1st Lt Russell J. Carey, Jr. on a call from Mr. Swigert

## Notes

No other reports received on this object

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (diagram page)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Page Description

Hand-drawn technical diagram showing side-view profile of reported object. Measurements indicate height of 6 to 8 feet, length of 20 feet, with ratio approximately 3:1. Shows noted shadow area on underside.

## Observations

details
  • Object dimensions: 6 to 8 feet high, 20 feet diameter
  • Shape: cybal/lens-like with smooth curved surfaces
  • Noted shadow visible on lower portion

## People

detailsRussell J. Carey Jr., 1st Lt. USAF, Intel Officer (signature on diagram)

## Notes

Diagram rendered by investigating officer to document witness description

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (checklist form header)

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Page Description

Project Sign incident checklist form header for "Unidentified Flying Objects" with first few fields visible.

## Dates

5 August 48 (Incident #153)

## Observations

Time0100 hours

## Locations

Between Parrott, Ga. and Richland, Ga.

## People

detailsJames Amaral: Former AF Pilot (observer name)

## Organizations

Turner AF Base (information forwarded from)

## References

Incident # 153

## Notes

Visibility marked as good from both windows for observation. Form indicates N/S (not specified) for several fields.

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (narrative continuation)

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Page Description

Continuation of incident 153 narrative describing witness observations and analysis from former AF pilot.

## Dates

August 48, time not specified

## Observations

details
  • Witness traveling between Parrott, Ga. and Richland, Ga. in automobile
  • Observed brilliant blue-white streak of light which lasted from 5 to 10 seconds
  • Traveling on apparent level flight on heading of approximately 250 degrees
  • At about 30,000 ft altitude (estimated)
  • After light disappeared, trail of sparks was observed lasting from 45 seconds to 1 minute
  • Appeared to be burst of power supplied to a rocket or rocket ship

## People

details
  • James Amaral: Former AF Pilot, observer and analyst
  • 1st Lt Russell J. Carey Jr.: Investigating officer

## Assessments

details
  • Mr. Amaral did not believe observation to be any celestial phenomenon
  • Based on his experience as AF pilot, he stated it appeared to be a burst of power supplied to a rocket or rocket ship

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (checklist form)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Page Description

Project Sign incident checklist form for Incident #154, filled with standardized fields.

## Dates

2 Aug 48 (Incident #154)

Time1945 hours

## Locations

Columbus, Ohio

## People

detailsCharles Saunders: Attorney (observer)

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance of object from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: 10-15 minutes
  • Altitude: 1,500 to 2000 ft
  • Speed: 15 MPH
  • Direction of flight: Moving south from the north
  • Sound: None
  • Size: Judged to be about 20 to 30 ft in diameter
  • Color: N/S; Perimeter: constant gray-black; Center: transparent
  • Shape: Changing (First: side-view Parallelogram, Second: circular then reverted to original form)
  • Exhaust trails: thin trail of smoke
  • Weather conditions: CAVU (Ceiling And Visibility Unlimited)
  • Effect on clouds: No clouds
  • Sketches or photographs: 4 sketches

## Assessments

details
  • Object moved at constant slow speed
  • Once it hesitated and thin trail of smoke issued from opposite direction of travel
  • Object changed position but not direction of travel three times
  • When first seen presented side-view Parallelogram in shape
  • Became circular then reverted to original form
  • Altitude judged to be 1500 to 2000 ft above ground

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (narrative continuation)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Page Description

Detailed narrative continuation of incident 154 with description of object behavior and shape transformations observed over 15-minute period.

## Dates

2 Aug 48, approx 1945 hours

## Locations

Center of Columbus, Ohio

## People

details
  • Charles Saunders: Attorney, observer
  • Agent (investigator): drew sketches documenting observation

## Observations

details
  • Round object 20 to 30 ft diameter observed moving in southerly direction from north over center of Columbus
  • Had constant grey-black perimeter with transparent center
  • Blue sky could be observed through grey-black perimeter
  • Moved at constant slow speed about 15 MPH
  • Made no noise
  • Once hesitated in movements and thin trail of smoke issued from opposite direction of travel
  • Smoke soon disappeared and was not seen again during 10-15 minute observation period
  • Object was visible to observer
  • Object changed position three times but not direction of travel
  • When first seen presented side-view Parallelogram shape
  • Became circular then reverted to original form
  • Altitude judged 1500 to 2000 ft above ground

## Assessments

details
  • Four positions of one phase documented by sketches
  • Object passed through three of these phases during 15 minute period

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document38_143685_box7_Incident_Summaries_101-172

## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (checklist form)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Page Description

Project Sign incident checklist form for Incident #154a, containing observation details of similar object sighting.

## Dates

19 Aug 48

Time7:50 P.M.

## Locations

Columbus, Ohio

## People

detailsJaymes Saunders, A.B., M.A.: Housewife (observer)

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance of object from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: 15 minutes
  • Altitude: Approximately 1/2 mile high
  • Speed: slow and regular speed
  • Direction of flight: from North to South to Southwest
  • Shape: Changing but circular for the most part
  • Oblong to circular to oblong change in shape
  • Exhaust trails: tail of smoke
  • Weather conditions: Unusually favorable for observation. Light sufficient without interference from sun's rays
  • Effect on clouds: Cloudless
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Observations (Detailed)

details
  • Size of small plane
  • Color: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Sound: None

## Notes

Incident #154a appears to be continuation or follow-up sighting related to Incident #154

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## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (narrative continuation)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Page Description

Narrative account of Incident #154a continuing the description of unusual sky object observed by housewife in Columbus area with detailed behavioral analysis.

## Dates

2 Aug 48, 7:50 P.M.

## Locations

Columbus, Ohio (center area)

## People

details
  • Mrs. Saunders: housewife, observer
  • Charles Saunders: husband of witness (Incident #154)
  • Neighborhood children: noted looking toward north

## Observations

details
  • Mrs. Saunders' attention directed toward object in sky because neighborhood children were looking toward the north
  • Object first appeared oblong in shape traveling from north to south at slow, regular speed
  • Approximately 1/2 mile high during 15 minutes under observation
  • Traveled approximately 7-1/2 miles during observation period
  • Object did not change its course but presented different appearances from time to time
  • From oblong to circular then to oblong
  • Object went through shape change three different times until observer lost sight
  • When circular appearance occurred, outline very dark in contrast with the transparent center area
  • Only when shape appeared circular was observer aware of center being a void
  • When it hesitated, observer noticed a tail of smoke emanating from rear after which object continued in a southerly direction
  • This tail of smoke was observed but once
  • Size appeared to be that of small plane
  • Made no sound
  • At approx 6:00 P.M., observer lost sight of object as it appeared to be changing direction from South to Southwest

## Weather Conditions

details
  • Sky cloudless
  • Light sufficient without interference from rays of sun which were hidden by buildings of the city

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## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (checklist form)

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Page Description

Project Sign incident checklist form for Incident #155, containing standardized observation data fields.

## Dates

31 July 48 (Incident #155)

Time1630 hours

## Locations

480 N. Monroe Ave., Columbus, Ohio

## People

detailsMrs. Edward G. Watson: Housewife (observer)

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 6 or 7
  • Distance of object from observer: Very great distance away
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: N/S - very great
  • Speed: Hovering
  • Direction of flight: N/S
  • Tactics: Hovering - hanging in the sky
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: of an ash tray
  • Color: gold
  • Shape: starlike
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: N/S
  • Weather conditions: CAVU - bright sunlight
  • Effect on clouds: N/S
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Assessments

details
  • Objects first looked like large stars
  • Seemed to be at very great distance
  • Appeared to be about size of ash tray
  • Were not definite individually but just seemed to be group of spots glittering in sky
  • Were gold in color
  • Seemed to be just hanging in sky
  • Sky was clear and blue
  • Sun was shining bright but do not believe gold color caused by reflection of sun

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## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (narrative continuation)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Page Description

Witness statement for Incident #155 describing multiple gold-colored objects observed in the sky from Columbus, Ohio area.

## Dates

31 July 48

## Locations

Columbus, Ohio

## People

detailsWitness: corroborated by truck driver (name not obtained)

## Observations

details
  • Objects first looked like large stars
  • Seemed to be at very great distance
  • Appeared about size of ash tray
  • Were not definite individually but just seemed to be group of spots glittering in sky
  • Were gold in color
  • Seemed to be just hanging in sky
  • Sky was clear and blue
  • Sun was shining bright but do not believe gold color caused by reflection of sun

## References

detailsAdditional corroboration: Another witness (truck driver) stopped nearby and claimed to have never witnessed anything like it before

## Notes

detailsWitness identification corroborated by truck driver but could not obtain truck driver's name

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## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (checklist form)

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Page Description

Project Sign incident checklist form for Incident #156 describing object observed near WOSU radio tower in Columbus, Ohio area.

## Dates

31 July 48 (Incident #156)

Time8:00 P.M.

## Locations

Columbus, Ohio - Tremont Rd near WOSU radio tower, located near University Golf Course

## People

details
  • Mrs. Martin Price & Mrs. Mary Rippetoe: Observers
  • Mrs. Price: housewife
  • Mrs. Mary Rippetoe: mother of Mrs. Price

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance of object from observer: 250 feet
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: 250 feet
  • Speed: very slow
  • Direction of flight: West to East
  • Tactics: Did not change course or altitude
  • Sound: No noise
  • Size: of gasoline drum - Approx 5' x 6'
  • Color: Black (with strikethrough, possibly indicating correction)
  • Shape: Oblong
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: N/S
  • Exhaust trails: Spouted black smoke from the top
  • Weather conditions: Clear with no clouds
  • Effect on clouds: No clouds
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Observations (Detailed)

details
  • Large object resembling high platform was seen floating in the sky
  • Weather was clear
  • Still daylight so object could be seen quite clearly
  • About size of gasoline drum
  • Coming from west moving very slowly
  • It passed close to tower and was about 1/2 the height of tower from ground
  • As it passed overhead traveling east, it spouted black smoke from top and at bottom on left side there was dull enclosed light like that of a lamp
  • Object did not change its course or altitude but continued on to east with black smoke trailing behind
  • Object was black
  • Made no noise
  • No wings visible, no motor
  • No openings of any kind could be seen

## References

detailsAnother car stopped near them with two occupants who claimed they had never witnessed anything like it before

## Redactions

Text marked with strikethrough on "Color" field (Black)

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## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (narrative continuation)

## Classification

RESTRICTED

## Page Description

Detailed narrative account of Incident #156 describing object sighting near WOSU radio tower with physical characteristics and behavioral observations.

## Dates

Saturday evening, 31 July 48, approximately 8:00 P.M.

## Locations

Tremont Road, near WOSU Radio Tower, located on University Golf Course, Columbus, Ohio

## People

details
  • Mrs. Martin Price: housewife, observer
  • Mrs. Mary Rippetoe: mother of Mrs. Price, observer

## Observations

details
  • While driving south on Tremont Road as observers approached WOSU Radio Tower located on University Golf Course
  • Large object resembling high platform was seen floating in sky
  • Weather was clear and still daylight so object could be seen quite clearly
  • Oblong in shape, about size of gasoline drum
  • Coming from west moving very slowly
  • Passed close to tower and was about 1/2 height of tower from ground
  • As it passed overhead traveling east, it spouted black smoke from top
  • At bottom on left side there was dull enclosed light like that of a lamp
  • Object did not change its course or altitude but continued on to east with black smoke trailing behind
  • Object was black
  • Made no noise
  • No wings visible
  • No motor visible
  • No openings of any kind could be seen

## Notes

detailsAnother car stopped near them with two occupants who claimed they had never witnessed anything like it before

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## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (checklist form)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Page Description

Project Sign incident checklist form for Incident #157 describing object sighting near golf driving range in Columbus, Ohio.

## Dates

31 July 48 (Incident #157)

Time8:00 P.M.

## Locations

Columbus, Ohio - Near Golf Driving Range

## People

detailsRobert C. Goshorn: Teletype Operator (observer)

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance of object from observer: Object was balloon which fell to earth and was investigated by observer
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: Came to earth from ground 100 ft (when first observed)
  • Speed: N/S
  • Direction of flight: earthward
  • Tactics: N/S
  • Sound: N/S
  • Size: 2 ft x 3-1/2 ft
  • Color: white crepe paper
  • Shape: N/S - but said to be like old time "County Fair" balloon - round
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: crepe paper
  • Exhaust trails: smoking - caused by large ball of waste material
  • Weather conditions: N/S (clear - see Incident: 156)
  • Effect on clouds: N/S (no clouds)
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: Fell to earth where it was retrieved

## Observations (Detailed)

details
  • Object perceived floating in sky coming from west over Ohio State Student Housing Project
  • Approximately 100 feet off ground when first observed
  • Got lower all the time and landed in field nearby
  • Three small boys ran toward it and investigated
  • Saw paper bag affair approx 2 feet in diameter and 3-1/2 feet long made of white crepe paper (like old time "County-Fair" hot air balloons)
  • It was smoking when first observed
  • This was caused by a large ball of waste material which was tasted underneath it
  • No name or writing on it marked with strikethrough text

## Notes

detailsSee Incident 156 - in which time and direction tally

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## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (narrative continuation)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Page Description

Detailed witness account of Incident #157 describing observation of balloon-type object descending over housing project near Columbus, Ohio.

## Dates

1 Aug 48 (Incident #157 reference to Incident 156)

## Locations

Ohio State Student Housing Project, Columbus, Ohio area

## People

details
  • Observer: investigated recovered object
  • Three small boys: ran toward object and investigated

## Observations

details
  • Object perceived floating in sky coming from west over Ohio State Student Housing Project
  • Approximately 100 feet off ground when first observed
  • Got lower all the time and landed in field nearby
  • Three small boys ran toward it and investigated
  • Saw paper bag affair approximately 2 feet in diameter and 3-1/2 feet long
  • Made of white crepe paper (like old time "County-Fair" hot air balloons)
  • It was smoking when first observed
  • This was caused by a large ball of waste material which was tasted underneath it
  • No name or writing on it

## Assessments

details
  • Object identified as balloon-type construction
  • Similar time and directional indicators as Incident 156

## References

detailsCross-reference: See Incident 156 - in which time and direction tally

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## Status

partial_content

## Doc Type

UFO Incident Summary (checklist form)

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

## Page Description

Project Sign incident checklist form for Incident #158 describing visual sighting of unusual phenomenon near Groveport, Ohio.

## Dates

1 Aug 48 (Incident #158)

Time2100 P.M.

## Locations

Groveport, Ohio - 1 mile west of Groveport (location marked as "Groveport" with strikethrough)

## People

detailsHarold A. Yentis: Student (observer)

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance of object from observer: N/S
  • Time in sight: N/S
  • Altitude: Very high (marked with strikethrough)
  • Speed: N/S
  • Direction of flight: in westerly direction against a light wind
  • Tactics: N/S - just exhaust visible - smoke pattern dark and very large dispersed rapidly and appeared again as wide streak a mile or so in length twisted from wide to narrow streak and back
  • Sound: No sound
  • Size: N/S - object not seen
  • Color: N/S - object not seen
  • Shape: Just a streak observed
  • Odor detected: N/S
  • Apparent construction: An exhaust trail (smoke)
  • Exhaust trails: Appeared as black cloud with no definite shape but looked like a flat wide tail-aircraft shell a few seconds after it exploded
  • Weather conditions: Overcast with scattered cumulo-nimbus - Few white clouds - but clear
  • Effect on clouds: black cloud silhouetted among them that moved
  • Sketches or photographs: 3 figs.
  • Manner of disappearance: N/S

## Assessments

details
  • Object itself not observed, only exhaust trail/smoke pattern
  • Smoke dispersed rapidly and appeared as wide streak approximately a mile or so in length
  • Pattern twisted from wide to narrow streak and back

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Summary Narrative
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionContinuation narrative of Incident #159 featuring observer narrative and hand-drawn sketches

## Observations

Object appeared as a small black cloud between white ones, initially peculiar due to weather being clear except for a few white clouds in the sky. No dark clouds or formations of any kind present. Black cloud showed no definite shape but looked like an exit-aircraft shell after explosion.

Object suddenly stretched into a wide streak with smaller vertical streaks, rapidly turned and twisted, moving into a different direction and disappearing. Three or four seconds later, smoke pattern appeared approximately 20 miles west of initial location. Smoke pattern was dark, very large, and dispersed rapidly. Pattern appeared again as a wide streak about a mile away, appeared to twist from wide to narrow and back. Object continued moving in westerly direction against light wind. Visibility excellent, sight distance far away and very high. Sound like a streak that would be made if a flying wing with several engines had banking and turning, leaving exhaust trails.

### Observer Note

Yantis served in WWII and had seen many anti-aircraft shells burst and vapor trails from planes but had never observed anything like this. Yantis stated: "It was spontaneous like a rubber band which is round, then suddenly is stretched at length and twisted, and then disappears without a trace."

## Sketches

Agent noted that Yantis drew sketches showing
  • Streak twisted and turned - suddenly disappeared
  • Width same - length estimated at 1 to 2 miles
  • First position marked on sketch

## Redactions

Classified markingCONFIDENTIAL

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionProject Sign standardized checklist form for Incident #159

## Incident Details

**Incident Number:** 159

**Date:** 30 July 1948

**Time:** 2015 hours

**Location:** Worthington, Ohio

**Observer:** John A. Felton

**Observer Occupation:** N/S

**Observer Address:** 5800 High St, Worthington, Ohio

**Place of Observation:** Worthington, Ohio

**Number of Objects:** 1

## Physical Characteristics

**Distance from Observer:** N/S

**Time in Sight:** 15 minutes

**Altitude:** Approximately 3000 ft

**Speed:** Very slow

**Direction of Flight:** SW

**Size:** N/S

**Color:** Silver

**Shape:** Cylindrical

## Observable Phenomena

**Sound:** None

**Tactics:** None

**Odor Detected:** N/S

**Apparent Construction:** N/S

**Exhaust Trails:** N/S

**Weather Conditions:** Clear with high scattered clouds, visibility good

**Effect on Clouds:** N/S

**Sketches or Photographs:** None

**Manner of Disappearance:** N/S

## Notes

Form indicates (over) - continuation on next page

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Summary Narrative
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionContinuation narrative for Incident #159 (John A. Felton sighting)

## Observations

Object appeared cylindrical in shape with no apparent wings or tail surfaces. No standard marker lights displayed and no engine noises detected. Object emitted a steady silver glow.

Altitude judged to be approximately 3000 ft, moving very slowly in southwesterly direction. Object remained in line of vision approximately 15 minutes. No other aircraft, military or civilian, were in vicinity of Felton's location. Sky was clear with high scattered clouds and visibility was good.

## Note on Interview

Felton questioned by Major Campbell of the USAF, but nothing further was gained by this interview with the exception that his wife also saw the object.

## Classification

RESTRICTED

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionProject Sign standardized checklist form for Incident #160

## Incident Details

**Incident Number:** 160

**Date:** 4 July 1948

**Time:** 11:15 P.M.

**Location:** Drawasburg, Pa.

**Observer:** John Jannicky, Jr.

**Observer Occupation:** N/S

**Observer Address:** Box 227, Drawasburg, Pa.

**Place of Observation:** Drawasburg, Pa.

**Number of Objects:** 1

## Physical Characteristics

**Distance from Observer:** N/S

**Time in Sight:** 20 seconds +

**Altitude:** N/S

**Speed:** Hovering - then moving on at undetermined speed

**Direction of Flight:** N/S

**Size:** Of a star

**Color:** Same as a star

**Shape:** Looked like a star

## Observable Phenomena

**Sound:** No noise

**Tactics:** Moved across sky, stopping three times and resuming movement

**Odor Detected:** N/S

**Apparent Construction:** N/S

**Exhaust Trails:** N/S

**Weather Conditions:** N/S

**Effect on Clouds:** N/S

**Sketches or Photographs:** Vague sketch

**Manner of Disappearance:** N/S

## Notes

Form indicates (over) - continuation on next page

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Summary Narrative
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionContinuation narrative for Incident #160 (John Jannicky, Jr. sighting)

## Observations

On 4 July 1948 at approximately 11:15 P.M. OST, witness and his wife thought they saw a star moving. Light in the sky appeared same color and size of a star which was moving. [REDACTED - struck through text with heavy overstriking, content illegible]

Object moved across the sky, then changed its course a bit and went straight and stopped again for about 5 seconds. Changed course a bit and went straight for awhile and stopped again for a few less seconds. Then it went across the sky a little ways and disappeared completely. When the object stopped in the sky, it resembled a star and only by following its course could the difference be noticed.

## Note

Witness states that he lives some 2-1/2 miles from the two women (McKeesport, Pa.) who reported seeing a big silver plate zooming noiselessly overhead in the direction of Kennywood Park. See Incident 161.

## Redactions

Significant portion of text obscured by heavy striking through with typewriter, rendering content illegible but clearly indicating censored material regarding characteristics or behavior of the object.

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionProject Sign standardized checklist form for Incident #161

## Incident Details

**Incident Number:** 161

**Date:** Around July 8, 1948

**Time:** N/S

**Location:** McKeesport, Pa.

**Observers:** Mrs. Well Veway & Mrs. Elizabeth Goltz

**Observer Occupation:** Housewife

**Observer Addresses:**

details
  • Mrs. Veway: 3404 Grover Ave, McKeesport, Pa.
  • Mrs. Goltz: 2604 Grover Ave, McKeesport, Pa.

**Place of Observation:** McKeesport, Pa.

**Number of Objects:** 1

## Physical Characteristics

**Distance from Observer:** N/S

**Time in Sight:** N/S

**Altitude:** N/S

**Speed:** N/S

**Direction of Flight:** N/S - toward Kennywood Park

**Size:** 12 to 15 inches in diameter

**Color:** Silver

**Shape:** "Plate"

## Observable Phenomena

**Sound:** Noiseless

**Tactics:** N/S

**Odor Detected:** N/S

**Apparent Construction:** N/S

**Exhaust Trails:** N/S

**Weather Conditions:** N/S

**Effect on Clouds:** Disappeared in cloud bank

**Sketches or Photographs:** None

**Manner of Disappearance:** Disappeared in cloud bank

## Notes

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Summary Narrative
classificationRestricted
page_descriptionContinuation narrative for Incident #161 (McKeesport women's sighting)

## Observations

Witness saw what looked like a "big, silver plate" zooming noiselessly overhead in the direction of Kennywood Park.

Mrs. Veway stated: "Oh look, that's not a plane, screamed Mrs. Veway of 3404 Grover to her neighbor, Mrs. Goltz, 3604 Grover: 'It looked like one of those flying saucers.'"

Mrs. Veway said the disc was about 12 to 15 inches in diameter. It disappeared in a cloud bank but reappeared on far side and was seen by Mrs. Goltz. They followed the direction of the disc until out of sight.

## Source Documentation

**NOTE:** Taken from the Daily News "McKeesport, Pa. - July 8, 1948"

## Redactions

None

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionProject Sign standardized checklist form for Incident #162

## Incident Details

**Incident Number:** 162

**Date:** 11 Aug 1948

**Time:** 1200 and 1215 hours CST

**Location:** Hemel, Minnesota

**Observers:** Jerome Leuer (age 10) and Benne Leuer (age 8)

**Observer Occupation:** Children

**Observer Address:** R/R 1 Hemel, Minnesota

**Place of Observation:** As above - back yard

**Number of Objects:** 1

## Physical Characteristics

**Distance from Observer:** A matter of a few feet

**Time in Sight:** N/S

**Altitude:** Rested on ground

**Speed:** N/S

**Direction of Flight:** After resting on ground it ascended to a height of 30 feet and shot off in a northeasterly direction

**Size:** 1 ft thick - 2 feet wide

**Color:** Dull gray

**Shape:** Round

## Observable Phenomena

**Sound:** Whistling noise - like steam whistle

**Tactics:** Span once, made whistling noise, shot straight up 20 ft, halted and again made whistling noise. Maneuvered around tree branches & telephone wires.

**Odor Detected:** N/S

**Apparent Construction:** Metallic

**Exhaust Trails:** N/S

**Weather Conditions:** N/S

**Effect on Clouds:** N/S

**Sketches or Photographs:** None

**Manner of Disappearance:** Into northeast

## Notes

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Summary Narrative
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionContinuation narrative for Incident #162 (Jerome and Benne Leuer sighting, Hemel, Minnesota)

## Observations

Informants stated that on 11 Aug 1948 between 1200 and 1215 hours CST, Jerome and Benne were playing in the back yard and noticed an object in descent approximately twelve feet from the ground which was descending between the two of them. It settled to the ground gently - much as a balloon. Upon hitting the ground the object spun round, made a sort of whistling noise, described by the two boys as resembling a steam whistle, and then shot straight up into the air approximately 20 feet, halted and again made a whistling noise. The object then stopped around to a height of about 30 feet, and in this ascent, maneuvered around tree branches and telephone wires. Upon reaching a height of approximately 30 feet the object shot off in a northeasterly direction.

## Object Description

The boys described the object as "approximately one foot thick, two feet side and round." The object had no windows, wires, or any visible appendages. It was a dull gray in color and when it hit the ground, it made a slight clanking noise, much as metal hitting against metal.

## Witness Reactions

Philip and Mrs Leuer stated the boys were visibly frightened when they ran into the house and were afraid to tell what they had seen. Upon close questioning, the boys related the above story to them.

## Authorities Notified

Mr. Leuer advised that he then had notified Mr. E. R. Sheridan, Postmaster at Hemel, Minnesota (who subsequently notified the proper authorities)

## Agents Notes

Agent noted that the spot where the alleged "flying saucer" had landed was approximately 2 feet in diameter and appeared as though some heavy object had landed there. The grass had been set down as the ground was a weeds and protruding rocks had been leveled. The spot was covered by a washtub.

Mr. E. R. Sheridan, Postmaster, advised that he had no reason to doubt the story of the boys or of Mr. and Mrs. Leuer, and for this reason had reported the matter to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, St. Paul, Minn.

## Redactions

None

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionProject Sign standardized checklist form for Incident #163

## Incident Details

**Incident Number:** 163

**Date:** 22 July 1948

**Time:** Hour before dark

**Location:** Van Nuys, Calif

**Observer:** Capt Henry Glover & wife (Ord-Res)

**Observer Occupation:** Ordnance Reserve Officer

**Observer Address:** 8531 Variel Ave., Canoga Park, Calif

**Place of Observation:** Van Nuys, Calif

**Number of Objects:** 1

## Physical Characteristics

**Distance from Observer:** 2000+ ft overhead

**Time in Sight:** Approximately about an hour

**Altitude:** Great height

**Speed:** N/S

**Direction of Flight:** Toward the sun from the East or [REDACTED - marked through]

E to W

**Size:** Of weather balloon at 2000 ft

**Color:** Bluish luminescence like fluorescent lamp which gradually changed to orange color at dusk

**Shape:** Round tending to spherical

## Observable Phenomena

**Sound:** N/S

**Tactics:** Traveled a vertical arc of about 25° or more

**Odor Detected:** N/S

**Apparent Construction:** N/S

**Exhaust Trails:** N/S

**Weather Conditions:** CAVU ground temperature 70-75°

**Effect on Clouds:** N/S

**Sketches or Photographs:** None

**Manner of Disappearance:** Snapped off like a lamp when you throw switch

## Notes

Form indicates (over) - continuation on next page

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Summary Narrative
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionContinuation narrative for Incident #163 (Captain Henry Glover sighting, Van Nuys)

## Observations

Object appeared round and probably spherical. At first looked similar to weather balloon at about 2000 ft but there was no characteristic bobbing motion. The wind was blowing on the ground with fair strength and gusty yet the object was quite steady. In the time it was under observation (about an hour) it traveled thru a vertical arc of about 25° or more. After watching the object for a while the observer concluded that whatever it was, it was at great height but not a star. It had a bluish luminescence like a fluorescent lamp and as the sun set the color gradually changed to an orange color at dusk and finally snapped off like a lamp when the switch is thrown.

The outline was clear and sharp and symmetrical (no fuzziness or blurring). The air clear with visibility unlimited. Direction of travel from East directly toward the sun.

## Redactions

None

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionProject Sign standardized checklist form for Incident #164

## Incident Details

**Incident Number:** 164

**Date:** 29th June [19]48

**Time:** 11 P.M.

**Location:** Uniontown, Pa.

**Observer:** Mrs. Catherine McDonald

**Observer Occupation:** N/S - widow

**Observer Address:** 38 Kensington Circle, Uniontown

**Place of Observation:** Uniontown, Pa. - Observer's front porch

**Number of Objects:** Three - one at a time

## Physical Characteristics

**Distance from Observer:** N/S

**Time in Sight:** N/S

**Altitude:** 5000 ft

**Speed:** Very fast

**Direction of Flight:** NE

**Size:** N/S

**Color:** Luminous

**Shape:** Oval

## Observable Phenomena

**Sound:** None

**Tactics:** Spinning vertically on edge

**Odor Detected:** None

**Apparent Construction:** N/S - transparent

**Exhaust Trails:** Trail of light about 1 yard long

**Weather Conditions:** Stormy and cloudy

**Effect on Clouds:** N/S - flew across sky beneath base of clouds - lightning could be seen thru it.

**Sketches or Photographs:** Vague sketch

**Manner of Disappearance:** Lost sight of - Obstructed by neighboring houses

## Notes

Form indicates (over) - continuation on next page

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Summary Narrative
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionContinuation narrative for Incident #164 (Mrs. Catherine McDonald sighting, Uniontown)

## Observations

Witness saw a luminous, oval-shaped object flying at an altitude of approximately 5,000 ft which was traveling beneath the base of some storm clouds from southwest to northeast across the sky. The weather was stormy and cloudy and as a second object flew across the sky a flash of lightning could be seen thru it. It seemed to be transparent. The objects traveled very fast and seemed to just disappear within 10 seconds. The objects appeared at approximately five minute intervals. There was no color or sound from them. However, a trail of light about a yard long was observed. The objects rolled vertically on their edges and appeared to be spinning and traversed the sky. Witnesses lost sight of the objects as neighboring houses obstructed their view.

## Witnesses

details
  • Mrs. Margaret Holler
  • Police Sergeant Shuh & his daughter

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist - Unidentified Flying Objects
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionProject Sign standardized checklist form for Incident #165

## Incident Details

**Incident Number:** 165

**Date:** 26 July 1948

**Time:** 2100 hrs

**Location:** Chamblee, Ga.

**Observer:** Doyle L. Avery et al

**Observer Occupation:** Observer, Atlanta Naval Air Base

**Observer Address:** Atlanta Naval Air Base, Chamblee, Ga.

**Place of Observation:** Observation tower

**Number of Objects:** 1 blue white light

## Physical Characteristics

**Distance from Observer:** N/S

**Time in Sight:** N/S

**Altitude:** N/S

**Speed:** N/S - like shooting star

**Direction of Flight:** SE turning S and gaining altitude

**Size:** N/S

**Color:** Blue-white light

**Shape:** N/S - object not seen

## Observable Phenomena

**Sound:** None

**Tactics:** Straight & level & gaining altitude

**Odor Detected:** N/S

**Apparent Construction:** Like shooting star

**Exhaust Trails:** N/S - possibly the blue white light was the exhaust

**Weather Conditions:** 2/10 cirrus at 25,000 ft; 1 to 4/10 lower stratocirrus at 5,000 ft. Visibility 12 to 15 miles. Surf wind light & variable. 2-5 MPH

**Effect on Clouds:** N/S

**Sketches or Photographs:** None

**Manner of Disappearance:** N/S

## Notes

Form indicates (over) - continuation on next page

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statusreadable
doc_typeUFO Incident Summary Narrative
classificationConfidential
page_descriptionContinuation narrative for Incident #165 (Atlanta Naval Air Base observation)

## Observations

Observer, Doyle L. Avery Observer, Atlanta Naval Air Base, Chamblee, Ga. while on duty on the observation tower on 26 July 1948 at about 2100 hours sighted a blue-white light traveling southeasterly from northeast. It was traveling very fast and maintained a uniform altitude (undetermined) and speed. It looked like a shooting star except for the fact that it maintained the same altitude. While under observation it then ordered to gain altitude and then turned sharply to the south. The weather was clear and still. There was no sound. Shortly after sighting the light several residents of a given called and reported seeing the same thing. No flak left or arrived at the station after 1910 hours on 26 July 1948.

## Additional Incident #165a

Witnesses of this phenomena who were interviewed made statements as followsOn 25 July 1948 they were seated on the lawn of the Georgia School of Technology Housing Project at Chamblee, Ga. About 2045 hours Mrs. John Gall sighted a strange light and called it to the attention of her companions. The light appeared about the size of a football and was traveling southeast on a steady course. It was green and faded into a silver-colored tail. The light appeared to lose altitude slowly much the same and a plane coming in for a landing. It appeared to fade away in flight as if extinguished. No sound was heard.

## Witnesses (Incident #165a)

details
  • Mr. & Mrs. Harold Shaw
  • Mr. Robert Sebring
  • Mrs. Jeanne Hill
  • Mrs. Myrtle Benfroe
  • Mrs. John Gall

## Classification

CONFIDENTIAL

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incident_number166
statusextracted
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationRestricted

Page Description

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Standardized incident summary checklist for UFO sighting in Los Angeles, California on 30 August 1948.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 30 August 1948
  • Time: 20,000 hours (8:00 P.M.)

## People

detailsObserver: S/Sgt Leroy H. Estes

## Organizations

detailsU.S. Military (construction occupation listed as S/Sgt)

## Locations

details
  • Los Angeles, California
  • Observation point: 1301 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, California
  • Observer address: 1301 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Altitude: estimated well over 20,000 ft
  • Speed: thought to be well over 700 MPH
  • Direction of flight: West to East
  • Size: Larger than B-29
  • Color: silver
  • Shape: V-2 rocket
  • Construction: rocket-like
  • Exhaust trails: blue exhaust trail
  • Tactics: none - flew level course

## Assessments

details
  • No sound heard
  • Odor: not detected
  • Weather conditions: not specified
  • Effect on clouds: not specified
  • Manner of disappearance: not specified

## References

detailsRemarks continue on reverse (over)

## Redactions

details
  • Weather conditions marked "N/S" (not specified)
  • Several fields marked "N/S"

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statusextracted
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist (continuation)
classificationRestricted

Page Description

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Continuation of Incident 166 with detailed narrative description of sighting.

## Observations

details
  • Object resembled fuselage of V-2 rocket but much larger
  • B-29 length stated it was much larger than a B-29
  • Observer used 10 B-20 field glasses (German 88mm artillery piece lens) each lens 8" in diameter for viewing
  • Speed estimated well over 700 MPH
  • Object traveling at altitude well over 20,000 ft
  • Left blue exhaust trail
  • Object traveling from west to east
  • Only one object sighted

## Assessments

details
  • Object approached approximate position where ball of fire was observed on water surface
  • Single white light seen on water surface then disappeared within a few seconds
  • More lights immediately observed on water surface some 10 miles north of plane's course
  • It is the opinion of witness that lights were from surface vessel
  • Some 10 minutes elapsed after these lights were observed when aircraft was sighted flying reciprocal course (240°) at about 1000 ft below observer's aircraft and slightly to right of course

## References

detailsCapt Barnes made numerous attempts to contact aircraft on Channel "B" and "C", "VY" but acknowledgment never received

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incident_number167
statusextracted
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationConfidential

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 6 May 1948
  • Time: 0905 GCT

## People

details
  • Observer: Capt Floyd Barnes
  • Occupation: Pilot USAF

## Organizations

detailsUSAF Pacific Division, Military Air Transport Service

## Locations

details
  • Location: 19° 05' N - 164° 05' E between Kwajalein Island, Marshall Islands and Hickam Field
  • Place of observation: Ahead and above his plane

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance from observer: 4 to 5 miles
  • Time in sight: split second
  • Altitude: 10,000 ft
  • Speed: not specified
  • Direction of flight: not specified
  • Tactics: exploded like a shell
  • Color: white
  • Shape: ball
  • Construction: like "fire"
  • Sound: not specified
  • Odor: not detected

## Assessments

details
  • Manner of disappearance: exploded
  • No sound or streamers/tails observed as usually related to meteor or distress signal
  • Approximate position where ball of fire was observed, single white light on water surface, then disappeared within few seconds
  • More lights immediately observed on water surface some 10 miles north of plane's course

## References

details
  • Weather conditions: 5/10 cloud coverage
  • Sketches or photographs: none

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incident_number169
statusextracted
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationRestricted

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 29 August 1948
  • Time: 0530

## People

details
  • Observer: Mr. Faby Niswonger
  • Occupation: farmer

## Organizations

detailsNone specified

## Locations

details
  • Location: Maplewood, Ohio
  • Observer address: RD #1, Maplewood, Ohio; Phone: Jackson Central 8-QT42
  • Place of observation: Maplewood, Ohio

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Tactics: Arose from behind woods - seemed to unravel a silver substance that floated earthward
  • Size: large
  • Color: silver
  • Shape: sphere
  • Manner of disappearance: Disintegrated in mid-air

## Assessments

details
  • No sound heard
  • Odor: not detected
  • Apparent construction: not specified
  • Exhaust trails: silver substance (?)
  • Weather conditions: not specified
  • Effect on clouds: not specified
  • Sketches or photographs: None

## Redactions

details
  • Distance of object from observer: not specified
  • Time in sight: not specified
  • Altitude: not specified
  • Speed: not specified
  • Direction of flight: not specified

## Notes

details
  • Witness seemed very conscientious and sincere while relating incident
  • Object arose while witness was talking to man from this Command (MCLAFB) when airplane chanced to fly overhead

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incident_number168
statusextracted
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationRestricted

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 20 July 1948
  • Time: 1330 local

## People

details
  • Observer: A. D. Otter
  • Occupation: Chief Investigator of Court of Damage

## Organizations

detailsNone specified

## Locations

details
  • Location: Obrechestreet, Arnhem, The Hague
  • Observer address: Arnheim, The Hague
  • Place of observation: 52° 30' N, 4° 30' E

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Altitude: very high
  • Speed: high speed - comparable to V-2
  • Direction of flight: not specified
  • Tactics: not specified
  • Color: not specified
  • Shape: Aircraft with 2 decks and no wings
  • Sound: Same as V-2
  • Size: not specified
  • Odor: not detected
  • Apparent construction: not specified
  • Exhaust trails: not specified

## Assessments

details
  • Weather conditions: visibility unlimited - scattered clouds
  • Effect on clouds: not specified
  • Sketches or photographs: None
  • Manner of disappearance: not specified

## Quotes

details"Object appeared to be wingless aircraft with two decks. It was traveling at very high altitude and was seen four times intermittently thru clouds. Visibility: unlimited."

## Redactions

details
  • Distance of object from observer: not specified
  • Time in sight: not specified

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incident_number170
statusextracted
doc_typeIncident Summary Sheet (prose format)
classificationRestricted

## Dates

details
  • Observation: On or about 5 May 1948
  • Location: Adapazari, Turkey

## People

detailsObserver: News item extracted from Turkish newspaper "Yeni Sabah" Istanbul, 5 May 1948

## Organizations

detailsTurkish military/authorities

## Locations

details
  • Adapazari, Turkey
  • On ground in village near Adapazari, Turkey
  • Nearby village (where parts fell)

## Observations

details
  • Rocket reported passed over Adapazari
  • Object claimed to have come from Russian test range at Mt. Alagos close to Turkish frontier
  • Object flying at altitude of 200 meters over Adapazari before it fell
  • Rocket exploded in air
  • Parts fell into village near Adapazari, killing a dog
  • Thing found to be a rocket (debris to be inspected by experts)

## Assessments

details
  • Observers say rocket claimed to have come from Russian railway test range in the facility
  • Some people suspect objects that night to be rockets
  • Information received from authorized circles reveals that such a flying passed over Adapazari and was seen to explode in air
  • According to rumors, it is possible that the rocket is connected with "flying disc" experiments being conducted by Russians at station on Mt. Alagos close to Eastern frontiers

## References

details
  • Source: NA Ankara, Turkey, 10 May 1948, Serial 86-118, Eval P-O
  • Comment: Air Attache, Ankara, Turkey has been requested to investigate this incident fully and encourage Turkish General Staff to do likewise

## Organizations

detailsAir Attache at Ankara directed to determine sources for information contained in Yeni Sabah article

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statusextracted
doc_typeIncident Summary Continuation (prose format)
classificationRestricted

Page Description

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Continuation of Incident 170 Turkish rocket/UAP report with analysis and assessment.

## Observations

details
  • Large object passed over Mapazari
  • Flying object crashed and was seen to explode in air
  • Parts fell into a village
  • Debris found to be a rocket

## Assessments

details
  • Observers say rocket was claimed to have come from runway test range in facility
  • Rocket which claimed to have come from railway test range at altitude of 200 meters over Adapazari before it fell
  • According to rumors, it is possible that rocket is connected with "flying disc" experiments being conducted by Russians at station on Mt. Alagos close to Eastern frontiers

## References

details
  • Source: NA Ankara, Turkey, 10 May 1948, Serial 86-118, Eval P-O
  • Comment: Air Attache, Ankara, Turkey has been requested to investigate this incident fully and encourage Turkish General Staff to do likewise. Whether incident can be confirmed or not, Air Attache has been directed to determine sources for information contained in Yeni Sabah article.

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statusextracted
doc_typeIncident Summary Continuation (prose format)
classificationRestricted

Page Description

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Additional continuation with complete assessment and source information for Incident 170.

## Observations

details
  • Some people suspect that there might be rockets
  • Information received from authorized circles reveals that such a thing passed over Adapazari
  • Was seen to explode in the air
  • Parts of it fell into a village nearby and killed a dog
  • The thing was found to be a rocket and the debris will be inspected by experts
  • Observers say the rocket which is claimed to have come from the railway test range was flying at an altitude of 200 meters over Adapazari before it fell

## Assessments

detailsAccording to rumors, it is possible that the rocket is connected with the "flying disc" experiments being conducted by the Russians at the station on Mt. Alagos close to the Eastern frontiers

## References

details
  • Source: NA Ankara, Turkey, 10 May 1948, Serial 86-118, Eval P-O
  • Comment: Air Attache, Ankara, Turkey has been requested to investigate this incident fully and encourage Turkish General Staff to do likewise. Whether incident can be confirmed or not, Air Attache has been directed to determine sources for information contained in Yeni Sabah article.

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incident_number171
statusextracted
doc_typeIncident Summary Sheet (prose format)
classificationRestricted

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 3 August 1948
  • Time: Sunset
  • Location: About 25 kilometers (15-20 miles) NW of Moscow

## People

details
  • Observer: American newspaper reporter
  • Observer's acquaintance: A man who also saw the object at the same time

## Organizations

detailsAmerican newspaper (reporter assigned to Moscow)

## Locations

details
  • Moscow, USSR
  • About 25 kilometers northwest of Moscow

## Observations

details
  • Object observed at very high altitude
  • Long and narrow shape
  • Proceeded at high but not excessive speed in generally southwest-northeast direction
  • Shone very brightly, probably from reflected sunlight
  • No wings could be seen
  • No sound was heard
  • Looked like a rigid airship
  • Was so identified by a Russian acquaintance who saw it at same time

## Assessments

details
  • Reporter in spite of appearance of object was of opinion that it was not a rigid airship due principally to its high speed
  • Had no theory to offer
  • Possibility that it was a dirigible should not be excluded
  • Reference "A" should not be excluded

## Weather Conditions

detailsUpper winds in Russia are not published but it was noted that on the following morning there were high surface winds with storm predictions

## Notes

details
  • This object might have been anything
  • Its speed seems insufficient for a guided missile, but could have been either a jet or conventional airplane
  • Unusual light conditions and fore-shortening frequently give aircraft a freakish appearance

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incident_number171
statusextracted
doc_typeIncident Summary Continuation (prose format)
classificationRestricted

Page Description

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Continuation of Incident 171 with complete assessment and analysis.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: About Sunset on 3 August 1948
  • Location: About 25 kilometers (20 miles) northwest of Moscow

## Observations

details
  • Unidentified object at very high altitude
  • Long and narrow shape
  • Proceeded at high but not excessive speed in generally southwest-northeast direction
  • Shone very brightly, probably from reflected sunlight
  • No wings could be seen
  • No sound was heard
  • Looked like a rigid airship
  • Identified by Russian acquaintance who saw it at same time as a rigid airship

## Assessments

details
  • Reporter, in spite of appearance of object, was of opinion that it was not a rigid airship due principally to its high speed
  • Had no theory to offer
  • Possibility that it was a dirigible should not be excluded

## References

details
  • Reference "A" should not be excluded
  • Upper winds in Russia are not published but it was noted that on the following morning there were high surface winds with storm predictions

## Comments

detailsNA COMMENT: This object might have been anything. Its speed seems insufficient for a guided missile, but it could have been either a jet or a conventional airplane as unlikely light conditions and fore-shortening frequently give aircraft a freakish appearance

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incident_number171
statusextracted
doc_typeIncident Summary Continuation (prose format)
classificationRestricted

Page Description

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Additional narrative continuation of Incident 171 describing the Moscow sighting with full context.

## Dates

details
  • Observation: About Sunset on 3 August 1948
  • Location: About 25 kilometers (20 miles) northwest of Moscow

## Observations

details
  • About Sunset on 3 Aug 1948, about 25 kilometers (20 miles) northwest of Moscow an unidentified American newspaper reporter saw an unidentified object in flight at very high altitude
  • It was long and narrow and proceeded at a high but not excessive speed in a generally southwest-northeast direction
  • It shone very brightly, probably from reflected sunlight
  • No wings could be seen and no sound was heard
  • It looked like a rigid airship and was so identified by a Russian acquaintance who saw it at the same time
  • However, the reporter in spite of the appearance of the object was of opinion that it was not a rigid airship due principally to its high speed
  • He had no theory to offer

## Assessments

details
  • NA COMMENT: This object might have been anything. Its speed seems insufficient for a guided missile, but it could have been either a jet or a conventional airplane as unlikely light conditions and fore-shortening frequently give aircraft a freakish appearance
  • The possibility that it was a dirigible should not be excluded
  • Reference "A" should not be excluded

## Weather Conditions

detailsREFERENCE A: The upper winds in Russia are not published but it was noted that on the following morning there were high surface winds with storm predictions

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incident_number172
statusextracted
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist (incomplete/partially visible)
classificationConfidential

Page Description

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Partially visible incident summary form showing fragments of multiple checklist items.

## Visible Fields

details
  • Item referencing "18 Fed House Proj"
  • Distance of object from observer: 1000 ft at closest point
  • Direction of flight: [visible but text cut off]
  • Odor detected: [text cut off]
  • Apparent construction: none noted
  • Exhaust trails: [text cut off]
  • Manner of disappearance: Northern lights were visible

## Redactions

Most of the page content is heavily obscured or illegible, with only partial field headers and fragmented data visible.

## Notes

details
  • Reference to "Northern lights were visible" suggests potential northern latitude location
  • Multiple form fields visible but mostly incomplete

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incident_number172
statusextracted
doc_typeUFO Incident Checklist
classificationConfidential

## Dates

details
  • Observation: 1 October 1948
  • Time: 2100 hrs

## People

details
  • Observer: George F. Gorman
  • Occupation: Manager of Construction Company, Pilot of F-51 in Air N.G.

## Organizations

detailsAir National Guard

## Locations

details
  • Location: Fargo, North Dakota
  • Observer address: Bldg. 18 Fed House Proj, Fargo, North Dakota
  • Place of observation: from Airplane over Fargo and vicinity

## Observations

details
  • Number of objects: 1
  • Distance from observer: 1000 feet at closest point
  • Time in sight: 27 minutes
  • Altitude: from 1000 to 14000 ft
  • Speed: much faster than F-51
  • Direction of flight: various
  • Tactics: several left turns, one right turn, diving and climbing
  • Size at closest observation: 6 to 8 inches
  • Color: clear white
  • Shape: round at all times
  • Sound: None noted
  • Odor: not detected

## Assessments

details
  • Apparent construction: none noted
  • Exhaust trails: none seen
  • Weather conditions: CAVU (Clear and Unlimited Visibility)
  • Effect on clouds: none
  • Sketches or photographs: none
  • Manner of disappearance: in steep climb

## Redactions

detailsVarious tactical maneuvers documented

## References

detailsRemarks: Northern lights were visible in the NE quadrant.