UAP Archive
← Back to Catalog
FBI SECRET

Flying Discs - Case File 62-HQ-83894, Section 1 (Serials 1-52)

Date July 7, 1947
Location Grafton, Wisconsin; Washington, D.C.
Type Case File Section / Newspaper Clipping
Pages 200

First section of the FBI's main headquarters file on flying discs. Opens with a Washington Post clipping reporting a Catholic priest in Grafton, Wisconsin found an 18-inch warm metal disc with gadgets and wires in his parish yard.

flying disc1947 wavephysical evidenceGrafton Wisconsinnewspaper clipping

On July 8, 1947, an FBI teletype out of the Eighth Air Force described a hexagonal object dangling from a 20-foot balloon, recovered near Roswell and already en route to Wright Field. That's the Bureau's Roswell paper trail: one paragraph, filed and forgotten. But surrounding it in this section is something more revealing. In the summer of '47, with saucer reports flooding in from citizens, police, and military personnel alike, J. Edgar Hoover's FBI decided it didn't want the job. A July 7 internal memo from K.C. Howe to D.M. Ladd made it official: let Army Intelligence handle it. The Bureau would take reports, forward them, and wash its hands. And yet they couldn't look away entirely. Photographs came in from Phoenix. Multiple Portland police officers watched chromium-like objects oscillating silently at high altitude. One witness claimed a landed object made her sick and blind. Hoover himself sent correspondence to the War Department by special messenger on August 5. The FBI's flying disc file begins not with conviction but with bureaucratic discomfort: something was happening, and nobody wanted to own it.

  • FBI Director Hoover corresponded directly with War Department Intelligence about flying disc matters via special messenger (August 5, 1947)
  • The Roswell FBI teletype (July 8, 1947) described a hexagonal object suspended from a 20-foot balloon, assessed as a high-altitude weather balloon with radar reflector, being transported to Wright Field for examination
  • FBI internal policy (July 7, 1947) explicitly directed field offices to let G-2 handle flying disc cases and avoid assuming investigative responsibility
  • Multiple Portland police officers and patrol cars independently observed disc-shaped objects on July 5, 1947, describing oscillating chromium-like objects at high altitude with no engine noise
  • Photographic evidence was collected, including enlargements of objects photographed over Phoenix/Williams Field on July 8, 1947
  • Scientific analyses of alleged disc materials consistently found mundane explanations (pipe tobacco ash)
  • Citizens proposed geographic pattern theories connecting sighting locations to orbital mechanics
  • A witness narrative described physical effects (sickness and blindness) attributed to electromagnetic exposure from a landed object
200 pages

## Page 001 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** Case file cover/routing document

**classification:** Not visible on cover (FOIPA processing indicators present)

**page_description:** Cover of FBI Headquarters case file 62-HQ-83894, Section 1, Serials 1-52. Contains file routing stamps, file control number (RRP0031XHS), "DO NOT DESTROY" instruction with FOIPA date (May 24, 2007), and administrative processing labels.

**dates:** 8/11/1274199 (file routing stamp date); May 24, 2007 (FOIPA declassification guide issue date)

**people:** Not listed

**organizations:** FBI Central Records Center, FBI Headquarters

**locations:** Not specified

**observations:** Standard FBI case management cover with control number 0062-83894, containing 52 serial documents in Section 1

**assessments:** Routine administrative document

**references:** FOIPA declassification procedures

**redactions:** None visible

**quotes:** None

## Page 002 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** Newspaper article with FBI routing stamp

**classification:** Not visible (appears to be declassified)

**page_description:** Newspaper article from Washington Post (JUL 7 1947, Page 1-3) with FBI routing stamps. Headline reads "Priest Finds 'Whirring' Disc In Yard and Holds It for FBI" from Chicago, July 6 UPI.

**dates:**

details
  • Incident date: July 6, 1947 (Chicago incident)
  • Military investigation: described as occurring "10 days" before article date
  • Publication date: July 7, 1947 (Washington Post)
  • FBI receipt stamp: JUL 10 1947

**people:**

details
  • Joseph Brasky (priest, St. Joseph's Church, Grafton, Wisconsin)
  • Capt. Tom Brown (Army Air Forces public relations)
  • H. K. Johnson (Army Milwaukee office)
  • Dr. Winfred Overholser (psychiatrist, St. Elizabeths Hospital)
  • Alexander P. de Seversky (aircraft designer)
  • David Lilienthal (Atomic Energy Commission chairman)
  • Major Gen. Curtis E. LeMay (Deputy Chief of Air Staff for Research and Development)
  • Gen. Carl Spaatz (Air Force Chief)
  • Hazen Kennedy (Washington DC area witness)
  • Mrs. Maj. John Gamoe (Maryland witness)
  • A. Dishman (Idaho housewife, St. Maries)
  • Nova Hart (St. Louis mechanic, WWII aircraft spotter)

**organizations:**

details
  • FBI
  • Army Air Forces
  • Atomic Energy Commission
  • National Guard (Oregon)
  • U.S. Army

**locations:**

details
  • Grafton, Wisconsin
  • St. Joseph's Church
  • Milwaukee
  • Kentucky
  • New Mexico
  • California
  • Oregon
  • Washington
  • Idaho
  • Colorado
  • South Carolina
  • Eastern Canada
  • St. Louis
  • Arizona
  • Pacific Northwest
  • Hawaiian Islands
  • Northwestern Pacific

**observations:**

details
  • Round pressed metal disc found in priest's yard, approximately 18 inches in diameter, resembling circular saw blade
  • Object still warm when found, weighed 4-5 pounds, approximately 1/8 inch thick
  • One-inch diameter hole in center with "gadgets and some wires" inside
  • Flying discs reported "seen" by persons in 30 US states
  • Military plane attempted unsuccessful speed dash to track disc
  • Army planes scoured northwest Pacific skies without success
  • One "eyewitness" reported seeing disc take off in Arizona
  • St. Louis railroad man exhibited paper "discs" claimed to be floating over St. Louis
  • Flying saucers reported at speeds up to 1200 miles per hour
  • Discs evaded radar detection
  • Dr. Overholser diagnosed "national hysteria" similar to witchcraft scares
  • Optical illusion theory advanced: at distance, small objects appear round and flat
  • Described by mechanics as circular with ribbed framework and silver-gray color
  • Central propeller-like rotating structure mentioned
  • Objects compared to five-room house size by some witnesses

**assessments:**

details
  • Dr. Overholser: "has some of the earmarks of being national hysteria"
  • Blakeslee (AP science editor): "whole business may be an optical illusion"
  • LeMay statement: "nothing resulting from experiments by Army Air Forces"
  • Hoover/FBI response: acknowledged existing but "haven't the slightest idea what they could be"
  • Atomic Energy Commission dismissed nuclear transmutation explanation

**references:**

details
  • Flying saucer reports from 30 US states
  • Military radar tracking attempts
  • Army Air Forces investigation ongoing for 10 days
  • Atomic bomb test-site comparisons made
  • Witchcraft hysteria parallels cited

**redactions:** None apparent

**quotes:**

details
  • "There's nothing about guided missiles," (quoted priest response)
  • "The one outstanding fact about virtually all the saucers is that they had no structure—they seemed merely round and flat"
  • "After all, we are more or less an imbecilic Nation"
  • "I don't think the Government would fire them so promiscuously"
  • "Whatever these people have seen it hasn't been anything resulting from experiments by the Army Air Forces"

## Page 003 Extraction

**status:** no_content

**doc_type:** Blank/mostly blank page

**classification:** Not applicable

**page_description:** Back of newspaper clipping or blank routing page with minimal visible content. Contains reverse-side impressions from printed text but not legible.

**dates:** Not visible

**people:** Not visible

**organizations:** Not visible

**locations:** Not visible

**observations:** Page appears to be back side of newspaper article or blank routing sheet

**assessments:** Administrative filler

**references:** None

**redactions:** N/A

**quotes:** None

## Page 004 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** Newspaper article (continuation)

**classification:** Not visible (declassified)

**page_description:** Continuation of newspaper article "Priest Finds 'Whirring' Disc In Yard and Holds It for FBI" with multiple columns and expert commentary on flying saucer sightings.

**dates:** July 1947 (context from previous page)

**people:**

details
  • Dr. Winfred Overholser (psychiatrist, St. Elizabeths Hospital, Washington DC)
  • Dr. C. Blakeslee (Associated Press science editor)
  • Alexander P. de Seversky (aircraft designer, quoted by telephone from New York)
  • David Lilienthal (Atomic Energy Commission chairman)
  • Major Gen. Curtis E. LeMay (Deputy Chief of Air Staff for Research and Development)
  • Gen. Carl Spaatz (Air Force Chief)
  • Louis E. Starr (national commander, Veterans of Foreign Wars)
  • Hazen Kennedy (Washington DC, 2615 E St. NE)
  • Mrs. Maj. John Gamoe (Hagerstown, Maryland)
  • Nova Hart (St. Louis mechanic, WWII aircraft spotter)

**organizations:**

details
  • St. Elizabeths Hospital (Washington DC)
  • Associated Press
  • Army Air Forces
  • Atomic Energy Commission
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars
  • National Guard (Oregon)
  • FBI
  • Muroe Army Air Field (California)

**locations:**

details
  • Washington, DC
  • New York
  • St. Elizabeths Hospital
  • Pacific Northwest
  • St. Louis
  • Hagerstown, Maryland
  • Ohio
  • California (Muroe Army Air Field)
  • Arizona
  • Columbia District

**observations:**

details
  • Saucer objects described as having no internal structure, merely "round and flat"
  • Description matches optical illusion trick of viewing objects at distance
  • Ribbed framework, silver-gray coloration reported
  • Central motor with propeller-like rotating mechanism described
  • Objects made abrupt maneuvers
  • Flying patterns described as "fluttering like leaves"
  • Priest's disc object still warm when found
  • Metal composition consistent with ordinary materials
  • Expert testimony indicates multiple plausible explanations

**assessments:**

details
  • Dr. Overholser: Diagnosed "national hysteria" comparable to witchcraft scares
  • Optical illusion theory: "At a distance which is close to the limit of how far a person can see, all objects appear round or nearly so"
  • Blakeslee: "optical illusion" explanation
  • de Seversky: Possible jet-propelled aircraft exhaust or guided missiles
  • LeMay: "nothing resulting from experiments by the Army Air Forces"
  • Atomic Energy Commission dismissal of transmutation theory
  • General conclusion: "None has been convincing"

**references:**

details
  • Witchcraft historical parallels
  • Radar detection failures
  • Military jet aircraft capabilities
  • Atomic bomb test comparisons
  • Optical physics principles
  • Government experiment speculation

**redactions:** None apparent

**quotes:**

details
  • "There's nothing about guided missiles," he said, Blakeslee quoting priest
  • "The one outstanding fact about virtually all the saucers is that they had no structure—they seemed merely round and flat. That description fits exactly with the tricks that eyes play"
  • "Everytime someone comes up with a sea-serpent story, others with vivid imaginations are sure they have seen the same thing"
  • "The critical faculty in man, the last one he received, is still not very well developed"
  • "I don't think the Government would fire them so promiscuously. They would test them in one spot, an isolated area, like they did the atomic bomb"
  • "Whatever these people have seen it hasn't been anything resulting from experiments by the Army Air Forces. As for as I'm concerned there's nothing to it at all"

## Page 005 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** Postal envelope/cover

**classification:** Not applicable

**page_description:** Addressed postal envelope with 5-cent U.S. postage stamp. Hand-addressed to "F. B. D." in Washington, District of Columbia. Postmark stamp shows "NEW BRUNSWICK N.J." with date "JUL 2 M 1947" (July 2, 1947, mid-morning).

**dates:** July 2, 1947 (postmark date)

**people:**

details
  • Sender: "F. B. D." or similar initials (unclear)
  • Recipient: Implied FBI (abbreviation)

**organizations:**

details
  • FBI (recipient implied by "F. B. D.")
  • U.S. Post Office (New Brunswick, New Jersey)

**locations:**

details
  • New Brunswick, New Jersey (postmark origin)
  • Washington, District of Columbia (destination)

**observations:**

details
  • Standard business envelope format
  • Standard 5-cent postage of era
  • Hand-written address
  • Contemporaneous with July 1947 flying saucer reports

**assessments:** Routing envelope for correspondence to FBI

**references:** Postal routing system

**redactions:** None

**quotes:** None (address only)

## Page 006 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** Handwritten letter

**classification:** "ANONYMOUS COMMUNICATION" stamp visible; "KEEP ENVELOPE ATTACHED" notation

**page_description:** Handwritten letter addressed "Dear F.B.D." in script. Contains witness statement regarding flying disc sightings across multiple U.S. locations.

**dates:**

details
  • Letter content references sightings reported/seen across multiple states
  • Handwritten date notation shows "82 JUL 8 1947" (July 8, 1947)
  • Recording stamp shows "32 JUL 8 1947"

**people:**

details
  • Sender: Anonymous (signature/identification redacted or not provided)
  • F.B.D. (recipient, appears to be FBI official)

**organizations:**

detailsFBI (implied recipient)

**locations:**

details
  • Kentucky
  • New Mexico
  • California
  • Oregon
  • Washington
  • Idaho
  • Colorado
  • South Carolina
  • Eastern Canada
  • General statement of sightings across these regions

**observations:**

details
  • Statement claims "flying discs" reported "seen" across enumerated states
  • Anonymous writer expresses that "some" country is "seeing them if falling from sky with some kind of explosives"
  • References to objects disappearing after couple thousand miles
  • Description suggests objects moving across vast distances

**assessments:**

details
  • Anonymous submission to FBI
  • Contains eyewitness allegations across multiple geographic regions
  • Suggests systematic or coordinated observation pattern

**references:**

details
  • Widespread multi-state sightings
  • Explosion sounds reported
  • Distance/disappearance pattern noted

**redactions:**

details
  • Name/signature of author (appears redacted in document)
  • Specific details of some observations

**quotes:**

details"It is my opinion about those flying discs reported seen over Kentucky, New Mexico, California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Colorado, South Carolina and Eastern Canada that some [redacted] country is seeing them if falling [unclear] with some kind of explosives, and after a couple thousand miles they [unclear] their contents and disappear."

## Page 007 Extraction

**status:** no_content

**doc_type:** Blank or minimally visible page

**classification:** Not applicable

**page_description:** Mostly blank page with minimal handwritten notation at bottom. Appears to be continuation sheet or back of letter with only signature or brief marks visible.

**dates:** Not clearly visible

**people:** Not visible

**organizations:** Not visible

**locations:** Not visible

**observations:** Page shows minimal content, possibly back of previous letter or blank routing page

**assessments:** Administrative filler or blank continuation

**references:** None

**redactions:** N/A

**quotes:** None legible

## Page 008 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** FBI teletype transmission/routing document (pink form)

**classification:** Not visible on form

**page_description:** Pink FBI Communications Section teletype form dated JUL 8, 1947, 11:22 AM (TMC time). Subject line reads "RE FLYING DISCS, MISCELLANEOUS. DISC REPORTED FOUND BY F. G. ARISTON REVEALED TO BE PRANK. WEEKS FLY ING SAUCERS All Recalled."

**dates:**

details
  • Teletype transmitted: July 8, 1947, 11:22 AM
  • Content references recent weeks of flying saucer sightings

**people:**

details
  • F. G. Ariston (reported disc finder)
  • Recipients: FBI New Orleans Director, FBI Washington Bureau (indicated by routing stamps)

**organizations:**

details
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • FBI New Orleans Field Office
  • FBI Washington Bureau
  • Communications Section (FBI)

**locations:**

detailsNot specified in visible portion

**observations:**

details
  • Disc found by private citizen (F. G. Ariston)
  • Disc determined to be hoax/prank
  • Multiple sightings occurring during same period
  • FBI coordinating response across field offices

**assessments:**

details
  • Reported sighting was confirmed as prank
  • Part of larger wave of flying saucer reports
  • FBI investigating across multiple jurisdictions

**references:**

details
  • Flying discs (general category)
  • Miscellaneous incidents
  • Recent weeks sighting reports

**redactions:** Portion of message text partially obscured/illegible

**quotes:**

details
  • "DISC REPORTED FOUND BY F. G. ARISTON"
  • "REVEALED TO BE PRANK"
  • Title reference: "Flying Saucers All Recalled"

## Page 009 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** FBI routing/receipt document

**classification:** Not clearly visible

**page_description:** Pink FBI internal routing document indicating "RECEIVED LIAISON SECTION" with timestamp "9-11 AM 07" (9:11 AM) and "FAT DEPT. OF JUSTICE" notation. Contains handwritten routing stamps and administrative processing marks.

**dates:**

detailsReceipt date/time: 9:11 AM on date not fully legible (July context from surrounding documents)

**people:** Not specifically named

**organizations:**

details
  • FBI Liaison Section
  • Department of Justice (FAT - Federal Attorney's office or similar)

**locations:** Not specified

**observations:**

details
  • Document shows internal FBI circulation and tracking
  • Part of standard administrative processing
  • Multiple routing stamps indicate document passed through several FBI sections

**assessments:** Administrative routing document

**references:** Standard FBI document circulation procedures

**redactions:** Some handwritten notations difficult to read

**quotes:** None meaningful

## Page 010 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** Official letter from FBI Director to War Department Intelligence

**classification:** Contains declassification notation "DECLASSIFIED BY [initials] 10-26-1?"

**page_description:** Formal letter dated August 5, 1947, sent by special messenger from FBI Director John Edgar Hoover to Director of Intelligence, War Department General Staff at the Pentagon. Addressed to Colonel L. R. Forney, Chief, Security Group. Subject line references "FRED R. REIBOLD."

**dates:**

details
  • Letter date: August 5, 1947
  • Declassified: October 26, [19??] (year partially illegible)
  • Delivery: By special messenger

**people:**

details
  • John Edgar Hoover (FBI Director, sender)
  • Colonel L. R. Forney (War Department, Chief, Security Group, recipient)
  • Fred R. Reibold (subject of correspondence)

**organizations:**

details
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • War Department
  • General Staff
  • Department of Defense (implied)

**locations:**

details
  • The Pentagon (destination)
  • Washington, D.C.

**observations:**

details
  • Formal inter-agency communication on official letterhead
  • Sent via special courier (not regular mail)
  • References flying disc-related correspondence
  • Involves coordination with military intelligence
  • Document marked for declassification decades after creation

**assessments:**

details
  • High-level FBI-military intelligence coordination on flying disc matter
  • Hoover personally authorized response
  • Official government acknowledgment of flying disc investigation

**references:**

details
  • Enclosed letter from Reibold
  • Newspaper clippings regarding flying discs
  • FBI investigation into flying disc reports

**redactions:**

details
  • Body of letter not fully visible in provided image
  • Specific content of enclosed materials not detailed in visible portion

**quotes:**

details
  • "There are attached hereto copies of a letter received from the above-captioned individual, together with copies of a newspaper clipping enclosure, concerning 'Flying Discs.'"
  • "Mr. Reibold's letter has been acknowledged and he has been advised that copies of his letter have been furnished to you for your consideration."

## Page 011 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** Handwritten witness statement/letter

**classification:** Marked "RECORDED" and "INDEXED" with case number notation

**page_description:** Handwritten letter on lined paper from Federal Bureau of Investigation, Washington D.C. office, addressed to "Gentlemen:" containing detailed witness account of flying disc sighting. Dated July 7, 1947, 10:30 P.M.

**dates:**

details
  • Incident date: July 7, 1947, 10:30 P.M.
  • Witness account written on same date
  • Recording/indexing timestamp visible

**people:**

details
  • Declarant: Not clearly identified in visible portion (witness name indicated as being with mother-in-law)
  • Mother-in-law (co-witness)

**organizations:**

detailsFederal Bureau of Investigation (receiving agency)

**locations:**

details2315 Himebaugh Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska (location of sighting - "in front of our house")

**observations:**

details
  • Witness and mother-in-law observed a "glaming object" (possibly "flaming object")
  • Object described as "dropping in street in front of our house"
  • Object characteristics: golden and hex-form (possibly "six-form")
  • Object described as approximately size of "silver dollar" and "1/4 [inch] passing with extreme heat"
  • World being described and witness noted "we sealed out"
  • Object fell and created impact/explosion
  • In nearby time, a "boy kicked" the object (second part of statement)

**assessments:**

details
  • Witness perceived extreme heat associated with object
  • Physical evidence appeared to have been recovered
  • FBI investigation initiated based on witness report

**references:**

details
  • Heat phenomena associated with object
  • Physical debris collected for analysis
  • Location-specific sighting

**redactions:**

details
  • Witness name appears partially redacted or unclear
  • Some handwriting difficult to decipher

**quotes:**

details
  • "On July 7th, 1947, 10:30 P.M. I stepped striffen, my mother is law and I witnessed a glaming object which dropped in street in front of our house at 2315 Himebaugh ave Omaha, Nebr."
  • "Upon examination, the object was noted and hex form of round circular disc, approximately the size of a silver dollar and 1/4 [unclear], passing with extreme heat. The world being [unclear] and we sealed out."
  • "In the mean time a boy kicked" [continues on next page]

## Page 012 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** Administrative receipt/routing form

**classification:** Not visible

**page_description:** Pink/salmon colored form with handwritten receipt stamp "RECEIVED JUL 16 12:36 PM 07" (July 16, received at 12:36 PM) and "INTERNAL SECURITY" notation with "F.B.I. OFFICE" marking.

**dates:**

details
  • Receipt date: July 16, 1947
  • Receipt time: 12:36 PM
  • This represents a 9-day lag from the incident date (July 7)

**people:** Not specified

**organizations:**

details
  • FBI
  • Internal Security section

**locations:** Not specified

**observations:**

details
  • Document routing through FBI internal security section
  • Significant time gap between incident (July 7) and receipt by FBI Internal Security (July 16)

**assessments:** Administrative tracking document

**references:** Standard FBI routing procedures

**redactions:** N/A

**quotes:** None

## Page 013 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** Handwritten letter (continuation of witness statement)

**classification:** Not visible

**page_description:** Continuation of handwritten witness account on lined paper, detailing the object's behavior and witness observations.

**dates:** Implied July 7, 1947 (continuation from page 011)

**people:**

details
  • Witness (author, unnamed in visible text)
  • Mother-in-law (co-witness)
  • Multiple observers ("set people")

**organizations:** Not specified

**locations:**

details2315 Himebaugh Avenue area (continued from page 011)

**observations:**

details
  • "The object over and it fell into a field"
  • When reporter answered, witness "scooped up the fragments and said he could have them analyzed"
  • "Your attention is directed to attached analyzer" (analysis of fragments requested)
  • Multiple people observed and "can testify to the Evidence heat at which it was turning"
  • Object claimed to be one of the "so called 'flying saucers' or ferry sack phenomena"
  • Witness and others found and recovered physical evidence
  • Object fell into metal-like disc shape that would have "certainly set fire"
  • "We can definitely say it was not tobacco ashes as answered by Dr. Penny"

**assessments:**

details
  • Witness claims multiple observers can verify extreme heat observation
  • Physical evidence collected and analyzed
  • Witness disputes alternative explanations (tobacco ash theory)
  • Direct contradiction with scientific analysis described on page 015

**references:**

details
  • Dr. Penny's analysis (tobacco ash theory)
  • Multiple physical observers
  • Attached analysis of fragments

**redactions:** None apparent in visible portion

**quotes:**

details
  • "The object over and it fell into a field"
  • "When the reporter answered he scooped up the fragments and said he could have them analyzed"
  • "Your attention is directed to attached analyzer"
  • "There were set people who actually saw the object and can testify to the Evidence heat at which it was turning"
  • "We can definitely say it was not tobacco ashes as answered by Dr. Penny"

## Page 014 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** Handwritten letter (conclusion and signature)

**classification:** Not visible

**page_description:** Final page of handwritten witness letter with closing statement, signature, and address information.

**dates:** Implied 1947 (from context)

**people:**

details
  • Fred R. Reibold (author/signatory)
  • Address: 2315 Himebaugh Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska
  • Dr. Penny (mentioned as having made contradictory analysis)

**organizations:** Not specified

**locations:**

details
  • Omaha, Nebraska (residence location)
  • 2315 Himebaugh Avenue

**observations:**

details
  • "was not tobacco ashes as answered by Dr. Penny"
  • References extreme heat properties that would require explanation
  • Claims it burned with "such extreme heat to scorch pavement or end near pavement"
  • "Probably shes could have been a late found July firework or something similar but at any rate we are calling in to your attention as the answer the 'earned' be kept giving pipe ashes so fuel of individual in entirely unnecessary"

**assessments:**

details
  • Witness disputes Dr. Penny's tobacco ash analysis
  • Suggests object had heat-generation properties inconsistent with tobacco residue
  • Believes report warrants official investigation
  • Witness frustrated with dismissive explanations

**references:**

details
  • Dr. Penny's analysis
  • Pavement scorch marks (evidence)
  • Laboratory analysis request

**redactions:** None apparent

**quotes:**

details
  • "was not tobacco ashes as answered by Dr. Penny"
  • "If burned with such extreme heat to scorch pavement or end near pavement where it left Probably shes could have been a late found July firework or something similar but at any rate we are calling in to your attention as the answer the 'earned' be kept giving pipe ashes so fuel of individual in entirely unnecessary"
  • "Yours sincerely, FRED R. REIBOLD"
  • "2315 Himebaugh ave, Omaha, Nebraska"

## Page 015 Extraction

**status:** content_present

**doc_type:** Newspaper article clipping (mounted on document)

**classification:** Not visible

**page_description:** Newspaper article clipping with headline "Flying Saucer Just Someone's Pipe Dream" glued/mounted to page. Bottom notation shows case file reference "62-83894-4" and "ENCLOSURE" marking.

**dates:** Context indicates July 1947 (from case timeline)

**people:**

details
  • Dr. C. L. Kenny (head of chemistry department, Creighton College of Dentistry)
  • Two unnamed chemistry students (conducted analysis)

**organizations:**

details
  • Creighton College of Dentistry (chemistry department)
  • Chemistry laboratory

**locations:**

details2319 Himebaugh Avenue, Omaha (location of object discovery)

**observations:**

details
  • Object "ashes" analyzed by chemistry students
  • Chemical composition identified: sodium, potassium, iron, aluminum, carbonate, sulfate, carbon
  • Same composition as ordinary pipe tobacco ash
  • Object fell "Monday evening" (from context, July 7)

**assessments:**

details
  • Scientific analysis concluded object was burned pipe tobacco debris, not extraterrestrial material
  • "Flying saucer" theory explicitly rejected as "Someone's Pipe Dream"
  • Official scientific authority dismissive of witness testimony

**references:**

details
  • Chemical analysis results
  • Ordinary pipe tobacco composition
  • Standard combustion products

**redactions:** None visible

**quotes:**

details
  • "Flying Saucer Just Someone's Pipe Dream"
  • "The 'flying saucer' that fell near 2319 Himebaugh Avenue Monday evening was nothing but 'ashes from somebody's pipe dream.'"
  • "So says Dr. C. L. Kenny, head of the chemistry department at the Creighton College of Dentistry"
  • "They found sodium, Potassium, iron, aluminum, carbonate, sulphate and unburnt carbon, he said"
  • "'This is the same analysis you would get from ordinary pipe tobacco,' Dr. Kenny said"
page016
statuspartial_content
doc_typecorrespondence
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Handwritten letter on aged paper with redactions (name blotted out at top)

## People

detailsRecipient: "Dear Mr. [REDACTED]"

## Observations

details
  • Writer witnessed "notorious flying saucer" incident
  • Writer also witnessed "flying saucer" on evening of July 4 at approximately 10:39 p.m.
  • Object was "in the air at the same level as two obvious portions of light in the search light beams from the air field"
  • Near Lake St. Clair; writer was sitting on porch at the time
  • "A few trucks could with proper equipment create the same illusion"
  • Describes "two clearly outlined beams" - one partly faded/faded out
  • Third beam faded from ground to saucer

## Redactions

details
  • Name at top blotted out with black ink
  • Multiple sections heavily redacted
  • Name of recipient redacted

## Quotes

"Have also seen a flying saucer - the evening of July 4 - about 10:39p.m. - only it was in the air at the same level as two obvious portions of light in the Search light beams from the air field"

page017
statuspartial_content
doc_typecorrespondence
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation of handwritten letter; heavily redacted with black ink blocks

## Observations

details
  • Reference to "distressed ship" in the Pacific
  • Document redacted extensively; text mentions phenomena "being due entirely to natural phenomena"
  • Date stamp visible: "58-JUL 22 1947"
  • Reference to "FBT" stamped in text

## Redactions

details
  • Large black ink redaction covering approximately 40% of visible text
  • Multiple partial redactions throughout

## Assessments

details
  • Analysis suggests natural explanation ("due entirely to natural phenomena")
  • Attempts to explain sightings through conventional causes

## Notes

Text is substantially obscured; exact meaning unclear due to redaction pattern

page018
statuspartial_content
doc_typeenvelope/cover
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Envelope addressed to J. Edgar Hoover; address label with postal markings

## Recipients

details
  • Mr. J. Edgar Hoover, Director
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • U.S. Dept. of Justice Bldg.
  • Washington, D.C.

## People

detailsJ. Edgar Hoover (FBI Director)

## Postal Markings

details
  • Postmark: "NEW YORK" dated "JUL 11 9:30P.M. 1947"
  • 3-cent postage stamp visible
  • Marking "CENTRAL STATION" visible
  • Routing markings on envelope

## Notes

Standard envelope for correspondence to FBI headquarters during UFO sighting wave of 1947

page019
statuscomplete
doc_typeinquiry letter
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Typewritten inquiry letter dated July 11, 1947, distributed as public outreach

## Dates

detailsJuly 11, 1947

## Organizations

detailsThe Combined and Amalgamated Committee of Sky-Scanners, Disc Decipherers and New-Product Introducers

## Observations

details
  • Public inquiry asking about "mysterious 'Saucers'" sightings
  • Questions about appearance of objects
  • Inquires about recipient beliefs regarding phenomena

## Assessments

details
  • Speculative tone about "startling discs"
  • Suggests objects may be harbingers of "better day"
  • Questions about "new and revolutionary advance"
  • Hopeful framing: "Will it make your life brighter, happier, more useful?"

## Quotes

"Have you seen one of the mysterious 'Saucers'? What did it look like?"

"Do you think these strange, celestial manifestations are harbingers of a better day?"

"We believe one of these startling discs is on its way to you. Then the secret will be out."

## Notes

Document represents public interest and speculation surrounding UFO phenomenon in July 1947; issued by amateur group engaged in sky observation and disc analysis

page020
statuscomplete
doc_typeinquiry letter
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Typewritten copy of inquiry letter (same as page 019) with filing stamps and notations

## Dates

details
  • July 11, 1947
  • Received stamp: "37 JUL 21 1947"

## Organizations

detailsThe Combined and Amalgamated Committee of Sky-Scanners, Disc Decipherers and New-Product Introducers

## Filing Information

details
  • Record number visible: "62-83994-6"
  • Filing stamps indicate FBI intake routing
  • Multiple routing marks and initials present

## Observations

details
  • Public inquiry asking if recipients have seen "mysterious 'Saucers'"
  • Questions about object appearance
  • Speculates about meaning and future implications

## Assessments

details
  • Optimistic/hopeful tone regarding phenomena
  • References potential "revolutionary advance"

## Quotes

"Have you seen one of the mysterious 'Saucers'? What did it look like?"

"We believe one of these startling discs is on its way to you. Then the secret will be out."

## Notes

FBI received and filed this public inquiry as part of 1947 saucer investigation wave; document reflects amateur civilian interest in phenomenon

page021
statusno_content
doc_typecorrespondence/administrative
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Heavily faded typed text with minimal legibility; document appears damaged or faded over time

## Notes

Page content is substantially illegible. Text is too faint to extract with confidence. Appears to be administrative correspondence based on format and stamps visible (routing marks, date stamps from 1947).

page022
statuscomplete
doc_typeletter / criticism
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Handwritten letter from Boston, Massachusetts dated July 14, 1949 with "G.I.R.5" notation

## Dates

details
  • July 14, 1949
  • Location: Boston, Mass.

## People

details
  • Writer (anonymous, signed with initials related to document)
  • Referenced in criticism: people who reported flying saucer sightings
  • Psychiatrists mentioned (who analyzed reports)

## Observations

details
  • Writer criticizes people who make "flying saucer" reports
  • References "Heartless Criticism in some papers"
  • Mentions article in Boston Globe reporting on a writer called "Leiden"
  • People making reports are labeled as "portray the flying 'Saucers'"
  • References criticisms published publicly in articles

## Assessments

details
  • Writer expresses concern that reports are unfairly criticized
  • Suggests skeptics or psychiatrists are "damning" witnesses "publicly"
  • Indicates criticism comes from multiple sources (papers, psychiatrists)
  • Views criticism as discouraging future witnesses

## Quotes

"May I call your kind attention to the headless criticism in some papers of people who re-[REDACTED] the flying 'Saucers,' especially an Article in the 'Boston Globe' [REDACTED] by a writer called Leiden, Also, an [REDACTED] apology in the Boston Post this week."

"This criticism of people who make these reports is very unfair. Everyone from Occulists to psychiatrists damned them, publicly in articles. It is a poor way to thank people for their someday, when some thing will happen when these people they are needed, that probably will both Miss you will write from such a"

## Notes

Document reflects societal debate in 1949 about credibility of UFO witnesses and media treatment of sighting reports

page023
statuscomplete
doc_typeletter continuation
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation of handwritten letter with commentary on media coverage and witness treatment

## Observations

details
  • Continuation of criticism regarding treatment of UFO witnesses
  • Author discusses impact of negative media coverage on future reporting
  • References impact of public "articles" and published criticisms
  • Concerns about discouraging witnesses from coming forward

## Assessments

details
  • Author views media treatment as counterproductive
  • Believes criticism may prevent people from reporting future sightings
  • Suggests responsible approach would be to encourage witnesses rather than criticize them

## Quotes

"[Redacted] apology in the Boston Post this week. This criticism of people who make these reports is very unfair. Everyone from Occulists to psychiatrists damned them, publicly in articles. It is a poor way to thank people for their someday, when some thing will happen when these people they are needed, that probably will both Miss you will make such from such a"

## Notes

Text is partially difficult to read due to handwriting and archival condition. Author appears to be defending UFO witnesses against public skepticism and media criticism.

page024
statuscomplete
doc_typeoffice memorandum
classificationno classification visible

## Dates

details
  • July 7, 1947 (memo date)
  • July 7, 1947 (date of discussion: 10:45 a.m.)

## People

details
  • H. B. Fletcher (FROM)
  • Mr. D. M. Ladd (TO)
  • SAC Johnson (Milwaukee Office)
  • Reverend Joseph Brasky (St. Joseph's Church, Grafton, Wisconsin)
  • Associated Press inquiries
  • United Press inquiries

## Organizations

details
  • Milwaukee Office (FBI)
  • Associated Press
  • United Press
  • Milwaukee Sentinel
  • St. Joseph's Church, Grafton, Wisconsin

## Locations

details
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Washington Post
  • Grafton, Wisconsin
  • Milwaukee Sentinel

## Observations

details
  • Reverend reported "flying disc or flying saucer" to Milwaukee FBI Office
  • AP and UP made inquiry between 1:00-6:00 a.m. on July 7, 1947
  • Press reported priest was intoxicated
  • Object identified as a circular saw in photograph
  • Saw had attached wires and two small tubes (described as ~3 inches long, 1 inch diameter)
  • Believed prankster threw saw into yard, possibly with firecracker attached
  • Priest posed for photograph holding circular saw

## Assessments

details
  • FBI assessed report as non-serious based on press information
  • Recommended no inquiry at present ("in view of the nature of the information in his possession, no inquiry should be conducted at the present")

## Quotes

"a photograph of the priest was in this morning's paper holding a circular saw which apparently covers the body of the priest from arm pit to arm pit. Attached to the saw are several wires and two small tubes described as about three inches long and one inch in diameter."

"The news item in the Milwaukee Sentinel indicates it was believed some prankster had thrown it into the yard, perhaps with a firecracker attached."

## References

details
  • Case file number: appears to contain references to earlier filing
  • Standard Form No. 64 (Office Memorandum form)
page025
statusno_content
doc_typeadministrative
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Page is substantially blank with only routing stamps and archival markings visible at bottom

## Archival Markings

details
  • Date stamp visible at bottom: "HG 25 S 2 [date] D/R 29"
  • Record number: "LH 12 D 1" or similar
  • Multiple filing/routing stamps with dates

## Notes

Page appears to be blank administrative sheet used for document separation or filing purposes within case file

page026
statuspartial_content
doc_typecorrespondence
classificationno classification visible

## Dates

detailsJuly 12, 1947

## Locations

details
  • Yoksum, [location unclear]
  • Texas

## Observations

details
  • Writer reporting sighting of "flying fire car"
  • Object described as "flying fire car-led drums"
  • Witnessed by family from Texas
  • Object allegedly produced "clear light" not far away from location
  • Described as "misplaced light from a crows" (text unclear)
  • Runway observation mentioned
  • Reported to be "flying of" something feared by writer

## Assessments

details
  • Writer expresses fear/concern about sighting
  • Seeks confirmation or information about phenomenon

## References

details
  • Received stamp: "JUL 15 1947"
  • Document routing: "34 JUL 17 1947"

## Notes

Document text is difficult to read due to handwriting quality and archival preservation. Appears to be personal letter reporting sighting observation sent to FBI during 1947 wave of saucer reports.

page027
statusno_content
doc_typeadministrative
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Mostly blank lined paper with minimal visible content

## Archival Markings

details
  • Routing stamp visible at bottom with date notations
  • Filing marks present

## Notes

Page appears to be blank or nearly blank administrative sheet within file. Text is not legible enough for extraction.

page028
statuscomplete
doc_typenarrative letter
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Handwritten narrative on lined paper describing observations at airfield

## Locations

details
  • Texas City (mentioned as location where "they did start")
  • Private part of Noksum Airport (where sightings observed)
  • Airfield with broadcasting stations and alarm registers

## Observations

details
  • Objects described as flying at the "private part of Noksum Airport"
  • "Dazed Broadcasting States are such one"
  • Observers at airfield using lights ("need less to own eyes")
  • Lights visible "around the side" described as "part and front and from the light is bring"
  • Electric and snake phenomena mentioned as "sick"
  • Reference to "Noguan and Broad casting towers with light 7-or rolling towers"
  • Objects described with reference to electric/mechanical apparatus
  • Landing mentioned near airfield structures

## Assessments

details
  • Observer notes technological sophistication of phenomena
  • References alarm registers and broadcast stations
  • Suggests interaction with electrical systems
  • Multiple observers mentioned at location

## Notes

Handwriting is challenging to read in places; document appears to be witness account of close observation at specific airfield location with detailed technical observations about lighting and electrical phenomena

page029
statuscomplete
doc_typenarrative letter continuation
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation of handwritten narrative describing airfield observations and witnesses

## Observations

details
  • Description of airfield access and personnel
  • Observer details about witness group at location
  • Reference to "Arbi-shop body Luccy leading in new standard c and is talking with us"
  • Multiple individuals described as present and involved in observations
  • Broadcasting stations and alarm registers mentioned
  • References to "old arbershop residence and with the Caro-dale property"
  • Broadcast/alarm systems described

## Assessments

details
  • Multiple witnesses involved in observation
  • Technical personnel present (operators of broadcast and alarm systems)
  • Suggests official or semi-official recording of phenomenon

## Notes

Text continues narrative of witness account at specific facility with multiple observers and technical recording apparatus

page030
statuscomplete
doc_typenarrative letter continuation
classificationno classification visible

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Final page of handwritten narrative describing airship/object characteristics

## Observations

details
  • "Airship" described with specific characteristics
  • "Airship is bag man and Umwell, and working nothing. all work is day by the Cathedral Board."
  • Reference to German personnel ("two Germanold Dres")
  • Object described as "by two germanold dres, and the men are now sick, and blind from the electric and the talk with us"
  • Discusses physical effects on witnesses: sickness and blindness attributed to "electric"
  • Reference to "Cathedral Board" involvement

## Assessments

details
  • Physical/medical effects claimed: sickness and blindness
  • Suggests electromagnetic radiation exposure
  • Describes non-functional state ("working nothing")
  • Implies involvement of official or institutional authority ("Cathedral Board")

## Notes

This appears to be the conclusion of a detailed witness account describing a landed airship with multiple witnesses suffering medical effects. The text is difficult in places but indicates claims of electromagnetic exposure and documented physical symptoms. Document represents civilian witness narrative from 1947 saucer wave.

page031
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - handwritten letter

## Document Type

Personal correspondence

## Content

Handwritten letter discussing personal matters. References to family members named Morkov, mentions of care arrangements, cathedral board notes, and discussions about prayer.

## People

details
  • Morkov (subject of discussion, described as "bad man")
  • Mrs. Benyx
  • Mr. Joe Benyx
  • Mrs. Anna Benyx

## Locations

detailsTexas City (mentioned in closing)

## References

detailsCathedral Board (mentioned)

## Notes

details
  • Heavily handwritten, cursive
  • Contains no visible redactions
  • No classifications or official markings visible
page032
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - handwritten letter continuation

## Document Type

Personal correspondence

## Content

Continuation of handwritten letter. References to Cathedral Board meetings, mentions German concerns, discussion of family matters.

## People

details
  • Mrs. Anna Benyx
  • Mr. Joe Benyx

## Observations

details
  • Mentions Cathedral Board and German matters
  • References to prayer and religious observations
  • Personal family correspondence

## Notes

details
  • Handwritten in cursive
  • No visible official markings
  • No redactions visible
page033
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

no_content

## Notes

Blank manila envelope cover with file reference number 62-83894-9 visible in handwriting

page034
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - newspaper clipping

## Document Type

Newspaper article - printed news

## Page Description

Newspaper page from Yoakum Herald-Times, Section 2, page 1. Multiple columns discussing flying discs, fire balls, and related phenomena.

## Dates

details
  • July 1947 (approximate date based on content)
  • References to "yesterday" sightings

## Locations

details
  • Yoakum, Texas
  • Palestine, Texas
  • Brazos Creek community
  • Cuero, Texas
  • Darlington, SC (referenced in text)
  • Texas area

## Observations

details
  • Multiple flying disc sightings reported in Texas
  • "Fire balls" described by observers
  • Sheriff Paul Stanford of Anderson County described orange basketballs of fire
  • Reports from Melissa, Collin County
  • Cuero resident Mrs. F. W. Haak reported disc sighting
  • Multiple witnesses across region reported phenomena
  • Description of objects moving in circles, changing formations
  • Residents reported seeing 12 balls in straight line initially, then circular formation

## People

details
  • Sheriff Paul Stanford
  • Rud Everett (druggist)
  • Horace Valentine
  • Mrs. Horace Valentine
  • Lee Chaver
  • Mrs. Lorelh Shaders
  • Mrs. Marian Reed (farm wife)
  • Mrs. Alaine Killian
  • Mrs. Kay Craft
  • Charles Calhoun (farmer)
  • W. J. Calhoun (farmer, Charles' father)
  • Mrs. F. W. Haak (Cuero resident)
  • Mr. Haak

## Assessments

details
  • Sheriff Stanley discounted suggestions objects originated from spotlight
  • Objects appeared to "play" with each other
  • Theory advanced that discs were reflections from airplanes
  • Flying disc "mystery" has multiple explanations offered

## References

details
  • Flying saucers (general phenomenon discussion)
  • Atomic information disclosure laws
  • War Department security concerns

## Redactions

None visible

## Quotes

details
  • "orange basketballs of fire" (Sheriff Stanford description)
  • "nearly scared me to death" (witness description)
page035
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - newspaper pages (2 pages combined)

## Document Type

Newspaper articles - printed news

## Page Description

Yoakum Herald-Times pages discussing Chevrolet truck award competition and editorial commentary on Russian/communist themes and flying discs. Right side contains article from The Alamo Register.

## Organizations

details
  • Chevrolet Motor Division
  • Pioneers
  • Lions Club (Yoakum)
  • Soil Conservation Service

## Locations

details
  • Yoakum, Texas
  • Montague County

## Dates

detailsOctober 4, 1946 (The Alamo Register masthead)

## Observations

details
  • Discussion of "flying disks" phenomenon
  • Editorial commentary questioning US defense preparedness
  • References to mysterious disc sightings
  • Military concerns about atomic secrets

## People

details
  • Lee Pargmann (farmer award recipient context)
  • Norman Thomas (debate reference)

## Assessments

details
  • Editorial commentary: "It cannot be said anymore that the stories of the 'flying disks' is mere fiction"
  • One disk found near Houston with military secret warning
  • Army Air Force at Spokane, Washington notified
  • Discussion of advanced bomb technology
  • Concerns about Russia's military capabilities

## References

details
  • Red Russia (Cold War context)
  • Atomic/nuclear weapons discussion
  • Communist ideology critique
  • John Fisher ("Why They Behaved Like Russians")
  • Robert M. Hutchins (University of Chicago reference)

## Quotes

details
  • "It cannot be said anymore that the stories of the 'flying disks' is mere fiction"
  • References to destruction capabilities of atomic weapons

## Redactions

None visible

page036
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - newspaper/magazine header

## Document Type

Newspaper/magazine masthead and header

## Page Description

The Alamo Register publication header with NCWC connection information. Includes note about audit bureau of circulations and news service connections.

## Organizations

details
  • NCWC (National Catholic Welfare Conference) - Washington News Headquarters
  • International News Service
  • Religious News Service
  • Inter-Catholic Press Agency
  • Lumen Service of China
  • Fides Service
  • Religious News Photos
  • International Illustrated News
  • NCWC Picture Service
  • Audit Bureau of Circulations

## Classification

Name registered in U.S. Patent Office

## Notes

details
  • Section Two identified at bottom
  • Indicates wide news distribution network
page037
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - newspaper article with cartoon/illustration

## Document Type

Newspaper article with editorial cartoon

## Page Description

Religious publication article featuring Pope Pius XII speech at Castelgandolfo with accompanying editorial cartoon illustration showing armed figure with gun and "WORLD UNREST" label.

## People

details
  • Pope Pius XII (Pius XII)
  • Most Rev. Emmanuel Suarez, O.P. (Dominican)

## Organizations

details
  • Catholic Church
  • Jesuits
  • Dominican order

## Locations

detailsCastelgandolfo (Papal summer home)

## Observations

details
  • Speech discussing moral decay and lack of religious observance
  • References to cynicism toward holy things
  • Concerns about "weak men"
  • Discussion of Jesuit oath and obedience

## Quotes

details
  • "very rudiments of religion itself"
  • "there are cynics who would deride holy things and weak men who would permit these offenses to pass"
  • References to "a spirit prepared and prompt to obey in all things the true Spouse of Christ... our holy Mother Church"

## Assessments

details
  • "there are great rays of hope and fields white with harvest for those who labor to bring Christ to the world"
  • Despite world turmoil, Pope expresses optimism

## Illustration

detailsEditorial cartoon showing armed/militaristic figure with "WORLD UNREST" label, reflecting Cold War anxieties
page038
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - FBI official memo

## Document Type

FBI official communication

## Classification

Internal Bureau of Investigation document (U.S. Department of Justice)

## Dates

details
  • JUL 7 1947 (date stamp)
  • 7/14/47 (handwritten)

## People

detailsWoodson C. Cope (sender - Cliffside Hall)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation)
  • U.S. Department of Justice
  • War Department
  • Inventors Council

## Locations

detailsSan Marcox, Texas

## Observations

details
  • Sender inquires about multi-apring catapult invention filed in 1945
  • Claims possible leakage of information to War Department
  • Suggests device/variation could catapult a disc in silence for several miles
  • References to potential security breach

## Assessments

details
  • Sender believes invention may have connection to disc phenomena
  • Concerns about information leakage from 1945 submission

## References

details
  • Inventors Council (patent/invention filing)
  • Multi-apring catapult device (military application)

## Redactions

detailsPartial stamp: "RECORDED" with file number 62-83894-10

## Administrative Notes

details
  • Sent as "WESTERN UNION" telegram
  • "2 EXTRA COLLECT"
  • Time: 714P (7:14 PM)
page039
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - FBI document (back side/continuation)

## Document Type

FBI official document back page

## Dates

detailsReceived stamps visible with various dates

## Administrative Notes

details
  • Multiple "RECEIVED" stamps showing FBI routing
  • "INTERNAL SECURITY" marking visible
  • "F.B.I." and "DEPT OF JUSTICE" stamps

## Redactions

details
  • Extensive redaction stamps on document showing circulation through FBI channels
  • Faint text visible but mostly obscured by stamps and processing marks

## File References

detailsMultiple indexing and recording numbers visible
page040
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - FBI memorandum

## Document Type

Office Memorandum - United States Government

## Classification

Unmarked official memo

## Dates

detailsDATE: 7-10-47

## People

details
  • TO: D. M. Ladd
  • FROM: J. P. Coyne

## Subject

details
  • WOODSON C. COPE - Informant
  • Flying disc (noted in handwriting on document)

## Content Summary

Memo indicates Western Union telegram received from Woodson C. Cope containing information about a "disc." Telegram has been acknowledged.

## Action

Recommendation that telegram be turned over to Liaison Section to make information available to War Department.

## Administrative Notes

details
  • Standard FBI Form 64
  • Multiple routing stamps for internal circulation
  • File reference: G.I.R-S and other codes
  • Dated: 63 JUL 23 1947 (processing date)
  • EX-74 classification marker

## Organizations

details
  • FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation)
  • War Department
  • Liaison Section

## References

detailsWestern Union telegram (attachment)
page041
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - FBI routing/receipt page

## Document Type

FBI official received stamps page

## Dates

details
  • JUL 23 I 39 PM (received stamp)
  • Additional date stamps: JUL 11 3:24 PM and JUL 11 3:55 PM

## Organizations

details
  • F.B.I.
  • Department of Justice
  • Internal Security Division

## Administrative Notes

details
  • Multiple FBI receipt stamps showing document routing
  • "RECEIVED-LADD" notation
  • "INTERNAL SECURITY" marking
  • Bureau of Investigation routing indicated

## References

detailsFile tracking and internal circulation
page042
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - Western Union telegram

## Document Type

Western Union telegraph

## Dates

details
  • 1947 JUL 6 PM 6 50 (date/time sent)
  • JUL 7 1947 (received/processing date)

## People

details
  • J. U. WATTS JR. (sender)
  • A. N. WILLIAMS (Western Union President noted on header)

## Organizations

details
  • Western Union
  • U.S. Department of Justice

## Locations

detailsDarlington, SC (Darlington, South Carolina)

## Observations

details
  • "ABOUT 12 SO-CALL FLYING DISCS PASSED OVER DARLINGTON SC APPROXIMATELY 5:30 PM TODAY"
  • Sender asks "ADVISE IF WISH DETAILS="

## Administrative Notes

details
  • Address: Q-CNA392 PD=DARLINGTON SOCAR 6 630P
  • Destination: US DEPT OF JUSTICE - WASHDC
  • Reference: GUARD ADV HAVE MSG DLVD SA 720F
  • File marks: Multiple routing stamps
  • "37 JUL 16 1947" processing date
  • File reference: 62-83894-11 and EX-56

## References

details
  • Flying disc sighting report
  • Addressed directly to Department of Justice Washington
page043
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

no_content

## Notes

Page shows only routing marks and file stamps. Appears to be a blank routing page or envelope divider with light markings indicating circulation through FBI system.

page044
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - FBI memorandum

## Document Type

Office Memorandum - United States Government

## Classification

Unmarked official memo

## Dates

detailsDATE: 7-10-47

## People

details
  • TO: D. M. Ladd
  • FROM: J. P. Coyne

## Subject

details
  • J. U. WATTS, JR. - Informant
  • Flying disc (marked in handwriting)

## Content Summary

Memo attached to Western Union telegram received from J. U. Watts Jr. containing information about a "disc." Telegram has been acknowledged.

## Action

Recommendation that telegram be turned over to Liaison Section to make information contained therein available to War Department.

## Organizations

details
  • FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation)
  • War Department
  • Liaison Section

## Administrative Notes

details
  • Form: STANDARD FORM NO. 64
  • Multiple internal routing stamps
  • File reference: EX-56
  • Dated: 50 JUL 24 1947 (processing date)
  • Additional routing: EX-56 designation
  • WVC:mm notation at bottom

## Attachments

detailsWestern Union telegram (referenced and attached)
page045
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

## Status

Content present - FBI receipt stamps

## Document Type

FBI official routing/receipt page

## Dates

details
  • JUL 23 I 39 PM (first received stamp)
  • JUL 11 3:23 PM (second timestamp visible)
  • JUL 11 3:55 PM (third timestamp visible)

## Organizations

details
  • F.B.I.
  • Department of Justice
  • Internal Security Division

## Administrative Notes

details
  • Multiple "RECEIVED" stamps showing FBI internal routing
  • "RECEIVED-LADD" notation indicating D.M. Ladd as recipient
  • "INTERNAL SECURITY" classification marking
  • Bureau of Investigation official processing

## References

details
  • Standard internal FBI circulation pattern
  • Document tracking and file management
page046
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 046 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** newspaper_clipping

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Newspaper article titled "Saucer Stories: Disk Found Is Priest Hears a 'Bang,' Discovers a Circular Blade With Teeth; Other Disks 'Seen'" with photo of Father Joseph Brasky holding the circular saw blade.

**Dates:**

details
  • July 1947 (flying saucer reports period)
  • Early Sunday morning (Father Brasky found object)

**People:**

details
  • Father Joseph Brasky, pastor of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Grafton, Wisconsin
  • Mrs. Anthony Hoffman, 3410 W. Layton Ave.
  • Glenn Rowden of Detroit
  • William Humphrey, 3148 S. 20th St. (and wife)
  • Erwin Rottman, 1328 N. 19th St.
  • Mrs. Walter Johnson, Spokane, Washington
  • Mrs. Alva Sievert and Mr. Howard Roth, Janesville

**Organizations:**

details
  • St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Grafton, Wisconsin
  • Billy Mitchell Field

**Locations:**

details
  • Grafton, Wisconsin
  • Milwaukee and Wisconsin areas
  • Janesville
  • Billy Mitchell Field
  • Pulaski High School

**Observations:**

details
  • Father Brasky found circular steel plate (19 inches diameter, 1/8 inch thick) with saw teeth on church lawn about 5 a.m. Sunday
  • Object had a 1 3/8 inch hole in center with wires running through
  • Small condenser-like objects (3 inches long) wrapped in black sticky tape attached to wire ends
  • Stamped "Approved, Dunlap"
  • Disk was hot, greasy, dirty
  • Father Brasky heard a "bang" like a firecracker, found glass ball knocked off lightning rod
  • Glenn Rowden saw ~50 inch diameter "saucer" over Billy Mitchell Field at 10:05 p.m., visible 90 seconds
  • William Humphrey reported slightly illuminated disk appeared to fall near Pulaski High School
  • Erwin Rottman saw three objects flying northwest direction at 6 p.m., changed colors orange to gold to silver
  • Alva Sievert, Howard Roth and wives saw flying disk 11:35 p.m. Saturday near Janesville, several thousand feet up, 10 miles away, vaguely moon-like with regular counter-clockwise elongated orbit, moved faster than airplane, yellow face, silvery when rotated, 10 minutes viewing, had noticeable tail, fluttered and faded

**Assessments:**

details
  • Father Brasky declined to call it definite "flying saucer," called it "what is it?"
  • Priest knew sawmills in area, would not claim object was flying saucer
  • Growing skepticism about flying saucer reports

**References:**

detailsPublication: Milwaukee Sentinel (date marking shows "60 OCT 1 1947 223")

**Redactions:** none visible

**Quotes:**

details
  • Father Brasky: "I usually get up about 5 a.m. on Sundays. I was at the front door of my house about to take my dog out for a walk, when I heard a 'bang!' like a big firecracker."
  • Father Brasky on his collection: "I can't be touched with a 10 foot pole"
page047
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 047 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** newspaper_clipping

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Continuation of saucer reports with two articles: "Saucer Tales Buzz in State" continuation and "Laws of Eyesight Clarify Reports of Flying Saucers" by Howard W. Blakeslee.

**Dates:**

details
  • July 1947 (general saucer reports)
  • June and August seasonal reference for mirages

**People:**

details
  • Mrs. L.A. Davis, Oshkosh
  • Eugene Le Plant, Green Bay (and 12-year-old son Duane)
  • Howard W. Blakeslee (AP Science Editor)
  • Dr. Aurel Aczel (Hungarian newspaper editor)

**Organizations:**

details
  • Associated Press
  • Case Institute of Technology, Cleveland

**Locations:**

details
  • Janesville
  • Oshkosh, Wisconsin
  • Green Bay, Wisconsin
  • Long Island Sound
  • Egyptian desert
  • Buszta (Hungarian plain)

**Observations:**

details
  • Dick Thompson, Janesville, saw flying disks 12:15 a.m. Sunday
  • Mrs. L.A. Davis and husband saw disk "fizzing over the city" at 6:15 p.m. Sunday from six miles west of Oshkosh, first looked like airplane then loomed larger until "appeared as big as the sun," appeared round and silvery, disappeared when they got out of car
  • Eugene Le Plant and son Duane saw rapidly moving silver ball/disk at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, western edge of Green Bay, silhouetted against dark cloud to north, watched 3-4 minutes while moving northwest, "definitely was not an airplane"
  • Blakeslee explains round appearance: objects at distance limit appear round; reflected light creates round shape; sunlight reflections explain reported sizes
  • Blakeslee mentions seeing flying saucers over Long Island Sound (this year and previous years), light reflected from airplane bodies, soon identified themselves by changing course

**Assessments:**

details
  • All saucer descriptions as round and flat fit optical tricks of eyesight
  • Objects at distance would be 20 feet diameter minimum to be clearly visible at 10,000 feet
  • Dr. Aczel suggests mirages, possibly circularly distorted reflections of real airplanes
  • Atmospheric conditions in July and August especially adaptable to mirages

**References:**

details
  • "Laws of Eyesight Clarify Reports of Flying Saucers" article
  • Hungarian language newspaper (Dr. Aczel)

**Redactions:** none visible

**Quotes:**

details
  • Blakeslee: "At any distance close to the limit of how far a person can see, all objects appear round or nearly so"
  • Dr. Aczel: "Years ago I have seen similar things on the Egyptian desert and on the Buszta (Hungarian plain)"
page048
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 048 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** photograph

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Black and white photograph showing Father Joseph Brasky holding the circular saw blade discovered at his church. Two separate images visible on page.

**Dates:** July 1947

**People:**

detailsFather Joseph Brasky (shown in photograph holding object)

**Organizations:**

detailsSt. Joseph's Catholic Church, Grafton, Wisconsin

**Observations:**

details
  • Photograph shows priest profile view holding circular saw blade with teeth clearly visible
  • Object appears to be approximately 19 inches in diameter
  • Saw teeth pattern visible around entire perimeter
  • Object held at chest/torso level for display

**Redactions:** none

**Notes:** Image appears in newspaper article context as evidence of "saucer" finding that turned out to be mundane object (saw blade with attached wires and condensers).

page049
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 049 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** photograph and caption

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Composite photograph showing two images: upper image of someone examining saw blade, lower image of four women (apparently Mrs. Walter Johnson and children from Spokane area).

**Dates:** July 1947

**People:**

details
  • Mrs. Walter Johnson, Spokane, Washington (referenced)
  • Children of Mrs. Johnson (shown in lower photograph)

**Locations:**

details
  • Spokane, Washington
  • Idaho mountainside

**Observations (from caption):**

details
  • Mrs. Walter Johnson and children reported seeing saucers land on mountainside in Idaho and disappear
  • Children posed for photograph to show how they saw the saucers
  • Father Joseph Brasky of St. Joseph's Catholic Church at Grafton, Wisconsin reported disk that struck his church
  • Object turned out to be prank: Dunlop circular saw blade
  • Something knocked glass ball off church lightning rods
  • Milwaukee residents reported seeing saucers traveling past Sunday night

**Assessments:**

details
  • Classified as "prank made projectile" with saw blade
  • Not a genuine anomalous phenomenon

**References:**

detailsAP Wirephotos and Journal Staff

**Redactions:** none visible

**Quotes:** none in caption

page050
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 050 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** newspaper_clipping

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Article titled "Seen in 36 States; Jet Fighters Alerted" with military and scientific response to flying saucer reports.

**Dates:**

details
  • June 25, 1947 (first sighting reports)
  • July 4, 1947 (Independence Day sightings, 200 persons in Idaho)
  • July 6, 1947 (search operations)
  • July through current reporting

**People:**

details
  • Kenneth Arnold, Boise, Idaho businessman pilot (saw 9 discs in formation)
  • David Lilienthal, chairman of Atomic Energy Commission
  • Gen. Carl Spaatz, commander of Army Air Forces (on fishing trip)
  • Louis E. Starr, national commander-in-chief of Veterans of Foreign Wars
  • Capt. Tom Brown, Air Forces Public Relations staff, Washington
  • Nova Hart, St. Louis mechanic (trained in aircraft identification)
  • Unidentified California Institute of Technology scientist (quoted about "transmutation of atomic energy")

**Organizations:**

details
  • Army Air Forces
  • Atomic Energy Commission
  • Army and Navy
  • California Institute of Technology
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars
  • Air Forces Public Relations

**Locations:**

details
  • Pacific Coast states
  • Cascade Mountains, Washington
  • Portland, Oregon
  • Pattonville
  • Billy Mitchell Field
  • Van Nuys, California
  • Muroc Army Air Field, California
  • New Mexico
  • Missouri
  • California
  • Idaho (multiple cities)
  • Oregon
  • Washington
  • 36 states total (most sightings July 4)
  • East of Mississippi River (July 4 eastward expansion)
  • 33 states by date of article

**Observations:**

details
  • First reports June 25, generally with scorn
  • Kenneth Arnold saw 9 discs in formation at 1,200 mph over Cascade Mountains
  • Arnold's account taken lightly, various explanations offered: "reflections," "persistent vision," "snow blindness"
  • July 4 saw 200 persons in one group and 60 in another see objects in Idaho
  • Objects reported round or oval
  • Estimated speeds 300-1,200 mph
  • Flying with undulating motion at heights of 10,000 feet and less
  • Some described as glowing or luminous
  • Nova Hart description: circular, ribbed framework, silver gray, motor with propeller attached in center, kept turning like airplane doing slow roll at 300 feet
  • Newspaper story quoted unidentified Caltech scientist mentioning atomic experiments
  • Institute quickly denied the report
  • Reports agreed objects were round or oval
  • Most sightings July 4

**Assessments:**

details
  • David Lilienthal stated AEC had nothing to do with atomic experiments
  • Army and Navy officials entered "positive disclaimers"
  • Caltech denied atomic transmutation connection
  • Capt. Tom Brown acknowledged "there's something to this" but cautious
  • Air Forces had been checking for 10 days

**References:**

detailsMilwaukee Sentinel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

**Redactions:** none visible

**Quotes:**

details
  • Gen. Spaatz: "I've been out of touch with things for four or five days"
  • Capt. Tom Brown: "We're not dismissing the possibility that there's something to this"
  • Nova Hart description implied propeller and motor visible
page051
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 051 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** newspaper_clipping

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Article titled "Planes Chasing Disks Find Only Empty Sky; Jokesters Add Some Comedy to Air Mystery; East St. Louis Objects Prove to Be Washers; Chicago Woman Spots One With Legs"

**Dates:**

details
  • July 1947 (article date context)
  • Sunday (army search operations)
  • Daylight hours (crop dusting reference)

**People:**

details
  • Gregory Zimmer, Sioux Falls, S.D. (reported disk sighting)
  • J.T. Hartley, locomotive engineer, East St. Louis, Illinois
  • Mrs. W.C. Smith, Lodi, California
  • Erving Newcomb, Pacific Gas & Electric Co.
  • J.U. Watts Jr., Darlington, South Carolina attorney
  • Chicago woman (unidentified)
  • George Kuger, Denver
  • Francis Howell, Tempe, Arizona
  • Mrs. Walter Johnson, Spokane, Washington
  • Mrs. Kenneth Wohley, Rochester, New York (and husband)
  • Residents of Palisades Park and Bergenfield, New Jersey
  • Dr. J.S. Nassau, director Warner & Swasey Observatory, Case Institute of Technology
  • Capt. Tom Brown, Army Air Force spokesman, Washington

**Organizations:**

details
  • Army Air Forces
  • National Guard
  • Pacific Gas & Electric Co.
  • Case Institute of Technology
  • Warner & Swasey Observatory

**Locations:**

details
  • Cascade Mountains
  • Sioux Falls, South Dakota
  • East St. Louis, Illinois
  • Lodi, California
  • Lewiston, Idaho
  • Birmingham
  • Oshkosh
  • Green Bay
  • Denver
  • Tempe, Arizona
  • Phoenix, Arizona
  • Spokane, Washington
  • St. Maries, Idaho
  • New York State
  • Rochester, New York
  • Palisades Park, New Jersey
  • Bergenfield, New Jersey

**Observations:**

details
  • Army planes with telescopic cameras searched Pacific Northwest Sunday without finding disks
  • National Guard plane at Sioux Falls investigated silvery disk with short tail reported by Gregory Zimmer, found nothing but empty sky
  • Army "camera patrol" over Cascade Mountains included 8 P-51 pursuit ships and 3 A-26 bombers
  • Radio announcement that objects were flying over Lewiston, Idaho sent hundreds into yards to look
  • Weatherman Louis Krezak said objects were moving eastward with prevailing wind and probably were "seed seeds"
  • Three air transport pilots agreed with seed explanation
  • Birmingham radio station deluged with 400+ calls about fluorescent balls circling city outlined against mountains
  • Carnival at Alabaster, Alabama was playing searchlights on cloud wisps (false alarm)
  • Lodi, California: spectacular glow in sky and roar before electrical power went off
  • Mrs. W.C. Smith heard noise "like four motored bomber" before lights went out at dawn
  • Erving Newcomb suggested low flying crop dusting plane struck power line, no planes reported damaged
  • Darlington attorney J.U. Watts Jr. claimed he saw army pursuit plane chasing V-formation of saucers at 250 mph, 3,000 feet high (no pilot reported such chase)
  • Chicago woman reported seeing flying saucer with legs, feared it would hit her
  • George Kuger, Denver saw flying disk with American flag on it
  • Francis Howell, Tempe saw saucer 2 feet diameter disappear behind trees, rushed to inspect, disk took off at "high rate of speed" toward Phoenix, 9 miles away
  • Mrs. Walter Johnson, Spokane returning from vacation near St. Maries, Idaho, reported with several others seeing speeding shiny objects "as big as four or five room house" disappear into forest-covered mountains
  • Mrs. Kenneth Wohley, Rochester, N.Y., and husband saw "about the size of an ordinary saucer" flying above backyard at 8:30 p.m. Sunday
  • New Jersey residents said they "thought" they saw flying disks over Palisades Park and Bergenfield Sunday night
  • East St. Louis "disks": J.T. Hartley and railroad workers found pressed white paper disks, 11 inches diameter with 2-inch hole in center, looked like locomotive packing washers

**Assessments:**

details
  • Growing belief that concentrated aerial search would show saucers to be optical illusions or work of practical jokesters magnified by aroused imaginations
  • Dr. J.S. Nassau, Case Institute, said he was inclined to "think the reports are fancies"
  • Objects at 10,000 feet would need to be 20 feet diameter, would require large mass of metal, would be more conspicuous at night, would be seen by far greater number of persons (scientific skepticism)
  • Capt. Tom Brown: "We're not dismissing the possibility that there's something to it, and we're not dismissing the possibility that it's all a hoax"

**References:**

details
  • Newport News airport notice: required "Two thousand feet vertical and horizontal clearance" from aircraft and flying saucers
  • Milwaukee Journal/Sentinel

**Redactions:** none visible

**Quotes:**

detailsNewport News airport bulletin: "Two thousand feet vertical and horizontal clearance required between aircraft operating from this field and any flying saucers"
page052
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 052 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** newspaper_clipping

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Article titled "U.S. Planes Hunting Discs; Russ Tells of 'Atom Saucers'" with FBI probe of alleged Soviet ship officer claim.

**Dates:**

details
  • July 6, 1947 (Los Angeles investigation date)
  • 10 years ago (Russian chemist unpublished papers reference)

**People:**

details
  • Anonymous letter writer (Los Angeles area)
  • Unidentified Russian officer aboard Russian tanker, recently in Los Angeles harbor
  • Top flight atomic scientist (consulted by Examiner)
  • Unidentified Russian chemist (papers from ~10 years prior, 1937 timeframe)

**Organizations:**

details
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • Los Angeles Examiner
  • Russian military/scientific establishment

**Locations:**

details
  • Los Angeles, California
  • Los Angeles harbor
  • Wilmington (where letter writer met Russian officer)
  • Arctic region
  • Lake Baka! (or Baykal)
  • Tundra

**Observations (from Russian officer account relayed via letter):**

details
  • Russian planes only 18 inches thick, kidney-shaped outline, no propellers
  • Pilot lies on stomach, artificially cooled against heat developed by air friction
  • Outer surface highly polished
  • Both upper and lower surfaces convex like giant lens
  • Lifting force based on entirely different principle found about 10 years ago in unpublished papers of Russian chemist
  • "Energy is required only for climbing, but no energy is needed for support when the airplane goes along the earth's gravitational contour lines"
  • Russian officer described experiments with controlled radioactive clouds in Arctic
  • Birds, animals, and even worms killed in radioactive cloud experiments
  • Cloud from experiment blew north into tundra during violent storm, destroyed all life in its path before dispersing
  • Cloud can be controlled from land, plane, or robot-piloted "leader"
  • Control based on electro-magnetic waves
  • Cloud has two components: the carrier and the killer
  • Officer had received 18 polar bear pelts "for very dangerous work"
  • Officer assigned to go over route of radioactive cloud near Lake Baka! to pick up dead animals
  • Small ships loaded with various animals and cloud directed over them
  • Officer allegedly wanted to sell 18 polar bear pelts

**Assessments:**

details
  • Atomic scientist consulted said material was "not all nonsense"
  • Scientist suggested matter be turned over to FBI
  • FBI investigation conducted of letter

**References:**

details
  • Letter to Los Angeles Examiner
  • Allegedly from Russian officer in Wilmington

**Redactions:** none visible

**Quotes:**

details
  • Officer account: "They loaded a few small ships with all kinds of animals and directed the cloud over them"
  • Officer account: "During this experiment, a violent storm blew the cloud far north into the tundra, but before it dissipated it destroyed all life on its way"
  • "The cloud may be controlled from land, from a plane or from a robot-piloted 'leader.' As I understand it, the control is based on electro-magnetic waves and the cloud has two components: The carrier and the killer."
page053
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 053 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** newspaper_clipping

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Article titled "Quirks of Eyesight May Explain Disc Mystery" by Howard Blakeslee, AP Science Editor.

**Dates:**

detailsJuly 6, 1947 (article date)

**People:**

details
  • Howard Blakeslee (AP Science Editor)
  • Yeoman Frank Ryman, north of Seattle, Washington (photographer)

**Organizations:**

detailsAssociated Press

**Locations:**

details
  • Long Island Sound
  • Seattle, Washington

**Observations:**

details
  • Objects at distance limit of sight appear round or nearly so regardless of actual shape
  • Silhouetted against bright sky, object more likely to reveal true shape
  • Objects seen by reflected light almost certain to be round
  • Sunlight reflections explain reported sizes
  • Saucers described as round and flat fit tricks of eyesight
  • Trickiness varies with weather and lighting differences
  • Blakeslee saw flying saucers over Long Island Sound multiple years
  • One oval object photographed by Yeoman Frank Ryman north of Seattle came closer and turned into an airplane
  • Planes at great distances tend to look round when light reflected from sides
  • Many descriptions of movements fit common airplane maneuvers, singly or in groups
  • Some maneuvers resembling birds flying at considerable distance
  • Bird illusion not very common
  • Objects out of sight and back into sight resemble distant airplanes
  • No explanation for reported speeds of 1,000+ mph
  • Meteors move faster but appear mostly in nighttime
  • Not enough daylight meteors for explanation
  • Ice crystals forming little round clouds suggested but fail to fit most cases (altitude too high)
  • Science and atomic studies give no clue to flying saucers unless objects are aircraft

**Assessments:**

details
  • At distance limit, 20-foot diameter minimum for clear visibility at 10,000 feet
  • Speed mystery unexplained by current scientific understanding
  • Ice crystal hypothesis fails
  • Force of suggestion may explain some saucers (person tells self "Oh gee, I see it too")

**References:**

details
  • AP article with scientific analysis
  • Photograph by Yeoman Frank Ryman

**Redactions:** none visible

**Quotes:**

details
  • Blakeslee: "At any distance which is close to the limit of how far a person can see, all objects appear round or nearly so"
  • Blakeslee: "If the thing is seen by reflected light, as in most cases reported, it is almost certain to be round"
  • One scientist: "at least a lot of saucers are explained by the force of suggestion which causes a person to say to himself: 'Oh gee, I see it too'"
page054
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 054 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** newspaper_clipping

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Article titled "'Saucers' Fly Here; Grafton Disc Joke" documenting Wisconsin saucer reports and identification of Grafton object.

**Dates:**

details
  • Saturday night (Janesville reports)
  • Sunday (multiple reports)
  • Early Sunday morning (Father Brasky discovery)
  • July 6, 1947 (recording date on document)

**People:**

details
  • Father Joseph Brasky, pastor of St. Joseph's Church, Grafton
  • Glenn Rowden, Detroit
  • William Humphrey, 3148 S. 20th St.
  • Mrs. Humphrey
  • Erwin Rottman, 1328 N. 19th St.
  • Mr. and Mrs. Alva Sievert, Janesville
  • Mr. and Mrs. Howard Roth, Janesville
  • J.W. Rowden, Detroit (passenger)
  • Frank Phifer, Maryland Hotel
  • John Bosch, 4377 S. Adams St., Milwaukee (machinist)

**Organizations:**

details
  • St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Grafton, Wisconsin
  • Billy Mitchell Field
  • Heil Co. plant
  • Northwest Airlines Inc.
  • Maryland Hotel
  • Plaza Hotel

**Locations:**

details
  • Grafton, Wisconsin
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Janesville, Wisconsin
  • Billy Mitchell Field
  • Pulaski High School
  • Green Bay area
  • Dennis Township area

**Observations:**

details
  • Father Brasky heard swishing noise and sizzling at 5 a.m. Sunday, followed by thud and explosion
  • Found circular saw blade on church lawn, approximately 16 inches diameter
  • Object had two small tubes and several wires attached
  • Disk appeared steel, hot when picked up
  • Glass ball knocked off church lightning rod by impact
  • Object identified as circular saw blade with attached equipment (prank)
  • Glenn Rowden reported 50-inch diameter "saucer" over Billy Mitchell Field at 10:05 p.m., visible 90 seconds
  • William Humphrey, wife reported slightly illuminated disk appeared to fall near Pulaski High School area at 9 p.m. Sunday, zigzagging directly over Heil Co. plant, seemed to land in wooded area nearby
  • Erwin Rottman saw three objects with tails, flying northwest to southeast direction, turned from gold to another color to silver
  • Frank Phifer at Maryland Hotel saw three balls of fire shoot across Lake Michigan at 8:20 p.m., about mile from shore, at "terrific speed"
  • William Humphrey reported illuminated saucer seen last night zigzagging over Heil Co. plant, seemed to land in wooded area
  • Mr. and Mrs. Alva Sievert and Mr. and Mrs. Howard Roth (four Janesville residents) reported seeing flying disk Saturday night in northwesterly direction from Janesville at "terrific speed"
  • Four viewed disk for 20 minutes, yellow-golden color, turned silvery at times, followed oval flight pattern, tails appeared then disappeared shortly after
  • John Bosch, Milwaukee machinist near Billy Mitchell Field, saw two flashing saucer-shaped objects pass over field shortly after midnight, close enough to definitively state they were not shooting stars or airplanes

**Assessments:**

details
  • Grafton object classified as prank using saw blade
  • Theory: pranksters or belated Fourth of July celebrants attached explosives to saw and sent it skimming through air

**References:**

detailsMilwaukee Sentinel/Journal reporting

**Redactions:** minor (some names partially visible)

**Quotes:**

details
  • Father Brasky heard "swishing noise and a sizzling" at 5 a.m.
  • Theory noted: "pranksters or belated Fourth of July celebrants had attached explosives to the saw, and sent it skimming through the air"
page055
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 055 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** handwritten_note_on_cardboard

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Handwritten note on tan/beige cardboard backing with partial stamps and markings visible at bottom.

**Text Visible:**

"THAT WINCHELL HAS REVEALED THE 'SAUCER' SECRET, YOU CAN'T HIDE ANYTHING FROM US & OUR AGENTS WINCHELL COMMUNIST"

**Dates:**

detailsRecorded stamp visible: "97 JUL 1947"

**Organizations:**

details
  • FBI implied reference
  • Reference to Winchell (likely Walter Winchell, gossip columnist)

**Assessment:**

details
  • Appears to be critical correspondence or note regarding disclosure of saucer information by Winchell
  • Contains political accusation ("COMMUNIST")
  • Reference to FBI or government agents

**Redactions:**

details
  • Partial redaction stamps visible ("RECORDED")
  • Reference numbers partially visible

**Status Notes:**

details
  • Legible handwritten note with clear message
  • Suggests public disclosure concerns about flying saucer information
page056
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 056 Extraction

**Status:** no_content

**Page Description:** Tan/beige cardboard backing with minimal visible text or marking, appears to be blank or back side of document envelope/cover sheet.

**Markings:**

details
  • Faint stamp marks visible
  • Processing notation stamps appear present but largely illegible
  • Reference numbers may be present but unclear

**Notes:** Page appears to be archive envelope or protective backing with minimal substantive content.

page057
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 057 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** office_memorandum / internal_report

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Standard Form 114 - Office Memorandum from Director, FBI, dated July 8, 1947, regarding "Flying Discs or Saucers" telephone calls and news response.

**Dates:**

details
  • July 7, 1947 (telephone calls received)
  • 1:00 A.M. to 2:30 A.M., July 7 (call times)
  • July 8, 1947 (memorandum date)
  • July 7, 1947 (Milwaukee Sentinel/Journal articles referenced)

**People:**

details
  • J. Edgar Hoover (implied as DIRECTOR, FBI)
  • Mr. Fletcher (Bureau staff, attention line)
  • Father JOSEPH BRASKY (priest with contraption)
  • BILL WEEKS (phonetic) (Milwaukee Sentinel reporter)
  • United Press representative (unnamed)
  • Associated Press representative (unnamed)

**Organizations:**

details
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • United Press (UP)
  • Associated Press (AP)
  • Milwaukee Sentinel
  • Milwaukee Journal

**Locations:**

detailsMilwaukee, Wisconsin

**Observations:**

details
  • United Press and Associated Press called FBI multiple times between 1:00-2:30 A.M. July 7
  • Father Brasky interviewed by Milwaukee Sentinel reporter (Bill Weeks)
  • Brasky stated he intended to call FBI concerning contraption identical to flying discs recently publicized
  • United Press wanted FBI statement on the matter
  • Associated Press informed caller that circular saw had been found with devices attached
  • Associated Press stated Father Brasky had been drinking quite heavily
  • Associated Press stated Father Brasky was attempting to seek attention or be rescued from embarrassing position
  • No reference to FBI made in Milwaukee Sentinel article (July 7, 1947)
  • Milwaukee Journal article (attached) referred to alleged statement by Father Brasky that he attempted to get in touch with FBI agent whom he knows
  • Father Brasky claimed to know FBI agent

**Organizations/Contacts:**

detailsMemorandum states Father Brasky never contacted Milwaukee FBI Office or any Agent concerning his find

**Assessments:**

details
  • FBI author's opinion: "this is just another hoax story, since a photograph of Father BRASKY with the saw indicates no basis for any investigation by any authority"
  • Assessment that report was fabricated for attention-seeking purposes

**References:**

details
  • Milwaukee Sentinel article (July 7, 1947, no FBI reference)
  • Milwaukee Journal article (attached, references FBI contact attempt)
  • Enclosures noted

**Redactions:**

details
  • Some names may be partially redacted
  • Standard processing stamps visible

**Quotes:**

details
  • FBI memo: "In my opinion, this is just another hoax story, since a photograph of Father BRASKY with the saw indicates no basis for any investigation by any authority"
  • Regarding media pressure: "possibly some reporter was in an embarrassing position if a story had gone out over news services"
page058
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 058 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** office_memorandum / internal_report (continuation)

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Continuation of Standard Form 114 memorandum from FBI Milwaukee office dated July 8, 1947, regarding Father Brasky and flying disc inquiry.

**Dates:**

details
  • July 7, 1947 (article references)
  • July 8, 1947 (memorandum date)

**People:**

details
  • Father JOSEPH BRASKY
  • Reporter BILL WEEKS (phonetic)
  • Wisconsin resident contacted about Father Brasky

**Organizations:**

details
  • FBI
  • United Press
  • Associated Press
  • Milwaukee FBI Office
  • Milwaukee Sentinel
  • Milwaukee Journal

**Observations:**

details
  • Continuation of narrative about press inquiries and Father Brasky's activities
  • Discussion of attempts to coordinate reporting between United Press and Associated Press
  • FBI official attempted to manage media response to Brasky story
  • Clarification that Father Brasky had not contacted FBI with original report
  • Text appears to continue assessment of hoax status

**Assessments:**

details
  • FBI maintains position that story is hoax
  • Father Brasky did not make official contact with FBI

**Redactions:**

details
  • Standard processing marks visible
  • Case file reference numbers noted

**Notes:** Page continues discussion from page 057 memo regarding media handling and assessment of Father Brasky's flying disc/saw blade discovery.

page059
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 059 Extraction

**Status:** no_content

**Page Description:** Document page heavily faded/worn with text largely illegible. Appears to be reverse side or continuation page of office memorandum with significant deterioration and multiple handwritten marks/stamps.

**Visible Elements:**

details
  • Multiple redaction/recording stamps
  • Handwritten annotations
  • Faint typewritten text not clearly readable
  • Reference numbers or classifications partially visible
  • Processing marks from archival handling

**Assessment:** Page content severely deteriorated, text not reliably readable for extraction purposes. Preservation issues suggest age and handling impact on document quality.

**Notes:** Document appears to be archival copy with multiple processing stamps indicating FBI records management procedures.

page060
doc_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 060 Extraction

**Status:** content_present

**Doc Type:** newspaper_clipping

**Classification:** unclassified

**Page Description:** Newspaper article continuation discussing Father Brasky incident and broader saucer phenomenon analysis, with references to skeptical scientific assessment.

**Dates:**

detailsJuly 1947 (article context)

**People:**

details
  • Dr. J.S. Nassau, director of Warner & Swasey Observatory at Case Institute of Technology, Cleveland
  • Capt. Tom Brown, army air force spokesman, Washington

**Organizations:**

details
  • Case Institute of Technology, Cleveland
  • Warner & Swasey Observatory
  • Army Air Forces

**Observations:**

details
  • Skeptical scientists discussing flying saucer phenomenon
  • Scientists noting objects at 10,000 feet altitude would require 20 feet diameter minimum for clear visibility
  • Such objects would require large mass of metal
  • Would be more conspicuous at night
  • Would be seen by far greater number of persons
  • Objects reported in New Jersey (Palisades Park, Bergenfield area)
  • Dr. Nassau inclined to "think the reports are fancies"
  • Army air force spokesman acknowledging uncertainty about phenomenon

**Assessments:**

details
  • Scientific skepticism about authenticity of flying saucer reports
  • Physical impossibility arguments presented
  • Assessment that observational claims do not match expected visibility
  • General dismissal of extraordinary claims

**References:**

details
  • Dr. J.S. Nassau, Case Institute of Technology
  • Army Air Forces official statements
  • Scientific analysis articles

**Redactions:** none visible

**Quotes:**

details
  • Dr. Nassau: "think the reports are fancies"
  • Capt. Brown: "We're not dismissing the possibility that there's something to it, and we're not dismissing the possibility that it's all a hoax"
page061
statuscorrespondence
doc_typePersonal letter
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Handwritten personal correspondence envelope addressed to Mr. J. Edgar Hoover, dated with Woodstock, Illinois postmark from 1947.

## Dates

detailsPostmark: 1947

## People

detailsMr. J. Edgar Hoover (recipient)

## Organizations

detailsFBI implied

## Locations

details
  • Woodstock, Illinois (postal origin)
  • Washington, D.C. (destination - implied from address)

## Observations

details
  • Envelope shows significant redaction/censoring with blue marker
  • Handwritten address to Hoover's office
  • 3-cent purple stamp (United States postage)

## Redactions

detailsSignificant handwritten content redacted with blue marker across upper portion
page062
statuscorrespondence
doc_typeHotel letterhead letter with handwritten content
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Letter written on Hotel Woodstock stationery with handwritten content discussing flying saucers. Content discusses observations and contains references to FBI and military matters.

## Dates

details
  • Hotel address dated: G.I.R-5 (reference marking)
  • Date of letter content: References to events and discussions circa July 1947

## People

details
  • Mrs. Mae Nass (referenced recipient)
  • Daily S136 (signature/reference)
  • B.F.D. (reference)
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin address referenced

## Organizations

details
  • Hotel Woodstock (Woodstock, Illinois - sender)
  • FBI (implied recipient/audience)

## Locations

details
  • Woodstock, Illinois
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin (reference)
  • U.S. (general reference)
  • Poland (mentioned in content)

## Observations

details
  • Extensive handwritten letter discussing flying saucers
  • References to "flying saucers" and observations
  • Mentions coverage of U.S. territories
  • Discussion of a device with characteristics resembling aircraft
  • References to Russia and military/intelligence concerns
  • Multiple redactions and stamp markings

## Redactions

details
  • Various sections marked with "REDACTED" stamp
  • Black censoring marks obscure specific details
  • Multiple rubber stamp impressions indicating official processing

## Quotes

details
  • Discussion of "flying saucers" observations
  • References to military/aircraft-like characteristics
page063
statuscorrespondence
doc_typeHandwritten letter continuation
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation of handwritten letter discussing observations and concerns related to flying saucers and geopolitical security matters.

## Dates

detailsNot explicitly dated on this page

## People

detailsMrs. Mae Nass (implied correspondent)

## Organizations

detailsRussia (mentioned as concern)

## Locations

details
  • Russia (mentioned concern area)
  • Unnamed locations referenced

## Observations

details
  • Letter discusses "flying saucers" observations
  • Content references concerns about Russia and strategic military matters
  • Discussion of whether observations should be pursued/investigated
  • References to mounting evidence and sightings
  • Writer expresses belief in the reality of the phenomenon
  • Mentions concerns about propulsion/motion characteristics

## Assessments

details
  • Writer believes in the authenticity of flying saucer observations
  • Suggests phenomenon may be of strategic military importance
  • Expresses concern about inadequate investigation response

## Quotes

details
  • "Now this woman very only be genuine but it should not be passed up"
  • References to "flying saucers" being "coming out wild all"
  • Discussion of whether Russia plan "defraying no in all" regarding the objects
  • Writer mentions belief in legitimacy of phenomenon
page064
statusno_content
doc_typeHotel letterhead (blank)
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Blank Hotel Woodstock letterhead page with minimal markings. Contains only standard hotel header with address and phone information.

## Organizations

detailsHotel Woodstock, Woodstock, Illinois

## Locations

detailsWoodstock, Illinois

## Observations

details
  • Page is essentially blank with no substantive content
  • Standard hotel stationery with business information
  • Phone: 636, Booth Phone B14
  • Located in Business District notation

## Redactions

detailsTwo small redaction marks on upper portion of page
page065
statusno_content
doc_typeDocument page (verso/reverse)
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Blank page with archival processing stamps and reference markings at bottom indicating document filing/routing information.

## Observations

details
  • Predominantly blank document page
  • Multiple stamp markings indicating official processing and routing
  • Archival reference numbers visible at bottom
  • Very faint text visible but not clearly legible
  • Standard document processing marks

## Redactions

detailsTwo redaction marks visible in upper portion
page066
statusmemorandum
doc_typeFBI Office Memorandum
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Standard FBI office memorandum reporting information about a "flying disc" incident received from civilian source and communications with military authorities.

## Dates

details
  • Date: July 11, 1947
  • Time references: 10:45 PM, 10:50 PM, 10:55 PM (all July 11, 1947)

## People

details
  • K.C. Howe (From)
  • D.M. Ladd (To - implied)
  • Mr. Tolson
  • Mr. E.A. Tamm
  • Mr. Clegg
  • Mr. Glavin
  • Mr. Ladd
  • Mr. Nichols
  • Mr. Rosen
  • Mr. Tracy
  • Mr. Carson
  • Mr. Egan
  • Mr. Beldon
  • Mr. Pennington
  • Mr. Quinn
  • Mr. Henrich
  • Clerk Piercy (Washington Field Office)
  • Alvin B. Parker (200 6th Street, Laurel, Maryland - source of report)
  • Captain West (G-2 duty officer)
  • Sid Roberts (AP - Associated Press)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation)
  • Washington Field Office (FBI)
  • G-2 (Army Intelligence)
  • Associated Press (AP)

## Locations

details
  • Laurel, Maryland (location of reported incident)
  • Washington, D.C. (FBI office location)

## Observations

details
  • Alvin B. Parker reported a "flying disc" had just landed in his yard
  • Parker stated "machinery is still buzzing"
  • Parker described as extremely excited during call
  • Very limited initial details available from Parker
  • Information passed to Army G-2
  • Media inquiries received from AP

## Assessments

details
  • Report taken seriously and immediately escalated to military authorities
  • Information provided to press regarding Army knowledge

## Redactions

details
  • Multiple redaction marks through recipient list on right side
  • Typical FBI routing/recipient markings

## References

details
  • Record number: 62-83894-15
  • Indexed: 36 JUL 16 1947
page067
statusmemorandum
doc_typeFBI Office Memorandum
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

FBI office memorandum reporting on a recovered "flying disc" recovered in Black River Falls, Wisconsin area, with analysis that it appears to be a cardboard construction rather than a genuine anomalous object.

## Dates

details
  • Date: July 11, 1947 (implied from sequence)
  • Incident date: July 10, 1947 (3:30 p.m.)

## People

details
  • D.M. Ladd (From)
  • Mr. E.A. Tamm (To)
  • SAC Johnson (Milwaukee Office)
  • Colonel Harry Schafer (Reserve Officer, Civilian Air Patrol, Black River Falls, Wisconsin)
  • Sig Hanson (City Engineer, Black River Falls, Wisconsin - finder)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation)
  • Milwaukee Office (FBI)
  • Civilian Air Patrol
  • Air Corps (U.S. Air Force)

## Locations

details
  • Black River Falls, Wisconsin
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin (FBI office)

## Observations

details
  • Disc described as "large 17" (approximately 17 inches)
  • Appeared to be made of cardboard
  • Painted with silver airplane dope
  • Center contained tube and small motor
  • Propeller attached to side
  • Colonel Schafer opinion: disc would not be able to fly by itself
  • To be taken to Air Corps Headquarters
  • Hanson did not want to release disc without FBI approval
  • Press inquiring about the matter

## Assessments

details
  • Assessed as hoax or non-anomalous object
  • No evidence of extraordinary properties
  • FBI declined to attempt recovery of material not in Bureau custody

## Organizations/Instructions

details
  • FBI instructed Milwaukee office:
  • - No reason for Bureau to secure release of material
  • - Make no comment to press
  • - Coordinate with Air Corps on release

## Redactions

detailsRecipient list redacted on right side with multiple markings

## References

details
  • Record number: 62-83894-16
  • Indexed: 37 JUL 19 1947
  • EX-56 marking
page068
statusmemorandum
doc_typeFBI Office Memorandum
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

FBI office memorandum with handwritten annotations reporting examination results of alleged flying disc recovered in Laurel, Maryland, determined to be constructed from household items and simple electrical components.

## Dates

details
  • Date: July 12, 1947
  • Time: 11:55 P.M., July 11, 1947 (examination report received)

## People

details
  • F.P. Griffin (From)
  • Mr. Ladd (To)
  • Sergeant Lonis (Laurel, Maryland Police Department)
  • Captain Calvert (G-2 Duty Officer)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • Laurel, Maryland Police Department
  • G-2 (Army Intelligence)

## Locations

detailsLaurel, Maryland

## Observations

details
  • Object examined by police sergeant
  • Construction: Gulf Oil sign top plus garbage can top
  • Painted with aluminum paint
  • Paint still wet at time of examination
  • Attached components: dry cell battery, flashlight bulb, wires, buzzer
  • Recent construction indicated by wet paint

## Assessments

details
  • Determined to be hoax or mundane construction
  • No extraordinary properties
  • Assessment: constructed from ordinary household materials and simple electrical components

## Organizations/Instructions

details
  • FBI referred matter to Army
  • Sergeant Lonis inquiry about FBI investigation rejected
  • Information provided to Army G-2

## Redactions

details
  • Recipient list redacted on right side
  • Multiple handwritten annotations

## References

details
  • Record number: 62-83894-17
  • Indexed: 36 JUL 17 1947
  • EX-56 marking
  • Date stamp: 57 JUL 24 1947
page069
statusno_content
doc_typeDocument page with faint text
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Page with heavily faded or partially legible typed content. Text is largely indecipherable due to age and image quality, with only archival markings clearly visible.

## Observations

details
  • Predominantly indecipherable content
  • Faint typed text visible but not clearly readable
  • Standard document processing and archival stamps at bottom
  • Multiple reference markings

## Redactions

details
  • Two redaction marks visible in upper portion
  • Text appears to have been typed but is too faint to extract reliably
page070
statusteletype
doc_typeFBI Teletype/Radiotype Communication
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

FBI teletype communication reporting details of hexagonal flying disc recovered near Roswell, New Mexico, with assessment as weather balloon with radar reflector.

## Dates

details
  • Transmission: July 8, 1947
  • Time: 6:17 PM
  • Incident: July 8, 1947 ("this date")

## People

details
  • Major Curtan (Headquarters, Eighth Air Force - source of information)
  • Director (FBI)
  • SAC, Cincinnati

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • Eighth Air Force (USAF)
  • Wright Field (Air Force facility)
  • Associated Press
  • National Broadcasting Company
  • Press services (attempting to break story)

## Locations

details
  • Roswell, New Mexico (recovery location)
  • Wright Field (examination location)
  • Cincinnati (FBI office)

## Observations

details
  • Object described as hexagonal in shape
  • Suspended from balloon by cable
  • Balloon approximately 20 feet in diameter
  • Object identified as high altitude weather balloon with radar reflector
  • Telephone conversation between Eighth Air Force office and Wright Field had NOT confirmed disc and balloon being same object
  • Disc and balloon being transported to Wright Field by special plane for examination
  • Media attempting to break story
  • National broadcasting company, Associated Press, and others attempting story

## Assessments

details
  • Assessment: object is high altitude weather balloon with radar reflector
  • Ordinary explanation for phenomenon

## Organizations/Instructions

details
  • Wright Field to advise Cincinnati office of examination results
  • No further investigation being conducted

## References

details
  • Record number: 62-83894-18
  • Indexed: 20 JUL 22 1947
  • Recorded date stamp visible

## Redactions

details
  • Document shows redaction markings
  • Multiple stamps and processing marks
page071
statusno_content
doc_typeTeletype transmission header page
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Page showing teletype transmission header and routing information. Contains primarily archival and transmission metadata with minimal substantive content.

## Dates

detailsReceived: JUL 8, 8:22 PM '47

## Organizations

details
  • FBI Department of Justice
  • Communications Section (FBI)

## Observations

details
  • Standard teletype transmission markup and routing indicators
  • FBI Department of Justice header
  • Shows receipt time and processing information
  • Primarily administrative/technical information

## Redactions

detailsTypical transmission markings and redaction stamps
page072
statusteletype
doc_typeFBI Teletype/Radiotype Communication
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

FBI teletype communication reporting circular disc sighting in Shreveport, Louisiana with detailed physical description and characteristics of the object.

## Dates

details
  • Transmission: July 7, 1947
  • Time: 8-02 (approximately)

## People

details
  • F. C. Hariston (Fifty Fifty Four Avenue, Shreveport, Louisiana - witness)
  • Hairston (alternate spelling of witness name - picked up disc)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • G-2 (Army Intelligence)
  • Barksdale Field (Air Force base)
  • Associated Press

## Locations

details
  • Shreveport, Louisiana (Fifteen Fifty Four Texas Avenue area)
  • Texas Avenue (specific location)
  • Barksdale Field area

## Observations

details
  • Circular disc observed at approximately 6:05 PM from NW direction
  • Disc landed in Fifteen Hundred block of Texas Avenue
  • Hairston picked up disc at Fifteen Fifty Four Texas Avenue
  • Disc whirling when seen in air
  • Fire seen spouting from sides
  • Fire went out on landing
  • Smoke issued few seconds after fire went out
  • Disc picked up and was not hot
  • Thin aluminum disc, sixteen inches in diameter
  • Small coils, two inches in diameter at ends
  • Coils connected by two copper wires to two terminals on each coil
  • Wires connected at crossing in center of disc to an object one inch in diameter and two inches long
  • Object similar to starter on fluorescent light
  • Center object has upper end made in USA
  • Made sound like a policeman's whistle
  • Smooth side toward earth in flight
  • Barksdale Field agreement: if not harmfull, would not turn over to FBI if superior instructions requested
  • Names of all persons who handled disc before arrival of agent secured
  • Barksdale making photos
  • All secure and forward photos to Bureau
  • Believed press aware of incident

## Assessments

details
  • Assessed as constructed device, likely hoax
  • Simple electrical components suggesting human manufacture
  • "Made in USA" marking indicating domestic construction

## Redactions

details
  • Multiple redaction marks and stamps
  • Portions redacted including classification information

## References

details
  • Record number: 62-83894-19
  • Communications Section processing marks
page073
statusno_content
doc_typeTeletype transmission metadata page
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Page showing teletype transmission received header and routing information for the Shreveport, Louisiana flying disc report.

## Dates

detailsReceived: JUL 7, 10 18 PM '47

## Organizations

details
  • FBI Department of Justice
  • Communications Section

## Observations

details
  • Standard teletype transmission metadata
  • Receipt time and processing information
  • Primarily administrative/technical transmission information
  • Multiple routing and handling marks

## Redactions

detailsStandard transmission processing marks and redaction stamps
page074
statusletter
doc_typeTyped letter with handwritten signature
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Formal letter from J. Edgar Hoover, FBI Director, responding to correspondence regarding flying disc information. Acknowledges receipt of letter and thanks sender for providing information.

## Dates

details
  • Date: July 10, 1947
  • Letter reference: July 6, 1947 (referenced incoming correspondence date)

## People

details
  • John Edgar Hoover (From - FBI Director)
  • Mr. Hoersch (To - recipient, 345 Central Avenue, Jersey City, New Jersey)
  • F.R.Y. (handler/secretary initials)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation

## Locations

details
  • Jersey City, New Jersey (recipient address)
  • Washington, D.C. (implied FBI location)

## Observations

details
  • Response to civilian providing information about flying discs
  • Standard appreciation letter format
  • Typed form with handwritten signature
  • Communications Section processing markings

## Quotes

details"Your letter dated July 6, 1947, has been received and I do want to thank you for making this information available to me. Your interest is appreciated."

## References

details
  • Record number: 62-83894-20
  • Communications Section mailed stamp: JUL 11 1947 P.M.
  • Typical FBI response letter to civilian inquiry

## Redactions

detailsStandard FBI administrative markings
page075
statusno_content
doc_typeDocument verso/blank page
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Blank page verso of previous letter with only archival processing and mailing stamps visible.

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • Communications Section
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation

## Observations

details
  • Blank page with standard archival markings
  • Communications Section processing stamps
  • Mailing date indication: JUL 11 1947 P.M.
  • Standard document routing and reference marks

## Redactions

detailsStandard processing marks and stamps
page076
statusreadable
doc_typecorrespondence

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Handwritten letter on "The MacReynolds" letterhead from Asbury Park, New Jersey, dated 7/4/47. Addressed to Federal Bureau of Investigation, Washington D.C.

## People

detailsSender: (handwritten signature illegible but appears to be from letterhead "MacReynolds" at 305-307 Sunset Avenue, Asbury Park, New Jersey; telephone 2-141)

## Observations

The writer reports information regarding "Flying Discs" observed on July 4 and describes a sighting from a dance hall at Asbury Park. States object appeared to start from dance hall and was momentarily thought to be a balloon but moved in a swift direction at apparently constant speed, gradually ascending following path similar to trajectory of a bullet. Object "pronounced" and disc-shaped at distance, moving north along (location reference partially illegible).

## Assessments

Writer suggests the information may be of some help to the FBI. Expresses that observation occurred at dance hall and concerns are about the object's behavior and trajectory.

## References

None identifiable.

## Redactions

Moderate handling marks and creasing visible. Some text partially obscured by archival redaction stamps.

## Quotes

"It appeared to have started from the dance hall... & momentarily I thought it was a balloon but it went in a swift direction at an apparently constant speed & gradually ascending following a path similar to the trajectory of a bullet"

page077
statusno_content

Page is largely blank with only archival stamps and processing marks visible. Contains FBI received stamps and reference numbers but no substantive content.

page078
statusreadable
doc_typecorrespondence

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Typed letter on FBI letterhead, addressed to J. Edgar Hoover, Washington D.C. Concerns flying discs reported in newspapers.

## People

details
  • Addressee: J. Edgar Hoover
  • Sender: M.T. Norris
  • Family members referenced: "2 sons in this war & another who over-did for his America"

## Organizations

details
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • Newspaper industry (referenced collectively)

## Locations

detailsChicago (return address: 1734 Thome Ave, Chicago)

## Observations

Correspondent questions whether FBI should coordinate with newspapers to suppress coverage of flying disc incidents. Notes that Army Air Force Intelligence stated "we are not interested" when contacted by press, which the writer feels aroused news outlets.

## Assessments

Writer believes the flying disc situation could be "something far more important than may seem at first" and suggests national security implications given "all the enemies we have, even within our borders." Recommends media coordination strategy.

## References

References wartime service and national security concerns.

## Redactions

Document marked "TRUE COPY"

## Quotes

"Doesn't it seem wisest for you to forbid papers - (No not forbid - but ask the co-operation of all papers) to keep all news of those discs out of the news until you are sure just what they are & where fran"

"There is too much of danger ahead anyway"

page079
statusreadable
doc_typeoffice_memorandum
classificationunclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

FBI Standard Form 64 Office Memorandum dated July 11, 1947. From H.B. Fletcher Jr. to D.M. Ladd regarding "Flying Discs."

## People

details
  • To: D.M. Ladd
  • From: H.B. Fletcher Jr.
  • Witness: Mrs. Fred Esterbrook, 215 7th Avenue East, Twin Falls, Idaho
  • SAC: Bannister (Butte Office)
  • Local contact: Fire Chief at Burbank

## Organizations

details
  • FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation)
  • SAC Butte Office
  • Police Department, Twin Falls, Idaho
  • Army authorities (local)

## Locations

details
  • Twin Falls, Idaho (witness residence and disc discovery location)
  • Back yard of home next door to witness

## Dates

details
  • July 10, 1947 (date of observation - 2:45 a.m. Mountain Time)
  • July 11, 1947 (memo date)

## Observations

Object found in back yarddisc approximately 30.5" in diameter, circular, dished like a saucer with saucer-within-saucer construction (cymbal-like). Plastic dome approximately 14" diameter affixed by 8 bolts (similar to stove bolts) on one surface. Opposite surface has metal dome: gold-colored outside, silver/tin-colored inside. Three tubes similar to radio tubes visible through plastic dome. Wiring present. Disc 10" thick generally, 14" thick at dome areas. Object marked "Inspected TS." Some wiring burned off, appears something missing.

## Assessments

SAC Bannister assesses construction indicates significant effort, possibly prank. Press aware of incident. Military handoff arranged.

## References

None identifiable.

## Redactions

Minor archival markings.

## Quotes

"A disc 30.5 in diameter, circular in shape, it is dished like a saucer and actually there is a saucer within a saucer in the manner of cymbals"

"Through the plastic dome can be observed three tubes similar to radio tubes and there is some wiring"

page080
statusno_content

Page contains only archival routing stamps, processing marks, and laboratory division stamps. No substantive text or content visible.

page081
statusreadable
doc_typecorrespondence_with_memo

Page Description

View PDF ↗

FBI response letter dated July 18, 1947, from John Edgar Hoover, FBI Director, to Mr. G. Norris at 1734 Thome Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Acknowledgment of citizen correspondence regarding flying discs.

## People

details
  • From: John Edgar Hoover, FBI Director
  • To: Mr. G. Norris
  • Original correspondent: M.T. Norris (earlier letter regarding flying discs)

## Organizations

details
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • Special Agent Chicago Office
  • Bankers Building, Chicago

## Locations

detailsChicago, Illinois (1900 Bankers Building)

## Dates

details
  • July 7, 1947 (referenced letter receipt date)
  • July 18, 1947 (response date)

## Assessments

FBI Director acknowledges letter and information, stating content has been carefully reviewed and made permanent record in Bureau files. Director appreciates citizen interest in reporting information.

## References

details
  • Bureau's Chicago files regarding "flying discs" discussion
  • Note indicates no identifiable information on writer in Chicago files

## Redactions

Notation added post-letter: "Despite the fact that this letter refers to 'flying discs', it is not believed that the information furnished is sufficiently important to refer to Army authorities."

## Quotes

"I wish to acknowledge receipt of your letter postmarked July 7, 1947... Your interest in writing as you did is indeed appreciated... In the future should you have information which you feel might be of interest to this Bureau you might find it convenient to contact the Special Agent in Charge of our Chicago Office"

page082
statusreadable
doc_typecorrespondence

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Handwritten letter continuation, appears to be second page of earlier citizen report. Discusses newspaper coverage of flying discs and press handling concerns.

## People

detailsWriter appears to be continuing correspondence from B. Norris/M.T. Norris (Chicago)

## Observations

References concern that papers carried flying disc story without coordination. Questions why newspaper reports were made if reporters could have been made to see "how much more sensible not to report - it except to the F.B.I."

## Assessments

Writer expresses concern about loose press handling of UAP information and suggests coordinated media blackout strategy would be more prudent.

## References

References wartime security concerns and multiple family members lost in service.

## Quotes

Continuation of earlier correspondence themeconcern about media coverage of flying discs and potential national security implications.
page083
statusreadable
doc_typeoffice_memorandum
classificationunclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

FBI Standard Form 64 Office Memorandum dated July 10, 1947. From Roy E. Wood to D.M. Ladd regarding "Flying Saucers (Discs) - Information Concerning."

## People

details
  • To: D.M. Ladd
  • From: Roy E. Wood
  • SAC: Hood (Los Angeles Office)
  • Resident Agent: Burbank, California
  • Fire Chief: Burbank
  • Contact: Army Air Force Intelligence (Los Angeles)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI Los Angeles Office
  • Burbank Resident Agent office
  • Burbank Fire Department
  • Army Air Force Intelligence (Los Angeles)
  • Military authorities (G-2)

## Locations

details
  • Burbank, California
  • Los Angeles, California (city limits reference)

## Dates

details
  • July 9, 1947 (incident report time: 11:30 PM)
  • July 10, 1947 (memo date - 5:45 AM)
  • Morning of July 10, 1947 (military handoff scheduled)

## Observations

"Flying disc" reported to have landed in or near Burbank, bursting into flame upon landing. Caused fire in woods (location uncertain: Burbank or Los Angeles city limits). Fire chief at Burbank recovered disc and offered to hold it for FBI. Object described as aluminum disc approximately 21" in diameter, weighing about 10 pounds, painted with aluminum paint. Contains some sort of radio tube in center of disc.

## Assessments

SAC Hood reports newspapers were attempting to get information and had called Army Air Force Intelligence, who responded "we are not interested." Hood concerned this response aroused newspaper interest and intended publication with critical tone. SAC Hood held no public statement beyond admitting possession and military transfer scheduled.

## References

Military handoff to Army G-2 (Intelligence) morning of July 10.

## Redactions

Minor archival marks.

## Quotes

"Flying disc had landed in or near Burbank and had been seen to burst into flame when it landed"

"Army Air Force Intelligence who had stated 'we are not interested'"

"The object was an aluminum disc about 21 in diameter weighing about ten pounds, painted with aluminum paint and having some sort of a radio tube in the center of the disc"

page084
statusreadable
doc_typeoffice_memorandum
classificationunclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

FBI Standard Form 64 Office Memorandum continuation, same memo as page 083. Contains full text of July 10, 1947 memo from Roy E. Wood to D.M. Ladd regarding flying saucer/disc reports from Burbank, Los Angeles area.

## People

details
  • To: D.M. Ladd
  • From: Roy E. Wood
  • SAC: Hood
  • Resident Agent: Burbank
  • Fire Chief: Burbank, identified as contact point
  • Army Air Force Intelligence: stated "we are not interested"

## Organizations

details
  • FBI Los Angeles Office
  • Burbank Police Department
  • Burbank Fire Department
  • Army Air Force Intelligence
  • Military authorities (G-2)
  • Newspapers (requesting information)

## Locations

details
  • Burbank, California
  • Los Angeles, California

## Dates

details
  • July 9, 1947 (11:30 PM - initial report time)
  • July 10, 1947 (5:45 AM - memo time; morning scheduled for military transfer)

## Observations

Object recovered by Burbank Fire Chiefaluminum disc, approximately 21" diameter, weighing ~10 pounds, aluminum paint, contains radio tube in center. Possession held by resident agent at Burbank, scheduled transfer to military G-2.

## Assessments

SAC Hood concerned that Army Air Force Intelligence statement of disinterest ("we are not interested") aroused press curiosity, leading newspapers to plan critical publication. Hood's communication strategy: admit possession, transfer to military authority, avoid press quotations emphasizing FBI disinterest.

## References

Cross-reference to recording number visible on document.

## Redactions

Standard archival handling stamps.

## Quotes

"Mr. Hood's purpose in calling was to place the Bureau on notice regarding the above described object and any further information would be transmitted to the Bureau at once"

"Action: None indicated"

page085
statusreadable
doc_typerouting_and_routing_stamps

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Page contains multiple FBI routing stamps and inter-office transmission markings dated July 10-17, 1947. Shows document circulation through various FBI offices and divisions.

## Organizations

details
  • FBI Communications Section
  • FBI Laboratory Division
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice

## Dates

details
  • July 10, 1947 (10:31 AM, 9:15 AM received stamps)
  • July 16, 1947 (2:16 PM routing)
  • July 17, 1947 (12:28 PM routing)

## Locations

detailsWashington, D.C. (FBI headquarters implied)

## Observations

Document routed through multiple internal FBI divisions including Communications Section, Laboratory Division, and various headquarters offices. Stamps indicate receipt at different times throughout July 10-17, 1947 period.

## Redactions

Standard processing stamps only.

page086
statusno_content

Page is blank archival separator or envelope with only file reference number visible (62-83894-24). No substantive content.

page087
statusno_content

Page contains only archival text caption "SIDE VIEW" and filing annotations. Appears to be label page preceding photographic material. No substantive content.

page088
statusreadable
doc_typephotograph

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Black and white photograph showing side view of a disc-shaped object against light background. Object exhibits classic saucer-like configuration with two domes (one larger, one smaller) and what appears to be a support rod or antenna projecting downward.

## Observations

Object photographed in profile/side view shows:

details
  • Primary disc body with dished saucer profile
  • Larger dome visible on one end
  • Smaller dome or cap structure
  • Visible extension or support structure at bottom
  • Shadowing suggests three-dimensional metallic construction
  • Smooth surface appearance on primary disc body
  • Dome appears to have transparency or translucence

## Assessments

Photographic documentation of recovered or constructed disc object. Lighting and shadow suggest laboratory or controlled environment photography.

## Redactions

None identifiable.

page089
statusno_content

Page appears to be archival blank or separator page between photograph sections. Contains only minimal marking or caption space. No substantive content visible.

page090
statusreadable
doc_typephotograph

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Black and white photograph showing top/bottom view of a circular disc object. Displays flat circular surface with visible structural features including mounting points, central aperture, and bolt or fastener arrangements around perimeter.

## Observations

Object photographed from top/flat angle shows:

details
  • Circular disc form with defined edge/rim
  • Central dark aperture or opening (approximately center)
  • Multiple bolt or fastener points arranged around inner perimeter (8+ visible)
  • Segmented or sectioned surface appearance
  • Flat to slightly curved profile
  • White/light colored exterior surface
  • Triangular or angular fixture points visible at cardinal directions on rim

## Assessments

Photographic documentation appears to be direct overhead view of recovered disc. Fastener arrangement and central aperture are clearly documented. Possible mounting or assembly points visible.

## Redactions

None identifiable.

page091
statusno_content

This page contains only a title "BOTTOM VIEW" and is otherwise blank with minimal markings.

page092
statusreadable
doc_typePhotograph
classificationunclassified
page_descriptionBlack and white photograph showing bottom view of a circular metallic disc. The object displays a circular rim with a central opening/aperture and mounting hardware. A dark vertical protrusion extends from the center. The disc appears weathered and is mounted on a support structure for photography.
observations
  • Disc-shaped object with convex bottom surface
  • Central circular opening with dark center
  • Vertical antenna or mounting bracket visible
  • Circular rim structure
  • Overall condition shows aging/weathering
doc_typePhysical evidence photograph
page093
statusno_content

This page contains only a title "TOP VIEW" and is otherwise blank.

page094
statusreadable
doc_typeOffice memorandum
classificationunclassified
date1947-07-17
page_descriptionFBI Office Memorandum reporting recovery of a so-called "flying disc" found in North Hollywood, California on July 9, 1947.
dates
  • Report date: July 17, 1947
  • Incident date: July 9, 1947
  • Device acquisition: evening of July 9, 1947
  • Fire extinguishing time: approximately 10:30 P.M.
people
  • SA Richard D. Auerbach (FBI agent who recovered object)
  • Battalion Fire Chief Wallace E. Newcomb
  • Unknown woman (caller reporting the disc)
  • Major Courtney W. Hempstead (G-2, Fort MacArthur, San Pedro, California)
organizations
  • FBI Los Angeles Office
  • Valley Fire Department, Van Nuys, California
  • G-2 (Army Intelligence), Fort MacArthur
locations
  • North Hollywood, California
  • Radford and Magnolia Streets (vicinity of landing)
  • 11858 Magnolia Boulevard (resident's property)
  • Valley Fire Department, Van Nuys
observations
  • Device approximately 30 inches in diameter
  • All metal construction
  • Disc shaped
  • Had radio antenna
  • Burst into flames upon landing
  • Two convex steel discs, approximately 2 feet in diameter
  • Fused together at outer edge
  • Fastened at center by hollow cylindrical connection
  • Vertical galvanized iron fin screwed to top
  • Short length of pipe extending from outer circumference into interior
  • Radio tube installed in center of top side
  • Total weight approximately 20 pounds
  • Object was burning when discovered and extinguished with fire hose
assessments
  • Major Courtney W. Hempstead reported the object was definitely a hoax
  • Hempstead concluded it could not have flown under its own power
referencesPhotographs taken of device from various positions forwarded to Bureau
redactionsMinor redaction marks present on document
page095
statusno_content

Page contains light text/markings that are largely unreadable due to document condition. Appears to be stamped receipt/routing markings with partial stamps visible but text is too faint to extract reliably.

page096
statusreadable
doc_typeOffice memorandum (continuation)
classificationunclassified
date1947-07-17
page_descriptionContinuation of FBI memorandum detailing follow-up investigation regarding the North Hollywood disc, including witness statement from Frank V. Brown.
dates
  • Follow-up date: July 10, 1947
  • Report date: July 17, 1947
people
  • Frank V. Brown, 6552 Teesdale Avenue, North Hollywood (witness)
  • Young high school students (unnamed)
  • Youngster, approximately 16 years of age, employed at Chevron Service Station
locations
  • North Hollywood Service Station
  • Chevron Service Station at corner of Victory Boulevard and Whitsett Street
organizationsG-2 Office, San Pedro, California
observations
  • Brown reported overhearing high school students discussing the disc discovery
  • Students appeared to be laughing about excitement caused by finding
  • Brown received impression that students either had made or knew someone who made the disc
  • Students had been working on it for approximately two weeks
  • One identified student worked at Chevron Service Station, approximately 16 years of age
assessments
  • Information suggests possible hoax creation by local youth
  • Information was shared with G-2 Office at San Pedro, California
redactionsMinor administrative stamps present
page097
statusreadable
doc_typeOffice memorandum
classificationunclassified
date1947-07-31
page_descriptionFBI Office Memorandum from SAC Butte office reporting inquiry from news source regarding flying discs observations in Idaho.
dates
  • Report date: July 31, 1947
  • Sighting date: July 1, 1947
peopleDave Johnson (Idaho Daily Statesman newspaper, Boise, Idaho)
organizations
  • Idaho Daily Statesman, Boise
  • Butte FBI Office
  • Army and Navy (contacted by journalist)
locationsTrail Creek near Sun Valley, Idaho
observations
  • Multiple citizens reported flying discs sightings
  • Sightings observed on July 1, 1947 in vicinity of Trail Creek near Sun Valley
  • Reportedly seen by reputable citizens
  • Journalist stated phenomenon undoubtedly not figment of imagination due to number of reports
assessments
  • FBI Butte Office was not conducting investigation
  • Journalist inquiring of Army and Navy officials regarding their investigation status
redactionsMinimal markings
page098
statusno_content

Page contains administrative routing stamps and received date markings (JUL 7 10:54 AM), with "INTERNAL SECURITY F.B.I." and "DEPT. OF JUST." visible. Remainder of page is blank.

page099
statusreadable
doc_typeTeletype communication
classificationunclassified
date1947-07-16
page_descriptionFBI teletype message reporting flying disc discovery in Seattle area with detailed technical description. Document is heavily marked with red pen annotations and edits.
dates
  • Report date: July 16, 1947
  • Sighting date: "last night" (approximately July 15-16, 1947)
peopleMrs. I. L. Ahrimer, Two Six Haught Eight Dash Third Ave., West, Seattle (witness)
locationsSeattle, Washington area
observations
  • Flying disc reported landed on roof
  • Object burning at approximately 9:40 P.M.
  • Fire immediately extinguished
  • Disc fell short distance from witness's offices
  • Object described as approximately twenty-eight inch diameter circular piece
  • Three sixteenth inch plywood cuffed up on two sides
  • Object held together by wire across center
  • Painted light gray outside and red inside
  • Inside of disc had painted letters in white paint forming quote "U.S.S.R. UNQUOTE"
  • Also quote "U.S.A. UNQUOTE" (would appear to be eye-painted backwards and hammer and sickle mounted)
  • Mounted on pieces of bakelite in center
  • Two radio tubes mounted inside, wired up
  • Quart type cylindrical shaped oil can mounted inside
  • Short piece of rubber tubing from can to entrance
  • Pipe about fourteen inches long extending through disc
  • Outer end of pipe approximately six inch piece of cloth stuck into entrance end
  • Cloth saturated with some substance
  • Cloth was burning when recovered
assessments
  • Apparent hoax or experimental device
  • Consensus that disc could not fly
redactions
  • Heavy pen markings through text
  • Multiple editorial annotations
quotes
  • "U.S.S.R. UNQUOTE"
  • "U.S.A. UNQUOTE"

Page 100

View PDF ↗
page100
statusno_content

Page contains administrative routing stamps and received markings. Remainder of page is blank with minimal text visible (upside-down stamps from reverse page bleed-through).

Page 101

View PDF ↗
page101
statusreadable
doc_typeTeletype continuation/Page Two
classificationunclassified
page_descriptionContinuation/second page of teletype message regarding Seattle disc sighting.
observations
  • Consensus of all present: disc could not fly
  • Disc currently in possession of ONI (Office of Naval Intelligence) Seattle
  • No investigation being conducted
  • No publicity thus far
  • No comment being made in event press inquiries received
assessments
  • Object conclusively identified as non-functional device
  • No further action anticipated
redactionsMinor pen markings

Page 102

View PDF ↗
page102
statusno_content

Administrative routing page showing "RECEIVED TELETYPE UNIT JUL 16 2:25 PM '47 F.B.I. DEPT. OF JUSTICE" with receiver stamps. Remainder of page is blank.

Page 103

View PDF ↗
page103
statusreadable
doc_typeOffice memorandum
classificationunclassified
date1947-07-18
page_descriptionFBI memorandum from SAC New Haven reporting on civilian informant Edwin M. Bailey Jr., a scientist who provided theories regarding flying saucers and their possible origins.
dates
  • Report date: July 18, 1947
  • Informant interview date: July 7, 1947
people
  • Edwin M. Bailey Jr., 6 Home Court, Stamford, Connecticut (informant/scientist)
  • Renato Fechetti (Bailey's friend, allegedly observed saucers from Milan/Bologna, Italy)
  • Richard Perkin (owner of Perkin-Elmer Company, Glenbrook, Connecticut)
organizations
  • American Cyanamid Research Laboratories, West Main Street, Stamford, Connecticut (Bailey's employer)
  • Physics Division
  • MIT Radiation Laboratory, Cambridge, Massachusetts (Bailey's wartime employer)
  • Manhattan Project (connected to MIT Radiation Laboratory)
  • Perkin-Elmer Company, Glenbrook, Connecticut
locations
  • Stamford, Connecticut
  • Milan, Italy
  • Bologna, Italy
  • Mexico City
  • New Orleans
  • Philadelphia
  • New York
  • Boston
  • Halifax
  • Newfoundland
  • Paris
  • Yugoslavia
  • Albania
people_detailsEdwin M. Bailey Jr.: 30 years of age, scientist, employed at American Cyanamid Research Laboratories in Physics Division; wartime employment at MIT in Radiation Laboratory connected to Manhattan Project; graduate of University of Arizona
observations
  • Topic of flying saucers caused considerable comment and concern among scientists
  • Bailey's personal theory: saucers could be radio-controlled germ bombs or atom bombs circling earth's orbit
  • Could be controlled by radio and directed to land on designated targets
  • Saucers reported in specific geographic pattern forming orbital circle: Mexico City, New Orleans, Philadelphia, New York, Boston, Halifax, Newfoundland, Paris, Milan, Bologna, Yugoslavia, Albania
  • Bailey placed string around globe noting these cities form direct orbit or circle
  • Cities would be in line of any path saucers could be circling
  • Richard Perkin (Perkin-Elmer Company) informed Bailey that company is making large powerful telescope for searching stratosphere for atom bombs
assessments
  • Bailey's theory focused on aerial weapons delivery systems
  • Sightings pattern analyzed for geographic significance
  • Military/industrial involvement suggested (Perkin-Elmer telescope project)
references
  • World War II conclusion mentioned in context of Italian observations
  • Manhattan Project reference (wartime atomic research)

Page 104

View PDF ↗
page104
statusreadable
doc_typeOffice memorandum (continuation/administrative)
classificationunclassified
date1947-07-18
page_descriptionAdministrative routing and received markings for the memorandum regarding Edwin M. Bailey Jr.'s flying saucer theory.
dates
  • Received date: July 23, 1947, 4:26 PM
  • Document date: July 18, 1947
redactions
  • Multiple received stamps showing routing through FBI Atomic Energy Section and Internal Security offices
  • Standard administrative processing stamps

Page 105

View PDF ↗
page105
statusreadable
doc_typeLetter (continuation of memorandum)
classificationunclassified
date1947-07-18
page_descriptionContinuation letter from FBI New Haven office regarding Edwin M. Bailey Jr.'s flying saucer theory and geographic analysis.
datesLetter date: July 18, 1947
people
  • Edwin M. Bailey Jr.
  • Richard Perkin (owner, Perkin-Elmer Company)
organizationsPerkin-Elmer Company, Glenbrook, Connecticut
locationsGlobal geographic distribution of sightings
observations
  • Cities forming direct orbit or circle around earth: Mexico City, New Orleans, Philadelphia, New York, Boston, Halifax, Newfoundland, Paris, Milan, Bologna, Yugoslavia, Albania
  • All mentioned cities form circular pattern that would be more or less in line of any path saucers could be circling
  • Perkin-Elmer Company making large powerful telescope for searching stratosphere for atom bombs
  • Bailey had recently conversed with Richard Perkin about this telescope project
assessments
  • Geographic pattern analysis suggested by informant Bailey
  • Connection made between sighting locations and orbital mechanics
  • Industrial scientific involvement in aerial surveillance technology (telescope development)
referencesPerkin-Elmer Company telescope development for stratospheric scanning

Page 106

View PDF ↗
page106
statusreadable
doc_typeLetter/Communication
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

FBI letter regarding metal fragments observed at West Ridge, New Hampshire. Transmittal document for investigation details and findings.

## Dates

details
  • Date written: July 18, 1947
  • Event date referenced: July 7, 1947

## People

details
  • From Director (FBI)
  • Dean John Bunker (Security Officer, M.I.T., Cambridge, Mass.)
  • Charles Tasker (Retired Vice President, New England Tel. and Tel. Co., West Ridge, N.H.)
  • Professor L.N. [surname redacted] (Metallurgist at M.I.T.)
  • Mr. Parke [surname unclear] (Telephone Company employee)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • M.I.T. (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
  • New England Telephone and Telegraph Company
  • U.S. Department of Justice

## Locations

details
  • West Ridge, New Hampshire
  • Route Two
  • Whitehead Property/Lawn

## Observations

details
  • Metal fragments observed on lawn at West Ridge, N.H.
  • Fragments approximately one-half inches in diameter
  • Burned spots on green lawn approximately two hundred feet in diameter
  • Metallic fragments caused fire (department called)
  • Fragments turned over to Professor Rentges of M.I.T. for analysis
  • Appearance similar to V-2 Bomb lining per Professor L.N. [redacted]

## Assessments

details
  • Scientists treating matter as classified information
  • Metal objects state approximately fourteen inches in diameter, three-sixteenths inch thick, machine tooled
  • Some fragments indicated to be burned and subjected to terrific heat
  • M.I.T. research results to be made available if significant

## References

details
  • Two pages referenced for analysis by scientists
  • Military authorities at Boston have not been notified

## Redactions

details
  • One name redacted (Professor/metallurgist)
  • One name redacted (telephone company official)
  • Two redacted sections regarding appearance comparisons

## Notes

details
  • Document dated Aug 13 1947 (received/processed date)
  • 270 NOV 18 1964 (end page notation - archive reference)

Page 107

View PDF ↗
page107
statusno_content
doc_typeAdministrative
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Receiving stamps and routing notations only. Document processing record sheet.

## Dates

details
  • Received dates: July 18, 1947 (multiple receiving office timestamps)
  • Processing timestamp: July 21, 4:48 PM, 1947

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • U.S. Department of Justice
  • Liaison Section
  • Atomic Energy Commission
  • Federal Security Agency
  • Chemical Laboratory

## Notes

Multiple routing stamps indicating document distributed through FBI Liaison Section, FBI Department of Justice, and various government agencies on July 18-21, 1947. No substantive content visible on page.

Page 108

View PDF ↗
page108
statusreadable
doc_typeLetter continuation/analysis report
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Continuation of West Ridge metal fragments investigation. Details of physical analysis and findings by M.I.T. scientists.

## Locations

details
  • West Ridge, New Hampshire
  • East of railroad tracks (whitehead residence location specified as 700-800 feet east)

## Observations

details
  • Metal fragments sixteenths of an inch thick
  • Machine tooled fragments
  • Some fragments indicated burned and subjected to terrific heat
  • Scientists treating as classified information
  • Fire Chief at West Ridge has fragments in possession

## Assessments

details
  • M.I.T. research results will be made available if significant
  • Opinions of scientists as set forth above suggest possible military interest
  • Military authorities at Boston have not been notified

## People

details
  • Mr. Tasker (West Ridge, N.H.)
  • Dean Bunker (M.I.T.)
  • Fire Chief at West Ridge

## Organizations

detailsM.I.T. (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)

## Notes

details
  • Document demonstrates FBI coordination with academic institutions and local authorities
  • Suggests military interest but no notification yet to Boston military authorities at time of writing

Page 109

View PDF ↗
page109
statusno_content
doc_typeAdministrative
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Receiving/processing stamps and routing indicators only. No substantive content.

## Dates

detailsReceived: July 10, 11:06 PM, 1947

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • U.S. Department of Justice

## Notes

Administrative routing document with minimal readable content beyond date stamps.

Page 110

View PDF ↗
page110
statusreadable
doc_typeLetter - Official FBI correspondence
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Letter from FBI Director John Edgar Hoover to civilian correspondent acknowledging receipt of letter regarding flying disc/saucer observation with enclosed materials.

## Dates

detailsJuly 23, 1947

## People

details
  • John Edgar Hoover (FBI Director)
  • Mrs. John Maurice Clark (addressee)
  • Referenced correspondent (Dr. John Maurice Clark, Columbia University economist)

## Locations

details
  • Westport, Connecticut
  • 41 Wright Street (Clark residence)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • Columbia University
  • U.S. Department of Justice

## References

details
  • Original letter from Mrs. Clark dated July 17, 1947
  • "Letter you mentioned to me" - forwarded as enclosure

## Observations

details
  • Flying saucer/disc observation report received
  • Civilian reported phenomenon to FBI

## Notes

details
  • Communications Section stamp: Mailed July 23, 1947 P.M.
  • FBI Director personally responded to civilian inquiry
  • Document indicates public submission of UFO/flying saucer information to FBI during July 1947 wave

Page 111

View PDF ↗
page111
statusno_content
doc_typeAdministrative
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Document back cover or blank routing page with minimal visible markings.

## Notes

Appears to be blank page or document separator with archive handling marks only.

Page 112

View PDF ↗
page112
statusreadable
doc_typeLetter - Civilian inquiry
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Letter from Mrs. J.M. Clark (civilian) to FBI Director John Edgar Hoover describing receipt of unusual printed material regarding mysterious "saucers" and flying discs. Expresses concern about nature of the materials received.

## Dates

detailsJuly 17, 1947

## People

details
  • Mrs. John Maurice Clark (Mrs. J.M. Clark)
  • Mr. Clark (economist at Columbia University, referenced as author's husband)
  • J. Edgar Hoover (FBI Director, addressee)

## Locations

details
  • Three Cornered Pond, R.F.D. 8 (Clark residence)
  • Augusta, Maine
  • Washington, D.C. (FBI address)
  • Columbia University (New York, implied)

## Organizations

details
  • Columbia University
  • FBI
  • U.S. Department of Justice

## Observations

details
  • Enclosed materials described as unusual/strange printed matter
  • Materials focus on "mysterious saucers" and flying discs
  • Characterized as "crack-pot-ism, advertising or what have you"
  • Author speculates materials may have been mass-mailed ("several thousand")

## Assessment

details
  • Civilian describes materials as strange but potentially valuable to FBI
  • Notes timing as appropriate to "present moment" (July 1947)
  • Submitting for FBI evaluation despite skepticism

## Quotes

details
  • "I retrieved it, thinking it might better go into your wastebasket than ours"
  • "examined by your department en route thither, as of possible value"
  • "as strange a one as has come for some time"

## Notes

details
  • Handwritten signature and markup present
  • Index notation: EX-57
  • Document received and indexed: 2-8594; 15 JUL 28 1947; 29
  • Indicates public sent UFO-related materials to FBI during height of 1947 sightings

Page 113

View PDF ↗
page113
statusreadable
doc_typeLetter - Civilian inquiry/enclosure
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Printed circular/form letter from "The Combined and Amalgamated Committee of Sky-Scanners, Disc Decipherers and New-Product Introducers" - appears to be mass-mailed promotional or speculative material regarding flying discs/saucers.

## Dates

detailsJuly 11, 1947

## Organizations

detailsThe Combined and Amalgamated Committee of Sky-Scanners, Disc Decipherers and New-Product Introducers

## Observations

details
  • Circular asks recipients if they have seen "mysterious Saucers"
  • Poses philosophical questions about meaning of "celestial manifestations"
  • Characterizes phenomena as "harbingers of a better day"
  • Suggests "new and revolutionary advance is coming"
  • Questions if discovery will make lives "brighter, happier, more useful"
  • States "one of these startling discs is on its way to you"
  • Emphasizes "Then the secret will be out"

## Assessment

details
  • Mrs. Clark viewed this as speculative/promotional material (described as "crack-pot-ism, advertising")
  • Marked as ENCLOSURE
  • Marked as 62-13794-29

## Notes

details
  • This appears to be the type of public speculation and UFO-related promotional material circulating during July 1947
  • Evidence of public interest and speculation about flying disc phenomenon
  • FBI received copies via civilian submissions

Page 114

View PDF ↗
page114
statusreadable
doc_typeLetter - FBI response to civilian inquiry
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Letter from FBI Director John Edgar Hoover to civilian (T. Copes) acknowledging receipt of Western Union telegram regarding flying disc information and expressing appreciation for submission.

## Dates

detailsJuly 10, 1947

## People

details
  • T. Copes (Clifside Hall, San Marcos, Texas) - originator of telegram
  • John Edgar Hoover (FBI Director)

## Locations

details
  • San Marcos, Texas
  • Clifside Hall
  • Washington, D.C. (FBI headquarters)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • U.S. Department of Justice
  • Western Union

## Observations

details
  • Civilian submitted Western Union telegram regarding flying disc information
  • Contents described as of "interest to the War Department only"

## Assessment

details
  • FBI Director personally responded to civilian submission
  • Information redirected to War Department as appropriate authority
  • Hoover expressed appreciation for citizen reporting

## Quotes

details
  • "I wish to acknowledge receipt of your Western Union telegram dated July 7, 1947"
  • "Your interest in making this information available to me is greatly appreciated"
  • "contents of your telegram appear to be of interest to the War Department only, I have taken the liberty of making the information furnished by you available to that Department"

## Notes

details
  • Document indicates active FBI coordination with War Department during 1947 UFO wave
  • FBI serving as receipt point for public UFO reports, with routing to appropriate military authorities
  • Note indicates "telegram referred to 'flying discs'"
  • Index code EX-64
  • Communications Section mailed July 14, 1947

Page 115

View PDF ↗
page115
statusno_content
doc_typeAdministrative
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Document routing stamps and processing records. Minimal readable content beyond date stamps and agency markings.

## Dates

detailsProcessing/routing: July 11, 1947 and related administrative dates

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • U.S. Department of Justice
  • Communications Section

## Notes

Appears to be internal FBI routing and filing document with no substantive content visible.

Page 116

View PDF ↗
page116
statusreadable
doc_typeLetter - FBI response to civilian inquiry
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Letter from FBI Director John Edgar Hoover to civilian (J. Woodson) acknowledging receipt of Western Union telegram regarding flying disc observations and redirecting information to War Department.

## Dates

detailsJuly 10, 1947

## People

details
  • J. Woodson (Copes) (sender, Cliffside Hall, San Marcos, Texas)
  • John Edgar Hoover (FBI Director)

## Locations

details
  • San Marcos, Texas
  • Cliffside Hall
  • Washington, D.C.

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • U.S. Department of Justice
  • War Department
  • Western Union

## Observations

details
  • Civilian submitted telegram regarding flying disc information
  • Information directed to War Department as appropriate authority

## Assessment

detailsHoover thanked civilian for submission and assured information would reach War Department

## Quotes

details
  • "Your interest in bringing this information to my attention is greatly appreciated"
  • "contents of your telegram appear to be of interest to the War Department only, I have taken the liberty of turning this information over to that Department"

## References

details
  • Western Union telegram referenced
  • "NOTE: The telegram referred to 'flying discs'"

## Notes

details
  • Index codes: EX-64; 62-8594-20; Recorded 2-8594-30; Indexed
  • Communications Section mailed July 14, 1947 P.M.
  • Similar to page 114, appears to be form response to multiple civilian telegram submissions about flying discs

Page 117

View PDF ↗
page117
statusreadable
doc_typeLetter - FBI response to civilian inquiry
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Letter from FBI Director John Edgar Hoover to civilian correspondent acknowledging receipt of Western Union telegram regarding flying disc observations.

## Dates

detailsJuly 10, 1947

## People

details
  • J. U. Watts, Jr. (Darlington, South Carolina) - sender
  • John Edgar Hoover (FBI Director)

## Locations

details
  • Darlington, South Carolina
  • Washington, D.C.

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • U.S. Department of Justice
  • War Department
  • Western Union

## Observations

details
  • Civilian submitted Western Union telegram dated July 6, 1947
  • Information directed to War Department

## Assessment

detailsFBI appreciation for citizen reporting flying disc observations

## Quotes

details
  • "I wish to acknowledge receipt of your Western Union telegram dated July 6, 1947. Your interest in bringing this information to my attention is greatly appreciated."
  • "contents of your telegram appear to be of interest to the War Department only, I have taken the liberty of turning this information over to that Department"

## References

detailsNOTE: "The telegram referred to 'flying discs'"

## Notes

details
  • Index code: EX-53
  • Communications Section mailed July 14, 1947 P.M.
  • Document indicates third instance of FBI Director personally responding to civilian flying disc reports during July 1947
  • Pattern shows FBI receiving public reports and routing to War Department

Page 118

View PDF ↗
page118
statusreadable
doc_typeFBI Teletype - investigative report
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

FBI Seattle field office teletype message to FBI Director regarding investigation of flying disc sightings reported by Fred Chrisman and Harold A. Dahl from Tacoma, Washington. Reports on investigation findings and witness credibility assessment.

## Dates

details
  • August 14, 1947 (teletype date)
  • Report timeframe: Early August 1947

## People

details
  • Fred Chrisman (witness, Tacoma, Washington)
  • Harold A. Dahl (witness, Tacoma, Washington)
  • Smith (investigator/contact)

## Locations

details
  • Tacoma, Washington
  • Puget Sound area (implied)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI Seattle field office
  • Bureau headquarters
  • Fantasy Magazine, Chicago, Illinois

## Observations

details
  • Dahl reported flying disc sightings
  • Dahl reported contact/interaction with unexplained objects

## Assessment

details
  • Dahl initially denied story to Smith but later admitted he would call it a "hoax" if questioned by authorities
  • Dahl stated he did not want "further trouble over the matter"
  • FBI assessment: probably Chrisman or Dahl made anonymous phone call to build up their story through publicity
  • Witnesses apparently attempting to make story profitable through sale to Fantasy Magazine
  • Decision made not to reinterview Dahl and Chrisman unless ordered differently by Bureau

## References

details
  • "Complete report now en route to Bureau AMSD"
  • Reurtel instant date (reference to prior communication)

## Notes

details
  • WILCOX operator
  • "A AND HOLD PLS" (actionable message, hold for response)
  • Index: 62-8594-32
  • Received AUG 26 1947, 2:52 (date stamp)
  • Shows FBI skepticism toward Tacoma incident and witness credibility concerns

Page 119

View PDF ↗
page119
statusno_content
doc_typeAdministrative
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Document back or routing page with minimal readable content. Archive processing stamps only visible.

## Dates

detailsReceived: AUG 15, 9:31 AM, 1947

## Organizations

details
  • FBI
  • Internal Security division

## Notes

Appears to be continuation of previous teletype or administrative routing document.

Page 120

View PDF ↗
page120
statusno_content
doc_typeAdministrative
classificationUnclassified

Page Description

View PDF ↗

Minimal content visible. Document back page or routing sheet.

## Dates

detailsReceived: AUG 15, 9:31 AM, 1947

## Notes

Archive handling and processing marks only. No substantive content.

Page 121

View PDF ↗
page121
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Active content

## Document Type

FBI Memorandum / Bureau Bulletin

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Page Description

Bureau Bulletin No. 42, dated 7-30-47. Official guidance to FBI field offices on investigation procedures for flying disc sightings.

## Dates

details7-30-47 (bulletin date)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation)
  • Army Air Forces Intelligence

## Key Guidance

details
  • Investigate each reported flying disc sighting to determine if bona fide, imaginary, or prank
  • Notify Bureau immediately by teletype of all reported sightings
  • Follow teletype with detailed letter for reports with merit
  • Army Air Forces assured complete cooperation and provision of recovered discs for FBI examination
  • Information developed should be promptly brought to Army through liaison channels

## Observations

details
  • Army Air Forces possess technical theories about disc construction: discs in odd numbers attached by wire, released from high-altitude aircraft, achieving tremendous speed in descent, arcing to earth
  • Army Air Forces express concern that some sightings might have been made by subversive individuals to create mass hysteria

## Assessments

details
  • Bureau should be alert to investigation requests but control scope carefully
  • Possible motivations for false reports: personal publicity, creating hysteria, pranks

## Redactions

Minor redactions present but content remains clear

Page 122

View PDF ↗
page122
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Address/mailing page only

## Document Type

Envelope/mail routing label

## Page Description

Bureau Bulletin No. 42 routing envelope, "AFTER FIVE DAYS RETURN TO" address label with mailing information.

## Organizations

detailsFBI Washington, D.C.

## People

detailsMr. J. Edgar Hoover (recipient, FBI Director)

## Locations

details
  • 6512 Mission Street, Daly City, California (return address)
  • Washington, D.C. (destination)

## Postal Information

details
  • Postmark: JUL 21 1947, San Francisco
  • 3-cent stamp (U.S. Savings Bonds theme)
  • "BUILD YOUR WISELY, SAVINGS BONDS" postmark message

Page 123

View PDF ↗
page123
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Active content

## Document Type

Personal letter to FBI Director

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Page Description

Letter from civilian correspondent regarding flying saucers sightings. Addresses Director Hoover with personal theories and speculation.

## Dates

detailsJuly 20, 1947 (letter date)

## People

details
  • J. Edgar Hoover (FBI Director, recipient)
  • Kenneth Arnold (referenced as witness to flying saucers)
  • Sender identity: appears to be from Daly City Sheet Metal Works

## Locations

detailsDaly City, California (sender location)

## Organizations

detailsDaly City Sheet Metal Works (sender's business)

## Observations

details
  • Writer speculates about someone manufacturing a flying disc contraption
  • Mentions possibility of remote control operation
  • Suggests such technology could be used "against us"

## Assessments

details
  • Personal speculation and concern from private citizen
  • Reflects public anxiety about flying disc phenomena and potential hostile use

## Redactions

Minor handwritten annotations on document

Page 124

View PDF ↗
page124
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Mostly illegible/heavily redacted

## Document Type

Unknown (appears to be reversed/duplicate page)

## Page Description

Page contains minimal legible content. Text appears faint and largely indecipherable due to page reversal, heavy redaction, or image quality issues.

## Redactions

Extensive redactions or illegibility throughout page

## Notes

Page quality or formatting prevents reliable extraction of specific facts

Page 125

View PDF ↗
page125
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Active content

## Document Type

Memorandum / Office Communication

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Page Description

Memorandum documenting discussion between FBI Special Agent Reynolds and Brigadier General George F. Schulgen, Chief of Requirements Intelligence Branch, Army Air Corps Intelligence, regarding flying discs investigation coordination.

## Dates

details
  • July 9, 1947 (date of discussion)
  • 7/10/47 (memorandum date)

## People

details
  • Special Agent S. W. Reynolds (FBI)
  • Brigadier General George F. Schulgen (Army Air Corps Intelligence, Requirements Intelligence Branch Chief)

## Organizations

details
  • Army Air Corps Intelligence
  • FBI

## Observations

details
  • Army Air Corps attitude: every effort must be undertaken to determine if flying disks are fact and learn about them
  • Air Corps Intelligence utilizing all scientists to ascertain whether such phenomenon could occur
  • Research considering two possibilities: celestial phenomenon or foreign body mechanically devised and controlled
  • All Air Corps installations alerted to run out each reported sighting
  • Air Corps pilot interrogated by General Schulgen, scientists, and psychologist maintained adamant claim of seeing flying disk
  • Possibility exists first sightings were fallacious, prompted by personal publicity or political reasons
  • If true, subsequent sightings might be result of mass hysteria
  • First sightings might have been by Communist sympathizers with view to causing fear of secret Russian weapon

## Assessments

details
  • General Schulgen desirous of having "all the angles covered"
  • Schulgen requested FBI assistance in locating and questioning first witnesses to determine sincerity
  • No War Department or Navy Department research projects could be tied to flying disks
  • General Schulgen assured complete cooperation, offering facilities to identify and run down matter

## References

detailsGeneral Schulgen indicated scientists' findings available at his office

Page 126

View PDF ↗
page126
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Mostly illegible/heavily redacted

## Document Type

Memorandum (verso/reverse side)

## Page Description

Page contains heavily obscured or faint text with significant redactions. Limited legible content due to image reversal or quality issues.

## Organizations

Partial references visible but not clearly legible

## Redactions

Extensive redactions throughout

## Notes

Page quality prevents reliable extraction of specific facts. Appears to be continuation or back side of previous communication.

Page 127

View PDF ↗
page127
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Active content (continuation memorandum)

## Document Type

Office Memorandum / Internal Communication

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Page Description

Memorandum for Mr. Ladd documenting discussion between FBI agent and Colonel L. R. Forney of Military Intelligence Division (MID) regarding flying discs investigation policy.

## People

details
  • Colonel L. R. Forney (MID)
  • Mr. Ladd (FBI recipient)

## Organizations

details
  • Military Intelligence Division (MID)
  • Army
  • FBI

## Assessments

details
  • Colonel Forney: flying disks established as not result of Army or Navy experiments, matter of interest to FBI
  • Colonel Forney opinion: Bureau should accede to General Schulgen's request if possible
  • FBI recommendation against investigation: great bulk of alleged discs reported found have been pranks
  • FBI view: Bureau would not accomplish anything by going into these investigations

## Policy Determination

details
  • Recommendation to decline or limit FBI involvement in flying disc investigations
  • Suggestion to advise Army that Bureau does not believe it should pursue these investigations

## Annotations

details
  • Handwritten note references previous discussion
  • Date notation: 7-15 visible

## Notes

Page includes internal handwritten responses and routing marks

Page 128

View PDF ↗
page128
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Active content

## Document Type

Official letter from FBI Director

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Page Description

Formal response letter from FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover to private citizen George J. Pluskat acknowledging receipt of letter regarding flying discs.

## Dates

details
  • July 14, 1947 (Pluskat's letter date)
  • July 30, 1947 (Hoover's response date)

## People

details
  • George J. Pluskat (correspondent)
  • John Edgar Hoover (FBI Director)

## Locations

details
  • Brooklyn 27, New York (Pluskat address: 907 Seneca Avenue)
  • Washington, D.C. (FBI headquarters)

## Content

details
  • Hoover acknowledges receipt of Pluskat's letter
  • Information reviewed and being maintained as matter of record in FBI files
  • Formal courtesy response

## File References

details
  • File 62-0-34750 (previous correspondence with Pluskat)
  • Note indicates Pluskat previously correspondent with FBI
  • Crime Records Section unable to locate prior file
  • Possibility indicated correspondent might be mental case

## Postal Information

details
  • Mailed July 31, 1947
  • Communications Section routing
  • File date stamp: 58 AUG 13 [1947]

Page 129

View PDF ↗
page129
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Active content

## Document Type

Personal letter to FBI Director

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Page Description

Extensive personal letter from George J. Pluskat to FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover with detailed theories and speculation about flying saucers sightings.

## Dates

detailsJuly 14, 1947 (letter date)

## People

details
  • George J. Pluskat (correspondent, Brooklyn resident)
  • Kenneth Arnold (referenced as flying saucer witness)
  • J. Edgar Hoover (FBI Director, recipient)

## Locations

details
  • Brooklyn, New York (sender)
  • East and West coasts (sightings geography)
  • Midwest references: Mississippi, Missouri, Catskill mountains, East, Blue Ridge, Rocky Mountains, Columbia and Ohio Rivers

## Observations

details
  • Media coverage of flying saucers extensively reported: 27 states, 40 states reporting sightings
  • Objects described as not fluttering or floating like kites but sailing
  • All saucers reported sailing in same direction: West to East
  • Rewards offered but no collectors/recoveries
  • Planes chased saucers but none captured
  • No landings reported, no finders

## Theories

details
  • Possibly optical illusion or mirage
  • Possibility of disinformation planted by unwelcome persons to create confusion
  • When people became too curious, objects disappeared and were replaced by substitutes called "kites"
  • Speculation about remote control homing pigeon-like direction capability
  • Hypothesizes connection to geographic features: water reflection patterns from rivers and mountains affecting observations

## Assessments

details
  • Criticizes treating matter as joke or hoax
  • References boy who cried wolf parable
  • Argues against pooh-poohing the phenomenon
  • Suggests proper authorities should investigate

## Writing Quality

details
  • Long, rambling letter with extensive speculation
  • Multiple theories presented without clear evidence
  • Stream-of-consciousness style with corrections and tangents

Page 130

View PDF ↗
page130
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Active content (continuation)

## Document Type

Continuation of personal letter

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Page Description

Continuation of George J. Pluskat's letter to FBI Director Hoover regarding flying saucers theories.

## Signature

detailsGeorge J. Pluskat (handwritten signature visible)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI (addressed)
  • Unidentified government authorities (referenced)

## File References

details
  • Recording/indexing notations visible
  • Date stamps: 50 SEP 30 1947, file number references

## Postal Information

details
  • Recorded and indexed per FBI procedures
  • Communications section routing

## Notes

details
  • Handwritten signature indicates completion of letter
  • Standard FBI file processing and indexing procedures applied

Page 131

View PDF ↗
page131
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Active content

## Document Type

Memorandum for Director

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Page Description

Memorandum dated 7/23/47 for D. M. Ladd regarding Bureau Bulletin for field handling of flying discs matters.

## Dates

details7/23/47 (memorandum date)

## Organizations

detailsFBI

## Content

Recommendation section notes attached Bureau Bulletin to Field for assistance in handling flying discs matter.

## References

detailsAttachment: Bureau Bulletin (referenced but not fully detailed on this page)

## Notes

details
  • Brief administrative memorandum
  • References attachment of guidance materials for field offices

Page 132

View PDF ↗
page132
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Active content

## Document Type

Office Memorandum / Internal Communication

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Page Description

Detailed memorandum from E.G. Fitch to D.M. Ladd dated 7/21/47 regarding FBI cooperation with Army Air Corps Intelligence on flying discs investigation.

## Dates

details
  • July 9, 1947 (Reynolds-Schulgen discussion date)
  • July 10, 1947 (previous memo reference)
  • 7/21/47 (this memo date)

## People

details
  • Special Agent W. Reynolds (FBI)
  • Brigadier General George F. Schulgen (Army Air Corps Intelligence)
  • E.G. Fitch (memorandum author)
  • D.M. Ladd (memorandum recipient)
  • Director/Mr. Hoover (referenced)

## Organizations

details
  • Army Air Corps Intelligence
  • War Department
  • Navy Department
  • FBI Field Offices

## Observations

details
  • General Schulgen: every effort must be undertaken to determine if flying disks fact
  • Air Corps Intelligence utilizing all scientists
  • Research investigating both celestial phenomenon and foreign mechanical body theories
  • All Air Corps installations alerted to run out reported sightings
  • Air Corps pilot interrogated by Schulgen, scientists, and psychologist maintained adamant claim of flying disk sighting
  • Possibility exists first sightings were fallacious, prompted by personal publicity or political reasons
  • Subsequent sightings might result from mass hysteria
  • First sightings might have been by Communist sympathizers creating fear of secret Russian weapon

## Assessments

details
  • Director's notation: demand for full access to recovered discs before cooperating
  • Director cited instance where Army grabbed disc in Louisiana and prevented FBI examination
  • General Schulgen assured complete cooperation, would issue field instructions for FBI cooperation
  • All recovered discs to be made available for FBI examination
  • General Schulgen will periodically make scientists' study results available to Bureau
  • Decrease in reported sightings might be due to loss of publicity value

## References

details
  • General Schulgen indicated no War Department or Navy Department research projects tied to flying disks
  • Field Offices maintain close liaison with Army Intelligence Divisions

## File Processing

detailsCopies destroyed notation: 27 0 NOV 18 1964

Page 133

View PDF ↗
page133
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Active content

## Document Type

Office Memorandum / Informant Report

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Page Description

Memorandum from SAC El Paso to FBI Director regarding informant Mrs. Gwynne M. Merchant and her reports of flying objects in New Mexico air.

## Dates

details
  • July 15, 1947 (Merchant's visit to resident agency)
  • July 22, 1947 (memo date)

## People

details
  • Mrs. Gwynne M. Merchant (informant)
  • Frank Burtram (Forest Ranger, witness)
  • Walter Winchell (columnist, recipient of promised story)
  • Sidney Newburger (AEC Chief of Security and Intelligence)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI (Santa Fe resident agency)
  • Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)
  • Los Alamos (facility)

## Locations

details
  • Santa Fe, New Mexico (FBI resident agency)
  • Canjillon, New Mexico (Forest Ranger work location)
  • Park View, New Mexico
  • Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico

## Observations

details
  • Mrs. Merchant reported receiving information about flying objects passing through air
  • Light objects seen at night allegedly followed by explosions
  • Frank Burtram (Forest Ranger near Canjillon) reported one such object
  • Additional sightings claimed near Park View and Tierra Amarilla

## Assessments

details
  • Mrs. Merchant claims to be student of radio waves and ray forms
  • Contends objects may be missiles similar to those appearing over Sweden
  • Discussed theories with AEC officials
  • Wrote to Secretary of War and other government officials
  • AEC considers Mrs. Merchant unreliable and possibly not well balanced mentally
  • Merchant mentioned struck by lightning as child

## Activities

details
  • Mrs. Merchant written to Walter Winchell promising story on flying discs
  • Previous correspondence with multiple government officials

## File References

details
  • File 62-0-3594c
  • Recording/indexing notation: 62-0-83894-37
  • Date stamp: AUG 3 1947
  • Previous file reference: 8/3/31

Page 134

View PDF ↗
page134
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Mostly illegible/blank

## Document Type

Unknown/blank page

## Page Description

Page appears mostly blank or illegible with heavy redaction or poor image quality. Minimal extractable content visible.

## Redactions

Extensive or complete page obscuration

## Notes

Page quality or formatting prevents reliable extraction of specific facts

Page 135

View PDF ↗
page135
documentFBI Case File 62-HQ-83894 Section 1

## Status

Active content

## Document Type

Office Memorandum / Internal Policy Guidance

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Page Description

Memorandum from K.C. Howe to D.M. Ladd dated July 7, 1947 regarding FBI jurisdictional policy on flying discs reports.

## Dates

details
  • July 7, 1947 (memo date)
  • 9:50 PM (time noted)

## People

details
  • K.C. Howe (FBI, memorandum author)
  • D.M. Ladd (FBI, recipient)
  • SAC Weeks (Special Agent in Charge, New Orleans)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI (New Orleans office)
  • G-2 (Army Intelligence)

## Locations

detailsNew Orleans

## Observations

details
  • SAC Weeks telephoned from New Orleans regarding flying discs matter
  • Weeks wanted to know Bureau policy on reports concerning flying discs
  • Objects reported "found"

## Policy Determination

details
  • Howe instructed Weeks: unless advised to contrary, allow G-2 to handle particular case at hand
  • FBI should NOT take jurisdiction
  • Bureau to be kept advised of developments
  • Bureau interested in copies of photographs G-2 would make of object found
  • FBI should not allow itself to be positioned where investigative responsibility would fall on Bureau

## Actions

details
  • Weeks instructed to allow G-2 primary handling
  • Conditional: Howe to call back immediately if specific action instructions needed
  • Howe indicated previous telephone discussion with superior regarding foregoing matter

## Policy Basis

details
  • Jurisdictional boundaries between FBI and G-2 (Army Intelligence)
  • Bureau avoiding assumption of investigative responsibility for flying disc matters

Page 136

View PDF ↗
statuscomplete
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number136

# Page 136 Extraction

**Status:** Complete

**Doc Type:** Memorandum / Interview Report

**Classification:** Declassified (NND 90986)

**Dates:**

details
  • Document date: 7 July 1947
  • Incident date: 30 June 1947

**People:**

details
  • Lt William G. McGinty, USN, 195803, P-80 Student
  • Captain Malcolm G. Armstrong, O-734168, Instructor Single Engine
  • Lt E. B. Armstrong (brother of Captain Armstrong)

**Organizations:**

details
  • Williams Field, Chandler, Arizona (USAF)
  • 10th AAF (Army Air Forces)
  • Brooks AAF, Texas
  • CIC/AAF (Counter Intelligence Corps)

**Locations:**

details
  • Grand Canyon, Arizona
  • Williams Field, Arizona
  • Hq, 10th AAF, Brooks AAF, Texas
  • Lake Mead, Nevada
  • Point Hueneme, California (N.A.M.T.C.)

**Observations:**

*McGinty Sighting (30 June 1947, ~0910 MST):*

details
  • Two round objects moving at "inconceivable speeds" traveling straight down
  • Witness was flying at 25,000 feet in P-80 aircraft heading south toward Williams Field
  • Objects appeared circular, possible light gray in color
  • Estimated diameter approximately eight feet
  • Objects appeared to follow seconds apart
  • Pilot's reaction: turned away from objects
  • Estimated impact point: approximately 25 miles south of South Rim of Grand Canyon

*Armstrong Sighting (via hearsay):*

details
  • Captain Armstrong's brother (Lt E. B. Armstrong) observed formation of unexplainable objects
  • Location vicinity: Lake Mead, Nevada
  • Altitude: approximately 10,000 feet
  • Direction: heading south

**Assessments:**

detailsNo assessment provided in this memorandum

**References:**

detailsAuthority: NND 90986

**Redactions:** None

**Notes:**

details
  • McGinty permanent address given as N.A.M.T.C., Point Hueneme, Calif
  • Armstrong's brother sighting relayed secondhand through Captain Armstrong
  • Limited information available on Armstrong brother's sighting

Page 137

View PDF ↗
statuscomplete
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number137

# Page 137 Extraction

**Status:** Complete

**Doc Type:** Cover Memorandum / Transmittal Letter

**Classification:** Declassified

**Dates:**

detailsDate: 1 August 1947

**People:**

details
  • John Edgar Hoover, Director - Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • Colonel L. R. Forney, Chief, Security Group
  • Mrs. Arthur Douglas Anderson

**Organizations:**

details
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
  • War Department General Staff
  • The Pentagon

**Locations:**

detailsWashington 25, D. C.

**Observations:**

details
  • Letter references "flying saucers" subject matter
  • Copies of letter received from Mrs. Anderson concerning "flying saucers"

**Assessments:**

detailsDocument indicates FBI Director forwarding correspondence regarding flying saucer reports to military intelligence

**References:**

detailsAttachment: Letter from Mrs. Arthur Douglas Anderson

**Redactions:** None visible

**Quotes:**

detailsSubject line: "FLYING SAUCERS"

**Notes:**

details
  • This is a transmittal memorandum from FBI Director Hoover to War Department
  • Document acknowledges receipt and distribution of Mrs. Anderson's letter regarding flying saucers
  • Marked as "PERSONAL AND [CLASSIFIED]"

Page 138

View PDF ↗
statusno_content
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number138

# Page 138 Extraction

**Status:** No content - Page essentially blank/unreadable

**Doc Type:** Unknown

**Classification:** Unknown

**Page Description:** Appears to be a mostly blank page with minimal legible text and heavy redactions/damage. Only faint handwritten marks visible.

**Observations:** No substantive content extractable from this page.

Page 139

View PDF ↗
statuscomplete
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number139

# Page 139 Extraction

**Status:** Complete

**Doc Type:** FBI Teletype

**Classification:** Declassified

**Dates:**

details
  • Date sent: 6 August 1947, 8-50 PM
  • Incident reference: June 14, 1947 (Bakersfield sighting)
  • Incident reference: July 27, 1947 (Portland interviews)
  • Incident reference: August 1, 1947 (plane crash)

**People:**

details
  • Leavveritt G. Richards, Aviation Editor, The Oregonian
  • Captain William L. Davidson, Fourth AAF Headquarters, San Francisco
  • Lt. Frank M. Brown, Fourth AAF Headquarters, San Francisco
  • Dick Rankin, experienced pilot
  • Kenneth Arnold, businessman, Boise, Idaho (first disc reporter, June 14)
  • Captain E. J. Smith, United Airlines
  • Co-pilot Ralph Stevens, United Airlines
  • Dave Johnson, Aviation Editor, Idaho Statesman
  • Major General Twining, Wright Field, Ohio
  • Mr. Ladd, FBI headquarters

**Organizations:**

details
  • FBI Portland
  • Fourth AAF Headquarters, San Francisco
  • Wright Field, Ohio
  • United Airlines
  • The Oregonian (newspaper)
  • FBI Director and SACs (Seattle, San Francisco)

**Locations:**

details
  • Portland, Oregon (primary location)
  • Bakersfield, California
  • Wright Field, Ohio
  • Albuquerque, New Mexico (phone contact point)
  • Kelso, Washington (plane crash)
  • San Francisco, California

**Observations:**

*Bakersfield Sighting (June 14, 1947):*

details
  • Dick Rankin, experienced pilot, reported formation of ten flying discs
  • Location: Over Bakersfield, California

*Portland Interviews (July 27, 1947):*

details
  • Captain Davidson and Lt. Brown from Fourth AAF Headquarters in Portland
  • Interviewed Dick Rankin (experienced pilot with June 14 sighting report)
  • Interviewed four additional experienced pilots:
  • - Kenneth Arnold (businessman, Boise, Idaho)
  • - Captain E. J. Smith and Co-pilot Ralph Stevens (United Airlines)
  • - Dave Johnson (Aviation Editor, Idaho Statesman)

*AAF Aircraft Crash (August 1, 1947):*

details
  • Plane carrying Captain Davidson and Lt. Brown crashed at Kelso, Washington
  • Both officers killed

**Assessments:**

details
  • Richards formed impression that AAF instituted investigation to "wash out" disc reports
  • Richards stated disc reports are "DEFINITELY NOT OF AAF ORIGIN"

**References:**

details
  • Teletype routing: FBI Portland to Director and SACs Seattle/San Francisco
  • Subject: "FLYING DISCS, SM DASH X"

**Redactions:** Some portions appear edited or redacted

**Quotes:**

details
  • "wash out the disc reports"
  • "they are DEFINITELY NOT OF AAF ORIGIN"

**Notes:**

details
  • Major General Twining at Wright Field contacted by Richards via phone at Albuquerque
  • Investigation described as response to newspaper reports and conference of Army officials in Portland
  • Significant detail: two AAF investigators died in plane crash while investigating flying disc reports

Page 140

View PDF ↗
statuscomplete
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number140

# Page 140 Extraction

**Status:** Complete

**Doc Type:** FBI Office Memorandum

**Classification:** Declassified

**Dates:**

detailsDate: 6 August 1947

**People:**

details
  • D. M. Ladd, Recipient
  • E. G. Fitch, Author (FBI)
  • Special Agent S. W. Reynolds, Liaison Section
  • Lieutenant Colonel C. P. Martin, Army Air Forces Intelligence
  • Major General Twining (referenced)
  • Kenneth Arnold (flying saucer first reporter)

**Organizations:**

details
  • Army Air Forces Intelligence/Headquarters
  • 4th Air Force Headquarters, Hamilton Field, San Francisco
  • FBI Liaison Section
  • United States Government

**Locations:**

details
  • Portland, Oregon
  • Los Angeles, California
  • Hamilton Field, San Francisco
  • Wright Field, Ohio
  • Albuquerque, New Mexico (phone contact)

**Observations:**

*Article in West Coast Newspapers:*

detailsReported an airplane carrying "recovered flying saucers" crashed en route from Portland, Oregon to Los Angeles, California

*AAF Information Received:*

details
  • CIC (Counter Intelligence Corps) Agent of 4th Air Force Headquarters, Hamilton Field, killed in airplane crash
  • Agent was on "top secret mission"
  • Believed to be either en route to or from interview with Kenneth Arnold
  • Arnold identified as one of the first individuals to see flying saucers

*AAF Assessment:*

details
  • Colonel Martin stated AAF has no additional information and will receive none until report is received from 4th Air Force
  • Colonel Martin suggested San Francisco Field Office contact Colonel Springer at Headquarters 4th Air Force, Hamilton Field for details

**Assessments:**

details
  • Colonel Martin believed no flying saucers have been recovered
  • Concluded effort was merely attempt to reinterview individual (Arnold) who previously reported seeing flying saucers

**References:**

details
  • Article appeared in West Coast newspapers
  • Referenced contact with Kenneth Arnold regarding flying saucer sightings

**Redactions:** Partial redactions in middle section of memorandum

**Quotes:**

details
  • "top secret mission"
  • "no flying saucers have been recovered but that it was merely an attempt to reinterview an individual who previously had reported seeing one of the flying saucers"

**Notes:**

details
  • This memorandum represents FBI coordination with Army Air Forces Intelligence
  • CIC Agent death appears related to flying saucer investigation
  • Colonel Martin's assessment was skeptical of recovered disc claims

Page 141

View PDF ↗
statusno_content
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number141

# Page 141 Extraction

**Status:** No content - Page blank/unreadable

**Doc Type:** Unknown

**Classification:** Unknown

**Page Description:** Page appears to be mostly blank with minimal legible text. Possible reverse side of previous document or blank filler page.

**Observations:** No substantive content extractable.

Page 142

View PDF ↗
statuscomplete
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number142

# Page 142 Extraction

**Status:** Complete

**Doc Type:** FBI Teletype (continuation/follow-up)

**Classification:** Declassified

**Dates:**

detailsReceived date: August 6, 1947, 1:00 AM

**Page Description:**

This page contains routing and dateline information for an FBI teletype communication received at 1:00 AM on August 6, 1947.

**Organizations:**

details
  • FBI Portland
  • FBI offices (routing shown)

**Observations:**

details
  • Timestamp stamp showing "RECEIVED TELETYPE UNIT" with date "Aug 6 1 00 AM '47"
  • Partial routing information visible

**Redactions:** Heavy fading/deterioration makes most text illegible

**Notes:**

details
  • This appears to be the header/routing section of a teletype document
  • Likely continuation of August 6, 1947 FBI communications regarding flying disc reports

Page 143

View PDF ↗
statuscomplete
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number143

# Page 143 Extraction

**Status:** Complete

**Doc Type:** FBI Teletype

**Classification:** Declassified

**Dates:**

detailsDate: 6 August 1947, 8-5-47, 8-50 PM

**People:**

details
  • Leavveritt G. Richards, Aviation Editor, The Oregonian
  • Captain William L. Davidson, Fourth AAF Headquarters, San Francisco
  • Lt. Frank M. Brown, Fourth AAF Headquarters, San Francisco
  • Dick Rankin, experienced pilot
  • Kenneth Arnold, businessman, Boise, Idaho
  • Captain E. J. Smith, United Airlines
  • Co-pilot Ralph Stevens, United Airlines
  • Dave Johnson, Aviation Editor, Idaho Statesman
  • Major General Twining, Wright Field, Ohio
  • Mr. Ladd, FBI

**Organizations:**

details
  • FBI Portland (sending office)
  • FBI Director
  • FBI SACs (Seattle and San Francisco)
  • Fourth AAF Headquarters, San Francisco
  • Wright Field, Ohio
  • United Airlines
  • The Oregonian (newspaper)

**Locations:**

details
  • Portland, Oregon
  • Bakersfield, California
  • Wright Field, Ohio
  • Albuquerque, New Mexico
  • Kelso, Washington
  • San Francisco, California

**Observations:**

*Background:*

details
  • Leavveritt G. Richards (Aviation Editor, The Oregonian) initiated investigation request
  • Two AAF officers (Captain Davidson and Lt. Brown) were in Portland July 27 conducting interviews

*Interviewed Parties:*

details
  • Dick Rankin (experienced pilot who reported June 14 formation of ten discs over Bakersfield)
  • Four other experienced first-time disc reporters:
  • - Kenneth Arnold (businessman, Boise, Idaho)
  • - Captain E. J. Smith (United Airlines)
  • - Co-pilot Ralph Stevens (United Airlines)
  • - Dave Johnson (Aviation Editor, Idaho Statesman)

*AAF Investigation:*

details
  • Richards contacted Major General Twining at Wright Field, Ohio by phone at Albuquerque
  • Richards gained impression that AAF instituted investigation to "wash out the disc reports"
  • Richards stated they are "DEFINITELY NOT OF AAF ORIGIN"

*Plane Crash:*

details
  • August 1, 1947: Plane carrying Davidson and Brown crashed at Kelso, Washington
  • Both officers killed

**Assessments:**

details
  • AAF impression: Discs are definitely not of AAF origin
  • Investigation purpose: To "wash out" (debunk/eliminate) disc reports

**References:**

details
  • Subject: "FLYING DISCS, SM DASH X"
  • Teletype from FBI Portland to Director and SACs Seattle/San Francisco

**Redactions:** Multiple partial redactions visible throughout document

**Quotes:**

details
  • "they are DEFINITELY NOT OF AAF ORIGIN"
  • "wash out the disc reports"

**Notes:**

details
  • This is essentially the cleaned/readable version of the same teletype as page 139
  • Two Army officers investigating flying saucers died in plane crash on August 1, 1947
  • Multiple credible witnesses interviewed including experienced pilots and aviation editors

Page 144

View PDF ↗
statusno_content
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number144

# Page 144 Extraction

**Status:** No content - Page mostly blank

**Doc Type:** Unknown

**Classification:** Unknown

**Page Description:** Page appears to be mostly blank with minimal legible text. Likely reverse side of another document or blank section.

**Observations:** No substantive content extractable.

Page 145

View PDF ↗
statuscomplete
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number145

# Page 145 Extraction

**Status:** Complete

**Doc Type:** Personal Correspondence / Citizen Report

**Classification:** Declassified

**Dates:**

details
  • Date written: Not explicitly stated, but document is undated
  • Postmark/Related: Waukesha, Wisconsin connection

**People:**

details
  • Robert J. Broka, author/witness
  • Address: 469 N. Washington Ave., Waukesha, Wisconsin
  • Unidentified buddy (witness #2)
  • Unidentified friend of buddy (witness #3)

**Organizations:**

detailsFederal Bureau of Investigation (recipient)

**Locations:**

details
  • Germany (incident location)
  • Habberbishopsheim, Germany (approximately 120 miles northwest of this location)
  • Waukesha, Wisconsin (sender's address)

**Observations:**

*Sighting in Germany (Post-WWII):*

details
  • Three men on pass driving on back roads
  • Witness sighted strange-looking object in sky
  • Distance: 8-10 miles to front
  • Altitude: Approximately 5,000 feet
  • Object rapidly approached, descending slowly
  • At approximately 1 mile away, object stopped horizontal motion but continued slow oscillating descent
  • Descent pattern: Similar to descending parachute
  • Then suddenly: Object dropped in spiral motion
  • Witness drove to location of drop (took approximately 5 minutes)
  • Result: Found nothing at impact location
  • After 10 minutes of cruising area: Darkness prevented continued search

*Witnesses:*

details
  • Author (Robert Broka) - direct observer, clear sighting
  • Two companions - may not have seen it clearly due to quick occurrence
  • Author described sighting vividly to companions, making them as excited as he was

**Assessments:**

details
  • Author's first impression: Could be a cloud
  • But: Object was traveling at right angle to wind direction (not consistent with cloud movement)
  • Author willing to swear to authenticity and shape of object

**References:**

details
  • Addressee: Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • Sender: Robert J. Broka

**Redactions:** None visible

**Quotes:**

details
  • "it was traveling at right angle to the wind"
  • "I will swear to the authenticity of this and to the shape of the object"

**Notes:**

details
  • Letter reports post-WWII incident in Germany
  • Author specifically mentions reports of disc-shaped aircraft in western U.S. regions as reason for submitting this report
  • Considers incident may be of "international scope"
  • Provides specific German location reference
  • Offers to provide sworn testimony if necessary

Page 146

View PDF ↗
statusno_content
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number146

# Page 146 Extraction

**Status:** No content - Page mostly blank/unreadable

**Doc Type:** Unknown

**Classification:** Unknown

**Page Description:** Page appears heavily faded with minimal legible content. Possible reverse side of correspondence or blank section.

**Observations:** No substantive content extractable.

Page 147

View PDF ↗
statuscomplete
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number147

# Page 147 Extraction

**Status:** Complete

**Doc Type:** FBI Invoice / Shipping Document

**Classification:** Declassified

**Dates:**

details
  • Date: 9-10-47 (September 10, 1947)
  • Mailed: 7 September 1947 (registered)

**People:**

details
  • Mrs. J. H. Mixon, consignee
  • Recipients listed: Mr. Harbo, Mr. Conrad, Mr. Downing, Mr. Sizoo, Mr. Baughman

**Organizations:**

detailsFederal Bureau of Investigation, Washington, D.C.

**Locations:**

details
  • Route 1, Box 30
  • Estill, South Carolina

**Observations:**

*Document Type:*

details
  • Invoice of Contents shipping form
  • Case Reference: Flying Saucer

*Contents:*

detailsPowered Soap Stone (primary item listed)

*Shipping Information:*

details
  • Consigned to: Mrs. J. H. Mixon
  • Destination: Route 1, Box 30, Estill, South Carolina
  • Registration number: 499225
  • Mailing date: 7 September 1947 (via registered mail)

*Internal Distribution:*

details
  • Mr. Harbo, 7641
  • Mr. Conrad, 7142
  • Mr. Downing, 7632
  • Mr. Sizoo, 7601
  • Mr. Baughman, 7121

**Assessments:** None provided

**References:**

details
  • FBI form L-26
  • Case References: "Flying Saucer"

**Redactions:** None visible

**Notes:**

details
  • This document references a "Flying Saucer" case but actual contents listed is "Powered Soap Stone"
  • The description "Powered Soap Stone" as purported flying saucer material is unusual
  • Shipping to civilian address in Estill, South Carolina
  • September 1947 date places this during peak of early flying saucer reports
  • Standard FBI shipping procedures applied
  • Document contains shipping/administrative instructions at bottom

Page 148

View PDF ↗
statusno_content
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number148

# Page 148 Extraction

**Status:** No content - Page blank/unreadable

**Doc Type:** Unknown

**Classification:** Unknown

**Page Description:** Page appears to be blank or nearly entirely faded/redacted. Minimal legible content.

**Observations:** No substantive content extractable.

Page 149

View PDF ↗
statusno_content
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number149

# Page 149 Extraction

**Status:** No content - Page mostly blank/deteriorated

**Doc Type:** Unknown

**Classification:** Unknown

**Page Description:** Page is heavily deteriorated with minimal legible content. Contains mostly faded text and markings that cannot be reliably read.

**Observations:** No substantive content extractable.

Page 150

View PDF ↗
statusno_content
document_id65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1
page_number150

# Page 150 Extraction

**Status:** No content - Page blank/unreadable

**Doc Type:** Unknown

**Classification:** Unknown

**Page Description:** Page appears nearly entirely blank or heavily deteriorated. Minimal legible content visible.

**Observations:** No substantive content extractable.

Page 151

View PDF ↗
page151
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 151 - FBI Hoover Letter on Flying Discs

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

FBI official correspondence / memorandum

## Classification

Unclassified (declassified)

## Dates

detailsAugust 5, 1947 (letter date)

## People

details
  • John Edgar Hoover, Director, Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • Robert J. Sroka (subject of letter)
  • Colonel L. R. Forney, Chief, Security Group

## Organizations

details
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
  • War Department General Staff
  • The Pentagon

## References

detailsBureau Bulletin No. 42

## Observations

Hoover's letter transmitting copies of a letter from Robert J. Sroka concerning "flying discs" to the Director of Intelligence at the War Department General Staff.

## Quotes

"There are attached hereto copies of a letter received from the above-captioned individual concerning 'flying discs.'"

"Mr. Sroka's letter has been acknowledged and he has been advised that copies of his letter have been furnished to you for your consideration."

Page 152

View PDF ↗
page152
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 152

## Status

no_content

Reverse/blank side of prior letter.

Page 153

View PDF ↗
page153
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 153 - FBI Teletype on Flying Discs/Rayou/Lane

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

FBI teletype communication

## Classification

Unclassified

## Dates

detailsAugust 7, 1947 (transmission date)

## Organizations

details
  • FBI Communications Section
  • FBI Detroit Office
  • Army Air Force Intelligence

## Instructions

Message directs that material concerning flying discs should not be forwarded to FBI Laboratory for examination but should be turned over to the Army Air Force Intelligence.

## Quote

"REURTEL AUGUST 5 MATERIAL SHOULD NOT BE FORWARDED TO FBI LABORATORY FOR EXAMINATION BUT SHOULD BE TURNED OVER TO THE ARMY AIRFORCE INTELLIGENCE."

## Signatures/Officials

detailsHoover (signature)

Page 154

View PDF ↗
page154
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 154

## Status

no_content

Routing/distribution page with minimal text, mostly illegible.

Page 155

View PDF ↗
page155
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 155 - FBI Teletype on Hackensack, NJ Flying Disc Sighting

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

FBI teletype

## Classification

Unclassified

## Dates

details
  • August 4, 1947 (transmission: 8-4-47 5:36 PM EDST)
  • August 3, 1947 (sighting date: evening)

## Locations

detailsHackensack, New Jersey

## People

details
  • Charles Casella Jr., age 20, 287 Euclid Avenue, Hackensack, NJ (witness)
  • William Truex, US Army, Fort Dix, NJ (witness)

## Observations

Flying disc sighted from ground on late afternoon August 3. Object described as approximately 200 yards away, in air, revolving slowly, moving rapidly. Neither a kite nor a balloon per witness. Witness telephoned information to Hackensack Police Department.

## Actions

Inquiry being made; Bureau will be kept advised.

## Quotes

"FLYING DISC REPORTED AT HACKENSACK, NJ AUGUST THREE, NINETEEN FORTY SEVEN"

"CASELLA CLAIMED IT WAS TWO HUNDRED YARDS, IN AIR, REVOLVING SLOWLY, MOVING RAPIDLY, AND NEITHER A KITE NOR A BALLOON"

Page 156

View PDF ↗
page156
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 156

## Status

no_content

Routing/stamp page with minimal legible content.

Page 157

View PDF ↗
page157
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 157 - Office Memorandum on Billy Currentine Flying Disc Photograph

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Office memorandum (Standard Form No. 64)

## Classification

Unclassified

## Dates

details
  • August 8, 1947 (memorandum date)
  • July 9, 1947 (newspaper clipping date)
  • July 8, 1947 (sighting/photography date)

## Locations

detailsNorfolk, Virginia (410 West 14th Street, third floor apartment)

## People

details
  • Billy Currentine, Norfolk school boy, photographer
  • Thomas J. Connor, Special Agent (A), FBI
  • Mr. Brown, Photo Craftsman Service
  • International News Service

## Organizations

details
  • Bureau (FBI)
  • Photo Craftsman Service
  • International News Service
  • Norfolk Ledger-Dispatch

## Observations

Large black object moving rapidly through space from southwest to northeast direction, followed by two smaller objects in same direction. Objects appeared to move at very fast speed, much faster than airplane speed. Objects appeared extremely high, above clouds. White mist followed each of three objects. Witness unable to state what black objects represented but admitted they could have been large balloons. Photograph taken with small camera. Weather was hazy and somewhat cloudy with slight breeze from southwest in direction of northeast (direction of object travel).

## People/Interviews

details
  • Billy Currentine interviewed August 8, 1947 by Special Agent Thomas J. Connor
  • Original negative given to Mr. Brown of Photo Craftsman Service
  • International News Service received negative
  • Billy had agreement with Mr. Brown for equal profit sharing from commercial use

## Details

details
  • Sitting on front porch around noontime July 8, 1947
  • Had read newspaper articles about flying discs
  • Decided to sit on porch hoping to see and photograph one
  • Objects were at great distance, not necessary to raise head to see them from porch
  • Immediately turned on camera when noticed objects
  • Estimated 20-30 seconds for photograph
  • Objects almost directly over apartment when photographed
  • Necessary to stoop and look up almost perpendicular to obtain photograph
  • Porch railing visible in newspaper clipping
  • Day was hazy, somewhat cloudy with slight breeze blowing from southwest

## Assessments

No further investigation conducted as Army authorities in Tidewater Area of Virginia are cognizant of information.

## Redactions

None noted

## References

detailsBureau Bulletin No. 42, dated July 30, 1947, Series 1947

Page 158

View PDF ↗
page158
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 158 - Continuation of Billy Currentine Case

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Office memorandum continuation

## Observations (continued from page 157)

Camera estimated to take 20-30 seconds. Discs almost directly over apartment when photographed. Weather on day of photograph was hazy and somewhat cloudy with slight breeze blowing from southwest in general direction of northeast, same direction traveled by black image photographed.

## Actions

Inasmuch as Army authorities in Tidewater Area of Virginia are cognizant of above information, no further investigation will be conducted by this office in this matter.

## Enclosures

Referenced enclosure mentioned

## References

File reference62-182

Page 159

View PDF ↗
page159
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 159 - Newspaper Clipping: "Flying Disc 'Bigger Than Automobile' Photographed"

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Newspaper clipping from Norfolk Ledger-Dispatch

## Dates

detailsJuly 9, 1947 (publication date)

## Locations

details
  • Norfolk, Virginia
  • 410 West Fourteenth Street

## People

details
  • Bill (Billy) Turrenline, 13-year-old photographer
  • George Herbert (reporter)

## Observations

Flying disc described as "lots bigger than an automobile." Object described as "sort of rounded, more oval than disc-like" and "wobbled" in northeastward flight while traveling very rapidly (about 600 miles per hour estimated). Color: "gray, almost black" and looked like "burned crisp." Followed by two smaller red objects. All moving about 600 miles per hour. Estimated altitude about 3,000 feet, just below clouds. Objects trailed dust. No sound made by objects.

## Details

details
  • Took picture from porch of home at 410 West Fourteenth Street between 11 o'clock and noon Tuesday
  • Used old camera with shutter set at 1/100th of a second
  • Flying football-like object came from southwest
  • Wobbled like football in flight
  • Two smaller ones followed
  • Objects looked like "pictures of balls" according to witness
  • Photo experts examined negative and pronounced work excellent despite limitations
  • Photo experts convinced boy did fine job with old camera
  • Film quality issue was kind of film (didn't bring out enough detail) but this wasn't really a flaw
  • Boy's photograph with comparison afforded by porch rail and trees was best picture reproduced since discs first reported

## Quotes

"I don't see why they call them flying saucers"

"They looked like pictures of balls"

"until I noticed all the hullabaloo in the papers"

Page 160

View PDF ↗
page160
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 160 - "The Flying Roll" Memorandum on UAP/Flying Discs

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Memorandum of importance / civilian correspondence

## Classification

Unclassified

## Dates

detailsJuly 8, 1947 (San Diego, California date)

## Locations

details
  • San Diego, California
  • 3615 Alexia Place

## People

detailsN. Meade Layne (author, address: 3615 Alexia Place, San Diego, California)

## Organizations

details"The Round Robin" (seems to be an organization or discussion group)

## Recipients

details
  • Scientists of distinction
  • Aeronautical authorities
  • Military authorities
  • Public officials
  • Publications

## Observations/Claims

This is an esoteric/speculative document making extraordinary claims about flying discs. Key claims include:

1. Part of disks carry crews, others are under remote control

2. Mission is peaceful; visitors contemplate settling on this planet

3. Visitors are human-like but much larger in size

4. They are NOT excarnate earth people but come from their own world

5. They do NOT come from any "planet" but from an "etheric planet" which interpenetrates with our own and is not perceptible to us

6. Bodies of visitors and craft automatically "materialize" on entering vibratry rate of our dense matter

7. Disks possess radiant energy/ray which will easily disintegrate attacking ship; they can reenter the etheric at will

8. Region from which they come is NOT the "astral plane" but corresponds to "Lokas or Talas" (esoteric terminology)

9. Probably cannot be reached by radio but can be reached by radar if signal system can be devised

## Assessments

"We give information and warning, and can do no more. Let the newcomers be treated with every kindness. Unless the disks are met in a situation threatens with which our culture and science are incapable of grasping. A heavy responsibility rests upon the men in authority who are able to understand these matters."

## Redactions

None noted

## Addendum

"The Lokas are oval shape, fluted lengthwise of the oval with a heat-resisting metal or alloy not yet known to us. The front section contains the controls; the middle section apparently of a powerful energy apparatus."

## Notes

Speculative/esoteric document making claims without empirical support; appears to be civilian speculation rather than government investigation.

Page 161

View PDF ↗
page161
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 161

## Status

no_content

Routing/administrative page with minimal legible text.

Page 162

View PDF ↗
page162
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 162 - FBI Teletype on Unidentified Objects - Williams Field, Arizona

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

FBI teletype / MOIC statement (FBI copy, confidential)

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

detailsJuly 14, 1947 (memorandum date)

## Locations

detailsWilliams Field, Chandler, Arizona

## Organizations

detailsHeadquarters Fourth Air Force, Office of Assistant Chief of Staff, A-2 Intelligence, Hamilton Field, California

## Observations

Pictures of unidentifiable objects obtained on July 8, 1947 at sunset. Pictures taken by Mr. Williams Roads, 4333 W. 14th St., Phoenix, Arizona. Subject objects flew at inconceivable speeds, making three circles in vicinity of Mr. Roads' home. Pictures taken with box camera, size 620. Photograph (Exhibit 1) taken as object passed in front of Mr. Roads and Exhibit 2 as object turned towards Mr. Roads. Height of object estimated at 1000 feet.

## References

detailsExhibits 1 and 2: photographs of unidentifiable objects, enlarged approximately 20 times

## Notes

"No further reports have been received by this office of objects seen by military personnel."

## Routing

FBI San Francisco field office

Page 163

View PDF ↗
page163
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 163 - MOIC/Army Air Force Letter on Flying Discs Investigation

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Army correspondence / memorandum

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

detailsAugust 4, 1947

## Organizations

details
  • Headquarters Fourth Air Force
  • Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff, A-2 Intelligence
  • Hamilton Field, California

## People

detailsWilliam R. Graham, Major, Air Corps, Deputy AC of S, A-2

## Recipients

detailsSpecial Agent in Charge, FBI, U.S. Department of Justice, Suite 426, 111 Sutter Street, San Francisco 4, California

## Subject

Investigation of "Flying Discs"

## Attachments

details
  • MOIC statement (Aldrich, 14 Jul 47)
  • Newspaper clipping (dated 5 Jul 47)

## Actions

MOIC forwarded for FBI information regarding flying discs investigation.

Page 164

View PDF ↗
page164
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 164

## Status

no_content

Blank/routing page.

Page 165

View PDF ↗
page165
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 165 - Office Memorandum on Mrs. Arthur Douglas Anderson - Flying Saucers Informant

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Office memorandum (Standard Form No. 64)

## Classification

Unclassified

## Dates

details
  • August 1, 1947 (memorandum date)
  • July 12, 1947 (letter postmark date)

## People

details
  • Mrs. Arthur Douglas Anderson (subject informant)
  • J. P. Coyne (from)
  • D. M. Ladd (to)

## Organizations

detailsFBI

## Subject

Flying saucers / unidentified aerial phenomena

## Content

Letter received from Mrs. Arthur Douglas Anderson postmarked July 12, 1947 concerning "flying saucers." Letter of acknowledgement to Mrs. Anderson included with memorandum along with letter to War Department for approval.

## Recommendation

Letter to War Department should be forwarded to Liaison Section for transmittal to that agency.

## Administrative

details
  • Prepared by: J. P. Coyne
  • Filed as: case reference 62-83894

Page 166

View PDF ↗
page166
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 166

## Status

no_content

Administrative routing/stamps page.

Page 167

View PDF ↗
page167
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 167 - FBI Teletype on Flying Discs - Myrtle Creek, Oregon

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

FBI teletype

## Classification

Unclassified

## Dates

details
  • August 11, 1947 (transmission date: 8-11-47, 1-17 PM PST)
  • August 6, 1947 (sighting date: evening)

## Locations

details
  • Myrtle Creek, Oregon
  • Five thousand feet altitude

## People

detailsOne Red Hatfield, former Navy pilot, airport manager, Myrtle Creek, Oregon

## Organizations

detailsFBI Portland

## Observations

Pilot reported seeing mysterious object on two occasions evening of August 6 while flying at about 5,000 feet above Myrtle Creek. Hatfield to be interviewed.

## Instructions

Investigation pending interview.

## Communications

details
  • From: FBI Portland
  • To: Director, FBI, and SACs Seattle and Portland
  • Marked: URGENT

Page 168

View PDF ↗
page168
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 168

## Status

no_content

Routing/administrative page with minimal legible text.

Page 169

View PDF ↗
page169
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 169 - Office Memorandum on Flying Discs - Milwaukee SAC Report

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Office memorandum (Standard Form No. 64)

## Classification

Unclassified

## Dates

detailsAugust 12, 1947 (memorandum date)

## Locations

details
  • Black River Falls, Wisconsin
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Jackson County Fairgrounds

## People

details
  • Lieutenant Colonel Harry W. Schaefer, Civil Air Patrol of Wisconsin, charge
  • Sig Hanson, city electrician, Jackson County
  • Colonel Fred Siebert, Counter Intelligence, Fifth Army, Chicago

## Organizations

details
  • SAC Milwaukee (Special Agent in Charge)
  • Civil Air Patrol of Wisconsin (auxiliary of Army Air Forces)
  • Fifth Army Counter Intelligence, Chicago

## Subject

Flying discs / sabotage

## References

detailsBureau Bulletin No. 42, Series 1947, dated July 30, 1947, Section (B)

## Prior Reports

details
  • First report: July 7, 1947 (no investigation conducted)
  • Second report: July 11, 1947, 1:20 p.m.

## Observations - First Report (July 7)

Prior to Bureau Bulletin No. 42 instructions, Milwaukee had no flying disc investigation protocol.

## Observations - Second Report (July 11, 1947)

Object in shape of disc, nineteen inches in diameter, found July 10, 1947 by Sig Hanson (city electrician) on Jackson County Fairgrounds near Black River Falls, Wisconsin around 3:30 p.m.

### Physical Description

details
  • Disc made of substance such as cardboard covered by silver airplane dope material
  • Small wooden tail like rudder in back
  • Inside contained what appears to be RCA photo-electric cell or tube
  • Small electric motor with shaft running to center of disc
  • Very small propeller at end of shaft
  • Colonel Schaefer's opinion: possibly made by juvenile

### Disposition

Colonel Schaefer desired to return contraption to Milwaukee and turn over to Army Air Forces, but finder Sig Hanson apparently wanted publicity and wanted it returned to him.

## Communications

Information telephonically called to Assistant Director D. M. Ladd on July 11, 1947. SAC H. K. Johnson subsequently telephoned Colonel Fred Siebert, Counter Intelligence, Fifth Army, Chicago.

## Actions

No further investigation conducted in this matter. Office does not contemplate taking further action unless contrary instructions received from Bureau. Will fully investigate all future flying disc reports.

## References

detailsFile: 98-0

Page 170

View PDF ↗
page170
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 170 - Continuation of Milwaukee Flying Disc Memorandum

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Office memorandum continuation

## Conclusion

"The above constitutes the only two instances in which this office was contacted concerning flying discs. Unless contrary instructions are received from the Bureau, this office does not contemplate taking any further action in connection with the above two cases, but will fully investigate all future reports concerning flying discs."

## Administrative

details
  • From: SAC Milwaukee
  • To: Director, FBI
  • Date: 8-12-47
  • File: 98-0

Page 171

View PDF ↗
page171
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 171 - FBI Hoover Letter to Fred R. Reibold on Flying Discs

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

FBI official correspondence - letter

## Classification

Unclassified

## Dates

details
  • August 5, 1947 (letter date)
  • July 10, 1947 (incoming letter postmark)

## People

details
  • Fred R. Reibold, 2315 Himebaugh Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska
  • John Edgar Hoover, Director, FBI

## Content

Hoover's acknowledgment letter to Mr. Fred Reibold regarding letter postmarked July 10, 1947 with enclosure concerning "flying discs."

## Actions

"Inasmuch as the information which you furnished is of interest to the War Department I have taken the liberty of furnishing it to that agency for their consideration."

## Handwritten Note

"flying discs" (handwritten annotation on letter)

Page 172

View PDF ↗
page172
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 172 - Declassified Army/Air Force Memorandum on Unidentifiable Objects - Williams Field, Arizona

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Army Air Force memorandum/declassified document

## Classification

Declassified (authority: NND 90086)

## Dates

detailsJuly 14, 1947 (memorandum date)

## Locations

details
  • Williams Field, Chandler, Arizona
  • Phoenix, Arizona (4333 W. 14th St., photographer residence)

## People

details
  • Mr. Williams Roads, 4333 W. 14th St., Phoenix, Arizona (photographer)
  • Lynn C. Aldrich, Special Agent, SIG-AAF, FOTRC (photographer/agent)

## Observations

On July 8, 1947 at sunset, agent obtained pictures of unidentifiable objects (Exhibits 1 and 2) from managing editor of Informe Republic newspaper. Pictures taken by Mr. Williams Roads. Subject objects flew at unconceivable speeds, making three circles in vicinity of Mr. Roads' home. Pictures taken with box camera, size 620. Photograph (Exhibit 1) taken as object passed in front of Mr. Roads; Exhibit 2 taken as object turned towards Mr. Roads. Height of object estimated at 1000 feet.

## Notes

"See Exhibits 1 and 2, photographs of unidentifiable objects, enlarged approximately 20 times. No further reports have been received by this office of objects seen by military personnel."

Page 173

View PDF ↗
page173
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 173 - Army Air Force Letter to FBI on Flying Discs Investigation

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Army Air Force official correspondence

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

detailsAugust 4, 1947

## Organizations

details
  • Headquarters Fourth Air Force
  • Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff, A-2 Intelligence
  • Hamilton Field, California

## People

detailsWilliam R. Graham, Major, Air Corps, Deputy AC of S, A-2

## Recipients

details
  • Special Agent in Charge, FBI, U.S. Department of Justice
  • Suite 426, 111 Sutter Street
  • San Francisco 4, California

## Subject

Investigation of "Flying Discs"

## Content

"Enclosed herewith is information copy of statement and newspaper clipping re subject."

## Attachments

1. Statement of Rankin, dated 30 Jul 47

2. Newspaper clipping, dated 5 Jul 47

## Distribution

FBI San Francisco field office

Page 174

View PDF ↗
page174
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 174

## Status

no_content

Blank page.

Page 175

View PDF ↗
page175
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 175 - Hoover Letter/Army Air Force Statement on Flying Discs - Williams Field, Arizona Photos

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

FBI letter (copy, best possible image)

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

details
  • August 4, 1947
  • July 14, 1947 (VOIC/MOIC statement date)

## Organizations

details
  • Headquarters Fourth Air Force
  • Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff, A-2 Intelligence
  • Hamilton Field, California
  • FBI

## People

detailsWilliam R. Graham, Major, Air Corps, Deputy AC of S, A-2

## Content

Attached MOIC is forwarded for FBI information regarding "Flying Discs" investigation.

## Attachments

1. VOIC Aldrich, 14 Jul 47

## Distribution

FBI San Francisco field office routing

Page 176

View PDF ↗
page176
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 176 - MOIC Statement on Unidentifiable Objects - Williams Field/Phoenix

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Army Air Force MOIC (Memorandum for the Officer in Charge) statement

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

detailsJuly 14, 1947

## Locations

details
  • Williams Field, Phoenix, Arizona area
  • 4333 W. 14th Street, Phoenix

## People

details
  • Mr. Williams Roads, photographer
  • Lynn C. Aldrich, Special Agent, SIG-AAF, FOTRC

## Observations

July 8, 1947 at sunset, special agent obtained pictures of unidentifiable objects from managing editor of Informe Republic newspaper. Pictures taken by Mr. Williams Roads at sunset July 7, 1947. Subject objects flew at unconceivable speeds making three circles in vicinity of Mr. Roads' home. Pictures taken with box camera, size 620. Photograph (Exhibit 1) taken as object passed in front of Mr. Roads, Exhibit 2 as object turned towards Mr. Roads. Height of object estimated at 1000 feet.

## Agency Notes

"All informants mentioned herein are known to this agent as very dependable and trustworthy officers, not affiliated with balloon manufacturers. The weather in the Portland area at this time was clear with little or no cloud formations being visible from the ground. Ground temperature at this time was 62 degree Fahrenheit."

Page 177

View PDF ↗
page177
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 177 - Newspaper Clipping from Oregon Journal - Flying Discs Reports

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Newspaper clipping

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

details
  • July 5, 1947 (Oregon Journal publication date)
  • July 3, 1947 (sighting date - Friday)

## Locations

details
  • Portland, Oregon area
  • Boise, Idaho
  • Seattle, Washington area
  • Ross Island Bridge, Portland

## Observations

### Multiple Sightings Friday July 3

Circumstantial reports of flying disks in sky came from airline plane over Boise, Idaho, coast guard man near Seattle, and police. One airline captain (C. J. Smith) told United Press he sighted five "thirtieth" which were "third to smooth on the bottom and rough appearing on top." Objects appeared against sun shortly after plane took off at 3:04 p.m. No new sightings clearly. He reported two followed them in northwesterly direction for about 45 miles. Finally objects disappeared. Unable to tell whether they outspeed us or disintegrated.

### Aircraft Status

"NOT AIRCRAFT"

"The objects appeared against the sun shortly after the plane took off... We can't say whether they were saucer-like, oval or anything else, the captain said, 'but whatever they were, they were not another aircraft, nor were they smoke or clouds.'"

### Additional Sightings

details
  • Coast Guardsman Frank Rymon, 27, reported to United Press disclosure from porch of home which showed "white saucer" flying over north end of Lake Washington
  • Anne Perce Fizitieres, New York City, saw 7x8 inch print showing bow-tied disc of which one flew in prints
  • Don Videlifo, 19, Oaks Amusement park employee, reported seeing several objects "like spinning disks" in sky Friday
  • In Vancouver, Washington: Sheriff's Deputies John Sullivan, Clarence McKay, Fred Krives heard Portland police radio broadcast and ran out to look at sky. Over Portland, five to six miles away, they saw 20 to 30 objects "like a flight of geese!" Low humming sound heard.

### Skeptical Reports

details
  • Col. G. R. Dodson, commander Oregon National Guard, made inspection of area from air after disks reported. Said he saw nothing "suspicious"
  • Only known military airplanes in air at time of reports were 23 B-29 bombers near Astoria

### Witnesses Remain Unconvinced

Despite all reports, at least two persons remained unconvinced of existence of disks: Carl Dooley, Ledge-Dispatch reporter, gave opinion objects were cottomwood blossoms. Earl Holleach, C4, 6604 N. Burrage avenue, telephoned Journal to report newspaper hoax. Claims objects like bits of aluminum foil, perhaps cigarette wrappers

### Additional Report

Centralia, Washington man Wednesday coincided in time with original report made by Arnold. Sidney E. Gallagher of Centralia said he saw unidentified objects flying north at 5 p.m. June 24. He was working 11 miles southwest of Mineral, Washington at the time.

## Quotes

"I can't say whether they were saucer-like, oval or anything else"

"but whatever they were, they were not another aircraft, nor were they smoke or clouds"

Page 178

View PDF ↗
page178
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 178 - Newspaper Clipping from Oregon Journal - Pilot Recalls Seeing Discs

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Newspaper clipping continuation

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

detailsJuly 3, 1947 (publication source date - "FROM THE OREGONIAN" Thursday, July 3, 1947)

## Title

"PILOT RECALLS SEEING DISCS"

## People

details
  • Dick Rankin (pilot, telling account of odd aircraft)
  • Rankin's brother
  • More than 7000-hours flying experience

## Observations

More reports of "flying flap-jacks" turned up Wednesday. One from Dick Rankin (latter half), brother of the late Rankin, and himself an experienced pilot of more than 7000 hours flying time. Rankin, recovering from old back injury received in automobile accident, went to Portland over weekend to spend time on lawn sun bathing. He saw "silver saucers" over Bakersfield, California, June 23, while lying on lawn sun bathing, he told The Oregonian.

Rankin said"I hesitated to much about them. I puzzled over their strange shape for a while and finally concluded that they were the Navy's new XF5J-1 flying planes, which are thin and round, with twin propellers and stubby tail."

### Navy Response

"The navy and the manufacturer have announced officially that only one such machine was built and that it never left Connecticut."

### Description

Planes were flying high, maybe 9000 feet, and fairly fast. About 300 or 600 miles per hour. First counted ten of them going north. About 2:15 p.m. they returned on reverse course, headed south. But there were only seven in formation.

Rankin said"When men ran varying or bobbing in formation, I couldn't make out the number or location of their propellers and couldn't distinguish any wings or tail. They appeared almost round. They looked like pictures of the Navy's flying flagpole, Rankin said."

### Personal Details

Rankin, who plans to spend summer here at 634 N. E. Simpson St., is now sole to resume little flying for fun, but not commercially, he said. He now operates string of auto courts, spending his winters at Palm Springs.

## Quotes

"I hesitated to much about them"

"They appeared almost round. They looked like pictures of the navy's flying flagpole"

Page 179

View PDF ↗
page179
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 179 - Richard Hankin Statement on Flying Discs Sightings

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Classified statement/report (confidential, declassified)

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

details
  • July 30, 1947 (statement date)
  • June 14, 1947 (first sighting date)

## Locations

details
  • Portland, Oregon
  • Simpson Street, Portland
  • Bakerfield (likely Bakersfield), California
  • Southern California

## People

detailsRichard Hankin, 834 N. Simpson Street, Portland (witness/deponent)

## Witness Background

Age 57 years old. First school in an air cadets in 1919. Down over all Western part of United States during years before the state war for the US Forest Service. 16 year old time of the war for the US Forest Service. Flying circus aerial show and various types of aeronautical exhibitions. Approximately 7000 hours flying time both civilian and military aircraft. Well acquainted with most articles that one would see in the air and thought it essential when a new articles entered the air. When articles come through the sky, if he did not attempt to attempt to say that one is infinitely and state that one would definitely identify every object that one could see flying through the air. Not familiar with any aircraft seen that day.

## First Sighting

"At approximately 1200 noon on the 14 of June I was lying in the front yard of my home...There was a 10 inch interval up on just like a bicycle wheel made up with multiple objects flying from the south to north at what would be around 0500 ft. The objects were flying at approximately 0500 ft above the ground. Well inside to 320 miles per hour. As I have noted before the same 1930s and have worked before I have done work for the US Forest Service...distinctly remember that at the time I saw the articles I mentioned it to the kat who saw the same things things...at the time I thought the objects were probably on some sort of Army or Navy test planes from the nearby test center on the coastal of Southern California as they suggested by the general intent the objects were probably on one sort of training mission for either the Army or Navy."

## Continued Observation

"Flying through the air over the late that the objects numbered probably three of the objects had possessed back to their base on a different course. I actually thought that the fact that the objects had probably from head to their base on a different side of the mountains from Bakersfield, I would a week or so later when I read the 'Oregonian Arnold sighting' that he had seen articles flying through the air over the mountains"

## Summary

Complex account describing multiple sightings of unexplained aerial objects with technical details about altitude, speed, and formation patterns. Witness claims to have significant aviation experience and maintains cautious assessment of observations.

Page 180

View PDF ↗
page180
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 180 - Classified Newspaper Article "Prowl Cars Spot Disks in Sky Here"

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Newspaper clipping / classified report

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

detailsJuly 5, 1947 (Oregon Journal publication date)

## Locations

details
  • Portland, Oregon
  • Oaks Park
  • Harbor area at foot of NW Irving Street
  • SE 82d Avenue
  • Downtown Portland

## Observations

### Initial Sighting

Whatever they are, disk-like objects flying around in sky. Five of eight Portland area policemen and deputy sheriffs who sighted objects Friday reported the objects. Nine hours of disc observations over police radio at 1:06 p.m. Friday after East Side station received a score of calls that disks were overhead. Within seconds, two prowl cars reported spotting the "mystery crafts."

### Physical Characteristics

"PLANES SEEN, NOISE LACKING"

First to reportPatrolmen Walter Lissy and Robert Ellis in Car No. 82, stopped near Oaks Park. Both World War II veterans and civilian pilot/observers. They sighted three of the objects within 10 seconds sailing at great height and speed over park. Reported they heard no engine noise but saw flashes. Objects seemed erratic and changed direction flight. Patrolmen agreed that without knowledge of the size of objects it would be impossible to judge their speed or altitude. Earl Patterson in Car No. 13 stopped at SE 82d Avenue and reported to telephone calls located them coming out of sun. He saw nothing, but a few seconds later observed one coming out of west and heading southwest. Craft appeared to be aluminum or grayish white and didn't flash or reflect light, he said.

### Objects Unidentified

A former aircorps veteran said object was unlike any plane he'd ever seen. He thought it appeared radio-controlled because disk could change direction at 90-degree angle without following.

### Harbor Patrol Observation

Members of harbor patrol at foot of NW Irving Street stopped out when they heard the all-car alert. Capt. E. A. Fronn, harbor pilot, A. S. Brugher Patrolman, R. C. Noll said the objects and all appeared to be going south high over the Globe Mills at terrific speed. Capt. Fronn said flashes kept them from ascertaining whether there were three or four.

### Witness Descriptions

"The disks would oscillate and sometimes we would see a full disk, then a half-moon shape, then nothing at all," he reported. Objects looked like a shiny chromium hub cap off car which wobbled, disappeared and reappeared.

There was a plane in sky at time, but all were emphatic that disks were not planes.

## Quotes

"The disks would oscillate and sometimes we would see a full disk, then a half-moon shape, then nothing at all"

Page 181

View PDF ↗
page181
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 181 - Classified Report: "Unexplained Flying Discs" - Portland Area Observations

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Classified Army/military report

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

detailsJuly 7, 1947 (report date)

## Locations

detailsPortland, Oregon area

## Organizations

details
  • Army (Sixth Army CIC)
  • FBI

## People

details
  • W. A. Lissy and D. V. Ellis, Portland City Police Department patrolmen (witnesses)
  • Keith A. Sorensen, S/A CIC, Sixth Army (reporting officer)

## Observations

Interviewed W. A. Lissy and D. V. Ellis, both patrolmen, Portland City Police Department and both possessing private pilot licenses. Both officers advised they heard over police radio a short flat white discs having white color to them. These discs were, according to these officers, flying at terrific speed in a southerly direction away from Portland. They described them as straight line formation, the last disc fluttering very rapidly in a side way arc. They further advised the discs were equally spaced and kept in formation. Both officers estimated discs at 20,000 feet. They saw no evidence of any motive powers and vapor trails or smoke trails. Both officers stated these discs were traveling so fast, they were out of sight before any detailed observation could be made, or any sound could be heard.

## Agency Assessment

"AGENT'S NOTE: All informants mentioned herein are known to this agent as very dependable and trustworthy officers, not affiliated with balloon manufacturers. The weather in the Portland area at this time was clear with little or no cloud formations being visible from the ground. Ground temperature at this time was 62 degree Fahrenheit."

Page 182

View PDF ↗
page182
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 182 - Classified Army Report: "Unexplained Flying Discs" Detailed Observations

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Classified Army/military report (confidential, declassified)

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

detailsJuly 7, 1947

## Locations

details
  • Portland, Oregon area
  • Precincts (Police)
  • Milwaukie, Oregon District Number 1 Station
  • Portland City Police Department
  • Southeast Portland

## Organizations

details
  • Army CIC (Sixth Army)
  • Portland City Police Department
  • Oregon State Police

## People

details
  • Officer McDowell (Portland City Police, Precinct #1)
  • Sergeant Claude Cross (Oregon State Police, District 1 Station, Milwaukie)
  • Earl S. Patterson (Portland City Police Department Patrolman, 124 Southeast 15th Avenue)

## MEMORANDUM FOR THE OFFICER IN CHARGE

### Sighting 1 - July 4, 1947

At 1305, 4 July 1947, radio alert issued via Portland City Police Radio, advising all cars and listeners that some fast flying objects were in air over Portland and vicinity. Upon contacting radio dispatcher, agent was advised that Kenneth L. Holovak, Portland City Police Department, residing at 916 S. E. High Street, Portland, Oregon, on duty at Precinct #1, Portland City Police, Southwest Division at 109th Avenue, had called in advising dispatcher of flying objects.

### Sighting 2 - McDowell Interview

Agent interviewed Officer McDowell who stated at approximately 1305, 4 July 1947, he was on duty at Precinct #1, and was in parking lot back of Police Station, feeding pigeons. At this time pigeons became very excited over something and fluttered in air all around. Officer McDowell stated in looking around to see what had disturbed them, he saw five large disks in air to east of Portland two disks flying south and three flying in easterly direction. Officer McDowell stated he could determine no color to disks, but advised they were dipping in up and down oscillating motion and were traveling at great speed. He was unable to give any estimates of the speed or altitude of these disks at they were out of sight before any detailed observation could be made. Officer McDowell advised he notified Police Radio who immediately broadcast alert. Officer McDowell advised he saw no indication of any motive force or propeller sound. He heard no sound coming from these disks and could give no description other than round.

### Sighting 3 - Sergeant Claude Cross Interview

Agent interviewed Sergeant Claude Cross, Oregon State Police Officer on duty at District Number 1 Station, Milwaukie, Oregon. Cross stated upon hearing radio alert he went outside and upon looking in easterly direction saw three disks following each other in undetermined altitude and at terrific speed, traveling in northwesterly direction. Cross advised he noticed a whitish-brown glint to these objects as sun reflected from them. Cross noted he was unable to give any description nor could he judge the object speed or altitude. No sound was made by the objects.

### Sighting 4 - Earl S. Patterson Interview

Agent interviewed Earl S. Patterson, Patrolman, Portland City Police Department, and residing at 124 Southeast 15th Avenue, Portland, Oregon. Patterson advises he was former Air Corps pilot during the war. He stated that the time the radio alert sounded, he was at Southeast 4th and Foster Road, Portland, and upon getting out of car he saw one disk flying in southwesterly direction over Portland. Patterson advised this disk was aluminum or metallic in color, light or no vapor trail or smoke trail and was traveling at a terrific speed, faster than he had ever seen any flying object before. Patterson further advised, although not knowing exact size of object it is difficult to determine the altitude, he estimates its altitude at 20,000 feet.

Patterson further advised flying disc was definitely some type of aircraft but could not fly any further description as it is observation difficult. He heard no sound emitted by flying disc.

## Administrative

details
  • Keith A. Sorensen, S/A CIC, Sixth Army
  • AUG 7 1947 stamp

Page 183

View PDF ↗
page183
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 183

## Status

no_content

Routing/administrative stamps only.

Page 184

View PDF ↗
page184
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 184 - Declassified Newspaper Clipping: "Pilot Recalls Seeing Discs" and Additional Sightings

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Newspaper clipping compilation / classified news report

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Dates

detailsJuly 3, 1947 (newspaper publication date - "FROM THE OREGONIAN - Thursday, July 3, 1947")

## Locations

details
  • Portland, Oregon
  • Bakersfield, California
  • Idaho/Boise area
  • Washington
  • Lake Washington (north end)
  • Mineral, Washington
  • Centralia, Washington

## Titles

"PILOT RECALLS SEEING DISCS"

"TWO DESCRIPTIONS CHECK"

## Key Witnesses

### Dick Rankin Account

Rankin (former aircraft/pilot) reported seeing objects described as resembling Navy's XFU-1 flying plane - thin, round with twin propellers and stubby tail. Objects over Bakersfield, California June 23 while lying on lawn. Counted ten objects going north, estimated 9000 feet, fairly fast (300-600 mph). About 2:15 p.m. returned on reverse course headed south, but only seven in formation. Objects appeared almost round, couldn't distinguish propeller locations or wings/tail.

### Official Navy Response

"Only one such machine was built and it never left Connecticut"

### Personal Details

Rankin plans to spend summer at 634 N.E. Simpson St. He now operates string of auto courts, spending winters at Palm Springs.

## Two Descriptions Check

### Rankin's Description

Flying objects "quite round" with "twin propellers and stubby tail" - resembled Navy's XFU-1 flying aircraft. Objects appeared metallic disks glinting in sunlight. Unable to judge speed/altitude reliably.

### Additional Accounts

Objects "unidentified" - flying north at 8 p.m. June 24 from Mineral, Washington area. Objects resembled "pictures of balls." Multiple witnesses across region reported similar characteristics - disc/round shape, metallic appearance, silent operation, rapid speed.

## Assessment

Multiple corroborating accounts from different areas and dates suggest pattern of unusual aerial phenomena. Objects consistently described as round/disc-like, metallic, silent, high altitude, rapid movement. Witnesses often had aviation experience or military background.

Page 185

View PDF ↗
page185
document65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_1

# Page 185 - Photograph Exhibits: Unidentifiable Objects

## Status

Content present

## Doc Type

Photographic exhibit page

## Classification

Confidential (declassified)

## Content

Two black and white photographs labeled
  • EXHIBIT I (upper photograph)
  • EXHIBIT II (lower photograph)

Both photographs show unclear/grainy images of dark objects against lighter backgrounds. Objects appear roughly elliptical or disc-shaped. Images are labeled with corner marks for filing purposes.

## Notes

These photographs were reportedly enlarged approximately 20 times from originals taken by Mr. Williams Roads on July 8, 1947 over Williams Field/Phoenix area using a box camera (size 620). Objects estimated at 1000 feet altitude.

Quality of images is poor in this reproduction, consistent with enlargement of small negatives and declassified document photocopy process.