Magazine Summary
UFO NEWS
Summary
This issue of UFO News from December 1981 covers a wide range of UFO and alien encounter reports from around the world. It highlights significant sightings in Moscow, Russia, involving a massive UFO over a secret air base, and in Arizona, USA, where a V-shaped craft was observed by many. The publication also features accounts from Ohio, Pittsburgh, and international locations like Argentina and Brazil, discussing witness testimonies, investigator findings, and potential government involvement. The issue emphasizes the ongoing nature of UFO phenomena and the efforts of organizations like the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center to document these events.
Magazine Overview
Title: UFO NEWS
Issue Date: December 1981
Volume: 6, No. 12
Publisher: Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center (A.P.C.I.C.), Cleveland, Ohio.
This issue of UFO NEWS delves into a variety of UFO sightings and related phenomena from late 1981, featuring reports from the United States and internationally. The publication is produced by the A.P.C.I.C., which provides monthly news releases on aerial phenomena. The cover prominently displays the magazine's title alongside an illustration of a flying saucer.
Key Articles and Reports
UFO Sightings - Real or Not (Bedford, Ohio Times Register, Oct 29, 1981) This article focuses on the work of Charles Wilhelm, area director of the Ohio UFO Investigators' League. Wilhelm investigates claims of inexplicable occurrences, stating that while most can be explained, some strongly suggest phenomena beyond terrestrial explanations, including spaceships and Bigfoot. He notes that hard, undeniable evidence is scarce, but witness testimony and medical examinations (in one case) lend credence to some claims. Wilhelm believes that if alien specimens or crafts exist, they are likely held by the government and will not be released. He points to the Loveland-Goshen area in Ohio as a hotspot for unusual sightings, often near water, suggesting it might be a power source. The report also mentions creature sightings, particularly Bigfoot, in southern Ohio.
UFO Sightings Real or Not (North Platte, Nebr. Telegraph, Oct 21, 1981) This report details an unexplained airborne object sighted on radar near North Platte, Nebraska. Area residents, including weather service specialists and law enforcement officials, observed a saucer-shaped object with flashing lights. The director of the Unidentified Flying Object Reporting Center in Seattle stated there was no explanation for the object. While many reported sightings are attributed to bright stars like Sirius, this case remained unexplained. The investigation was hampered by the object's distance.
Huge UFO Keeps Returning to 2 Arizona Towns (National Enquirer, Dec 1, 1981) This article describes a massive, V-shaped UFO that has repeatedly visited two Arizona copper mining towns, Clifton and Morenci, since late 1980. The UFO, described as being the size of a football field and outlined in colored lights, hovered over a high school football field, witnessed by over 140 people. Witnesses included businessmen, a retired engineer, and a judge. The object was also seen near a copper smelting plant. Descriptions varied, with some noting red lights and a searchlight, while others reported a humming sound. Some reports mentioned smaller craft separating from the mother ship. G.J. Callicotte, a retired engineer, reported seeing the UFO on two consecutive nights in December, noting different light formations.
Startling Evidence: That Space Aliens Are Everywhere (National Enquirer, Dec 8, 1981) This piece suggests that descriptions of UFOs and alien encounters from primitive cultures, such as African tribes and American Indians, bear striking similarities to modern reports from Westerners. UFO researcher Ulrich Dopatka and Cynthia Hind, an investigator from Zimbabwe, note the uncanny parallels. Brad Steiger, an author who has studied Native American legends, also points to connections between ancient stories of 'vanishing men' from the sky and contemporary UFO accounts. The article implies a worldwide phenomenon that has existed throughout history.
Russians Run in Terror as UFO Blitzes Moscow (National Enquirer, Dec 8, 1981) This report details a massive KGB investigation into UFO incidents in Russia. A super-secret Soviet air base was reportedly hovered over by a mysterious alien spacecraft, causing panic. The incident, witnessed by thousands on May 15, involved a gigantic, ball-shaped mother ship that streaked towards Moscow and then hovered over the top-secret Vnukovo Air Base. Soviet fighter planes scrambled to intercept but the craft escaped, displaying aerial fireworks over the city's outskirts. A top Russian scientist confirmed the KGB's interrogation of over 2,500 witnesses and interviews with space scientists. Dr. Felix Zigel, a leading UFO authority in Russia, described the mother ship's appearance and rapid movement. Dr. Vladimir Azhazha detailed the craft hovering over the air base and its subsequent maneuvers. The article also references a similar UFO episode in 1980 and speculates about the aliens' intentions.
UFO Blitzes Moscow (Continued) (National Enquirer) The continuation of the Moscow UFO report describes the mother ship launching three smaller UFOs before vanishing. One small craft hovered over the Kremlin, another positioned itself over a Moscow railroad station before diving into a lake, and a third hovered over the Moscow Technological Institute. The report speculates that this might be a return visit from the same mother ship, possibly indicating an angry or bellicose alien presence.
Peter Leo: UFO Devotee is Not Alone (Pittsburgh Post Gazette, Nov 17, 1981) This article profiles Diane Enion, a 34-year-old housewife and freelance writer from Pittsburgh who is a member of the Pennsylvania Center for UFO Research. Enion investigates UFO sightings and is described as neither a believer nor a non-believer, but someone who believes UFOs deserve serious consideration. She has not seen a UFO herself but is intrigued by the unexplained. The article notes that the Pennsylvania Center for UFO Research receives calls about unusual airborne sightings and sends out investigators like Enion. It mentions a recent case involving an object seen over the Mon River during a power failure. Enion has been collecting UFO information since age 18 and notes that people are often hesitant to come forward for fear of ridicule. The article also touches on other sightings in the Pittsburgh area, including a low-flying formation of strange objects and a triangular object with lights.
'UFO' Sighted Locatty (Marion Ohio Star, Nov 5, 1981) By KEVIN LAMIMAN A Marion County, Ohio woman, Marcia Stone, reported seeing a bright, moving pattern of lights, described as a UFO, near Big Island late Tuesday evening. She, along with a friend and her son, watched the lights for several minutes as they moved westward and then receded northwest. The lights were described as red, blue, and white. Another car passed by, and Stone believed its occupants also saw the phenomenon. The object made no sound and there was little wind. The incident was reported to the Highway Patrol and referred to the Federal Aviation Administration. A spokesman from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base stated no aircraft from their facility were over Marion County at the time. The planet Venus, often mistaken for UFOs, was noted as being visible in the southwest sky but had set before the sighting.
City Happenings: Another UFO Sighting Here (Norfolk Nebr. News, Oct 23, 1981) Mrs. Ron Vogtman of Norfolk, Nebraska, reported seeing a strange object in the sky, described as a large red star moving rapidly from the northwest to the south. She decided to report her sighting after learning that Mr. and Mrs. Doug Busskohl had seen a similar object. The object first appears at about 6:30 p.m. and fades from sight by 7 p.m., reappearing 20-30 minutes later. It was described as having a reddish cast as it moved lower in the sky. Indianola Police Chief Bud Rogers also reported seeing the object, describing it as a great big star that turns reddish-orange as it gets lower. Rogers suggested it might be a satellite or another human invention.
'Flying Saucers' Spotted Over County Again! (Texas City Texas Sun, Oct 28, 1981) This article reports on multiple UFO sightings in the Galveston area. Residents described an eerie white glow with red and green lights flickering over Galveston for a second consecutive night. While some officials offered explanations like the evening star or gas rig flares, a dispatcher at the Galveston Police Department, Suzanne Northcutt, confirmed seeing the phenomenon herself. A Coast Guard helicopter pilot, Lt. Dave Marks, stated he saw no unusual lights, suggesting they might be reflections. Petty Officer Martin Taylor of the Coast Guard's Galveston Operations office suggested gas rig flares reflecting off clouds as a possible explanation. Sightings were also reported in Winnie and La Porte.
UFO Sightings Reported By Indianola Residents (McCook, Nebr. Gazette, Oct 27, 1981) This report details ongoing sightings of unidentified flying objects in the Indianola, Nebraska area. The Ken Blume family has watched a low, bright, multi-colored object in the southwest sky since Thursday evening, appearing around 6:30 p.m. and fading by 7 p.m. The object appeared to have a reddish cast and hovered lower than usual on Monday night before disappearing behind trees. Billie Boyer also observed the object, describing it as radiating in the sky with no definite colors, and taking on a reddish cast. Indianola Police Chief Bud Rogers reported seeing the object, likening it to a great big star that turns reddish-orange. Rogers, however, discounted the UFO possibility, suggesting it was likely a satellite or human invention.
UFOs Are Incredible (Goshen, Ind. News, Oct 30, 1981) Charles L. Tucker, head of the International UFO Investigative Bureau, is featured in this article. Tucker's organization seeks to gather facts about UFOs without approving or disapproving them. The article notes that while many people believe in UFOs, others dismiss them as preposterous. Tucker's recent visit to Brazil involved a Brazilian Air Force expedition investigating UFO happenings in the Amazon River region. Expeditions interviewed natives and residents who reported UFO sightings and beams of light. Some residents set up patrols to watch for UFOs. Descriptions included triangle-shaped objects with windows and saucer-shaped craft emerging from the river. The possibility of an underwater UFO base in the Amazon was speculated.
Pilots Sight UFO in Córdoba, not seen from ground (Buenos Aires Herald, Nov 2, 1981) This report from Argentina details two pilots of commercial flights who claimed to have seen an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) in Córdoba province. The object was reportedly not visible from the ground due to prevailing weather conditions. Austral Airlines flight 408 and Aerolíneas Argentinas flight 510 pilots reported seeing a "bright, round, huge object" with a smaller object inside. The UFO was observed at an approximate altitude of 180 meters. The sighting occurred near the town of Marcos Juárez.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue of UFO NEWS revolve around the prevalence and diversity of UFO sightings across different geographical locations and cultures. There is a consistent emphasis on witness testimony, the challenges of obtaining concrete evidence, and the role of investigators and organizations in documenting these phenomena. The publication appears to adopt a stance of open inquiry, presenting various reports and expert opinions without necessarily endorsing specific conclusions, while acknowledging the persistent nature of the UFO mystery. International reports, particularly from Russia and South America, highlight the global scope of the phenomenon. The issue also touches upon the potential for government secrecy and the similarities between ancient legends and modern UFO accounts, suggesting a long-standing interaction with unknown aerial phenomena.
This issue of the North Platte, Nebr. Telegraph, dated October 20, 1981, features a prominent cover story titled "UFOsightings perplex police, weather officials." The publication also includes articles from other newspapers across the United States and England, detailing a widespread wave of reported UFO sightings during October 1981 and preceding months.
North Platte, Nebraska: A Wave of Sightings
The lead article by Gene Browning reports on a series of UFO sightings in North Platte, Nebraska, on the morning of Monday, October 19, 1981. Robert Newland, a National Weather Service radar specialist, observed a saucer-shaped object with rotating red, green, and white lights on radar and through a low-power scope. He noted the object hovered at about 6½ degrees above the horizon and did not drift with the strong winds, which he found contrary to the behavior of manmade objects. Tom Knobel, a Union Pacific Railroad employee, also spotted the object through binoculars from Bailey Yard and alerted police. Sgt. Mike Swain and patrolman James Agler responded and observed the object along with two other less distinct objects. Swain stated that the sightings were not stars or atmospheric conditions, leaving authorities baffled. Newland contacted the Federal Aviation Administration, which reported no air traffic in the area, and a UFO research center in Seattle. Similar sightings were also reported in Lexington and Brady, Nebraska.
Galveston, Texas: Rumors Fly
An article from The Houston Post, dated October 29, 1981, discusses rumors of strange lights in Galveston, Texas, around Halloween. A 23-year-old resident described a white light like a strobe that moved across the sky. Officer Jerry Rodriguez suggested the sightings might have been the Evening Star (Venus). However, Precinct 3 Constable Joe Scrofne reported seeing a round object with various colors at an altitude of 25,000 to 35,000 feet on two consecutive nights, stating, "I never believed in UFOs. But I saw it last night and I see it tonight." A U.S. Coast Guard helicopter crew suggested the lights might be reflections from an offshore gas well. The National Weather Service found no unusual atmospheric conditions, and Intercontinental Airport reported nothing unusual on radar.
McCook, Nebraska: UFO Reports Continue
The McCook, Nebr. Gazette, dated October 24, 1981, reports on ongoing UFO sightings in the area. One account describes three carloads of people witnessing an orange-glowing oblong object rise from the Republican River valley southeast of McCook and fly off. A McCook woman, who wished to remain anonymous, reported her son and others saw the object. Three McCook police officers also reported seeing a bright star-like object with rotating colored lights. A woman eight miles southwest of McCook reported seeing a UFO that appeared to be a stationary red and yellow flickering light, too low to be a star or planet, and not an airplane. The object hovered for about 10 minutes before disappearing.
Nevada and Sacramento Counties, California: Close Encounters
An article from The Sacramento Bee, dated November 4, 1981, details several UFO sightings in Nevada and Sacramento counties. Joe Johns reported seeing an elliptical shape of white light that descended and then darted back up. Tim Blanchard of Sacramento described seeing an "extremely bright and shiny object" in the northwest sky. An East Sacramento couple reported an oval, translucent object trailing a kitelike tail that sped across the sky. Tom Gates, an astronomer and spokesman for the Bay area's UFO hot line, noted that October historically sees more UFO sightings. The last reports from Nevada County were in January and February 1980.
Port Arthur, Texas: UFO Chaser's Perspective
An article from the Port Arthur, Texas News, dated October 29, 1981, features Wally Grizzard, who identifies himself as a UFO chaser. Grizzard believes aliens intend to make contact with humans in less populated areas. He describes a hypothetical scenario of a giant spaceship landing. He recounts seeing a "flying spaceship" once that "looked kinda like a speedboat, but with no outboard motor on the back." Despite explanations from officials attributing sightings to offshore gas wells or military tests, Grizzard remains convinced of alien visitation.
Henderson, Texas: UFO Sighting Reported
The Henderson, Texas News, dated October 29, 1981, briefly reports a man's account of an unidentified flying object, described as a flying saucer, flying across City Hall and toward International Paper before returning. Police investigating officers did not spot anything unusual.
Washington D.C.: Government Records Battle
An article from The Washington Post, dated November 8, 1981, discusses a legal battle over 131 secret NSA documents concerning UFOs. Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS) is challenging the NSA's refusal to disclose these documents, arguing that if UFOs don't exist, the government has nothing to hide, and if they do exist, the public should know. The NSA claims disclosure could compromise its intelligence-gathering techniques. A previous ruling by a U.S. District Judge deemed the documents too sensitive to release without review.
Loring Air Force Base, Maine: Past Sightings
The Washington Post article also references the sixth anniversary of celebrated sightings over Loring Air Force Base in Maine in October 1975. Reliable military personnel reported seeing unconventional and unexplained aerial objects hovering around nuclear weapons storage sites and missile-control complexes. Fighter planes were sent to pursue some objects, but records did not indicate any engagement. Stephen B. Eichner, a retired sergeant, described seeing a football-shaped reddish-orange object hovering over the Loring dump, which vanished and reappeared.
Lynchburg, Virginia: Mystery Remains
The Lynchburg Va. Advance, dated November 5, 1981, reports on UFO sightings in the area that remain a mystery. Witnesses reported a large, bright light changing shapes, a round object with sparkly lights, and a long tubular object with sparkly lights. FAA officials suggested the sightings might be related to a new landing light system at the Lynchburg Municipal Airport, though the path of the object was away from the airport. The FAA does not have a UFO research bureau and refers reports to private organizations.
Keighley, England: Couple's Sighting and Death Mystery
The Keighley News, dated November 13, 1981, reports on two more UFO sightings that could be linked to a death mystery. Mary and Andrew Roberts reported a cigar-shaped UFO, a zig-zagging light, and a veil of light. Mrs. Heather Ogden and her husband saw a silver-colored UFO. Another woman reported a bright shining UFO. These sightings are being investigated in connection with the death of Zygmunt Jan Adamski, who disappeared and was found with scorch marks.
National Examiner: Personal Encounter
The National Examiner, dated October 13, 1981, features an article titled "My close encounter with a UFO" by Melvyn Troutz. Troutz, who previously didn't believe in UFOs, recounts seeing five perfectly round rings in a tight V-formation traveling at high speed. He dismisses explanations involving weather balloons and expresses conviction in the existence of other civilizations.
La Grande, Oregon: UFO Investigators Study Close Encounter
The La Grande, Ore. Observer, dated November 12, 1981, reports on UFO investigators studying a close encounter on I-5. Greg Long and Cole Cordray of MUFON are investigating a case where a driver and his girlfriend reported seeing a cylindrical-shaped object with orange lights and a bright white one. The object was described as hovering and approaching their truck, causing them to flee.
Tekamah, Nebraska: Mystery Surrounds Lights
The Tekamah, Neb. Plaindealer, dated October 1, 1981, discusses a mystery surrounding lights in the western sky near the Richard Reyzlik farm. Explanations have ranged from alien spacecraft to the planet Venus. Mrs. Reyzlik described the light as "big as a table" and moving predictably each night. Two "UFO experts" from Omaha labeled the object as some sort of ship. A Tekamah-Herman school teacher suggested it might be Venus, but the UFO authorities disagreed.
Norfolk, Nebraska: UFO Sighting
The Norfolk Nebr. News, dated October 21, 1981, reports on a UFO sighting similar to one noticed in North Platte. Mr. and Mrs. Doug Busskohl saw an object with red, green, and white flashing lights. Bill Newman, a weatherman, could not identify the object but thought it was likely an airplane, stating, "I'd have to see something more startling to believe it was a UFO."
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
A recurring theme across these articles is the widespread nature of UFO sightings in the early 1980s, spanning different regions and countries. Authorities, including police and weather officials, are frequently perplexed by these phenomena, often offering conventional explanations such as weather balloons, aircraft, or atmospheric conditions. However, many witnesses insist on the unusual nature of what they observed, leading to ongoing investigations by private organizations like MUFON and BUFORA. The articles highlight the challenges in investigating UFOs, including the lack of physical evidence and the reliance on witness testimony. Some articles also touch upon the government's reluctance to acknowledge or investigate UFOs, citing national security concerns. The overall stance of the reporting appears to be one of presenting the accounts and the official responses, leaving the reader to ponder the unexplained nature of these events.
This issue of the Worthing Gazette, dated October 30, 1981, features a prominent cover story about a local UFO sighting titled "Simon spots UFO." The accompanying Daily Star article from November 3, 1981, expands on this with the sensational headline "UFO MADE ME A TIME TRAVELLER." The publication also includes reports from various regional newspapers across the UK, detailing numerous other UFO sightings and encounters from late October and November 1981.
Simon Spots UFO (Worthing Gazette)
The main story details an encounter by 13-year-old Simon Stenning and his father, Derek Stenning, near Worthing. While driving home on October 30, 1981, Simon spotted a "large coloured disc" hovering above trees near the A27. He described it as having alternating red and white lights that transposed their position. The object also had two exhaust-type projections from which sparks appeared. The object then reportedly moved towards their car, crossed the A27, and accelerated away towards the sea at an "incredible speed." The experience lasted less than a minute and left both father and son terrified, with Mr. Stenning stating, "It put the fear of God into me. This was unlike anything I have seen." The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the sighting would be investigated.
UFO Made Me A Time Traveller (Daily Star)
This article features salesman Alan Cave, who claims he became a time traveler after spotting a "strange orange cloud" on the A46 between Bat and Stroud. As he drove under the object, his milometer, watch, and a digital pen all moved backward. He reported losing 300 miles from his speedometer. The British Flying Saucer Research Bureau is investigating this and other reports in the same area. Checks on aircraft movements in the region yielded no results.
Saucer Watch in the West (Western Daily Press)
This section reports on a series of strange lights sighted over the Severn Estuary, with reports from Tytherington, Stroud, and Almondsbury. These sightings are being investigated by the West branch of the British Flying Saucer Research Bureau. People described seeing a "bright fluorescent glowing object" traveling at high speed from north to south-west. Investigation officer Pat O'Brien noted the object had no sound, left no trail, and its light was constant, unlike an aircraft's navigation light.
A Strange Light in the Sky (West Sussex Gazette)
K. E. Crick of Worthing reported seeing a light in the sky on October 20, 1981, at 6:10 p.m. Seen through binoculars, it appeared as a circle of lights like spokes of a wheel or a clock face, with two spokes thicker than others. It remained stationary for 20 minutes, then turned 90 degrees, appearing diamond-shaped. It later resumed its circular shape. The object moved off at speed to the south-west and stopped again at the same altitude.
Tynesiders Report UFO Encounter (Evening Chronicle, Newcastle Upon Tyne)
Police were investigating a reported sighting of a UFO by three people near Jarrow on October 30, 1981. They described seeing a "large illuminated object" moving at speed, which appeared as a cone shape before getting smaller and disappearing.
UFOs Start a Star Trek to Estate (Bradford Telegraph + Argus)
An unusual number of UFO sightings in Woodside, Bradford, has led to an increase in amateur astronomers visiting the area. Two "white fireballs" were seen drifting over the estate. David Roberts, an astronomer, described them as very bright and not airplane lights. He believes professional astronomers should investigate.
UFO Spotted in Rotherham Area (South Yorkshire Advertiser)
Driver David Green reported seeing two mysterious "star-like" lights on Wortley Road, Rotherham, on November 13, 1981. The lights were stationary and too bright for stars. After about five minutes, they faded and disappeared. RAF Finningley was notified.
Devon UFO Enthusiasts Check Out Sightings (Herald Express, Torquay)
UFO enthusiasts in Devon were investigating several sightings reported over Plymouth on November 16, 1981. Reports described a "flying cross" with a defused light in the center. Similar sightings were reported over South Devon weeks prior.
UFOS Mystery (Evening Courier, Halifax)
Several reports of unidentified flying objects in Calderdale were received. Mr. Paul Jones reported seeing a bright white oval light that hovered and spun before disappearing. Mrs. Evelyn Walker also saw a bright white oval light. A 13-year-old girl reported seeing a round, white object that turned red and disappeared.
Man Sees UFO Shoot Across Sky (Wrexham Evening Leader)
An unidentified flying object was reported to police in Wrexham on November 13, 1981, traveling extremely fast across the night sky. Mr. David Crewe described it as a "bright circular shaped object" that dipped towards the Minera Mountain. North Wales police forwarded the matter to the Minister of Defence.
UFOs May Start Holocaust (Daily Collegian)
Clark C. McClelland, a former aerospace engineer and UFO investigator, stated during a lecture that a nuclear war could be triggered if an extraterrestrial attack was mistaken for an enemy attack. He believes governments are hiding UFO information, which could lead to disastrous consequences. McClelland described a common type of alien being, humanoid in appearance, with pear-shaped heads, long arms, and beige to bluish-grey skin. He also mentioned UFOs observed during World War II and a case involving a Soviet MiG-21 jet and a Cuban pilot reportedly destroyed by a UFO.
Area Residents Report Close Encounter (Meredith, N.H. News)
On November 12, 1981, several people in Meredith, New Hampshire, reported seeing unusual lights in the sky, described as an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO). Witnesses described a "very, very bright light" and an object with constantly flashing lights and "orangish" lights connected to it. Some reports mentioned the object moving silently and appearing like a "boomerang." The object was described as about 40 feet across and 20-25 feet high, and it moved without noise.
UFOs - County Residents Say They Have Had Close Encounters of the First Kind (Meredith, N.H. News)
This article compiles several accounts of UFO sightings in Preston County and surrounding areas. Witnesses described round, multi-colored objects hovering, following cars, and moving silently. One account mentions a "nickle colored object, the length of a helicopter," which caused TV interference. The article also discusses the vastness of the galaxy and the possibility of extraterrestrial life, posing questions about what people are seeing.
MYSTERY LIGHT IN THE SKY (Lan Cashier Evening Post)
Mill boss James Nelson reported seeing a "strange blue light" over Coppull on October 30, 1981. He described it as a "bright blue flame travelling very fast" that disintegrated like a firework after a few seconds. He was mystified and could not explain what he saw.
UFO Spotted Over Dumbarton (Lennox Herald)
Former town councillor Jim Kerr described seeing a large, round, bright orange object with a dazzling white streak moving at astonishing speed over Dumbarton on October 21, 1981. He noted the object's speed and a bright white streak on its orange circular shape.
Was it a flying saucer? (Lennox Herald)
Kathleen Gillespie reported seeing a UFO on October 20, 1981, near Brucehill. She described a red light that hovered, then changed to a bright white color and shot off at high speed. She stated it was definitely not an aircraft and was round.
The Return of the Flying Cross (Western Independent, Plymouth)
This article suggests that the UFO season has started in the West Country with the return of the "Flying Cross," a phenomenon previously seen in Devon 14 years prior. Sightings in the South West are increasing, with some experts suggesting these crafts are from other solar systems. The "Flying Cross" is described as a brilliant star-shaped object with long and short rays, and some reports mention a huge fire-red tail or a red color with a trail of vapor.
'I was very frightened..' (Western Independent, Plymouth)
This piece details an encounter by Mr. and Mrs. Enoch Brown in Plymouth. They witnessed a huge brilliant light at the top of the civic centre, followed by a smaller light. They described flashes of brilliant red light engulfing the civic centre and a trail of vapor coming from the object. Mrs. Brown expressed being "very frightened."
UFO Sightings Reported In Stevens Mill Area (Goldsboro N.C. News Argus)
Several residents in the Stevens Mill area reported seeing an unidentified flying object hovering over a field on November 22, 1981. One resident, Mrs. Julia Jones, had previously seen the object sitting in the field. Witnesses described bright yellow and red flashing lights and noted the absence of sound. The object was seen moving towards Goldsboro. Seymour Johnson AFB reported no aircraft in the area at the time.
Those UFO's: What And Who's Out There? (Goldsboro N.C. News Argus - Editorial)
This editorial reflects on the numerous UFO reports from credible people that defy conventional explanation. It notes that many sightings go unreported due to fear of ridicule. The editorial concludes by questioning the nature of these phenomena and the possibility of extraterrestrial presence.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this collection of articles are the widespread nature of UFO sightings across the UK in late 1981, the variety of descriptions for the objects observed (from discs and lights to more complex shapes like crosses and fireballs), and the consistent reporting of unusual behaviors such as silent flight, high speeds, and sudden disappearances. There is a clear indication that these events are taken seriously by some authorities and UFO research groups, who are actively investigating. The editorial stance, particularly in the "Those UFO's: What And Who's Out There?" piece, suggests a belief that something unexplained is occurring, and that the credibility of witnesses should not be dismissed. The articles collectively highlight a period of heightened public interest and reporting of UFO phenomena.
This document compiles several newspaper clippings from November 1981, detailing various UFO sightings reported across the United Kingdom and one in the United States. The clippings are from the Stroud News and Journal, Bradford Telegraph & Argus, and Bolton Evening News.
Stroud News and Journal - November 12, 1981 ### Mystery Sightings This article reports on a sighting by Mr. Lionel Adams of Tattenham House, Butterrow Lane, Stroud, on a Thursday morning around 6:30 a.m. Mr. Adams observed a 'U'-shaped black object stationary in the sky. His wife Frances and children Peter (9) and Malcolm (7) also witnessed the object, described as being hundreds of feet in the air towards Thrupp. Peter attempted to get binoculars, but by the time he returned, the object had straightened up and disappeared over the horizon. Approximately 15 minutes later, a yellowish, quite bright light appeared in the sky. Mr. Adams contacted the Air Force station at Little Rissington and RAF Brize Norton, who were reportedly interested. He also contacted the British U.F.O. Organisation in London, which noted similar sightings had occurred a few times this century, with the last in the 1960s. Mr. Adams believes the initial object was man-made, but the mystery remains unsolved for his family.
Bradford Telegraph & Argus - November 14, 1981 ### Spiked UFO with Offspring This report features Mrs. Alma Metcalfe of Ruth House, Bradford, who previously dismissed UFO reports but witnessed a strange object herself. Around 6 p.m., while in her flat with her husband, she saw a bright light moving towards Low Moor. Using binoculars, she described the object as having at least seven large spikes radiating from its center. To her surprise, a smaller version of the object moved away from the main one, followed shortly by another. These smaller objects moved towards the Richard Dunn Centre, and the witnesses lost track of them. Mrs. Metcalfe expressed disbelief at what she saw.
Carpinteria Police Get 7 UFO Calls - October 11, 1981 This brief report from Carpinteria, Ventura County, California, details police receiving multiple calls regarding three orange lights hovering over houses. Dispatcher Linda Larette stated that by 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, the department had received at least seven calls from residents claiming to have seen UFOs. Ms. Larette noted that the lights were gone, but many people had seen them.
Bolton Evening News - November 11, 1981 ### It Was No Dream This letter to the editor, signed by Ann Crompton of St Helens Road, Bolton, refers to a previous article (BEN: Nov. 7) titled "Pinkish UFO Sets a Puzzle." Ms. Crompton confirms that her son and she witnessed a large, deep pink/red ball moving slowly over "Lantor" Mill on St Helens Road near Adelaide Street. The object was visible for approximately 30 seconds before suddenly disappearing, corroborating Mr. Slack's sighting.
Bolton Evening News - November 12, 1981 ### Bright Rays Came From UFO This letter, signed by Steven Gregory (16) and Paul Gregory (10) of Old Hall Lane, Daisy Hill, reports a sighting on Friday, November 6th, which they believe was the same UFO sighted by Mr. Alan Slack. Around 10 p.m., after visiting a chip shop, they observed a bright pinky-red light with rays emanating from it. The object appeared to hover and then descend behind houses, with its bright rays illuminating the houses for about 10-15 seconds. It then began to move away, seemingly travelling in the direction of Blackrod.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring theme throughout these reports is the observation of unidentified aerial phenomena, characterized by unusual shapes, lights, and behaviors. The articles present witness testimonies without overt skepticism, suggesting an interest in documenting these events. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on public accounts of UFO sightings, providing a platform for individuals to share their experiences and for corroboration between different witnesses and locations.
“In UFOology you're dealing with speculation and theory but most won't admit it. There's no hard core information to prove or disprove (claims)."
Key Incidents
A V-shaped UFO hovered over Morenci High School football field for an hour, witnessed by over 140 people, including a marching band and parents.
A gigantic, ball-shaped mother ship appeared south of Moscow, then streaked towards the capital and hovered over the secret Vnukovo Air Base, followed by smaller UFOs.
An airborne object was picked up on radar and observed by residents and weather service specialists, but no explanation was found.
At least a dozen witnesses reported seeing a series of bright, white lights with a greenish tint, described as a UFO, near the Warren County Airport.
Pilots of two commercial flights reported seeing a bright, round object with a smaller object inside, flying in the sky over Córdoba province.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center?
The Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center (A.P.C.I.C.) is a clipping service that publishes news releases monthly, focusing on UFOs and related phenomena.
What kind of UFO sightings are reported in this issue?
This issue reports on various sightings including V-shaped craft in Arizona, a massive UFO blitzing Moscow, strange lights over North Platte, Nebraska, and pilot sightings in Córdoba, Argentina.
Are there any reports of alien abductions?
Yes, the issue mentions a case investigated by Charles Wilhelm where three women were allegedly abducted and examined by aliens, with their accounts matching after hypnosis.
What is the general stance of UFO investigators mentioned?
Investigators like Charles Wilhelm and Charles L. Tucker aim to gather facts and bring them to the public, seeking not to approve or disapprove UFOs, but to understand the phenomena.
In This Issue
People Mentioned
- Harry R. Coheneditor
- S. Mac Williamsasst. editor
- Ron Smotekphoto analysis
- Richard Smoteksupplement research
- G. Roncoroniforeign correspondent
- Jeff Bellforeign correspondent
- George Humeforeign correspondent
- H.C. Petersenforeign correspondent
- Jean Siderforeign correspondent
- M. Moriforeign correspondent
- Clypeusforeign correspondent
- S. Gercekseverforeign correspondent
- +13 more
Organisations
- Aerial Phenomenon Clipping & Information Center
- Ohio UFO Investigators' League
- FBI
- KGB
- Pennsylvania Center for UFO Research
- Buhl Planetarium
- U.S. Steel Duquesne Works
- Scientific Bureau of Investigation
- New York Telephone
- International UFO Investigative Bureau
- Brazilian Air Force
- Aerolíneas Argentinas
- La Voz del Interior
- National Weather Service
- +28 more
Locations
- Cleveland, USA
- Argentina, Argentina
- Australia, Australia
- Denmark, Denmark
- France, France
- Japan, Japan
- Italy, Italy
- Turkey, Turkey
- West Germany, Germany
- Canada, Canada
- Loveland-Goshen area, USA
- Branch Hill-Guinea Pike, USA
- Ross, USA
- Dayton, USA
- +6 more