APRO BULLETIN

Magazine Overview

Title: APRO BULLETIN
Issue: Special Issue No. One
Date: October 1959
Publisher: APRO
Country: USA
Language: English

This special issue of the APRO Bulletin focuses on two main areas: the urgent need for donations to fund the analysis of mysterious metal samples, and the organization's response to Donald Keyhoe's recent accusations against the U.S. Air Force regarding UAP information.

Donations Needed For Metal Analysis

The bulletin begins by explaining that this special issue is being published to solicit contributions to cover unexpected expenses, specifically for the payment of a qualitative analysis of metal samples. These samples were obtained from a billboard that a "saucer" allegedly went through on August 19th. The metal is described as having "pitted places" and being "yellow." One piece is with a qualified laboratory, and another is in safekeeping. The APRO appeals to its readers for donations of one dollar or more to help defray the cost of this analysis, stating that the APRO budget does not allow for such expenditures.

Keyhoe Scores Another Hit!!

The second major section addresses the recent activities of Donald Keyhoe. The bulletin notes that readers are likely aware of Keyhoe's new book, a "LOOK" magazine preview, and his press conference on September 29th. Keyhoe is described as charging the Air Force with "duplicity" and "holding out news from the public." While radio and TV carried some of this information, it reportedly did not reach the newspapers. The bulletin suggests this is due to the Air Force's control over the press, preventing the public from knowing the full story.

Keyhoe's book reportedly contains facts that were usually accompanied by editorial notes intended to disqualify his statements, except for those who are "schooled in analytical reading." Keyhoe has accused the Air Force of believing that saucers are "interplanetary" and that investigators are divided into two groups: those who believe the public should know, and those who do not. He also accused the Air Force of withholding information regarding recent sightings.

Keyhoe invited intelligence officers to his conference to confirm or deny his accusations, but none attended. Subsequently, an Air Force spokesman announced that Keyhoe was misrepresenting facts and misquoting the Air Force. In response, Keyhoe issued a "dramatic challenge" to the Air Force to court-martial him, asserting that as a retired marine officer, he is still under military jurisdiction and could be violating military code if his claims were false. The bulletin notes that the Air Force did not accept his offer, as they believe their "exclusive knowledge" must be protected, even at the cost of losing face. They are perceived as controlling the press and able to say what they please.

The bulletin urges members to write to Senator McCarthy and their state representatives to protest what they deem a "disgusting state of affairs" where American citizens' rights are being "trampled underfoot by the military." The APRO states they have been watching this "play with increasing alarm and apprehension" and feel that "now is the time to act to bring about the truth."

Furthermore, the bulletin suggests that the individual who provided the billboard samples believes his attempts to have an analysis conducted were "deliberately hampered." According to his testimony, the Air Force allegedly "got the rest of the metal surrounding the hole" and deliberately "framed" him to get him into trouble with local authorities. This situation is promised to be a subject of "interesting reading in our next issue."

UP Wants Feature On A.P.R.O. Work

The United Press (UP) has contacted the local paper in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, requesting a feature article on the Director and APRO's work. After deliberation, the APRO has decided to submit a "small amount of material" with the suggestion that the UP not quote out of context or alter the material in a way that would "disqualify or ridicule" the organization. The APRO acknowledges that if the feature is done seriously, it could lead to press coverage, radio, and TV broadcasts. However, they emphasize that they have accomplished a great deal without publicity and do not depend on it for their survival or efficiency, preferring to avoid coverage that is done with a "tongue-in-cheek attitude."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the perceived secrecy and potential cover-ups by the U.S. Air Force regarding UAP phenomena, the importance of scientific analysis of physical evidence, and the need for public awareness and support for organizations like APRO. The editorial stance is one of strong advocacy for transparency, a critical view of military and governmental handling of UAP information, and a call to action for members to voice their concerns. The organization also demonstrates a pragmatic approach to media engagement, valuing accurate representation over mere publicity.