APRO Bulletin - 1956 09 15 - Sept (AFU)

Magazine Overview

This issue of the APRO Bulletin, dated September 15, 1956, is the official copyrighted publication of the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO), based in Alamogordo, New Mexico. It is issued bimonthly to members and is dedicated to solving the mystery of unidentified objects in the skies. The publication features articles on specific sightings, editorials on broader UFO-related issues, and personal notes from members.

SAUCER SNAPPED IN CALIF

The lead story details an incident on July 19, 1956, where 15-year-old Michael Savage photographed a disk-shaped object in San Bernardino, California. Michael, who had just received a camera for his birthday, took a spontaneous shot of the object as it receded rapidly. The photograph, described as one of the most detailed ever seen, was examined by Dr. Leonard M. Taylor, an anesthesiologist and UFO enthusiast, who confirmed its authenticity and noted that Air Force personnel from Norton AFB had reviewed the site and the negative. The article highlights the peculiar lack of widespread press coverage for this seemingly significant sighting, comparing it to a similar Rio de Janeiro saucer photograph from 1952. The photo is described as showing a disc with a cupola and a visible ring. Details about the shooting angle, distance, and surrounding environment are provided, along with notes from Michael's father vouching for his son's honesty. The APRO offers copies of the photograph to members for a nominal fee to cover costs.

UFO NABBED IN IRELAND

This section reports an incident in Ireland near Loch Neagh on September 7th, where Thomas J. Hutchinson encountered a flaming red, egg-shaped object. The object, approximately 3 feet high and 18 inches in diameter, was found lying motionless in a bog. It had two dark red marks and three dark red stripes, resting on a saucer-shaped base. When Hutchinson kicked it, it returned to its original position. When he tried to examine it closely, it began to spin. He then attempted to carry it to the police station, but it continued to spin. The object eventually rose quickly and disappeared into the clouds. The local police contacted the Royal Air Force (RAF), who stated the object did not belong to them. Reports from the Omaha World Herald and the Des Moines Register are cited, with the latter suggesting the object might have been a weather balloon, a theory the APRO dismisses due to the object's behavior and the lack of strong wind currents that would be necessary for a balloon to ascend rapidly.

MARS NEWS FROM S.A.

This section contains excerpts from a letter by Horacio Gonzales, APRO Representative in Caracas, Venezuela. Gonzales reports tracking strange "explosive clouds" on the Martian surface on September 5th, noting eight brilliant white clouds with a dark ring around one, visible for five minutes. He also mentions a conversation with Monsignor Doctor Rafael Arrias Blanco, Archbishop of Caracas, who stated that Catholic doctrine does not deny the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Gonzales notes a surge in media coverage about Mars and the possibility of intelligent life, with reports of UFO sightings increasing.

TWA PILOT CHALLENGES RUPPELT

This lengthy section is a letter from William Brenton Nash, a TWA pilot and UFO researcher, addressed to Mr. Ken Purdy of TRUE Magazine, critiquing an article by Captain Ruppelt. Nash argues that Ruppelt, a former editor of "Flying Saucers," is still adhering to official Air Force explanations that he believes are deceptive. Nash refutes Ruppelt's explanation of the Mantell case, particularly the 'screaming dive' and excessive speed, arguing that pilot physics would lead to oscillation, not disintegration. He also questions Ruppelt's dismissal of multiple UFO sightings as 'shaggy old balloons,' citing an instance where a balloon had no silhouette against the moon but was still visible. Nash expresses concern over the time it took for a fighter to intercept UFOs reported on radar and challenges Ruppelt's explanation of radar sightings as a 'temperature inversion,' suggesting it was a specific type of inversion that creates 'ground clutter.' Nash further criticizes Ruppelt for suggesting people want to believe in saucers and for the Air Force's alleged withholding of data, referencing Robert S. Allen's report of a 'fantastic, but true' AF document. He also points to the testimony in the Scoutmaster D. S. Desvergers case, where three Boy Scouts reported an object and a 'foul odor,' suggesting this odor experience was unique and predated similar reports.

AN EDITORIAL

The editorial section, labeled "An Editorial" rather than "The Editorial," addresses several key topics. It begins by stating the APRO Bulletin's policy to focus solely on sightings, opinions of qualified observers, and scientists, avoiding excessive discussion of theories or unrelated topics. The editorial then tackles the "UFO are radiation wipers" theory, attributed to Mosely, and dismisses it as unfeasible, arguing that eliminating radiation requires removing the source, which cannot be done by simply straining the atmosphere. The editorial also discusses the concept of classified information, outlining the requisites for access (Identification, Clearance, Need to Know) and suggesting that any classified UFO document obtained by individuals like Mosely was likely planted. The piece then moves to "Concerning Censorship," arguing that the Air Force and military engage in subtle control of public information and news media. Examples include the cancellation of a TV appearance for a UFO research couple due to Air Force sponsorship concerns and the alleged statement by Lt. Robert Olssen and J. Allen Hynek that UFO reports would be kept out of papers to combat mass hysteria. The editorial posits that news services are influenced by sponsors, leading them to avoid controversial UFO topics. It also touches on "Concerning Propaganda," citing examples of military meddling with public entertainment, such as an Air Force speaker on a radio program attributing UFO sightings to gas tanks dropped from jets, and alleged script interference in the movie "Rocket Ship X-M." A U.S. Army film is also mentioned as an example of propaganda, using a garbage can lid to dismiss the concept of flying saucers. The editorial concludes by questioning the Air Force's reliance on "experts" who misquote scientific opinion and highlights the contrast between the Air Force's focus on missiles and planes versus the capabilities of observed saucers.

"EARTH VERSUS THE FLYING SAUCERS" A Movie Review

This review critiques a movie titled "The Earth Versus the Flying Saucers," attended by the Director and Mr. Lorenzen. The reviewer finds the movie technically illogical and believes its primary purpose is to reassure the Air Force that their efforts to keep UFO news quiet are justified. The review notes the movie's depiction of saucers and a "saucerman" with a shrunken head, expressing regret that Donald Keyhoe's name was associated with it, suggesting he may not have been aware of the precise plot.

odds 'n' ends

This section includes several brief reports: A group in Sao Paulo, Brazil, is organized for UFO report evaluation. An article from the New York Sunday Mirror discusses a "foundation" headed by George Van Tassel in the Mojave Desert. A report from Chicago details an unusual shower of small frogs in Verona, Italy. The author, Frank Reid, questions why only frogs fell. The editor adds a personal account of witnessing small white objects falling with rain in Illinois, which hit the car and appeared transparent. A brief update on radio signals from Venus indicates no new information. Dr. John D. Kraus reiterates his findings on two types of signals received. Finally, Jackie Saunders is quoted questioning why the Air Force focuses on obsolete B-52 bombers instead of saucers, suggesting a connection between U.S. responsibility for saucers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the documentation of specific UFO sightings (California, Ireland), the analysis of photographic evidence, and the critical examination of official explanations and potential government/military cover-ups. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of official narratives, advocating for transparency and a serious investigation into UFO phenomena. The publication actively promotes the idea that UFOs are real, potentially extraterrestrial craft, and that efforts are being made to suppress this information from the public. There is a strong emphasis on witness testimony and the perceived inadequacy of explanations like balloons or mass hysteria. The APRO Bulletin positions itself as a source of unfiltered information, contrasting with what it perceives as propaganda and censorship in mainstream media and official channels.

Title: APRO Bulletin
Issue Date: September 15, 1956
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Odds 'n' Ends

This section of the APRO Bulletin covers a variety of UFO-related news and commentary. It begins by mentioning a new fad of "interplanetary emblem jewelry," a pin featuring a globe with flying saucers, which the APRO does not endorse due to its focus on legitimate saucer work.

A slogan sticker, "FLYING SAUCERS ARE FACT - NOT FICTION," sponsored by the Flying Saucer Review of London, is recommended for purchase. The bulletin also recommends two books: "The Science Book of Space Travel" by Harold Leland Goodwin, which discusses UFOs without ridicule, and "The Complete Book of Space Travel" by Albro Gaul, featuring a chapter on procedures for encountering alien occupants.

The issue notes a group in Chicago calling themselves the "Cosmic Circle of Fellowship," whose activities are seen as potentially hindering UFO research.

A significant report details a "frightening huge carcass" estimated at over 100 feet long and 15 feet wide that washed ashore in Yakutat, Alaska. Its origin and species are a mystery, with experts unable to identify it. News of this discovery leaked out weeks after it was found.

A cartoon from the Atkinson Graphic, Nebraska, is mentioned, depicting men on Mars watching a mushroom-shaped cloud erupt from Earth, with a commentary on the "UTTER INSANITY OF WAR."

Odds 'n' Ends (Continued)

The bulletin addresses the saucer-shaped aircraft tested at Edwards AFB, noting that it appears to be a conventional plane with a saucer on top and questions its ability to fly.

A report from Derita, North Carolina, describes a barn roof being blown off during calm weather, with no meteorological or explosive cause identified.

In Amarillo, Texas, the canopy and dead pilot of a Navy F7U Cutlass jet that crashed during a thunderstorm were found.

A letter to the editor of a Honolulu paper suggests a policy reversal by the Air Force regarding UFOs, with over 200 confirmed sightings reported from Oahu.

Recent UFO TV specials are mentioned: "Flying Objects at 3 o'clock high" on Kraft Theater and "Night of Terror in New Mexico" on Science Fiction Theater.

A book by Aime Michel, "The Truth about Flying Saucers," is reviewed. While found interesting, the reviewer notes that the "Plantier Theory" on saucer propulsion, lauded in the book, was previously submitted by Wilber Smith of Canada and publicized by Major Donald Keyhoe in 1954.

The issue includes a personal account from Laimon Mitris of Rouyn, Quebec, who admits to being the "Smallwood" mentioned in Gray Barker's book. Mitris recounts obtaining a piece of a supposed saucer, having it analyzed, and subsequently being threatened by an unidentified man.

There is a critique of Edith Kermit Roosevelt's review of Donald Keyhoe's latest book in the American Mercury, accusing her of lacking understanding of the subject.

Odds 'n' Ends (Continued)

An account from Frederick P. Cranston Jr., a specialist in nuclear spectroscopy at Los Alamos, suggests that unexplained UFOs are likely spaceships from other planets. The report of his lecture was noted for being printed in only a few local papers.

The movie "UFO" is reviewed positively for its representation of the UFO situation, though it is considered to be about four years behind current information. Donald Keyhoe is mentioned as deserving credit for his contributions.

Dr. Sukeyoshi Morikawa, a physics expert from the University of Tokushima, Japan, stated that scientific surveys show an increase in saucer sightings every three years and four months, though he believes most are dust clouds or meteors.

Reports of Russian-identified AF medium bombers violating Russian frontiers are discussed, with the US Air Force denying any violations. The possibility of these being UFOs is raised.

Odds 'n' Ends (Continued)

A request is made for members to contact Francis Browley for copies of various APRO Bulletins and other UFO periodicals.

The Civilian Saucer Intelligence of New York is mentioned for its work, and members are encouraged to support their lectures.

Brinsley Le Poer Trench is noted for taking over editorial duties of the British Flying Saucer Review, with his first issue being praised.

A new UFO research group, the Civilian Flying Saucer Intelligence in Seattle, Washington, is mentioned for publishing a mimeographed paper called the "Flying Saucer Review."

The APRO celebrates its upcoming sixth year in UFO research, asserting itself as the oldest saucer research organization and reflecting on its early struggles against ridicule and skepticism.

New members are welcomed, and it is explained that membership cards are being processed due to a backlog of work.

Letters

Mrs. Lorenzen proposes a theory that weather conditions are sometimes controlled by an intelligent force, and inquires about the APRO's view on this and the official Air Force attitude towards UFOs, predicting a change in favor of public information within five years due to rocket flight advancements.

Rasi Hritsco writes to Henry R. Luce of Time Magazine, criticizing Time's November 7th issue's treatment of flying saucers. Hritsco accuses the article of insinuating that believers in flying saucers are insane and suggests this contributes to a potential "swift and sure destruction of America." He criticizes the Air Force's past policy of ridiculing UFO observations and advocates for Donald Keyhoe's work, suggesting the Air Force practices lies and deception. Hritsco expresses sympathy for "space-ship dwellers" who have refused contact with humanity.

Letters (Continued)

Time's Reply to Mr. Hritsco acknowledges his comments and states that TIME's editorial stance aligns with the Air Force's view on flying saucers. TIME believes the Air Force's explanations have merit and does not see them as a conspiracy to hide facts. They mention the Air Force's recent elaborate study of the saucer phenomenon and agree with its findings.

The APRO's editorial comment on Time's reply disputes Time's claims. They argue that Time's reporters are incompetent and that the Air Force's Report #14 was a "put-up job." They also question the expense and thoroughness of the AF study and criticize Time for not appreciating Mr. Hritsco's position.

Those "Sonic Booms"

Reports of "sonic booms" are discussed, with incidents in Knoxville, Tennessee, attributed to "earth tremors," and in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, described as a "terrific explosion" and shock wave. A man familiar with sonic booms stated the shock was "decidedly different."

A clipping from Newport, Rhode Island, describes a "mysterious concussion" that seismologists could not explain, assuming it was a jet breaking the sound barrier. Similar events in Newport are also noted.

The section questions the military's regulations prohibiting sound barrier breakthroughs near populated areas and the discrepancy between these regulations and the reported phenomena.

An incident in Oakland, Nebraska, involved heavy concussion, broken windows, and a cracked cement wall. Conflicting reports from the Oakland Chamber of Commerce and air base officials regarding jet activity are highlighted, suggesting the Air Force might be "fibbing."

Concerning Mars

As Mars approached Earth on September 7th, astronomers and reporters closely followed observations. The bulletin notes that millions of people became interested, leading to speculation about what scientists were observing.

Conflicting theories about Mars are presented: McLaughlin of the University of Michigan believes Mars is in an formative period with green areas being volcanic ash. Dr. Gerard P. Kuiper of the University of Chicago believes Mars is a dying planet. Dr. E. C. Slipher, who observed Mars from South Africa, is convinced the green areas are vegetation and believes the "canals" exist.

A Japanese astronomer, Dr. Michikazu Onishi, also claimed to see the canals. The bulletin points out that UFO sightings increase when Mars is near Earth.

Scientists estimate that information from current Mars observations will take about five years to evaluate. Many people hope Mars supports life, indicating a desire to not be alone in the universe.

Concerning Mars (Continued)

Dr. Slipher commented that Mars' atmosphere is less dense than Mount Everest's and its oxygen content is smaller, questioning how animal life could adapt.

Russian astronomers reported observations suggesting a high order of plant life on Mars, noting a darkening of the southern area as spring advances, described as greenish.

Dr. Kuiper described a "yellowish dust cloud" obscuring Mars' surface as an "unusual phenomenon" due to its extraordinary size, reportedly several times larger than Texas. The bulletin notes that such dusty clouds are common but this one's shape (like a W or M) and size (250 miles wide, 3,000 miles long) matched a cloud phenomenon reported on Mars in 1954.

The bulletin concludes that unusual and "mysterious" things are happening on Mars and suggests a link to increased UFO activity.

From the Editors

The editors apologize for the delay in publication, citing the late arrival of a new addressograph and waiting for expected developments in South America. They mention the possibility of a special issue containing only sightings if reports continue at the current rate.

The APRO is open to articles on UFO theories, interpretations of Air Force policies, sightings, and reports from qualified individuals, including clergy, astronomers, physicists, and engineers.

Members are reminded to date and label their clippings to assist the staff in verifying information and giving credit.

Lesli Jaen Lorenzen, the Director's daughter, is welcomed to the staff, where she will handle addressing and sorting of bulletins.

Recent Sightings

This section details UFO visitations from the past eight weeks.

• Montana, United States:
• Bozeman: A woman described a 'silverish' object with an orangish light and humming sound, which turned, dipped, and vanished.
• Kalispell: A triangular object with a bright yellow glow was sighted. Air Force and civilian officials observed it, but it was not picked up on radar. Jets were seen to approach it, causing it to fade, then brighten as they moved away.

• Colorado, United States:
• Durango: Citizens observed a football-shaped object emitting a bluish-red radiation. The Air Force suggested it was a reflection of Mars, an explanation the bulletin dismisses.
• Denver: An oval disk with blazing white lights was seen hovering and moving west. It was described as larger than any airplane and clearly defined.
• Fort Collins: Residents watched a round, red object, described as slightly cigar-shaped and glowing red, which tapered to pink. It was observed for two nights but not the following two. A meteorologist suggested a rare mirage effect, but the recurrence made this unlikely.

• Arizona, United States:
• East of Kingman: A bright yellowish light, round in shape, was observed hovering for thirty minutes before disappearing completely. No noise was reported.

• New Mexico, United States:
• Holloman AFB: A pilot reported an object speeding past him at high velocity. Radar later picked up an object at 12,000-13,000 feet, similar to a balloon but in a different sector. The object descended to low altitude and was not seen again. The informant's anonymity is necessary.

The bulletin notes that information from Air Bases will be contributed, but sources cannot be named.

Title: APRO Bulletin
Issue Date: September 15, 1956
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the APRO Bulletin focuses heavily on recent UFO sightings, primarily from Venezuela, with additional reports from the United States and Mexico. The publication serves as a collection of witness accounts, news clippings, and editorial commentary on the phenomenon of unidentified flying objects.

Recent Sightings (Continued from Preceding Page)

The bulletin details numerous sightings that occurred in July, August, and September of 1956. These accounts are often attributed to local newspapers and provided by APRO correspondents.

Venezuela Sightings:

• Santa Monica, Venezuela (July 14, 1956): Mr. Alfredo Dier reported being awakened by a brilliant luminosity in his room. Investigating, he saw a disc-shaped object, like a big star, emitting a bluish-green light. Neighbors also observed the phenomenon, with one using binoculars.
• Coro, Falcon State, Venezuela (July 29, 1956): Inhabitants reported seeing a strange apparatus leaving a trail of smoke. The object swayed, moved horizontally, and then shot up vertically like a streak of lightning, disappearing rapidly after maneuvering for a few minutes. Seventy percent of the population reportedly observed its maneuvers.
• Caracas, Venezuela (August 5, 1956): A professor witnessed a luminous object falling near Santa Monica. He described it as extremely brilliant, leaving a smoke trail and emitting sparks. The object stopped, hovered, then shot away at high speed. The experience profoundly impressed him, leading him to take the matter of flying saucers seriously.
• Punto Fijo, Falcon State, Venezuela (September 9, 1956): Fishermen Manuel Pimentel and Jose Veraztegui y Pedro San Juan reported seeing luminous objects north of Punta. These objects cruised the sky in a North-South direction, traveled in straight lines, and left a luminous trail, appearing at 1 a.m. They did not descend like meteors but followed a determined path.
• Merida, Venezuela (September 3, 1956): In Santa Cruz de Mora, many persons sighted a luminous object similar to one previously seen by Marco Tulio Hernandez. The object was described as sphere-shaped with an enormous incandescent tail and bright yellow in color.
• Merida, Venezuela (September 6, 1956): A newspaper correspondent reported observing a glowing, reddish object, estimated to be 210 feet in diameter. It was accompanied by an intense green light, flew at low speeds at an estimated 2000 ft. altitude, changed formation, and sped out of sight. Observers felt the objects were surveying the city.
• Maracaibo, Venezuela (September 2, 1956): At Los Tanques, a borough of Sabaneta, a huge ball of fire was seen cruising above the town from southeast to northwest around 10 p.m.
• Calaboso, Venezuela (August 27, 1956): A number of citizens watched a fleet of flying saucers go over town from east to west. Objects were described as like "spinning tops" which left behind a trail of "phosphorescent smoke" that vanished rapidly. One witness, Leon Febres, was startled by the ground lighting up and saw a huge disc soar up at fantastic speed.
• Higuerote, Venezuela (September 3, 1956): Citizens at the beach watched disc-shaped objects that appeared as two plates fastened together, luminous, with windows around the edge. They were very brilliant, and one was seen to dive toward the ocean, then soar upwards just as it was about to strike the water. These objects traveled at high speed, leaving luminous trails and making no noise.
• Puna Atacame, Venezuela (August 8, 1956): New testimony from inhabitants of this desolate region (near Salta, Argentina) corroborates information about strange beings on the snowy caps of the Mac mountain. Witnesses reported human-like tracks of giant proportion in the snow and frozen sands. This coincided with a "colossal commotion" on the mountain, leading people to believe an aerial object had collided with it. A strange cigar-shaped object was reportedly seen colliding with the mountain. This follows sightings of "flying cigars" in Salar de Guisaro.
• Puna Saltena, Venezuela (August 13, 1956): Informants reported hearing strange cries during sunset and at the beginning of freezing creeks. They also found dead Condors and Eagles near their nests, with the nests ravaged. Giant humanlike tracks were found near the nests, not attributable to bears.

United States Sightings:

• Arkansas (July 15): A sighting was reported with a description strikingly similar to the Santa Monica, Venezuela sighting.
• California (November 7th prediction): British flying saucer experts predicted that flying saucers would come down to 10,000 feet over California on November 7th to send a message to Earth. Station KATY in San Luis Obispo agreed to go off the air to listen.
• San Francisco (September 22): A U.S. engineer, Kenneth M. Kellar, played tape recordings allegedly made directly from a flying saucer hovering over San Francisco. The tapes reportedly described life on Mars, warned against atomic experiments, and detailed an interplanetary government.

Mexico Sightings:

• Chihuahua City, Chihuahua, Mexico (September 7, 1956): Alfredo Monroy, Manuel Fierro, Cecilio Perez, and Carmelo Gonzales sighted a brilliant, speeding circular object about the size of a small plane. It had a cabin with windows and made no noise. Residents of Chihuahua City and Delicias also witnessed it, causing alarm.

Other Reports and Commentary:

• Tokyo, Japan: Japanese astronomer Tsuneo Saheki, a Mars expert, expressed belief that Mars is inhabited by living beings. He reported spotting numerous "canals" and "oases" on Mars, supporting the theory of life on the planet.
• Argensia, Newfoundland (January 1950): Two saucer reports were turned in by pilots. One described a large circular object, approximately 50 feet in diameter and 4 feet deep, rotating about a central axis and hovering over water. It then took off vertically at extremely fast speed.

Editorial Commentary and Member Information

The bulletin includes a section titled "DEADLINE" which contains various pieces of information and commentary.

• Editorial Stance on Experts: The editors express skepticism towards self-proclaimed "saucer experts," noting that "British experts have made as many boo-boos (errors) as anyone else." They advise members to "Don't believe it---until a little more proof is forthcoming," and criticize wire services and newspapers for carrying "nonsensical items about UFO."
• Member Conduct: The Director addresses issues with members who have falsified ages and professions on their application blanks, stating that this is a blow to the organization, especially concerning members who wish to remain confidential.
• APRO Operations: The bulletin requests members to label their clippings with the date and name of the paper. It also mentions that new members are joining at a rate of 5-10 per week. They are seeking authentic UFO photos and can provide glossy prints at cost.
• Future Sightings: The bulletin predicts an all-time high in sightings in October and November, urging members to send in every available sighting for evaluation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the sheer volume and variety of UFO sightings reported globally, with a particular focus on Venezuela in this edition. The descriptions often include luminous objects, unusual shapes, and remarkable aerial maneuvers. The editorial stance, as expressed in the "DEADLINE" section, is one of cautious skepticism. While acknowledging the phenomenon and compiling reports, the editors emphasize the need for verifiable proof and warn against sensationalism and unreliable "experts." They aim to provide factual reporting while encouraging critical thinking among their members.