the apro bulletin

Magazine Overview

Title: The APRO Bulletin
Issue: Vol. 29, No. 10
Date: October 1981
Publisher: Aerial Phenomena Research Organization, Inc. (APRO)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of The APRO Bulletin delves into UFO reports, with a significant focus on "New Mexico Repeat Reports" investigated by Robert E. Engberg, P.E. It also includes a critical examination of James Oberg's stance on UFO cases, book reviews, and various sighting reports from around the world.

New Mexico Repeat Reports

The lead article by Robert E. Engberg, P.E. presents three significant UFO sightings experienced by Sam Jones in New Mexico. Jones, a 66-year-old retired individual with a background in engineering and avionics, provides detailed accounts.

First Sighting (August 1951)

Near Golden, New Mexico, Sam Jones, while working on State Route #10, observed a bright metallic, cigar-shaped object motionless at about an 88° vertical angle for ten to twenty minutes. The object appeared to be about 300-400 feet away and had no discernible openings or noise. It was later described as being similar in proportion to a Roitan Cigar held at arm's length.

Second Sighting (November/December 1958)

Near the Saw Tooth Mountains on US Hwy 60, Sam Jones, along with Clyde Haddock and Marian Gordon, witnessed two connected objects with metallic beams. The objects, described as similar in geometry to a Nautilus submarine viewed from the side, approached and then turned abruptly north, picking up speed and disappearing.

Third Sighting (April 1967)

This sighting, referred to as the "Socorro sighting," involved Sam Jones and his associate Joe Holland. They observed a yo-yo shaped object, approximately 300 feet in diameter with a band of rainbow colors, approaching from the direction of Strawberry Peak. The object hovered above the Institute of Mining and Technology School in Socorro, emitting a powerful 150-foot diameter beam of white light. It then ascended vertically and disappeared.

UFO Scoffer Oberg and His "Yardstick"

Authored by Richard W. Heiden, this article critically examines James Oberg's views on UFO sightings, particularly those by astronauts. Heiden questions Oberg's accuracy and thoroughness, citing Oberg's Omni magazine columns. Heiden argues that Oberg's rationale for dismissing astronaut UFO cases implies a broader skepticism that is not always supported by facts. The article points out specific instances where Oberg allegedly made factual errors or misrepresented information, such as his comments on Dr. Leopoldo Diaz and Susan Kolb, suggesting Oberg's research lacks depth and verification.

Book Reviews

Casebook of a UFO Investigator by Raymond E. Fowler

This review highlights Fowler's personal memoir, covering ufology from 1947 to the present. It praises the book for its detailed investigations, application of the scientific method, and analysis of witness characteristics. The review notes the book's examination of the Exeter, N.H. incident, emphasizing the need to question data and not accept official explanations without critical checking.

Missing Time by Budd Hopkins

Written by artist Budd Hopkins, this book details five abduction cases recalled through hypnotic regression. The review mentions the emotional experiences shared by the abductees and the psychotherapist, Dr. Aphrodite Clamar. Hopkins suggests that many more individuals may have been unknowingly abducted, and that governments should prepare the public for extraterrestrial presence.

Other Reports and Features

Creegan in Australia

Dr. Robert Creegan reports on his findings in Australia, noting that UFO reports are generally investigated by civilian agencies, with the Australian Army sometimes responding to landing reports. He mentions alleged UFO "nests" and circular ground markings in desert regions, attributing them to UFOs, though acknowledging other possible explanations.

Sprinkle Appears on "That's Incredible"

Dr. Leo Sprinkle, an APRO consultant, was filmed for the TV show "That's Incredible" in connection with the Betty Cash and Vicki Landrum UFO experience.

"USOs and World History" by Robert F. Creegan, Ph.D.

Dr. Creegan posits that UFO reports have a profound effect on world history, influencing military technology (e.g., stealth aircraft) and driving the search for advanced propulsion systems. He also notes the positive impact on witnesses' personal lives and capacities, suggesting that an intelligence beyond human is involved, and that the "establishment" struggles to make contact.

Press Reports

This section compiles several brief sighting reports:

• California (1975): John Clark and Ralph Johnson reported seeing a 9-foot tall object gliding silently in Sequoia National Park.
• Kent, England (1981): Joanne Baron and Caroline Johnston saw a strange object with a pointed hat and cloak moving slowly across water.
• Arkengarthdale, England (1981): Clark Stones observed an oval object moving erratically.
• Alabama (1981): Eight eyewitnesses reported a "ball of fire" resembling a burning airplane or helicopter.
• Pennsylvania (1981): Cheryl and Bruce Hopkins saw brilliant red and green lights hovering near the ground.
• Southeast United States (1981): Residents reported a noise similar to a sonic boom or earthquake.
• New Jersey (1981): Multiple reports described an unusual object hovering, with a red light that moved and disappeared.
• Midland Park, USA (1981): Debra Vinci reported an object shrouded in red and green lights hovering above a church.
• Iowa (1981): Randy Reynolds saw a large orange disc that changed shape and disappeared.

Scientific UFO Study in Missouri

This section details Dr. Harley D. Rutledge's seven-year scientific study of UFOs in Missouri. Rutledge interviewed witnesses, studied sightings and photographs, and used scientific equipment. He concluded that UFOs could be extraterrestrial, paranormal, or a divine signal. His team noted a strange "interaction" with UFO watchers, including feelings of being observed.

Follow-Up

Coral E. Lorenzen provides an update on the Cash-Landrum case, suggesting ionizing and photon radiation may have caused the injuries. Questions remain about the identity of accompanying helicopters, with possibilities including military exercises, unknown craft, or UFOs being "herded."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The APRO Bulletin consistently advocates for rigorous investigation and documentation of UFO phenomena. It champions the scientific approach while also acknowledging the more mysterious and potentially paradigm-shifting aspects of UFO encounters. The publication appears critical of those who dismiss UFO reports without thorough examination, as exemplified by the critique of James Oberg. There is a clear stance in favor of open inquiry and a belief that UFOs represent a significant phenomenon with potentially world-historical implications. The editorial stance is one of serious investigation and a desire to uncover the truth behind the UFO mystery.