AIR Report 1 - The Fund for CIA Research

Magazine Overview

This document is an "Associated Investigator's Report #1" forwarded via FidoNet, dated August 20, 1993, and posted by Don Allen. The report's primary focus is the alleged secret relationship between the Fund for UFO Research and the CIA, and the broader implications of disinformation within the UFO research community. The report is presented for informational purposes only, with the poster disclaiming any endorsement of its contents.

The Fund for CIA Research? or Who's Disinforming Whom?

The report asserts that the Fund for UFO Research, a prominent sponsor of UFO investigations, has maintained a secret relationship with the CIA and U.S. intelligence since at least 1979. Dr. Bruce Maccabee, an optics and laser specialist and a founder of the Fund, has been meeting with CIA officials since 1979, briefing them on UFO matters. The most recent briefing mentioned occurred on May 28, 1993, at CIA Headquarters in Langley, Virginia. These briefings covered topics such as "residual magnetic effects" allegedly discovered after an incident near Gulf Breeze, Florida, as well as "MJ-12," the Roswell incident, UFO photos and films, physiological effects on witnesses, psychic phenomena, and UFO researchers.

Maccabee's Briefings and the "MJ-12" Group

Maccabee described a meeting at CIA headquarters where he briefed personnel on the supposed "MJ-12" group, a topic detailed in documents revealed by William L. "Bill" Moore. Moore later claimed to be a government disinformation agent. Maccabee also briefed the CIA on their own UFO files released under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Following this, a CIA official named Ron Pandolfi reportedly told Maccabee that he had "created a lot of spies" within the CIA, leading to internal investigations and file-combing related to the "MJ-12" group. Maccabee even persuaded Pandolfi to search for "MJ-12" references in the files of Roscoe HillenKoetter, an early CIA director, but the results were reportedly negative.

Early Investigations and FOIA Lawsuits

Maccabee's involvement with the CIA began in early 1979 after he investigated a filmed "UFO" in New Zealand. He presented this film, which depicted a "jumpy blob of nocturnal light," to CIA officials, claiming it was probative evidence of UFOs. Subsequently, Maccabee shared details of his CIA meeting with W. Todd Zechel, founder of Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS). Zechel, along with attorney Peter Gersten and Ground Saucer Watch, had filed a FOIA lawsuit against the CIA in September 1977. This suit resulted in the CIA releasing over a thousand documents in December 1978, which they had previously claimed did not exist.

CIA's UFO Files and Deception

In recorded conversations, Maccabee disclosed that a CIA official, the custodian of UFO files, stated there were approximately 15,000 UFO-related documents, though only "two or three thousand were really interesting." These documents were reportedly with the CIA's Freedom of Information Staff. The report notes that the CIA was ordered to search all its files for UFO documents as part of an agreement with Zechel and Gersten. Zechel had threatened criminal prosecution for false replies to FOIA requests, leading the CIA to agree to cooperate, though they only accounted for 1,000 documents and claimed to withhold 57.

Analysis of documents released in December 1978 revealed continued deception by the CIA. Brad Sparks, a CAUS researcher, found references to over 200 other UFO-related documents the CIA failed to acknowledge. The CIA had also selectively released documents, censoring many and excluding findings from emergency UFO studies conducted in 1952, 1957, 1965, 1967, and others, which involved covert agents and the Condon Committee study.

A Missed Opportunity and Maccabee's Role

In March 1979, after the CIA filed deceptive affidavits, Gersten sought an Order to Show Cause why the CIA should not be held in contempt of court. During this process, Maccabee made revelations to Zechel about a CIA official involved with UFO files. However, attempts to enlist Maccabee's cooperation with the suit were met with refusal and obfuscation. Maccabee allegedly misled Brad Sparks about the location of the briefing and the identity of the CIA employees, making Zechel's information appear suspect. The report suggests Maccabee intended to cooperate with the CIA on an ongoing basis, possibly becoming their "UFO-man-on-call."

Maccabee's contention that the CIA official was merely guessing about the 15,000 documents was questioned, as the custodian would likely know the extent of the collection. The report concludes that Maccabee "treasures his secret relationship with the CIA more dearly than he feels any need to be forthright about matters vitally important to objective researchers."

Christopher C. "Kit" Green and the "MJ-12" Connection

In a recent interview, Maccabee confirmed the CIA official's name was Christopher C. "Kit" Green, who later became chief of the Biomedical Sciences Department at General Motors. Green received the National Intelligence Medal for work on a "classified project" from 1979 to 1983, coinciding with his meetings with Maccabee at CIA headquarters. Green described his CIA work as a "Scientific Advisor on the Advisory Board to the Directorate of Intelligence, CIA."

According to Maccabee, Green sought out Bill Moore in 1988 or 1989. Green became "BLUEJAY" in Moore's network, volunteering for special missions, including an attempt to contact Robert Gates, then Director of Central Intelligence. This involved using a code word or phrase, a scenario described as being "right out of an old pulp spy novel." Maccabee stated Green "bungled" this attempt.

Dr. Maccabee, Bill Moore & MJ-12

The report critically reviews Bill Moore, his associate Rick Doty, and their "highly dubious claim" of being ordered to spy on Paul Bennewitz. It questions Maccabee's judgment in continuing to support and associate with Moore, labeling the "MJ-12" as a "hoax."

The Paul Bennewitz Case

Paul Bennewitz, a man with a history of mental illness, claimed to have observed and filmed alien spacecraft activity near Kirtland AFB. Robert Hastings, a UFO lecturer, found Bennewitz's films to be crude hoaxes. Bennewitz's family confirmed he had been repeatedly hospitalized for mental illness. The report suggests Bennewitz's claims were a product of his "jumbled mind."

Sgt. Richard Doty, an AFOSI agent, allegedly exploited Bennewitz's situation. Doty, who had a history of concocting phony UFO stories, met Bennewitz and invited Jerry Miller, a former investigator for Project Blue Book, to meet him. Miller concluded Bennewitz was a "nut case."

Doty and Moore's Disinformation Scheme

Doty, not discouraged, concocted reports incorporating Bennewitz's stories with embellishments and sought out Bill Moore. They found common ground in their desire to make money from UFOs. Moore, who had previously bragged about making money from UFOs, began working with Doty. They produced documents supporting crashed saucer recoveries, which had greater financial value than Bennewitz's sightings.

Documentary filmmaker Linda Howe was shown a purported "Presidential Briefing Paper" by Doty, detailing crashed saucers and "Extraterrestrial Biological Entities" (EBES), a term invented by Bennewitz. Howe was allegedly told she was selected by a "super-secret control group known as 'MJ-12'" to disclose information about aliens.

Moore and Doty devised a scheme to disguise their collaboration. Doty phoned Howe, falsely claiming she had told Moore they had slept together. This led to Howe contacting Moore, who denied the claim but suggested they "compare notes" on their "MJ-12" work.

Moore used this method to reinforce Doty's disclosures without appearing as a co-conspirator, circulating bogus material to credulous outsiders like Howe and Lee Graham to obscure the origin of the "documents."

The "Briefing Paper" and its Contradictions

Moore gave a copy of the "briefing paper" to Capt. Bob "Condor" Collins, who read parts of it to Howe, who recognized it. Collins claimed to have received information from U.S.A.F. Lt. Col Ernie Kellerstrauss. Moore proposed working with Howe to exploit "MJ-12's" revelations, aiming to "get very rich."

Moore also conferred with Brad Sparks, asking about promising crashed saucer cases. Sparks mentioned the Roswell incident and a 1950 case near the Texas-Mexico border, researched by Todd Zechel. Moore obtained two manuscripts from Zechel under suspicious circumstances.

The "briefing paper" was circulated by Jaime Shandera, a TV producer and friend of Moore's, in December 1984. The report notes contradictions in the description of the 1950 crash, with Zechel's earlier report placing it near Laredo, Texas, and a later report near Del Rio, Texas, with differing dates. Moore resolved these by stating the location as "El Indio-Guerrero" and the date as "6 December 1950."

The report suggests Moore created the briefing paper partly out of animosity towards Zechel, who had criticized the Roswell incident. An article in 'Fate' magazine by Jerome Clark described how the "documents" came to light, with Moore claiming to have copied them from a man who appeared at his motel room.

Shifting Identities and Disinformation

Moore began to distance himself from Rick Doty, recognizing him as a liar. He attempted to shift the "Falcon" identity to someone else, suggesting it was a Defense Intelligence Agency employee. The report notes that the new "Falcon" told Moore the same things as the old "Falcon," with the spotlight now off Doty.

When Paul Bennewitz's mental instability became evident, Moore claimed to be a disinformation agent assigned to spy on and confuse Bennewitz, a tactic to protect Doty and himself should the "Presidential Briefing Paper" and "MJ-12" documents be proven bogus. This is compared to the "just following orders" defense used by Nazis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The report suggests that the events described are the result of a "giant conspiracy designed to disinform, confuse and mislead" researchers. However, it concludes that Moore and Doty fabricated the MJ-12 hoax independently for personal gain. The author expresses concern that Moore will retreat behind a "controlled agent" persona as the hoax unravels. The report criticizes the UFO community for celebrating hoaxers and vilifying those who expose them, citing the work of Greenwood and Fawcett of CAUS as responsible.

The report ends with a section titled "The Sea Gull & The Pellican," referring to Dr. Maccabee's activities and Bill Moore's "foolish aviary."

This document, titled 'UFO CIA Research,' appears to be an investigative report or article from a publication focused on UFO phenomena, dated May 23, 2014, based on the URL. It critically examines the conduct and alleged associations of Dr. Bruce Maccabee within the UFO community, particularly his relationship with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and its potential implications for UFO research and disinformation.

Re-examining the MJ-12 Affair and Dr. Maccabee's Role

The article begins by questioning Dr. Maccabee's involvement in the MJ-12 affair, specifically his publication of a paper in 1985 titled 'UFO Landings Near Kirtland AFB or Welcome to the Cosmic Watergate.' This report, co-authored by Bill Moore and printed on FUFOR stationery, investigated an alleged incident described in the Kirtland Landing Document dated September 9, 1980. The document, released by HQ/AFOSI, is presented as a fraud created by 'Doty.' The author suggests that Dr. Maccabee's support for this document lent credence to Doty's claims at a crucial time, potentially saving researchers significant time and effort had Maccabee exposed the fraud earlier. Dr. Maccabee now privately admits that the MJ-12 mess is 'probably a hoax' but justifies his stance by maintaining the existence of a secret control group, a MJ-12 'by any name.' The article questions when Maccabee knew the material was fraudulent and whether this was before he provided Stan Friedman with $16,000 of 'Fund money.'

Funding Decisions and CIA Influence

The document highlights a rejected proposal by Todd Zechel to sue the CIA under FOIA for 15,000 documents described by Maccabee's friend, Kit Green. Zechel requested a paltry $500 for this effort, with a volunteer attorney. In contrast, the 'Fund' later provided $16,000 to Stan Friedman to validate the MJ-12 documents. The author questions the motives behind these decisions, suggesting that Maccabee's CIA contacts might have subtly influenced him, perhaps by hinting at the existence of MJ-12, leading to the large grant to Friedman and the rejection of Zechel's modest proposal.

'One Last Quickie': Moore and Doty's Tactics

This section criticizes Bill Moore for using 'silly code names' and running around with individuals connected to the government, likening it to a child playing spy. It asserts that these individuals lack direct knowledge of UFO events and mostly recirculate stories originated by Moore and Doty. Moore's alleged goal was to create an aura of mystique and obscure the 'bogus nature of his discoveries.' The text also details Doty's alleged track record of financial improprieties, including being thrown out of AFOSI, demoted to cook, and ultimately forced out of the Air Force. His entry into the UFO field is presented as part of a pattern of misconduct, where he exploited the credulity of ufologists.

The 'Free' Book Swindle and Moore's Later Career

In late 1991, Moore and Doty allegedly perpetrated another swindle. Moore invited FOCUS newsletter subscribers to send $25 for a 'free copy' of a book he was writing with Doty and Jaime Shandera, titled 'The Scientist, the Government & UFOs...Personal Recollections of the Paul Bennewitz Affair...A Case Study in Disinformation.' The book was to cover topics like government cover-up, disinformation, UFO abductions, alien bases, and secret treaties. Reportedly, hundreds sent in money, but FOCUS promptly went out of business, and the book was never printed. Moore then became the 'executive editor' of FAR OUT magazine, published by Larry Flynt, where he published articles by friends like Bruce Maccabee. The author suggests that Moore, now gainfully employed, might make refunds but is unlikely to confess to creating the 'single biggest hoax in ufology.'

Gulf Breeze Case and Maccabee's Judgment

Dr. Bruce Maccabee is identified as a primary promoter of the Gulf Breeze case, known for his forceful technical evaluation of photographic evidence, deeming a hoax explanation unlikely. However, the article states that most serious researchers now conclude the case is a hoax. The author questions Maccabee's personal and professional judgment, wondering if he became emotionally involved with the participants (Ed and Frances Walters) or if his technical ability is poor. It is speculated that his public support for the case might have been encouraged by his intelligence contacts, serving the CIA's interest in keeping UFO phenomena out of public domain. It is noted that Ron Pandolfi stated Ed Walters was a 'total fraud.'

Inappropriate Relationships and CIA Interests

The article argues that even if Dr. Maccabee is an honest proponent, his secret relationship with the CIA is inappropriate, given his status with the Fund for UFO Research and his public exposure. The CIA's interest is seen as potentially maintaining serious investigation of UFO phenomena out of the public domain.

An Embarrassing Protege': Robert Oechsler

Dr. Maccabee is also associated with Robert Oechsler, described as mercenary, a clown, a fraud, and a con-man. Oechsler allegedly attempted a pyramid scheme and represented himself as a former 'NASA Mission Specialist.' He participated with Maccabee in photographic analysis of the Gulf Breeze material. Oechsler has made claims about secret government UFO projects, including anti-gravity chambers and anti-alien defense installations. These claims were published by Timothy Good and others. It is stated that Oechsler has intimated to Walt Andrus that he fabricated some material. Oechsler is also associated with the 'Guardian' case in Ontario, Canada, which is described as a very poor quality hoax involving an alleged alliance between evil aliens and the Red Chinese.

The author suggests that if there were an official policy of ridicule, such information from opportunists like Oechsler or credulous individuals like Linda Moulton Howe would be beneficial to intelligence agencies, acting as media contacts.

Maccabee's Involvement in the 'Guardian' Case

Dr. Maccabee made at least one trip to Ontario to investigate the 'Guardian' case, and it is unknown if Fund for UFO Research monies were used. Oechsler made at least five trips. The article notes Maccabee's clear support for the validity of the 'Guardian' case, having spoken about it on television and at a UFO conference. The prospect of CIA personnel being briefed on such cases is described as frightening.

Operation Right to Know and Fund Opposition

Operation Right to Know, a UFO group seeking to end secrecy, organized a demonstration at the White House. Members of the Fund for UFO Research, particularly Fred Whiting, objected to this demonstration, reportedly discouraging MUFON's participation. The author questions the philosophical grounds for this objection, given Dr. Maccabee's relationship with the CIA.

Clear & Present Danger: Larry Bryant's Removal

Perhaps the most troubling episode cited is Dr. Maccabee's removal of Larry Bryant, a co-founder of the Fund for UFO Research. Bryant's request for FBIS translations from the CIA angered the agency, and Maccabee was scolded by Pandolfi, who stated Bryant's action could jeopardize the 'Fund's relationship with the CIA.' Bryant subsequently received a letter from Maccabee terminating his membership. This is seen as an example of Maccabee valuing his CIA relationship over friendship and services.

Maccabee Disinforms FUFOR

While Maccabee briefed CIA members, he did not extend the same courtesy to other Fund members. Polls of Fund members indicated they were unaware of the full extent of his dealings with Pandolfi and the CIA. The Fund's newly elected chairman, Richard Hall, attempted to discourage Maccabee's overtures to the CIA, agreeing that they created an appearance of impropriety and a conflict of interest. Hall was also perplexed by cases Maccabee promoted, like Gulf Breeze and 'Guardian.' Hall indicated steps would be taken to sever ties between the Fund and the U.S. Intelligence community.

In Summary: Limited Gains from CIA Cooperation

After 14 years of cooperation with the CIA, Maccabee has reportedly obtained only a handful of FBIS translations of Soviet news accounts of UFO sightings. These reports were allegedly leaked to the media by the CIA to embarrass the Soviets, and similar information is available through CNN or the National Technical Information Service. The article concludes that it is improper for Dr. Maccabee or the Fund for UFO Research to maintain a clandestine relationship with the CIA, especially while the Fund solicits evidence of government UFO cover-up. The author questions how the Fund can be trusted to protect proprietary interests when its top official is briefing CIA officials.

Associated Investigators Group

The Associated Investigators Group is dedicated to investigating U.S. Government involvement with UFOs and communicating findings to researchers. Its members have experience as investigators, some with government or civilian fields, and are independent. Membership is by invitation only, and members wish to remain pseudonymous until investigations are complete. The report is based on interviews and discussions, with potential errors attributed to misrepresentations by subjects. Future issues will cover 'Crashed saucers,' 'Mind Control,' and 'CIA UFO Projects.' The group requests not to be impeded by guessing identities or bothering involved people.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are the alleged manipulation and disinformation within the UFO community, particularly concerning the MJ-12 phenomenon and specific cases like Gulf Breeze and Guardian. There is a strong critical stance against Dr. Bruce Maccabee, portraying him as potentially compromised by his relationship with the CIA. The editorial stance suggests that certain individuals and organizations within the UFO field may be unwitting or witting participants in intelligence agency efforts to control or discredit UFO information. The document advocates for transparency and questions the motives behind funding decisions and public support for certain UFO cases when potential intelligence agency influence is present. The Associated Investigators Group positions itself as an independent entity seeking truth, distinct from potentially compromised organizations.