Awareness - 1978 - Vol 07 No 4 - Winter

Magazine Overview

AWARENESS, published by CONTACT (UK) as Volume 7, Number 4, Winter 1978, is a publication dedicated to ufology. The issue features a range of articles, from editorial commentary and organizational directories to in-depth analyses of UFO phenomena, historical cases, and prophetic interpretations.

Editorial

The editorial section, dated January 18th, 1979, recounts a special debate on UFOs held in the House of Lords. Lord Clancarty, the founder president, opened the debate by presenting a history of the UFO phenomenon, official involvement, and the increasing frequency of UFO activity and landings. He questioned whether the British government was investigating UFOs and whether it would issue a statement to reassure the public. The debate was attended by the editor and treasurer, offering a perspective that differed from the news media's coverage. Lord Trefgarne expressed disbelief in UFOs, attributing sightings to misidentifications. In contrast, Earl Kimberley argued strongly for the existence of UFOs, suggesting they were likely extraterrestrial and that an official study was overdue. Viscount Oxford examined the issue from various viewpoints, noting that UFO behavior seemed to transcend conventional physics. Other speakers, including Lord Rankeiller and Lord Davis of Leek, supported the belief in UFOs and encouraged official study. Lord Strobolgi, representing the government, stated that no special UFO study center would be established but suggested liaison with private UFO organizations, acknowledging their work in cataloging UFO episodes. The debate concluded with participants agreeing it was worthwhile, signaling a potentially new and favorable reaction to the subject within the assembly.

The editorial also highlights the success of the year's AGM and annual lectures in Oxford, with hundreds turned away, and anticipates the first International UFO Congress in London. It urges ufologists to seize these opportunities for consolidation and to yield significant ufological results.

Peripheral Urology No: 5 - Seers, Saints, and Sunspots - A Connection?

Authored by Martin Straw, this article explores potential connections between celestial phenomena and UFO activity. It references a 1976 paper by J.B.Delair that found a correlation between sunspot cycles and UFO activity, suggesting a ten-year cycle for UFO waves that is slightly ahead of the sunspot cycle. The article then delves into the prophecies of Nostradamus, specifically a prediction for "the year 1999 and seven months" involving a "great King of Terror" arriving from the sky. The author examines Nostradamus's life and other prophecies, noting that while some are vague, others show remarkable accuracy, such as predictions related to the Great Fire of London and events in Persia in 1727. The article also discusses the prophecies of St. Malachy, which suggest the end of the papacy around 2014 AD, or potentially as early as 1999, depending on papal reign lengths. Straw proposes that the Nostradamus prophecy and St. Malachy's timeline might refer to the same year and a decisive UFO influence on human development, with the "King of Terror" potentially symbolizing a significant, perhaps disruptive, event related to the end of the papacy.

The article concludes by noting that the current pattern of sunspot activity aligns with these suggestions, urging preparation for a more interesting twenty-first century.

Publications Consulted

A list of publications consulted for the article includes works by J.B.Delair, Erika Cheetham, Andrew Tomas, and manuscripts of St. Malachy's prophecies, along with "Collin's Concise Encyclopedia".

Skyquest Cassette Tapes

This section advertises "Skyquest Cassette Tapes" available as C60s, narrated by Norman Oliver. These tapes cover "Close Encounters" and include recorded witness excerpts, with CE 29 being restricted to purchasers over 18 years of age. The tapes are priced at £2.90p each, with an order address provided in London.

UFO Surveillance of North American Airforce and Radar Installations

Communicated by Miss Vera Perry, this article details a perceived increase in UFO inspections of North American military (especially airforce) centers. It paraphrases an article by Michael Satchell from "Parade" magazine. The report highlights an incident on October 27th, 1975, at Loring Air Force Base, Maine, USA, where a military police sergeant observed a strange craft with peculiar lights. The object was tracked by radar for over 90 minutes, causing a security alert and requests for fighter jets, which were denied. The incident involved communication with the Pentagon and the CIA, who had no immediate explanation. This event is presented as a precursor to a series of unexplained events over the following three and a half weeks at various SAC bases and NORAD radar installations in the US and Canada.

The Contact (UK) Directory

The issue includes a directory for The Contact (UK), listing key personnel such as the National Chairman, Treasurer, Secretary, Membership Secretary, Public Relations Officer, Research Enquiries contacts, Senior Research Officer, Librarian & Research Programme Co-ordinator, and Archivist, along with their respective addresses and contact details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the growing interest and debate surrounding UFOs, particularly within official circles like the House of Lords. There is a strong emphasis on the potential for UFOs to be extraterrestrial in origin and the need for serious, organized study. The magazine also explores the intersection of ufology with prophecy and celestial phenomena, suggesting that future events, possibly around the year 1999, may be significant for both humanity and the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for greater awareness, research, and open discussion of UFOs, while also acknowledging the importance of documented evidence and the work of private organizations in the field. The publication aims to keep its readership informed about international developments and research in ufology.

This issue of UFO Times, dated October 1979, focuses on declassified US and Canadian Air Force files concerning numerous UFO sightings and pursuits by military personnel during the 1970s. It highlights incidents involving F-106 interceptors and KC-135 tankers chasing unidentified aircraft that exhibited extraordinary speed and evasive capabilities. The magazine also discusses the role of organizations like Citizens Against UFO Secrecy and NICAP in obtaining these reports through the Freedom of Information Act. Several specific cases are detailed, including encounters over Loring AFB, Malmstrom AFB, and Minot AFB, as well as international incidents in Iran. The issue also features a re-examination of the Captain Thomas Mantell case based on new witness testimony.

USAF UFO Files Revealed

The article details a period where dozens of US and Canadian Air Force personnel observed, tracked, and pursued unidentified aircraft or brightly lit objects. These craft demonstrated the capacity to fly and hover at great speeds and lofty heights. Teams of F-106 interceptors and helicopters were deployed, and KC-135 tankers were used in pursuits over bases like Malmstrom, Falconbridge, Loring, and Wurtsmith. Despite these efforts, no air force pursuer could get close enough to identify the intruding craft, as they would switch off their lights, take evasive action, or rapidly outpace the military aircraft.

The information presented has been pieced together from Air Force files, some classified and others declassified under the Freedom of Information Act. A significant portion of these documents was obtained by W. Todd Zechel of Citizens Against UFO Secrecy, an organization that sues government branches for the release of UFO-related reports. The National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) also contributed. The article suggests that the USAF's reluctance to release documents or acknowledge investigations stems from a wariness of becoming embroiled in the UFO controversy. It notes that the USAF operated a special unit for UFO reports from 1947 to 1968, and while it officially ceased open investigations after the Condon Committee findings, it is presumed that another unit continued to monitor the phenomenon.

Specific Incidents Detailed

On October 29th, 1975, mysterious objects returned to inspect Loring AFB in Maine, flying without lights. Radar tracked an object heading for the weapons storage area, prompting the dispatch of a helicopter. The helicopter got within 1000 feet, but visual acquisition was not achieved. Radio contact was lost during this encounter. A report from the 42nd. Bombardment Wing stated the object demonstrated "clear intent in the weapons storage area" and was piloted by a "smart and most capable aviator."

Two nights later, a similar incident occurred over Loring, with an unknown intruder craft spotted three times, again eluding helicopters.

On the same night (October 30th/31st), Wurtsmith AFB in Michigan was visited by an elusive object showing interest in its weapons storage facilities. An airborne tanker pursued, discovering two objects flying in trail formation or hovering independently at high speeds, but positive identification was not achieved.

Beginning November 7th for four consecutive nights, Malmstrom AFB and ICBM launch control facilities in Montana, along with Minot AFB in North Dakota, experienced visits from objects referred to as "ufos" in the 24th NORAD region commander's log. These objects were brightly lit and out-maneuvered two F-106 interceptors sent up from Malmstrom after radar detected seven separate ufos between 9,500 and 15,500 feet, moving at speeds as low as 7 knots, later increasing to 150 knots and hovering at 3 knots.

A memorandum from the National Military Command Centre at the Pentagon described ground witnesses observing lights and engine sounds similar to jet fighters. Cross-checks with the FAA confirmed no jet aircraft were in the vicinity. Radar tracked objects over Lewistown, Montana, at 7 knots. Personnel at four SAC sites reported that intercepting F-106s arrived to find the objects turned off their lights, only to turn them back on after the interceptors departed. The memorandum concluded that the objects were real, capable of out-classing F-106s, and remained unidentified. Atmospheric phenomena like the Northern Lights were ruled out.

Further entries from the 24th NORAD region commander's log noted other strange events in Montana, including reports of large red to orange to yellow objects, an object emitting light, and a tubular black object being issued from a larger object. Security teams also reported UFOs with white lights and one red light.

International Incidents and Similarities

The magazine draws parallels between these North American sightings and similar events elsewhere. An incident on September 19th, 1976, in Iran involved the Iranian Air Force sending up two F-4 Phantom jets to pursue a brilliant object hovering near Mehrabad airport. Both jets temporarily lost navigational and communication capabilities when they got close to the object. The weapons instrumentation panel on one plane ceased to function as it prepared to fire a missile. The object also launched a smaller object that pursued the interceptor.

Another incident on October 4th, 1976, saw an F-4 Phantom jet investigate a high-flying object over Shiraz, Iran. The object vanished and reappeared multiple times, evading identification. This behavior mirrors the Montana incidents where UFOs extinguished their lights when approached by F-106s.

Government Concern and Secrecy

The article posits that the existence of a Pentagon department vitally concerned with UFO activity is evident, citing the U.S. military attaché in Iran sending an account of a UFO event. Despite outward government declarations that UFOs do not exist, the details presented suggest recognition and active study of the phenomenon.

On November 11th, 1975, Canadian Air Force personnel at NORAD's Falconbridge radar station near Sudbury, Ontario, along with civilians and local police, observed a brightly lit object similar to one sighted at Minot AFB. Radar tracked an object 25 to 30 NM south of the site, ranging in altitude from 26,000 to 72,000 feet. The object appeared as a bright star, but binoculars revealed a 100-ft.diameter sphere with craters.

Concerns are raised about the Pentagon directive issued to information offices, stating that unless sightings were linked or media queries specifically requested, responses should emphasize isolated incidents. This policy aimed to prevent public overreaction and downplay the widespread nature of the sightings.

Expert Opinions and Philosophical Reflections

The issue compiles numerous quotes from scientists, military leaders, and public figures regarding UFOs. Air Chief Marshal Lord Dowding states the evidence is "overwhelming." U.S. Navy Missile Expert Commander Robert B. McLaughlin reports seeing flying discs overtaking missiles at White Sands. Dr. Steinmetz suggests a future focus on spiritual matters. Sir Bernard Lovell notes a move towards scientific fantasies proving ancient beliefs. Albert Einstein is quoted on the nature of brain evolution and realities. Professor Hermann Oberth discusses the prevalence of planetary systems and the possibility of life elsewhere, suggesting Earth's civilization is primitive.

Astronaut John W. Young recounts seeing two bright objects in orbit during Gemini 10. U Thant reportedly considered UFOs a major problem for the UN. Senator Barry Goldwater asserts that "flying saucers... are real but whenever you ask the Air Force about them, they shut up."

Several international figures also weigh in: Wernher von Braun believes in an immortal soul. Frank Bormann, an American Astronaut, reports an "actual sighting." Brazilian Air Force Colonel Adil de Oliveira states that "saucers are real" and not conventional phenomena, urging investigation. Vice-Admiral R.H.Hillenkoetter believes unknown objects are operating under "intelligent control." Lt. Col.H.Strand concludes UFOs are real and may come from another planet. President Harry S. Truman suggests flying saucers, if they exist, are not of Earthly origin. Canadian astrophysicist Dr. Peter Millman and Dr. C.H.Mackenzie of the Atomic Energy Control Board find these observations significant and not to be dismissed.

Professor Harry Messel highlights that facts about saucers have been known in "top secret defence circles" for a long time, and it might be inadvisable to withhold the truth from the public. Chilean Director of Cosmic Radiation Centre, Prof. Gabriel Alvial, notes scientific evidence of strange objects visiting Earth and laments government secrecy. German rocket scientist Dr. Walter Riedel states UFOs maneuver with accelerations no human could withstand.

Editorial Note and Conclusion

The editorial note assesses these statements as a "wide-spread admission" among scientific, philosophic, and military fraternities that UFOs exist. It highlights Harry Messel's statement as particularly damning, suggesting governments are deeply concerned. The article questions how much information is being withheld from the public and speculates on the reasons for government clampdown, suggesting the facts might be too "awesome" to reveal or could lead to societal disintegration.

The calibre of the individuals quoted is emphasized, including astronomers, astronauts, military personnel, and pilots, whose conclusions are presented as highly dependable. Philosophical statements by figures like von Braun, Huxley, and Einstein point to the need for scientific advancement to understand these enigmas.

The editorial concludes that if so many careful thinkers believe UFOs exist, and many are professionally informed, then UFOs are real, and governments are aware. Government denials are characterized as "affrontry" and "bare faced lies." The article suggests that unless government departments suffer from hallucinations, they appear to delight in discrediting eyewitnesses.

"Odds and Ends" Section

This section presents various brief items of interest. Mauro Pettinelli, a 14-year-old member of Contact (Italy), is seeking correspondence with Contact (UK) members to exchange news and views about UFO activity in Italy.

Noel Rigau reports a lean year for UFO sightings in Puerto Rico in 1978, but notes an incident where a police chief was forced off the road by a low-flying UFO. Animal mutilations have also been reported in the Dominican Republic. Rigau also mentions that Puerto Rican ufologist Sebastian Robiou will publish a comprehensive account of UFO sightings in Puerto Rico since the mid-19th century.

Trevor Crabthorne is credited with a list of quotes about UFOs and related topics from notable personalities, including Frederick Hoyle, Albert Einstein, Prof.A.N.Whitehead, Samuel Blake, Lord Dowding, Commander Robert B. McLaughlin, Dr.Steinmetz, Sir Bernard Lovell, Prof. Hermann Oberth, John W.Young, U Thant, Senator Barry Goldwater, A.Millikan, Sir James Jeans, Thomas H.Huxley, Yakov Zeldovish, Wernher von Braun, Frank Bormann, Adil de Oliveira, Vice-Admiral R.H.Hillenkoetter, Lt. Col.H.Strand, President Harry S.Truman, Dr.Peter Millman, Dr.C.H.Mackenzie, Prof. Harry Messel, Prof.Gabriel Alvial, and Dr.Walter Riedel.

Lucius Farish of Arkansas reports that the Kuwaiti government formed a commission to investigate recent UFO sightings over the Persian Gulf region, including a landing of a cylindrical object near oil wells. The findings are hoped to be made public.

CONTACT (UK), in collaboration with BUFORA and NUFON, is preparing a series of regional UFO catalogues for the British Isles. The first two catalogues, The Northern UFO Catalogue (part 1) and The Channel Islands UFO Catalogue, are nearing completion. Other catalogues for Wales, East Anglia, Southern England, and Scotland are in progress or planned.

"New Light on the Thomas Mantell Case"

This article re-examines the famous case of Captain Thomas Mantell, which occurred in 1947. While many ufologists have concluded that Mantell was chasing a weather balloon, a new interview with Jack Pickering, an Air Traffic Controller at Lockbourne Air Force Base at the time, suggests otherwise. Pickering's statement strongly implies that Mantell was pursuing a UFO. Pickering, who had an Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering and was well-versed in ATC and radio operations, was on duty when Mantell died. He observed a large red spherical object descending through the cloud layer around 7:10 pm. The tower contacted him, asking about the object. Pickering advised contacting the airways operator. Soon, everyone in the station was looking at the object. The object remained stationary for a few minutes before moving around the base, never going far from its original position. Pickering and the tower attempted to contact an aircraft to get a closer look, but the object began to circle the base again.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent presence of unidentified aerial phenomena (UFOs) interacting with military installations and personnel, the apparent government efforts to downplay or conceal information about these events, and the growing body of evidence and expert testimony suggesting the reality of UFOs. The editorial stance is critical of government denials and secrecy, advocating for greater transparency and acknowledgment of the UFO phenomenon. The magazine champions the work of UFO research organizations and highlights the importance of witness testimony and declassified documents in understanding this complex subject. The issue emphasizes that UFOs continue to show interest in military sites, a pattern observed for decades, and suggests that the full story is far from over.

This issue of "Awareness" (identified by page number 23) focuses on UFO phenomena, organizational news, and reviews of related publications. The content suggests a publication date around 1979, given references to upcoming events and subscription changes.

Key Sighting Account: Mantell Incident and Witness Testimony

The issue details an account from a witness identified as "JP" who observed a UFO on the same day as the famous Mantell incident. JP described an object with speeds exceeding 1,000 mph, which hovered, descended vertically to near ground level, and then ascended rapidly. The object was visible for about 20 minutes. JP later went to the supposed landing spot but found no evidence. Four witnesses on the base were questioned extensively by officers flown to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

JP's sighting was linked to Mantell's death because news of the latter was relayed over the base radio. According to base reports, Mantell had exceeded the safe altitude limit of 15,000 ft and was without oxygen. His last transmission reportedly described the UFO as "gigantic and metallic." Mantell's P-51 aircraft was found in pieces, attributed by investigators to loss of consciousness and the aircraft disintegrating. JP disagreed with this explanation, suggesting Mantell might have been chasing a "Skyhook" balloon, but dismissed the idea as improbable for a combat pilot.

Organizational News: Contact (UK)

Annual General Meeting (AGM) 1978/9:

The AGM was held in Oxford at the Town Hall, attended by members from across the UK. Recommendations from members were discussed, with the National Committee agreeing to implement practical suggestions. Due to inflation, the annual subscription was raised to £4.00p from April 1st, 1979. The committee aims to keep fees to a minimum. Following the meeting, there were public exhibitions and talks, which were well-attended, with many unable to gain admittance due to space limitations. The event concluded with a panel of Contact Data Research personnel answering questions. The next AGM is planned for a Midlands venue.

Special Contact International Meeting in London:

A meeting was scheduled for March 10th (Saturday) at the Westminster Cathedral Conference Centre. Organized by International President Ruth Rees and Founder President the Earl of Clancarty, the meeting aimed to amplify discussions on UFOs held in the House of Lords and to state the aims of Contact International and its Data Research centre. Speakers included the Earl of Clancarty, Earl Kimberley, and J. Bernard Delair.

Membership Renewal and Incentive Scheme:

Members were reminded that subscriptions lapse on March 31st. The new annual subscription is £4.00p, payable to the treasurer, Derek N. Mansell. An incentive scheme was offered where members could receive a 50p refund for each new member they recruited, up to a full refund for eight new members. This scheme applied to new members only.

Readers' Letters

Several letters were published:

• R. France from Reading sought members interested in skywatching.
• Margaret Golding inquired about the "UFO Register" mentioned in the membership application form. The editor replied it would be issued in seven to eight weeks.
• Roger Glover from Glasgow wished to discuss sky-watch arrangements with local members.
• George D. Fawcett from North Carolina congratulated the publication on its approach to UFO research and analysis. He is conducting a study on human reactions to UFOs and sought responses from eyewitnesses.

Reviews of UFO Publications

J.B. Delair reviewed three British UFO journals:

• "Earthlink": Published quarterly by the Essex UFO Study Group. Described as one of the best British provincial UFO journals, maintaining a high standard with a focus on Essex and East Anglian news, but also including reports from elsewhere. It was noted for being unusually free of typing errors and having attractive illustrations.
• "Quest": Issued quarterly by the Bristol-based UFO INTERNATIONAL. It has a responsible and sane outlook, featuring informative reports and articles covering the West of England and international locations. However, it was noted to have spelling errors.
• "MUFOB" (Metempirical UFO Bulletin): The longest-running magazine reviewed, edited by John Rimmer. Praised for its caustic wit, perception, and erudition. It provides proper references for consulted works, which is considered essential. A significant feature is the ongoing "INTCAT" catalogue of Type I UFO events compiled by Peter Rogerson. The journal is noted for its relevant illustrations. The reviewer hoped for a comprehensive index in the future and urged researchers to subscribe.

Advertisements and Book Sales

The issue included advertisements for books and publications related to UFOs, such as "Investigating UFOs" by Larry Kettelkamp, "The UFO Experience" by Dr. Allen Hynek, and "The Hynek UFO Report." Cassette tapes of interviews and talks on UFO topics were also advertised, including "Space Visitors from Lanulos" and "The Truth Behind the Various Saucer Meetings."

Additionally, there were listings for:

• Lionel Beer offering books and lists.
• Albert Onori offering a collection of UFO newspaper clippings from 1950-1977.
• UFO NETWORK providing a comprehensive information service on UFOs.
• LANTERN, a quarterly journal of East Anglian oddities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings and encounters, with a specific focus on the Mantell incident and a related witness account. The publication also emphasizes organizational activities and community building within the UFO research field, particularly through Contact (UK). The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, promoting well-researched publications and encouraging member participation. The reviews of "Earthlink," "Quest," and "MUFOB" suggest an appreciation for thoroughness, good referencing, and a balanced approach to ufology, while also noting areas for improvement in some publications.