Awareness - 1983-84 - Vol 12 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: AWARENESS
Subtitle: JOURNAL OF CONTACT INTERNATIONAL
Issue: 2
Volume: 12
Date: 1983-4

This issue of Awareness Journal of Contact International presents a diverse range of articles, from historical UFO accounts to theoretical physics and organizational news within the ufology community.

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the year 1983, noting a relative scarcity of UFO activity but highlighting a significant "blockbuster" report in the News of the World concerning the alleged UFO landing at Rendlesham Forest in December 1980. The editorial team has compiled information for an objective assessment of this event. A significant announcement is the resignation of the Yorkshire UFO Society (YUFOS) from CONTACT, a move seen as a natural progression for the growing organization. However, this resignation means the planned CONTACT 1984 conference in Leeds cannot proceed, and an alternative venue near Oxford is being arranged. The editorial also expresses sadness at the resignation of Graham Birdsall, founder of YUFOS, from all UFO work, thanking him for his contributions. The need for more helpers for the UFO Register, focusing on the years 1974 and 1975, is emphasized, with a call for volunteers to assist at Wheatley on Monday evenings. The President, Ruth Rees, has returned from abroad, and her newsletter on page 21 details her meeting with a Spanish ufologist, hinting at the potential for an overseas branch. Investigators in Italy and Western Australia are also producing newsletters.

Historical Sightings From Original Sources

This section presents a collection of pre-1947 UFO reports, aiming to provide first-hand accounts.

Scandinavian Ghost Aviators (Helsingfors, Feb 3rd 1934)

Reports describe continued night flights over Northern Finland, Sweden, and Norway by unidentified aircraft, termed "ghost aviators," causing apprehension and leading to military reconnaissance. Mystery lights were also sighted. Aviation experts suggest these fliers exhibit exceptional skill, possibly superior to Northern European aviators. One theory proposed a Japanese reconnaissance effort, which Soviet authorities reportedly denied.

A Formation of 150 roaring UFOs in the Pacific (Aug 12th 1942)

A letter to Fantastic Universe recounts a sighting on August 12th, 1942, near Guadalcanal. The witness, a Marine, described a massive formation of over 150 "silvery" objects flying in straight lines at high altitude. The objects emitted a loud, roaring sound, unlike typical aircraft. The witness noted the objects lacked visible wings or tails, wobbled, and shimmered in the sun. The formation was described as awe-inspiring and frightening.

Bomber paced by UFO (Aug 10th 1944)

A bomber commander recounts an incident on August 10th, 1944, during a mission over Palembang, Sumatra. While flying at 14,000 feet, his plane was paced by a spherical object, approximately 5-6 feet in diameter, of a bright red or orange color with a halo effect. The object followed the bomber for about eight minutes, maintaining a distance of 500 yards, before making an abrupt 90-degree turn and accelerating rapidly out of sight. The witness initially suspected a new type of radio-controlled missile.

Veteran recalls early saucers (May/June 1945)

This section refers to reports of "mystery fireballs" that supposedly attacked B29 planes over Japanese islands in May and June 1945. These "fireballs" were described as round, speedy balls of fire, fast but less maneuverable than a B29, or as burning warheads suspended from parachutes. They were observed approaching planes and following them out to sea.

Flying Football sighting Florida (May 1946)

A letter dated April 4th, 1955, describes a sighting in May 1946 near Titusville, Florida. The witness, a former naval officer, observed an object shaped like a "flying football" moving from West to East at about 1000 feet elevation at approximately 125 m.p.h. The object was dark against a light cloud layer, had no visible engine, wings, or tail, and made no sound other than a whistling noise. It moved smoothly in an arc and disappeared into a low cloud bank.

Electromagnetism and Time

By M. Soper B.A.

This article explores the relationship between electromagnetism and the concept of 'time,' suggesting it may shed light on vehicle stoppages associated with UFO sightings. The author explains the relationship between electric fields (E) and magnetic fields (B) using Maxwell's equations, noting that B is a reaction to a changing E. The concept of 'time' is discussed as a construct for utility, with 'change' being the fundamental observable. The article posits that the universe might 'update' at intervals related to the speed of light and particle size. It suggests that a local change in the speed of light ('c') could explain 'impossible' atmospheric velocities of UFOs and cause phenomena like disappearances and color changes.

The article also touches upon quantum mechanics, referencing Louis de Broglie's hypothesis about quantum waves having variable rest mass. It speculates on how changes in parameters like mass (m), speed of light (c), or Planck's constant (h) could affect electrical systems, leading to power leakage or short circuits. A change in 'c' is highlighted as particularly significant, potentially causing phenomena to move into a 'separate Universe' and explaining UFO characteristics as artefactual effects.

News of New Worlds?

A Data Research Investigation compiled by G.E. Ambler.

This investigation examines the News of the World's banner headline on October 2nd, 1983, claiming "UFO LANDS IN SUFFOLK, And Thats OFFICIAL." The article reveals that the reported incident was the well-documented "Rendlesham Forest Mystery" from December 1980. The report questions the timing of the alleged landing (3 a.m. on December 27th, 1980) and notes discrepancies with other reports suggesting the event occurred on December 28th or 29th, 1980, or early January 1981. The article mentions investigator Dot Street and Brenda Butler, who were pictured in the News of the World, claiming a "wall of secrecy" surrounded the events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Awareness Journal of Contact International demonstrates a commitment to investigating UFO phenomena through historical accounts, scientific inquiry, and critical analysis. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and scientific explanations over unsubstantiated claims, as evidenced by the detailed examination of electromagnetic effects and the critical review of the Rendlesham Forest report. There is a clear emphasis on data research and the need for objective assessment of evidence. The journal also highlights the international nature of ufology, with mentions of contacts and investigators in Spain, Italy, and Australia, and expresses a desire to foster collaboration and growth within the field, while acknowledging the challenges and internal feuds that can affect UFO groups.

This issue of CONTACT magazine, dated May 1982 (Volume 10, No. 2), focuses heavily on the Rendlesham Forest Mystery, presenting it as a significant UFO landing event. The cover headline boldly proclaims "THE RENDLESHAM FOREST MYSTERY," and the lead article compiles evidence and witness accounts, suggesting a "big" event occurred in the area around Rendlesham forest in early 1981. The magazine emphasizes that its information, extracted from CONTACT's files, predates the "band-wagon effect" of the News of the World's subsequent revelation.

The Rendlesham Forest Mystery

The article begins by referencing the News of the World's report that a UFO had landed in Britain and was officially confirmed. The magazine's investigators claim to have proof that a craft arrived in a red ball of light at 3 a.m. on December 27, 1980, in Tangham Wood, near the USAF base at RAF Woodbridge, Suffolk. An American airman reportedly witnessed three beings in silver space suits aboard a "sloping silver dish about 20ft across its base." The event was allegedly witnessed by about 200 military and civilian personnel, who appeared to be expecting the visitors.

Two nights later, a series of fast-moving objects beaming powerful lights earthward were spotted over the base by several airmen. The magazine asserts that the PROOF of a landed UFO is "irrefutable," identifying Lt. Colonel Charles I. Halt, deputy commander of the USAF 81st Tactical Fighter Wing, as the key witness. His official report, titled "Unexplained Lights," is reproduced.

Colonel Halt's report details how two USAF security police patrolmen saw unusual lights outside the back gate at RAF Woodbridge. Investigating on foot, they saw a "strange glowing object." The object was described as metallic, triangular, approximately two to three meters across the base and two meters high, illuminating the forest with a white light. It had a pulsing red light on top and blue lights underneath, hovering or on legs. As the patrolmen approached, it maneuvered through the trees and disappeared. Animals on a nearby farm went into a frenzy. The object was sighted again an hour later near the back gate.

The next day, three depressions, one and a half inches deep and seven inches in diameter, were found on the ground where the object had been sighted. The following night, radiation readings were found in the depressions and on a tree. Colonel Halt's report continues, describing a red sun-like light seen through the trees that moved, pulsed, and appeared to throw off glowing particles before breaking into five separate white objects and disappearing. Subsequently, three star-like objects were seen in the sky, moving rapidly with green and blue lights, appearing elliptical through a lens. These objects remained visible for an hour or more, with one beaming lights earthward.

Colonel Halt concluded that numerous people, including himself, witnessed these events. When contacted, he declined to comment further, stating it was a "very delicate situation" and that he could "jeopardise my career if I talk." He had sought advice from the KAF base commander, Squadron Leader Donald Morland, who confirmed that Colonel Halt was "a very worried man" and that he believed Halt's account.

Eyewitness Detail and Theories

The magazine then presents eyewitness detail from Art Wallace, a USAF Security Policeman (whose name was changed for security reasons), who was sent to the site in a convoy of military vehicles. Wallace described seeing a red ball of light coming from over the trees, with no noise. The light exploded into colors, momentarily blinding them, and then a "machine" was visible. He stated there were beings in the craft, but he couldn't see them. Others reported seeing three beings in silver suits. One theory suggests the craft was a military space vehicle, but this doesn't explain why Colonel Halt was unaware of it.

Game-keeper Roger Boast, living near the airbase, reported that cattle ran amok and deer and rabbits fled the woods, calling the event "very strange."

The magazine notes that the News of the World's front-page report was from October 2nd, but the alleged landing occurred on December 27, 1980, over a year later. They express concern that many prominent cases reported are also at least a year old, questioning the validity of gossip versus factual reporting. However, they state that CONTACT's Data Research files have produced facts pointing to UFO activity at the time.

Other UFO Reports

The issue also includes other UFO reports:

• Brenda Butler's Investigation: Brenda Butler heard from associates about an alleged UFO landing and CE3 near Woodbridge in early January 1981. She and an associate visited the airbase and spoke with the Commander, who initially denied knowledge but seemed to imply he knew more. A visit to the alleged landing site revealed nothing unusual. Later, a witness confirmed the report and provided directions, but later denied knowledge.

• Forestry Commission Account: A man working at the Forestry Commission reported that on January 1, 1981, a farmer heard a loud noise that frightened his animals. The farmer contacted RAF Woodbridge, and men were sent out. The farmer observed an object hovering over the forest. Security men arrived, also saw the object, and contacted the base. More personnel were sent, and the object landed. Three "entities" were seen around the craft, which stood on three legs. Communication allegedly occurred, and the craft may have been removed to the air base. The incident lasted about four hours, and power failures were reported. Witnesses were reportedly told to keep quiet due to the involvement of the British government.

• Mrs S. Letter (April 18, 1981): A trainee field investigator for MUFON reported hearing about a farmer in Ely seeing a saucer in January (estimated 5th-10th) and two objects seen in Newmarket around 11:45 p.m. on December 25th. She also mentioned a young man working in meteorology who saw something on December 27th.

• Banbury Man's Report: A 27-year-old man from Banbury reported an experience on Boxing night (December 27, 1980) at 3 a.m. near RAF Greatworth. His car's brakes failed, and he saw four red lights with a glow behind them. The object was rectangular with red lights at each corner and a glowing tail, moving very fast. He felt frightened.

• Christmas Night Event (December 25, 1980): The magazine notes that an object passed over the UK at 9 p.m. on Christmas night, seen by thousands and widely reported. While the scientific community dismissed it as a meteorite, CONTACT considered it potentially "something special."

• Classic UFO Cases - Part 4:
• Case 7: Haneda Airport, Tokyo, Japan (Summer 1962): Two control tower operators observed a large, brilliant starlike object. Through binoculars, it appeared as a round light with a darker portion underneath. The object moved erratically, disappearing and reappearing multiple times. An F94 fighter aircraft was scrambled, but lost the target, which then broke into three pieces and headed northeast. The case was investigated by the American Air Force and Japanese authorities and listed as unidentified.
• Case 8: Korean Air-Space Incident (September 1950): Three fighter bombers on a combat mission encountered two large circular shadows moving at high speed. The objects were tracked on radar at approximately 1000-1200 m.p.h. and caused radar and radio interference, jamming the aircraft's guns and radio.

What is a UFO?

This section, written by F.A. Copeland, offers a lighthearted perspective on UFO encounters, describing a scenario where an average person might suddenly face a UFO hovering above their car, leading to a sudden engine cut-out and a feeling of paralysis or mental communication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance is that the Rendlesham Forest incident, and other cases presented, are significant and warrant serious investigation, moving beyond mere "lights in the sky" phenomena to genuine CE3 (Close Encounter of the Third Kind) events. There is a recurring theme of potential government cover-ups and the reluctance of witnesses to speak due to fear of repercussions. The magazine positions itself as a source of factual reporting, contrasting its approach with the sensationalism and delayed reporting of some popular press outlets. The editorial team appears to believe in the reality of UFO phenomena and seeks to present evidence and testimonies that support this view.

Title: Awareness
Issue: 1
Volume: 1983-4
Date: 1983
Publisher: CONTACT INTERNATIONAL
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of Awareness magazine presents a collection of UFO-related reports, analyses, and news, focusing on various sightings and incidents from different parts of the world. It includes official investigations, witness testimonies, and speculative interpretations, often touching upon the intersection of UFO phenomena with religious beliefs and scientific inquiry.

Case Studies and Investigations

Case 3: Quarduble, France (September 10th, 1954)

The issue details an investigation by the American Air Force into a UFO sighting in Quarduble, France. The objects were described as huge, with a silvered mirror appearance and a reddish glow, shaped like a 'coolies hat' with oblong ports emitting a copper-green light. The underside was circular, coal black, and non-reflective. The objects maneuvered around the aircraft before disappearing at high speed. Respondent analysis indicated 56% considered it a genuine UFO, 33% a possible UFO, and 11% a hoax. Doubts were raised about the main witness's evidence and other factors.

Case 4: Saude, Brazil

This case is presented as particularly convincing, with no returns suggesting a hoax and the vast majority believing it to be a genuine UFO.

Case 5: Portuguese Air-Space Incident (September 4th, 1957)

This incident was classified by respondents as 55% genuine UFO and 45% possible UFO.

Case 6: The Fatima (Portugal) Incident (May-October 1917)

This is a detailed examination of the Fatima events, with respondent classifications including 40% genuine UFO, 20% possible UFO, 20% religious miracle, 10% misinterpretation of natural phenomena, and 10% contrived encounters. The article explores the religious aspects, with witnesses reporting sightings of the Virgin Mary. It also delves into the Vatican's stance on the prophecies and potential clerical involvement. The author suggests the event might have been a 'cooked encounter' designed by clergymen to give the place religious status, or a warning from an extraterrestrial being about future disasters. The report notes the presence of 'Angel Hair' and a disc-shaped object landing. The editor notes that some comments exhibit an anti-Catholic bias.

Oxford Sighting (December 23rd, 1980)

Investigated by Edward Lockwood for CONTACT INTERNATIONAL (UK), this case involves three young women—Claire Montefiore, Sarah Campbell, and Fiona Campbell—who witnessed a large object hovering above their car on Old Boar's Hill, Oxford. The object was described as having sharply defined windows or lights glowing in orange and green, and was estimated to be about 100 feet above them. It appeared to have a spheroidal shape with a fin or steering device and rotated. The object was described as 'like a Circus Ring' and so large it blotted out the sky. It then flipped on its side and disappeared with great acceleration. The witnesses are described as reliable, having since graduated with diplomas and honors degrees. Their reports and sketches were filed with CONTACT INTERNATIONAL (UK).

News Letter From the President

Ruth Rees, President of CONTACT INTERNATIONAL, apologizes for the delay in her letter, attributing it to extensive travel. She highlights the visit of Luis Jose Grifol, a Spanish ufologist, to the UK. Grifol, known for his telepathic contact with UFO occupants, addressed the UFO Committee of the House of Lords. His collection of UFO photos from Catalunia was presented. An experiment where Grifol telepathically asked UFOs to move their craft, which they did within 20 seconds in the presence of 17 witnesses, is described as convincing evidence of a strong link between him and UFOs.

Rees expresses frustration that UFOs will eventually be accepted as fact, but the public will have forgotten the scorn directed at pioneers in the field. She also mentions the possibility of a future European UFO Congress in Malta and asks for input on projects.

Advertisements

• The issue includes advertisements for:
• The Yufos Journal: A bi-monthly magazine from the Yorkshire UFO Society.
• Extra Terrestrial Influence in Biblical Times: A book priced at £6.50.
• UFO Newsclipping Service: A 20-page monthly report on UFOs and related topics.
• Books and Magazines for Sale: A selection of over 300 titles.
• World UFO Directory 1983: A guide to UFOs, groups, and societies.
• Photocopying Service: Available from CONTACT headquarters.

Facts Section

A section titled 'FACTS' discusses financial matters, noting that the pound's value can halve in 7 years at 10% inflation. It emphasizes the need to review savings and investments and suggests consulting AVON BARD BROKERS for personalized financial planning.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings from a perspective that bridges scientific investigation and personal testimony, often entertaining the possibility of extraterrestrial origins. There is a clear interest in documenting and analyzing cases, as seen with the detailed breakdown of respondent opinions for various incidents. The publication also touches upon the historical and religious dimensions of UFO phenomena, particularly evident in the extensive coverage of the Fatima incident. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, encouraging reasoned opinions and acknowledging the challenges faced by those who investigate and report on UFOs, as expressed by Ruth Rees. The magazine also serves as a platform for promoting related publications and services within the UFO community.