BUFORA Bulletin - No 29 - Jul 1988

Magazine Overview

Title: BULLETIN
Issue: Number 29
Date: July 1988
Publisher: BUFORA Ltd (British UFO Research Association)
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 0265 1947

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated July 1988, is primarily dedicated to an in-depth historical exploration of 'Foo Fighters' and addresses the crucial topic of witness confidentiality. It also includes an obituary, news, and case reports.

Editorial

The editor, Mike Wootten, apologizes for the late arrival of this edition, attributing it to a move to a new address. He expresses optimism that the new office will allow for timely production of future issues. The editorial highlights the importance of witness confidentiality, noting that many witnesses feel their personal lives are at risk if they 'go public' with their experiences. It emphasizes that BUFORA has a policy of respecting witnesses' wishes and confidentiality, and that a new, expanded Code of Practice has been published to guide investigators. The editorial also touches upon the sensational attitude of the media towards the UFO subject, which can cause distress to witnesses, and states that the Bulletin will be bound by the clauses and guidelines of this Code of Practice, using pseudonyms for witnesses where necessary.

Obituary

Peter F. Johnson

The bulletin reports the death of Peter F. Johnson, a member since 1964, at the age of 73. Johnson, an engineer by profession, had a long career in the water industry and served in the RAF during the war. He was known for his hobby of making metal detectors, including the 'Johnson (moving-field) UFO detector'. He was a regional co-ordinator for BUFORA for many years, investigating numerous cases and interviewing approximately 200 witnesses. Jenny Randles notes his significant behind-the-scenes contributions and his pleasant disposition. BUFORA sent a donation to a cancer charity in his name.

Feature: Foo Fighters: The Story So Far

By Andy Roberts

Andy Roberts, a founder member of WYUFORG and a member of the BUFORA Council, presents a historical look at 'Foo Fighters' – mysterious aerial phenomena seen by aircrew during WWII. Roberts argues that this is the most neglected area of study in ufology. He criticizes the common tendency in ufology to focus only on events after 1947, neglecting earlier phenomena. Roberts initiated a study in 1987 to gather material on Foo Fighters, aiming to publish a reference book.

He identifies several problems within the existing literature:

• Neglect: Despite being mentioned in many UFO books, detailed information is scarce, often limited to a few lines or pages.
• Misinformation and Hoaxes: Roberts points out that much of the information is derived from a 1945 American Legion Magazine article by Jo Chamberlin, which has been copied and extrapolated without original research. This has led to generalizations, such as Foo Fighters only appearing in the later stages of the war.
• Geographical Scope: Contrary to the belief that Foo Fighters were mainly seen over Europe and the Pacific, Roberts states they were reported over numerous countries including Norway, Germany, France, Italy, Sicily, Burma, and Tunisia.
• Axis Pilot Accounts: Roberts notes the lack of verified accounts from Axis pilots reporting Foo Fighters, suggesting that the claim they also saw them is a ufological canard used to support the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH).
• 'Secret Weapon' Theory: The idea that Foo Fighters were Nazi secret weapons or extraterrestrial probes is dismissed as false, with records indicating sightings as early as 1940.
• Project Uranus Hoax: Roberts reveals that 'Project Uranus', a supposed German study group investigating Foo Fighters, was a hoax created by ufologist Henry Durrant and perpetuated by Tim Good, intended to see if information would be copied without verification.

Roberts emphasizes the poor quality of research and writing on the subject, stating that much of it is based on copied, unreferenced, and often misquoted material. He sought to get back to primary source material by contacting pilots and crew directly.

He reports receiving about thirty replies from aircrew who described sightings of strange balls of light, none of whom used the term 'foo-fighters'. These reports are considered valuable because they are not influenced by modern UFO lore. Many entries were made in logbooks immediately after flights.

The descriptions of these 'Balls of Light' are similar to those found in literature, often appearing as orange balls of light that would play tag with aircraft for up to forty minutes. They were not hallucinations and were seen by entire crews. Evasive action was ineffective.

Roberts notes that some respondents feared reporting their experiences due to ridicule or fear of being grounded. He questions the lack of interest from intelligence services, suggesting that a comprehensive study of this phenomenon might not have been undertaken during WWII due to the intense focus on the war effort and the perceived ephemeral and harmless nature of the sightings.

News

By Lionel Beer

This section provides brief updates on UFO-related news. It mentions a recent sighting of a disc-shaped object over the North Sea, a report of a silent, disc-shaped craft over Scotland, and a sighting of a triangular craft over the Welsh coast. It also notes the upcoming BUFORA conference and the publication of a new book.

Readers Write

This section contains letters from readers, offering diverse opinions and experiences related to UFO phenomena. (Content not detailed in the provided OCR).

BUFORA Case Reports: A Major Priority

By Mike Wootten

This article likely details specific UFO cases investigated by BUFORA, emphasizing their importance and the association's commitment to their thorough examination. (Content not detailed in the provided OCR).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

• Themes:
• Historical UFO Phenomena: A significant focus on 'Foo Fighters' as a precursor to modern UFO sightings.
• Research Integrity: Emphasis on rigorous research, source verification, and the dangers of misinformation and hoaxes in ufology.
• Witness Welfare: Strong advocacy for witness confidentiality and sensitive handling of their accounts.
• Media Relations: A critical view of the media's sensationalist approach to UFOs.
• Organizational Matters: Information about BUFORA's structure, aims, and membership.

Editorial Stance:

The editorial stance is one of promoting serious, unbiased scientific research into UFO phenomena. There is a clear commitment to protecting witnesses and ensuring their accounts are handled with respect and confidentiality. The magazine appears critical of poor research practices and sensationalism, advocating for a more professional and evidence-based approach to ufology. The inclusion of historical cases like Foo Fighters suggests a belief that understanding past phenomena is key to understanding the broader UFO issue.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, number 29, focuses on UFO research and reports. It includes a detailed round-up of UFO cases in Yorkshire from late 1987 to early 1988, an analysis of a Tibetan UFO case, and a discussion on the 'foo-fighter' phenomenon during World War II. Additionally, it features a viewpoint piece addressing allegations made against the author regarding research into the Sunderland family case.

Foo-fighters and the German Secret Weapon Hypothesis

The article "Foo-fighters" explores the phenomenon observed by aircrew during WWII. The author notes a lack of official documentation in the UK, attributing it to bureaucratic procedures rather than a cover-up. While acknowledging the possibility of different explanations, the author dismisses the German Secret Weapon Hypothesis (GSWH) proposed by writers like Renato Vesco. The reasoning is that reports are too widely spaced across different theatres of war, and German technology was not advanced enough for such a weapon. The author suggests that foo-fighters, like modern UFO sightings, might be cultural or occupational artifacts that can be identified and discounted in retrospect. The article appeals to readers for any information on the subject.

Yorkshire Cases Round-Up

This section, compiled by David Clark, Director of BUFORA, summarizes interesting UFO sighting reports collected between September 1987 and March 1988. The cases include:

• September 8 & 12, 1987: Midnight "apparitions" reported by security guards and policemen on the Stockbridge by-pass road.
• September 9, 1987: Mountain rescue teams were called to Big Moor after observers reported bright red lights, possibly distress flares.
• Mid-September 1987: Two policemen reported brilliant lights moving over moorland west of Sheffield.
• September 25, 1987: A large triangular object with red and white lights was seen over fields at Thurcroft.
• Late September 1987: A boomerang-shaped object with red lights was seen over Longley housing estate.
• December 18, 1987: A triangular object with a dome was reported over Mexborough.
• December 29, 1987: A large bell or helmet-shaped object was seen moving over the Wingfield area.
• December 31, 1987: A large triangular-shaped object with red lights and a large white light overhead was reported in fields at Goldthorpe.
• January 4, 1988: A cluster of lights was reported and photographed over Masbrough.
• January 5, 1988: A large cross-shaped object with windows and coloured lights was seen above trees on Huddersfield Road.
• January 6, 1988: Five balls of orange/yellow light were seen over Rotherham, photographed, and reportedly pursued by a light aircraft.
• January 7, 1988: A bright object with coloured lights and a "mothership" was reported by Mr. & Mrs. Carby.
• January 16, 1988: A brilliant red light was reported over the southern outskirts of Sheffield, confirmed as a military flare.
• January 18, 1988: Two brightly-lit doughnut-shaped UFOs were reportedly filmed over Wentworth.
• January 23, 1988: A "Close Encounter" was reported in Derbyshire.
• February 2, 1988: An elongated black object with flashing red lights was reported making noise over Sheffield Lane Top.
• February 3, 1988: A triangular object with red and white lights was seen over Wincobank.

The report notes that many sightings are misidentifications and efforts are ongoing to resolve them.

A Tibetan UFO II

This report by Regina Cullen and Manfred Cassirer re-examines a UFO sighting from a newsreel shown on BBC and ITV. While a previous analysis suggested the object was a UFO, the authors, after viewing the clip at White City Studios, concluded that the object is neither "flying" nor an "object" but likely a smudge or speck on the lens. The movement of the object along with the camera's focus suggests it was in front of, or on, the lens. The report notes the coincidence of such a UFO-shaped configuration appearing during a religious festival but dismisses it as likely being a lens artifact.

John Barrett

The bulletin notes that former Bulletin Editor, John Barrett, suffered a severe stroke and provides contact information for those wishing to send him a card.

Viewpoint: A Credible Response?

Jenny Randles, BUFORA's Director of Investigations, addresses comments made by Marion Sunderland regarding the book "The Eye of Fire" by Graham Phillips and Martin Keatman. Randles clarifies her involvement and defends her research practices. She states that the Sunderland family's case was already in the public domain through Liverpool Daily Post articles and a BBC radio program before she and Paul Whetnall suggested writing a book. Randles asserts that she respected the family's request to keep their case file private since 1980 and that her intention was always to conduct serious ufological research, not to gain personal advantage. She refutes claims of blackmail or fraud, explaining that her decision to write the book was based on the public nature of the case and the family's knowledge and understanding that research publication was important. Randles also addresses Marion Sunderland's accusation that she wanted to "be part of things," explaining that her concern stemmed from learning about significant, secret aspects of the case only after two years of investigation and public support, which she found worrying. She emphasizes that the book was written based on transcripts, notes, and firsthand accounts, and that her analysis involved speaking with many people involved in the case.

BUFORA Postal Library

BUFORA has established a postal library for its members, offering a wide range of UFO books, including classic titles. Books are available for loan against a returnable deposit, excluding postage costs.

Research Request

Earnest Still and Susan Pollock are conducting collective research into Northamptonsire UFO cases and are requesting any relevant material from readers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation and documentation of UFO phenomena, the critical analysis of hypotheses (such as the GSWH), and the challenges of UFO research, including the difficulty in obtaining official records and the need for public contributions. The editorial stance, as exemplified by Jenny Randles' viewpoint, emphasizes a commitment to rigorous, evidence-based research, transparency, and respect for witnesses, while also defending the integrity of the research process against unfounded accusations. The bulletin actively encourages reader participation through research requests and appeals for information.

Title: BUFORA Bulletin
Issue: 29
Date: June 1988

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin contains several articles and letters addressing ongoing debates within the ufology community, focusing on the credibility of UFO reports, investigative methodologies, and the interpretation of phenomena.

Rebuttal of Claims Regarding 'The UFO Conspiracy'

The issue features a detailed response from the author of 'The UFO Conspiracy' (presumably Jenny Randles, given the advertisement on page 24) to criticisms leveled by a 'Marion' (likely Marion Sunderland). The author refutes claims that the book contained factual errors and that the Sunderlands attempted to prevent its publication. The author states that the Sunderlands were given the manuscript to read and approved it, with many of their suggested changes incorporated. The author also clarifies that the breakup of their personal relationship with Paul Whetnall was not linked to the Sunderland family and that their involvement in the 'treasure hunt' was not fabricated to capitalize on the book's publication. The author also addresses a specific claim by Marion that the author faked the story of the 'three lights over Avebury,' asserting that this claim is without foundation and contradicts the established chronology of events.

Discussion of the Mirage Theory

The article delves into Steuart Campbell's theory that UFO reports can be explained by mirages. The author expresses disagreement with Campbell's assertion that this theory solves the entire UFO problem, arguing that it oversimplifies the phenomenon and human psychology. The author questions whether credible witnesses would accept a mirage explanation for their experiences, particularly for sightings described as metallic or reflecting sunlight. While acknowledging that mirages might explain some cases, the author believes they cannot account for all phenomena and expresses a degree of contempt for the idea that all UFO reports can be dismissed so readily.

Soviet Explanation for Bermuda Triangle Mystery

An article briefly touches upon a Soviet explanation for the Bermuda Triangle mystery, citing the magazine PRIRODA. The theory suggests that discharges of methane and other gases from the seabed could deplete oxygen, leading to aircraft or ship accidents. The formation of solid layers of gas-hydrate from methane and water is proposed as a mechanism for these eruptions.

Black Panther Sightings

The bulletin reports on recent black panther sightings, including an incident where a wild black panther killed chickens at a wildlife park and was observed by its owner. The article notes that similar sightings have been reported in the Kent area.

BUFORA's Involvement in UFO Cases

BUFORA is mentioned in relation to investigating the case of Martin Cohen, a Special Constable who reported seeing a purple glow and figures resembling furry women. The bulletin notes that BUFORA was treating this case with extreme caution.

Reader Correspondence

Several letters from readers are included:

• Andy Roberts expresses concern about the uncritical acceptance of abduction scenarios and the tendency to blame external agencies for strange mental experiences, urging ufologists to use their brains and consider alternative explanations.
• Ernest Still requests information from BUFORA members regarding UFO files in Northamptonshire for a study he is conducting.
• Ian Ridpath corrects the editor regarding Spain's time zone, pointing out an error in a previous issue and suggesting how to verify such information.
• A letter from Raymond Shaw questions the scientific basis of Steuart Campbell's mirage theory, arguing it cannot explain all UFO reports and implies a misinterpretation of human psychology and physiology.
• Ronny Blomme thanks BUFORA for a review of his 'Sky Map Manual' and provides his new contact address.
• A letter from an unnamed author expresses a desire for a correction regarding the publication of an old address for Ronny Blomme.

News and Events

The issue announces the "First European Congress on Anomalous Aerial Phenomena" organized by SOBEPS in Brussels from November 11-13, 1988, emphasizing that English will be the sole working language. It also mentions "The Final Report 'UFO Belgium'" as a publication worth considering. Information is provided on how to obtain copies of MJ-12 papers released under the US Freedom of Information Act. Ronald Story, author of 'THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF UFOs,' is preparing an expanded second edition and welcomes suggestions.

New Research Resources

One correspondent highlights the importance of William R. Corliss's "Catalogs of Anomalies," which categorize phenomena that cannot be explained by prevailing scientific theories. The correspondent strongly urges BUFORA to invest in these catalogs for reference by researchers.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical evaluation of UFO evidence, the challenges of investigative methodology, and the psychological aspects of belief in paranormal phenomena. The bulletin appears to advocate for a more rigorous and skeptical approach to UFO research, questioning unsubstantiated claims and encouraging critical thinking. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible evidence and speculative theories, as well as a concern about the potential for ufology to become a form of uncritical belief system.

The editorial comments throughout the issue, particularly in response to reader letters, demonstrate a willingness to engage with criticism and correct errors, while also defending the bulletin's editorial integrity and the importance of thorough research. The overall stance seems to be one of promoting responsible and evidence-based ufology.

Title: BUFORA News
Issue: Number 29
Date: Not specified, but content refers to 1988 and 1989.
Publisher: BUFORA (British UFO Research Association)
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of BUFORA News, specifically the 'Stop Press!' section, focuses on a critical initiative: the major priority to address the organisation's extensive collection of UFO case reports. The article, written by Mike Wootten, details the current state of the archive and the ambitious plan for its refurbishment, computer cataloguing, and centralisation.

BUFORA Case Reports: A Major Priority

The article begins by acknowledging past criticisms regarding the disorganised state of BUFORA's case report collection. The BUFORA Council has now made the refurbishment, computer cataloguing, and centralisation of this archive a top priority, with a firm policy and timetable agreed upon for its completion.

Current Condition

As of the publication, the archive contains approximately 15,000 cases, ordered by year from 1936 to the present date. However, the collection is spread across several different locations, with some reports held by members of the research and investigation teams. Only about twenty percent of the cases have been refurbished, sorted into numerical order, and bound into new folders. These refurbished cases have also been catalogued on the BUFORA Case Report Computer Index.

The Project Plan

The project is divided into stages. The first stage involves centralising all the case files into a single location. The BUFORA central office, situated at the chairman's address, has been designated as a temporary home for the files. The Council is committed to having the entire archive centralised by the end of 1988.

Michael Hudson, a Canterbury member and manager of the BUFORA Postal Library, has offered to take a significant role in the refurbishment and computer cataloguing of the files, working alongside Arnold West. Currently, the computer catalogue is based on a ZX Spectrum, which is described as a dated machine. Michael Hudson will continue to input information using a BUFORA-supplied ZX machine. Steve Gamble is working on transferring the data to an Amstrad PCW 8000/9000 machine, which uses dBase II and will be more accessible to British researchers, particularly with potential networking capabilities.

The overall project is targeted for completion by the end of 1989. However, achieving this deadline is contingent upon securing sufficient manpower to accelerate the process. The article stresses the need for volunteers and financial support to complete the project on time and to the professional standards expected in modern ufology.

Interested individuals willing to offer support are encouraged to contact Arnold West at 16 Southway, Burgess Hill, Sussex, RH15 9ST.

Diary Section

The 'Diary' section on page 2 provides a schedule of upcoming BUFORA lectures and information for publicising events.

BUFORA Lectures:

• 1st October: 'The View from the Hill' - Speaker Andy Roberts at the LBS.
• 5th November: 'Sightings in South Africa' - Speaker Cynthia Hind at the LBS.
• 3rd December: 'Leylines & UFOs' - Speaker Roger Sandell at the LBS.

These lectures are held every first Saturday of the month at the London Business School, Sussex Place, Outer Circle, Regents Park, London, NW1. The LBS is a five-minute walk from Baker Street tube station. Lectures commence at 6.30pm, and all are welcome. Full lecture programmes can be obtained from BUFORA (LP), 16 Southway, Burgess Hill, Sussex, RH15 9ST.

Event Publicisation:

Individuals wishing to publicise an event on this page, free of charge, are invited to write to the editor (Diary) at 103 Hove Avenue, Walthamstow, London E17 7NG, submitting their information three months in advance.

Book Promotion: UFOs 1947-1987

Page 2 also features a prominent advertisement for the book 'UFOs 1947-1987: The 40-Year Search for an Explanation'. This anthology, compiled and edited by Hilary Evans and John Spencer for the British UFO Research Association, commemorates 40 years of worldwide investigation into unexplained aerial phenomena, commonly termed UFOs.

The book contains commissioned articles and represents a statement of informed opinion about UFO sightings, reports, close encounters, and related subjects. It includes selections of significant cases that continue to defy explanation and offers a wide range of thinking on the origin of the UFO. The book is available from BUFORA, 16 Southway, Burgess Hill, Sussex, RH15 9ST, priced at £12.50 including postage and packing, and is described as 'Essential reading'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the critical importance of proper archival management for UFO research. BUFORA is making a significant effort to professionalise its data handling, recognising the need for a centralised, organised, and computerised system to effectively manage its vast collection of case reports. The editorial stance is one of proactive problem-solving, acknowledging past shortcomings and rallying support (both volunteer and financial) for a crucial undertaking. The inclusion of regular lectures and the promotion of a comprehensive historical overview of UFO research ('UFOs 1947-1987') further underscore BUFORA's commitment to advancing the field through organised research, public engagement, and historical documentation.