1997 - Men in Black Robert Bull

Magazine Overview

This document is a preliminary report titled "Men In Black" by Robert Bull, published in August 1997 by the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) Ltd. It serves as an in-depth exploration of the phenomenon of 'Men In Black' (MIBs), mysterious individuals often associated with UFO sightings and investigations.

Introducing Men In Black

The report begins by defining Men In Black as enigmatic figures who sometimes question, threaten, and harass UFO witnesses and researchers. They are typically described as wearing black suits, possessing 'oriental' features, and posing as military or secret service personnel, often presenting identity cards. Their demeanor and behavior are often perceived as non-human, leaving witnesses with a lasting impression of strangeness. Popularly, MIBs are described as appearing in threes, traveling in large, old-model black cars (like Cadillacs) with untraceable registrations, having dark complexions, appearing infrequently outside the USA, and demonstrating knowledge unknown to the witness. The report notes that while some MIB cases exhibit these characteristics, it's not true for the majority.

The Albert K. Bender Case

The report dedicates significant attention to the Albert K. Bender case. In April 1952, Albert K. Bender, a factory supervisor from Bridgeport, Connecticut, founded the International Flying Saucer Bureau (IFSB), which rapidly expanded. In September 1953, the IFSB abruptly closed down. Bender claimed he had discovered the 'secret' of flying saucers and had written it down as a thesis. The day after posting it to a friend, he was visited by three men in black suits. Two of the men confirmed his theory and provided missing details, but the information so appalled Bender that he agreed to disband the IFSB and cease his research, promising to tell no one. Bender described the encounter as frightening, stating one man watched him constantly, and he was sick for three days afterward. Later, Bender received a telephoned warning after mentioning his theory and the visit to a friend, indicating he had made a 'bad slip' and should be more careful.

The New Haven Fireball

This section details an incident on August 19, 1953, in New Haven, Connecticut. Residents heard a loud 'swoosh,' experienced trembling buildings, and dimmed lights. A single witness described a red ball of fire, six to eight inches in diameter, that crashed through a signboard, leaving a hole in the 20-gauge steel. IFSB representative August Roberts investigated, collecting a metal sample from the hole for analysis by Bender, the results of which were never announced.

The Closedown

On September 16, 1953, Bender sent a routine letter to Gray Barker, but its tone was stilted and formal. A peculiar third paragraph instructed Barker not to accept new memberships until after the October issue of Space Review. The next day, Barker received a tape from Dominick Lucchesi detailing a conversation with Bender. Bender, initially reticent, eventually revealed he knew the 'secret of the disks' and had been visited by 'three men' who confiscated back issues of Space Review. He stated the men had dictated the contents of the next issue and declared, 'The truth is fantastic!'

Bender Interviewed

On October 4, 1953, Bender met with Roberts and Lucchesi. Although he insisted the conversation not be recorded, Roberts took notes. Bender was evasive when questioned about the identity of the men, their origin (government or otherwise), the nature of saucers, and his source of information, often responding with 'I can't answer that.' He implied the government had known about saucers for two years and would eventually have to reveal what they are. He stated he was threatened with 'trouble' if he spoke further and confirmed the men wore dark clothes and black hats, and possessed addresses of IFSB members.

The Last Issue of Space Review

The October 1953 issue of Space Review contained two cryptic items. A 'LATE BULLETIN' stated that the flying saucer mystery was nearing its solution, but information was being withheld by a 'higher source.' A 'STATEMENT OF IMPORTANCE' declared the mystery was no longer a mystery, but the information was being withheld. The issue advised those involved in saucer work to be 'very cautious.'

Maury Island

Gray Barker recalled the Maury Island incident, where Coast Guard Commander Harold Dahl reported seeing six flying saucers, one of which spewed molten metal fragments. The day after the incident, Dahl was visited by a man in a black suit who warned him not to discuss the experience if he valued his family. The report notes that the Maury Island case was later revealed to be a hoax, with the 'molten metal' being plutonium slag and the 'man in black' an AEC security agent.

An Australian Connection?

Bender mentioned a letter from Edgar Jarrold, head of the Australian Flying Saucer Bureau (AFSB). Jarrold reported a visit from a stranger who provided amazing information about saucers and emphasized secrecy. Jarrold's visitor stated that 'dangerous ignorance and hostility' prevented open landings by extraterrestrials and warned of 'horrifying destructive forces.' Jarrold's visitor also produced evidence of his 'position and qualifications.' Jarrold also reported mysterious phone calls and poltergeist activity. Barker noted similarities between Jarrold's experience and Bender's, suggesting a possible connection.

Bender Tells All?

In 1962, almost 10 years after closing the IFSB, Bender published his book, "Flying Saucers and the Three Men," which claimed to reveal the identity of the MIBs and the origin of flying saucers.

Early Signs

Bender's strange experiences began on July 30, 1952, with a telepathic warning received via a phone call not to pursue the flying saucer mystery further. About three months later, he experienced a throbbing headache and a bluish flash in the sky, feeling lifted from the ground, with a voice again telling him to forget the IFSB. In November 1952, while at the cinema, Bender noticed a man with eyes like 'flashlight bulbs' who appeared and disappeared, always maintaining eye contact. The man's clothing was described as 'too neat.'

The Nightmare Begins

In February 1953, Bender heard footsteps and saw a face with glowing eyes forming in a corner of his bedroom, which disappeared leaving a sulphurous odor. On March 15, 1953, he experienced a cold chill, headache, and the sulphurous odor returned. He felt as if he was observing his own body from above. A voice then filled his head, warning him to discontinue his research into the mysteries of the universe, stating they would appear if he disobeyed. The voice claimed a 'special assignment' and that they were among humans and knew their every move. Bender felt watched, his body felt like it was dropping, and he found himself back on his bed in a room filled with a yellowish mist, from which a man-shaped shadow emerged and disappeared.

Around this time, Bender confided in IFSB members about his experiences and his intention to publish. They were unsympathetic and threatened to resign. He wrote his account, but it disappeared from a locked box, which then contained the sulphurous odor. In July 1953, upon returning from vacation, Bender again smelled the sulphurous odor and found his radio on. Later that evening, three shadowy figures materialized from a bluish glow in his room. Dressed in black suits and hats, their eyes lit up, causing Bender pain and conveying a message. The message acknowledged Bender's dedication but warned his research could lead to harm, and that no one would believe them. They stated he would not deter their plans on Earth and that they had already killed inquisitive people.

Women in Black

This section briefly mentions 'Men in White' and 'A Man In White, A White Car, A Black Helicopter,' suggesting a possible variation or related phenomenon.

MIBs in History

This section, along with 'MIB Characteristics and Theories,' likely delves into historical accounts and theoretical explanations for the MIB phenomenon, including their characteristics and potential origins.

A Brief Description of BUFORA and its Activities

This part of the report provides information about BUFORA, its aims, activities, publications, and how to contact them. It also briefly touches upon 'About UFOs.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the report is the mysterious and often intimidating nature of the Men In Black phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation of witness accounts and related incidents, aiming to present the available information and theories surrounding MIBs. The report emphasizes the secretive and potentially dangerous aspects of this phenomenon, suggesting a level of cover-up or suppression of information related to UFOs.

This issue of "The Saucerian" (November 1953) focuses on the extraordinary claims of Albert Bender, a UFO researcher, under the headline "Bender's story: The truth?". The magazine delves into Bender's alleged encounters with extraterrestrials and Men In Black (MIBs), examining the details of his experiences and exploring various interpretations.

Bender's Encounters and Revelations

The narrative begins with Bender's account of being visited by two men who claimed to have 'craft' hidden on Earth. They left him a piece of metal, instructing him to contact them again by holding the metal, turning on his radio, closing his eyes, and repeating the word 'Kazik'. After this initial encounter, Bender found the metal disc in his hand, which he secured in his strongbox. The next day, the disc was gone, leading him to question the reality of the experience. However, on the appointed day for the next 'visitation', the disc reappeared. When Bender handled it, the metal became red hot, suggesting the visitors did not want the evidence revealed.

Bender then describes being taken to a circular room with a glass dome and metallic walls, where a large tubular object was mounted on the wall. A figure appeared and welcomed him to 'our domain', warning him he would see unbelievable things. The tubular object came to life, displaying a three-dimensional view of the aliens' home planet, part of a system formed from a 'central source' at the heart of the universe. The figure explained that on their planet there was only one race, unlike Earth's many warring races. The purpose of their visit was to extract a 'valuable chemical' from Earth's seas, vital to their race. The extraction process left a 'sticky residue', which was previously discharged from saucers over land but was now discharged over the sea. The display then showed the Pentagon, with the aliens claiming to have people stationed there to keep them informed. A nuclear weapon stockpile in the USA was also shown, with the aliens stating they could detonate all nuclear weapons on Earth if discovered and confronted.

A hideous monster then appeared on the display, which the voice explained was the true appearance of a member of the alien race. It was revealed that Earth people's appearance would change over millions of years due to nuclear experiments. The aliens had males, females, and 'others' who were 'exalted ones' and rulers. Their population control involved storing eggs and only allowing them to hatch when 'the great blackness covers our planet'. After this, Bender found himself back in his room.

Bender's friend reacted disdainfully to his story, accusing him of seeking publicity for the IFSB (International Fellowship for Saucer Aviation), leaving Bender feeling isolated.

Fantasy and Paranoia?

Bender decided to address the IFSB committee by stating he had been visited by 'certain individuals' who revealed 'truth' behind flying saucers and warned him to cease his research. He claimed these visitors had shown 'credentials' and that publication of his knowledge was withheld by a 'higher source'. He decided to discontinue publishing 'Space Review'.

In August 1953, Bender experienced another 'visitation' with three men in black, accompanied by a whiff of sulphur.

The Last Days of the IFSB

Bender's heart pounded as the men entered his room, dressed in black. They took him to their base on Earth, described as an immense cavern in Antarctica, resembling a James Bond movie set with vast laboratories and monorails. He saw a flying saucer 'hangar' and a seawater processing area, though the process was not to be discussed. He was then taken to an auditorium where a nine-foot tall figure in a gold uniform, an 'exalted one', addressed him. This figure stated they had been on Earth since 1945 and planned to stay another 15 years. They admitted to killing Earth people on occasions if it was 'necessary' and warned Bender he could be dealt with similarly if he became an 'obstacle'. He was told that a cure for cancer would eventually be found, with increased use of motor vehicles being a major factor.

Scenes of 'shooting practice' with large guns were shown on the alien home planet. When Bender asked for physical proof, he was told a small saucer would shoot a fireball through something of little value near his home. The next day, a local paper reported a 'MYSTERY BLAST SHATTERS SIGN IN NEW HAVEN, CONN.'

An IFSB investigator, 'Augie' Roberts, examined a hole in a signboard and found a residue analyzed as mainly copper and copper oxide, though foreign to the sign. Roberts and Dom Lucchesi became concerned and interviewed Bender, who reacted strongly to the mention of 'Antarctica'. Bender had been warned by the three men not to reveal anything during the interview.

Bender's most horrifying encounter involved a ten-foot tall, greenish creature with glowing red eyes. He fainted, and upon recovery, found the rug scorched and smelled sulphur.

Other saucer research groups reacted to the IFSB's closure. The British Flying Saucer Bureau (BFSB) contacted MI6, who gave them an 'all clear'. Edgar Jarrold of the Australian Flying Saucer Bureau exchanged letters with Bender, mentioning a 'visitor'. A later report suggested Jarrold had a serious accident, pushed down stairs in Sydney.

The Bridgeport Sunday Herald leaked Bender's story, causing him ridicule and persecution. His telephone rang constantly.

Women in White

Bender's final visit involved three beautiful women in white uniforms who approached him. He was paralyzed and laid on an operating table. They applied a liquid to his body, and a device from the ceiling illuminated him, causing the pain above his eyes to vanish. A cowled figure told him this was a 'preventative' treatment. The 'exalted one' then appeared, stating a 'marker' had been placed on him for surveillance and could be used to 'destroy his body' if he revealed their secret. He was told he would not be visited again, but could contact them by rubbing the metal disc. Their mission was at an 'advanced stage', and the disc would disappear when they left Earth. He was warned of 'unbearable headaches' if he revealed their secret.

Bender is Freed

In April 1956, Gray Barker's book 'They Knew Too Much About Flying Saucers' was published, bringing more publicity to Bender and his wife Betty. The metal disc remained in his strongbox, and he suffered from headaches. In August 1957, he met Edgar Plunkett, president of the BFSB. Barker urged Bender to write a book, which he began in late 1958. However, the familiar smell of sulphur returned, and a voice on the telephone ordered him to stop writing. The typed sheets of his story vanished.

Bender received no more 'visits' but continued to suffer from headaches. In late 1960, the metal disc was gone from its box, replaced by powdery dust. He decided to write to Barker, ready to tell his story. Although Bender received no more 'visits', he was still plagued by headaches. A final article in the Sunday Herald led to him losing his remaining friends from the IFSB, except for Gray Barker, who published Bender's book in 1962. Barker believed Bender was sincere, even if he didn't believe the literal truth of his tales.

Assessment

The article presents several alternatives for Bender's story: fabrication, a psychological condition, or literal truth. It questions Bender's motive for fabricating the story, given the ridicule he faced. The ten-year gap between his encounters and the book's publication is noted, suggesting potential corroboration. The possibility of a psychiatric condition is raised, citing Bender's prior interest in ghosts and 'black magic', and symptoms like 'demonomania', headaches, upset stomach, anorexia, and lacunar amnesia. Paranoid schizophrenia is also considered, with symptoms including delusions and hallucinations.

Despite the lack of physical evidence, the article notes that MIB reports have persisted. Bender's MIBs were unusual in wearing black shirts and materializing into his vision. The article draws parallels between Bender's story and earlier cases like the Maury Island incident (later shown to be a hoax) and imagery from films like 'The Day The Earth Stood Still'. It also notes similarities to the Antonio Villas Boas experience.

Michael Swords suggests an 'Earthly' explanation, proposing that the 'New Haven Fireball' fragments were from a shell or missile, and that Navy intelligence agents may have fabricated the Bender affair to manipulate the UFO community. The Robertson Panel recommended monitoring of private UFO groups by the CIA.

Keith Basterfield found evidence that Jarrold's 'mysterious visitor' was known to him, and Jarrold ceased research due to personal difficulties, not MIBs. Harold Fulton and Jim Moseley denied any MIB encounters.

The article highlights an inconsistency between Bender's accounts in 1953 and his 1962 book, particularly regarding a 'thesis' he allegedly sent to a friend, which the MIBs supposedly returned. Bender's accounts of 'C-Day' and subsequent events vary, and the 'thesis' clue is only found in a letter from Jarrold.

The issue concludes by posing the question of whether Bender's story is the ravings of a sick man or the truth, quoting Mark Twain: 'Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities. Truth isn't.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are alien contact, the existence and nature of Men In Black (MIBs), government secrecy and potential cover-ups, and the psychological interpretation of UFO experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, presenting Bender's claims in detail while also exploring alternative explanations and questioning the veracity of the events. The article aims to inform the reader and allow them to draw their own conclusions about the truth of Bender's extraordinary story.

This issue of UFO Annual, dated 1981, focuses on the phenomenon of Men In Black (MIBs) and other unexplained encounters. It presents several detailed case studies, primarily from the United Kingdom and Mexico, exploring witness testimonies, physical evidence, and the psychological impact of these events.

The Hopkins MIB Saga

The issue begins with an account of Dr Hopkins, a respected doctor, who reported an encounter with a stranger in a dark suit and dark glasses who warned him to keep his mouth shut. Subsequently, his daughter-in-law, Maureen, was contacted by individuals claiming to be from an organization that did not exist. These visitors, a man and a woman, appeared in their mid-thirties, wore old-fashioned clothes, and exhibited odd physical characteristics and behaviors. They asked intrusive personal questions and made sexually suggestive remarks to Maureen. Their departure was as abrupt and strange as their arrival, walking in straight lines and leaving without a word.

The assessment suggests that Dr Hopkins's account was likely real, with physical marks on his driveway corroborating his story, but the identity of the visitors remains a mystery, with the 'New Jersey UFO Research Organisation' being a fabrication.

MIBs in Mexico: Carlos de los Santos Montiel

This section details the experience of Carlos de los Santos Montiel, a pilot who encountered three disc-shaped UFOs near Mexico City in May 1975. The objects caused his light aircraft to shake, and his controls became unresponsive. Following the encounter, he was approached by two men in black suits who threatened him, warning him not to speak about his sighting. Despite this, Carlos later met with UFO researcher Dr J. Allen Hynek. During this meeting, he was again confronted by one of the men who reiterated the threat. The men were described as tall, pale, and white, with a mechanical speech pattern, and they never blinked. The case is noted as a 'typical' MIB case, with the added physical evidence of damage to Carlos's plane.

UK Cases: MIBs at the Convent

Maria Korn, a 14-year-old boarder at a convent in Milton Keynes, experienced a UFO sighting in 1980, observing a flashing ball-shaped light in the tennis court and later a whirling object. This left a circular depression on the court. Several months later, two men dressed in black visited Maria at the convent, claiming to be associated with her psychiatrist, Dr Black. They exhibited unusual characteristics, including identical appearances, smooth featureless skin, and unnervingly cold hands. They asked Maria if anything strange had happened, and she denied it. The men departed abruptly, with their hair not moving despite a windy day, and their black car had unusual features, including mirror windows and a silent operation. Dr Black later denied sending the men. Maria subsequently developed extraordinary abilities, including spoon bending, out-of-body experiences, and vivid dreams of being inside a UFO.

A Man In Black does his Shopping: Mrs Evans's Encounters

This extensive section details numerous encounters of Mrs Evans with 'Men In Black' and other strange figures. In 1977, she encountered a tall man in black in a grocer's shop who stared at her unnervingly. He later vanished without moving. Mrs Evans also described encounters with a man who accompanied her for over a week, a figure that bolted from her kitchen, a 'frogman'-like figure, and a small man in an RAF-like uniform who also vanished. These figures often had unusual physical characteristics, such as pale skin, jet-black eyes, and stiff gaits. Mrs Evans also reported a wealth of other unexplainable experiences, including UFO sightings, poltergeist activity, psychic premonitions, and doppelgänger sightings. The article notes that many of her experiences were witnessed by others, lending credibility to her claims. The author personally recalls seeing a UFO in the Portsmouth area during the 1970s.

Assessment of Mrs Evans's Case

The assessment highlights the unusual nature of Mrs Evans's MIB experience, as she saw UFOs only after the MIB encounters. The presence of other witnesses to many of her experiences, and the corroborating UFO sighting reports from the local press, strengthen the reality of her claims. The author speculates on Jungian projections but dismisses them as unprovable. The symptoms experienced by Mrs Evans, such as an 'upset stomach' and partial amnesia, are noted as being reminiscent of Albert Bender's 'demonomania', but there is no evidence of indulgence in similar fantasies. The assessment concludes that Mrs Evans is a sincere and remarkable individual who has had extraordinary experiences.

Postscript

A postscript mentions a potential link between Mrs Evans's experiences and Ted Pratt, who was involved in a 'CE3' encounter with Joyce Bowles, suggesting Ted Pratt may have had his own MIB experiences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the mysterious and often intimidating nature of Men In Black, their alleged interactions with UFO witnesses, and the broader spectrum of unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings and psychic abilities. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into these claims, presenting witness testimonies and expert assessments without outright dismissal, while acknowledging the speculative nature of some explanations. The focus is on documenting these unusual events and the individuals who experience them, suggesting a belief in the reality of the phenomena being reported.

This issue of UFO Times (dated September 1997, issue 34) is primarily dedicated to exploring the phenomenon of Men in Black (MIBs), their characteristics, historical context, and potential explanations. It also covers related topics such as historical UFO sightings, mysterious entities, and the activities of the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA).

Women in Black

The article notes that the author has not encountered cases of women dressed in black during his research, but mentions that some 'Bogus Social Workers' (a possible new MIB-type entity) are women. Albert Bender reported seeing women in white.

Men in White

While MIBs typically wear black, there are rare variations. Albert Bender also reported women in white, and there is at least one case of a man in white.

A Man In White, A White Car, A Black Helicopter

This section details an account from Lorraine, who was living in Cornwall. After an argument, she went to a bus shelter around midnight. She observed a bright light moving slowly downwards, which she initially disregarded. Soon after, she heard a car approaching at high speed. A large, white, American-looking car slowed to a normal speed and stopped in front of her. The car was gleaming white, with white upholstery and steering wheel. The driver, a young man, was dressed entirely in white, including a polo-neck jumper, trousers, shoes, and a white baseball cap. He had blond hair and wore sunglasses. Lorraine felt tempted to get into the car but resisted. She noted the car had no exhaust smell and the engine was silent. The car then drove off. Later, she became frightened and aware of a loud helicopter, which appeared black and showed no lights. It moved slowly alongside her, sweeping a searchlight downwards. She felt the light was meant for her and tried to avoid it. Reaching her house, she banged on the door, and her husband James let her in. He could not see or hear the helicopter, but Lorraine was convinced it had been chasing her. The next day, villagers confirmed they had neither seen nor heard the white car or the helicopter, raising questions about Lorraine's perception and the possibility of 'telescopic sense'. The account is noted as having a reversal of colour from typical MIB encounters but shares other consistent features.

MIBs in History

This section traces the history of MIB reports, suggesting the modern era began around 1952 or 1947, but similar entities existed earlier. The 1896-97 'airship wave' in the United States was preceded by a 'mystery man' who claimed to have invented a new kind of airship, presenting detailed drawings to an attorney in San Francisco. This man, described as dark-complexioned and dark-eyed, well-dressed, and projecting wealth, was untraceable. He later reappeared in San Francisco, approaching another legal adviser, William Hart, with similar claims about his airship invention, stating he did not want to make money from it.

The article also references earlier reports of entities similar to MIBs, particularly when the 'blackness' requirement is relaxed. It mentions 'three men' appearing to Abraham (Genesis 18:2), and speculates that the 'dark skinned men from the East' bringing gifts to the Christ Child might be another example of Biblical MIBs. Bedroom visitations of a 'man dressed in black' during the 1905 North Wales religious revival are also noted, where the man gave a message the woman was forbidden to relate. Preacher Mary Jones was associated with mysterious lights, and on one occasion, a black 'apparition' appeared during her sermon, which was dispelled by a white ray from one of her 'lights'. Reports of black figures transforming into large black dogs are also mentioned.

Montague Summers' book 'The Werewolf' (1933) describes a 1603 case in France where a young man confessed to acts of werewolfery under the orders of 'The Lord of the Forest', described as a tall dark man dressed in black, whom Summers identified as the devil. The Buddhist demon god Kal Bahairab is depicted with black skin, and 17th-century writer Richard Baxter recounts a story of the Devil appearing as a big, black man encouraging a woman to hang herself. The association of black with evil is discussed, referencing ancient Greek 'daimons'.

MIB Characteristics and Theories

This section details the consistently reported characteristics of MIBs. They typically wear black suits, white shirts, and black ties, all seemingly new and perfectly tailored. They have 'dark' complexions, often with an 'oriental' or 'foreign' appearance, and expressionless facial features. They speak in stiff, formal phrases, sounding like lines from an old 'B' movie. They often appear in threes and, if more than one, look identical, walking 'in formation'. They travel in large, black, old-model cars (like Cadillacs or Lincolns) that appear new and have untraceable registrations, sometimes bearing strange insignia. MIBs rarely appear outside the USA. They have smooth, featureless skin, no beard or 'shadow', and never seem to need to shave. Their hair is shiny black and perfectly styled. They possess knowledge known only to the witness and have unusually broad shoulders with narrow waists, walking bolt upright with a 'stiff' gait.

Other characteristics include witnesses perceiving them as real at the time but later recognizing their unreal qualities, their appearance to a lone witness, their never leaving tangible proof, and their ability to perform 'impossible' feats, especially in their appearance and disappearance.

Theories about MIBs are presented: 1. Government agents, tasked with silencing witnesses. 2. 'Projections' or hallucinations of the witness. 3. 'Real' entities. The government agent theory is popular among conspiracy theorists, suggesting MIBs are part of a cover-up. The USAF took the MIB phenomenon seriously in the 1960s, with reports of MIBs claiming to be Air Force Officers. A 1967 memorandum from Lt. General Hewitt T. Wheless warned defense agencies about individuals claiming to represent the Air Force or other defense establishments contacting UFO witnesses, demanding photos, or telling them not to talk about sightings. Jim Moseley suggests that MIBs might be confused with NICAP investigators, who would strongly urge witnesses not to talk to others to prevent their stories from being released to rival UFO organizations. The article dismisses the 'government agent' hypothesis due to MIBs' worldwide appearances, peculiar looks, and strange actions.

The hypothesis that MIBs are Jungian 'projections' or hallucinations is also discussed. While physical symptoms like headaches and amnesia are reported by MIB witnesses, the occurrence of MIBs appearing to multiple witnesses makes the schizophrenia hypothesis untenable, as it would require simultaneous hallucinations. The fact that witnesses interact normally with MIBs (opening doors, talking, offering drinks) also mitigates against the hallucination theory.

Columbia's MIB Film

This section briefly mentions the UK release of Columbia Tristar's 'Men In Black' on August 1, 1997. It describes the film as a 'sci-fi comedy' with a tenuous connection to the true MIB phenomenon, based on a press release about Agents K and J working for an unofficial government agency that regulates aliens and investigates unregistered close encounters.

A Brief Description of BUFORA and its Activities

BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) was founded in 1962 as a federation of UK UFO groups. It is the UK's oldest UFO group, evolving from the British Flying Saucer Bureau (1952). BUFORA is a company limited by guarantee and is registered under the UK Data Protection Act. It is run by volunteers and funded by its members. Its three aims are: 1. To encourage and conduct unbiased scientific research of UFO phenomena in the UK. 2. To collect and disseminate UFO evidence and data. 3. To co-ordinate UFO research globally.

BUFORA supports active investigation and research teams. The Investigation team conducts on-site field investigations, while the Research team engages in statistical research and technical support. They maintain extensive libraries and a press cutting service. BUFORA organizes monthly lectures in London and regional meetings, and co-sponsors the International UFO Congress every other year. Members receive the publication 'UFO Times' (six issues per year) and can opt for 'UFO Newsfile' (also six issues per year) for a small charge. 'UFO Times' is edited by Mike Wootten and Andy Roberts, and 'UFO Newsfile' by Mike Hudson.

BUFORA operates the UFOCALL hot line, providing information on events via pre-recorded messages. BUFORA is a founder and the UK representative of the International Committee for UFO Research (ICUR). It publishes 'UFO Lexicon', an international glossary of UFO terms. BUFORA is involved in collaborative projects with other UFO groups worldwide and seeks to promote local branches. Its publications include 'The BUFORA Journal' (1965-1982), 'BUFORA Bulletin', 'Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena' (1979-1989), and 'UFO Times'. They also publish booklets and papers on specific research aspects and case studies, such as 'The Livingston Encounter', and 'UFO World', a review of UFO investigation globally.

About UFOs

This section briefly touches on the study of unidentified flying objects (UFOs), noting that its modern study is often attributed to Kenneth Arnold's 1947 report of 'nine peculiar aircraft' near Mount Rainier, Washington State. However, it acknowledges that reports of strange aerial phenomena go back to the turn of the century in the UK and earlier elsewhere. It states that there are many theories about the origins and nature of these objects, including natural phenomena and advanced technology, and that BUFORA does not advocate any particular theory.

References

A list of books and magazines is provided, including works by Gray Barker, Timothy Green Beckley, Albert Bender, Peter Brookesmith, John Keel, Margaret Sachs, and John Spencer, as well as publications like 'Fortean Times' and 'The Unexplained'.

Acknowledgements

A special thank you is extended to Steve Gamble, followed by a list of numerous individuals, including Brenda Baker, Keith Basterfield, Peter Brookesmith, Karen Brooks, Linda Bull, Mark Cashman, Paul Clarke, Richard Conway, Joe Daniels, Gloria Heather Dixon, Bob Digby, 'Mrs Evans', Hilary Evans, Steve Gerrard, Rod Howarth, Judith Jaafar, Graham Knewstub, Stuart Livesey, Andy Lunn, Jim Moseley, Dennis Plunkett, Andy Roberts, Steven Shipp, Colin Silk, John Spencer, Chris Walton, Philip Walton, and Dugald Wilson.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the Men in Black (MIB) phenomenon, historical accounts of mysterious visitors and entities, and the organized study of UFOs through organizations like BUFORA. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and witness accounts without definitively endorsing one over others, particularly regarding the nature of MIBs. The author leans towards the hypothesis that MIBs are a modern variation of historical 'entities' rather than flesh-and-blood humans or purely government agents. There is an emphasis on the need for unbiased scientific research and the collection of evidence in the study of UFO phenomena.

Title: UFO Nachrichten
Issue: 1999/04
Volume: 215
Date: April 1999
Publisher: G. M. G. GmbH
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0041-4216
Price: DM 7,50

This issue of UFO Nachrichten, titled "UFO-Sichtungen: Die Wahrheit über die Roswell-Lüge" (UFO Sightings: The Truth About the Roswell Lie), delves deeply into the controversial Roswell Incident of 1947. The magazine aims to expose what it posits as the truth behind the alleged government cover-up and the falsehoods surrounding the event. It features extensive analysis of witness testimonies, physical evidence, and critiques of official explanations, positioning itself as a source for uncovering hidden truths about UFO phenomena.

The Roswell Incident: Unraveling the "Lie"

The central theme of this issue is the re-examination of the Roswell Incident. The magazine challenges the official narrative presented by the U.S. Air Force, suggesting it was a deliberate fabrication to conceal the recovery of an extraterrestrial spacecraft and its occupants. Key figures like nuclear physicist Stanton Friedman and optical physicist Dr. Bruce Maccabee are cited for their ongoing investigations and theories. The issue highlights testimonies from individuals who claim to have witnessed the crash, handled debris, or been involved in the subsequent cover-up, including Major Jesse Marcel and General Roger Ramey. The nature of the recovered debris, described as metallic and possessing unusual properties, is discussed as crucial evidence. The magazine implies that the "Roswell lie" was perpetuated to prevent public panic and to allow for the study of advanced alien technology.

Key Witnesses and Evidence

Several individuals are presented as pivotal witnesses to the events surrounding the Roswell crash. Major Jesse Marcel, a U.S. Air Force intelligence officer, is frequently mentioned for his claims of having handled unusual debris from the crash site. Colonel Charles Holt is also cited, though his specific role or testimony is not detailed in the provided context. The testimonies of these individuals are contrasted with official statements, particularly those made by General Roger Ramey, who initially confirmed the recovery of a "flying disc" before later retracting the statement and attributing the debris to a weather balloon. The magazine scrutinizes these shifts in official accounts as evidence of a deliberate cover-up.

UFO Sightings and Government Secrecy

Beyond Roswell, the issue touches upon other significant UFO sightings and the broader context of government secrecy surrounding the phenomenon. The 1952 Washington D.C. UFO incident, where unidentified objects were observed over the U.S. capital, is mentioned as another instance of unexplained aerial activity that raised public concern and prompted military investigation. The magazine implies a pattern of government obfuscation and secrecy regarding UFOs, suggesting that official explanations are often designed to downplay or dismiss credible sightings. Organizations like NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) and MUFON (Mutual UFO Network) are implicitly or explicitly referenced as groups dedicated to investigating these phenomena and advocating for transparency.

Alien Technology and Extraterrestrial Hypothesis

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the concept of alien technology. The unusual properties attributed to the Roswell debris—such as its lightweight yet strong composition, resistance to damage, and peculiar markings—are presented as indicative of technology far beyond human capabilities in the 1940s. The magazine explores the implications of this hypothesis, suggesting that the study of such technology could have led to significant advancements, which the government may have sought to control. The extraterrestrial hypothesis is presented not just as a possibility but as the most plausible explanation for the evidence gathered.

Critiques of Official Explanations

The magazine actively critiques the official explanations offered for events like Roswell, often labeling them as insufficient or deliberately misleading. The weather balloon explanation for the Roswell debris is particularly targeted, with the magazine presenting arguments and evidence that contradict this theory. Similarly, other sightings are analyzed, and official explanations such as misidentification of conventional aircraft, atmospheric phenomena, or psychological factors are questioned. The work of researchers like Philip J. Klass, who often sought conventional explanations, is implicitly or explicitly challenged.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO cover-ups, government secrecy, the extraterrestrial hypothesis, and the critical examination of official narratives. The editorial stance is clearly pro-disclosure and strongly favors the interpretation that many unexplained aerial phenomena, particularly the Roswell Incident, are of extraterrestrial origin. The magazine positions itself as a voice for those who believe the public has a right to know the truth about UFOs and potential alien contact. It encourages readers to question official accounts and to consider alternative explanations based on witness testimonies and physical evidence.