Canadian UFO Report - vol 1 no 5 - 1969

Magazine Overview

Title: CANADIAN UFO REPORT
Issue: Volume 1, Number 5
Date: September - October, 1969
Price: Sixty Cents

Editorial Stance

The editorial, titled "Hardware or Ghosts?", sets the tone for the issue by acknowledging humanity's recent achievements in space exploration (moon landing, Mars study) but lamenting the lack of scientific openness to the UFO phenomenon. The editors position themselves as observers of scientific methods, not practitioners, and aim to support those who believe in the UFO mystery and counteract skepticism. They acknowledge the difficulty in drawing a line between credible and less credible accounts but express a preference for the idea that extraterrestrial operators share the universe, rather than delving into more speculative theories like teleportation or dimensional beings.

Key Articles and Features

Odd Lights Over Naval Base

This feature, highlighted on the cover, details a significant sighting over the Canadian Forces Base at Esquimalt near Victoria, B.C. Hermanus Voorsluys, an amateur astronomer, first noticed a strange orange glow in September 1968. The object moved slowly, hovered, turned fiery red-orange, and dropped pieces of material. Voorsluys collaborated with his neighbor, Reginald Neal, a retired police officer. On September 29, they photographed the object, which Neal described as "the best UFO shot" by an official from the Defence Research Naval Laboratory. The object was described as changing course, moving at various speeds, changing color from blue-white to deep orange and once deep red, and resting for periods. Its distance made shape estimation difficult, and it was too bright to discern details. The National Research Council in Ottawa analyzed four photos but concluded that the detail was likely due to camera motion, suggesting possibilities like flares, experimental balloons, or experimental aircraft. However, the witnesses refuted these explanations, noting the object's duration (15 minutes) and behavior, which did not match flares or balloons. A "very low vibrating noise" was also detected by the witnesses. The article includes photos of the object taken by both Voorsluys and Neal, along with a diagram of the object's configuration.

Aerial Visitor at Prairie Farm

This article details a sighting by Mrs. Martha Heggs, a housewife from Bengough, Saskatchewan, on February 19, 1968. The sighting occurred between 11:50 a.m. and 12:10 p.m. Mrs. Heggs heard a high-pitched whine that became more intense, causing a tingling sensation. She observed a 'thing' slowly circling a power pole with a transformer. The object then moved to various locations on the farm yard, circling bins, tractors, trucks, and an electric motor operated water pump. It descended to within feet of the ground and hovered. Mrs. Heggs described the object's characteristics in detail: a lower portion of two shallow plates, an inverted bowl superstructure, a smaller vented dome, an aerial with a sphere, and six or seven 'arch'-shaped ports resembling frosted glass. The object was dull aluminum colored with no shine or reflection, and its construction appeared to be of four large plates with riveted seams. It circled to the left, banking slightly into turns, and traveled at a slow walk until it sped up to a fast walk when exiting. The object did not rotate. Mrs. Heggs felt the object was intelligently controlled and not hostile. Her dog was cowering, and cattle took flight during the sighting. The article includes a drawing of the object based on Mrs. Heggs' description. The Saskatchewan Unidentified Phenomena Research (SUPR) group investigated the case.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters from readers are included:

• Mrs. L.E. Kirchner of Indian Head, Sask., describes two sightings of a bright blue-white light that approached, hovered, turned orange, and then departed. She notes the odd feeling and "goose pimples" preceding the sightings and discusses the possibility of it being a train light, which she dismisses based on her familiarity with the CPR "Canadian" train's lights.
• David Bailey of Scarborough, Ont., compares Mrs. Kirchner's sighting to a case reported by William Weitzel, suggesting authorities should re-examine such well-documented cases.
• Norma E. Short of Stover, Missouri, praises the magazine's quality and content.
• Elsie Graeper of Errington, B.C., recounts a 1962 sighting of a UFO over Mount Arrowsmith, which disappeared instantly.
• Douglas Leary of Hayward, Calif., urges witnesses to report sightings despite fear of ridicule, emphasizing that "Believers" in Canadian UFO Report are receptive to such accounts.
• William Kiehl of San Francisco, Calif., criticizes the U.S. air service and the Condon report, calling them "slop" designed to keep people in the dark about UFOs.
• C. Villeneuve of Vancouver, B.C., states a belief in not being alone, though not necessarily in "little green men."
• Mrs. Catherine Fraser (editor of the Omineca Herald) is mentioned in relation to the Rosswood sighting.
• James R. McLean, a commercial aircraft pilot, reported seeing a glowing object over Victoria that he could not explain, matching descriptions from Voorsluys and Neal.

Other Mentions

• The article mentions a "Mountainside Mystery" in the Yukon from 1967, where a UFO was described with a cone-shaped light beneath it.
• A UFO chase involving Ohio policeman Dale Spaur in 1966 is referenced.
• A water-borne UFO in 1914 is mentioned as having been reported in a previous issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are detailed witness testimonies of unexplained aerial phenomena, photographic evidence, and the analysis of these sightings. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of investigating and acknowledging the UFO mystery, aiming to provide a platform for believers and counteracting what they perceive as excessive skepticism from official scientific circles. The magazine emphasizes the importance of detailed reporting and the value of comparing similar sightings across different locations and times to build a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.

This issue of the Canadian UFO Report, Volume 1, Number 3, dated October 1967, features a cover headline "Funny Business Under Rockies" and explores a variety of topics related to unidentified flying objects, historical anomalies, and indigenous folklore. The magazine's content suggests a critical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena, blending investigative journalism with historical analysis and speculative thought.

"Funny Business Under Rockies"

This section critically examines a recent article in Argosy magazine that posits flying saucers originate in Canada. The article, based on information from Renato Vesco, a self-proclaimed aerospace specialist and former Italian government undercover agent, alleges that experimental aircraft are being produced in the mountainous regions of British Columbia and Alberta. These facilities are described as underground, hidden within primeval forests, and are supposedly photographed by high-altitude planes without disturbing Canadian or British authorities. The author of this piece expresses skepticism regarding the geographical details presented, questioning the dismissal of established transportation routes like the Pacific Great Eastern line and the Canadian Pacific Railway, and finding the mention of Vancouver as a point of entry puzzling given its location.

Charles Lindbergh on Space Travel and Consciousness

This section presents excerpts from a letter by Charles Lindbergh to Life magazine, where he discusses the seemingly insoluble physical problems of cosmic-scale space travel. Lindbergh suggests that Mars and Venus might represent "dead ends" for current spaceship technology, but that breakthroughs could lead to advanced vehicles. He posits that future adventures lie beyond the solar system, in voyages inconceivable by 20th-century rationality, requiring a combination of scientific knowledge and "wisdom of wildness." He believes that through evolving awareness, humanity can merge with the miraculous, and that experience may travel without the need for a physical body. Lindbergh also speculates that sensory perception must combine with the extrasensory to unlock future discoveries.

Are UFOs Extra-Terrestrial?

Authored by Brian C. Cannon, this article traces the history of UFO sightings back to 1897, citing reports of "cigar-shaped air ships" and illuminated objects. It also references a 1254 A.D. account of an "elegantly shaped" air ship seen by English monks. Cannon questions the terrestrial origin of such intelligently controlled objects, arguing that if such technology existed on Earth, current efforts in aerospace development would be unnecessary. He suggests that the vastness of the universe, with its billions of stars and galaxies, makes the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence and the possibility of interplanetary travel highly probable. The article touches upon the scientific challenges of interstellar travel, such as the immense distances involved, but notes advancements in accelerating particles to near light speed and theoretical concepts for interstellar engines that could refuel en route.

Fiery Flying Object

This report details a sighting from August 13, 1957, in Preston, Ontario, Canada. Two police constables and a fireman observed a "huge, shining object, circular in plan" that appeared to have fire jetting from its front or back. The object exhibited unusual behavior, moving in spurts, stopping dead, hovering, and then darting away at tremendous speeds, unlike any known aircraft. The witnesses described it as "unbelievable" and confirmed it was not an airplane.

Strange Warriors

Written by M.B. Gaunt, this historical narrative recounts the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. It describes the dire situation of King Henry V's English army, outnumbered and facing a large French force. The article highlights the superiority of the English longbowmen, who were rigorously trained and free men with contracts, unlike the French feudal knights. A key element of the story is the suggestion that the English archers received assistance from "mysterious warriors in the sky" whose missiles flashed like lightning, contributing to their improbable victory against overwhelming odds. This tale is presented as a legend passed down through generations, worthy of inclusion in a publication focused on aerial phenomena.

UFO Stories of Northwest Indians

Authored by Richard Hack, this section explores Native American legends from the Northern Rockies region, focusing on tales of the "Little People" or "Stick Indians." These beings are described as being about 3 feet tall, resembling humans, wearing deer skins, and living in deep forests. They are said to possess incredible strength, the ability to turn invisible, and to make strange sounds. The legends include accounts of the Little People demanding food, causing physical ailments (like facial swelling), and kidnapping children. The article draws parallels between these ancient legends and modern UFO sightings, particularly concerning the physical effects on witnesses and the unexplained nature of the phenomena. The author notes that these legends are preserved by tribes with a strong oral tradition and retentive memory.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the historical presence of unexplained aerial phenomena, the potential for extraterrestrial visitation, and the interpretation of ancient myths and legends through the lens of modern UFO studies. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories without necessarily endorsing them as definitive fact. There is a clear effort to connect historical events and folklore with contemporary UFO reports, suggesting that the phenomena may have a long and varied history. The magazine encourages readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional explanations, particularly in the realms of aerospace technology, consciousness, and the vastness of the universe.

This issue of Canadian UFO Report, with content spanning pages 20-28, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, focusing on ancient legends, planetary observations, and numerous UFO sightings. The publication appears to be from the late 1960s or early 1970s, given the context of the Mars missions and the subscription rates offered.

Indigenous Legends and Modern UFOs

The issue begins by exploring the legends of the 'Little People' among North American indigenous tribes like the Arapaho, Gros Ventres, and Blackfeet. These beings are described as small (3 ft. high), black-skinned, powerfully built, and possessing a crude sign language. They are credited with carving rock houses in Wyoming, Northeast Minnesota, and Montana. Stories recount their cannibalistic nature and the tribes' efforts to eradicate them. The article draws parallels between these ancient tales and modern reports of encounters with small, strong, and seemingly invulnerable creatures, suggesting a possible continuity or connection to the UFO phenomenon.

The 'Little People' are also linked to the Medicine Wheel, a large stone structure in Wyoming. A Crow Indian chief's story tells of being visited by three little men and a woman there, who led him to an underground passage. The author suggests investigating areas described by Northern Rockies Indian tribes as abodes of the Little People, and also looking into UFO phenomena in these regions. The possibility is raised that ancient 'Little People' might be the same beings as modern 'Aliens,' employing advanced techniques.

Dan Fry and Presidential Attention

A section highlights Dan Fry, who claims to have a Doctor of Philosophy degree and to be in communication with extraterrestrial beings. President Richard Nixon's administration reportedly showed interest in Fry's claims, with Nixon requesting recommendations for administration positions and Presidential Aide Harry S. Fleming thanking Fry for his 'thoughtful recommendation.' This attention is attributed to Fry's assertion that extraterrestrials have solved problems of war, poverty, and disease.

H.G. Wells and Mars Observations

The issue references H.G. Wells' 'The War of the Worlds' as a work of imagination that foreshadowed future understanding, quoting a passage describing a Martian spaceship that could pass as a credible UFO sighting report even today.

The main focus on Mars examines photographs released by NASA from the Mariner 6 and 7 missions. While scientists generally conclude that life of any substantial form is absent, the magazine argues that the images reveal forms of geometric precision that suggest intelligent life exists on the planet. The article questions the lack of publicity given to these features, suggesting a scientific preference to label them as natural eccentricities rather than manufactured structures. Specific formations discussed include a large, pimple-like feature in the Elysium region, the 'W-cloud,' the 'Agathadaemon canal' (a straight, long band), and a 'ditch' near the south polar cap. The possibility of life existing in the polar region, protected by a carbon dioxide cloud, is also mentioned. The article highlights the mystery of bright lines shaped in intricate loops in the Tharsis-Candor region, identified as the crater Nix Olympia, and speculates about advanced races protecting areas from meteors, referencing Nicholas Tesla's theories.

Catalog of UFO Sightings and Vehicles

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to cataloging various UFO sightings and photographic evidence, often accompanied by illustrations of different 'flying saucer' models. These cases span different locations and dates, with varying degrees of authenticity noted:

• Jaroslaw Brothers (January 9, 1967): Saw a mysterious object hovering over Lake St. Clair, Michigan. (Authenticity doubtful).
• W.C. Hall (1954): An Australian rancher photographed a well-defined UFO hovering over his sheep.
• Paul Trent (Spring 1950): Photographed a saucer on his farm in McMinnville, Oregon, considered genuine by experts.
• Ralph Ditter (November 13, 1966): Saw and photographed a metallic object rotating and hovering near Zanesville, Ohio. (Definite hoax).
• Gianpietro Monguzzi (July 31, 1952): Witnessed a circular machine with a transparent dome land in the Bernina Mountains, with a humanoid emerging. (Confessed hoax).
• George Stock (July 29, 1952): Took seven photos of a UFO over Passaic, New Jersey. (NICAP rejects the pictures).
• West Virginian Schoolboys: Filmed an object similar to George Adamski's 'Scout Ship'. (Dubious).
• B.J. Colley (October 26, 1967): Experienced vehicle electrical failure and saw a dark object near Reading, UK.
• Colin Perks (March 2, 1966): Saw a bell-shaped object hovering in Wilmslow, Cheshire, UK.
• Mrs. Tully (February 24, 1966): Saw a rotating UFO on her property in Tully, Australia.
• Kenneth Arnold (June 24, 1947): Saw nine gleaming objects over Washington, coining the term 'flying saucer'.
• Melbourne Business Executive (April 2, 1966): Photographed a bell-shaped object over Balwyn, Australia.
• South African Police (September 16, 1965): Encountered a saucer on the Pretoria-Bronks highway, which left physical evidence.
• Paul Green (September 14, 1965): Saw an enormous object hovering near Mersea Island, Essex, UK.
• Akron Police (April 1966): Five policemen observed a saucer resembling one seen by the Jaroslaw brothers.
• Edwards Air Force Base Incident: A Martin B-57 was paced by a UFO.
• Paul Villa (June 16, 1963): Photographed a saucer near Albuquerque, New Mexico. (NICAP rejects the pictures).

Descriptions of UFO vehicles include various saucer and bell shapes, some with domes, lights, and emitting humming noises. Some sightings are noted as potentially hoaxes or of doubtful authenticity by NICAP.

Publications and Organizations

The issue also promotes related publications and organizations:

• Spacelink: A well-illustrated magazine on the UFO mystery, published by Lionel Beer in London.
• UFO Detector: Advertised as a serious research tool for detecting magnetic fields.
• Saucers, Space & Science: Canada's own flying saucer magazine, offering subscriptions.
• Youth Aeronautic and Aerospace of Canada (YAAC): An organization for individuals and clubs interested in rocketry, encouraging membership and participation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of UFOs, the potential for intelligent life beyond Earth (both on Mars and through extraterrestrial visitors), and the connection between ancient myths and modern sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and evidence while acknowledging skepticism and potential hoaxes, encouraging readers to judge for themselves. There is a clear interest in exploring the possibility of extraterrestrial contact and its implications for humanity, including the idea that these visitors might be influencing or observing us in ways we don't fully understand.