Clypeus UFO and Fortean Phenomena - 1977 No 4

Magazine Overview

This issue of CLYPEUS UFO AND FORTEAN PHENOMENA, Volume I, Number 4, dated July-August 1977, is a bimonthly publication directed by Edoardo Russo and published by Gianni V. Settimo in Turin, Italy. The magazine is presented as a cultural and informational resource, sent free to members of the 'Gruppo Clypeus'. The editorial stance emphasizes the voluntary and free collaboration of its staff and expresses gratitude for their disinterested activity. The publication reserves absolute rights to all original content and requires attribution for any reproduction.

Table of Contents and Key Articles

The issue features a comprehensive table of contents, including:

• Editorial: A brief introductory piece.
• Osservatorio (Observatory): This section delves into several aerial phenomena reports, including "Ancora sulle aeronavi" (More on aerial ships), the "Pembroke triangle," the "English flap," the "Winchester case," "The second encounter," and "Third act and commentary."
• Casistica Recente (Recent Cases): A report on the "flap" in South Africa in 1972.
• CLYPEUS-Ricerche (CLYPEUS-Research): An exploration of ufological humor and the "warm welcome" in Fort Beaufort.
• Cornucopia: A collection of diverse phenomena, including "H 476 AC," "Yowie," "A new shark found," "Suicidal squids," and "Hunt for USO."
• Un autore/un libro (An Author/A Book): A review of Ted Bloecher's "Report on the UFO Wave of 1947."
• La grande ondata del 1947 (The Great Wave of 1947): An article by Ted Bloecher.
• Insert: Introduzione all'INTCAT (Introduction to INTCAT): A study of landing cases in ufology.

Detailed Content Analysis

"Osservatorio" - Aerial Ships and English Flaps:

The "Osservatorio" section begins with a continuation of a report on aerial ships from 1897, providing photographic evidence from the Dallas Morning News. It details three cases from Texas (Greenville, Stephenville, and Waxahachie) involving encounters with occupants of these craft. The article highlights the detailed descriptions of the craft, including their size, propulsion systems (electric motors, metallic wheels), and the claims of their inventors.

Following this, the "Osservatorio" discusses the "Pembroke triangle" in Wales, a region that experienced numerous low-altitude UFO sightings and landings in the three months following an initial sighting in Broad Haven. The report details encounters with humanoid figures, described as tall, with silver suits, large eyes, and black faces, and notes cases of temporal distortion and unusual physical effects on witnesses.

The "English flap" section focuses on a wave of sightings that moved from the Midlands to the southeast of England, eventually affecting South Wales. It presents several landing cases with humanoids, including an incident in Fenoehouses, Durham, where witnesses described an ovaloid object with a transparent compartment and an orange dome, and experienced a temporal distortion field. Another case from Bignall End, Staffordshire, describes a large oval object with two figures resembling "little soldiers" on its surface.

"Il caso di Winchester" (The Winchester Case):

This article details what is likely the first landing with humanoids in Southern England, occurring on November 14, 1976, in Winchester. The witnesses, Joyce Bowles and Ted Pratt, reported their car being affected by an orange glow, followed by an encounter with a cigar-shaped object and a tall, blond-haired humanoid wearing a silver suit. The entity interacted with the car's controls, causing the engine to restart. The case is notable as Joyce Bowles is described as a "psychic healer" and "medium," suggesting a potential link between paranormal abilities and UFO experiences.

A "second encounter" is also reported for the same witnesses on December 30, 1976, where they experienced a loss of consciousness and found themselves in an ellipsoidal room with three men, one of whom was the same humanoid from the previous encounter.

"1972: 'FLAP' IN SUDAFRICA" (1972: 'FLAP' IN SOUTH AFRICA):

This extensive section details a significant UFO wave in the Southern Hemisphere during the summer of 1972, with a particular focus on South Africa. The article notes that the "catalyst" for this flap was the widely publicized case of Fort Beaufort, where police reportedly fired on a landed UFO. The report includes a table of 82 sightings from South Africa, with detailed descriptions of 15 cases classified as "Type 1" (landings or low-altitude hovering).

The Fort Beaufort case on June 26, 1972, is described in detail: a worker and later the farm owner observed a "fireball" object hovering over trees. Police arrived and fired upon the object, which then changed color and moved away. The article notes the presence of landing traces, described as three groups of three impressions.

Catalog of Landings (INTCAT):

The issue includes an introduction to the INTCAT, an expanded and corrected version of "A Century of Landings" by Dr. Vallée. This catalog aims to document UFOs that have landed or hovered at low altitudes (defined as within 30 meters of the ground). The article explains the classification system used, which is based on Dr. Vallée's "Type 1 reports" and Professor Hynek's "close encounters."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO and Fortean phenomena, presenting a mix of historical cases, recent sightings, and research. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, aiming to inform and culturally enrich its readership. The publication emphasizes factual reporting, citing sources and providing detailed case analyses. There is a clear interest in international phenomena, with reports from South Africa, England, and Wales, alongside historical accounts. The inclusion of the INTCAT and discussions on classification methods indicate a commitment to rigorous ufological study. The magazine also touches upon related phenomena like "Yowie" and other unexplained events, reflecting its "Fortean" aspect.

This issue of "Ufologia," published by Clypeus-Ricerche, is titled "Umorismo Ufologico" (Ufological Humor) and appears to be from 1972. It combines satirical commentary and cartoons related to UFO phenomena with a serious academic exploration of UFO landing cases and their historical research.

Ufological Humor Section

The cover and several internal pages feature humorous illustrations and commentary on UFO sightings, particularly focusing on the "Fort Beaufort" case. These cartoons satirize police investigations, public reactions, and the general absurdity that can surround UFO reports. One cartoon depicts a police officer questioning a witness about a UFO, humorously suggesting the witness should have asked for a passport. Another shows a police chief convinced that a witness could help with their investigations. A third cartoon illustrates a conversation about a "tribal pastoral but warlike" population, implying difficulty in communication.

The "Osservatorio" section details a specific encounter with "three men" who claimed not to be invaders but were perceived as having "fields." The interaction, involving the Bowles family, is described with elements of confusion and unusual physical descriptions of the beings. The account includes details about their silver suits, pointed boots, and a bottle-shaped column with zodiacal symbols.

The "terzo atto & commento" section continues the narrative of the Bowles encounter, describing a third encounter where a "white sun" appeared, and a man approached, speaking in an uncertain English. This section also includes commentary from Robert J.M. Rickard, who notes the ongoing nature of investigations into these events and expresses a degree of skepticism regarding the Bowles' declarations, suggesting potential embellishments and the onset of "contactee syndrome."

Introduction to INTCAT: The Study of Landings in Ufology

The main body of the magazine delves into the academic study of UFO landings, tracing the history of research and the challenges faced by early investigators. The article highlights how "landings" were initially overlooked or dismissed by official investigations like the Blue Book Project, with Captain Ruppelt himself noting the Air Force's reluctance to investigate such reports.

It discusses the "dark age" of ufology between 1958 and 1963, a period that allowed for reevaluation and the maturation of ideas, particularly concerning the significance of UFOs on the ground.

The article details the "wave" of sightings in the autumn of 1954, which brought renewed attention to landing cases. It references the work of researchers like Aimé Michel and the contributions of organizations like APRO and CRIFO.

A key focus is the development of classification systems for UFO sightings. The article explains Jacques Vallée's proposed system of "types," with "Type 1" encompassing observations of unusual objects on or near the ground. This category was further subdivided into sub-categories based on the object's proximity to the ground, the presence of creatures, or apparent interest in terrestrial vehicles.

The text emphasizes the growing importance of systematic cataloging of UFO reports. It mentions the compilation of extensive catalogs, such as the "Century of UFO Landings" (1868-1968) and the "INTCAT" (International Catalogue of Type-1 Reports). The article traces the evolution of these catalogs, from initial efforts by Vallée and others to more comprehensive projects involving international collaboration.

• Specific cataloging efforts mentioned include:
• Vallée's "Century of UFO Landings": A catalog of 923 Type-1 reports from 1868-1968, published in his book "Passport to Magonia."
• Spanish Catalog: A catalog of 100 Type-1 cases from the Iberian Peninsula, published in 1971.
• Data Net Report Catalog: A statistical synthesis of 400 US Type-1 reports published in 1971.
• Argentinian Catalog: An initiative by Oscar Uriondo, with parts published in the FSR Case Histories.
• Danish Catalog: Curated by Willy Wegner, published in 1975.
• INTCAT (International Catalogue of Type-1 Reports): Initially compiled by Peter Rogerson in the UK, it grew to include thousands of reports. A Belgian version, started in 1975, expanded the scope to include cases from 1940 onwards. The article notes that by the time of publication, INTCAT comprised approximately 4000 reports, with an estimated 10,000 worldwide.

The article also touches upon research into electromagnetic effects associated with UFOs and the investigation of physical traces left by landings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue presents a dual approach to ufology: one that acknowledges the social and cultural impact of UFO phenomena, including humor and satire, and another that engages in rigorous, systematic research into specific types of cases, particularly landings. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, acknowledging the fascination with UFOs while emphasizing the need for careful data collection, analysis, and classification. There is a clear effort to move ufology towards a more scientific methodology, as evidenced by the detailed discussion of cataloging efforts and research projects. The inclusion of humorous elements suggests an understanding that the topic also holds a significant place in popular culture and folklore.

Notable Incidents and Cases

The issue details numerous UFO sightings and landing reports from various locations, primarily in South Africa and surrounding regions, during July and August 1972. These include:

• Fort Beaufort (July 2-3, 1972): Multiple sightings of a triangular object, changing colors, and a satellite-like object.
• Adelaide (July 4, 1972): Discovery of scorched grass, attributed to a UFO landing.
• King William's Town (July 5, 1972): An object described as a "sailor's hat" detaching from a fire.
• Vryburg (July 5, 1972): A large "flying sphere" hovering over a road.
• Fort Beaufort (July 8, 1972): Explosions and damage to a reservoir, linked to UFO activity.
• Pinelands (July 21, 1972): A large, brilliant red object observed.
• Ashburton (July 22, 1972): A blinding white light on a bridge, followed by a high-speed vertical takeoff.
• Durban (July 30, 1972): A circular clearing with flattened sugarcane and "gnawed" stalks.
• Roosboom & Mayville (August 16-19, 1972): Reports of a "flying monster" or "specter" with unusual physical characteristics.
• Port Alfred (August 20, 1972): A "large silver bubble" UFO observed.
• Fort Beaufort (August 22, 1972): An object described as a "barrel" with flashing lights.
• Schmidtsdrift (August 27, 1972): A UFO following a car, described as a "double row of lights" and a "dark object with an orange spotlight."
• Rosmead (November 12, 1972): Red lights observed, followed by a "strange incandescent light" and damage to a tarred surface near a school.

Future Content

The issue previews upcoming articles, including "Recent Case Studies: the third part of US and Canadian Type-1 cases from the second half of 1975," "Medium-Recent Case Studies: the great British wave of autumn 1967," and "Clypeus-Ricerche: Is the extraterrestrial hypothesis still the best one?"

Key Persons and Organizations

The magazine extensively references researchers like Jacques Vallée, Captain Ruppelt, Aimé Michel, and others involved in UFO research and cataloging. It also mentions various organizations dedicated to UFO studies, such as the Blue Book Project, APRO, CRIFO, MUFON, and the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS).

Object Characteristics

Descriptions of UFOs in the reported incidents include shapes like triangular, disc-shaped, barrel-shaped, spherical, hemispherical, and house-sized. Colors varied widely, including yellow, blue, white, red, orange, green, silver, and gold. Behaviors ranged from hovering and changing color to rapid acceleration, stopping, and dividing into multiple lights. Some reports mention electromagnetic effects and physical trace evidence like scorched grass and damaged structures.

This issue of the magazine, titled "LA GRANDE ONDATA DEL 1947" (The Great Wave of 1947) and authored by Ted Bloecher, delves into the significant UFO sightings that occurred in 1947, bringing the phenomenon to widespread public attention. The issue also includes reports on other recent UFO-related incidents and a table of South African flap sightings.

The Great UFO Wave of 1947

The article begins by noting that exactly thirty years prior to its publication, the issue of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) was dramatically brought to public attention. Within a mere two weeks in the summer of 1947, the enigmatic UFO phenomenon was thrust before the American public with a considerable amount of misinformation and sensational headlines. The author posits that the official 'birth' of this 'greatest enigma of the twentieth century' was largely a journalistic phenomenon, with scientists and military figures playing a secondary role.

The general facts are well-known: in the summer of 1947, North America experienced a bizarre and extraordinary situation. Starting in late June, people from all walks of life reported seeing luminous, fast-moving objects maneuvering in the skies. These objects were mostly described as circular or disc-shaped. For about a week, the number of sightings gradually increased, culminating on July 4th (Independence Day) with a sharp spike in reports. For five days, the entire United States, along with parts of Canada and Mexico, was inundated with sightings of strangely evasive aerial objects. The peak of the wave occurred on July 7th, with over 160 sightings, after which the number of reports gradually declined.

While speculation and interest continued for some time, 'flying saucers' became part of common language. The author emphasizes that the 1947 wave is particularly fascinating due to its unique position at the beginning of the 'modern' UFO period. In June 1947, there were no established 'attitudes' or 'tendencies' regarding UFOs; no preconceptions, no press policy, and no prior examples to compare with. While some recalled the 1946 'ghost rockets' or 'foo-fighters' from WWII, for most observers, the experience was unprecedented and deeply unsettling.

The article highlights Kenneth Arnold's sighting on June 24, 1947, as the event that marked the beginning of the 'modern' UFO phase. Arnold, a pilot, reported seeing objects flying at high speed near Mount Rainier in Washington State. His report, taken seriously and transmitted by news agencies, appeared on the front pages of newspapers across the Union. This led to numerous other reports from people who had seen similar objects, many of them from the northwestern region of the country.

The author argues that Arnold's character and convictions were crucial in getting the first sighting report published. Without him, it's difficult to imagine that the sightings would have remained hidden for long after June 25th. The article notes that in 1947, there were no precedents to create fear of ridicule for reporting sightings. The witnesses' fear was primarily of the unknown and the unexpected. The appearance of a new phenomenon was not only frightening but also contrary to common sense.

When someone encounters something entirely new, they tend to report it rationally. However, the more bizarre the experience, the less rational the account becomes. 'Flying saucers' were described as the most bizarre experience imaginable, leading to a proliferation of explanations and interpretations.

Initial explanations for Arnold's sighting included Captain Al Smith's theory that the 'disks' were reflections from the cockpit panel, and meteorologist E. Fisher's suggestion that Arnold was blinded by sunlight on snow. Astronomer J.H. Pruett supported this, adding the concept of 'visual persistence'. However, these explanations were not entirely satisfactory.

Scientific writer Howard Blakeslee suggested that reflections of sunlight on aircraft could create the impression of high speed. Lieutenant Colonel Harold Turner proposed that 'jets' had circular exhaust, appearing as disks when heated, but later revised his idea to 'meteorites'. The author points out that Turner seemed unable to distinguish between 'meteorites' and 'meteors'.

More bizarre explanations included an idea from a bottle cap factory worker, suggesting that aluminum disks from bottle caps, released by heat, could rise through chimneys and be carried by winds. Colonel Alfred Kilberer of the Air Force Information Service initially stated that reports might be true but doubted them, later suggesting it was a subject for psychologists.

By June 30th, there were approximately 130 sightings reported across 30 states, with about 220 witnesses. Most objects were described as 'disks' or 'circular'. The majority of sightings occurred during daylight hours. Witnesses included pilots, scientists, police officers, journalists, engineers, and military personnel. Some sightings were from aircraft, cars, and even homes. The article notes that scientific investigation was warranted but would not be undertaken for almost twenty years.

July saw a significant increase in sightings, with 24 reports on July 1st, nearly double the previous day. The number continued to rise, reaching 33 on July 3rd. Official statements from Wright Field, Ohio, where UFO reports were being examined, began to emerge. Major Paul Gaynor revealed that a preliminary investigation project had been abandoned due to lack of concrete evidence. A spokesperson suggested that observers might have imagined things or that meteorological explanations were possible, such as 'flattened plates of ice reflecting in clouds'.

In contrast, a report from the Air Force Information Service indicated that General Carl Spaatz had requested officers to examine the reports and determine what the 'disks' were. However, public relations stated that nothing had been discovered to confirm the existence of disks, and they were not thought to be missiles, suggesting a new phenomenon or an invention.

These contradictory official statements set the tone for the U.S. Air Force's approach to UFOs for the next thirty years, prioritizing public relations over scientific investigation.

Within 24 hours of these statements, the 'flap' intensified. Reports flooded in from hundreds of citizens, leading to what the article describes as one of the most massive 'waves' of sightings.

The 'July 4th deluge' brought about ninety sightings in twenty-four states, with over 400 witnesses. The impact was extraordinary, with all major newspapers dedicating their front pages to UFOs the next day. July 5th saw another eighty sightings, with two-thirds occurring during daylight. The journalistic accounts from these two days were factual and detailed, largely free of irony. The suddenness and scale of the phenomenon, the vivid descriptions, and the credibility of many witnesses led to a responsible and objective press attitude. However, this changed after July 6th.

The article attributes the decline in journalistic seriousness to the absurd number of explanations and invectives against witnesses, which confused the situation and discredited the sightings. Furthermore, on July 7th, pranksters and mentally unstable individuals emerged, contributing to the ridicule surrounding the topic.

The press is held responsible for abandoning facts in favor of sensationalism and irresponsible rumors. Following the 'deluge', 'experts' began offering explanations, often with unwarranted authority. These 'experts' claimed to know what witnesses had seen, even though they hadn't witnessed anything themselves.

Among the absurd explanations, a self-proclaimed 'nuclear physicist' proposed that UFOs were the result of 'atomic energy transmutations' conducted at various air bases. He described them as machines capable of high speeds, remotely controlled, and partially rocket-propelled. Dr. Urey of Chicago refuted this, stating that metals, not energy, could be transmuted. Colonel Clark of the Atomic Energy Project denied any connection between atomic energy experiments and 'flying saucers'.

A meteorologist in Detroit suggested UFOs came from Mars as simple 'signals', questioning why Mars wouldn't try to contact Earth if Earth was trying to communicate with Mars, but failing to explain how these signals could become physical objects.

On July 6th, a Portland newspaper cited several 'professional' theories. Dr. Frederick Courts, a psychology assistant, suggested a 'mass psychology' explanation for the sudden increase in 'flying saucer' reports, implying that people see what they expect to see, and that the phenomenon might be a result of public attention to atomic warfare and guided missile stories.

In contrast, Dr. Knowlton disagreed, stating that the persistence of these reports could not be explained by 'hysteria' alone. He proposed that the objects were the result of secret experiments with guided missiles, either by the US or foreign powers.

Lieutenant Colonel Ellison of the Portland Meteorological Office noted that many weather balloons were launched daily, and at high altitudes, these could reflect sunlight like metal. However, he stated that balloons could not reach the speeds attributed to 'flying saucers'. Dr. Pruett cautiously admitted he didn't know what these objects could be, but was certain they were not meteorites.

Several other astronomers offered their opinions, but significantly, none showed scientific curiosity. A survey of astronomers at the Franklin Institute revealed that most leaned towards 'pure hysteria', dismissing meteors. Gerald Kuiper and Oliver Lee suggested the objects were 'artificial' and 'probably radio-controlled', implying secret government projects.

Government scientists and military officials generally responded with 'no comment' unless they had personally seen an object or had one to examine. Newburn Smith of the National Bureau of Standards compared 'disks' to the Loch Ness Monster, suggesting that when a story spreads, many people convince themselves they have seen it.

Despite these attempts to downplay the phenomenon, the public remained unsettled. In Circleville, Ohio, a strange object found in a field, identified as part of a weather balloon, caused a near-panic.

The confusion, however, had taken root, and objectivity had waned. The situation was escalating, further fueled by an increase in sightings. On Sunday, July 6th, as newspapers featured previous days' reports, the number of sightings doubled to 160, with over 500 witnesses in 37 states. On July 7th, another 160 cases were reported across the US, with a similar geographical distribution.

At this point, Air National Guard aircraft were dispatched to search for the mysterious 'disks'. Nothing was found, which reinforced the idea that no 'disks' existed. For every new report, there was a new denial.

From this point on, newspapers largely stopped covering UFOs responsibly, and skepticism and ridicule dominated the news. Some published reports were shamefully altered with added details to embellish stories and make them more entertaining. An example cited is a report where a witness described seeing a flying disk with an American flag, while the original report mentioned no flags. Another witness described a UFO as a 'hen with her chicks', leading to humorous commentary.

The ironic and ridiculing attitude towards UFOs has characterized the press ever since. Pranksters and mentally unstable individuals joined journalists who invented stories of Martian spaceships. One individual claimed to have projected himself 'astraly' to understand the disks, and was hosted on spaceships that used the dark side of the Moon as a base to unload 'Metaboblous' to neutralize nuclear radiation.

Pilots and scientists continued to offer explanations. Meteorologist William Werner of New Jersey suggested that to see the 'disks', one should rub their eyes and stare at the sky, forgetting that some sightings occurred at night. The Air Force denied having any 'idea' of what the disks were or any intention to study them, suggesting they were experimental Navy aircraft. The Navy suggested they were secret Army weapons. The Army, however, clarified that they were not foreign bacteriological weapons, secret Army weapons, or interplanetary spaceships.

On July 8th, the number of sightings dropped to 90, and the following day, only about twenty reports were published. While newspapers reported these few genuine sightings, the number of incredible stories grew. These were either hoaxes or exaggerated errors. One such story originated in Corona, New Mexico, where a farmer named Brazell found a 'disk'. After hiding it in a barn, he informed the sheriff of Roswell, who in turn notified Major Jesse Marcel of the Air Force. The 'disk' was taken to the Roswell base for examination.

Due to a series of gross errors by the Public Relations Office and the media's desire for a crashed UFO story, the narrative escalated with headlines like 'Flying saucer crashed'. AP reported on July 8th that the 509th Bomb Group of the 8th Air Force at Roswell Airfield had obtained one of the disks through cooperation with a local rancher and the county sheriff.

This statement caused a sensation, and as journalists swarmed the air base, the wreckage was moved to the headquarters of the 8th Air Force in Fort Worth, Texas. Brigadier General Roger Ramey attempted to clarify the situation, explaining that no one had ever seen the disk in flight, that it was fragile, made of tin, and ultimately revealed to be the remains of a 'high-altitude weather balloon'.

This incident caused a stir in Washington, and Air Force officials reprimanded the Roswell base spokespersons for fueling the confusion. However, the damage was done, and the next day, all newspapers reported: 'Another disk shot down'.

However, considerable space was also given to other pranksters. One of the first to confess was pilot Vernon Baird of Los Angeles, who claimed on July 6th to have encountered a squadron of 'yo-yo flyers' while flying over Bozeman, Montana. According to his account, one of the 'yo-yos' was caught in his engine's suction and 'broke into two sections, falling to the ground in a slow spiral'. Baird himself admitted to inventing the story after observing his aircraft's suction.

Others went further, 'building' disks and launching them. A circular saw blade landed in a priest's garden in Grafton, Wisconsin. In St. Louis, Illinois, some clever individuals launched several pressed paper plates from a rooftop. More complicated contraptions caused sightings in Shreveport, Louisiana, Black River Falls, Wisconsin, and Clearwater, Florida. One of these 'disks', 80 centimeters wide, landed in a Hollywood garden on the night of July 9th, receiving considerable publicity when its discoverer offered a $1,000 reward for identification. Although the culprit was never found, four teenagers from Twin Falls, Idaho, confessed to building a similar object the day after, when Information Service officials confiscated the disk.

One of these pranks was discovered in 1967 by Professor James McDonald, who investigated several reports from the wave. The July 7th sighting by pilot Fred Cloud over Raleigh, North Carolina, where he reportedly saw a disk emerge from clouds, was reported to the press by a friend of Cloud's who wanted to play a prank on him (Cloud=nuvola, meaning cloud). After reading the account of his 'sighting' in the newspapers the next day, Cloud unsuccessfully attempted to get a retraction published.

July 10th brought only a dozen more reports, almost all published by local newspapers. Gradually, the average daily number of sightings decreased to just one report per day in the second half of the month. In total, over 700 reports were received in July alone. By August, the great wave of 1947 was history.

Recent Cases

The issue also includes a section on recent cases, detailing several sightings from 1972:

• November 17-20, 1972 - Middelburg (Cape): Two postal employees on a family outing observed a bright circular object over a mountain. The object disappeared and reappeared, hovering about three meters above the ground with 'legs', illuminating the area. Two 'luminous red men' were seen. The object then disappeared into the fog and reappeared in the sky. Other residents also witnessed the landing, causing panic.
• November 19, 1972 - Graaf Reinett (Cape): A father and son observed two gray 'Volkswagen flyers' (round on top, flat on the bottom) flying about a mile away, moving along telephone wires at airplane speed. After 'jumping' over the wires, the UFOs moved east.
• November 26, 1972 - Middelburg (Cape): Around 8:15 PM, a UFO zigzagged over the city. Two hours later, four people observed a large object descend, hover for a few minutes, and apparently land in a school field about 200 meters away. The witnesses attempted to pursue the object in their car, but it moved away quickly.

Attention!

An announcement regarding a special publication is made, offering a publication containing reproductions of all newspaper clippings related to the UFO phenomenon from Italian newspapers in 1977 to those who send more than 30 clippings by the end of January 1978. The magazine's clipping service had already collected over 200 UFO-related clippings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the analysis of the 1947 UFO wave, emphasizing its significance as the origin of modern UFOlogy. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation of UFO phenomena, while also acknowledging and cataloging hoaxes and misidentifications. The magazine aims to provide a comprehensive record of sightings and related events, encouraging reader participation through the submission of newspaper clippings.

CLYPEUS, Issue 111, is a publication from the Gruppo Clypeus, based in Italy. The issue's primary focus is on announcements and calls for international collaboration within the ufology and mystery animal research communities.

Announcements from Abroad

Janet Bord's Research on Mystery Animals

The issue begins with an announcement from Janet Bord, an author of books on the unusual, including 'Mysterious Britain'. She is conducting research into the phenomenon of 'mystery animals', which encompasses a wide range of subjects including water monsters, Bigfoot, Sasquatch, Yeti, large black dogs, unrecognized species appearing in unusual locations, and bird-like creatures like the Mothman. Bord is seeking to correspond with individuals outside of Britain who possess information on these phenomena in their respective countries. Her contact address is Mrs Janet Bord, 34a Barnsdale Road, London W9-3LL, England.

Texas UFO Study Group

Tommy Blann, director of the Texas UFO Study Group, has provided his address for members of the Clypeus Group to contact him for the exchange of information and news. His address is Tommy R. Blann, P.O. Box 315, McGregor, TX 76657, U.S.A.

Greek Section of Clypeus Group

The Greek Section of the Clypeus Group has expanded its scope, becoming a national center in Greece. This initiative was suggested by the director, Edoardo Russo. The P.E.E.A.F. (Panhellenic Union of Researchers of Unknown Phenomena) invites friends of Clypeus to collaborate and exchange material. If successful, the first issue of their English-language quarterly, 'Erevna' (Research), is expected to be published next year. The announcement expresses hope that the Greek ufology scene will soon be on par with other European nations, and provides the contact address for P.E.E.A.F. as Leoforos Alexandras 77, Athinai, Greece.

International Newsletter from Clypeus Group

Italian friends wishing to have announcements published abroad can make requests to the editorial staff. Starting in October or November, the Ufological Section of the Clypeus Group will publish a periodic newsletter in English. This newsletter will contain Italian material and will be sent to their international friends, correspondents, and organizations with whom they exchange material. The Clypeus Group boasts over 500 international contacts, encouraging readers to take advantage of this opportunity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes international cooperation and information exchange within the ufology and paranormal research communities. The editorial stance appears to be one of fostering global connections, promoting the dissemination of research, and supporting the growth of ufological organizations worldwide. The focus on 'mystery animals' and the expansion of Greek and Italian ufological outreach highlight a broad interest in unexplained phenomena beyond traditional UFO sightings.