Earthlink - No 04 - Vol 3 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: EARTHLINK
Issue: WINTER 1978/9
Volume: 3
Publisher: Essex UFO Study Group
Country: England
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Earthlink, published by the Essex UFO Study Group, presents a collection of articles and reports on the UFO phenomenon. The cover features a stylized image of a flying saucer against a starry sky, with the magazine title prominently displayed.

Editorial: UFOs..... a puzzle today, an answer tomorrow?

The editorial reflects on the period leading up to late 1978, noting that prior to the release of the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," the UFO scene had been relatively quiet. The article cites a newsletter from the Tasmanian UFO Investigation Centre, which observed that the film had little impact on UFO activity in Tasmania and that public response was minimal. The editorial suggests that the intelligences behind UFOs might have intentionally kept a low profile to avoid easy debunking if a surge of sightings had occurred due to the film. However, UFO sightings reportedly increased significantly in the latter part of 1978, culminating in what appeared to be a worldwide UFO display on New Year's Eve. The editorial posits that UFO sightings are on the increase and that eventually, when everyone acknowledges their existence, there may be an attempt at open contact to disclose their reasons for being here.

UFOLOGY AND SCIENCE by John B. Longhorn

This article begins by referencing a 1947 US government statement about the observation of alien craft, highlighting their advanced technology and extraterrestrial origin. It notes that this announcement was met with disbelief but was followed by similar reports in other countries, leading to investigations by Air Force or Ministry of Defence. Over the subsequent 31 years, worldwide UFO data research societies emerged, facilitating an international exchange of reports. Organized skywatching and investigations have led to the classification of UFO incidents. The author criticizes the disparaging attitude of Defence Ministries and armed services, who attributed sightings to natural causes rather than genuine phenomena, and regrets the secret holding of records. The article points out that a percentage of scientists admit to an open mind regarding UFOs, often as a protective measure. It argues that ufology, though not a registered science, has contributed to astronomy, astrophysics, and archaeology, and that a Chair of Ufology is overdue. Regarding the origin of UFOs, the author suggests they are extraterrestrial, possibly originating from space, and may operate in multiple dimensions. The concept of dimensions is explained through Einstein's Time-Space Relativity, with references to anomalies in space similar to faults in fabric, and the existence of six centers.

The article further discusses the vastness of the universe, with Earth being a small part of the Milky Way galaxy, which contains billions of stars and potentially life-bearing planets. It emphasizes the immense distances involved in space travel. The author then focuses on Earth itself, describing its diameter, gravity, temperature, and the significant portion covered by oceans, which contain vast underwater features. The article concludes by stating that ufology must weigh the importance of UFO phenomena to human civilization against the vastness of the universe.

UEO's - Unidentified Everyday Objects by David L. Rees

This section introduces the concept of UEOs (Unidentified Everyday Objects), which the author defines as aircraft and helicopters that fly through the sky in mysterious ways. The article recounts a spate of "Mystery Helicopter" sightings in Cheshire, Yorkshire, and Derbyshire in 1973, where a helicopter flew at low levels, hedge-hopping, and illuminating the area with a bright light. The police were unable to identify the source of these flights. The author then describes a specific incident on October 28, 1973, where John Parkinson in Crosby, Lancashire, witnessed a silent, floating, silver rocket-shaped object with yellow port holes. A light aircraft appeared and seemed to follow the UFO. The aircraft later circled the area, cut its engines, glided, and then took off again. The author shares his own belief that UFOs exist, and that light aircraft can be used for reconnaissance. He quotes another writer who suggests that if these mystery aircraft are not terrestrial, authorities might be genuinely baffled, or that UFOs could mimic terrestrial aircraft. The article also mentions a large 'H' shaped craft hovering over tower blocks in Leyton.

Additional Notes on UEOs

This section provides further context on UFO sightings and related phenomena. It mentions Betty Hill, an abductee, and her interest in UFOs, including sightings of "Mystery Helicopter" types. It also describes an incident in N.W. Kent, England, where a helicopter-shaped object with two 'humans' descended close to a witness.

MY ADVICE ON UFO TRAUMAS by Alan J. Miles

Alan J. Miles offers advice to individuals who have experienced "close encounters" and suffer from trauma. He assures that the effects are not harmful and can lead to enhanced intuition, comprehension of natural science, and insight into mankind's true self. He suggests that contactees may develop spiritual writings or visual arts and gain a deeper psychological insight. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding the "I AM" and Universal Law, advising prayer and seeking quiet communion with God. It describes symptoms of UFO trauma, including breathlessness, panic, acute anxiety, and loss of consciousness of self, leading to an introverted state where the afflicted questions their identity. The author views this state as an opportunity to realize one's true self and shed materialistic desires.

INSTRUCTION FOR CONTACTEES by Alan J. Miles

Alan J. Miles provides instructions for contactees, emphasizing the need to relax, breathe gently, and focus inward. He suggests that materialism can hinder spiritual progress and encourages fighting such thoughts. Contactees are advised to introspectively question their inner self and gradually extend their meditation practice. The article posits that the extra-terrestrials communicate through inner emotion rather than complex jargon. It touches upon the concept of sub-atomic energies as the matrix of all existence, which UFOs use to materialize and dematerialize. The author also discusses the potential interest of UFOs in areas like marshland near railway yards, suggesting their purpose might be related to landings or calling contactees.

FURTHER ADVICE FOR CONTACTEES by Terry Thomas

Terry Thomas advises individuals approached by space visitors to face them with the sign of the Cross, strong energy, and without fear, questioning their interests as a defense against "evil visitors." He states that these "parent planet visitors" welcome questions and do not take offense. The article includes a comment from the EUFOSG, acknowledging that some UFO researchers believe in visits from "evil aliens" (MIB - Men in Black) and that depicting all visitors as friendly could lead to deception. Therefore, Terry Thomas's advice is provided for consideration, especially if fear is experienced by a contactee or UFO witness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Earthlink consistently explores the UFO phenomenon from various angles, including scientific inquiry, personal experiences, and potential spiritual implications. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, acknowledging the increase in UFO sightings and the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence. There is a recurring theme of caution regarding potential deception by alien visitors, as highlighted in the advice for contactees. The publication encourages reader interaction and the sharing of experiences, positioning itself as a platform for UFO research and discussion.

This issue of EUFOSG (The East-West UFO Study Group) presents a detailed compilation of UFO sightings reported throughout 1978, alongside articles and reports on related topics. The magazine's primary focus is the "EUFOSG SIGHTINGS FOR 1978" section, which meticulously lists numerous encounters, providing dates, times, locations, durations, object descriptions, and investigator details. Complementing this are reports on public meetings, lectures, and discussions concerning UFO phenomena, psychic connections, and the broader implications of potential alien visitation.

EUFOSG Sightings for 1978

The core of the issue is the extensive log of sightings. Key incidents include:

• May 21, 1978: A sighting over the North Atlantic by a company director who described a rectangular iceberg with three or four huge, vivid aqua-green triangles on top, observed from a DC-10 at 30,000 feet. The object's size was estimated to be many times that of the largest ships afloat.
• September 24, 1978: Near Clacton, Essex, the Smith-Gillard family witnessed two bright white lights approach, followed by an object emitting a faint hum. The object circled the area, changed its lights to red pulsating ones, and then accelerated away at high speed.
• October 5, 1978: In Ilford, Essex, children reported seeing a peculiar object accompanied by about 12 colored globes, which circled their house before moving off. Another cigar-shaped object with numerous colored lights then appeared.
• November 13, 1978: In London, a young girl reported seeing four objects: two large saucer-shaped, one small spherical, and one dart-shaped, all displaying colored marker lights and producing a high-pitched whining noise.
• December 30, 1978: In Chadwell Heath, Essex, a couple observed three successive beams of white light descending from the sky, each brighter and further away than the last, before disappearing.

Other reported sightings include objects near Paris, France; various locations in Essex and London; and the North Atlantic. The "Object Type" column often categorizes sightings as "Nocturnal light," "Daylight Disc," or "Close Encounter 1st Kind," with abbreviations like NL, DD, and CE1.

Strange Objects Sighted in the North Atlantic

This section details the May 21, 1978, sighting of the unusual iceberg and triangles. The witness, Mr. Murray, a company director, described the objects' vivid aqua-green color against the dark sea and estimated the iceberg's size. He questioned whether it was a NATO exercise, but found it unlikely given the peculiar shapes and scale. The report poses questions about whether the DC-10's pilot reported it or if a satellite picked it up, concluding these answers are likely unknown.

UFO Seen Near Clacton, Essex

This report from September 24, 1978, provides a more detailed account of the Smith-Gillard family's experience. They observed bright white lights that approached and then an object with a faint hum. The object's shape was visible against the night sky. It performed a large circle before returning, at which point its white lights changed to rectangular red pulsating lights. The object then accelerated away. The witness, Geoffrey Smith-Gillard, flashed his torch at the object, which surprisingly responded by changing its lights. The report notes that the witnesses were ex-Observer Corps and ex-Police, implying they were trained observers. The investigation contacted various authorities, including the Naval Auxiliary Service and the M.O.D., but no conventional explanation was found. Other witnesses in the area, including Mr. O'Connell and Mrs. Ringrow, reported similar sightings, with Mrs. Ringrow describing the object as round with a brilliant white light and red lights on each side.

A Plethora of UFO's!

This entry from October 5, 1978, describes an event in Ilford, Essex, where children saw a large object accompanied by numerous colored globes. The object circled the house and then moved off. Another cigar-shaped object with many colored lights then appeared and moved east. The entire event was accompanied by a humming/thundering noise and lasted for approximately 24 hours, with Mrs. Groves witnessing the latter parts.

Strange Objects in the Sky

This section covers a sighting on November 13, 1978, in London, N.10, by ten-year-old Sara Newman. She observed four objects: two large saucer-shaped, one small spherical, and one dart-shaped. These objects had colored marker lights and emitted a high-pitched whining noise. Sara noted that aircraft were also present due to the air-lane for Heathrow Airport, but these objects moved in a horizontal plane only and disappeared by fading out. Her mother confirmed the unusual nature of the event. The sighting was reported to a local newspaper and investigated by Mr. Steve Eaton.

Mystery Beams of Light

Reported on December 30, 1978, in Chadwell Heath, Essex, Mr. and Mrs. Dale witnessed three successive beams of white light descending from the sky. Each beam was brighter and further away than the previous one before disappearing. The beams were described as cylindrical, about 8ft. across, with clear-cut edges, descending at a steep angle. The report notes that Mr. Dale had previously seen two lights join up in the sky two years prior, questioning if there was a connection.

EUFOSG Public Meeting

This section covers a meeting held on February 17, 1979, at Barking Methodist Hall, featuring Miss Gay Muir, a Spiritualist and Medium. The meeting aimed to explore the psychic connotations of UFOs. Gay Muir shared her beliefs about spiritualism, different spheres of existence, and the concept of a "third eye" (psychic eye). She also discussed auras and spiritual healing. During the Q&A session, she described spirit relatives of audience members, with descriptions being verified. The meeting was well-attended despite cold weather, and proceeds were donated to The Essex Healers' Association.

Special Contact (UK) Local Meeting

This report details a meeting held on January 12, 1979, in Bexley, Kent, with Mr. Timothy Good as the guest speaker. Organized by CONTACT (UK), the event attracted approximately 250 people. Timothy Good, an independent researcher and violinist, shared his extensive research and encounters with famous contactees and UFO witnesses. He concluded that humanity is being watched and studied by alien civilizations from unknown places with advanced knowledge. The lecture, aimed at a general audience, covered the UFO phenomenon, including a slide show of UFOs and entities. Following the lecture, audience members shared their own experiences.

Miscellaneous

This section includes announcements and advertisements:

• BUFORA Lectures: Information on monthly lectures held at Kensington Central Library, London.
• UFO Conference 1979: Details of an upcoming conference in London on August 26-27, 1979, organized by BUFORA and CONTACT UK, featuring internationally known speakers.

UFO Competition

CUTTY SARK (U.K. SCOTSH WHISKY) LTD. is offering prizes for:

1. A device proved to have been activated to arrive from beyond our solar system (£1,000,000 prize).
2. A scientific paper contributing to UFO knowledge (£1,000 prize).
3. The best "CUTTY SARK U.F.O. LOG" of aerial phenomena researched from 19th-century sailing ships (£500 prize).
Entries are open from July 1, 1978, with a closing date of June 30, 1979, for competitions 2 and 3. Application forms and rules are available from the company.

UFO Investigator

An appeal for witnesses to UFO sightings in South London and North Kent to contact Mrs. M. Fry of CONTACT(UK).

UFO Books

Recommendations for books include "Gods of Aquarius" by Brad Steiger and "Prelude to Landing on Planet Earth" by Stuart Holroyd.

Letters

• Newsletter from Delta Research Group (I.G.A.P.): This letter from Niels Sarnov in Denmark describes a project to build a UFO tracking station to investigate the effects of passing UFOs on Earth's magnetic and gravity fields, radiation, and polarized light. The project involves setting up light-meters, ultrasonic scanners, and automatic film cameras.
• Letter from Sheila B---: This letter from Sheila B--- in Newcastle-on-Tyne recounts two personal UFO experiences from 1973. The first involved a stationary light that moved symmetrically in the sky. The second, more dramatic experience, involved a voice in her head telling her to look in the garden, where she saw a huge ball of light low in the sky and a tiny light moving towards it. She experienced intense fear and panic.

Editorial Correspondence

Arthur Shuttlewood writes to Dan, praising "Earthlink" magazine and mentioning his own books, "The Flying Saucerers," "More UFOs over Warminster," and "UFO Magic in Motion."

Earl of Clancarty writes to Mrs. Saville, thanking her for her wishes regarding a debate on UFOs in the House of Lords.

Advertisements

• FORESIGHT: A bi-monthly magazine covering spiritual aspects, psychic phenomena, mysticism, and UFOs.
• SKYWATCH: A publication featuring UFO sightings, reader letters, and group news, with membership and subscription details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the reporting and investigation of UFO sightings, emphasizing eyewitness accounts and the challenges of conventional explanations. There is a strong undercurrent of interest in the potential psychic connections to UFO phenomena, as highlighted by the feature on Gay Muir and the discussion of UFOs having spiritual significance. The magazine also promotes UFO research organizations and events, encouraging public participation and the sharing of information. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, presenting evidence and diverse perspectives, including those from spiritual and psychic viewpoints, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous investigation and documentation.

This issue of "UFO Sightings and News From Around The World" (dated Wtr.78/9, with a cover date of January 19, 1979, for the "The Guardian" article) presents a collection of recent UFO reports and related phenomena from various international sources. The publication focuses on eyewitness accounts, official investigations, and media coverage of unexplained aerial phenomena.

Key Articles and Reports

Listings of Publications and Services:

• Several organizations are listed for those interested in spiritual and paranormal topics:
• Truth Therapy Centre Magazine: Offers articles on spiritual truth, psychic development, healing (including chromo-therapy), and UFOs. It includes a reader's letters section and is available for 62p per copy.
• Essex Healers' Association: Publishes a newsletter on spiritual healing.
• Viewpoint Aquarius: A newsletter covering UFO news, Theosophy, Yoga, meditation, and healing. Sample copies are 35p.
• Ragnarok: A new magazine focused on the occult.
• Magic Saucer: A children's UFO magazine aimed at fostering exchange of UFO news and ideas among young Ufologists.
• UFO Newsclipping Service: Provides monthly 20-page reports of UFO clippings from international press sources, including photographs, landing and occupant cases, and wire service items. Subscription information is available by writing to Lucius Farish in Arkansas, USA.

Book Review:

• 'Diary of an Alien' by Richard Spencer: This book explores whether Moses was an alien or had alien contact, and discusses the planet explosion and the ten plagues of Egypt. It is available from Borg Mercury Publishers for 50p plus postage.

Local UFO Sightings:

• The Southern UFO Sighting Review: A bi-monthly catalogue of UFO sightings in the Essex area, with drawings. Available by sending postage stamps.

UFO Sightings and News From Around The World

Heavenly Bodies in the Lords:

The Earl of Clancarty initiated a debate in the House of Lords concerning the "increasing number of sightings and landings of UFOs worldwide." He suggested that a "mass landing of UFOs in Britain" could cause panic due to unpreparedness. Despite historical sightings dating back to ancient Egypt, suspicion remains. The Earl noted that during WWII, pilots mistook UFOs for secret weapons. He acknowledged the existence of cranks but asserted that the majority of witnesses are sincere individuals, including police, operators, and pilots. He described powerful lights from UFOs that could burn, stop vehicles, and cause blackouts. However, he pointed out that Earth has not been invaded, suggesting that humans have been "hard" on the saucers. He proposed that governments should acknowledge UFOs and reverse any cover-up, recommending the House of Lords establish a study group. This report is from "The Guardian", January 19, 1979.

New Zealand UFOs - Night of the UFOs:

On a clear night, the crew of an Argosy freight plane crossing New Zealand's South Island observed a brilliant airborne object moving slowly. Simultaneously, a flight service operator and an RNZAF officer at Blenheim airport reported seeing five lights. Wellington's radar control center confirmed five objects on their screens, which moved off the coast and remained within a 16 km quadrant for about four hours. This was the beginning of a night of extensive UFO activity. Two Argosy crews and radar operators in major cities confirmed multiple sightings. One Argosy freighter was tracked and buzzed by a single UFO. The incident occurred on the early hours of Friday, December 21, 1978.

#### Detailed Account of the New Zealand Sightings:

Captain John Randle and First Officer Keith Heine of Argosy One reported seeing a "quite large" object with an intense white light, traveling slowly below them. It illuminated the land beneath it. Later, radar men Cordy and Herd in Wellington were alerted to the five lights in the Clarence River area. After checking with the Weather Office and RNZAF, they confirmed strong radar echoes. At 3 am, Wellington radar detected another large echo hovering 48 km south-east of the city, then moving at 120 knots to a point 80 km south-east.

Argosy Two, with Captain Vern Powell and First Officer Ian Pirie, was asked to check for radar echoes 20 km to starboard, then 40 km to port. Pirie spotted a bright white light with an intermittent reddish tinge. The object moved with them, maintaining its position relative to the aircraft, and appeared to be waiting. Powell, a pilot with 28 years of experience, stated it was unlike any star or planet he had seen. Wellington did not order a closer look due to cost implications. Cordy estimated the objects were "at least as big and as solid as the Argosy." Powell and Pirie observed the light for 10-12 minutes before Argosy Two altered course.

The object lagged behind Argosy Two and vanished. Christchurch radar later registered an object streaking across its flight path, described as a "bright, flashing white light" moving at over 17,000 km/h, which then turned sharp right and disappeared. Christchurch radar has a blind spot 40 km seaward from the city.

Argosy One, heading for Auckland, also spotted the five objects offshore. Captain Randle reported they were "white tinged with amber... passing 16km south of us...reflected on the water...definitely not distress flares." He estimated their size at 150 meters. The objects' lights were estimated at 2000 watts, four times that of aircraft landing lights. Randle stated, "I've been flying 28 years and I'm keeping an open mind about all this. I've never seen anything that couldn't be rationally explained. The best way I can describe what we saw is that there was nothing which can't be explained in terms of military technology. But I'm not saying what those things were."

Later, Randle's crew observed three large surface vessels moving down the South Island coast, which seemed unusual given the area's shoaling waters. Randle questioned the purpose of these vessels.

The report notes that the RNZAF did not scramble fighter jets or Orion sub-hunters, and the navy did not deploy ships. There has been no official word from the New Zealand government regarding an inquiry. This report is from "The Daily Telegraph" (Australia), January 3, 1979.

UFO Sightings by Newspaper Correspondent:

A correspondent witnessed a UFO over New Zealand's Clarence River, described as a round, glowing ball with a reddish center, much brighter than any star. The object moved erratically before becoming stationary. The lights were also filmed by a New Zealand TV crew. An Air Force Orion aircraft patrolling the area did not detect the object on its radar. However, the entire six-man police force in Invercargill, New Zealand's southernmost city, observed a similar bright object for over half an hour. The possibility of reflections from a Japanese squid fishing fleet was dismissed by air traffic control officials, and pilot Captain Bill Startup stated it was unlikely a squid boat would be fishing at that altitude.

A special UFO committee of Defence, Ministry specialists, and DSIR officers is to be formed by the New Zealand government to investigate the sightings. A vivid film of a UFO sighting has reportedly made instant believers. Extracts from a 3.5-hour film, shot by a New Zealand TV crew, were transmitted globally. The object in the film was described as "sort of triangular with rounded edges and a piccc missing from the apex, like a volcano."

UFOs Ignore Their Pleas for Real Close Encounter:

An attempt in Tokyo, Japan, to lure UFOs using red, white, and blue spotlights and sounds from the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" failed. No UFO responded during the 50-minute broadcast.

Burned by a UFO:

A boy named Eero Lammi in Oulu, Finland, reported seeing a mysterious ball of light land in a field. When he approached, a ray of light struck him, causing a searing pain and temporary unconsciousness. Burn marks on his chest were confirmed by a doctor. Sweden's military command is investigating the incident, admitting they are baffled.

Terror of the 10ft. Spacemen:

This report details the account of Fortunato Zanfretta, a security guard who claims to have had two face-to-face encounters with 10-foot-tall creatures with green skin, yellow triangular eyes, and red veins. During the first encounter, his car stopped mysteriously, and he was hit from behind by a creature. He later awoke to a blinding light and the roar of a UFO. Medical experts, after deep hypnosis, believe 90% of his account is true. In a second encounter, he was taken aboard a large, triangular UFO with portholes and a round base, where he was examined by 10 alien beings. Communication was reportedly through 'light signals and sounds' via a helmet. Zanfretta described the UFO as flat, triangular, and white, emitting intense light and heat. His boss, Gianfanco Tutti, believes Zanfretta's account, noting that the creatures reportedly told him they would take him away next time.

Encounters of a Southern, Latin Kind:

• Several reports from South America are presented:
• Argentina: Carlos Acevedo and Angel Moya reported a yellow and violet light that shut off their car's engine and headlights, lifted the vehicle, and set it down 150 km north, draining the gasoline tank.
• Chile: Businessman Alejandro Hernandez reported a huge saucer hovering over his car, with five figures taking his son and interviewing him in a metallic voice.
• Colombia: Bank manager Serrano Siva reported a flying object that buzzed his car, causing the engine and headlights to die and resulting in temporary paralysis for him and his passenger.

These stories were front-page news in Argentina, Chile, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, and Colombia. Reports of UFO sightings draw crowds, such as at Chilca, Peru, where a squadron of 30-40 flying saucers was reported. In San Luis Province, Argentina, six fishermen reported a saucer lighting up the predawn sky, from which a figure in a silver jumpsuit descended, waved, and returned, leaving huge footprints.

• Peru: A flying object hovered over a train station, causing stray dogs and cats to seek refuge.
• Argentina: An oval-shaped translucent object with a halo of light flew over the Andes mountains.
• Mexico: Yaqui Indians blame extraterrestrials for their woes. Sergio Lemos was told by a "UFO Commander Akilevan" that his mission was to prevent nuclear holocaust.

I'm Being Watched by Creatures From Outer Space:

Charles Hickson claims he is being watched by creatures from a UFO, the same ones he believes abducted him while fishing in Mississippi in 1973. He feels they know his whereabouts and activities. He is not worried, as they did not harm him during the abduction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence and diversity of UFO sightings across different countries and continents, the detailed descriptions of UFOs and their occupants, and the attempts by authorities to investigate these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting factual accounts and reports from credible sources, including pilots, police officers, and radar operators, while acknowledging the baffling nature of many incidents. There is an underlying implication that these events are not easily explained by conventional means and may involve unknown technologies or non-human intelligence.

This issue of UFO Forum, identified as Volume Wtr. 78/9 and published by Midnight/Globe in the USA, features a cover headline proclaiming 'PROOF OF CIA'S UFO 'COVER-UP''. The issue date is July 7, 1977. The magazine focuses on alleged government secrecy surrounding UFO phenomena and compiles reports of sightings from various locations.

The Pascagoula Incident

The lead story details the experience of Hickson, who lives in Gautier, MS, and is writing a book titled "The Pascagoula UFO." Hickson claims to have spent four years researching UFOs and is convinced the government possesses significant, withheld information. He describes an incident where he and Calvin Parker were fishing from a pier on the Pascagoula River at dusk when they heard a hissing sound. They observed a metallic spaceship hovering two feet off the ground with two blue, pulsating lights and a porthole. Two blue, robot-like creatures emerged, emitting a bright light. Hickson reported being lifted and examined, feeling pain and an inability to move. He saw Parker also taken. Upon return, Parker was in a trance. Hickson states the creatures were about five feet tall, with heads directly attached to their bodies, and made no sounds. He believes these beings were robots controlled from elsewhere. Air Force officials in Biloxi, MS, refused to comment on his experience. Hickson has undergone polygraph tests and hypnosis, which he claims support his account. He now believes these creatures were robots controlled from somewhere else, a departure from his previous Baptist upbringing.

CIA UFO Cover-Up Allegations

Another section, titled 'PROOF OF CIA'S UFO 'COVER-UP'', reports that UFO experts have long claimed a cover-up of official sightings. An Arizona-based UFO group has obtained 1,000 pages of documents under the Freedom of Information Act, which they assert prove government deception. According to Ground Saucer Watch, an organization of 500 scientists, these documents indicate the CIA has been secretly monitoring UFO sightings since 1949, using US embassies to gather information directed to the CIA, the White House, and the National Security Agency.

Internal CIA Memos and Concerns

The issue includes details from internal CIA memos. One memo from August 1, 1952, recommends surveillance of UFOs but stresses that "no indication of CIA interest or concern reach the press or public" due to potential public alarm. Another report from October 2, 1952, expresses concern that UFO sightings could be a cover for Soviet air attacks or psychological warfare, advising the National Security Agency be alerted and a public information policy developed to minimize concern.

International Sightings and Investigations

William Spaulding, head of Ground Saucer Watch, claims the documents reveal patterns and links in sightings, particularly around military installations. He also claims sworn evidence from two retired Air Force colonels about two UFO crash-landings and recoveries: one in Mexico in 1948 and another near Kingman, Arizona, in 1953, involving glimpsed four-foot-tall aliens with silverish complexions in silver suits.

Spaulding is awaiting a judge's ruling to obtain 57 items from the CIA, including film and residue evidence of "retrievals of the third kind." Among these are frames from a 1952 film shot by a Cleveland TV cameraman, which the Air Force explained as a meteor.

The magazine also presents a collection of international UFO reports:

• Italy: Reports include 147 "reliable" Italian sightings in a year, fishermen seeing "great balls of fire," and seven men near Naples claiming to have seen an 8ft. tall Martian. Three Al Italia DC-10 pilots reported a UFO travelling at 1,500 mph. A Naples professor of meteorology observed an object performing impossible acrobatics. Hundreds saw a giant kite-shaped object, and fifteen people, including a priest, saw a cone-shaped object land. Three soldiers in Sicily saw strange men exit a flying saucer on Mount Etna, and a technician was temporarily paralyzed by a glowing red UFO on Christmas Eve.
• South Africa: A former nurse from Krugersdorp claimed an encounter with a pink, unidentified object that landed, from which strange, dark-skinned beings emerged. Mrs. Meagan Quezel described a bright pink light and six beings, one with a beard, who vanished into the craft.
• Israel: A spate of UFO sightings included a red ball over Haifa and sparkling lights over Jerusalem, with the air force reporting no radar contact.
• Wales: Reports of three separate sightings include silver-clad figures landing from a spacecraft at Llanerchymedd, Anglesey, and a sighting at Prestatyn.
• North Wales: PC Neville Hughes reported two close encounters with unidentified flying objects, describing one as a bright light shining intermittently.
• UK (Grays/Tilbury): A Grays youth reported seeing "silver objects" with flashing lights. A Tilbury fitter reported "quite definite" sightings of bright white and orange lights that hovered. A ten-year-old Tilbury girl reported seeing a flying saucer, corroborated by an independent witness, Mrs. Elizabeth Heacock, who described a round, white object with red and green lights.

Other Sections

The issue also includes a "NEXT ISSUE" preview for EARTHLINK, announcing a report on a suspected genuine contactee. An errata section corrects notes from a previous issue of Earthlink regarding Mr. Ron Rider and provides case details for "The Warminster Thing Speaks."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are government secrecy and cover-ups related to UFO phenomena, the reliability of witness testimony, and the global nature of UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting evidence and witness accounts that support the reality of UFOs and suggest official obfuscation, encouraging readers to question official narratives and consider the possibility of extraterrestrial or advanced technological origins for these phenomena.