Enigma - No 04 - 1994

Magazine Overview

Title: ENIGMA
Issue: 4
Date: Autumn 1994
Publisher: The Independent Research Centre for Unexplained Phenomena
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £1.50

This issue of ENIGMA, the journal of The Independent Research Centre for Unexplained Phenomena, delves into the persistent mysteries of crop circles and UFOs. The cover prominently features a striking image of a crop circle formation and the headline "Crop Circles: The Mystery Continues", setting the tone for the issue's primary focus.

Editorial: The Genuine Mystery

The editorial, dated 1st October 1994, reflects on the conclusion of the 1994 crop circle season. It acknowledges the widespread and organised hoaxing but asserts that a genuine scientific puzzle remains regarding the origins of the circles. The author criticizes sceptics who dismiss the phenomenon as mere hoaxes, arguing that experiencing the anomalous effects associated with crop circles firsthand is necessary to comprehend the genuine mystery. The editorial encourages readers to "GET UP AND THINK FOR YOURSELF. EXAMINE THE EVIDENCE AND RE-ASSESS THE PHENOMENON. GO AND VISIT A FORMATION FOR YOURSELF." It suggests that the circles are a form of communication from "circle-makers" to our "inner consciousness" and that progress in understanding this phenomenon is a personal journey.

Crop Circles: The Mystery Continues

Authored by Paul Vigay, this section provides a comprehensive summary of the crop circle phenomenon up to 1994. Vigay notes that 1994 was a significant year, and the subject has "come 'full circle'". He contrasts the "innocence" of the pre-1991 era with the widespread hoaxing and misinformation that followed Doug and Dave's public claims. Vigay argues that the media's acceptance of the hoax claims led the public to believe the phenomenon was entirely faked. He points out that the continued appearance of circles in 1992, despite Doug and Dave's claims of ceasing their activities, led to excuses of others copying their ideas. Vigay observes that while hoaxers aim to discredit the phenomenon and label researchers as "cranks", serious researchers were able to continue their work in relative peace during 1992-1993 due to less media attention and fewer sightseers. He notes that it is easier for hoaxers to "claim" a formation than to create one. The article cycles through the pattern of hoaxer debunking, public disinterest, researcher investigation, renewed media interest, and public re-engagement.

Crop Circle Analysis

Pages 4 through 9 feature detailed "Crop Circle Analysis" with diagrams and survey data for several formations from the 1994 season. The author deliberately refrains from labelling formations as genuine or hoax, allowing readers to form their own conclusions. Measurements and diagrams are provided for formations such as:

• Oliver's Castle (Nr Devizes), Wiltshire: Created 27/28th July, surveyed 30th July. Noted the addition of two small grapeshot circles later and a strong band of radio interference running north-south.
• Cheesefoot Head Punchbowl, Hampshire: Created 28th July, surveyed 31st July. Detected radio interference in the centre, strengthening towards the slope, originating from nearby woods.
• Froxfield "Galaxy", Wiltshire: Surveyed 9th August. Includes a table of angles and distances from the centre of the main circle for various points (A-G).
• Broad Hinton "Arthur C. Clarke Hoax", Wiltshire: Surveyed 9th August. Additional notes mention no anomalous effects but that some stalks remained standing, noting it was a known hoax commissioned by the Arthur Clarke TV team.
• Hackpen Hill "Dragon", Wiltshire: Surveyed 9th August. Described as "very impressive, tightly swirled centres", coupled with anomalous radio interference readings localized to the formation. Surveyors reported feeling dizzy.

The author thanks Vince Palmer, Chad and Gwen Deetken, and Andy Batey for their assistance in surveying the formations. Readers are invited to submit diagrams or aerial photos for future issues.

UFO News: Bob Oechlar Quits

This section features an announcement from Bob Oechlar, who states he is retiring from UFO research and investigations as of September 1st, 1994. He cites the "malicious libel, slander, distortion and unchecked fabrication" within the UFO field as debilitating to himself and his family. Oechlar believes UFOs are real but criticizes the egocentricity and self-importance of many ufology spokespersons. His final effort will be to publish the truth about the Guardian UFO Landing investigation in Carp, Ontario, with his archives to be transferred to a private research institute. He offers a synopsis of his research and discoveries via Project Awareness and recommends Michio Kaku's book "Hyperspace" for those interested in the phenomenon's scope and origins.

Book & Video Reviews

Crop Circle Apocalypse by John Macnish

This review discusses John Macnish's book, which is subtitled "Crop Circles: Case Closed". The reviewer notes the book's amateurish quality in terms of DTP and indexing but focuses on its content. Macnish's investigation led him to believe that all crop circles are hoaxes. The review details Macnish's attempts to film hoaxers creating circles, his investigation into events like the Barbury Castle pictogram and the Mandelbrot formation, and his dismissal of certain evidence. The reviewer criticizes Macnish's reliance on second-hand accounts and vague claims, such as "a group of hoaxers" claiming responsibility for circles in Japan. The reviewer concludes that while the book offers some interesting background information, it does not provide conclusive evidence to close the case of crop circles.

Crop Circle Communique II - 'Revelations' (Video Review)

This video review discusses a one-hour production by Circlevision Publications. The reviewer finds the video to be an attempt to "close the subject" and convince viewers that all circles are hoaxes. It features aerial shots of formations and interviews with "circles experts" like Pat Delgado, Colin Andrews, and Richard Andrews. The video covers "Operation Blackbird" and the Doug and Dave announcement. It also includes footage of hoaxers demonstrating their methods, such as Adrian Dexter using ladders and poles, and Jim Schnabel and Rob Irving using helium balloons with flashing lights. The reviewer notes that the video claims John Macnish commissioned the HMS Mercury formation. The reviewer expresses personal dissatisfaction, calling the video an "insult to my intelligence" and stating that it provides no solid evidence to debunk the phenomenon or prove all formations are hoaxed. The reviewer concludes that the video is a waste of money and reinforces their belief in a genuine phenomenon.

Round In Circles by Jim Schnabel

This review of Jim Schnabel's book suggests it is well-researched and provides a broad insight into the crop circle phenomenon, despite Schnabel's reputation as a hoaxer. The reviewer notes that the book primarily focuses on understanding the personalities and events associated with the subject, with major hoaxing discussed only towards the end. Schnabel is described as having a meticulous eye for detail. The book is recommended for its informative and enlightening account, offering background information rather than definitive proof to debunk the phenomenon. The reviewer mentions Schnabel's derogatory comments about some circle researchers.

Lights & Circles by John Vigay

John Vigay explores the potential connection between ancient stone circles and crop circles, noting that they often occur in similar areas. He questions whether crop circles in remote areas might be genuine due to less access for hoaxers. Vigay discusses the "Magical Places" of stone circles, referencing Janet and Colin Bord's description of Castlerigg Stone Circle in the Lake District. He recounts an observation of "white lights moving around" near the stones, which could be supernatural, earth movements, or ball lightning. Vigay invites readers to share their experiences of seeing lights around ancient stone circles at night. He describes the "Awesome Feelings" of awe and wonder experienced in remote stone circles, comparing it to the feeling of entering a crop circle, while acknowledging the modern skepticism surrounding crop circles as potential hoaxes.

Roswell: The Evidence

This section meticulously details the Roswell case, presenting testimony and evidence primarily from the 1992 book "Crash at Corona" by Stanton Friedman and Don Berliner. It outlines the sequence of events starting from July 2nd, 1947, with the alleged crash of a flying saucer on the Foster Ranch near Corona, New Mexico. Key events include:

• William "Mac" Brazel finding wreckage on July 3rd.
• Brazel showing pieces to Sheriff George Wilcox on July 6th.
• Roswell Army Air Field intelligence officer Major Jesse Marcel inspecting the wreckage.
• The Army issuing a press release on July 8th announcing the discovery of a crashed flying saucer.
• General Roger Ramey holding a press conference on July 8th, claiming the wreckage was from a weather balloon.

Testimonies from civilians like Loretta Proctor and Marian Strickland are included, describing the material found and the pressure to remain silent. Bessie Brazel Schreiber and William Brazel Jr., Mac Brazel's daughter and son, provide descriptions of the wreckage, noting its unusual metallic, foil-like properties, and strange markings. The section emphasizes that the material did not appear to be of terrestrial origin.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of crop circles, the ongoing debate between genuine phenomena and deliberate hoaxes, and the enduring intrigue of UFO sightings, particularly the Roswell incident. The magazine's stance is one of open-minded investigation, encouraging critical examination of evidence and personal exploration rather than outright dismissal. While acknowledging the reality of hoaxes, ENIGMA clearly positions itself as a platform for exploring the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena, urging readers to question official narratives and seek their own understanding. The editorial and the "Lights & Circles" section, in particular, advocate for a belief in the unexplained, while the "Crop Circle Analysis" provides detailed data for readers to interpret. The Roswell section presents a case for a significant historical UFO event, challenging the official explanation.

This issue of 'Roswell Testimonial' (Issue 31) is a compilation of firsthand accounts and testimonies related to the 1947 Roswell incident. Published by Enigma, it delves into the details of the alleged crash of a UFO and the subsequent military handling of the event and its aftermath. The magazine presents a strong case against the official 'weather balloon' explanation through the recollections of various individuals.

Key Testimonies and Accounts

William Brazel Jr.'s Account

William Brazel Jr., son of rancher Mac Brazel, recounts his father's discovery of wreckage on their property. He mentions his father was asked to take an oath of secrecy by the Air Force. Brazel Jr. found several small pieces of material, describing them as being like balsa wood, heavy-gauge fishing line, and a tinfoil-like substance that would unfold itself when creased. He noted the material was difficult to tear and had a color between tinfoil and lead foil. He also mentioned his father's comparison of some figures on the wood to ancient Indian petroglyphs.

Glenn Dennis's Recollections

Glenn Dennis, a mortician in Roswell in 1947, was involved in providing mortuary services for the Roswell Army Air Field. He received calls from the mortuary officer inquiring about hermetically sealed caskets and chemical solutions, indicating preparations for handling bodies. Dennis was told that bodies had been exposed to the elements for several days and were separated from the vehicle wreckage by several miles. He described hearing about three bodies: two mangled and one in good condition. During a visit to the base infirmary, he observed unusual activity and saw what he described as the bottom half of a canoe-like object in two ambulances, made of a material with a purplish hue. He also noted the presence of unrecognizable symbols on these objects. He was later warned by MPs to keep quiet.

Barbara Dugger's Testimony

Barbara Dugger, granddaughter of Sheriff George Wilcox, stated that military police warned her grandparents that they would be killed, along with their family, if they revealed anything about the incident. Her grandfather was told about the incident and went to the site, observing a large burned area and debris. He saw four 'space beings' with large heads, wearing silk-like suits, and one of them was alive. The experience reportedly shocked him, and he never wanted to be sheriff again.

Frank Joyce's Experience with the Press

Frank Joyce, who worked at radio station KGFL, received a call from someone, presumably Mac Brazel, about wreckage on his ranch. He advised the caller to contact the Roswell Army Air Base. Later, Lieutenant Walter Haut handed him a press release stating the Army had found a flying disk. Joyce expressed concern about the release but was assured it had clearance. He sent the release via wire, and the story broke. He then received a threatening phone call from an officer at the Pentagon.

Lydia Sleppy's Account of a Press Embargo

Lydia Sleppy, a teletype operator at Roswell radio station KSWS, described receiving a message stating, "This is the FBI, you will cease transmitting." She took the message in shorthand. She also mentioned that the wreckage was being transported to Texas, but planes from Wright Field were involved. She recalled seeing two ambulance-like objects resembling the bottom half of a canoe and symbols on them.

Jesse Marcel's Testimony

Major Jesse Marcel, one of the first military personnel at the Corona crash site, described the vast area covered by the debris, noting it was not from a ground impact or explosion but likely from something that exploded above ground at high speed. He stated the material was unlike anything he had seen before, very strong yet light, and could not be bent or burned. He was certain it was not a weather balloon, aircraft, or missile. He collected fragments with Sheridan Cavitt, loading them into a Jeep Carry-All. He also noted I-beam pieces with symbols that looked like hieroglyphics, in pink and purple colors.

Jesse Marcel Jr.'s Perspective

Jesse Marcel Jr., son of Major Jesse Marcel, recalled his father bringing wreckage home early one morning. He described the debris as unusual and unknown. He noted the I-beam pieces had geometric symbols, described as Egyptian-type hieroglyphics but not quite. The symbols were violet-purple and embossed. He and his family concluded the craft was not of earthly origin. He believed his father's statement that the weather balloon story was a cover-up.

Walter Haut's Press Release

Walter Haut, the public information officer at Roswell AAF, issued a press release on July 8, 1947, stating that the Army Air Forces had recovered a flying disc with the cooperation of a local rancher and the sheriff's office. The object had landed on a ranch near Roswell and was transported to Roswell Army Air Field for inspection.

Bill Rickett's Examination of Wreckage

Bill Rickett, a Counter Intelligence Corps officer, examined wreckage recovered from the Foster Ranch. He described the material as very strong and very light, bendable but not creasable. He noted that no one figured out what it was made of.

F.B.'s Photographic Mission

An Army Air Forces photographer, identified as F.B., was flown to Roswell with another photographer, A.K., to document the crash site. They were taken to a tent where they photographed what they described as bodies. F.B. took pictures of ten to twelve officers and the bodies, which were under a canvas. He noted the bodies looked thin with large heads and smelled funny. A.K. collected debris, including pieces that were not there when they initially took off.

Robert Porter's Account of Transporting Pieces

M/Sgt Robert Porter, a B-29 flight engineer, described flying pieces of wreckage. Officers told the crew it was parts of a flying saucer. The packages were wrapped and light. He recalled Lieutenant Colonel Payne Jennings and Major Marcel being present. He stated the material was not a weather balloon.

Robert Shirkey's Observation of Cargo Transport

First Lieutenant Robert Shirkey, assistant operations officer of the 509th Bomb Group, was involved in preparing a B-29 to fly to Fort Worth on Colonel Blanchard's orders. He saw approximately five people carrying pieces of metal, including one piece that was eighteen by twenty-four inches, brushed stainless steel.

Robert Slusher's Crate Transport

S/Sgt Robert Slusher was on board a B-29 that carried a specially made crate from Roswell AAF to Fort Worth AAF. The crate was twelve feet long, five feet wide, and four feet high. He noted the plane flew at a low altitude, and the bomb bay was not pressurized, implying the contents were sensitive to air pressure. He mentioned a rumor that the crate contained crash debris.

Melvin Brown's Daughter's Recollection

Beverly, daughter of Sergeant Melvin Brown, recounted her father's stories about guarding wreckage from a crashed flying saucer. He described seeing two dead alien bodies, smaller than humans, with large heads, slanted eyes, and yellowish skin. He said they looked 'nice' and would be friendly if alive.

Pappy Henderson's Story

Captain Oliver Wendell "Pappy" Henderson, stationed at Roswell AAF, reportedly told his wife and others that he flew wreckage of a UFO to Dayton, Ohio. He described the beings as small with large heads, strange clothing, and possibly packed in dry ice. His wife, Sappho Henderson, stated he was entrusted with top secrets and only revealed this story 34 years later.

Pappy Henderson's Daughter's Confirmation

Mary Kathryn Groode, Pappy Henderson's daughter, confirmed her father's interest in flying saucers and his statement that he saw the crashed craft and alien bodies, which he flew to Ohio. She recalled him describing the aliens as small, pale, with slanted eyes and large heads.

Pappy Henderson's Friend #1 (John Kromschroeder)

John Kromschroeder, a dentist and retired military officer, was shown a piece of metal by Pappy Henderson that he had taken from the wreckage. Kromschroeder determined it was an unfamiliar alloy, gray, lustrous, lighter, stiffer, and unbendable, with sharp edges.

Pappy Henderson's Friend #2

This friend recalled Pappy Henderson telling the story of flying the UFO and mentioning bodies. He was initially skeptical but found Pappy to be serious.

Prosaic Explanations Debunked

• The magazine systematically debunks the 'weather balloon' explanation:
• Secrecy: If it were a weather balloon, there would be no need for military officers to admonish subordinates and civilians not to talk.
• Material Recognition: Major Marcel, an expert, would have recognized weather balloon material and not investigated it so thoroughly.
• Volume and Area: The described wreckage was too extensive for a weather balloon.
• Transport Logistics: Transporting a weather balloon from Corona to Roswell and then to Fort Worth is illogical.
• Witness Recognition: Most witnesses would have recognized weather balloon remains.

• The magazine also debunks the 'secret rocket or airplane' explanation:
• Lack of Identifiable Markings: Witnesses reported strange writing, not recognizable symbols or numbers typical of military craft.
• Government Response: The Army's concoction of 'flying saucer' and 'weather balloon' stories, rather than a simple 'classified' statement, suggests a cover-up.
• Delayed Response: The military's delay in responding until informed by a rancher contradicts the protocol for secret military projects.
• Lack of Disclosure: Secret rockets or airplanes from 1947 are no longer secret, yet the weather balloon story persists.
• Rocket Self-Destruct: Rockets launched from White Sands in July 1947 had self-destruct mechanisms, making a crash near Corona unlikely.
• Secrecy of Airplanes: Secret airplanes were developed in California, not New Mexico.
• Transport Logic: Transporting wreckage of a secret rocket or airplane to Fort Worth and then Ohio is illogical.
• Witness Recognition: Witnesses would have recognized wreckage of a secret rocket or airplane.

Special Announcement and Subscription Details

The magazine includes a special announcement about I.R.C.U.P. joining the 'Global Telecommunications Super-Highway' for internet communication. Subscription details for 'Enigma' are provided, along with contact information for editorial matters and a bulletin board system. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or contributors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the strong conviction that the 1947 Roswell incident involved a crashed extraterrestrial vehicle and alien bodies, and that the government engaged in a significant cover-up. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of the UFO crash narrative, systematically dismantling the official explanations through the presentation of numerous eyewitness testimonies and logical arguments. The magazine emphasizes the unreliability of the 'weather balloon' and 'secret aircraft' explanations, highlighting the inconsistencies and secrecy surrounding the event.