THE HAWK RESEARCHER

Magazine Overview

Title: THE HAWK RESEARCHER
Issue Date: January, 1962
Publisher: HAWK RESEARCH SOCIETY
Type: Magazine Issue

Content Summary

Book Review: 'Your Own Hind Wheels'

The issue features a review of Beverly Houle's book, "Your Own Hind Wheels." The book's unusual title is explained through a tale about a man driving a wheeled carriage. Houle's concept is that humanity has complicated its understanding of God. The book aims to simplify religion, promoting comfortable living with God and oneself, and viewing prayer as a conversation. Despite potentially un-professional writing, the religious conviction is described as lucid. The reviewer recommends the book for those studying new aspects of religion, noting it can be ordered for $1.00 from Mrs. Houle in Pomona, California.

Letters to the Editor

Two letters are included. The first, from AL GREENFIELD of R.O.A.P., states that an article by Harry Siebert in 'The UFO SIGHTER' was impressive and that Greenfield has written a response to be included in the same issue. The second letter, from Fletcher King, wishes the editor a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and asks about the progress of the editor's book. King also inquires about a location in Southern California with numerous UFO landing reports. Another correspondent, Dave Jones from England, is mentioned as wanting publicity for the formation of the British UFO Association, a centrally located bureau to collect and investigate UFO reports in the British Isles. G.N.P. Stephenson is listed as the Secretary.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "Satans Handiwork...", humorously describes the editor's new black kitten, Satan, who interferes with typing by walking on the keys and creating patterns. The editor thanks readers for Christmas cards and introduces Paul Grace, who will be assisting with the magazine and writing articles. The editor expresses satisfaction with the drawings and overall interior of the issue and notes that many letters agree with the content. The editorial concludes with a playful mention of Satan hissing from the floor.

Feature Article: 'The Mystery of the Contactee'

Authored by Rev. B. Strangess and abridged by the editor, this article delves into the phenomenon of "flying saucers" and UFOs. Strangess asserts that UFOs exist and will continue to appear regardless of military denials. He notes that reports come from around the world and that many notable individuals, including Henry J. Taylor, Capt. Få Rickenbacker, and Lord Dowding, have publicly reported sightings. The article suggests that officials in Washington may be withholding information due to fear of public panic. The author then shifts to the "mystery of the contactee," questioning whether these individuals are "nuts," "fortune hunters," "liars," or genuinely experiencing contact. He advises against hasty condemnation, emphasizing the need to know all the facts. An example is given of a sailor reporting a UFO off the coast of Florida, followed by the disappearance of several U.S. planes in the same area. Strangess argues that the descriptions of "space people" can vary greatly, just as human appearances differ by region, suggesting that beings from other planets might also have diverse appearances. He posits that forces are at play to discredit contactees. The author shares his own experience, detailed in his book "My Friend From Beyond Earth," which he claims involved a military warning about revealing details that could damage his reputation. He describes an encounter with a being from the planet Venus who appeared as a normal human. Strangess believes that truth will prevail and that false prophets will fall, while true contactees will be vindicated. He mentions that several congressmen have inquired about his experience and that he has voluntarily submitted to a lie detector test, which came out positive. He expresses hope to write more in the future and provides an address for questions.

Additional Content

The issue includes a postscript from Fletcher King, asking about the editor's book progress. It also contains an address for submitting letters to Harry R. Siebert, Editor of The Hawk Researcher, and a disclaimer that opinions expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the Hawk Research Society. A small illustration titled "Space Capture" by Arzo is featured on the final page, along with a mailing label addressed to Dale Rettig.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to be a platform for exploring UFO phenomena, alternative religious interpretations, and personal experiences with the unexplained. The editorial stance, as indicated by the editor's personal reflections and the inclusion of articles like "The Mystery of the Contactee," is open to investigating and discussing these topics, even those that may be controversial or difficult to verify. There is a clear emphasis on personal testimony and the belief that truth will eventually emerge, despite potential attempts to suppress or discredit it. The publication also seems to foster a sense of community among its readers and contributors, as evidenced by the letters section and the introduction of new writers.