JUST CAUSE

Magazine Overview

Title: JUST CAUSE
Issue: NUMBER 23
Date: March 1990
Publisher: Lawrence Fawcett
Editor: Barry Greenwood

This issue of JUST CAUSE features an in-depth article by Robert G. Todd titled "Another "Smoking Gun"?" which scrutinizes the authenticity of the alleged "Operation Majestic 12" (MJ-12) briefing paper and the Truman-Forrestal memo. The central thesis posits that Bill Moore may be the author of these documents, supported by a detailed analysis of his return address stamp and its characteristics.

"Another "Smoking Gun"?" by Robert G. Todd

The article begins by presenting the premise that physical evidence has surfaced implicating Bill Moore as the author of the alleged Eisenhower briefing and the Truman-Forrestal memo. The author points to the distinctive return address used on envelopes mailed by Bill Moore, noting its large size and the fact that it appears sideways, suggesting it was assembled from a kit of movable, reusable type.

Several characteristics of Moore's return address stamp are highlighted:

1. Consistent Type Style and Size: The type used for Moore's Arizona address is the same size and style as that currently used for his California address.
2. Raised Letter "I": In the names "WILLIAM" and "OLIVE," the letter "I" is slightly raised, a common trait of stamps assembled from kits.
3. Sloppy Appearance: The overall look of the return address is described as "sloppy, unprofessional," further suggesting assembly from a kit or shoddy custom work.
4. ZIP Code Placement: A comparison between a 1985 return address (Figure 3) and a 1990 return address (Figure 4) shows the ZIP code in the 1990 version is closer to the state abbreviation, indicating adjustments made possible by a kit of movable type.

The article then draws a critical parallel between Moore's return address stamp and the classification markings found on the MJ-12 briefing paper itself. The type style used for "TOP SECRET/MAJIC" and "EYES ONLY" on the briefing document is claimed to be identical to Moore's return address stamp, although the size is larger on the briefing paper. The author notes that Moore likely possesses multiple type styles, making it plausible he could have used a larger size for the classification markings.

Furthermore, the classification markings on the briefing paper are also described as appearing to be applied using a rubber stamp assembled from a kit, with the telltale raised letter "I" in "MAJIC" being pointed out.

While acknowledging that many such rubber stamp kits exist, the author emphasizes the "highly significant coincidence" that the person distributing the document (Moore) uses a kit with type identical in style to the classification markings on the Eisenhower briefing paper and identical in both style and size to the "EYES ONLY" portion of the Truman-Forrestal memo. This leads to the conclusion that Bill Moore "specifically, may be the author."

Analysis of Document Anomalies

The article extends its investigation by comparing Moore's copy of the MJ-12 briefing paper with a version obtained by Timothy Good from a "CIA source." The comparison focuses on anomalies present in both copies, suggesting a common origin.

1. "Magic Marker" Deletions: While not identical, the ink deletions of security markings on both Moore's and Good's versions show a marked similarity, being slash-type and often done with a single stroke. These deletions do not completely obscure the text.
2. "Vertical Ridges": Both versions exhibit a pattern of "photocopier noise" – vertical parallel ridges caused by an uncleaned machine. While the density and clarity vary, the general pattern is similar, suggesting both copies were made on the same machine at different times.
3. "Fingerprint": A specific marking, described as two lines at roughly 30-degree angles, appears on both Moore's and Good's copies. This mark is attributed to a flaw in the photocopier roller.

Based on these shared anomalies, the article concludes that the machine used by Moore/Shandera was the source for Good's copies, rather than Good receiving them from a separate CIA source.

Timothy Good's Sources and the MJ-12 Debate

The article questions Timothy Good's assertion that he obtained the MJ-12 briefing paper from a "CIA source," contrasting it with his earlier statements and the evidence presented. The author explores three possibilities:

1. Good is lying to protect Moore.
2. Moore is a CIA source, which he denies.
3. Good mistakenly believes Moore is CIA.

Testimony from Lee Graham is cited, recounting an incident where Moore flashed an official-looking ID badge (believed to be from the Defense Investigative Service) and later gave Graham MJ-12 papers. Graham also stated that Moore claimed to have been told by a U.S. government agency to approach him to leak the documents.

The author emphasizes the importance of Timothy Good explaining the situation and expresses a desire for him not to be "caught in an awful mess."

Addendum and Air Force Response

An addendum reproduces a 1985 advertisement from Moore's Focus newsletter, comparing "TOP SECRET" graphics to security markings on the Truman/Forrestal letter, suggesting a match with Moore's personal rubber stamps.

A letter from Frank H. Batten, Jr., Chief of the FOIA/PA Release Branch at the Department of the Air Force, responds to a request from Lawrence Fawcett. The Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) states that it is not maintaining any files identifiable with the request, based on a search of the Defense Central Index of Investigations (DCII).

A "Late Note" mentions that Timothy Good's book "CLEAR INTENT" is due to be reissued as "THE UFO COVER-UP."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of JUST CAUSE strongly focuses on the critical examination of UFO-related documents, particularly the MJ-12 papers. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards official narratives and a deep dive into the forensic analysis of documents to uncover potential authorship and authenticity issues. The magazine champions investigative journalism, using detailed comparisons of physical evidence, such as rubber stamp impressions and photocopier artifacts, to challenge established claims. The underlying theme is the potential for disinformation and the importance of rigorous scrutiny in the field of UFO research. The publication seems dedicated to exposing what it perceives as hoaxes or manipulations within the UFO community, particularly when they involve figures like Bill Moore and documents that have gained significant traction.