Saucer News - Whole Number 24 - Vol 04 No 04 - 1957 06-07

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER NEWS
Issue: VOLUME 4, NUMBER 4 (Whole Number 24)
Date: JUNE-JULY 1957
Publisher: SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY
Country: USA
Editor: JAMES W. MOSELEY

This issue of SAUCER NEWS, dated June-July 1957, is published bi-monthly from Fort Lee, N.J. The cover features a photograph of Joseph Barbieri, a Connecticut saucer researcher, pointing to a hole in a New Haven signboard from August 20th, 1953, allegedly made by a mysterious flying object whose fragments were analyzed as copper. The magazine's mailing address is P.O. Box 163, Fort Lee, N.J.

Editorials

SAUCER NEWS EDITOR ATTACKED BY VICIOUS HOAX LETTER

Editor James W. Moseley addresses a delay in publication due to his absence on a business trip. During this time, a "fantastic hoax letter" appeared in the "Saucerian Bulletin," published by Gray Barker. This letter, originally sent to the now-defunct "Cosmic News," claimed that Moseley was an Air Force investigator and that SAUCER NEWS was a cover-up for the "earth theory" of saucers, promoting their extraterrestrial origin. The editor criticizes "Cosmic News" and Barker for publishing the letter without verifying its authenticity. SAUCER NEWS has begun its own investigation into the origin of this letter, noting that many people readily accepted it as true, while others suspect Barker or "Cosmic News" editors of fabricating it.

SAUCER NEWS "SCOOP" CONFIRMED BY RECENT BOOK

This section highlights a Reuters news dispatch from February 18, 1957, which confirms a story previously published in SAUCER NEWS. The dispatch details Nazi Germany's development of flying saucers during World War II, citing a book by Rudolph Lusar. These saucers were reportedly 138 feet in diameter, designed by German and Italian engineers, and capable of speeds exceeding 1,000 mph and altitudes over 40,000 feet. The first experimental flight was said to have occurred on February 14, 1945, at Prague. The article notes that SAUCER NEWS published details of this German saucer story two years prior to its appearance in American newspapers, referencing a previous article in the February 1955 issue of "Nexus."

Book Reviews

Other Tongues, Other Flesh (Williamson) - Reviewed by Lonzo Dove

Lonzo Dove reviews George Williamson's book "Other Tongues, Other Flesh," calling it "confused and confusing." The book is described as an occult commentary on Adamski's works and relies heavily on "leading researchers" like Van Tassel and Angelucci. Dove critically examines Williamson's claims, pointing out inconsistencies in dates and photographic evidence. He questions why Adamski and Williamson wrote separate books and highlights discrepancies in Williamson's drawings of footprints compared to those published earlier. Dove also debunks Williamson's theories about a "dark moon" and a "cool sun," deeming them "absurdities."

Feature Articles

The Scientists Might be Wrong - by Justin Case

This article challenges the infallibility of scientists, arguing that their conclusions about flying saucers being impossible visitors from space may be incorrect. The author cites historical examples where scientific consensus was later proven wrong, such as the Phlogiston Theory, alchemy, and the understanding of Mercury's orbit. The article suggests that present-day scientists who deny the possibility of space visitors might also be mistaken, given science's history of errors and revised understanding. It posits that flying saucers remain a mystery that current science cannot explain.

The Air Force and the Saucers (Part II) - by Dr. Leon Davidson

Dr. Leon Davidson discusses a secret U.S. government agency, referred to as "ZYA" (possibly NSA or CIA), that has been active in publicizing flying saucers since 1952. This agency's goal is to establish that flying saucers are real and extraterrestrial, contrasting with the earlier Air Force Project Grudge policy that denied their existence. The article reviews Captain E. J. Ruppelt's book, "The Report on Unidentified Flying Objects," which details the Air Force's involvement. Davidson examines the 1947-1951 period, noting that the first flying saucer sightings occurred in 1947. He suggests that the Navy's experimental XF5U-1 "Flying Flapjack" aircraft, tested around the same time as early saucer reports at Muroc, might be related to the sightings, or that a more novel aircraft based on captured German technology could have been involved. The article touches upon interservice rivalry between the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

This n' That

This section notes an improvement in the printing quality of SAUCER NEWS due to the purchase of an electric typewriter. It also critiques the "lunatic fringe" of "Saucerdom," mentioning a political party proposal from a Los Angeles organization that promises utopian benefits without socialism. The section further reports on changes in the saucer publication field, including the closure of "Cosmic News" and "Orbit," and the emergence of new magazines like "The U.F.O. Investigator" and Ray Palmer's "Flying Saucers from Other Worlds," the latter accused of lifting material without permission. It also mentions news about George Williamson's metaphysical colony in Peru and a past prediction by Dr. Charles Laughead about the world ending.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the questioning of scientific authority and its historical errors, the alleged development of advanced technology by Nazi Germany during WWII, and the ongoing investigation into the nature and origin of flying saucers. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, challenging established scientific dogma while also being skeptical of sensationalist claims and potential hoaxes within the UFO community. The magazine positions itself as a source for detailed reporting and analysis, aiming to uncover the truth behind the saucer enigma, even if it means questioning conventional scientific explanations.

This issue of SAUCER NEWS, dated February-March 1956, delves into the evolving official stance on flying saucers, particularly focusing on a pivotal shift in policy within the U.S. Air Force in 1951. The publication also explores the potential role of a secret agency, referred to as 'ZYA,' in leveraging UFO narratives for psychological warfare during the Cold War.

The 1951 Change in Policy

The article begins by referencing the closure of Project Grudge in 1949 and a subsequent lull in official saucer investigations. However, in 1951, a renewed interest emerged within the Department of Defense. The author posits that this interest was instigated by the 'ZYA' agency, suggesting its purpose was to foster public belief in saucers as part of 'psychological warfare' in the context of the 'cold war.'

A significant event was the Pentagon meeting on September 14, 1951, which Ruppelt documented. According to Ruppelt, the meeting's recording was destroyed, but the author recalls hearing it multiple times, emphasizing that the Generals present intended to treat saucer reports seriously. This led to the revitalization of Project Grudge and Ruppelt taking charge, resulting in an increase in reported sightings.

Ruppelt's book is cited to show that until 1952, the Air Force's approach was to dismiss reports as hoaxes or hallucinations. However, by late 1951, a change occurred, with high Air Force officials reportedly campaigning to build belief in the extraterrestrial nature of flying saucers. Ruppelt admits the Air Force unofficially inspired the 'Life' article of April 7, 1952, which significantly impacted public perception. The intensity of UFO stories grew in the following months, with prominent headlines about 'Sky Blasts in Seattle' (May 11, 1952) and spectacular sightings in Washington D.C. (July 20 and July 27, 1952).

A crucial meeting in mid-June 1952, attended by Air Force and Navy Intelligence officers and unnamed individuals (presumed to be from the 'ZYA' agency), is detailed. Ruppelt reported that Project Bluebook was instructed to stop debunking saucers. An Air Force Intelligence Colonel is quoted asking if positive assumptions could prove UFOs were interplanetary spaceships. The article notes that the idea of UFOs being interplanetary was gaining traction within the Pentagon, though discussed privately.

By the end of June 1952, most significant reports originated from the eastern United States. A scientist from an unnamed agency ('ZYA') predicted to Ruppelt that a major sighting would occur in Washington or New York within days, a prediction that proved accurate with the July sightings.

'Psychological Warfare' Applications of Flying Saucers

The article argues that in the 'cold war,' maintaining uncertainty about U.S. capabilities is advantageous. The author suggests that if the Russians believe the U.S. possesses advanced flying saucer technology, they would divert significant resources to counter this perceived threat, thus serving U.S. interests. The 'ZYA' agency's role is framed as potentially building up a story of advanced American devices to achieve this objective.

The article notes that while the U.S. government has not denied that saucers are American objects, it has also not provided direct answers to questions about whether the government has flown unconventional aircraft that could be mistaken for saucers. The author expresses concern that the 'psychological warfare' aspect may be a waste of time and money, potentially harming the U.S. status in the cold war.

It is emphasized that the actual performance of flying saucers, as reported, is not always as astounding as claimed, and flaws exist in specific reports (e.g., White Sands, Gulf of Mexico). The Air Force is accused of obstructing independent examination of reports, with Major Keyhoe being an exception, receiving reports after the 1952 policy change for what the author suggests were specific purposes.

Recent News and Other Items

The 'RECENT NEWS' section provides a round-up of overseas sightings and 'Fortean' events. A flying saucer reportedly landed in Beaucourt-sur-Landre, France, on May 11th, with four small gray figures observed. In England, an unidentified object flying at 1,000 mph was detected by radar on April 30th, later explained by the Air Ministry as two R.A.F. aircraft. A mystery blast in Exmoor, England, on May 7th, was also investigated.

'SCIENCE NOTES' discusses two U.S. Air Force methods for reaching Mars at near light speed: 'Photon' (using light itself) and 'Ionic Drive.'

The 'FOR THE POST-FORTEAN FILE' section includes reports of unusual lights in Alaskan skies, mysterious stones falling in Western Australia, an unoccupied house in England repeatedly set on fire, and a haunted house in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Other items include a green puppy born in Denver, black snow in Norway, an ice block crushing a car roof in Long Island, and an update on the Abominable Snowman, with an expedition by Tom Slick finding tracks and hair samples.

A ghost sighting at the Tower of London and an investigation into a derelict 'ghost yacht' off the coast of Jamaica are also mentioned.

BOOK REVIEW: Flying Saucers, Fact or Fiction?

Max Miller's book, reviewed by James Moseley, is highly praised as one of the best on the subject. The review notes that Miller's material is well-selected and presented in a readable, non-sensational style. The book is recommended for both veteran saucer fans and the general reader seeking information on the history and current status of saucer investigation.

Conclusion

The author concludes that the flying saucer story is filled with illogicalities and confusion. The lack of a definitive solution after ten years of study, and the fact that the National Academy of Science has never been asked to investigate, leads the author to believe that the Air Force has not conducted a bona fide investigation. The article poses a direct question to the government regarding the flying of unconventional aircraft or the launching of artificial meteors that could be mistaken for saucers. The author suggests that public questioning of government statements is needed to solve the mystery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the official investigation and public perception of flying saucers, particularly in the context of the Cold War and psychological warfare. The editorial stance appears critical of the government's handling of the UFO issue, suggesting a lack of transparency and potentially a deliberate manipulation of public belief for strategic purposes. The author advocates for more direct answers from government officials and emphasizes the need for public scrutiny.