UFO Brigantia issue 32

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: 32
Date: May-June 1988
Publisher: Independent UFO Network (I.U.N.)
Type: A Journal of UFO Investigation.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Andy Roberts, addresses the phenomenon of 'abduction fever' which is sweeping America and, to a lesser extent, the UK. Roberts reviews two books on the subject: Jenny Randles' 'Abduction' and Phil Klass's 'UFO Abductions - A Dangerous Game'. He notes that Klass's book raises more questions and is likely to draw criticism from the UFO community. The editorial highlights a shift in how abductees are identified, moving from chance encounters to a more proactive advertising of the phenomenon, leading to a potential oversupply of cases. Roberts draws parallels between modern abduction accounts and medieval witchcraft accusations, suggesting that the 'rules of the game' have changed, with ufologists now actively seeking out abductees. He questions whether the phenomenon is truly physical or a product of suggestion and cultural influence, especially in the context of the 'hype' surrounding abductions in the US. The editorial also mentions the upcoming issue will feature Jenny Randles' work on a crashed saucer case and other ufological items.

The I.U.N.

The Independent UFO Network (IUN) was established in September 1987, merging the West Yorkshire UFO Research Group (WYUFORG) and the Yorkshire UFO Network (YUFON), along with other independent investigators from northern England. The IUN operates as a non-dogmatic, free-floating group of researchers committed to total freedom of information and witness anonymity. They maintain an open-door policy for case files and do not hold a fixed viewpoint on the ultimate nature of the UFO phenomenon, respecting individual beliefs. Membership is free, requiring only a willingness to further the group's aims. The IUN also manages a 24-hour UFO Hotline and is involved in Project Pennine, a study of anomalous light phenomena in the UK.

Contents

The issue includes an Editorial by Andy Roberts, an article titled 'South Yorkshire Happenings' by David Clarke, 'A Soapy Abduction' by IUN, 'Letters' from Various contributors, 'News', a book review of Phil Klass's work by Regina Cullen, and an advertisement. Other reviews cover the MUFON Journal and Randles' 'ABDUCTION'.

South Yorkshire Happenings: A Recent Flap Dissected

This article by David Clarke investigates a series of UFO sightings in the South Yorkshire region, particularly the Sheffield/Rotherham area, during January and February 1988. Initially, the reports suggested an unprecedented number of sightings. However, the investigation points towards many of these being misidentifications of a low-flying aircraft, possibly military, operating on a regular route. This aircraft was observed flying at treetop level, with flashing lights and a loud engine noise, causing concern among residents who initially mistook it for a UFO or even an aircraft about to crash.

Evidence from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) suggests they are not aware of specific air defence activity matching the sightings. However, they did note that low-level flights are more likely to be of military origin. Airports like Leeds/Bradford and East Midlands could not identify any specific aircraft matching the descriptions, but suggested it was likely an aircraft en route between airports, possibly military. Manchester Airport also found no relevant traffic patterns.

Despite these explanations, some groups, like the Yorkshire UFO Society (YUFOS), maintain that certain sightings, such as the Ecclesfield V-shaped UFO, could not be explained by conventional means and must be a 'spaceship'. The article notes a lack of cooperation between the IUN and YUFOS.

Other Sightings and Objects

Beyond the likely misidentified aircraft, the issue details other unusual sightings:

• 'Space-Shuttle' UFO Over Rotherham: On February 5th, 1988, Martin Vernon and Paul Leach reported seeing a huge, 'cross-shaped' object with an oblong body, flashing white light, and a row of red-lit windows. It was estimated to be 20-30 times larger than a conventional aircraft, flew silently at 1000-2000ft, and had a creamy-white appearance with large white tiles on its underside, resembling the Space Shuttle.
• Hoyland Object: On February 10th, 1988, a peculiar aerial object was seen moving erratically at 'incredible speed' in the direction of Ecclesfield, described as a blob of white light. Shortly after, Mr and Mrs Softly observed an object 'like a block of flats lit up' moving from Ecclesfield towards Sheffield, described as oblong with red and yellow lights and making no sound.
• Barnsley Object: On February 10th, observations in the Barnsley area included a huge black metallic 'set-square' object hovering 15ft above electricity pylons, following them towards Wentworth.
• Similar Shaped Object: Four days after the Hoyland sighting, two YUFOS investigators reportedly saw a similar-shaped object rise from the ground in the Wentworth area.
• Miner's Sighting: Martyn Morgan reported seeing a similar cross-shaped object on January 5th in Barnsley, which performed a 90-degree manoeuvre at 50-60 ft above the trees.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO sightings in the UK, particularly South Yorkshire, and the critical examination of abduction claims. The IUN adopts a stance of open-mindedness and rigorous investigation, seeking conventional explanations where possible but acknowledging the existence of phenomena that remain unexplained. The editorial highlights the increasing 'commercialization' and 'hype' surrounding abduction reports, contrasting it with the more traditional investigative approach. The magazine encourages reader participation through letters and article submissions, emphasizing a commitment to freedom of information and a non-dogmatic approach to ufology.

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA from May/June 1988 (Volume 88) features a mix of UFO sighting reports, an in-depth analysis of a controversial abduction case, and a spirited debate on the nature of disinformation and the MJ-12 documents.

UFO Sightings and Police Encounters

The issue opens with reports of UFO sightings. One account describes an object seen by two groups of policemen on night patrol in the West Midlands. They described it as a "brightly lit oblong craft whizzing silently across the sky," noting its unusual movements and lack of sound. Another sighting involved a grey/metallic silver object covered in boxes and machinery, resembling "spaceships off Star wars," which departed at high speed.

A Soapy Abduction: The Case of Mrs C

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an investigation by IUN (Investigators of the Unexplained) into a case involving a witness identified as Mrs C. The investigators, including R. Howarth, P. Mantle, and A. Roberts, visited Mrs C on February 14th, 1988, after she reported an abduction experience on February 12th. Mrs C, described as extremely distraught, recounted being awakened by two men and taken aboard a massive spaceship. Inside, she was examined in a white cubicle under a bright light and had a tube inserted into her arm. She overheard the men discussing that she had "been done" and would "be able to have a baby," despite having been sterilized years earlier. She also reported physical symptoms, including sickness and a peculiar vaginal discharge, and recalled a "sweet smell" described as "cinnamon."

The investigators noted that Mrs C's account bore striking similarities to the abduction sequence in the TV soap opera "Dynasty," which had been re-run on the same night as her alleged experience. While Mrs C admitted watching the program, she denied it influenced her account. However, the investigators concluded that her experience was likely a lucid dream influenced by "Dynasty," citing the identical details such as the smell of cinnamon and the description of the UFO. Despite this conclusion, the case is considered open, and further interviews were planned.

MUFON Journal Review

A review highlights the MUFON Journal, recommending it to British ufologists to broaden their perspective beyond local publications. The reviewer praises its monthly publication schedule, comprehensive coverage of world ufological news, and high production quality, calling it superior to British counterparts. Recent issues featured the Gulf Breeze and Mundrabilla cases, and interviews with Jacques Vallee and Jenny Randles. The subscription cost for UK subscribers is noted as $30 for 12 issues.

Letters to the Editor: The Kenneth Arnold Sighting and MJ-12 Debate

The letters section features several contributors discussing various UFO-related topics.

Paul Devereux responds to an editorial about the Kenneth Arnold 1947 sighting, agreeing it was an "ordinary" sighting but emphasizing its historical context. He argues that Arnold's sighting was the first mass-media event of its kind, occurring in a post-WWII era of heightened paranoia and technological advancement, which made it uniquely significant. Devereux lists several points supporting the sighting's validity, including its occurrence over a fault system in a high-incidence UFO area, potential seismicity correlations, and the geological context of the Cascades region.

John Spencer writes to clarify his position regarding Regina Cullen's article on the Kenneth Arnold sighting. He states that Cullen quoted him out of context and that he was not trying to explain Arnold's sighting as a conventional aircraft. Spencer views the Arnold sighting itself as of "little or no importance" due to its short duration and lack of corroboration, but acknowledges its significant social impact. He discusses his analysis of how social pressures might lead witnesses to subconsciously alter their reports to be more credible, suggesting that the perceived speed of Arnold's saucers (1350-1700 mph) was a factor in its credibility.

Ralph Noyes inquires about Jenny Randles' mention of a "covert approach" by a "file-offering serviceman" who allegedly had MJ-12 material. Noyes seeks more information, believing the name and origin of this informant could be a clue to the MJ-12 affair. He acknowledges a writer's duty to protect sources but questions anonymity when the source might be involved in disinformation.

Chris Allan strongly criticizes Jenny Randles' ideas on "disinformation" and the MJ-12 documents, calling them "preposterous." He questions the US government's motive for releasing genuine UFO papers while planting false ones and forging signatures. Allan argues that faking the MJ-12 papers would not require "high level information" or special access to archives, and that many genuine UFO documents have been released without mentioning MJ-12. He suggests Jenny Randles is upset because Tim Good received the MJ-12 material and she did not.

Jenny Randles replies to the letters from Chris Allan and Ralph Noyes. She acknowledges Allan's points but finds Noyes's position more pertinent due to his role in filtering UFO data. Randles discusses her commentary on Ralph's writing about "A SECRET PROPERTY," noting a discrepancy between his insistence that it was not based on real events and his speculations on the case. She defends her approach to the MJ-12 documents, suggesting that while the serviceman might have been used as a messenger, reporting the incident prematurely would have been irresponsible due to the potential personal risk to the source and his family. She also explains her choice to focus on the USA and "distance" the report from the serviceman.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently touches upon themes of disinformation, the credibility of UFO reports, and the psychological aspects of witness testimony. There's a clear engagement with the ongoing debate surrounding the MJ-12 documents, with differing opinions on their authenticity and the motives behind their dissemination. The editorial stance appears to favor critical analysis and a cautious approach to reporting, particularly concerning sensitive sources and potentially fabricated information. The magazine also promotes the idea of looking beyond national UFO communities to gain a broader understanding of the global ufological landscape.

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA, dated May/June 1988, focuses heavily on the controversial MJ-12 documents and the ongoing debate surrounding UFO abductions. The magazine presents a personal account from the author regarding the acquisition of alleged secret US government UFO documentation, contrasting it with the critical perspectives of skeptics like Phil Klass and highlighting the work of abduction researchers.

The MJ-12 Documentation Controversy

The author recounts being contacted by an individual who claimed to have received a substantial amount of documentation concerning a secret US government investigation into UFOs, which the author strongly suspects is related to the MJ-12 papers. This source described detailed information, including dates of events, crashed UFO incidents, and autopsies performed on aliens. The author and their colleague, Peter Hough, initially approached the story with skepticism, as they had not yet seen any documents. They met with the source, who provided detailed descriptions and accounts of how the papers were obtained from a British officer, who in turn got them from a USAF employee. Despite some matching details and evidence that the source was telling the truth, the source failed to produce the documents, leading the author to eventually drop the matter. However, the source later re-established contact via a long letter, explaining his disappearance and the questioning he underwent, which the author found plausible. The author also notes that Chris Allan has made allegations regarding this story, which the author refutes, suggesting Allan has ulterior motives.

Critique of Phil Klass and Skepticism

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a critical review of Phil Klass's book, 'UFO Abductions: A Dangerous Game'. The reviewer, Regina Cullen, describes Klass's work as a 'travesty' characterized by 'slur, sarcasm, implication, half truth, half baked logic, puerile righteousness', and intellectual dishonesty. The review argues that Klass ignores physical evidence and phenomena, dismisses important cases like the Kathie Davis landing trace, and relies on a 'psychological' explanation for abductions, suggesting that abductees are suffering from 'psychological needs' or are 'fantasists'. Klass is accused of attempting to discredit researchers like Budd Hopkins, David Jacobs, and Leo Sprinkle by implying they are 'psychopaths' or 'criminals' and that their methods of hypnosis plant 'pseudo-memories'. The review also criticizes Klass's handling of the Betty and Barney Hill case, his dismissal of the Travis Walton case, and his general approach to UFO phenomena, suggesting his work is propaganda designed to deflect attention from genuine mysteries.

Review of Jenny Randles' 'Abduction'

The issue includes a positive review of Jenny Randles' book, 'Abduction'. The reviewer praises the book for offering a balanced overview of the abduction experience, moving beyond the extreme viewpoints often found in the field. Randles' work is noted for exploring historical abduction accounts, cataloging cases worldwide, and arguing effectively against purely psychological explanations for abductions. The review highlights Randles' refutation of experiments like the Lawson 'Imaginary Abductee' experiments and her use of Eddie Bullard's study, concluding that her case is strong and warrants serious consideration.

Other Content and Publications

Beyond the main articles, the magazine features several smaller sections. There is a 'Books for Sale' section listing various UFO-related titles with prices. A 'Magazines' section offers duplicates of 'Flying Saucer Review' for sale. A 'Publications' section provides contact information for George Fawcett, who offers a listing of recommended UFO items. Additionally, an announcement is made for the annual 'Ley Hunter Moot', a conference on Earth Mysteries and related topics, detailing its date, location in Swansea, Wales, speakers, and activities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing debate between believers and skeptics in the UFO field, the critical examination of evidence and research methodologies, and the personal experiences of those involved in UFO investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical engagement, valuing rigorous research and personal integrity while strongly opposing what it perceives as biased or intellectually dishonest debunking. The magazine champions the work of researchers who present evidence for genuine anomalous phenomena, particularly in the realm of abductions, and is critical of those who dismiss such phenomena without thorough investigation. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of distinguishing between genuine investigation and sensationalism or propaganda.

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: MAY/JUN '88
Volume: 31
Date: May/June 1988

This issue of UFO Brigantia features a critical review of a skeptical analysis by P. Klass concerning UFO 'Missing Time' cases, particularly those investigated by Budd Hopkins. It also includes an extensive catalog of UFO and Space Age publications.

Editorial Content

Critique of P. Klass's Skepticism

The primary article in this issue is a strong rebuttal of P. Klass's skeptical approach to UFO phenomena, specifically his critique of Budd Hopkins' work. The author argues that Klass's analysis is flawed, characterized by "careless generalization, inaccuracy, and unnecessarily withering tone." The piece defends Budd Hopkins and the subjects of his investigations, suggesting that Klass's skepticism is not based on sound methodology but rather on a preconceived bias or a desire to fulfill the "psychological needs" of an "ostrich-sceptic." The author questions Klass's motives and competence, concluding that his arguments are like a "house of cards" ready to collapse.

A specific case study involving a woman named Kathie is discussed. Klass suggests Kathie wrote to Budd Hopkins as a prank or to "enliven her then drab life." The author refutes this, pointing to evidence in Hopkins' book 'Intruders' that Kathie tore up her first letter, indicating seriousness. The author highlights that Kathie's mother was in a "suspended" state during the time Kathie experienced "missing time," and saw nothing unusual, while Kathie herself was amnesic about the period. Klass's interpretation of this as a lack of significance or a potential conspiracy between Hopkins and Kathie is strongly criticized.

The editorial expresses dismay at what it perceives as a trend of "Fashion For Scepticism," lamenting the departure from "sensible empiricism" and the "Scientific Method," and calling for an "OPEN MIND."

UFO & SPACE AGE PUBLICATIONS Catalog

The second page of the magazine is dedicated to a comprehensive list of books and publications related to UFOs and space age phenomena, available for purchase. This catalog includes a wide range of titles, such as:

• "LIGHT YEARS" by Gary Kinder
• "UFO CRASH AT AZTEC" by Wendelle Stevens
• "UFO PHOTOGRAPHS AROUND THE WORLD VOL I & II" by Wendelle Stevens
• "UFO CONTACT FROM PLANET UMNO VOL I" by A. Ribera
• "UFO CONTACT FROM RETICULUM" by Stevens and Herrman
• "UFO CONTACT FROM ITIBA RA" by Pallmann & Stevens
• "UFO CONTACT OVER MODERN CHINA" by Stevens & Dong
• "EXTRATERRESTRIALS AMONG US" by G. Andrews
• "THE GOBLIN UNIVERSE" by Ted Holiday
• "UFO'S FROM 1947-1987" by Hilary Evans
• "CLEAR INTENT" by Lawrence Fawcett & Barry Greenwood
• "FORTEAN TIMES" magazine (back issues available)
• "MYSTERY CLOUDS ARE COMING" by Dr. Donald Coverdale
• "THE AWESOME LIFE FORCE" by Joseph H. Cater
• Numerous titles by Riley Crabbe, including "THE FLYING SAUCER MYSTERY AND ITS SOLUTION," "WHO FLIES THE FLYING SAUCERS," "THE REALITY OF THE CAVERN WORLD," "FLYING SAUCERS & THE NEW CONSCIOUSNESS," "FLYING SAUCERS UNCENSORED," "COMMUNICATION WITH FLYING SAUCERS," "M.K. JESSUP AND THE ALLENDE LETTERS," "RAINBOW CITY FROM THE HEFFERLIN MANUSCRIPT PART ONE & TWO," "FLYING SAUCERS & AMERICA'S DESTINY," and "FLYING SAUCERS ON THE MOON."
• "SPACECRAFT FROM BEYOND THE SUN" by Riley Crabbe
• "COSMIC CONTINENTS" by Dr. Raymond Drake
• "THE PENNINE UFO MYSTERY" by Jenny Randles

Information is provided on how to order these publications, including the requirement to send a stamped, self-addressed envelope and two first-class stamps for a complete list. The order address is given as Ms S. R. Stebbing, 41 Terminus Drive, Beltinge, Herne Bay, Kent CT6 6PR.

The magazine also notes that it is "Printed by Emjay Reprographics, 17 Langbank Avenue, Rise Park, Nottingham, NGS SBU."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of skepticism towards UFO phenomena and the promotion of UFO literature. The editorial stance is clearly against what it views as unfounded or biased skepticism, advocating for an open-minded and empirical approach to the subject. The extensive publication list suggests a commitment to disseminating information and resources within the UFO community.