Magazine Summary

The UFO Enigma

Magazine Issue UFO Study Group of Greater St. Louis 2000s

Ever wanted to host your own late-night paranormal radio show?

Across the Airwaves · Narrative Sim · Windows · $2.95

You’re on the air. Callers bring Mothman, Fresno Nightcrawlers, UFO sightings, reptilian autopsies, and whispers about AATIP and Project Blue Book. Every reply shapes how the night goes.

UFO & UAP Cryptids Paranormal Government Secrets Classified Files High Strangeness Strange Creatures
The night is long. The lines are open →

Summary

Overview

This issue of The UFO Enigma covers a range of UFO phenomena, including a detailed report on the 1972 McChord AFB incident where shots were fired at alleged ETs. It also features a survey on emotional responses to extraterrestrials, an investigation into the controversial Burrows Cave with alleged inscribed tablets, and numerous witness accounts of various UFO shapes and behaviors from across the US and internationally. The publication highlights the ongoing interest and investigation into UFOs by groups like MUFON and the UFO Study Group of Greater St. Louis.

Magazine Overview

Title: The UFO Enigma
Issue: Volume 22, Number 6
Date: February 2002
Publisher: UFO Study Group of Greater St. Louis
Country: USA

This issue of The UFO Enigma delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, featuring personal accounts, investigative reports, and survey results.

Bill Berrigan & “Human-Alien Contacts-Conflicts?"

The issue opens with an introduction to Bill Berrigan, a featured speaker for the UFO Study Group of Greater St. Louis. Berrigan, born in Boston, Massachusetts, shares his early memories of unconventional saucer-shaped aircraft, encounters with "little people," out-of-body experiences, and an abduction that left a scoop mark. He recounts developing a "vision" that he would be used to tell people about the source of the UFO phenomenon. Berrigan, an advisor to industry with 20 years of experience in software design, expresses a desire to be "normal" but questions if anyone truly is. He graduated in the top 10% of his class and was offered a place at the U.S. Air Force Academy but chose to study computer science at Northeastern University instead. He is now involved in creating original websites and helping industry maximize its potential.

Survey Report: Your Responses to Extraterrestrials, Part 2

By John E. Schroeder, this report explores the emotional responses to aliens based on seven survey forms. While many observers of UFOs and abductees experience fear or ambivalence, UFO Study Group members show surprisingly positive and open responses. The survey addresses whether extraterrestrials are perceived as wise, superior, good, evil, or a combination. It also touches upon the development of equal technologies, with some believing UFO research has advanced technology and others suggesting we may already benefit from retroengineering alien craft. Regarding personal contact, opinions range from openness to worry and fear, with some believing in divine protection against demonic influences. Future world projections vary, with some anticipating the end of civilization, others advanced technology, and some a psychical and spiritual shift.

The 1972 McChord AFB UFO Incident - Shots Fired At ET

By Former AFOSI agent c. 2001 Robert Collins, this article details a classified incident from October 1972. Airmen First Class Steven Briggs and Dennis Hillsgeck were sent to check a tactical air navigational (TACAN) facility. They heard a strange sound and observed a saucer-shaped object land nearby. Two "creatures" were seen walking towards the fence. Briggs contacted base security police, leading to Sgt. Dwight Reid and AIC Michael Tash being dispatched. Upon arrival, Briggs and Hillsgeck appeared dazed and burnt. AIC Tash found marks in the dirt. Sgt. Reid then observed a saucer-shaped object hovering overhead. The security police radio failed to function. Sgt. Reid and AIC Tash retrieved Briggs and Hillsgeck. Later, Sgt. Alexander observed two "creatures" near a power station and fired six rounds from his revolver. A Security Alert Team found the saucer-shaped object on the ground. Captain Henry Stone arrived, but the object departed as he approached. Office of Special Investigations agents investigated, and the incident was classified as Top Secret.

UFO investigator chases out-of-this-world reports

By Michael Sangiacomo, this article profiles John Timmerman, a 77-year-old retired banker and treasurer of the Center for UFO Studies, who has investigated UFOs for over 50 years. Timmerman believes sightings are evidence of extraterrestrial visitation. He discusses the skepticism from scientists like Lawrence Krauss, who argue for extraordinary evidence beyond eyewitness testimony. Timmerman worked with the late J. Allen Hynek on Project Blue Book and felt the Air Force used him for legitimacy. He notes the thousands of reports received annually from diverse individuals. The article highlights a specific sighting by Denise Knitz and 17 other travelers on October 31st, involving a strange egg-shaped object with a blue-white glow that streaked across the sky. Timmerman is convinced that "something is out there" and that "we're being visited by something from a place so different that we can't even comprehend it."

Filer's Files

This section presents a collection of UFO sighting reports compiled by George A. Filer, Director of MUFON Skywatch Investigations. Reports include:

  • Michigan Diamond Shaped UFO: Witnesses in Boyne City reported a loud rumbling sound and a large diamond-shaped UFO with lights.
  • Mancelona, Michigan: A bell-shaped cylinder UFO with red lights was observed.
  • Illinois Bright Ball of Light: A witness in Lebanon reported a ball of light moving across the sky at high speed.
  • Florida Flying V: A witness in Edgewater saw an object like a flock of flying birds forming a V-shape.
  • Panama City Beach, Florida: A witness reported a glowing orange chevron-shaped object flying rapidly across the sky.
  • Northeast: A woman reported a red glowing object that morphed into a silver pillar and shot into the sky, causing car malfunctions.
  • Australia Man Followed by UFO: A truck driver in Fernvale reported being followed by a bright light that seemed to distort time.
  • New York Unseen Aircraft Sounds: Reports of low-flying, invisible aircraft and power outages in the Catskills and Adirondack areas.
  • North Carolina Triangular Shaped Object with Moving Spheres: A triangular object with internal spheres was observed moving southeast.
  • Texas Rod Shaped Object: A witness in Wichita Falls saw a white rod-shaped object moving silently overhead.
  • New Mexico Five Very Bright Spheres: A formation of five bright spheres with glowing tails was observed traveling north.
  • Chile: Startling UFO Sighting: Reports of large lights descending and remaining suspended in the pre-Cordilleran region.
  • Washington New Years Eve UFO: Three unexplainable golden lights were observed moving in a smooth, upward direction.
  • Scotland UFOs Filmed: Footage of three massive, elliptical motherships over Edinburgh, issuing forth smaller pod-shaped ships.
  • Belgium and France New UFO Wave: Reports of flying black triangles with blue lighting and other colored lights, possibly related to SHAPE.
  • Florida Saw a Bright Oval Object with Rings: A bright oval object with rings was observed moving slowly down a river.

Update on Southern Illinois Site

By Wayne May, this article revisits the controversial "Burrows Cave" in Southern Illinois, which allegedly contains thousands of inscribed and illustrated stone tablets. Representatives from Ancient American and Discovery Resources have joined forces to identify and open the cave. The known openings appear to be deliberately collapsed. Mr. Burrows now claims the identified site is not his, insisting his site is over forty miles away and was revealed to him by local Indians. Ancient American Magazine and Discovery Resources are using high-tech equipment, including Ground Penetration Radar and a specialized metal detector, to explore "their" site, which they now refer to as "Tombs of the Embarras." They plan to enter the system soon, with a licensed archaeologist, a mining engineer, and a Ho Chunk Elder present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFOs and potential extraterrestrial contact. The publication consistently presents witness accounts and investigative findings, suggesting a belief in the reality of these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and a commitment to reporting on unexplained aerial phenomena, even when facing skepticism or official downplaying. The inclusion of "Filer's Files" and detailed incident reports underscores a dedication to documenting a wide range of sightings and encounters from around the globe.

Title: The UFO Enigma
Issue: #40
Date: February 2002
Publisher: Mutual UFO Network Eastern (implied by Filer's Files #40)
Content Focus: UFO sightings, survey reports on UFO experiences, and local UFO group meetings.

Survey Report: The Last Word, Part 3

This section, authored by John Schroeder, presents the final part of a survey conducted by The Enigma. The report compiles responses from individuals who have had UFO experiences, aiming to understand the impact on their lives and perspectives. One respondent, whose comments are italicized, reflects on how their UFO experience altered their perception of reality, describing the world as "dark" but acknowledging the possibility of "magic." They note that while the experience was profound, it did not necessarily benefit their personal life, education, or employment. The respondent expresses uncertainty about the "reality" of "machines" or "occupants" but believes that if they exist, they are "superior." They also express a desire for "repentance, spiritual renewal and loving sharing" for mankind, suggesting a perceived lack of humanitarian advancement. The author notes that UFO research can seem "spasmodic, undirected, primitive and unreliable," with many hoaxes and fabrications hindering progress, and that solutions are needed.

Witness Reports

Wisconsin Flying Triangle

On September 23, 2001, a witness in Greenville, Wisconsin, reported seeing a triangular aircraft with three or four bright white lights on two sides and two red blinking lights. The craft was observed hovering at approximately 400-500 feet above farm fields near the intersection of US 45 and 150. Other vehicles on the road slowed down to observe the phenomenon. The report was submitted by Duane W. from UFOWisconsin.

Illinois UFO

On September 1, 2001, near Crete, Illinois, a witness reported seeing a UFO hovering about 100 feet above an open field at 12:30 AM. The object was described as a dim yellowish-white with a brighter underbelly and approximately 1.5 times the length of a bus. The witness, who had not previously believed in UFOs, was awestruck by the object's rapid upward movement and change of direction.

Nebraska Daylight Flying Triangle

On August 29, 2001, near Omaha, Nebraska, a witness with Air Force experience observed a black, long, narrow, angled triangle moving east. The witness estimated its length at about 231 feet, similar to a 747. The craft's shape was distinctly different from known aircraft like the B1 or B2 bombers, particularly its narrowness and the way its wings were not in a delta configuration at high speed. The object disappeared quickly when the witness checked the time.

Kansas Orbs

On October 1, 2001, at 4:26 AM, Pat Wells of Coldwater, Kansas, observed an orb in the western sky using binoculars. The orb displayed red, white, and yellowish flashing lights and appeared to revolve. It remained stationary for about fifteen minutes before flying west. The light was described as intense.

Local Meetings

UFO Study Group of Greater St. Louis

This group meets on the second Sunday of each month at 2 PM at Grone's Cafeteria, located at 1269 S. Laclede Station Rd. in Yorkshire Shopping Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63119. Contact persons are Walter Palmer (314-771-0173) and Spence Wolling (314-966-4955).

MUFON Missouri-St. Charles, MO

Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM at the Holiday Inn Select, 4221 South Outer Road, St. Peters, MO. Contact Bruce Widaman at 636-946-1394.

MUFON of Southern Illinois

This group meets on the third Sunday of each month at 2 PM at the Ponderosa Steak House in Collinsville, IL. Directions involve taking I-55/70 east from St. Louis to Illinois 157, then north on 157, turning left at the police sign. Contact Forest Crawford at 618-345-0554.

Organization Information

  • UFO Study Group of Greater St. Louis, Inc.
  • Address: P.O. Box 31544, St. Louis, Missouri 63131
  • Officers (2000-2001): President: Clarence Barnes, Vice President: Walter Palmer, Treasurer: Spencer Wolling, Secretary: Margaret Myers, Librarian: Walter Palmer, Marshall: Frank Brown.
  • Miscellaneous: Chief Field Investigator: JoAnne Scarpellini, Field Investigator: Dawn Vohsen, Resource Contributor: Bob Soetebier, Editor of the Enigma: Spencer Wolling.
  • Board of Directors: Clarence Barnes, Walter Palmer, Spencer Wolling, Margaret Myers, John Schroeder, Frank Brown, Walter Rogers.
  • UHR (Unidentified Flying Objects Research)
  • Address: P. O. Box 80176, Stoneham, MA 02180
  • Note: A nonprofit organization dedicated to research and investigation of unidentified flying objects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the personal impact of UFO experiences and the ongoing efforts of UFO research organizations. The editorial stance, as suggested by the inclusion of the survey report and the detailed witness accounts, is to present firsthand accounts and encourage further investigation and discussion within the UFO community. The magazine also serves as a directory for local UFO groups, promoting community engagement and information sharing. There is an underlying tone of seriousness regarding UFO phenomena, with a call for more rigorous research and a concern about misinformation.

“I have always wanted to be 'normal'; but I haven't figured out how to be normal yet. In fact, I wonder if anyone really is."

— Bill Berrigan

Key Incidents

  1. 1972-10-14McChord Air Force Base, Washington

    An incident involving Airmen Briggs and Hillsgeck at a TACAN facility, where they witnessed a saucer-shaped object, two creatures, and shots were fired by Sgt. Alexander.

  2. 2001-10-31Bowling Green, Ohio

    Denise Knitz and 17 other travelers witnessed a strange egg-shaped object that drifted, pivoted, and then streaked across the night sky.

  3. 2001-11-07Northeast, USA

    A 30-year-old professional female reported an encounter with a red glowing, irregular shaped object that morphed into a silver pillar and shot into the sky, causing car malfunctions.

  4. 2001-11-09Edgewater, Florida

    A witness saw a V-shaped object resembling a flock of flying birds with lights, followed by three planes.

  5. 2001-11-09Panama City Beach, Florida

    A witness saw a glowing orange chevron-shaped object fly rapidly across the sky, described as a boomerang or chevron.

  6. 2001-11-15Boyne City, Michigan

    Multiple witnesses reported a loud rumbling sound and a large diamond-shaped UFO with lights and an orange light in the middle, which moved and returned.

  7. 2001-11-15Mancelona, Michigan

    Witnesses saw a bell-shaped cylinder UFO with three red lights and a glowing reddish-whitish light, moving slowly with two other aircraft.

  8. 2001-12-01Albuquerque, New Mexico

    A formation of five very bright spheres with long, arcing, glowing tails traveled slowly north, disappearing behind mountains.

  9. 2001-12-04Lebanon, Illinois

    A witness observed a ball of light moving across the sky at high speed on multiple nights.

  10. 2001-12-06Wichita Falls, Texas

    A witness saw a white rod-shaped object, about 4 feet long, moving silently fifteen feet overhead.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the McChord AFB UFO incident?

The 1972 McChord AFB incident involved Airmen Briggs and Hillsgeck witnessing a saucer-shaped object and creatures, leading to shots being fired by Sgt. Alexander and the incident being classified as Top Secret.

What is the significance of the Burrows Cave?

The Burrows Cave is alleged to contain thousands of inscribed and illustrated stone tablets deposited by Old World visitors, and its excavation is being undertaken by Ancient American Magazine and Discovery Resources.

What are some of the UFO shapes reported in this issue?

Reported UFO shapes include saucer-shaped, diamond-shaped, bell-shaped, egg-shaped, V-shaped, chevron-shaped, rod-shaped, oval, triangular, square-shaped, and elliptical objects.

What kind of effects have UFO sightings had on witnesses?

Witnesses have reported emotional responses ranging from amazement and wonder to fear and ambivalence. Some encounters have also resulted in physical effects like car malfunctions and even physical traces.

In This Issue

People Mentioned

  • Bill Berriganspeaker
  • John E. Schroederauthor
  • Robert Collinsauthor
  • Michael Sangiacomoreporter
  • John Timmermaninvestigator
  • J. Allen Hynekfounder
  • Lawrence Krausschairman
  • Denise Knitzwitness
  • Tim O'Neilwitness
  • Gary Hewlettspecialist
  • Gene Stormengineer
  • Russell Burrowsdiscoverer
  • +13 more

Organisations

  • UFO Study Group of Greater St. Louis, Inc.
  • US Air Force Academy
  • Northeastern University
  • MUFON
  • Center for UFO Studies
  • Project Blue Book
  • National UFO Reporting Center
  • NUFORC
  • AFOSI
  • US Army
  • Ft. Lewis
  • 62nd Security Police Squadron
  • Office of Special Investigations
  • Discovery Resources
  • +7 more

Locations

  • St. Louis, USA
  • Boston, USA
  • Massachusetts, USA
  • McChord Air Force Base, USA
  • Washington state, USA
  • Illinois, USA
  • Southern Illinois, USA
  • Marion, USA
  • Wayne County, USA
  • California, USA
  • Wisconsin, USA
  • Black River Falls, USA
  • Salt Lake City, USA
  • Reno, USA
  • +6 more

Topics & Themes

UFO SightingsExtraterrestrial ContactAbductionGovernment Cover-upAncient CivilizationsSurvey ReportUFOextraterrestrialalienenigmacontactsightingsinvestigationMcChord AFBBurrows CaveUFO investigatorparanormalNew MexicoAustraliaBelgium