UFO Forum - Speciale - aprile 1997

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO forum
Issue: n. 19
Date: April 1997
Publisher: Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU)
Country: Italy
Language: Italian

This special issue of UFO Forum, titled "SPECIALE COVER-UP," is dedicated to exploring the phenomenon of government secrecy surrounding UFOs. It aims to provide a different perspective from the usual 'cover-up' theories, suggesting that the secrecy is more likely related to classified terrestrial military technology and disinformation rather than the direct concealment of alien evidence.

"Why a Special Issue?"

Giuseppe Verdi, in his editorial, explains the origin of UFO Forum as a platform for discussion among CISU members. He notes that while the 'forum' aspect has been less successful than anticipated, the 'review' aspect, where members submit articles and studies, has thrived. This abundance of material led to the idea of a special issue dedicated to a specific theme, with 'cover-up' being chosen due to a recent accumulation of texts on the subject. The goal is to maintain a detached and realistic approach, characteristic of CISU.

Verdi introduces the articles in this special issue: Marco Orlandi's "Cover-up? No, thanks," which suggests cover-ups are likely for 'earthly' reasons; Peter Kor's (Tom Comella) "Is there a 'Pro' flying saucer conspiracy?" which challenges orthodox ufology; Francesco Antoniazzi's "Psychology of the Conspiracy Theory and the Ufological Environment"; and a piece on Dr. Michael Wolf's alleged revelations about Area 51.

Cover-up? No, thanks

Marco Orlandi argues that the 'cover-up' phenomenon, often attributed to intelligence agencies hiding evidence of extraterrestrial contact, is more likely driven by socio-political and economic motivations to prevent global societal collapse. He expresses skepticism about the evidence presented by proponents of an alien cover-up, suggesting that such claims often rely on sensationalism and lack of verifiable proof. Orlandi points to the Ray Santilli alien autopsy footage as an example of how unverified claims can be prematurely linked to events like the Roswell incident. He posits that the secrecy surrounding UFOs might stem from a need to conceal either advanced terrestrial technology or the authorities' own ignorance.

Orlandi traces the origins of this secrecy back to the post-World War II era and the Cold War, a period of intense geopolitical tension and a race for military technological superiority. He highlights the development of advanced military technologies, often kept secret, and the constant fear of the opposing bloc. This climate of suspicion and the need for national security, he argues, could explain the classification of information related to unidentified aerial phenomena.

He suggests that the secrecy surrounding UFOs might be due to two main scenarios: first, the existence of secret terrestrial technology, as seen in cases like Arnold's "flying saucers" (experimental aircraft), Roswell (Project MOGUL balloons), and Mantell (Project SKYHOOK balloons). Second, cases where the phenomena cannot be explained by secret technology, such as the "Washington Carousel," where the authorities' response might be to conceal their own lack of understanding rather than alien knowledge, to avoid public panic and maintain control.

Examples of Recent Incidents

The article examines several key incidents to illustrate the 'cover-up' concept. The Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947 is presented as the event that officially launched the modern UFO era. Orlandi suggests Arnold may have encountered secret experimental aircraft rather than alien craft, noting that Germany was developing similar 'tail-less' aircraft prior to the war.

The Roswell incident in 1947 is discussed, with the official explanation of a Project MOGUL balloon being presented as a cover-up for the recovery of something more significant. The death of Captain Thomas Mantell in 1948 while pursuing a UFO is also analyzed. While some suggest alien involvement, a more plausible explanation points to Mantell chasing a secret military balloon from the SKYHOOK project.

The "Washington Carousel" of 1952, where radar detected numerous unidentified objects over the capital, is cited as an example where the Air Force's explanation of radar inversion and reflections from the star Capella was met with disbelief by pilots and radar operators. The article suggests this response was intended to prevent public panic about unknown aerial activities, whether military or otherwise.

What is Happening?

Orlandi proposes a two-part explanation for the 'cover-up' phenomenon. The first part involves the need to conceal secret terrestrial technologies, citing the Arnold, Roswell, and Mantell cases as examples where advanced, classified military projects were likely involved. The second part addresses phenomena not easily explained by terrestrial technology, suggesting that authorities might conceal their own ignorance to avoid causing public alarm and maintain control, especially during periods of geopolitical tension like the Cold War.

He discusses the Betty Cash and Vickie Landrum case in 1980, where they reported seeing a diamond-shaped object and helicopters, leading to claims of radiation damage. The government's denial of involvement is seen not as a cover-up of alien technology, but as an attempt to hide the experimental nature of military aircraft.

The article also touches upon Area 51, suggesting that its secrecy fuels speculation about alien craft and reverse-engineering. However, Orlandi proposes that the base might be involved in testing highly advanced, non-alien technologies, and the secrecy is to protect these projects and prevent public knowledge of their capabilities.

In Italy

The article notes that in Italy, military and ministerial authorities also collect and archive UFO-related information, mirroring practices in other countries. Obtaining this data is often difficult, leading some ufologists to believe in a global conspiracy. However, the authors suggest that this is more a reflection of standard bureaucratic procedures and national security concerns, rather than a coordinated effort to hide alien evidence.

They highlight that UFO reports are primarily of interest to military bodies for national air defense purposes. Information is archived but not necessarily studied unless it poses a direct threat. The article mentions the SIOS (Servizio Informazioni dell'Aeronautica Militare) intervention in the Piacenza case, explaining it was due to the potential compromise of classified mission details leaked to the press, not necessarily to cover up an alien sighting.

Similarly, the Cecconi case in Treviso, involving photographs of a UFO, is explained by the presence of military airport structures in the background, making the photos classified material. The article dismisses the idea of a 'cover-up' based on a "DESTROY AFTER" stamp on a document, explaining it as a standard archival procedure.

Special Cases and Conclusion

The authors distinguish between military and civilian pilots reporting UFOs. For military personnel, disclosure might be restricted due to the possibility of revealing classified military activities. For civilian pilots, a negative response might stem from a desire by airlines to protect their reputation and avoid potential safety concerns if a pilot were deemed mentally unstable.

The article praises the British aviation safety commission's investigation into a UFO sighting by British Airways pilots Roger Wills and Mark Stuart, which acknowledged the object as a UFO and commended the pilots for their actions. This is presented as an example of honest and coherent handling of such events.

Finally, the article mentions the declassification of UFO sighting data by the UK Ministry of Defence, which, while archived, has not been extensively studied, suggesting that the focus is on national security rather than alien phenomena. The authors conclude that while governments collect UFO data, the lack of detailed study or disclosure is often due to bureaucratic procedures, national security concerns, and the desire to protect classified terrestrial technologies, rather than a global conspiracy to hide alien existence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this special issue are government secrecy, military technology, disinformation, and the psychological aspects of conspiracy theories. The editorial stance, as presented by Giuseppe Verdi and through the articles, is one of critical analysis and a preference for rational, evidence-based explanations, often rooted in terrestrial military and intelligence activities, over speculative theories of alien cover-ups. The magazine advocates for a more open sharing of information by authorities and a more balanced approach from ufologists.

This issue of 'UFO forum' (Vol. 1, Issue 11, November-December 1996) delves into the complex and controversial topic of UFO cover-ups and conspiracy theories. The main cover headline, "Esiste un complotto pro dischi volanti?" (Is there a conspiracy for flying saucers?), sets the tone for an in-depth exploration of the subject, featuring an article by Peter Kor and translated by Matteo Leone.

Part 1 - Reconsidering the "Cover-Up"

The first part of the issue examines the prevailing belief that governments are engaged in a massive cover-up regarding UFOs. It outlines common theories, such as agencies knowing about extraterrestrial craft or desperately trying to solve the mystery. However, it introduces a more profound possibility: that the government might be hiding the fact that there is nothing to hide, and that para-governmental groups are actively creating the perception of a deep truth to be concealed. This suggests that much of the UFO mystery and movement might be manufactured and controlled by the very entities accused of suppressing it.

The article lists several points commonly cited as evidence for a cover-up:

1. Suspicious Government Reactions: The Air Force and other agencies allegedly minimized sightings publicly while conducting secret investigations.
2. Suppression of Internal Investigations: Factions within the Air Force that favored the extraterrestrial hypothesis were allegedly suppressed, with only negative results and conventional explanations made public.
3. Classification of Reports: Many UFO reports were classified, implying hidden information.
4. Absurd Explanations: Official explanations for key sightings were often deemed nonsensical.
5. Confiscation of Evidence: Photos and materials related to UFO encounters were allegedly confiscated and never returned.
6. Men in Black: Researchers claim to have been threatened by mysterious 'men in black,' suggesting government efforts to contain information.
7. Government Denials: Air Force denials are seen as unconvincing given the numerous global sightings.
8. CIA Involvement: The CIA's alleged involvement in UFO investigations is interpreted as proof of a cover-up.

The article then analyzes these points, offering alternative explanations. It argues that the Air Force's initial defensiveness was understandable due to the sudden appearance of unexplained objects and the fear of a potential attack. The government's subsequent efforts might have been aimed at controlling or even promoting the UFO movement rather than suppressing it.

Regarding the suppression of dissenting opinions, the article questions the effectiveness of any alleged suppression, noting that information from figures like Donald Keyhoe and Frank Edwards was widely published. It suggests that the leaks might have been intentional, creating a narrative of suppression.

Classification of Reports: The article proposes non-conspiratorial reasons for classifying reports, such as preliminary assessment, protecting secret military technology, or preventing information leaks. However, it acknowledges that classification processes may have been abused. The frequent breaches of secrecy, evidenced by Keyhoe's access to classified information, are highlighted.

Absurd Explanations: The article posits that absurd explanations for UFO sightings might stem from the inherently unbelievable nature of some original reports, rather than a deliberate attempt to mislead. However, it concedes that some official responses were unsatisfactory.

Confiscation of Evidence: Potential explanations for confiscated evidence include bureaucratic loss, false claims by finders, or the need to conceal secret hardware. A more radical possibility is the involvement of clandestine organizations staging fake incidents.

Silenced Cases: The article suggests that individuals claiming to have been silenced (like Albert Bender) may not have possessed crucial information, and that the 'men in black' stories might be designed to create an impression of suppression rather than actual suppression.

Accumulation of Reports: While thousands of UFO reports exist, the article argues that none have produced conclusive evidence. It suggests that the apparent cover-up might be a logical outcome of the lack of concrete proof, rather than active suppression.

CIA Involvement: The CIA's interest in UFOs is seen not as proof of a cover-up of a secret, but simply as evidence of high-level interest. The CIA's role is to gather intelligence and plan covert operations, and their involvement might be part of a broader intelligence-gathering effort.

The article poses several critical questions for researchers: Is the UFO mystery primarily a result of a cover-up operation? Was the alleged government cover-up a tactic to generate support for the UFO cause by creating opposition? Have some cases been fabricated using hypnosis or psychoactive substances? Has UFO research been infiltrated by quasi-official agents? Are UFO researchers being funded by shadowy partners? Is the media's attention to UFOs a calculated attempt to shift 'discophobia' from fanatics to the general public? It questions whether researchers might be unknowingly playing a role dictated by secret entities, potentially using the UFO myth for psychological warfare.

Part 2 - Understanding the New Theory

This section introduces a new theory suggesting that the UFO phenomenon and its associated conspiracy narratives are more coherent with a plot to *promote* disks rather than suppress them. Researchers are urged to consider that their efforts might be subtly triggered and directed by individuals with hidden motives.

The article outlines how this conspiracy might operate:

• Initial Mystery: Early UFO sightings genuinely puzzled government officials and intelligence experts.
• Shift in Focus: The initial investigation by the Air Force aimed to find answers while maintaining secrecy. However, as events unfolded, the focus shifted from discovering the truth about UFOs to promoting and manipulating the mystery surrounding them.
• Secret Group: A secret group, aware of the official investigations but not known to them, infiltrated and used the official channels.
• Methods of Promotion: This secret group allegedly stimulated interest through direct agent participation and indirect funding of organizations and researchers. They encouraged the idea of a cover-up through intentional leaks of 'secret' reports and investigations. They also created UFO hysteria by inventing incidents and staging encounters.

This scenario requires minimal direct intervention, relying on the widespread UFO community to propagate the ideas and generate further reports. The article suggests that only a small percentage of direct intervention (2%) is needed, with the remaining 98% being the 'contagious confusion' of materialized fantasies, psychic experiences, and hoaxes.

Themes and Patterns: The article identifies several recurring themes that require scrutiny: alleged top-secret reports from the late 1950s, the formation of NICAP in the mid-1950s, early contactee reports, the 'contactee contagion' of the 1970s, and the resurgence of crashed UFO stories in the late 1970s. Researchers are prompted to ask:

• Who were the primary sources of these claims?
• What are their backgrounds and connections?
• Who helped publicize their claims?
• What social, political, or ideological ends could be served by the widespread acceptance of these claims?

Particular attention is advised for ufologists with secret informants or backgrounds in intelligence agencies. The 'mentor phenomenon,' where individuals receive ideas and guidance from peripheral figures, is highlighted. The funding of specific individuals and projects within ufology is also questioned.

The 'Who' and 'Why': The conspiracy is not attributed to the government or agencies themselves but to a powerful private group with ongoing ties to various government departments. Agents of intelligence are seen as crucial links, potentially unaware of the true motives behind their actions. Their pragmatic approach would involve manipulating fringe groups.

The Purpose: The article suggests that the UFO phenomenon might be a means of psychological warfare, used to shape societal attitudes, economic policies, and foreign relations. The shift in UFO beliefs in the 1970s, from alien visitors to interdimensional beings and archetypes, is seen as a move to counter anti-establishment sentiments and regain control of the narrative.

Alternative 3 and Majestic 12: The article references 'Alternative 3' and the 'Majestic 12' incident as examples of how conspiracy theories are constructed and become unfalsifiable. Any attempt to debunk them is interpreted by adherents as further proof of a cover-up.

Psychology of Conspiracy Theory and the Ufological Environment

This section, authored by Francesco Antoniazzi, explores the psychological underpinnings of conspiracy theories and their prevalence in ufology. It notes the significant increase in popularity of ufology, particularly in recent years, and how it has become synonymous with conspiracy and paranoia for the general public.

Antoniazzi argues that the success of these theories is due to powerful psychological mechanisms. He contrasts the scientific approach to ufology with the more paranoid, 'cover-up' focused narratives that dominate popular discourse.

Characteristics of Conspiracy Theories:

1. Historical Interpretation: They interpret history as the result of hidden, malevolent forces ('dark forces') working underground to achieve secret goals.
2. Denial of Chance: They deny the role of chance and error, attributing all events to a deliberate plot.
3. Explanatory Function: They provide a totalizing explanation for events, making complex issues seem simple and understandable to adherents.
4. Unfalsifiability: They are constructed in a way that makes them impossible to disprove. Any attempt at refutation is seen as part of the conspiracy itself, thus confirming the theory.

These characteristics, the author states, have ensured the enduring success of conspiracy theories throughout history. Examples include theories about Freemasons, Jesuits, the CIA, and the Illuminati. The article notes that such thinking is not confined to any single political ideology.

Ufological Conspiracy Theories: The article classifies ufological conspiracy theories into three levels:

1. The 'Conspiracy of Silence': Military and governmental bodies are accused of discrediting or silencing UFO sightings for understandable (fear of public panic) or unknowable reasons.
2. The 'Secret Government': Governments are aware of the truth about UFOs, which are alien spacecraft, and are hiding it from the public and ufologists.
3. The 'Alien Conspiracy': This is the most extreme view, suggesting that the US government has made a pact with aliens, detrimental to humanity. This perspective often involves stories of alleged UFO crashes and the 'Majestic 12' group.

The article points out that the theme of a conspiracy of silence in ufology dates back to 1947, with early examples like Donald Keyhoe's 'The Flying Saucers Conspiracy' and Frank Scully's stories of crashed saucers. It argues that the current wave of American ufology is not new but a resurgence of old, even decrepit, themes.

Parallelism with Classic Conspiracy Theories: The article draws parallels between classic conspiracy theories and ufological ones, highlighting how they share the same psychological underpinnings. For instance, the idea that 'reality is not what it seems' is applied to historical events, such as the alleged suicide of General Forrestal being a cover-up for his involvement in Majestic 12, or President Kennedy's assassination being linked to his intention to reveal alien secrets.

Explanatory Power: The article emphasizes the totalizing explanatory power of these theories, where every event is part of a grand alien conspiracy. It notes that proponents of these theories often claim to know everything about the subject.

Suspicion Towards Skeptics: The article describes how skeptics are viewed with suspicion by conspiracy adherents. An example is given of Jacques Vallée being accused by Milton William Cooper of either seeking the truth or hiding it, leading to Vallée being categorized as a participant in the conspiracy.

Unfalsifiability in Practice: The 'Alternative 3' legend is cited as an example of unfalsifiability, where the conclusion that the story must be true is drawn from the effort allegedly made to hide it. The article concludes that it is crucial to be aware of these age-old psychological mechanisms that influence the ufological environment and to study their characteristics and consequences.

The Latest "Deep Throat" (L'ultima "gola profonda")

This section presents an interview with a self-proclaimed American scientist, Dr. Michael Wolf, who claims to have worked at Area 51 and to possess insider knowledge about UFOs and extraterrestrial encounters. The interview, conducted by James Courant and published by Graham Birdsall in UFO Magazine (November-December 1996), is presented with a degree of caution due to potential contradictions and the limited circulation of Wolf's book, "The Catchers of Heaven."

Dr. Michael Wolf, described as a neurologist with a severe spinal condition, is presented as a potential key figure in ufology. He has allegedly published a limited-edition book detailing sensational information about UFOs, alien contact, and abduction experiences. The proceeds from the book are dedicated to the Daniel Wolf Memorial Foundation for Children, Inc., established in memory of his son.

The interview reveals incredible claims, including detailed private information and tragic personal events. Wolf's wife and son died in a car accident in Switzerland on Christmas Day 1984, an event Wolf believes was deliberately orchestrated. He was in a coma for seven days, and the head of intelligence at the time allegedly told him the vehicle had been "fixed."

Wolf's credentials include being an emeritus of the New England Institute for Advanced Research, a member of the New York Academy of Sciences, and a patron of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The article notes that, unlike Bob Lazar, whose scientific credentials were found lacking, Wolf appears to have more substantial affiliations.

The article mentions that a segment of Wolf's interview was played at the XV International Ufological Conference in Leeds. A second printing of "The Catchers of Heaven" is underway in the United States.

Revelations

James Courant's six-hour interview with Dr. Wolf yielded a "valanche of incredible affirmations." Wolf provided classified information, some of which was personal and tragic. The article highlights the car accident that killed Wolf's wife and son, and his belief that the vehicle was tampered with, as indicated by the head of intelligence. Wolf's background as a neurologist and his study of pathology are mentioned in relation to his alleged access to information about EBEs (Extraterrestrial Biological Entities).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the theme of conspiracy and cover-ups within ufology. It presents both the traditional view of government suppression and a more radical theory suggesting the phenomenon itself might be manufactured for psychological control. The articles emphasize the psychological appeal of conspiracy theories, their unfalsifiable nature, and their deep roots in both historical and contemporary discourse. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, urging researchers to be aware of these psychological mechanisms and to question the narratives they encounter, rather than blindly accepting them.

This issue of UFO Forum, dated November-December 1996, features an in-depth interview with Dr. Wolf, a scientist and former consultant for the National Security Council, under the headline "COVER-UP". The magazine explores his claims about working with alien technology, the Roswell incident, and government secrecy surrounding UFOs.

Dr. Wolf's Claims and Background

Dr. Wolf describes his background in theoretical physics and his work on molecular calculation and organic chemical reactions. He states that he was a consultant for the security of the National Security Council and worked at Area 51 as a team leader involved in reverse-engineering alien technology. He clarifies that reverse-engineering is essentially copying and notes that much of the technology is far beyond current human capabilities.

He explains that he decided to go public because a new generation of bureaucrats is questioning government secrecy. Wolf asserts that he has had high-level access, including to Area 51, and that he has worked directly with EBEs (Extraterrestrial Biological Entities).

When asked about Bob Lazar and John Lear, Wolf stated that Lazar has never changed his story. Wolf positions himself as a scientist who only states what he knows and has seen, rather than theorizing.

Communication with EBEs and Alien Technology

Dr. Wolf describes communication with EBEs as a form of ESP, with attempts to form words. He notes that their cosmology, principles, and culture are dynamically different from humans'. He also discusses the recovery of alien craft, stating that they had nine or more, though not all were operational. Wolf raises the question of whether aliens deliberately provided technology as a test, to see how humanity would use it, and if they are waiting for humans to create a hybrid by combining alien and human DNA.

The Roswell Incident

Regarding the Roswell incident, Dr. Wolf's father was a pilot in the 509th Bombardment Squadron stationed at the base. Wolf suggests that two alien craft may have collided, possibly influenced by 'Cult radar' or alien navigation systems. He mentions that there were survivors, including 'orange' (pink and brown) and 'gray' aliens with six fingers on their hands and feet. He recounts that two 'orange' aliens were alive, but one died after being struck with a rifle butt while holding boxes containing gifts. Three others also died from cerebral hemorrhages.

The Santilli Alien Autopsy Film

Dr. Wolf comments on the controversial Santilli alien autopsy film, stating that if it were a fake, it would require technology not yet possessed by humans. He has seen similar dissection footage, distinguishing it from autopsies. He also mentions that some Roswell debris was sent to laboratories, including the Battelle Memorial Institute, which he identifies as the meeting place for Majestic 12.

Cosmic Top Secret Documents and Government Agreements

Wolf discusses classified documents, explaining that "COSMIC" is a shorthand for classifications like UMBRA, WINTELL, or WINNITELL, and that "KEYSTONE" is also part of this hierarchy. He confirms seeing documents such as "Accertamenti NATO" and "Rapporti Blue Border".

He insists that the US government has had agreements with aliens, possibly involving the exchange of technology for the seizure of people and the collection of sperm and eggs. He notes that these agreements would not be public knowledge as they would violate the Constitution.

Wolf suggests that agreements might not be with a single alien group, and he describes the 'grays' he has encountered as having skin similar to dolphins, being docile and wanting to be touched. He addresses the trauma experienced by abductees, explaining it as a natural reaction to being thrust into an unknown and overwhelming environment.

Public Disclosure and Editorial Stance

Dr. Wolf believes it is time to make the truth public and has offered a book to benefit children, with no personal financial gain. He discusses a rumored government announcement about UFOs in October 1996, suggesting a deliberate release of information, where truth is presented as lies to make it more believable.

The magazine's editorial stance, expressed by G.V., is highly skeptical of Dr. Wolf's claims. The editor questions the credibility of the story, particularly the idea of spaceships crashing due to Earth's weather conditions and the assertion that the Santilli film is authentic. The editor suggests that Wolf might be an unwitting pawn in a staged event or a convincing liar, concluding that he is neither a top-tier liar nor the most important ufological figure of the last 50 years. The piece ends with a call for caution against promoting such narratives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around government cover-ups of UFO phenomena, alien technology, the Roswell incident, and the potential for alien-human interaction and hybridization. The editorial stance is one of profound skepticism, questioning the veracity of Dr. Wolf's claims and suggesting the possibility of a deliberate misinformation campaign or a staged event. The magazine highlights the controversial nature of the Santilli autopsy film and the complex web of alleged government secrecy and alien contact.