Valor

Magazine Overview

Title: Valor
Subtitle: The Golden Times Weekly...
Volume: VIII
Issue: 13
Date: Saturday, January 22, 1955

This issue of Valor magazine, published in Noblesville, Indiana, presents a sensational cover story questioning whether a photograph depicts a 'monster' from Mars. The magazine delves into a purported encounter and photographic evidence provided by Cedric Allingham, who claims to have met an extraterrestrial visitor in Scotland.

Main Article: 'Monster' From Mars?

The lead article discusses humanity's long-standing fascination and fear of Martian invaders, tracing its origins to H. G. Wells and a notable radio broadcast by Orson Welles that caused public panic. The focus then shifts to a photograph allegedly taken by Cedric Allingham in Scotland on February 18, 1954. The image, provided by the British Book Centre, is said to show an interplanetary visitor returning to its space ship.

The article details the visitor's appearance: about six feet tall, wearing a single-piece garment, and a breathing gadget. Allingham recounts his attempt to communicate with the Martian using a diagram of the solar system. Through pointing to orbits and names, he deduced the visitor was not from Venus but from Mars, a conclusion that aligns with earlier theories by astronomers like Lowell regarding Martian canals.

Allingham describes the Martian's voice as having a 'limpid quality.' He also recounts a moment where the visitor seemed concerned about the possibility of war on Earth, a gesture that Allingham interpreted as a sign of the Martian's concern or understanding.

The magazine highlights that the British Book Centre is publishing Allingham's book, 'Flying Saucers from Mars,' on February 11th. An advance copy has been received by Valor, noting the book's 152 pages and its retail price of $2.75. The magazine asserts that the book, with its collection of photographs, aims to dispel the notion of Martians as 'monsters' equipped with destructive technology.

Related Content and Commentary

The issue also includes a brief mention of a similar spacecraft sighting in the Arizona desert in 1952, observed by Ric Williamson. The magazine praises Allingham's book, calling it one of the 'truly great books of the year' and essential for settling the public mind about the nature of extraterrestrial visitors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the possibility of extraterrestrial life and visitation, specifically from Mars. The magazine appears to lend credence to Cedric Allingham's account and photographic evidence, presenting it as a significant event that challenges popular, often fearful, depictions of aliens. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded inquiry into UFO phenomena, aiming to provide factual accounts and potentially debunk sensationalist fears, as suggested by the promotion of Allingham's book as a means to counter the 'monster' narrative.