Ask the Scholar
Document scope · 1 page
Scholar
Ask about this object, its catalog metadata, its source description, or the page inventory.
For page-specific OCR and visual context, open one of the page chats.
Scholar Source Context
Document identity
localId
471800960
label
1966: Unidentified Flying Objects, November - December (folder B48-32)
core
doc
dtoType
document
citationUrl
pageCount
1
Source metadata
id
471800960
contentType
document
title
1966: Unidentified Flying Objects, November - December (folder B48-32)
citationUrl
collections
Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers
Legislative Issues Files
subjects
Unidentified flying objects
thumbnailUrl
largeImageUrl
imageCount
1
hasImages
yes
source
import
hasTranscription
no
Source extras
naId
471800960
coverageEndDate
logicalDate
1966-12-01
month
12
year
1966
coverageStartDate
logicalDate
1966-11-01
month
11
year
1966
levelOfDescription
fileUnit
recordType
description
ocrSource
nara-archive
Single page context
seq
1
pageIndex
0
type
document
mediaId
54f583e43c9bce48
ocrText
The original documents are located in Box B48, folder "1966: Unidentified Flying Objects
(folder 32)" of the Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers at the
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald Ford donated to the
United States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives
collections. Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in
the public domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are
presumed to remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject
to a valid copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
1966: Unidentified Flying Objects, November - December
(folder B48-32)
Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
"U.F.O."
(GILBERT, Violet)
legislative
re: petiton to LBJ
November 26, 1966
Mrs. Violet Gilbert
1230 Garden Street
Santa Barbara, California 93103
Dear Mrs. Gilbert:
I have your recent letter and the copy of the petition which you
samt to President Johnson and others relative to Unidentified
Flying Objects.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
I appreciated having your petition and the benefit of your views
on this subject.
Once again, my thanks for your time and courtesy in witting me
as you did.
Kindest regards.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford, M. C.
GRF:pc
art
1230 Garden St
Santa Barbara, Calif. 93103
November 11, 1966
The Honorable Gerald R. Ford
House Minority Leader
The House of Representatives
Washington D.C.
Dear Congressman Ford,
It is our hope and request that the enclosed petition will become the
nucleus or beginning for new laws in the Congress and Senate for a full and
free flow of information to the public on Space a two way space approach
is very badly needed. The Air Force has written a letter to proponents of
this two-way space approach and new laws saying: "this petition and request
is beyond the capability of the Air Force. It is recommended that you take
this up with your Representatives in Congress." This is what we are doing
and have asked for. This is more than the Air Force handling of UFO information.
The problem is lack of laws for such and true representation of the peoples
interest in the Congress and the National government.
Please take this up as rapidly as possible so that America may fulfill her
true stature in the Space program and true Space approach.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
Great meanings of value and interest to the entire civilization are involved.
Most sincerely, Violet Gilbert
Violet Gilbert
Director of Cosmic Research Center
Santa Barbara, Calif.
Thank you on your action in Congress in the House A med Services Committee which
has now resulting in the Air Force consession for studies by independent University
of Colorado on Unidentified sightings. We need to bear witness to the fact that
while old sightings have not been identified from years past, new ones are occuring
every few days which are 'not identified' either. We will encourage you to continue
to press for full and adequate action in the Congress and Government for the full
facts to be made known.
PETITION
TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
MEMBERS OF CONGRESS, PERTINENT AGENCIES.
WHEREAS:
Space is a TWO WAY Approach, we are impeding the flow of information
Dithout full recognition of these facts.
WHEREAS:
Billions of dollars of expenditures are involved in our Space effort.
We may find great tax savings by a free flow of information.
WHEREAS:
With proper recognition of the "TWO WAY" approach, we may get AN ASSIST
from those already 'in Space'.
WE PETITION FOR:
1. Establish National Laws for going to and from Space and provide protection
for all who are not inimical to the nation, it's interest and growth and
the good of the civilization.
2. Establish a National Source for FREE FLOW of Information to the Public.
3. Establish a National Board of Inquiry for Collation of ALL SPACE MATERIAL.
4. Establish a NEW CABINET POST to deal with SPACE MATTERS and Space Visitation
5. Gear the National effort toward success on all matters dealing with Space
by colperation of Officialdom and the Public
6. Establish Engineering Circles, College and Public Schools Copperation,
PHOTOC OPY FROM GERALD FORD I IBRARY
Student Councils and Study Groups to develop a nationwide two way Space Effort.
Kowledgeable people are able to cope with reality! 1
NAME
ADDRESS
CITY AND STATE
ZIP CODE
HerschelDueker
1230 Garden St
Santa Barbara, Calif.
93104
Orletha I Varner
1524 Olive St
Santa Barbara, Galif.
93101
Montford W. Smith
202 Shady Lane
Ojai, Calif.
93023
Florence Ruquor
222 La Jolla Dr
Santa Barbara, Calif.
93105
Frank E. Denison
648 Roberts Ave
Santa Barbara, Calif.
93105
Alva F. Denison
If
#
11
Santa Barbara, Calif.
93105
Muriel J. Engle
1813 La Caronilla Dr
Santa Barbara, Calif.
93105
Della R. Overnack
1015 E Dela Guerra
Santa Barbara, Calif.
93103
Charles Butera
1336 State St
Santa Barbara, Calif.
Hal Ladwig
1500 Mission Canyon Rd
Santa Barbara, Calif.
93105
Violet Gilbert
135 So Satinas
Santa Barbara, Calif. 93103
Copy of Original
Willet Delbert
Violet Gibbert
1230 Garden St
Santa Barbara, Calif, 93103
UTO.
November 18, 1966
Mrs.William V. Evans
642 Burgin Avenue.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70808
Dear Mrs. Evans:
Replying to your letter of November 16th 1 am pleased to send
you copies of the two shatments on made on Unidentified Flying
Objects.
You will note that the dates of these releases is March and Thank
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
have not made any statement since than. For additional information on UFO's
you may want to write Maj. Donald E. Keyhoe, Director, National Investi-
gations Committee onAerial Phenomena, 1536 Connecticut Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C.
Sincerely,
Gerald R.Ford.M.C.
GRF:ak
Encl.
642 BURGIN AVENUE
BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA
70808
16 NOVWMBER 1966
CONGRESSMAN GERALD R. FORD
UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
WASHINGTON D. C.
Dear Congressman Ford:
Last evening I attended a program given by Dr. Frank E.
Stranges. During the program we were told that we could secure
a copy of a "NEWS RELEASE ON U.F.O'S" F. by writing to you.
Would you please send a copy of your "NEWS RELEASE ON U.F.O'S"
to me at the following address:
MRS. WM. W. EVANS
642 BURGIN AVENUE
BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA 70808
I would appreciate any additional information which you
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
can supply about the U.F.O.
SINCERELY,
Laverne Puper Evans
MRS. WM. W. EVANS
642 BURGIN AVENUE
BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA 70808
U.F.O.
RM
November 18, 1956
Mrs. RM, Cooter, Jr.
766 Longwood Drive
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70806
Dear Mrs. Cooter:
Replying no your letter of November 16th I am pleased to send you
two statements I made on Unidentiffed Flying Objects. If you wish
additional Information or this subject you may want to write to
Maj. Donald E. Keyhoe, Director, National Investigations Committee
on Aerial Phenomena, 1536 Connecticut Avenue N.M. Washingtomp.D.C.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
Kindest personal regards,
Sincerely,
Gerald R. R.Ford.M.C.
GRF:ak
Encl.
November 16, 1966
IN
70N3
Representative Gerald Ford
House of Representatives
Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:
Would you please send me any information
you might have on Unidentified Flying Objects.
I would appreciate hearing from you as
soon as possible.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
Sincerely,
Mrs. R. M. Coots, J.
Mrs. R. M. Cooter, Jr.
766 Longwood Drive
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70806
Leg Grove, UFO. Chee
November 18, 1966
Mr. C.Lee Graves
685 Sunset Boulevard
Baton Rouge, Douisiana
Dear Mr. Graves:
Replying to your letter of November 16th, I am pleased to send
you a copy of a statement on UFO's which 1 made this past
spring. 1 am also enclos ing a booklet on Unidentified Flying
Objects which I thought you might like to have.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
Kindest personal regards.
Sincerely,
Gerald R.Ford.M.C.
GRF:ak
Encl.
November 16, 1966
Representative Gerald Ford
House of Representatives
Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:
checkfile file
Would you please send me any information
you might have on Unidentified Flying Objects.
I would appreciate hearing from you as
soon as possible.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
Sincerely,
C.Lu Lave
Mr. C. Lee Graves
685 Sunset Boulevard
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
LEGISLATIVE
UFO
(BARROW, R.)
RE: NICAP
November 11, 1966
Mr. Robert Barrow
4167 Cleveland Road
Syracuse, New York 13215
Dear Mr. Barrow:
Thank you for your recent letter containing
your comments on Air Force Regulation
80-17. I appreciate having your remarks
and assure you they do not go unheeded.
Kindest personal regards.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I :BRARY
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford, M. C.
GRF/jb
-
4167 Cleveland Road
Syracuse, N.Y. 13215
October 14, 1966
Dear Mr. Ford:
Please excuse this addition
to my accompanying letter. I
did not have enough space re-
maining to tell you that you
may consider my comments as
public information and you may
quote anything you believe
important. I have no objections
if you wish to use my name in
connection with this letter.
Sincerely,
RobertBarron
Robert Barrow
Member, NICAP
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
VFU
4167 Cleveland Road
Syracuse, New York 13215
October 14, 1966
Congressman Gerald R. Ford
Congress of the United States
Office of the Minority Leader
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C.
Dear Mr. Ford:
Thank you for passing along to me a copy of
Air Force Regulation 80-17 (re unidentified flying
objects). I realize how busy you are and I'm real-
ly grateful that you have often taken the time to
answer my letters and send me information on UFOs.
You may be sure that this material is put to im-
mediate use, and is helpful in better answering
a few occasional letters I receive pertaining to
UFO's and the status of the AF investigation.
Having read AFR 80-17, I would like to take
the liberty of letting you know a few of my com-
ments on the document (which, as I gather from the
Air Force letter from Colonel Bryce Poe II that ac-
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD BRARY
companied the Regulation, is taking the place of
AFR 200-2, the original AF order on UFO investigat
tion).
In my opinion, this Regulation is not real-
ly as revised or different from AFR 200-2 as we
have been told.
In last April 5th's Congressional hearing on
UFO's, according to NICAP, the following discover-
ies were made; (1) Some UFO's the Air Force public-
ly claimed were identified actually are unexplained.
(2) The Air Force hypothesis that all UFO's have
ordinary explanations may be an error, causing new
scientific information to be overlooked. (3) Six
prominent scientists, asked by the Air Force to
review the UFO program, criticized the Air Force for
not scientifically exploring unexplained sightings.
Keeping these three points in mind, and real-
izing that the third point is mainly responsible
for the Air Force's new plan of having non-AF teams
investigate UFO's, I was somewhat surprized to see
that the first thing the Air Force did in its new
Regulation 80-17 was to (as in AFR 200-2) restate
the same old stale lines about most UFOs being ex-
plained and how #
if more immediate, detailed,
and objective data on the unidentifieds had been
available and promptly reported, perhaps these, too,
could have been identified. =
Is this the proper introduction for what is supposed
to be a new scientific investigation of UFO's. As
usual, the Air Force is going on the theory (and
this theor y will undoubtedly have an influence on
the selected civilian investigators) that UFOs are
only misrepresentations of conventional objects.
Because the Congressional hearing disclosed that
AF "explained" UFOs may still be unidentified, and
because the Air Force was criticized for lack of
scientific method, I find it discouraging to see
that the Air Force is still hanging on to its old
theories. If the USAF is allowed to continue its
attempts to discount UFOs before any investigation
of worth is undertaken, you can bet that the civil-
ian scientists and universities involved are go-
ing to be somewhat partial to this "conventional ex-
planation" theory which is continuously pounded in-
to American heads by the Air Force. The scientific
investigation is off to a bad start, and, because
the Air Force has decided to put down UFOs now, be-
fore any substantial research is done by the new
teams, I fear that tax money for this project will
be spent for a partially biased investigation.
As you know, there are already many scien-
tists who have spoken out against UFOs because they
just don't understand the subject, and the Air Force's
present agreement with their statements of ridicule
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
will certainly seem, to the public, to lend credence
to the "no such thing as a UFO" theory. If the tax-
payers are about to put forth their money for what
is still described as a "scientific investigation, =
I will eat the proverbial hat!
Just as before, it appears that the Air Force
will still be keeping a clamp on its own men who hap-
pen to observe UFOs. In AFR 80-17: (Section B, num-
ber 4.) "Air Force members not officially connected
with UFO investigations covered by this regulation
will refrain from any action or comment on UFO re-
ports which may mislead or cause the public to con-
strue these opinions as official Air Force findings."
Obviously, the vague nature of this statement
will place restrictions on Air Force UFO observers
and the ld"muzzle" will, therefore, be in existence
and the Air Force will still have a way of keep-
ing UFO information from the public, and possibly
from the civilian investigating panel, due to "sec-
urity, If or some similar classification.
And here's one of the most interesting things
I have observed about this new regulation. In the
AFR 200-2, dated 14 September, 1959, there is a
statement ordering that
=
information régarding a
sighting may be released to the press or the gen-
eral public by the commander of th e Air Force base
concerned only if it has been positively identified
as a familiar or known object." I have underlined part
of this statement because this portion was italicized
in AFR 200-2, as though of particular importance.
However, in the new, "revised" regulation 80-
17, this statment is still present, except altered
somewhat, But it's certain that the same meaning is
present. Please compare the following with the above
quote from 200-2: "In response to local inquiries re-
garding UFOs reported in the vicinity of an Air Force
base, the base commander may release inf ormation to
the news media or the public after the sighting has
been positively identified." In this statement, the
emphatical word "only"has been ommitted, but the
same order for base commanders is there: they can-
not tell the public about a UFO sighting in their
area unless it is established to be a conventional
object. Therefore, the public is still kept "in the
dark" about various UFO reports, and the "scientific
investigation" appears to be lessening in scientific
intent or method.
Just a word, if I may, on the answers to my
questions on the new investigation that you receiv-
ed and forwarded to me (Air Force letter to you
was dated September 26, and written by Colonel Bryce
Poe II, USAF). My last question was "Will military
personnel and pilots, commercial airlines pilots,
and civilian pilots now affected, due to official
orders, by the above mentioned regulation and or-
ders, be allowed to repor t their sightings in pub-
lic, instead of reporting only in secret (under threat
of court-martial) only to their superiors?" The answer
given by the AF mentioned how the Secretary of the
Air Force would release UFO information to the pub-
lic, and that newsmen, writers, etc. were always giv-
en access to UFO files and given permission to re-
lease some unofficial UFO information---but not one
thing was mentioned about Air Force and commercial
pilots being allowed to report their sightings in
public without fear of court-martial.
Therefore, after observing a few of the aspects
resulting from the April hearings on UFOs, I am forced
to conclude that the revised investigation method will
be of little worth in determining what UFOs actually
are. It is impossible for a panel of scientists to
remain objective as long as it is assisted by the Air
Forc e, which obviously intends to keep downgrading
UFOs and discounting the possibility that they may
be of an intelligently-controlled nature. How could
a scientific panel keep an open mind under such con-
ditions.
Again, thank you for writing and sending the
regulation to me.
Sincerely, Robert Barrow Robert
Robert Barrow
Member, NICAP
LEGISLATIVE
UFO
(KONLEY, R. G.)
RE: LETTERS
November 11, 1966
Mr. Raymond G. Konley
1815 East Newbarry Boulevard, Apt. E
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211
Dear Mr. Konley:
Thank you for your recent letter enclosing
a copy of another letter that you wrote
to Major Quintanilla. I appreciate your
making this material available to me, and
I am sure that it may prove useful in the
future.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
Kindest personal regards.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford, M. C.
GRF/jb
RAYMOND G. KONLEY
1815 E. Newbarry Blvd., Apt.E
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211
UFO
(HONDRABLE) GERALD R. FORD
OCTOBER 8, 1966
CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
WASHING TON, D.C.
Dear Congressman Ford:
Here is a very good letter for your
records on U.F.O. on the air Forces' official position-in writting-
This "Bluebook"letter is a photocopy of
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD BRARY
a letter from Maj. Hector Quintanilla n. of "Project Bluebook,
in answer to letter dsenth him olong with a photo-
copy of a article taken from "Saga", "magazine, Sept. issue
1966 about on interview maj. Donald E. Keyhoe had with
"Saga" on M.F.O.A I felt it necessary to make my letter
strong enough to "Bluelook"- in order to get as fulla
reply out of them as possible. abohere so a handwriten
copy of a letter I sent to Bhebook" on Sept. 19, 1966.
di sincerely hope that you, will be able to use this as future
reference materialin the fight to getting the whole truth
about M.F.O.Rold the the public.
Sincerely,
Copy:of letter sent
RAYMOND G. KONLEY
1815 E. Newbarry Blvd., Apt.E
to "Phichooh"
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211
HECTOR QUINTANILLA JR.
SEPTEMBER 19,1966
A.T.I.C.
WRIGHT PATTERSON, A.F.B.
DATON, OHIO
Dear Maj. Quintavilla
you may be able to tell the general
public that there just isn't anything tothi M.F.O. business,
hutsooner or lates, you will hove to answer to (N.I.C.A.P.).
What you have to say on this subject; neither Answers or
clairifies the air Forces' position about M.F.O., because
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
there is just to much evidence to the contray. It and
when these proven. unknown M.F.O. hele decide to make
a few, or even massed landings in ornearpopulated
centers; you are going to have to do-some.tall
explaining so to why you are lying for solong, and you
or somlone like you, will have been, made complete
fools of, and that includes the president. you certainly
mustrealize thatan uninformed public willponic
for worse than an informedpublic will If the, would
can accept the atom lomb withoutmost panic, they
certainly can accept the truth about these M.F.O.A of
pronen unknown origin, because of your officialposition
and statements that these M.F.O.Tdo, not pose theator danger
to the national security ect
Copy. letter sent to
(PAGE 2)
Bliebook Sept. 19, 1964,
you, make comfortable references to certain scientists
to back lut how about the scientists
who believe the opposite - such as, Dr. Herman
Oberth of Huntsville. Alabama! Maj. Quintonilla,
time is, running out, and with each cover upotory you
try to explain away these pronen unknown M.F.O.2-
the deeper you are going tole involvedin trapping
yourself into a situation you will not be able to
get out of when the chips are all down, and the
"Proof" you ore waiting for is wrightender your nose
Thois inevitable, and itwill hoppen. I am not blament
you outright, because l. know hotit to have to
sake you realize what jou are letting yourself infor. you
follow corders, or lose onesjob, batol. hope for
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD BRARY
What about this! Do. you wish to she "Sago" magozine,
premain sibutro-usual? This is what you boys are
going tole up against or long there one
once of the free press in this country.
ATTACHMENT
MAJ. HECTOR QUINTANILLA JR.
Sincerely,
Copy. OF "SAGA" MAGAZINE
ARTICLE by MAJ. (U.S.M.C. RET.)
Baymond
DONALD E. KEYHOE.
FTD (TDETR)
Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433
3 October 1966
Raymond G. Konley
1815 East Newbarry Boulevard
Apartment 'E'
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211
Dear Mr. Konley,
Reference your letter of 19 September 1966. My position and that of the
Air Force regarding UFOs are in agreement. We have absolutely no evidence
what so ever which would indicate that UFO reports represent extraterres-
trial vehicles under intelligent control. The burden of proof should be
placed on those groups or individuals who claim that UFOs are extraterres-
trial vehicles. I am not afraid that the President or I will ever be called
fools because of such a claim. Let those individuals who claim that UFOs
are flying saucers come forward with the evidence.
As far as answering the challenge, this was done before the Full House
Armed Services Committee on 5 April 1966. Our answers regarding UFOs can
be found in the Congressional Record.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
For every scientist who believes that UFOs are extraterrestrial vehicles,
you will find nine others who believe just the opposite. That's a pretty
big majority, don't you think?
As far as magazine articles are concerned, this is still a free country
and articles on every subject will continue to be written. The fact that
articles are written on a subject does not mean that the statements are
true. Facts and statements can be twisted according to the whim of the
writer. As far as suing somebody, you cannot very well do this unless
someone slanders you in some way.
I'm still waiting for that alleged UFO to land as you state in your let-
ter. People have been observing UFOs since at least 593 B.C., so I'm not
worried that people will panic because of such observations.
By the way, I have read Frank Edwards' book and I think he does an excel-
lent job of story telling. This is my own personal opinion and not the
Air Forces'.
Sincerely,
HECTOR
Major, USAF
Chief, Project Blue Book
LEGISLATIVE
"UFO"
(SCOTT, R. F.)
(Re: UFO invest.)
December 30, 1966
Mr. R. F. Scott
P. 0. Box 115
Lamar, Arkansas 70846
Dear Mr. Scott:
Thank you for your letter of December 21 and the enclosures regarding
the UFO situation.
As your letter indicated, I had called for an investigation of this
matter in the spring. Enclosed are my news releases in this regard
which I thought might interest you.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
You may know that the University of Colorado has been awarded a
contract to conduct an independent study of the unexplained sightings.
In case you were not aware of this, copies of the releases I have
received concerning this study are enclosed.
I am afraid that it will be some time before the results of this
investigation will be known to the public. This is the only inves-
tigation that I know of that is going on at the present time to
clarify the mystery surrounding these sightings.
Kindest regards.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford, M. C.
GRF:1r
Enc.
Rep. 7 and
Dec. 21, 1966
In the may 66 issue of understanding
magazine (Pageb) is the following
paragraph under the title UFO sightings
anote Representative send 7 and, Pr. much,
has requested a Congressional investigation
of the ortuation as many michigan recidente
feel the incidents " sufficient to justify
some action by our government" In a
radio - tilevision program Rep. 7 and said,
7 once and 3 a.s.a., have them inter-
"Bring out there instruction from the air
rogated by members of House or Senate
committee, let them put their records on
the line Set there people who have alley
edly seen these objects come f teching "end of quote
It is time the government releared to
the people the imformation about UFO is
the have the right to know
B eople only fear that which they do,
not understand
1 am rending you excepts from 4
books On 7 lying Saucer (UFO₂) which
1 have obtained the part year. also 3
space Craft photos.
J myself have not seen a lying
Saver as yet J have talked to several
persons who have
Sincerely
or. 7. Scott
P.D. Boy 115
Lamar, ank. 74846
LEGISLATIVE
"UFO"
(ACUFF, NOEL)
Re: UFO Investigation
December 30, 1966
Ms. Noel Acuff
Box 651
New Johnsonville, Tennessee 37134
Dear Ms. Acuff:
Thank you very much for your thoughtful letter of December 27 in
connection with the UFO situation.
As the news article you enclosed indicated, I had called for an
investigation of this matter in the spring. Enclosed are my
news releases in this regard.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
I imagine you know that the University of Colorado has been awarded
a contract to conduct an independent study of the unexplained
sightings. In case you were not aware of this investigation, copies
of the releases I received concerning this study are enclosed.
I am afraid that #t will be some time before the results of this
investigation will be known to the public. This is the only inves-
tigation that I know of that is going on at the present time to
clarify the myetery surrounding these sightings.
Thank you also for your kind personal comments. We enthusiastically
welcome the new Members Baker and Kuykendall to the Congress and
hope for great progress within the Republican ranks during the upcoming
90th Congress.
Warmest regards.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford, M. C.
GRF:1r
Enc.
December 27, 1966
Congressman Gerald Ford
House Office Building
Washington, D.C.
Dear Congressman Ford:
Enclosed is a news article dated last April, in which is stated that you
asked Congressman .Mendal Rivers, as chairman of the House Armed Services
Committee, to conduct an investigation on Unidentified Flying Objects. The
report further states that Congressman Rivers directed the Air Force Chief
of Staff and Air Force Secretary to meet with him to discuss these UFO reports
and sightings, many which occurred in your state of Michigan.
I watched the newspapers and television news reports closely, but I have never
seen a single item pertaining to the outcome of this meeting. The answers given
were no doubt satisfactory to Congressman Rivers and yourself.
Congressman Ford, this thing has been going on for about twenty years now,
and many of us are deeply concerned about it. Unless there is a sound reason
for keeping it secret, the American people should be told about it. I realize
that many things must be kept secret in the interest of national security, but
I believe that other things are stamped secret for the sake of secrecy alone,
or to cover up gross mismanagement, which has seemed so prevalent in the present
Administration. Many of us do not know what to believe about these UFO's and
our Governments unwillingness to enlighten us on the matter. It could be that we
are under the gun, and our Goverment has no choice but to keep us in the dark.
On the other hand, they may be no threat at all. They may actually be our own
weapons, which I want to believe, but seriously doubt. Else why are we spending
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
billions to hoist heavy loads into orbit in a manner which must be considered
crude when compared to the reported capabilities of these unidentified machines.
Anything that you can tell me about the outcome of the discussion about these
UFO's will be greatly appreciated.
I have watched your work intthe Congress and it is refreshing to know that we
have a man of your stature as House Leader. We are sending two capable young men,
Baker and Kuykendall, to the Senate and House respectively, who will be working
with you.
My very best regards and best wishes to you, Congressman Ford.
Yours Truly
Noel Acuff
Box 651
New Johnsonville, Tennessee
37134
noel Queff
Session Promises Congress
Glimpse Of Flying Saucers
WASHINGTON, April 2.-(UPI)-The hearing won't be
public and it won't be long but it probably will be the closest
Congress will get to an investigation of flying saucers.
I
It will take place on Tuesday when Air Force brass will
huddle with members behind the closed doors of the House
e
Armed Services Committee.
Committee Chairman L. Mendel Rivers (D., S. C.) last
week directed Air Force Secretary Harold Brown and
1
Gen. John P. McConnell, Air
Force chief of staff, to come
might be "substance" to some
prepared Tuesday to answer
of the reports and that the
1
questions about the latest rash
public was entitled to a more
of unidentified flying object
thorough explanation than
(UFO) sightings.
given up to now by the Air
Force.
1
Expected to accompany
According to a member who
Brown and McConnell are
was there, both Brown and Mc-
-
officials connected with Pro-
Connell assured the committee
ject Bluebook, the Air Force
unit that has been recording
there was nothing mysterious
-
and trying to explain the more
about the sightings but that
r
S
than 10,000 UFO reports since
they would be glad to discuss
h
it began operating in 1947.
them at greater length on
S
The committee made it plain
Tuesday.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
IS
that this was not to be con-
ir
strued as a full-fledged
Crime Nipped Early
congressional investigation of
CORLEONE, Sicily, April 2.
11
the subject.
-(UPI)-Sicilian police said
f
"We just want to know if one
is required," said Rivers.
Saturday they have broken a
y
of
Brown and McConnell were
gang of nine-year-olds who
11
scheduled to appear Tuesday
were armed with explosives
S
anyhow to continue their
and a sawed-off shotgun and
testimony on next year's
led by the nephew of a mem-
e
defense budget. During a
closed session Thursday Rivers
ber of the Mafia. Police said
11
brought up flying saucers.
the four boys were caught
1
after they broke into a school
;
The chairman told the Air
and stole $89 from a classroom
e
Force officials that House
drawer. At the home of one
e
Republican Leader Gerald
$
Ford of Michigan, had asked
of the boys, whose uncle is
y
him to conduct an investiga-
a lieutenant of a jailed Mafia
r
tion. Ford acted as the result
leader, police found the shot-
of UFO reports from Michigan.
gun-trademark of the Mafia-
Ford said he thought there
and the explosives.
LEGI&LATIVE
"UFO's"
(PERKINS, LOWELL)
December 30, 1966
Mr. Lowell Perkins
3662 North Pine Grove
Chicago, Illinois 60613
Dear Mr. Perkins:
I wish to thank you for your letter of December 23 regarding the
UFO situation.
You are probably aware that I called for an investigation of this
matter in the spring. The enclosed release in answer to my news
releases is somewhat out of date now, as I imagine you know that
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
the University of Colorado has been awarded a contract to conduct
an independent study of the unexplained sightings.
I am afraid that it will be some time before the results of thes
investigation will be known to the public. This is the only
investigation that I know of that is going on at the present time.
Kindest regards.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford, M. C.
GRF:blr
Enclosures
Chicago, Illinois
December 23,1966
Dear Congressman rord,
Enclosed is a copy of what
I sent President Johnson. also
the reply and the book that
was sent back.
Their evasive reply does
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
prove the Norwegians were
giving facts. President Johnson
can be held personally
responsible for the present
policy.
Sincerely yours,
Lowell Perkins
3662 n. Pine Grove
Chicago, Il.60613
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20330
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
DEC 1 5 1966
Dear Mr. Perkins:
The President has asked that I reply to your recent
letter regarding the alleged censorship of reports of
unidentified flying objects (UFOs).
The Air Force does not withhold or censor any infor-
mation on UFOs. The results of all Air Force investigations
have always been made available to bona fide news represent-
atives and scientific researchers. Press releases are
issued as warranted, and an annual report on the project
is available to the public. A copy of this report,
Project Blue Book, is attached for your information.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
I hope this clarifies the Air Force position.
Sincerely,
WILLIAM E. POE, Colonel, USAF
Congressional Inquiry Division
Office of Legislative Liaison
2 Attachments
Mr. Lowell Perkins
3662 North Pine Grove
Chicago, Illinois 60613
Chicago, Illinois
November 20,1966
Dear President Johnson,
The part of the book I would
like to comment on is on page 45,
The Spitzbergen Island incident
proves that the U.S. government
has been habitually lying to the
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
public on this for over 10 years.
Why is it so impossible for the
officials in change to tell the people
the truth? Put in change someone
like "Chesty" Puller or General Shrever,
Sincerely yours,
Lowell Perkins
366 2 N, Pine Grove
00110/12
LEGISLATIVE
UFO
(SZYBOWICS, T.)
RE: CONG. INVEST.
December 22, 1966
Mr. Theo. Saybowicz
10166 Pelham Road
Taylor, Michigan 48180
Dear Mr. Szybowice:
I wish to thank you for your recent letter regarding UFOs. It is tube
that I called for an investigation, a congressional one, in the spring.
However 1 did not head up an investigation myself.
The enclosed release is somewhat out of date now, as I imagine you know
that the University of Colorado has been awarded a contract to conduct
an independent study of the unexplained sightings.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
In case you were not aware of this investigation, copies of the release
that 1 received regarding this study, are enclosed.
I am afraid that it will be some time before the results of this investi-
gation will be knowntoo the public. This is the only investigation
that I know of that I have had any connection with, that is going on at
the present time.
Thank you for your message of holiday greetings and I certainly hope
that you have a Merry Christmas.
Kindest regards.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford, M.C.
GRF:jb
enc.
I2-3-66
Hon. G. Ford BOND
House of Representitives
Minority Leader
Washington, D.c.
Dear Sir:
Adid not
Last summer you spearheaded an investigation
into the phenomena of U.F.O.'s or unidentified flying objects.
The outcome of this investigation was to the best of my knowledge
never made public. Would you be so kind as to give me some kind of
answer as to the final conclusion.
May I take this opportunity to wish you and
yours a very Merry Christmas and a prosporous and healthy New Year
Respectfully
Theo Szybowicz
10166 Pelham Rd.
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD'FORD I BRARY
Paylor, mich 48180
If Every passing hour brings the Solar System forty-three
thousand miles closer to Globular Cluster M-I3 in Hercules
and still there are those who insist that there is no such thing as
progress"
LEGISLATIVE
UFO
(KEOGH, P.)
RE:
December 28, 1966
Mr. Patrick Keogh
8 Richards Avenue
Oneonta, New York
Dear Patrick:
Thank you for your recent letter requesting free information on "flying
saucers." I appreciate your thinking of writing me on this, perhaps because
of the statements that I made this pastywear calling for a Congressional in-
vestigation of UFOs.
Unfortunately I do not have much free information that I can send you. I am
enclosing copies of all the statements that I made, and I hope they will be
useful, but I have made no attempt to collect material on UFOs or take pic-
tures of them myself because I have been pretty busy with my other duties as
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
a Congressman, and as Minofity Leader of the House of Representatives. I
hope you will understand my laxity in this regard.
However, I do, from time to time, receive information that others have sent
to me. Since my other work keeps me quite busy, I do not always have time
to read or even look at this material myself. Enclosed is a copy of a book
which I have received: Flying Saucers--Serious Business. I know nothing about
this book as it was sent to me unsolicited but I thought you might like to have
it. You will note inside the cover are paperclipped some pictures of flying
saucers. I know nothing about these pictures and could not tell you whether
they are real or not, but again I thought you would like to have them as you
asked for photographs. If you will look in the appendix, in the back of this
bobk, you will find other sources to write to for more information.
I hope this will be useful to you.
Kindest regards.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford, M.C.
GRF:jb
enc.
8 Richards are.
Onconta N.Y.
December11,1966
Dear Sir:
May l plase have
some free information on
the subject Dying saucers.
l am very deeply impressed
about ufo's. l have seen
FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
flying soucers before they
are very intresting to look
at l reed upo storios every
PHOTO
chance I get. When you send
me some information if
you got some clear pictures
of upo's could I please have
a couple of pitures of some
ufo's l would like to
take the pictures to
school and the informa-
tion. l you could could
you send me a list of
people and address of
people I can write to sod
l can write to them for
some more information.
p strick Peogn
Sincerely Yours
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
LEGISLATIVE
UFC
(WRISS, S.)
RE: UFO
December 29, 1966
Mr. Michael Weiss
6638 N. Fairfield
Chicago, Illinois 60645
Dear Mike:
Thank you for your letter of December 24 about UFOs requesting some infor-
mation in the form of a quick reply. I'll give it to you about as quick
as I can, Mike.
I can not sent information about what was sighted in Michigan last year
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
as I have none. However I am enclosing copies of the press releases
that I made at that time which have been retained. I asked the House to
explore this matter because many people were concerned about it.
I was not turned down, but the hearings that were held were short in
duration--unfortunately printed copies of those hearings are no longer
available. I think as a result of my request, however, it was decided
DO conduct the investigation that is described on the enclosed Air Force
press releases.
As far as my opinion as to whether the Government is hiding facts on UFOs,
my press releases state my feelings on this.
Kindest regards.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford, M.C.
GRF:jb
enc.
Dec. 24, 1966
Dear Rep. Ford,
of ana doing a science project and report on
"are Flying Sancers Real" for higheschool . I am.
very interested in this subjectand d was hoping. you
could send me information on what happened in your
state last year when all the U.F.O. sightings were reported,
d would like to know why you asked the House to explore
the matter of G.F.O. 's and why you wereturned down
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD BRARY
and d would do also like to know your opinion on "floging sancers; ))
facts on the U.F.O.'s,
you think the U.S. government is hiding important
Thank you very much,
Michael Weiss
P.S. I would appreciate a quick reply.
MICHAEL WEISS
6638 N. FAIRFIELD
CH ICAGO, ILL, 60645
LEGISLATIVE
UFOS
(NADAN, P.)
RE: ADVANCE COPY or
REPORT
December 20, 1966
Mr. Paul Nadan
Associate Editor
Crown Publishers, Inc.
419 Park Avenue South
New York, New York 10016
Dear Mr. Nadah:
Thank you for your letter of December 9 providing wätvith a copy
of the reply you received from Dr. Condon's office telling you,
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
regarding your request for an advance copy of the report on UFOs,
that ft is expected that the report will be released to the public
after review by the National Academy of Sciences and that en early
copy cannot be promised.
You csk in your letter what is your next DOVE or mine. I
am
afraid that our next move will have to be that of UB weiting until
the report has been reviewed by the National Academy of Sciences.
Kindest regards.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford, M.C.
GRF:jb
Telephone MURRAY HILL 5-8550
Cable Address LETOUT NEW YORK Y
Crown Publishers, INC.
419 PARK AVENUE SOUTH, NEW YORK, N. Y. 10016
December 9, 1966
Mr. Jim Bersie
Office of the Minority Leader
House of Representatives
Washington, D. C.
Dear Mr. Bersie:
I am following your advice in your October 26 letter to
me and providing you with the reply from Dr. Condon re-
garding their UFO future report. I think the enclosures
are self explanatory.
What Best wishes. is my next move, or yours? wait like everybody lise
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
Sincerely, "We wait 11
Pmelledor,
Paul Nadan
Associate Editor
PN/bh
enc. 2
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO
BOULDER, COLORADO 80302
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
November 30, 1966
Mr. Paul Nadan
Associate Editor
Crown Publishers, Inc.
419 Park Avenue South
New York, New York 10016
Dear Mr. Nadan,
Thank you for your letter to Dr. Condon concerning the report
of our UFO investigation. Permit me to reply.
It is expected that the report will be released to the public
after review by the National Academy of Sciences. I am afraid
that we cannot promise an early copy, but you may obtain it at that
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
time.
Thank you for your interest.
Sincerely yours,
RolanD Row
Robert J. Low
Project Coordinator
RJL:1bm
October 31, 1966
Dr. Edward U. Condon
University of Colorado
Boulder, Colorado
Dear Dr. Condon:
I should like to go on record at this time for a bid
to see an early copy of the report you are working on
in the area of UFO's for the Air Force.
I should appreciate your help in this, and whatever
advice you care to give.
With very best wishes, I am,
Sincerely,
PHOTOCOPY FROM GERALD FORD I BRARY
Paul Nadan
Associate Editor
PN/bh