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CUFONSM 4602d AISS UNIT HISTORY SAMPLER
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CUFONSM 4602d AISS UNIT HISTORY SAMPLER
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A SAMPLER OF ITEMS FROM THE UNIT HISTORY OF
{Guide Page 11} Squadron Guide 200-2 15 March 1955 PART VII ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS 1. Funding Of Costs The Funding Of Costs and the issuance of orders incident to the travel of 4602d personnel in connection with the investigation of UFOB's will be the responsibility of Headquarters, 4602d AISS. Field units will obtain approval from Headquarters, 4602d AISS, prior to conducting investigations involving travel, unless circumstances will not permit the delay necessary to obtain such approval. The modes of transportation authorized, in the order of their priority, in the event investigations must be conducted without prior approval of Headquarters, are: a. Military vehicle b. Military aircraft c. Commercial carrier d. Private automobile Requests for travel will be processed in accordance with Squadron Regulation 11-6. 2. Classification of Reports Reports will be unclassified unless inclusion of data required by paragraph 7d, AFR 200-2, dated 12 August 1954, necessitates a higher classification. 3. Filing of reports Field Units will file all UFOB reports or information pertaining thereto chronologically regardless of whether the reports are preliminary or follow-up. 4. Reports Control Symbol Reports prescribed herein are exempt from requirements of a Reports Control Symbol, in accordance with paragraph 7b(3), AFR 174-1. Guide ================================================================ { Guide Page 12 } Squadron Guide 200-2 15 March 1955 PART VIII REFERENCE MATERIAL In this section of the Guide will be contained those items of supplementary reference not elsewhere already included. These are: 1. Errors Frequently Committed in the Conduct of the UFOB Program (attached) 2. Locations of Flight Service Centers (attached) 3. Locations of Weather Stations (attached) 4. ATIC, "How to Make Flyobrpts" (attached) Guide ================================================================ {Unnumbered Page 1 of 3} Squadron Guide 200-2 15 March 1955 ERRORS FREQUENTLY COMMITTED IN THE CONDUCT OF THE UFOB PROGRAM It has been found, during the introductory period of the last six months, that certain errors in the conduct of the UFOB program tend to be frequently repeated. Most of the errors are not too serious; they point, rather, simply to a lack of indoctrination on the part of their personnel committing them. For the personnel of the 4602d, the list of common errors set forth below can serve as a check list against which to measure the results of their investigative efforts. beyond that, however, it is hoped that the inclusion also of the errors made by personnel outside of the 4602d will serve as a focal point for the efforts of our people to indoctrinate other Air Force Personnel in the procedures applicable to the conduct of the UFOB program. 1. Errors of Non-Air Force and Non-ADC Units a. Failure to conduct preliminary investigation b. Failure to submit preliminary report c. Submission of incomplete preliminary report d. Delay in submission of preliminary report e. Improper release of information to the public 2. Errors of ADC Units a. Preliminary stage (1) Failure to conduct preliminary investigation (2) Sending of raw information to 4602d unit, without preparing preliminary report (3) Submission of incomplete preliminary report (4) Delay in submission of preliminary report (5) Failure to submit preliminary report because the object is identified prior to time of (6) Failure to include the nearest Air Division to the sighting as a recipient of the preliminary (7) Failure to forward preliminary report to nearest 4602d unit ================================================================ {Unnumbered Page 2 of 3} Squadron Guide 200-2 15 March 1955 Errors of ADC Units (continued) b. Follow-up stage (1) Failure to logistically support 4602d units in the conduct of follow-up investigations (2) Failure to recognize the importance of speed in the logistical support of 4602d units (3) Improper release of information to the public 3. Errors of 4602d Units a. Preliminary stage (1) Evaluating raw data for the purpose of determining whether or not a preliminary report (2) Submission of incomplete preliminary report (3) Failure to send preliminary report received from other sources to Headquarters 4602d AISS (4) Failure to make arrangements with D/I for getting copies of electrical preliminary reports (5) Acceptance of D/I evaluation of preliminary report as a criterion for whether or not to b. Follow-up stage (1) Following up of UFOB report, at request of D/I, with no attempt to keep Hq informed (2) Failure to recognize the importance of speed in conducting follow-up investigation (3) Failure to make judicious use of telephone and mail (4) Improper release of information to the public (5) Non-collection of physical evidence (6) Non-forwarding of physical evidence to ATIC with sufficient speed (7) Failure to include a cover letter with physical evidence forwarded to ATIC (8) Failure to conduct an exhaustive effort: (a) Failure to follow up all possible leads (b) Failure to follow up the suggested leads of paragraph 5, AFR 200-2 (c) Cursory treatment of such leads as were followed up (d) Repeating of information already contained in preliminary report, with noting added (e) Acceptance of results of someone else's partial investigation as necessarily valid, with no (f) Leaving of questions obviously unanswered (g) Acceptance of hearsay evidence, with no effort to get at original source ================================================================ {Unnumbered Page 3 of 3} Squadron Guide 200-2 15 March 1955 Errors of ADC Units (continued) c. Final Reporting Stage (AF Form 112) (1) Inclusion of U S Air Force Technical Information Sheet, Form 5, verbatim in the Form 112, (2) Omission of part of data collected (3) Failure to show how the conclusions of the Preparing Officer are arrived at (4) Failure to prepare follow-up action on Form 112 (5) Unnecessary classification of reports (6) Signature block of Preparing Officer omitted from first and last pages of report (7) Failure of Preparing Officer to sign either first page or last page of report (8) Improper filling in of Date-of-Information block on first page of report blank (9) Failure to leave distribution block blank (10) Failure to properly list the Inclosures (11) Failure to place a classification, including "Unclassified", on the top and bottom of each (12) Failure to carbon-back Forms 112 (13) Failure to leave evaluation block on first page of report blank (14) Failure to properly number report (15) Failure to check report for spelling and grammar (16) Improper page-numbering of Form 112 sheets and Inclosures (17) Failure of the Preparing Officer to come to some conclusion about the evidence in the case (18) Failure to include a blank numbered page for "Comments of
Approving Officer", when ================================================================ {Unnumbered Page 1 of 1} FLIGHT SERVICE CENTERS Flight Service Area: Telephone No.: OLMSTEAD FLIGHT SERVICE CENTER Middletown 4681 MAXWELL FLIGHT SERVICE CENTER Montgomery LD 88 WRIGHT-PATTERSON FLIGHT SERVICE CENTER Fairborn 88691 CARSWELL FLIGHT SERVICE CENTER Pershing 7251 LOWRY FLIGHT SERVICE CENTER Dexter 3-5446 MARCH FLIGHT SERVICE CENTER Overland 40452 HAMILTON FLIGHT SERVICE CENTER Glenwood 42461 ================================================================ {Unnumbered Page} (The list of weather ================================================================ {Unnumbered Page} This page will be removed and replaced ================================================================ {Unnumbered Page 1 of 2} Background for Proposed Participation of ADC in Evaluating Reports of Unidentified Flying Objects - (UFOBs) 1. Air Force Concern for UFOB is two-fold: first, as regards a possible air threat to the security of the United States; and second, as regards the technical requirement for being able to explain all aerial phenomena, whether or not they represent a threat to the United States security. 2. Under the provisions of AFR 200-2, ATIC is presently assigned responsibility for analysis and evaluation of all reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOB) since ultimate explanation of UFOBs will depend on technical and scientific analysis. 3. The ADC mission establishes a direct interest in both aspects of Air Force concern for UFOBs and Comdr ADC is a required addressee on all UFOB reports transmitted by electrical means. 4. Experience has shown that only a relatively small percentage of reports received warrant technical and scientific evaluation. 5. The greater bulk of preliminary reports can be disregarded for various reasons, such as unreliability of observers, insufficient detail of observations, satisfactory explanation through correlation with known activities or phenomena. 6. ATIC, however, lacks the means for effecting preliminary screening of UFOB reports. ATIC has no field organization for on the spot investigation and must rely on other agencies for this. 7. Although ADC lacks the technical and scientific competence for the final evaluation of UFOBs, it does provide a nation-wide organization peculiarly adaptable to preliminary evaluation of UFOB reports. It possesses a comprehensive radar system, the machinery for rapid correlation of airborne objects with known aircraft flights, and a mobile intelligence collecting organization (4602d AISS). 8. Many UFOB reports are in fact originated by the air defense system and ATIC in now utilizing on a limited scale the field units of 4602d AISS for follow-up field investigations of UFOB reports. 9. On the occasion of a visit to Hq ADC in October 1953, Gen Garland, Chief ATIC, proposed that ADC assume a more active role in evaluation of AFOB reports. 10. DCS/I, ADC, accepted this proposal in principle, subject to amendment of AFR 200-2 and the detailed procedures required by that regulation and subject to an appropriate allocation of required resources - primarily personnel and money. ================================================================ {Page 2 of 2} Background (Contd) 11. At the time of a D/I USAF Staff Team Visit to ADCin November 1953, Col Ray W. McDuffee, Asst Chief, Technical Analysis Division, ATIC, reiterated Gen Garland's proposal and after discussion, the following was agreed. a. There should be a transfer of part of the UFOB examination function from ATIC to ADC. b. ADC's examination function would be assigned to the 4602d AISS. c. The squadron would send an officer to ATIC to study files and procedures. d. He would carry certain guidance directives from DSC/I, ADC, as a basis for reaching e. He would select the files that would be required to carry out this function. f. He would represent ADC in preparation of an ADC-ATIC agreed revision of AFR 200-2. THIS IS A TRUE COPY: /s/ 2 ================================================================ {Unnumbered Page 1 of 3} SUBJECT: FROM:
TO:
DATE: 1. This R&R establishes the scope of ADC participation in the evaluation of unidentified flying objects and provided guidance for discussions on resource requirements and for procedural change. Background is provided in the inclosure. 2. The proposed realignment of functions relating to UFOBs is to relieve ATIC of the burden for preliminary screening out of the great bulk of reports which are either too fragmentary to be evaluated or are explainable by known activities or phenomena. ATIC will necessarily continue to be concerned with the technical and scientific analysis of those reports which defy explanation by known facts. Thus, the ADC function is primarily one of preliminary screening. This will involve: a. The receipt by ADC of all UFOB reports and the provision to ATIC of screened reports only. b. The establishment of systematic procedures within ADC for correlating known flights in the area c. A procedure for field follow-up on reports requiring clarification or expansion. d. Authority for direct communication between the 4602d AISS and ATIC on UFOB matters. e. The maintenance of files, cross-reference, and graphical summaries by the 4602d. f. Procedures for receiving the results of ATIC analysis and evaluation of reports forwarded to g. Procedures for providing continuing technical and scientific guidance to the ADC screening 3. ADC's participation in the UFOB program over the past two years has varied somewhat. For example, in mid-1952 an effort was made to keep current with all reports and to maintain records on the ATIC evaluation as well as to undertake a preliminary ADC evaluation. This effort was time-consuming and tended to be superficial in its significance. this function was performed in the Air Technical Capabilities Division (Now Technical Analysis Division) of D/R&E. 4. The proposed active participation of ADC in the evaluation process might suggest a resumption of the D/R&E function. However, it is reiterated ================================================================ {Page 2 of 3} ADC Participation in Evaluating UFOB's (Contd) that the ADC role in the presently proposed program is that of screening out of explainable reports; ATIC will still have the function of analyzing and evaluating those reports which cannot be explained though preliminary field evaluation. Accordingly, there is no presently foreseen requirement for D/R&E participation in the evaluation and screening process except as this process may involve occasional recourse by the 4602d AISS to D/R&E for technical advise in specific instances. However, there is a requirement for detailed staff assistance by D/R&E in establishing the proposed function in the 4602d AISS. 5. Although the proposed ADC role in the UFOB evaluation problem will be focused in the 4602d AISS, that unit (a subordinate unit of the Air Defense Command) will require Hq ADC directives to insure the cooperation of the various ADC agencies that will be involved. These should be drafted by the 4602d AISS with careful attention to present ADC procedures and requirements of the primary ADC mission. They will require full ADC coordination and review before promulgation. D/R&E will provide DCS/I monitoring of this similar policy matters. 6. In developing a final and specific agreement for ADC assumption of responsibilities in the UFOB evaluation program, it will be necessary: a. To make a careful time-study analysis of the resultant functions and tasks. b. To determine what scientific assistance ATIC has been utilizing in its
preliminary evaluations of c. To carefully estimate added financial burdens resulting from such activities as temporary duty When personnel and financial requirements are established, the final agreement will provide for the allocation of the requisite manpower authorizations and budetary allotment to ADC. It is immaterial to ADC whether this allocation be made as a re-allocation from ATIC or as a direct allocation from Hq USAF. 7. The foregoing principles and other consider actions will guide the formulation of agreements with ATIC on re-allocation of responsibilities on the UFOB program, and the drafting of requisite directives. 8. The ADC representation to ATIC will consist of a representative of D/R&E and of the 4602d AISS. The former will have primary cognizance of ================================================================ {Page 3 of 3} ADC Participation in Evaluating UFOB's (Contd) policy matters and implications to the operation of the air defense system. The representative of the 4602d AISS will have primary cognizance of implications to squadron operation, manpower and monetary requirements. 9. A staff conference will be arranged with ATIC as soon as personnel involved are prepared in their respective areas of responsibility. Physical arrangements for the conference will be made by Comdr. 4602d AISS, in coordination with D/R&E. Incl W. M. Burgess THIS IS A TRUE COPY: /s/ 3 ================================================================ {Unnumbered Page 1 of 1} HEADQUARTERS 23 December 1953 Subject: ADC Participation in Evaluating UFOB's TO: OIC's 1. The enclosed R & R from Brigadier General W M Burgess and the background information on proposed participation of 4602d AISS and Field Units should be thoroughly read and understood. 2. This information is forwarded to Detachments and Flights to give an idea of their active participation in UFOB evaluation. 3. Appropriate Directives to Field Units will be disseminated upon completion of coordination between ATIC and a representative of Hq 4602d. 1 Incl
/s/ ================================================================ {Unnumbered Page 1 of 2} HEADQUARTERS AISOP SUBJECT: UFOB Investigating and Reporting TO Pending approval of ADC and 4602d AISS directives regarding UFOB investigation and reporting, field units will be guided strictly by AFR 200-2. TT MSG AISOP 1460, dated 30 Sep 1954, recent instructions contained in Weekly Bulletin, and this letter. Some Flight OIC's have been ill advised by Detachment OIC's regarding UFOB reporting. Detachment OIC's are directed to become familiar with reporting requirements in order to properly advise flights. Following are major points of misunderstanding: a. All Air Force Activities are responsible to submit preliminary reports covering all information and evidence relative to UFOBS that may come to their attention, including that received from adjacent commands of the other services and from civilians, and are authorized to conduct investigation necessary to preparation of the preliminary report. b. 4602d AISS field unit involvement in preliminary investigations is incidental and will be conducted according to local arrangements with ADC Division or Defense Force Commanders (DI's). (Reference 4602d AISS secondary mission contained in ADCR 24-4, paragraph 3b, and TT MSG AISOP 1460, dated 30 Sep 1954). c. AFR 200-2 requires that all information pertaining to a UFOB will be reported. This does not anticipate that evaluation of information by reporting Air Force element will result in failure to submit the preliminary report. d. Only if 4602d AISS field units receive initial information from an individual source or a non-Air force organization they are responsible under AFR 200-2 to prepare preliminary report. This responsibility is the same as that assigned to all Air Force elements. e. 4602d AISS elements are responsible to conduct all follow-up field investigations under direction and control of Commander, 4602d AISS. ================================================================ {Unnumbered Page 2 of 2} f. Preliminary reports will be submitted by reporting Air Force element, even though object is identified prior to submission of report. g. Provisions of ATIC Manual "How To Make FLYOBRPTS" will be disregarded, if in conflict with AFR 200-2, these, or above referenced instructions. Manual will be used only as a guide for investigative procedures. h. All UFOB reports on file at field units, dated subsequent to 13 August 1954, which have not been reported are basis for preliminary report. If information is more than 72 hours old, reports will be prepared on AF Form 112 and submitted in accordance with AFR 200-2, dated 14 August 1954. The preliminary reports will be prepared by 4602d AISS units and will not, in this case, be returned to the Air Force element from which the original information was received for submission of preliminary report, since the Air Force element receiving initial information of UFOB is responsible for preliminary report preparation. BY ORDER OF THE COMMANDER: /s/ ================================================================ {Unnumbered page 1 of 1} AIR TECHNICAL INTELLIGENCE CENTER SUBJECT: (U) Unidentified Flying Object Guide TO: Commander 1. Attached for your convenience is the "UFOB Guide" (Unidentified Flying Object Guide) which was prepared as a result of the conference held on 17 and 18 November 1954 between the commander and staff of the 4602d AISS and personnel of ATIC. 2. The "UFOB Guide" is divided into two parts. Part I contains the criteria for use in determining the feasibility of making follow-up investigations. Part II contains hypotheses or examples for use in identifying the objects or phenomena reported. 3. It is suggested that, after a reasonable period of use, a Part III be added to the "UFOB Guide" incorporating the definitions and procedures as agreed upon in the conference and as outlined in your letter subject "Report of Visit of ATIC Representatives" dated 23 November 1954. This could then be printed or mimeographed and would serve both the 4602d AISS and the ATIC as standard operating procedure. FOR THE COMMANDER Incl
/s/ ================================================================ {Page 1 of 4, numbered 46} HEADQUARTERS AISOP SUBJECT: Report of Visit of ATIC Representatives TO: Commander 1. On 17 and 18 November 1954, the Commander, 4602dAISS and his staff met with Captain Charles Hardin, ATIC and Doctor Allen Hynek, USAF Contract Astronomer, for the purpose of discussing ATIC-4602d AISS relationships in the investigation and processing of Unidentified Flying Object reports. During the course of the conference general information was exchanged relative to the UFOB program, procedures were developed relative to the handling of UFOB reports and the criteria for the evaluation of reports and conducting investigations were discussed. 2. The evaluation of all UFOB reports as well as the lines of inquiry of investigations, will be governed by the application of certain hypotheses to the data available. In the majority of cases, provided the information concerning the sightings is sufficiently complete, the data will suggest that the sighting was probably some known object or natural phenomena. For example, the data available might suggest to the investigator the hypothesis that the object was an aircraft. A check list will then be applied to the data using the hypothesis that the sighting was an aircraft. the check list will contain those items which, in combination, characterize aircraft from other possible objects or phenomena. For example, if the object was an aircraft, then there should have been noise, there should have been radar observation I certain areas, etc. The application of these check lists will suggest the lines of a follow-up investigation in the event the data is insufficient to satisfy the elements of proof necessary to identification. ATIC will furnish the 4602d AISS with the check lists referred to above which will assist in the identification of UFOB's and will cover, for example, aircraft, balloons, astronomical phenomena, guided missiles, etc. In addition a special evaluation of preliminary UFOB reports must be made to determine whether follow-up investigations can reasonably be expected to result in additional reliable and usable data. 3. Evaluation of Preliminary reports a. ATIC will furnish the 4602d AISS with "rule of thumb" criteria to be used by the Squadron 46 ================================================================ {Page 2} Hq, 4602D AISS, Ent AFB, Colorado Springs, Colo. subj: a follow-up, field investigation of a UFOB report. These criteria will cover, among others, the following subjects: (1) Duration of sighting (2) Number of persons reporting the sighting. (3) Distance from location of sighting to nearest 4602D AISS field unit. (4) Reliability of person or persons reporting the sighting. (5) Number of independent sightings reported. (6) The value in obtaining additional information immediately. (7) Existence of physical evidence (photographs, material, hardware). b. It was noted that a single extraordinary circumstance might require follow-up, field investigation even though the general application of the criteria furnished by ATIC indicates that further investigation would probably yield little additional information. c. In general follow-up field investigation of a preliminary UFOB report will not be warranted when the hypothesis suggested by the preliminary report of the incident cannot be tested by facilities available. 4. Exhaustion of Effort in the Investigation of UFOB's: Effort will be considered as exhaustive when every logical, physical hypothesis suggested by a qualified report of the incident has been tested by the facilities available. a. Qualified preliminary reports shall be considered to be those which merit further investigation under the criteria set forth in paragraph 3 above. 5. Unsolved Cases: A case shall be considered unsolved after every suggested hypothesis has been tested by available facilities and a large percentage of the data in the report does not correlate with the characteristics of known objects or natural phenomena. 2 ================================================================ {Page 3} Hq, 4602D AISS, Ent AFB, Colorado Springs, Colo. subj: 6. The following procedures were agreed upon: a. In case a UFOB sighting is reported initially by non-Air Force sources in letter form to either ATIC or the 4602d AISS, the file card will be made in duplicate by the recipient, and one copy forwarded to the other agency. This card will indicate that the UFOB was reported by letter and will show the action taken. b. ATIC will be forwarded a file card indicating the action taken by the 4602d AISS on preliminary reports transmitted to the 4602d by electrical means. c. The results of follow-up field investigations made by the 4602d AISS and reported on AF Form 112 will, in all cases, be sent to ATIC, DI USAF, and such other agencies as the Commander, 4602d AISS, deems necessary. d. ATIC may require specific information for aid in analyzing a reported UFOB sighting which can be furnished by a field unit of the 4602d AISS. provided travel is not involved, ATIC may contact the appropriate unit directly. In case ATIC desires detailed investigation or action which would necessitate travel, request will be made by ATIC to the Commander, 4602d AISS. e. File card reflecting action taken or conclusions reached by ATIC on either a preliminary or follow-up UFOB report will be sent to Commander, 4602d AISS under the following circumstances. (1) When conclusions of ATIC relative to identification of the sighting are at variance with those (2) When additional action is initiated by ATIC following the completion of action by the 4602d 7. Exchange of information: As a result of the ATIC experience in the field of investigations of UFOB reports, information of a general interest was discussed during the visit of ATIC representatives and will be furnished to the 4602d AISS on a continuing basis. Examples of such information follow: a. Grid cameras. Information relative to the present distribution of grid cameras and changes in the current distribution. b. Statistics. Consolidation of statistics reflecting trends, 3 ================================================================ {Page 4} Hq, 4602D AISS, Ent AFB, Colorado Springs, Colo. subj: total reports and studies conducted by contract agencies. c. Examples of proper and improper UFOB reporting. d. List of standard replies to letters requesting action or information concerning reported sightings. 8. It is requested that the guides for evaluation of reports referred to in paragraphs 2 and 3 above be furnished at the earliest practicable date. Concurrence or comments relative to the procedures and agreements contained herein are solicited. /s/ ATIAE-5 1st Ind AIR TECHNICAL INTELLIGENCE CENTER, TO: Commander, 4602d AISS (ADC) 1. The Air Technical Intelligence Center concurs in the agreements and procedures as outlined in basic letter. 2. A "Standard Operating Procedure" is being prepared for use in the unidentified flying object program. This will be furnished to Hq 4602d AISS as a suggested guide. 3. The SOP will include the procedures listed in the basic letter together with guides for evaluation of reports and criteria for determining the necessity for field investigations. FOR THE COMMANDER /s/ 3 ================================================================ {Unnumbered page} AIR TECHNICAL INTELLIGENCE CENTER SUBJECT: (Uncl) Evaluation of Unidentified Flying Objects TO: Commander 1. In addition to the policies and procedures already established between the 4602d AISS and the Air Technical Intelligence Center applicable to the Unidentified Flying Object Program, it is felt that the following information will prove useful, particularly in the Evaluation of UFOB cases. 2. In keeping with the purpose of the UFOB Program it is necessary that both the 4602d AISS and the ATIC strive to reach as many case solutions as possible, thereby reducing the percentage of unknowns to a bare minimum. 3. As pointed out in the "UFOB Guide," the word "solution" cannot always be used in the scientific sense when dealing with UFOBs. For this purpose it must more often mean that a given case meets a given hypothesis. 4. Past experience has shown that most UFOB cases, when sufficient information is contained, will fit to some extent one of the hypotheses contained in the Guide and, therefore, may be considered as solved. 5. By the very nature of UFOB reports, the great majority of cases, upon being analyzed, will present some doubt as to the true identity of the object or phenomenon described. For this reason evaluation criteria have been kept very broad. This has been done in one respect by giving the choice of the use of the words definite, probable or possible before each of the classification types. 6. The Fact that a UFOB sighting reaches ATIC from the 4602d AISS classified as a solved case, which is to be desired, does not preclude the possibility of further investigation or change in the light of any new information which may arise at either point. FOR THE COMMANDER /s/ ================================================================ {Unnumbered cover page} SECRET 4602D VOL.2 4602D AISS 1 JAN.-30 JUNE 1955 ================================================================ [Unnumbered title page} SECRET HISTORY OF 4602D AIR INTELLIGENCE SERVICE SQUADRON 1 January - 30 June 1955 VOLUME II SUPPORTING DOCUMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fifth Commanders Conference /s/ SECRET ================================================================ {Unnumbered Commanders Conference title page} SECRET HEADQUARTERS This document consists of 139 pages. THIS DOCUMENT CONSISTING OF 139 PAGES. xxxxxxxx (/s/) USAF REPORT OF 23 May to 26 May 1955 4602D AISS CLASSIFIED SECRET ================================================================ {Unnumbered Table of Contents page}
================================================================ {Page 4 (part)} ... 12. Each phase in the development of an organization is attended by a different set of problems. At the present time we are a well established CONAD intelligence organization. The value of our mission has been recognized by the Air Council but as our capabilities have become better known our responsibilities have become greater. Our area of responsibility is expanding to include portions of Canada and the Northeast Air Command area. We are becoming a fixed part of Moby Dick Operations. We are looked upon by many as the only organization capable of subjecting US airmen which will equip them for response after capture situations. We are the mainstay of the UFOB program. Opposing these greater responsibilities is a gradual depletion of officers and airmen qualified to perform the mission. There are three broad areas of possible solution to the problem of increasing responsibility and decreasing percent of effective manning. First, we could ask to be relieved of all "extra curricular activities" - but this would mean the loss of prestige and valuable training. Second, we can make every effort through personnel and intelligence channels to improve our manning situation. This we are doing. And third, we can make every effort to improve the qualifications of the personnel assigned and to do the same job with fewer people. This we will do. 13. At this Conference we must look forward to the immediate loss of both General Burgess and General Chidlaw without whose continued energetic support (4) ================================================================ {Page 5 (part)} the accomplishments of this squadron would not have been possible. General Burgess has applied his direct efforts towards solution of problems ranging from personnel and manning to the problems involving our relationship with the FBI and Civil Defense organizations. It has been trough his efforts that the Squadron has obtained stature within the Air Defense Command and now within the Continental Air Defense Command. He has never failed to defend and support us in our relationships with other organizations. Likewise he has never failed to place us on the carpet when our actions have been in any way out of line. We are indebted to general Burgess for both our existence and our present capabilities. Some of you and many of your predecessors are indebted to General Burgess for your promotions and other recommendations which he has made in your behalf. 14. General Chidlaw has always been extremely understanding of the problems of the Squadron and has supported us vigorously whenever the situation demanded it. He has always taken cognizance of individual and organizational achievements which have been called to his attention. 15. We have established the Squadron as a vital part of the CONAD organization. We have sold ourselves to both general Burgess and General Chidlaw. By the time of the next Commanders' Conference a large number of our present contingent of officers will be gone - Major DeBruler, Major Van Norman, Major Rosner, Captain Bronstein, Captain Hangis, Lt Feero, Lt Hammond, Lt Athens, Lt Beck, Captain Matyas and probably many more that we don't know about now. The inroads which are thus being made upon that group of officers with considerable tenure in the organization places an even greater burden on those remaining, upon those officers who will be assigned in the near future. ... (5) ================================================================ {Page 28} UFOB SUMMARY 1. PURPOSE a. Historical (1) First recorded instances of genuine UFOBs occurred in 1948 with the appearance of the (2) Birth of new literary genre "Science Fiction" which in most cases
is entirely fictitious and (3) "Buck Rogers" Trauma. Emotional stimulus of speculation on the fantastic. Aberrated b. Popular (1) General public not qualified to evaluate material propounded in
science fiction. Absurd and (2) World tension, the "Cold War" on the heels of the last have created syndrome of war c. United States Air Force (1) In view of the plethora of UFOB reports and interest given them, recognition of necessity for (2) Collection and identification of main categories of phenomena which form basis for UFOB (3) Recognition factor, particularly as pertains to mission of 4602d AISS, indicates that guided 28 ================================================================ {Page 29} 2. RESPONSIBILITY a. Basic Regs (1) AFR 200-2 places responsibility for UFOB investigations on ADC. Par 4b specifically (2) ADCR 200-7 enjoins all subordinate units, the responsibility of rendering the necessary (3) ADCSM 200-2 establishes specific and precise reporting procedures within ADC. 3. REPORTING PROCEDURES a. UFOB is any object or the report of any object apparently airborne or flying that cannot readily be identified as a familiar object. Unidentified aircraft are not considered as UFOBs. b. Majority of sightings made by non-military sources. Frequent sightings by GOC Observers etc. Usually reported to police or nearest military installation. (1) The Air Force activity first receiving notice of a UFOB sighting
is immediately responsible (2) ATIC Form # 164 enumerates mandatory items of information which
will be contained in the (3) The preliminary report is transmitted to the addressees indicated
in AFR 200-2. Information c. A UFOB report originating from a non-military source and transmitted directly to a unit of the 4602d AISS automatically enjoins responsibility for preparation and transmission of the preliminary report. Only in this instance is the 4602d AISS responsible for preliminary investigation. Otherwise all squadron activities are limited to follow-up investigations. 29 ================================================================ {Page 30} d. Electrical methods will usually be employed in the transmission of UFOB reports. If the report is more than seventy-two hours old AF Form #112 will be utilized to transmit the necessary information. e. Upon receipt of the preliminary UFOB report at Squadron Headquarters, analysis and evaluation of content is determined and disposition as to the advisability of follow-up is made. The following forms are utilized to record the pertinent information contained in the UFOB message; (1) UFOB Log AISOP Form #7 records date and time of receipt. Origin of report, name of (2) UFOB Index Card is completed for insertion in UFOB Files. Contains identifying (3) The critical teletype message is also retained in Squadron Headquarters files for further f. When it is determined that a follow-up investigation is warranted, based upon the criteria of potential information to be gained by such action and the geographical disposition of field units for such action, the procedure is as follows: (1) The field unit of the 4602d AISS within whose area of responsibility the UFOB report has (2) The field unit assigned to the follow-up investigation will contact those agencies which are (3) The results of the follow-up investigation, containing procedures involved, agencies and 30 ================================================================ {Page 31} g. ATIC will receive notification of all UFOB investigations conducted by the squadron whether at Headquarters or in the field. ATIC will make final disposition of these reports and if necessary will implement the investigations of the 4602d AISS. h. Instructions for the disposition of physical evidence collected in connection with UFOB investigations are contained in the basic document of responsibility AFR 200-2. 4. CLASSIFICATION * Three Main Classifications: a. Physical (1) Although aircraft are not considered within the scope of UFOB definition, they are frequently (2) Balloons constitute a large proportion of reported UFOBs. Several types are of great size b. Astronomical (1) Although stationary stars and planets are often reported as UFOBs, under certain (2) Meteorites, comets and Novae are being observed constantly by astronomical observatories c. Optical (1) Check with weather stations will readily reveal presence of temperature inversions which (2) Refractive and reflective quality of light cause objects to appear larger than they really are (3) Lighting facilities connected with aerodromes and areas of high
air traffic density are often 5. INVESTIGATION AND EVALUATION a. Evaluation 31 ================================================================ {Page 32} (1) Period of day or night, light available and moon phase, location of stars and planets should (2) Sightings of less than ten seconds are almost completely worthless. Those under thirty (3) Interval of time between the actual sighting and its reporting is of paramount importance. (4) Consider the background of the source; education, particularly in things technical. Emotional (5) Information of all kinds must be rigidly supported and implemented by evidence. b. Investigation (1) Establish a most likely explanation for the UFOB. Apply all the
tests to it. Does it stand up in (2) Arrange material in order so that items of contradictory nature
will be readily apparent. (3) Equivocal or unexplained items must be researched and finalized.
The final report of (4) Choose the points of the report which appear strongest at first
glance. Those which require 32 ================================================================ {Page 33} Reports of statements of the preliminary report should be reverified. (5) Consolidation of information should be made at the conclusion of
the investigation before 6. POLICY a. In accordance with AFR 200-2 military personnel will restrict statements pertaining to UFOBs to fact that UFOB was identified as a familiar object. If this is not the case only the statement that an investigation is being made by ATIC is authorized for release. b. Complete data on UFOB reports is essential for reliable estimates etc. 32 ================================================================ {page 121} FIFTH COMMANDER'S CONFERENCE
121 ================================================================ {page 122 (part)} COMMANDER'S SUMMARY (Colonel White) This is a summation of the Commander's Conference. I have a variety of subjects here, I'm going to hit only the highlights since the discussions have already been held. However, I would like to give you the final feelings I have in regards to each of these phases. ... 122 ================================================================ {page 125 (part)} SECRET ... 3. UFOB's. We may yet bring the balance of the ADC into line on UFOB's. We also have to bring the balance of the Air Force into line on UFOB's. it will be the subject of a letter to the Command stating those cases wherein we found discrepancies. I was very interested in the report about ________ and the fact that he is usurping certain authority and not reporting these UFOB's. All are supposed to be reported because they will give us an experience factor. USAF has to have the experience factor in order to judge whether there is a build up or whether any radical air developments are in progress. So nobody should take it on their own authority to say that we will not investigate a UFOB. That authority rests only with this organization and solely in this Headquarters. I'd like to say that what you've accomplished in the field of UFOB's is held in very high regard by ATIC. We're solving between 75 and 90% of these reported and they've never had that degree of accomplishments before. Some of you have done outstanding work in your presentations and your investigations. It's giving you very good field practice. Your 112's are getting much better. Your investigative efforts are showing a hell of a lot more logical thought. I'm very surprised at times to see how comprehensive a study was before it got to this Headquarters and I want you to keep that up. ... 125 SECRET ================================================================ {page 131 (part)} ... 15. SECURITY a. When you are an Intelligence Officer, security breaches or carelessness in the handling of classified material cannot be tolerated and will result in the most serious of consequences. Each of you is responsible for an active security training and indoctrination program within your respective units, 131 ================================================================ {End of Part 7 of CUFON's 4602d AISS UFO Sampler} ================================================================ |
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