PROJECT 1947

 

SECRET

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE

AIR STAFF SUMMARY SHEET

  SUBJECT
 

Publicity on Flying Saucer Incidents

  SUMMARY

1.   The U.S. Air Force collects and evaluates all information on "flying saucers."
A special project has been in progress since early 1948 wherein a detailed, technical analysis on all data is being made to ascertain origin and identification of "flying saucers." Meanwhile the Directorate of Intelligence has completed a preliminary analysis of "flying saucer" incidents to establish possible explanations.

2.    At the present time evaluation of these reports has progressed only to the
extent that we must accept that some type of flying objests have been observed although their identification and origin are not yet discernible. We, therefore, conclude that insufficient data is available to date to warrant any further action except continuing attempts to determine the nature and origin of these objects.

3.    There is increasing pressure on the part of the U.S. Press to publicise "flying
saucer" incidents. The Director of Intelligence, USAF, has attempted to dissuade the Press from publishing articles of this nature.  It has been pointed out to the Press that these articles would necessarily be speculative in nature and would probably result in a flood of reports, making the problem of analysis and evaluation of "flying saucer" reports increasingly difficult. Despite our efforts to limit this publicity the Saturday Evening Post has directed a member of their staff, a Mr. Sidney Shallet, to write an article dealing with "flying saucer" incidents. Mr. Shallet has approached the Directorate of Intelligence for assistance in the preparation of this article.   It is believed that an article of this nature would be less harmful to the national interests if the Directorate of Intelligence assists in its preparation.

RECOMMENDATION

1.    That inquiring agencies be informed that the Air Force is investigating care-
fully all valid reports of flying objects.

2.    That the attached memorandum to Mr. Forrestal (Tab A), requesting authority to
assist the Press, upon request, in the preparation of such articles, be signed.

cabell signature

 

 

 1  Incl                                                                                 C.P. CABELL
Tab A Major General, USAF
Director of Intelligence, Office
of Deputy Chief of Staff,
Operations

 

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