[BLANK] reported disc saucer observation — December 1958

As you know, this Center is responsible for performing a scientific and technical evaluation of all reports of unidentified flying objects in accordance with the provisions of AFR 200-2, dated 5 February 1958. These evaluations of necessity can be no better than the reported information with which we must work. It is clear, however, that for various reasons these individuals and agencies such as National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena, Civilian Saucer Intelligence and Aerial Phenomena Research Organization, etc., feel a need for, and do everything possible to direct the Air Force, the investigations, and the ultimate evaluation of reported sightings. Townsand, Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, who recently reported a sighting from the Washington, D.C. area. These people feel strongly UNCLASSIFIED Page 1 of 5 UNCLASSIFIED about what they saw and normally report sightings in a strictly patriotic interest. A prompt investigation, sound analysis, and accurate report relating to what they saw leaves them with a pride in what they did and in the service that is most concerned with their defense. UNCLASSIFIED Page 2 of 5 01/18/2023 UNCLASSIFIED a positive regressive approach to uncover the facts we so badly need to make prompt and comprehensive evaluations. (2) As a result in part from the complacency indicated above, considerable time is lost in getting investigations under way, and all too frequently the investigation, once conducted and reported on, appears to have been performed by the most available individual without regard to his competence as an investigator, and ability to properly handle the public relations aspect so important to this program. (3) As indicated in paragraph 2e above, many of the private and organized UFO investigators apparently in competition with the Air Force appear on the scene well equipped to conduct a field investigation. In many cases in the past this pressure for information has built up to Congressional inquiries prior to ATIC having the basic information from which a decent appraisal of the sighting could be made. (6) In numerous instances in the past UFO sightings that have drawn a great amount of public interest (have been publicized widely in the press, on radio, television, etc.) have never been officially reported to ATIC. When a reply comes back that the particular case cited has never been officially reported to the Air Force it strengthens their case that they're doing a better job for the country than the Air Force supported by their taxes, ad infinitum. Reference Air Force Regulation 200-2, dated 5 February 1958, Subject: "Unidentified Flying Objects," as amended by AFR 200-2A, dated 3 July 1958. In spite of the fact that the USAF has yet to uncover specific evidence of Unidentified Flying Objects that represent a threat from outer space, considerable public interest and pressure on this particular program continues. During the past year the investigation of UFO sightings as outlined in AFR 200-2 has left much to be desired.