U.S. Air Force Flying Discs File, 1952

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Maj Fournet/AFOIN-2A2

AC/71379

12 November 1952

Mr. Robert J. Gorman
Suite 1468
First National Bank Bldg.
38 South Dearborn Street
Chicago 3, Illinois

Dear Mr. Gorman:

Your letter of 29 October 1952 to the President has been referred to the USAF since, within the Department of Defense, the USAF has primary interest in investigation of "flying saucer" reports. It is gratifying to receive such expression of interest from public-minded individuals. In your case, we are grateful for the opportunity to correct a misapprehension.

The USAF has not prepared any recent report arriving at any conclusions with respect to the existence or nonexistence of "flying saucers". It is believed that Mr. Robert S. Allen, in his article of September 26, referred to a report prepared for public release by a private group of civilians. In commenting on this, the USAF stated that the report reflected the conclusions of individuals who were in no way connected with the Air Force. We take this opportunity to reiterate this to you.

It is true that the statements of Mr. DesVergers were startling; however, a thorough investigation of the incident has been conducted and it has been determined that the sensational aspects of the original stories carried by the national press agencies were exaggerated. Further, the USAF made no attempt to restrict Mr. DesVergers' discussion or personal exploitation of the alleged incident; this he admitted in an Associated Press dispatch datelined West Palm Beach, Florida, August 27, 1952.

The Air Force is actively interested in the investigation of "flying saucer" incidents. No facts have been withheld from the public. The investigators hope to reach some conclusions concerning the existence and source of the objects. To date, sufficient evidence is not available to support any firm conclusions. I am confident that when scientific analysis of available evidence supports a conclusion, the public will be duly informed.

It is sincerely hoped that these comments will allay your concern on this subject. The manner in which you have sought an answer to