Incident #21 and #43 Sighting Reports — Des Moines and Clarion, Iowa, 29 June 1947

This document contains records and evaluations for two related UAP sighting incidents, #21 and #43, which occurred on June 29, 1947, in Iowa. The observer, a bus driver who also served as an agent for Amazing Stories Magazine, reported seeing thirteen objects flying in a single file line at an altitude of 1200 feet. The objects were described as elliptical, 'inverted saucer' shaped, approximately 175 to 250 feet in diameter and 12 feet thick, with a 'dirty white' color. The observer noted the objects made a sound similar to an electric motor or dynamo and were traveling at an estimated speed of 300 mph. The sighting occurred near Des Moines and Clarion, Iowa. The Air Materiel Command (AMC) evaluation concludes that there is no obvious astronomical explanation for the incident. The report notes that if the size estimates provided by the witness are given any credence, the objects could not have been further than five miles away, and were likely much closer. The AMC opinion expresses skepticism, suggesting that if these were truly unusual aircraft, it is highly probable that other witnesses would have reported them, and ultimately concludes that there is insufficient information for a proper analysis. The document also includes an incident index from the Project Grudge report, which categorizes various sightings based on their probability of being astronomical, conventional aircraft, or other phenomena, with this specific incident listed under the category of evidence suggesting no explanation.