Report of Investigation: Unknown Aerial Phenomena Sighted by Cpl Lertis E. Stanfield

This document is a formal Report of Investigation concerning an unidentified aerial phenomenon observed by Corporal Lertis E. Stanfield of the 3024th Air Police Squadron, Holloman Air Force Base. The sighting occurred on the night of February 24, 1950, and the early morning of February 25, 1950, near Datil, New Mexico. Corporal Stanfield, who was on detached service at the time, reported observing a single, perfectly round, brilliant white object that changed colors to red and green. The object was first sighted at 1930 hours on February 24, remained in view until 2200 hours, and then reappeared at 0200 hours on February 25, moving in a northwest direction before disappearing behind a mountain at approximately 0230 hours. The witness noted that the object moved in a straight line and did not exhibit erratic behavior. Photographs were taken by the witness at various times during the event, and these were included as part of the investigation file. The Electronics and Atmospheric Branch and the Weather Detachment at Holloman Air Force Base were unable to provide an explanation for the object at the time of the initial report. However, subsequent evaluations, as noted in the Project 10073 record, concluded that the object was an 'Astro (Comet),' based on a comparison with photographs of Comet SIKI from 1962. The investigation was conducted by Special Agent Robert R. Johns of the 17th District Office of Special Investigations, Kirtland Air Force Base, in compliance with AFCSI Letter No. 85. The report includes correspondence between various Air Force commands, including the 6540th Missile Test Wing, regarding the handling of the photographic evidence and the ongoing investigation into unidentified aerial objects.