Project 10073 Record Card and Air Intelligence Information Report — MacDill Air Force Base, 13 August 1952

This document comprises an Air Intelligence Information Report (IR-108-52) regarding an unusual aerial sighting at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, on 13 August 1952. The report, authored by Captain A. W. J. Grant, details an incident occurring at 1411 hours local time, involving approximately 20 airmen and two civilians. The witnesses reported observing between one and three elongated, unidentifiable objects. According to the narrative, the objects were initially seen heading at approximately 360 degrees and gaining altitude. One object reportedly performed abrupt maneuvers, including a 90-degree turn to the west, moving at speeds exceeding 600 M.P.H. It then appeared to hover for approximately five minutes before moving at an excessive rate back to the east, eventually resuming a northerly course and disappearing. The witnesses described the objects as having a dark lower surface and emitting white light from the upper surface, possibly due to reflected sunlight. The objects were described as appearing 'like a piece of newspaper rising upward on an air current' and being 'apparently flexiable.' The report notes that there was no visible propulsion system, no trail or exhaust, and no sound associated with the objects. The observation lasted approximately twenty minutes. The report highlights that the witnesses were mostly young and inexperienced, though three non-commissioned officers and two civilians were considered sincere and reliable. Weather conditions were described as hot, humid, and clear with broken cumulus clouds at 3,000 feet. No radar contact was established, as the base radar was inoperative for maintenance at the time of the sighting. No photographs or physical evidence were obtained. The document includes a cover memo from Headquarters Strategic Air Command at Offutt Air Force Base, dated 27 August 1952, forwarding the report to the Air Technical Intelligence Center at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The report is marked 'RESTRICTED.'