Air Intelligence Information Report — Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, 13 January 1953

This Air Intelligence Information Report, dated 5 February 1953, details an investigation into an aerial sighting that occurred on 13 January 1953 at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. The investigation was conducted by Agent William L. McKelvey under the direction of Chief Agent Andrew J. Reid. Three witnesses, all associated with the 1301st Medical Detachment, reported observing an object in the sky at approximately 1750 hours. The witnesses, who were located near Ward 12 of the Post Hospital, described the object as a round, reddish-orange or yellow ball. One witness reported that the object left a white vapor trail that remained visible for one to two minutes after the object disappeared. Estimates regarding the altitude of the object varied significantly among the witnesses, ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet to approximately 20,000 feet. The object was reported to be traveling in a northerly direction toward New York City. One witness specifically noted that they did not believe the object was a jet aircraft because it produced no audible sound. The total duration of the observation was estimated to be between one and four minutes. The official conclusion reached in the report is that the object was 'PROBABLY AIRCRAFT.' The report was forwarded to the Air Defense Command and the Air Technical Intelligence Center for further review.