Initial Report of Investigation of UFO — Richmond, Virginia, 22 January 1965

This document is an official Air Force investigation report regarding a UFO sighting that occurred on January 22, 1965, in Richmond, Virginia. The witness, a newsman from WLEE Radio, reported observing a bright light hovering over the WTVR station tower for approximately 45 seconds. The object was described as yellow in the back and white in the front, appearing roughly the size of a half-dollar held at arm's length. The witness, who was driving on West Broad Street at the time, stopped his vehicle to observe the object before it moved rapidly to the north and disappeared over the horizon. The investigation, conducted by First Lieutenant Robert R. Dockum of the 4500th Air Base Wing, concluded that the most probable cause was reflected or angled ground lights exacerbated by a low-altitude temperature inversion. Other possibilities mentioned included an airplane in the area or sun reflection from an orbiting satellite. The report also highlights the witness's personal interest in UFOs, noting his intent to produce a special on the subject and his desire for an official Air Force position on the phenomenon. No physical evidence was found, and no interceptive action was taken due to a three-day delay in reporting the incident.