UFO Observation Report — Rocky, Oklahoma, 19 June 1968

This document file details the investigation of a UFO sighting that occurred on 19 June 1968 near Rocky, Oklahoma. Two farm hands reported observing an illuminated, round object, approximately 25-30 feet in diameter, descending at a 45-degree angle near their barn. The witnesses described the object as having a whitish center and a whitish-yellow perimeter, with counter-clockwise rotating lights. The object initially made a sound similar to a helicopter, which then ceased when the object was close. The witnesses, who were unloading hay at the time, were frightened and took refuge in a barn. Captain George S. Leonard Jr. of the 70th Bomb Wing was appointed as the investigating officer. His investigation included interviews with the witnesses, a survey of the site, and a radioactivity check, which yielded negative results. Local radar and air traffic control agencies, including the ARTC Center in Fort Worth and the control tower at Clinton-Sherman AFB, reported no unusual traffic in the area at the time of the sighting. Weather reports indicated thunderstorms in the vicinity with a sharp surface temperature inversion. Despite a thorough investigation, Captain Leonard concluded that the cause was inconclusive, suggesting a possible combination of freak weather and a straying aircraft. The file includes extensive correspondence between the Air Force's Aerial Phenomena Office, led by Lt. Col. Hector Quintanilla, and Dr. J. Allen Hynek of Northwestern University, who conducted follow-up interviews with the witnesses. The witnesses maintained their account of the event, noting that they were initially scared and that the object did not resemble any known aircraft.