Correspondence between Major Hector Quintanilla and Dr. J. Allen Hynek (1966-1968)

This collection of correspondence between Major Hector Quintanilla, Jr., of the Air Force's Foreign Technology Division, and Dr. J. Allen Hynek, the scientific consultant for Project Blue Book, spans from 1966 to 1968. The documents primarily consist of administrative requests from the Air Force for Hynek to review and provide written evaluations for various UFO sighting reports, alongside Hynek's detailed responses. Throughout the correspondence, Hynek maintains a critical stance regarding the methodology and scientific standards employed by Project Blue Book. He frequently argues that the data provided for many cases is of such poor quality that it is impossible to reach a firm conclusion, often suggesting that cases labeled as 'hoaxes' or 'insufficient data' should instead be classified as 'unidentified' or 'insufficient data due to lack of follow-up.' Hynek expresses significant frustration with the Air Force's administrative processes, noting that the project relies on an archaic filing system and lacks the necessary resources for proper scientific investigation. He repeatedly pleads for 'immediate reaction capability' to gather data while sightings are fresh, rather than relying on delayed reports. The correspondence also touches upon the broader context of UFO research at the time, including the activities of the Condon Committee, which Hynek views with skepticism regarding its potential impact on the public perception of the UFO phenomenon. Hynek also discusses his personal efforts to improve his own data collection, such as purchasing a tape recorder for interviews and his plans to consult with international experts. He remains committed to his role as a consultant, despite his clear dissatisfaction with the project's limitations, because he believes it is vital to maintain continuity in the study of UFO reports. The documents reveal a persistent conflict between the Air Force's desire for quick, administrative closure of cases and Hynek's insistence on a more rigorous, scientific approach that acknowledges the limitations of the available evidence.