Reply to Congressman Gordon H. Scherer regarding Mrs. Catherine Carter Golden

This document consists of a memorandum dated August 31, 1960, from the CIA to Congressman Gordon H. Scherer, responding to an inquiry regarding a constituent, Mrs. Catherine Carter Golden. Mrs. Golden had contacted the Congressman and the Secretary of State concerning a UFO photograph that had been featured on the Dave Garroway television show. The photograph, which allegedly depicted a UFO near the island of Trindade, Brazil, had been presented as authentic and was reportedly endorsed by the Brazilian Navy. The CIA investigated the matter in coordination with the U.S. Air Force and concluded that the photograph was a hoax. The agency identified the photographer as a freelancer known for trick photography. The memorandum advises that the CIA should not concern itself with Mrs. Golden's inquiries, as the matter does not involve the agency and the Air Force is handling public information regarding UFOs. The document includes a dismissive remark from the Naval Attache, who suggested that a sighting at the barren island of Trindade was unlikely, jokingly referencing Martians. The file also contains the original letter from Mrs. Golden to Congressman Scherer, dated August 15, 1960, in which she expresses concern over the Air Force's handling of UFO information, mentions censorship in Brazil, and urges the Congressman to support open Congressional hearings on the subject.