Compilation of Reports and Correspondence Regarding Flying Discs, July 1947

This document is a compilation of FBI internal memoranda, teletypes, and newspaper clippings from July 1947 concerning the widespread reports of 'flying discs' or 'flying saucers' across the United States. The reports originate from various locations, including Idaho, Wisconsin, Texas, and Maryland. Several incidents are described in detail, such as the discovery of a circular saw blade with attached wires and tubes by Father Joseph Brasky in Grafton, Wisconsin, which was widely reported as a 'flying saucer' landing. Other reports involve sightings of objects near military installations, such as the Eighth Air Force reporting a hexagonal object near Roswell, New Mexico, which was identified as a high-altitude weather balloon with a radar reflector. The FBI's role, as reflected in these documents, was primarily to receive reports, refer them to the appropriate military authorities (specifically the Army Air Forces or G-2), and maintain a record of the public and press interest. The documents also highlight the skepticism of scientists and the press, with some reports suggesting that the sightings were misidentifications of airplanes, weather balloons, or even hoaxes. The FBI explicitly noted in several instances that they had no jurisdiction over these matters and were not conducting investigations. The compilation includes correspondence from citizens expressing concern about the nature of these objects, with some suggesting they might be of foreign origin, such as from Russia. The documents reflect the chaotic and rapid nature of the initial public and official response to the phenomenon in July 1947.