PROJECT BLUE BOOK

1. DATE

|

30 NOV 54

PROJECT 10073 RECCRD CARD

% LOCATION syrACAUGA, ALBAMA

GEORGIA, MISSISSIPPI, FLA, S CAROL

7. LENGTH OF OBSERVATION

3. DATE-TimE GROUP s—~—CS~ST 4. TYPE OF OBSERVATION
Local — = 0D Greund- Vi sual 0 Ground-Redor
GMT 30/ 1850Z 1900Z D Air Viasuol D Air-Intercept Radar
5. PHOTOS i peat jel $. SOURCE _
Oye, ATIC
OD Ne MILITARY & GIVILIAN

@. NUMBER OF OBJECTS | 9.
ONE

COURSE

12.
TA
QO

Ooo oog ono OD

CONCLUSIONS

Was Balloon
Prohably Balleon
Possibly Balloon

Was Aircroft
Probobly Aircraft
Possibly Aircroft

Was Astronomical Meteorite
Probably Astronomical
Possibly Astronomicol

Other
Insufficient Data for Evaluation
Unknown

10, BRIEF SUMMARY OF SIGHTING

Obj observed by hundreds of persons in the

——-_

1]. COMMENTS

Obj was definitely ea meteorite.

a
* £) Gi»

Miss,

Georgia and Fla area. Refer to

9 lb obj recovered.

case Tile for complete details.

TS LL
ATIC FORM 329 (REV 26 3B? 52)

—_—- rr

RO eR ere RE ET re ~ 97 Paes ene ee er ee a thle 7 ee

[ACE Flve oF JESya 32> ( (

45 RECOVARSD SY HASWELL SIR RESCUE TEAN.s OBJECT PRESENTLY

POULS TO TACHSLI. AFS AD WILL PROSASLY REMAIN IN THE CUSTODY aF
Se SLATZMENT BY CAP es HAYNES Ne HURTER.

cArL HUNTER SAY AT. i23iCST Of} TRUE N HEADING 49 DIGRESS ELZVATIO

WH TO 20 OR 3M DEGREES ELEVATION YHAT APPEARED TO BE A METEOR WITH

LONG WHITES FEREY TALL AND A LITILE WHITE SMOKE ABOUTAS LONG AS A f2"
TH

PULER HELD AT ARMS LENGTH WI

" Ped - ce eT adeer tine Boa Sh oe t ba na —m .
A WHI * z REY, i eis i Cat li . f bs Be yi 34 AND

VCSELY SLINDING LIKE WHITE PHOSPHEROUS BODY ABOUT THE SIZE OF THE END

3

J° A FINGER POINT AT YOU FROM LENGTHe NO NOISE WAS HEARD THROUGH-
WT ITS VISISLE 32 TO 45 DEGREE LIVING COURSE TO SOUHDLESS EXPLOSI
NEe AI EXPLOSION OR DISINTERGATION, POINT IT STOPPED INSTANTLY,

2NED TO V ANTS! dq INSTA! TL’ aiihan BY DISINTERGATING OF BY pao s eee

WnieS ATMOSPHERE s NO PIZCes COULD BE SEEN DUE TO NICYED EYE SoiRVATION.
AT VANISHING POZNT THE OBJECT APPEARED TO STILL BE QUITE HIGH, SAY
+3 TO 69 THOUSAND FEET. I IMAGINE SPEED WAS IN EXCESS OF 2 TO 6
THOUSAND MILES PER HOUR SINCE IT COVERED A293 DEGREE ARC OF THE SKY IN
“B0UT 2 SECOND OR LESS« I WAS COINCIDENTLY LOOKING IN A N BIRECTION AT

Citiz OF EVENTs« THE WHITES. SMOXE TALL (PART OF IT) LINGZRED IN THE SKY

-OR ABOUT ZS5TO 10 MINUTES AFTER VANISHING POINT, AND FINALLY DISAPATED
INTO OR ABOVE OR BELOW A VERY TH LAYER OF CIRVS (HORSE TAILS’ IN THE
PATH OF THE OBUJE

“PT « HAYHGS M, HUNTER MANVELL FLT SERVICE CENTSR MAAWELL AFS, ALAc

ry Wir 6h S

u Livy re

TeMPrTn Mn SIS UVa RIT)

a 4 | iit od WAN be Pt T> aay KW) tes 8,

= $A) 3s. 9 Nov JESSY? “ —_
of wae & 2» ee iw © r

i”

-

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES AIR FORCE
WASHINGTON

SISTRIST OF FISE OF SPECIAL INVESTISATIONS

UNCLASSIFIED lafandoaren wen | ise m " :

+ - -~
5° 2u-21=150 19 L*

ad LP ™=,9rT) TIN TIGNTT oy PT oe | YI
ad JECT: UN LONE Lea ei ap aH a »?
~
I

Over Alabama, Georgia and iississippi,
and particularly Sylacausa, Alabama,

“f xf i . ‘ --
40 November 1954
SYFECIAL INQUIRY

TO: Comnander
Air Technical Intelligence Cmter
VWright=—Pattersm Air Force Base
Chio

AT TNs A TIAA-20

1. Transmitted herewith for your information is one (1) copy

of Report of Investigation of Special Agent DQIALD T. SCAFF, District
Office No. 5, file 2h-i2i,, dated 5 Dacember 1954, concemming subject
ee

2e Your attention is invited to the provisions of AFR 12/1,
waicm prohisit the release of investigative information to unauthore .-
aq

1 Incl ROBERTS
ROI DO #5 dtd § Dec 5 Colonel,
Distric

Cc
:
U)
ok
Bis.
nM
ae

DETAILS: UNCLASSIFIED

1. This investigation was requested by Commander, Maxwell AFE, Alabama,
predicated upon unconfirmed reports of aerial explosions, alleged aircraft
crashes and unidentified flying objects, one of which is alleged to have fallen
through the roof of house, injuring civilian female occupant, on 30 November 1954,

2. This is a joint investigation by Special Agent KENNETH L. ATCHLEY and
the writer.

AT MAXWELL AFB, ALABAMA

3. At 1540 hours, 30 November 1954, ANDREW R, CURTIS, JR., Captain, Adjutant,
3800th Air Base Wing, telephonically advised Special Agent ATCHLEY that GILBERT P,
COHEN, 24_L Officer of the Day, had at 1530 hours, received a telephone call
from cnpeiamma Sylacauga, Alabama, to the effect that a large
object of either rock or metallic substance had fallen through the roof of a house
in Sylacauga a few hours previously, and said object had struck and injured a
woman occupant of the house, HOWARD stated further that an explosion of some type
had occurred in the air over Sylacauga at approximately the same time as the object
had struck the house. HO/ARD further advised that aircraft had been seen in the
area just prior to the explosion. HOWARD stated according to his information, the
object had been hot when it was found on the floor of the house. CUHXTIS further
informed Special Agent ATCELEY that a 48th Air Hescue Squadron helicopter had
been dispatched to Sylacauga to obtain the object and return it to laxwell AFB,
and Colonel JAMES G. IRATT, Commander, 3800th Air Base Wing, had requested that
Special Agent ATCHLEY meet the helicopter upon its return from Sylacauga and
examine the object in an attempt to identify its origin.

4. At 1600 hours, 30 November 1954, WILLIAM H, AUSTIN, WOUG, Adjutant,
3860th Air Base Group, Gunter AFB, Alabama, telephonically notified the writer
that at approximately 1315 hours he had received a telerhone call from hrs.
GEORGE L. MC KEE, 4061 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery, Alabame, to the effect that
et approximately 1245 hours, she had seen a large explosion in the air followed
by a large puff of black smoke, lrs. MC KEE stated that the explosion appeared
to be in a northern direction from Montgomery, and she saw only a large explosion
of flame followed by the blinck smoke, but did not hear the explosion, AUSTIN
stated that ims. MC KEE could furnish no further pertinent information.

5. At 1610 hours, 30 November 1954, GEORGE R. EUMFORD, Ist Lt., Flight
Service Center, was telephonically contacted regarding any reported aircraft
crashes, BUMFORD advised they had received numerous rerorts cf alleged aircraft
ereshes and/or explosions during the cfternoon from numerous places in Alabama,
Mississippi and Georgia, including a report of an explosion in the area of
Sylacauga, Alabema. BUMFORD advised that 211 received reports had been or were
being checked, all with negative results, BUMFORD further verified that the 48th

UNCLASSIFIED

30 WOV 1954 - SYLACAUGA, ALABAMA
7 METEOR INCIDENT

ATIC Case file and evaluation

SUMMARY ¢

On 30 Novemver 1954 at approximately 1350 hrs, 2ST, an odject crashed

through the roof of the residence of Mrs. IR nee Sylacauga, Alebama.

vr Sn. - 5 slightly injured during the incident.

The object was initially observed by many versons in the three state srea
of Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi. The object exploded at an estimated
altitude of 45,000 to 50,000 ft; the largest and only fragment recovered was

that piece which penetrated i residence.

The initial UFO teletype reports are designated as Attachment #1, of

tnis case file.
AF FIELD RECOVERY AND REPORT:

Upon immediate notification of the incident to the Executive Officer at

Maxwell AFB, Alabama, an air rescue helicopter (SA-16) piloted by Capt Rodgers

was dispatched to a Capt. Rodgers acquired the object and

promised Mrs. ae. to return it after the AF had examined it. 3. Oe

agreed to the arrangement.

Capt Rodgers returned the object to Maxwell AFB, where Dr. Frederick K.

Morris of the Directory of Research Studies Institute tentatively identified

the object was either a stone meteorite or an earthly perioditite.
On 1 December 1954, members of the 4602nd Air Intelligence Service Fit
2-C errived at Maxwell and interviewed Col. K.L. Atchley, District Commander, Sth

Dist., OSI, Maxwell. After coordination with the Base Commander of Maxwell

—/

a ed

7 rE 5

PO et eee ——

File 2

| ( .. UNC tr
UNITED STATES AIR FORCE | Fike No. Date SSIRta—

THE INSPECTOR GENERAL 24-424, 8 December 195¢ |
OFFICE OF SFECIAL INVESTICATIONS Report Made By
REPORT OF INVESTIGATION DONALD T, SCAFF, S/A at :
Title Report Made At -
(Unclassified) i DO #8, Maxwell AFB, Alatama
| UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS Period
| Over Alabama, Georgia and Mississipri, | 30_ Nov; 1 Dec 54 - re Le
| and particularly Sylacauga, Alabama, Office of Origin
30 November 1954 LO #8, Maxwell] AFB, Alabam ,
Status
CLOSED ,

| Character

| Reference

Synopsis
Investigation requested by Commander, Maxwell AFB, Alabama, as a result ef

unconfirmed reports of aerial explosions, alleged aircraft crashes and unidenti-
fied flying objects. One unidentified flying object feil through roof of house
injuring occupant. Object obtained by Air Rescue aircraft, returned to station
‘and examined by Geiger Counters with negative results. Flight Service Center
received numerous reports of aircraft crashes, aerial explosions and flying ob-
jects in area where UFOB found. Air Defense Command informed of situation
under provisions of AFR 200-2 and directed AISS Team to question persons with
knowledge of reports of explosions and to obtain UFOB for transmission to
Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, for purpose of determining its origin. Consider-
able publicity resulted in object having been obtained by USAF. Guided Missile
Expert advised UFOB not of similar substance used in his field of experiments,
| Geologist with Research Studies Institute advises that without complete exami-
nations of object, he could identify it only as "either a stone meteorite or

an earthly peridotite". UFOB released to AISS Team. Kusband of victim alleged
to have retained attorney to regain UFOB from USAF,

RPTENT TON

Disclosure of the nature, sources, or even the existence of such investigative
information to persons mentioned in the report or to other persons not normally
entitled to such information may be made only when expressly authorized by the
Director of Special Investigations, Headquarters USAF, or higher authority.
Unauthorized disclosure of the information will be considered to be a violation

of AFR 205-1.

— oe eee we

(Cndr Ww =F AFB, Attn:

ATIC, Info - 1, ALLE Co y ie =f

w/ine 1s) L. ATCRLEY
ae ec USAF

06 ee oe ee - -

District Commander

SEECIAL INQUIRY |
|____ TWX. _DO#8 to Dir, OSI, CIID 112, dtd 2 Dec 54

Listribution Action Copy Forwarded to | File Stamp
Cmdr, 3800th AB Wg. 2
(Info) (w/incls) ”
9 YEAR INTERVALS} :
Dir. OSI (w/incls) 2 ae AF TER 12 YEARS.
$290.10
DO#14 (Info) (w/incls) 2 nov, bis S cian
(Cmdr ADC, Info - 1, ~ .
w/incls) approved
DO#5 (Info) (w/incls) 2 | ae

es ee ee

j

/

ee te ee eet de
} ‘

f

mane

30 November 1954, and indicated the following notations pertaining to rerorts
received concerning aircraft cras Yor mid-air explosions:

» Homerville, Georgia, reported seein,

a. 1238 hours: Mrs.
be aiproximately five (5) miles north of

. ‘an explosion in the air, estima@t€d
i Homerville, Georgia,

b. 1248 hours: Maxwell AFB Tower reported seeing a ball of smoke which
appeared to be falling; estimated position five (5) miles north of runway #36.
search by B-25 reported negative,

eet Te

c. 1301 hours: Assorted reports of crashes and explosions as follows:

| (1) [J Marietta, Georgia, reported to Dobbins AFB,
Georgia, Fire Department that he saw explosion in the air,

estimated one-quarter mile south of Smyrna, Georgia. Object
resembled falling jet aircraft.

(2) Mr, SMMBMIMBMINIOS Atlonts, Georgia, reported seeing explosion

in the air resembling a falling jet.

(3) Birmingham, Alabama Airport Tower reported silver object falling
at bearing 135 degrees, forty miles southeast of Birmingham.
Small plane pilots reported smoke in same area at same time.

Gd. 1310 hours: Aircraft crash reported from Fhenix City, Alabama.
Search negative,

e. 1315 hours: Unidentified civilian, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, rerorted
seeing orange flash in sky, then falling objects.

ff. 1320 hours: Dobbins AFB, Georgia, Tower reported crash in vicinity
of iewnan, Georgia, southwest of Atlanta, Georgia.

g. 1325 hours: Airline pilot reported crash or explosion below his
altitude of 8,000 feet,

h. 1330 hours: + <a giana diaetat as Winona, Mississippi, reported jet

aircraft on fire in air approximately 25 miles east of Greenwood, Mississippi.

BUMPORD advised that he could furnish no further pertinent information.

9, At 1845 hours, 30 November 1954, r,  ——_——iiipoeemmemmmemee: )). +

gomery, Alabama, telephonically advised the writer that at 1400 hours, this date,

he had observed a large ex:losion followed by a mass of white flame and black

smoke, due north of Montgomery, Alabama, SE 2c vised that after the explosion,
which he did not hear, he saw an object zig-zagging downward from the flame puff.

s ‘ /

: +f ‘ : = fa ~. ricer
_ epee UNCLASSIFIED

Air Rescue Squadron presently had a helicopter in Sylacauga to obtain the object
reported to have fallen in that area, and it was expected to return to Maxwell AFL

at approximately 1715 hours.

Fe a= ee

i

6. At 1700 hours, 30 November 1954, the late edition of the Alabama Journé:.
a local newspaper, was screened for publicity concerning the cited reports, The
following item was listed on the front page of said newspaper and is quoted

verbatim below:

"PILOT REPORTS BLAST 60,000 FEET ABOVE MONTGOMERY

"A pilot flying over Montgomery early this afternoon reported sighting
of an explosion of an unidentified object over Montgomery, about 60,000 feet

up.
"The cbject exploded about 1:30. The pilot was not identified.

"Meanwhile, a resident of the Cloverland area reported she saw an object,
which she described as larger than a fireworks display, disintegrated before
it hit the ground,

"Police said they did not have any report of the alleged explosion and
the Highway Fatrol reported that a search was on in the Sylacauga area for
rejorted unidentified object which fell with a flash in an area north of
Montgomery and southeast of Birmingham,

"Reports received here at 2 p.m. said what appeared to be an explosion
was heard high over Sylacauga, An unidentified object fell through the roof
of a home and injured a woman,"

OT ee

7. At 1730 hours, 30 November 1954, R. B. ROBERTS, Captain, 25792A, 48th
Air Rescue Squadron, pilot of helicopter referred to previously, returned from
Sylacauga, Alabama, and released to Special Agent ATCHLEY the object which
allegedly fell through the roof of a house in Sylacauga. The object was estimated
to weigh approximately nine (9) pounds, and appeared to be of rock or metallic
substance, and was of black or charcoal color, ROBERTS advised that he had ob-
tained this object from Mayor EDWARD J. HOWARD and Chief of Folice J. D. ASKCRAFT
at Sylacauga, Alabama, ROBERTS stated ASHCRAFT informed him to the effect that
Mps. HEWLETT HODGES, Oak Grove Community, three (3) miles east of Sylacauga, had
reported to him that between 1245 and 1300 hours, 30 November 1954, the object
fell through the roof of her house while she was lying on the couch, and struck
her on the body, ASHCRAFT stated to the best of his knowledge, the object was
not hot when it struck Mrs, HODGES, nor was it hot when he obtained it from Mrs,

HODGES,

é io et rece

ES Tae

i 8. At 1800 hours, 30 November 1954, Ist Lt, GEORGE R. BUMFORD, Flight
i Service Center, furnished the log book of 48th Air Rescue Squadron Operations for

.
. , °
ra , ¢ , ~
ee ee ut mou |
‘ 4 » > 1 ous a

17. On 1 Lecember 1954, LANZ and TENNILLE, accompanied by Special Agent
ATCHLEY and the writer, interviewed Professor FREDERICK k. MORRIS, Geologist,
Arctic-Desert-Tropic Information Center, Research Studies Institute, concerning
the object. After considerable deliberation and examination of the object, Dr.
MORRIS advised that due to present circumstances of urgency to forward object
to Wright-Patterson AFB, which would permit him only a very limited examination
of the object, he could identify it only as "either a stone meteorite or an
earthly peridotite".

18, On 1 December 1954, JAMES G. PRATT, Colonel, Commander, Maxwell AFB, was
briefed on all available pertinent information concerning the object by Srecial
Agent ATCHLEY, M/Sgt. LANZ, M/Sgt. TENNILLE and the writer. At this time Colonel
FRATT telephonically contacted the Operations Officer, 4602nd AISS, Ent AFB,
Colorado, and requested that Headquarters to telephonically contact the Mayor of
Sylacauga, Alabama, in an effort to satisfactorily explain the necessity for USAF
examination of the object and thus avoid any publicity adverse to US‘F concerning
the method by which it was obtained from the Mayor of Sylacauga, This step was
taken in view of increasing publicity resulting from numerous and frequent protests
made by Mr. HEWLETT HODGES concerning the USAF obtaining and withholding the
object. It was determined from local newspapers that HODGES had this date obtainec
an attorney for the purpose of recovering the alleged meteorite from the USAF.

19. The following information from the Montgomery Advertiser, a newspaper of
Montgomery, Alabama, and from the Birmingham Post-Heraid, a Birmingham, Alabama
newspaper, both of 1 December 1954, is quoted verbatim below:

"FRAGMENT OF METEORITE CRASEES SYLACAUGA HOME

"SYLACAUGA, Ala., Nov. 30 (AF)— A meteorite crashed through the roof of a
house here today and slightly injured Mrs. Hewlett Hodges, 32.

a, ‘el

"George Swindle, field representative of the U.S. Geological Surevy, tested
the nine-pound object and identified it as a sulphide meteorite.

"A mysterious explosion in the Sylacauga area, sbout 55 miles southeast of
Birmingham, set, off a three-state search today in which 35 or 40 planes took part.
But there were no planes reported missing.

"The explosion was seen as far scuth as Fhenix City, on the Alabama-Georgia
border.

"Dr. Walter B. Jones, Alabama state geologist, ssid evidently a metcor exploded
in southeast Alabama, and ims. Hodges was hurt by a particle of it.

"Swindle, who is condvcting a water survey in Sylacauga, said after he identi-
fied the meteorite, it was taken to Maxwell jir Force Ease at Montgomery, ‘where
the Air Force is required to examine such strange objects'.

ei aa Ta

 ammtainesiceesra- UNCLASSIFIED
.

10, At 1915 hours, 30 November 1954, JUHN BABCOCK, Colonel, Chief, Special
Weapons Branch, Command and Staff College, examined the object with Geiger
Counters which revealed no indication of radio activity.

11, At 2120 hours, 30 November 1954, RODMAN REDARD, Captain, Duty Officer,
Directorate, Special Investigations, Washington, D. C., was telephonically advisea
of the above related events which had transpired as of this time, in compliance
with AFR 200-2, by Special Agent ATCHLEY.

12. On 1 December 1954, three (3) views of the object were photographed by
the Maxwell AFB Alert Fhotograrher, These photographs are attached as Inclosure #1.

13. At 1025 hours, 1 December 1954, JOSEFE CYBULSKI, Major, Headquarters,
Air Defense Command, Ent AFB, Colorado, telephonically contacted Special Agent
ATCFLEY requesting information concerning the unidentified flying object which
landed at Sylacanga, Alabama, 30 November 1954. CYBULSKI was furnished all per-
tinent information available in compliance with AFR 20°-2 dated 12 August 1954.
CYBULSKI advised thet an Intelligence Team from Flight 2C, 4602nd Air Intelligence
Service Squadron, 35th Air Division, Dobbins AFB, Marietta, Georgia, consisting
of M/Sgts. LANZ and TENNILLE, had departed Dobbins AFE this date to conduct inter-
views at Lawson AFB, Georgia, and Fhenix City, Alabama, then would report to
Maxwell AFB, Alabama, to Special Agent ATCHLEY for the purpose of obtaining in-
formation concerning the object and, if possible, to obtain the object itself.
CYBULSKI suggested that the 8th District OSI could either release the object to
the AISS Team or could forward it to ATIC, 'right-Fatterson ‘FE, Ohio. CYBULSKI
edvised that the above action was required in order to effect compliance with

epplicable provisions of AFR 200-2,

14. On 1 December 1954, hr, CERI. Public Informetion Officer, and
Dr. EXNST STUHLINGER, Guided Missile Expert, Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Alabama,
examined the object and discussed the events with Special Agent ATCELEY, Dr.
STUELINGER advised Special Agent ATCHLEY the object was not part of any equipment

or materiel in use at their station,

15. On 1 December 1954, Special Agent ATCHLEY teleyhonically contacted Mr.
GILBERT R. LEVY, Chief, Counter Intelligence Investigations Division, Directorate,
Srecial Investigations, Washington, D. C., and briefcd him on all pertinent
information available at this time regarding the incident.

16. On 1 Decembcr 1954, GEBHARD LANZ, M/Sgt., AF 33131779, and CARL G.
TENNILLE, M/Sgt., AF 6973086, Flight 2C, 4602nd Air Intelligence Service Squadron,
Dobbins iFB, Georgia, contacted Srecial Agent ATCHLEY ond were briefed on all
pertinent information available, by Special agent ATCHLEY and the writer. LANz
edvised that they had already obtained 211 information contained in Log Book of
Flight service Center, concerning the unidentified flying obdjcet and desired to
odtain the object itself for return to Dobbins AFB and further transmission to
Wright-Fatterson AFB. The object was at this time released to LANZ and TENNILLE
by Special Agent ATCHLEY.

ahah
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m4 \ _ 1

—

wen )

"Plunges Through Roof of House——
"METEORITE HITS SYLACAUGA WIFE

3 States View Air Explosions
"Woman is First Person in History Known to be Struck by Sky Object

"A large meteor exploded high in the heavens above Alabama yesterday cfternco
and a piece of it fell through the roof of a Sylacauga house and bruised 2 31-year
old housewife.

"Mrs qi, 2 pluup, cheerful woman, was lying asleep on a sofa in
her living room when she became the first person in history known to hive been

struck by a meteorite,

"The fragment, torn loose from the meteor by one of three terrific explosions
of fire and smoke, smashed a three-foot wide hole in the roof of the Hodges' home,

"The meteorite, identified by experts 2s being of the sulphide variety,
landed on rs . ee hip and ‘made a big bruised place’,

"'It also hit me on the hand and it swelled up', she said.

"Her hand still was swollen last night, and was turning blue-black and grecn.

"She said the bruises of her hip were even more colored.

"The object which struck hrs. was identified as a meteorite (2 metcor
which strikes the ground) by George Swindle, ficld representative of the U. S,
Geological Survey.

"The explosion which tore the meteor to bits hajpened at 12:45 p.m. and
caused wild excitement not only in Sylacsug2 where everyone scemed to have bern
viewing the heavens, but also in other parts of Alabama, Georgio and mississipri,.

"The explosion probably occured some 40 miles up, but was herd over 2 wide
distance and seen even further.

" Birmingham man who saw the explosion but did not hear it, said 2 msh-
rooned-shaped cloud formed in the direction of Sylacauga from Birmingham and
lasted for about 15 minutes before dissepziting.

"Observers in Sylacaug2 could see the snoke but could not tell its shape since
it was directly overhead.

"The piece which hit Mrs. QQ wes cxanined by Swindle on the scene. He
harpened to be in Sylacaugs conducting a water survey.

}
4
;
.

UJ

UNCLASSIFIED

"Swindle said Mayor Ed J. Howard has assured Dr. Jones the meteorite will be
placed in the state museum at the University of Alabama when it is returned by th:
fir Force.

"Sylacauga police rushed to the Hodges home when the object crashed through
the roof about 1p. mn.

"Mrs te. she was lying on a couch in the living room of the frame
house when the meteorite smashed a three-foot wide hole in the room and came
tumbling through the ceiling. 4

"'Tt hit our radio at one end of the couch and bounced off on me. It hit me
on the arm and hip', she said.

"Police summoned 2. doctor when they arrived and irs (i vs treated for
bruises. She was reported in good condition tonight.

"'We had a little excitement around here tod:y', she told her husband when he
came home from work.

"'4 meteorite fell through the roof,'

ar: a tree surgeon and knew nothing of the incident until he came home
from work tonight. He had been trimming trees for the telephone company.

"tT don't believe I want to talk to anybody celse for a while’, said Mrs.
'I'm kind of tired'.

eg 3: his wife told him the house had been full of people all afternoon.
"'She said there mst have been severnl hundred', he added,

— said he had no insurance on the house, and hadn't estimnted the damage.
He said the radio apparently was damaged extensively.

"Swindle said the meteorite was about six inches in diameter. He said the
inside was a metalic, grey granular substance, which resrondied to tests given for
sulphide. The outside coating was a black satin oppcaring sudstance.

"Dr. Jones said tonight he would welcome the meteorite, since the University
museum does not have such an object from Alnabana,"

a2 Tete

rer

ont

See

UNCLASSIFIED

"A woman wso lived directly across the street from ‘a hore, Mrs.
‘tegen in her front yard planting shrubbery when the fragment fell.

"tBut I didn't hear anything’, she saic. ‘I didn't even know anything h:¢
happenec until somebody came out and told me abcut it’.

"irs. Q@QMRMSoicd she didn't hear anything either.

"She was asleep on 2 sofa in the living room, sleeping with her face towxrd
the back of the sofa, her left hip up.

"When the metecrite hit her roof, it slantec across the room anc. struck her
on the hip anc injurec her hane anc arm which were lying on the hip.

"tT woke up and thought the house was falling down', irs. Qjes-ic.
in end

ree eneey arremereneneenael was in the next room sewing. She came running
asked me if the house was falling down.

"tT said I didn't know. I thought it was the chimey. I got up anc started
out of the house. Then my hip started hurting.

"tT hadn't even seen the rock.'

"Then she and her mother found the hole in the roof 2n¢ saw the ‘rock’ on
the floor. They callec the police.

"'There wasn't any smell or anything to the rock,' said irs. Qe

"Folice Lt. W. T. Van Sandt, when he arrived, realizec what must have happened.
and took the cbject to the police station where it was icentified by the U. 5,
geologist.

"Van Sanct said that the object was cold to the touch when he arrived.

3 SP -- her mother had net cisturbec the metecrite.

"But her clothing was not scorchec enc she was not burnec on
it hit her.’

"'It's a good thing it didn't hit me in the head,' saic —— | ‘it
might have killed me,.'

"lips QR thought
a)

corner anc then bouncec

+

the arm where

t the object had fallen atop a radic set in the
ere The racic was damagec.

“'But now I don't believe it cic,’ she snid. 'The radic might have been hit
by « piece of the ceiling or roof.'

t
-

!

/

IE

eo
e

( —sUNCLASSIFIED

"After he viewed it, an Air Force cartain in a helijocopter landed in the
small city 50 miles southeast of Birmingham and whisked the meteorite away So

Maxwell Field at Montgomery.

"Swindle said Sylacauga Mayor Ed J. Howard gave assurances that the object
will be placed in the State Museum of Natural History at the University of
Alabama when it is returned by the Air Force,

"But Mes, QRRRMMe husband, who didn't know about the incident until he got
home from work early last night, was furious about the loss of the meteorite.

"tT om going to demand that the Air Force return the stone to me', he said.
'They had no business taking it awny in the first place.'

ae not get to see the meteorite before it was flown away.

WM on employe. of Bell Telerhone Co., said he theught he could 'get
enough evidence that the thing fell in my house.!

"The meteorite which hit ros . EP wv cience nlnost 10 pounds,

"Police Chief W. D. Ashcraft ane other officers who handled it before it was
turned over to the Air Force, said it was a metallic object, black anc scorched-

looking.

"Swindle, the geologist, said the meteorite was six inches in Ccinmeter. He
said the inside was a metallic, gray granular substance which responced to tests

od

given for sulphides.

"The outside conting was a black satin appearing substance,
"Besides striking rs. aaa the meteorite caused quite 2 stir in Sylacnuga.

"Almost everyone in town saw the smoke which followed the explosion and 2
goodly number saw the explosicn itself.

 anreemrated a country store operator and farmer, was outside his hore
when Me heard the explosions.

"'First there was 2 loud boom', he said. ‘'Then in 2 few seconds there was
another one and then a third’.

GEE sonic after the first and second explosions, he located the cirection
ef the noise anc locked aloft and saw the third. There wns a2 little fire ane 2
lot of black smoke.

"He was about two riles from the Hodges house.

2" ae

2...

“Police summoned a doctor who took iws, o his office and 4-rayed her.

He did not find any broken bones and sent her home,

"Her husband did not know of any of this until he arrived home from work.

"MWe had a little excitement around here today', she [eae in a wifeiy
fashion. ‘A meteor fell through the roof.!

‘To ae home is one of the oldest houses in the Sylacauga area.
a rambling wooden house set among groves of old trees.

it is

"One witness to the explosion said that before it exploded, the meteor
appeared to be a plane on fire,

"'It was a blaze of fire with a lot of smoke', said Miss MMMM 22, a
waitress at the DeSoto Grill near Sylacauga.

"She was standing outside waiting for a bus with two other women,

"tOne of them said to look at the plane on fire', hiss me said. ‘We looked

and there it was.'

"Just at that moment, she said, it blew ur in a blinding flash and a lot of

noise,

"It appeared to come out of the southeast.

"Several other persons in Sylacauga thought it was a burning plane — and
shortly to look for the crash.

a search with some 30 or 40 airplanes got under way

"There were variances in the descriptions of the smoke from the explosions.

"In Sylacauga, it appeared black.

"In Birmingham and in other places at a distance, it arreared white.

"There was immediate reaction to the meteorite story from over the nation.

"Experts agreed unanimously that —  <e the first rerson known to
have been struck by a meteorite.

"D *ameteur astronomer and registrar at Birmingham-Southern

College, said he never had heard of it before.
ott College

"OM | 222 of the astronoay derartment at Agnes So
at Atlanta, said thet the injury of — was the first that he knew of that

could be attributed to a meteor.

11

|
( Og. Janes #. Pratt) it was mutually agreed that the 4602nd should obtain

the object in accordance with the provisions of AFR 200-2 (UFOB Reportinc)

‘
‘ ,*

The ooyect was returned to Flt 2-C headquarters locsted at Dobbins AFB, Geors

“~_- *

“

ngements for mailing it were intiated. A complete narrative reno--

> “-«
-

=<
ry"
i?
i |
mo
i
H
a)

is listed as attachment #2 of this file.

On 2 December 1954, Captain Hardin, Chief, ATIAE-5, received a televnone
cell from Col. Dennison (Exec. Off. of the 48th Air Rescue Squadron, Maxvell.
Col. Dennison stated thet he was “under pressure" to return the object +o
‘tr: , ag Capt. Hardin assured Col. Dennison that ATIC would not harm toe
ints Wena of the object in any way during the examination, Capt
Hardin suggested Col Dennison contact Mrs, end reassure her the obJec*
would be returned to her as soon as paanities

As of 3 December 1954, the object had not been received at ATIC. Capt
Hardin, ATIAE=-5, placed 2 call to Flt 2-C of the 4602nd to inquire us to it
status. Prior authorization for direct contact with a field unit had been
obtained from Ha 4602na AISS, Ent AFB, Colorado. Capt. Hardin was inforand
by ist Lt Richard C. Vaughn, OCI, Flt 2-C, that he had encountered some
difficulty in transporting the object to ATIC. He stated that he would sn
immediately by First CLass mail and register it.

On 6 December 1954, the object, encased in a wooden box was rece+*"s

ATIC and signed for by T/Sat Drepperd,. ATIAE-5. The odject wis {owed Lave.

: 2 : - - . . er } 4 See in
examined visually by Dr. Robinson, ATIAE-4, whose evaluation is 1+5°°"

attachment #3 of this file.

ELLIE TA | , UNCLASSIFIED

"Numerous astronomers state in books on the subject that no one ever has been
struck.

"But the fragment which fell from the sky over Alabama yesterday is only one
of billions which strike the earth's atmosphere each day.

"Most of them are tiny particles of sand-like material, remnants of lost
worlds that exploded eons ago and swarm around the sun like knats.

"Some are in regular orbits and when the earth passes through these meteor
orbits, more are seen than normally.

"Only rarely does one last more than an instant of 2 second before being
burned to a crisp by earth's atmosphere.

"The burning of the metcors is caused by their tremendous speed as they come
into contact with the earth's atmosthere.

"Meteors generally start burning at about 100 miles up and burn out before
they descend very far. If one is large cnough te burn until it reaches an altitude
of about 40 miles, it explodes in a manner similar to one which blew uy; over

Sylacauga.

"The pieces then drift down over wide 2zreas, hitting the ground at only
moterate speeds because the air resistance slows them down.

"The fact that the sylacauga meteor exrloded at 2 tremendous height is sub-
stantiated by the fact that the explosion was seen from three states.

"It was seen at Fhenix City and a wild rerort started there that the meteor
was a flying saucer and that a woman saw a man get out of it.

"Guardsmen went out in planes, jeeps, ambulances and heliocopter_ trying to
find the object.

"But Guardsmen were unable to find anything, even though they scoured the
areAvA.s

"The bright flash across the sky was rerorted simultaneously at Atlanta,
Newnan and Columbus, Ga., several parts of Alnb-ma, and as far west as Greenville,

hiss,

"In Atlanta, the Air Force and State Fatrol reccived several reports of a
probable plane crash near tiewnan, 40 miles southwest of Atlanta. Two patrol cars
searched the area for two hours before calling off the search.

12

os arte UNCLASSIFIED

"Radio Station WOOH in Newnan reported numerous calls from persons who said
they saw a mysterious, flaming object in the sky.

"A Civil Aeronautics Adm., employe. in Montgomery saw the falling meteor,
He described it as 'a bright light like a falling star with a trail of smoke
behind it' which fell across the horizon from a great height.

’

"\ Maxwell Air Force pilot who was flying at high altitude also sighted it
and gave a similar description.

"National Guard Sgt. Joe Clark of Elba was with the Guard in Phenix City.
He said it appeared smaller tnan a plane,

"In Sylacauga, the descriptions of the exzlosions were a3 varied as the
persons who heard it.

"To some, it was just loud 'boom, boom, bcoms’.

"Others heard s:nall crackling noises and porping sounds between the big
exrlosions.

"A Sylacauga city councilman, B. J. Fhillips said it sounded like thunder to
him, He was at home restiug after lunch when the explosion occurred.

"Being the first person to be hit by a falling meteorite was of almost no
moment to Mrs hen asked how she felt about the dubious honor, she said:

'Il feel bruised, '
"And what kind of a day was it?
"It was a day when the stars fell on Alabama at last,"

20. On 6 December 1954, cory of report of incident as written by LANZ and
TENNILLE was received from Flight 20, 4602nd AiSS, Lobbins AFB, Georgia, and is
quoted verbatim: (Details only)

"FLIGHT 2-C, 4602D AISS
35TH AIR DIV (D), DOBBINS AFB, UFOB
MARIETTA, GEORGIA

NARRATIVE OF EVE)ITS RELATING TO UFOB SEE} AT SYLACAUGA, ALABAMA(GECREF: GJDD 4510)

1. Received telephone call from Hq 46020 /1IS5, Colorado Springs, Colorado at
1/0100Z, Major Cybulski informed Sgt Lanz to proceed to the foll places and contact
the foll persons and/or agencies relative to investigation of report:

a. Atlanta Municipal Airport, Air Route Traffic Control Center (GEOREF:
GJFL 3646).

or
— ¢ i

\

me py Ee he | tH
U NM Ll Lad od a4 bbe
13

b. Lawson Air Force Base, Fort Benning, Georgia (GEOREF: GJFC 0520).

c. Phenix City, Alobama, Mr, ii ggarges (600252 :

GJEC 5928).

d. Maxwell Air Farce Base, Flight Service, 48 ARS, Major Kelso (GLOR:F:
GJDC 3928).

e. Sylacauga, Alabama, LS qaimaiemailinlataemmmte COREE : GJDD 4510).

2. At 1/0120Z another call was received from Hq 4602d; Major De Bruler and
Major Cybulski informed Sgt Lanz that a Ti. msg rept had been received at 35th Air
Div (Def), DAFB, Marietta, Georgia (GEOREF: GJFD 2954) relative to UFCB re: TT msg
M 30/2243Z from Comdr Flight Service, Maxwell AFB, Alabama.

3. A check was made with 35th Division D/I and a coyy of above cited msg was
picked up prior to departure for investigation »y 1/Sgt's Lanz and Tennille at
1/0210Z,. Team utilized mil vehicle.

4. At 1/0330Z team arrived at Atlanta Municipal Airport, Air Route Traffic
Control Center, and the following information was obtained from H. W, Duke, Senior
Controller ARTCC, Atlanta, Georgia (Note: Extracted verbatim from ARTCC log):

a. At 30/1854Z Montgomery(MGm) and Maxwell(XF) Tower reported explosion
at high altitude and ball of fire trailing smoke falling north of
Montgomery, Alabama(MGM).

b. At 30/1855Z Atlanta, Georgia(ATL) Tower reported bright flash west of
airport, Dobbins AFB(MGE) Tower reported this to ATL also, AF 2275 B-
47 witnessed the same thing and advised object above 34,000 feet. Mr.
Campbell at (TCL) Tuscaloosa, Alabama reported to TCL the same thing.

c. At 30/19007 Maxwell(MAF) Flight Service advised they were sending cut
a SA-16 from Rescue Squadron to investigate.

d, At 30/1905 Dobbins AFB has no B-47's out. All IFR in (MGM) area
accounted for,

e, At 30/1909Z Tuscaloosa, Alabema (TCL) advised Mr. Fulman of TCL
University observed bright orange flame and pieces falling east of
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Birmingham, Alab-ma (BHM) advised it appeared te
be bearing 135 degrees from (BHM). Montgomery (}.Gh.) advised due north
of Montgomery. AF 2275 (B-47) advised altitude looked to be 60,000
feet. Flight Service advised 30/13102Z.

f. At 30/1928Z Alabama State Fatrol sending unit to Smith!

-

L
(6 miles NE of thsnix City on U.S. 280) to investigate
rejorted hitting ground.

, AEDES TEE 2 4
ia J

eae ee.

Qe

Ce

Ammann oncLassiried

8, At 1/1900Z Intell Team arrived Cperations Office, Maxwell AFB, Alabama,

The names and locations of the following personnel were obtained:

Col K, L. Atchley
District Commander
8th District OSI (16)
Maxwell AFB

Capt Marsten

Operations Officer

48th Air Rescue Squadron
Maxwell AFB

T/Sgt Jack L. Fotter
Control Tower Operator
A8th Air Kuescue Squadron
Maxwell AtB

T/Sgt Potter met Set Lanz at operations for completion of ATIC Form
# 164(Ref incl # 2).

Sgt Tennille contacted Capt Marsten, 48th Air Rescue Squadron, and
was informed that five helicopters were dispatched to different
locations given at time of flash and/or explosion. One of the
helicopters piloted by Capt Rogers landed at Sylacauga, Alabama, He
acquired the object and returned with same to Maxwell AFB, (Itinerary
of flights being forwarded to Fit 2-C vin air mail). 48th Air Rescue
Squadron transferred object to Col Atchiey of OSI.

Set Tennille phoned Col Atchley from 48th ARS and was informed thit
Hq 46C2d AISS had contacted Col Atchley rcgarding object. It was
decided that Flt 2-C, 4602d AISS would assume custody of object.
Set's Lanz and Tennille proceeded to the District OSI Office and were
met there by Col Atchley who informed them that according to AFR
200-2 dtd 12 Aug 54, he would relinquish the object to Flt 2-C's

investigating team.

Because of unfavorzble publicity incurred by the acquisition of the
object, Col Atchley suggested that the matter should be coordinated
with the Base Comdr, Col James E. Fratt, 3800 Air Base Group, Maxwell
AFB, Alabama. Col Atchley and Sgt':s Lanz and Tennille proceeded to
Col Fratt's office where he was tricfed on the situation; He
suggested a call to Comdr 4602d 4155S, outlining action for pacifying

the local people involved in Sylacaugs, Algbama - specifically the
Mayor, Ed J. Howard; and Mrs he individual struck by

rer
poe | 4 3
< | = ‘ts wl

~~. * nm 7
Set ok
5 ee A)

5 wt met

16

oe
©
7
:
s

| ; (
| ARIAT TIES TNCLASSIFIED

At 30/20302Z Birmingham, Alabama(BHM) Tower advised Weather Bureau had
received a report that a meteorite had fallen at Sylacauga, Alabama,

Maxwell Flight Service(MXFFS) advised 30/2032Z.

At 30/2108Z Alabama State Patrol advised Birmingham(BHM) Tower a
woman was injured (broken hip) by a falling object near Sylacauga,
Alabama, Woman in hospital at Sylacauga, Alabama.

At 30/2115Z Eastern Airline Aircraft Trip # 181 advised Birmingham
(BHM) Tower of the following: sighted a helicopter in a field 140
degrees bearing from Birmingham, Alabama and 210 degrees besring from
Anniston, Alabama(ANB), Appeared to be a fire in the field and
helicopter appeared to be investigating.

5. Team departed Atlanta Municipal Airport at 1/0430Z for Lawson Air Force
Base, Fort Benning, Georgia and arrived 1/09002.

6. At 1/1300 —_72v1~_') 75 lian), Chief Dispatcher at Lawson AFL and

FC Harold S. Murray of the Dispatchers Office LATE were interviewed. They related
the following information:

a. At 30/1850Z telephone call was received fron  —_—__—ilime, Fhenix

Ce

City, Alabama, reporting the sighting of a falling object. Since Jones
inferred that this was obviously an aircraft crash, emergency
procedures were instituted by Lawson Operations Officer, Refer to

incl # 1, UFOB rept (Completed ATIC form 164).

At 30/1915Z two helicopters were dispatched to alleged crash site
with Capt Charles D, Lang in charge. Simmitaneously, a ground rescue
party departed to search the area, Both parties were recalled at
30/2130Z. Results of search were negative.

At 30/1945Z telerhone call was received from—=qgggMes i th

Station, Alnbama reporting falling object.

At 30/1950Z Cart D. W. Read, 464 Try Carr Wg, Fope AFB, Fort Bragg,
North Carolina phoned Dispatcher (Warren) that a moving odject was
observed from downtown Columbus, Georgia (GEOXEF: GJFC 0329), bearing
270 to 280 degrees. The object with a long brilliant trail of fire

exploded at arrroximately 40 degrees azimuth from surface.

7. An unsuccessful attempt was made to locnite Capt Read, An ATIC form 164
USAF Technical Information Sheet) was left with hr. arren for completion and
forwarding to Flight 2-0, 4602d AISS, DAFB, Maricttn, Georgia by Capt Read. Team
departed for Maxwell AFB, Alabama at 1/15002.

rege
ak ond fb OS.
ow to

— ae | _ “~~
‘ ‘
| ~~" \ nl Oa

—_— fi
 eeeersreny

Sn a

UNCLASSIFIED

the object. Since AFR 200-2 outlines the cisposition of UFOS matter

‘ found, Col Pratt suggested we pick up object and proceed to Dobbins

AFB, Marietta, Georgia.

f, Col Atchley suggested that the object be examined by Dr. Frederick
K, Morris of the Directory of Research Studics Institute, Arctic,
Desert and Tropic Information Center at Maxwell AFB. Dr. Morris
stated that he was equipped for complete analysis of object, if so
requested. He believed that its composition was "either a stone
meteorite or cn earthly peridotite.'’ Furthermore, he sugsested that
the Smithsonian Institute at Washington, D. C.(GEORLF: GJNJ 5856)
would be intcrested in its study.

9, At 1/2330Z team derarted MAFB and arrived st Flight Hcadquartcrs at 2/050C2Z
10. Investigators' Comments:

Because of events related in par Se, it was decided by the team not t<«
visit hrs. QQ immediately but to return to Dirth, harietta, Georgia for quick
transfer of object to TIC. If, however, it is deemed necessary, Mrs, 7D ee
can be interviewed by Flight 2-C.

Regarding object and source of origin, the following opinions were
reached. From opinions given by sources considered reliable, it is believed that .n
object of similar size. weight 2nd hepe, travcolling at the high spced normally
attributed to a meteorite, would have smashed through the floor anc buried itself

and dropped on floor according to hrs. QP story to newspapers (Ref incl
# 3). Object was forwarded to ATIC, Wright-Fattcrson 4FB, Ohio for further analysis.

em into the earth. Instead, it merely penetrated thc roof and cciling, hit is.

RICHARD C VAUGHN
lst Lt., USAF
Officer in Charge"

21. This report is classified CONFIDENTI’-L in accordance with paragraph 7,
AFR 124-1,

SOOTH AIR BASE wIG, MAXWELL .FR. ALSBAMA

DIRECTOR, SPECIAL INVESTIGATIUNS, HS, USF, WASHINGTON D. C.
Cc

eh be

COMMANDER, AIR DEFENSE COMMAND, ENT FB, CCLORADO
STRICT OFFICE NO. 14, LOWRY AsB, COLORADO

—)
4
uw)
rj

’ ~~
; . =_—
; + ’ nd te
7 7 eS —_ a *
- . “

Inclosures: (Cont'd)

COMMANDER, WRIGHT-FATTERSON AFB, OHIO, ATTN: ATIC UNCLASSIFIED
DISTRICT OFFICE NO. 5, WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB, OHIO

Photographs, three (3) views of UFOB.

CLOSED

1é

On 6 December 1954, Capt. Hardin placed to Col Bloomer, AFOIN-X, and
infoynad him that the object was being examined at ATIC. Col. Bloozer stated
ne had received a Congressional inquiry on the matter as well as requests for
press releases. Col. Bloomer also stated that the Smithsonian Institute (Wash
DC) would like to examine the object. He recommended that Capt Hardin contact
Mr. Henderson of the Institute relative to the matter. On the same date,

Capt. Hardin received a telegram from the ‘irs ggg owner of the meteorite.
This message is entered into this file as attachment #4.

On 7 December 1954, T/Sgt Drepperd placed a call to Mr. Henderson of the
Smithsonian. Mr. Henderson agreed tnere is no question of who is the rightful
owner, however, any type of meteorite is considered of national scientific
value, and the National Museum (Smithsonian) should have an opportunity
to examine it. Mr. Henderson furthe stated that, if possible, they would in-
form = Bo: the true monetary value of the meteorite. T/Sgt. Drepperd
recommended that Mr. Henderson contact Col. Bloomer to make arrangements for
acquision of the meteorite from the A.F.

Shortly after the above mentioned phone conversation, Col Bloomer called
Capt Hardin and informed him that a suiteble agreement had been accomplished
between the Smithsonian and Mrs .qgggMPoncressional Representative. Plans
called for the AF to release the meteorite to the Congressman, who in turn would
loan it to the Smithsonian for study. Col Bloomer then wmauested the meteorite
to be forwarded to AFOIN-X. Col Bloomer also reauested a short report of ATIC's
analysis for press release. information.

The meteorite was crated in the same wooden box it was received in and

air mailed at 1200 hrs to Col Bloomer. (Col Bloomer aclmowledged receipt

via telephone at 100 hrs, 8 Dec 54).

ATIC PRELIMINARY EVALUATION 2 December 1954

The UFO which struck the house in S,lacauga, Alabama on 30 Nov 54
was definitely a meteorite, very probably @ member of the Andromid
Shower always observed with varying degrees of prominence from Nov. 24
to Dec. 7. Great displays of them were observed in 1572 and 1885 when
many people thought "the world was coming to en end.” The Andromid
shower of meteors follow the orbit of Biela's comet which had a period
of 6.6 years. The comet broke into two parts in 1646 and disappeared
after 1852. The great showers of 1872 and 1885 occurred when the comet
should have reappeared. The meteors ordinarily e“slow and leave long
trails but their speeds depend upon what part of the day, or night
they are seen; and it is possible to see members of the shower 2lmost
any time of the night. Only the larger ones, however, could register
their occurence by an explosion during the daylight hours. Some are
seen every year because the debris of the comet has been strewn along
the whole path of the comet and the earth in its motion around the sun

crosses the path of the comet on Nov 27 each year.

Dr. L.V. Robinson
1 December 1954

—- i
ar TacHa hy "3

ROUTING

“MUNICATIONS CENTER NO,

|_ JOINT MESSAGEFORM | "|

/¥

30h j * OF AL, ie is Cop" j 4

niles . /, Be

at Ins NeaNyoy “Y
ad

“ ’ , 4 Oey
SPACE ABOVE FOR COMMUNICATIONS CENTER ONLY

FROM: (Originator) DATE-TIME GRouP SECURITY CLASSIFICATION

0620452 DEC 54 | UNCLASSIPTED

COMDR ATIC ; | PRECEDENCE | ACTION | INFORMATION
rom, ROUTINE

ee metas

BOOK MESSAGE IZ] ORIGINAL MESSAGE

D/I HQ USAF WASH DC CRYPTOPRECAUTION

MULTIPLE ADDHESS YES 1 NO
ee LJ

mel pa REFERS TO MESSAGE:

IDENTIFICATION CLASSIFICATION
INFO:

FOR POLICY AND MANAGEMENT GROUP

FROM AFOIN-ATIAE fast LE

The Alabama meteorite is made up of dense stony matter with many grains of nickel-

“| tron alloys (aerolite type meteorite). Tne outer portion of the meteorite is

= blackened showing evidence of heat erosion from friction with the earth's atmo-

= | spnere, The original meteorite was much larger than the part recovered since it was
i] seen to explode from Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi. Some other fragments dis-

3] triputed over a very large area remain to be recovered, and much of it must have

| fallen as ashes. The speed of the meteorite when it entered the earth's atmo-

Phd

nere was probably in excess of 15 miles per second. Evidence indicates that

i)
we

cs

the

Alabama meteorite was a member of the Andromid shower, occuring between 24
fiovember and 7 December, These generally come from the north as in this case. If

it is from this shower, it is from the debris of Biela's comet which Gisappeared

Fe ew «ee. ce ee ee oe

comet. have fallen for centuries.

——

=CURITY CLASSIFICATION

. UNCLASSIFIED PAGE =) OF 4) PAGES

RELEASING OFFICER'S SIGNATURE

ap A @| int to wh. A “A —-——
SYMBOL TELEPHONE
ATIAE!S 69216

2 T) FORM REPLACES NME FOR™ !73, 1 MAY @, = VU s USAF cO—10—83023-4 «UU. «&. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFiCz
! 1 OCT 49 7 y, 3 WHICH MAY SE USED, aay

ra

1 : vw
ar

~Tw¥6D wUS125 CT .DAAS!]7 CNS.eSNAG@25) FD

ABCRATCRY DEPT DAYTON OHIO: TLS CIN

VWN The PROPERTY ON WICH THE METORITE FELL AND CLAIM POSS

(225 PM DEC 6 54)

site /' bp. - hs

ATTACHMENL FY

phe te a _ =< «

ESS

8 December 195+

On 7 December 195%, ATIAZ-~5 was visited by Dr. Taylor end Mr. Castillo
fron the C & N Laboratory, WADC. They -visually examined the meteorite
ani agreed with Dr. Robinson's original evaluation. Mr. Castillo stated
he has been monitoring effects of ilonespheric propagation on H# radio
signals through an oscilloscope for the past two years. He has teen
especially interested in the returns he has teen receiving fron meteorite
trails. He continued that during the month of November, 1954, there had
been a mark increase in the meteorite activity. The attached photograph
ip one that he obteined on the hight of 21 Oct 1954 which vividly depicts
a fair size return of 2 meteorite trail. Mr. Castillo overates station
WAV in Springfield, Ohio. He coneluded that during the week of the
Alabama incident, he received unusual amounts of meteorite returns on his

eraph.

One set of the meteorite nhotogrorhs were siven to Dr. Taylor

vpon his request.

—

On 7 December 1954, ATIAS—5 was visited by Dr. Taylor and Mr. Castillo
fron the © &N Laboratory, WAOC., They -visually examined the meteorite
ani agreed with Ir. Fobinson's original evaluation. Mr. Castillo stated

he has been monitoring effects of lonespheric propagation on HF radio

signals through an oscilloscope for the past two years. He has been

especially interested in the returns he has been receivine from meteorite
trails. He continued that during the month of November, 1954, there had
been a mark increase in the meteorite activity. The attached photogravh
ig one that he obt-ined on the nicht of 21 Oct 1954 which vividly depicts
a fair size return of a meteorite trail. Mr. Castillo operates station
WAT in Soringfield, Ohio. He coneluded that during the week of the
Alabama incident, he received unusual amounts of meteerite returns on hie

eraphe

One set of the meteorite pvhotograchs were civen to Dr. Taylor

upon his request.

- s ~*~
30/1233/GRB

30/1209/CRB

/ +-

30/1310/GRB

39/1215/GRB
29/1320/GRB
30/1325/G2B

29/1330/GR3B

25/722 fron
30/1250/ RS

a >. TY °XRT Tr OT fF eS A ° fv?

~~ Th OA . :
held acd re) ‘ J fad i isd — Viv Dae So a Litas ad ofA

35 “November 1354
ivWille Ga.
by 2 elvilian
aircrart,
A prone call to it. Bunton Asstt Ons Officer at Nooly AFB,
revealed no further info,
Power Operstor reports call of Pire and smoke coing down 5 aties
north of runway 36, Ecramble tro 4-16's and one H-19,
assortment of reports of ernshes coring through et this
nt Service reports a seerch cof the aren north of Homerville
e25 revealed nothing. Flight Service revorts thet e
from Mariette, Ga. notified fire station who in turn
- 1
Voboins Are thet he sighter an explosion = mile south
of Smyma Ga. Objact resembled a falling jet. itr. Sheppard of
Atlanta reports sure explosion. Birminzhem tower reported thru
Maxwell Flight Service a silver object falling 40 miles Sz of
3 :
Birmingham on « bearing of 135°. Smell plene rilot reported

smoke in that general area.

Flight Service reports a

a. and Smith Ststion Ala. r

ern Phenix ie Police enroute to crash, 41s9 smoulance
anc ground party also enroute. Crash believed to be 2 jai

: A + Yaeed ree a ee
caloose, Ala. reported a bright orange flash

ivilians at Tuscal
with pieces falling

Doobins tower reports 2 crash in the Newnan, Ga. are
Southwest of Atlanta at Medres Int. on sirway green

a. Vicinity
5

r

Airline pilots flying in above vicinit; resorted = cresh or an
explosion below their eltitude 3000 ft,

At the moment ve have renorts of four ereshes in « frenersl ere
rumning from southeast to northwest over an crea of .annroximately
250 riles. Flisht Service reported a civilizcn i'r, =aggar? reported
a jet afire over Winone, Wiss. about 25 riles enst of Greenwood, iiss.
Two (2) airereft fror Creenville AFP, viss. proceeding to the scene.
ir. QB, of tle. CA” oriefed on 211 aveileble rerorts ve

have at this time. Reraiested to instigate = sesreh on a wheel
besis, using each incident reported es the hub of the wheel.

At present tine we heve five incidents sendine vith no ernszses

as yet confirmed,

i ve ( oF
ve SECURITY CLASSIFICATION (// o99)

FF -

DISPOSITION FORM

-_—_

—

i. —

| FILE NO. SUBJECT

| ATS2c letter of Transmittal

at haott ee a ia. heen e. “i, a. COMMENT NO. 1
Commander, ATIC Flignt 2-C, 44602D AISS 8 Dec 54

Wright-Patterson A¥B, Ohio Dobbins AvB, Marietta, Ga.

1. Transmitted herewith is true extract copy of Mission 109, dated 30.
| Movember 1954, taken from the 48th Air Rescue Squadron Controller's Log...

: 20 ‘Reference F2C-UFOB-1 (Narrative of Events Relating to Us0OB aetna
at Sylacanes, Alabama).

— —

' Ow ,
ogy, wa RICHARD C. VauUG
ft, Sah Ta ru ath 88 Ltg, USa?
: <td Officer in Charge

Ome one nee.

16—S4801-3 os) OU. 8. COVERS @ERT PPIs Tiac OFrict

, gE FORM Ss) 6 REPLACES 4ME FORM %, 1 OCT 48, WHICH MAY BE USED.
ell 1FE3 50

A TWX, reference attachment #5 was prepared and forwarded to AFOIN-X on

t Dap aaees 1954.
CONCLUSIONS:

Final evaluation, conductei by Dr. Robinson, is contained herein as
Attachment #6. The ne teroite was photographed by ATIRT-1 on 6 December 1954.
The three photographs are included in this file as Attachment #7. The

following organizations and individuals received copies of the photo's as

indicated:

l set contains three photographs.
Hq USAF - AFOIN-X¥ 2 sets
ATIAE-5 1 set
Dr. Taylor C&N Lab, WADC 1 set
Dr. Hynek 2 sets
Dr. Robinson - 2 sets
4602nd AISS 2 sets

See other side of this file for additional information pertaining to this

case.

e- —-- “ ra) OY ged ory wo be . . - - “~ - "es r ,
LSTti AIN & SQUADRON'S CONTROLLIES 0%

rt | een a ~ Ma
Pie, fe) ber 195 A
‘
- ~5 3 as PuirT ¢ ss 74s . we - a- $ . 4
: 30/2 ated i} wi" F/S renorts an explost Ye! -iles north o* Honusreville Ga,
tovarcs Ferarzon Ga. Exolosion in the cir reporte oF 2 atvilicen

30/122.9/GRB F/S resorts remp check st Moody AYS shors no overduvue eireratt.

—

30/1215/GRE A phone call to It. Banter Asstt Ons Officer at Mootly AFE,
4 © ttn

revested no further info,
- ’ or fe sesve, oe -_ 7 vee £ 8 . - ts rie ont wire + ae 7
39/124 3/GRE fower onerstor reports call of Fire sn? smoke going down 5 niles

. =. “7 ‘ ; s a ‘
north of runwey 356, Scramble twa OselS's end one K-19.

20/1209/GRB A verious sssortment of reyorts of ernshes coring through et this
time. Flisht Service reports a seereh of the area north of Homerville
Ca. b 25 revenaled nothinz. Flicht Service revorts thet «
x om Mariette, Gu. notified fire station who in turn
) Doboins AFP thet he Sizhted an explosion + rile south
of Smyma Ga. Object resembled e falling jet. ir. Shepperd of

tS seme explosion. Birminshom tower reported thru
Maxwell Flight Service a silver cobject falling 40 miles SB of
Binns mghem on s bearing of 135°, Smell plene pilot reported
| 8

thet seneral area.

30/1210/c2B Flight Service reports a confirmed crash betveen Phenix City
Ala. and Smith Station Ala. reported by 1
eae >henix City. Police enroute to crash. 4189 c<mboulance

and ground party also enroute. Crash believed to be a jet,

39/1215/a2 ivilians at Tuscalsose, Ala. reported a bright orsnge flash
with pisces failinz.

29/1320/GEB Dobvins tower reports 2 crash in the Newnen, Ga. ares. Vicinity
Southwest of stlanta at Medres Int. on airway green 4.

30/1325/523 Airline pilots flying in above vicinity reported » cresh or an
expinsion below their sltitude 3000 ft.

30/1339 GR3 At the roment ve have reports of four creshes in © -senersl cre
ruming from southeast to Saetenant over an crea of approximately
259 riles. PFlisht Service reported 5 civiliin > aa. or tad
a jet afirs over “inons, liiss. about 25 riles enst of Greenwood, ‘iss.
Two (2) airereft from Creenrille AFB, iss. proceeding to the scene.

30/1259/cPB Mr. Qqypeof Al<. CA” briefed on 211 availeble rerorts ve
have at this time. Yequested to instigate . search on 2 wheel
basis, uSing each Incident revorted es the hub of the wheel.
At pressas tine ve heve five incidents pending with no ecreshes
as yet confirmed.

45th Air Rescue Squadron's Controllers Log Continued.

30/1545/GRB
39/1610/GRB
39/1625/GRR
30/1635/CRB
30/14645/G23

20/1647/GRB

30/1795/GRB

30/173 2/GRB
29/1724/GRB
30/1725/GRB

30/1315/GRB

H-19 3838 on the ypround et Sylecsuge. Stunding

(Delayed Entry)
That is Rescues Control is standing by.

by for further information.

Cant. Lilller of Phenix City police cslled and renorted th-t
grounc search revealed nothing. Requesied to discontinue search.

SA-16 7207 on the deck at this time.
C-47 5732 reports that 344 has the object, on board and is
eircorne from Sylacauga being éscoried by SA-16 7153. 5732 returning

to the base,

OSI tir. Scass notified of ebove information and requested thet
we stand by on e security guard for unidentified object.

C-47 5732 on the deck at this tine,

Major MeCullough Mississirpi CAP officially de-clerted at
this time.

Georgia CAP officially de-slerted thru iajor Rognick at this tine.
H-19 33493 on the deck at this time,

SA-16 7153 on the deck at this time. Mission officially closed

for lack of further information,

Alabama CAP, Lt. Col Cessdy officially notifiec and de-alerted
at this tine.

TRUE EXTPACTED COPY:

CHARLZS iW.
Major, USAF

Jperations Officer

=

KELSO

THIS IS A TRUE COPY

Levwed Fi Chin. , 224 kr LAP

For WARD © VAUGHN

d W721
lst Llt., USAF

30/14,90/GR2

39/1415/GRE

30/1420/G23

30/1422/GRB
30/1430/C2B

30/1440/GRB

30/1445/GRB

30/1450/CRB

30/1500/cRB

30/1.525/GRB

39/1530/GRz

30/1545/GRB

( | acu

e Sguedron's Controllers Uo: Contimed.

SA-16 #7153 perforring an expending sq ch in
Birminzhan erer also H-19 £23343 in this area, SA-1é #7207 on
an expendinzs sjuere search in the A ) gin 2

#5932 being disneatcheé to Greenwood, Miss.
ean expanding Squ*re secrch from Winona, oles.
Capt. Roberts pilot on H-1? 3345 calles? in from Columbiana, Ale.
reported thet he requected forest renzers to elert their entire
net in the sovthesst to be on the lookout fbr any new fires wv
may enedle vs to ascertsin the cause cf these reports,

Capt. Marsden requested Flight Service to notify ADO on above
incidents and report beck any findings to us.

C-47 #35732 departing for Creenwvood srea.
SA-16 #7153 reports sesrching area 15 miles to 39 riles south of
Sylaceuga, Alea. reported nothing seen.

Flight Service that the Birmingham pipes bureau reported a
meteor struck near Syleccuga, Ala. A woman was gi ere taken
to the hospital women's nane - —— ot North Cesk
Grove about 3 miles esst of Sylacaug

Capt. Kinsaul Alabama CAP resorts thet stete police notified
him thet a meteor struck a house ne=r Columbiana, ‘ae Nae
checking back with state police to get woman's name who was
supposedly injured 2lso hor address.

Lawson AYB operetions called by phone to renort that e searen
of Atlanta area has revealed nothing so far. Requested th:t
they continue search.

Major McCollough of Mississinpi CAP celléd from Jacxson, iss.
stating that he hac dispetched aircraft to the inona ares
to initiate a search of that incitent.

Flight Service rerorted thet = mateor defiritely struck a
house and injured - woman et Sylacaugs, Ala. Woman's name
given in 1440 report and requested thet H-19 land end sickeup 14

yet the unindentified object and return it to ’axveil AF3 tor
examination. tending by.

A call by Capt. Marsden to city police at Phenix City, Als.
1 round sesrsh parties in that sres

,

revealed thst ss yet t+!
have found nothing.

SA-16 7297 reported that they have Searched the sre2 around
Wewnan Intersection on airway green 6 and heve found nothins
Instructed to return to base at this time. Also ell CA?
activities de-aierted at this tire.

Re ( ( sigs

45th Air Rescue Squadron's Controllers "or Continued.

30/1545/GRB (Delayed Entry) H-19 3838 on the ground st Syleceuga. Sturding
by for further information. That is Rescue Control is standing by.

39/1.610/GRB Cant. Miller of Phenix City police eslled and renorted thet
round search revealed nothing. Requested to discontinue search,

39/1625/G2B  SA=-16 7207 on tne deck at this time.
30/1635/CRB  C-47 5722 rerorts that 944% has the object on boerd and is
eirctorne from sylacauga beinr éscoried by SA-16 7153. 5732 returning
to the basse,

30/1645/GR3B OSI Mr. Sesss notified of sbove information and reauested thet
we Stand by on e security guard for unidentified object.

20/1647/GRB  C-47 5732 on the deck at this time.

30/1705/GRB Major MeCullouzh Mississippi CAP of*icielly de-slerted st
this time.

30/1732/GRB Georgia CAP officielly de-elerted thru Major Rognick st this time.

30/1724/GRB H-19 3843 on the deck at this time.

30/1725/GRB SA-16 7153 on the deck at this tire. Ifission officially closed
for lack of further information.

30/1315/GRB Alabema CAP, Lt. Col Cesady officially notified and de-slerted
at this time.

TRUE EXTPACTED COPY:

/T/ CHARLES W, KELSO
Major, USAF . :
Operations Officer THiS IS A TRUE COPY

id i Chen. 214 kr BAP

VAUGHN

USAF

’

30/14,90/GRE

30/1415/GRB

30/1420/GR3

30/1422/GRB
30/1430%/CRB

30/1440/GRB

30/1445/GRB

30/1450/GRB

30/1500/GRB

390/1530/GRB

30/1545/GRB

48th Air Rescue Squedron's Controllers ‘or

( (

—

Continued.

SA-16 #7153 performing an expending square search in the
Birmin. ‘ham erse a1so H-19 #33423 in this area, SA-16 #7207 on
an exnpendins Ssquere search in the Atlents, Ceorzis srea. C-47
#5932 being dispatched to Greenwood, iliss. area to perform

ean expanding squere secrch from Winona, Wiss. area.

Capt. Roberts pilot on H-19 3345 called in from Columbiana, A

rt their entire

reported thet he requested forest ranzers to sler
fires which

net in the southeast to be on the lookout for any new
may enedle vs to »scertsin the cause cf these reports.
Marscen requested Flight Service to notify ADC on nxbove
any findings to us.

Capt.
incidents and reoort back

C-47 #5732 departing for Creenvood area.

SA-16 #7153 reports sesrching area 15 miles to 39 miles south of
Sylaceuga, Ala. reported nothing seen.

Flight Service that the Birmingham wecther bSureau reported a2

meteor struck near Sylsceuga, Ala. Aw was injured end taken
to the hospital women's naue - a lives at North Oak
Grove about 3 miles east of Sylecauga.

A

Capt. Kinsaul Alabama CAP resorts thst stete police notified
him thet a metaor struck a house neer Columbiana, Ala. CaP

checking back with state police to get woman's name who was
supposecly injured 2lso her address.

Lawson AYB operations called by phone to report that a search
of Atlanta ares has revealed nothing so far. Requested thet
they continue search.

Major McCollough of Mississippi CAP cslléd from Jackson, iiss.
stating that he hec dispatched aircraft to the Winona area
to initiate a search of that incicent.

Flight Service reported thet = meteor definitely struck a

house and injured e woman at Sylacaugs, Ala. Women's name
given in 144 1,0 report and requested thet H-19 lend and pick-up as
yet the unindentified object and return it to Maxwell Ars for
examination. Stending by.

Marsden to city police at Phenix City, Ale.

A call by Capt.
ost round seorth parties in that ares

revealed thst as yet the
have found nothing.

arched the -rea eround
and hove found nothing.
Also all CAP

S4-16 7297 reported that they have s
Newnan Intersection on sirwsy green
Instructed to return to base at this time.
activities de-alerted at tnis time.

e
s
9

sane

SUBJECT: (Uncl) Unidentified Flying Object Recovered at Sylacauza,
Alabama

TO; Commander

4ued2a AISS {ADC)

ATTN: Major Cybulski

Ent Air Porce Base
Colorado Springs, Colorado

1. Reference report A¥ Form 112, F2-C-UFOB-1, dated 2 December
1954, from Dobbins Air Force Base, Georgia. Inelosed for your re-
tention are two duplicate sets of prints of the Sylacauga, Alabama
unidentified flying object, The object was photographed on 6 December
1954 at the Air Technical Intelligence Center.

‘2, he objeet was received at the Air Pechnical Intelligence
Center 1000 hours on 6 December 2954 and was forwarded to APOIN-X at
1200 hours 3 December 1954, where it has been loaned te the Smithsonian

Institute for additional study.

3. The following is the preliminary analysis of the object by
ATIC; the final evaluation is pending the results of the Smithsonian
Institute's examination:

a, Meteors and meteorites may be divided roughiy into three
classes. One elass is almost completely metallic (iren, nickel, etc),
Another is largely stony; and another, members of which are frequently
called aerolites, is composed of dense stony matter with many grains
of nickel-iren alloys. Yhis meteorite (from Alabama) appears to be an
aerolite, weighing @ pounds, 8 ounees.

b. Explosions of very large meteors are quite frequent,
Most meteors are no larger than the head of a pin, and these burn up
miles abeve the earth. On aecount of the heat generated, the larger
meteors moving with high speeds mist therefore explode. The Alabama
meteorite was mich larger than the smaller part recovered, for it was
seen to explode. Some other fragments distributed over a Yery large
area remain to be recovered, and much of it must have fallen as ashes,

ec. The average limits of aititudes of meteor patns are known,
They seldom appear at greater heights than 90 miles, for at greater
heights there is insufficient air to cause one to burn; and generally
they burn up before getting as low as 40 miles, Only those large

ss > Wa

~ i Record
TT me5/Capt. Ha /re/ 925
\arTag
ATIAES5 LODEC 1954
SUBJECT: (Uncl) Unidentified Flying Object Recovered 2+ Sylacauga,
Aladama
TO; Commander

4602a AISS (ADC)

ATTN: Major Cybulski

Ent Air Porce Base
Coiorado Springs, Colorado

1. Reference report AF Form 112, P2-C-UFCB-1, dated 2 December
1954, from Debbins Air ¥Yorce Base, Georgia. Ineclosed for your re-
tention are two duplicate sets of prints of the Sylacauga, Alabama
unidentified flying object. The object was photographed on 6 December

1954 at the Air Technical Intelligence Center.
2, The object was received at the Air Tecnnical Intelligence

Center 1000 hours on 6 December 195% and was forwarded to APOIN-X at
1200 hours 3 December 1954, where it has been loaned toe the Smithsonian

Institute for additional study.

3. The following is the preliminary analysis of the object by
MPIC; the final evaluation is pending the results of the Smithsonian

Institute's examination:

a, Meteors and meteorites may be divided roughly into three
classes, One class is almost completely metallic (iron, nickel, etc),
Another is largely stony; and another, members of which are frequently
called aerolites, is composed of dense stony matter with many grains
of nickel-iron alloys, This meteorite (from Alabama) appears to be an

aerolite, weighing 3 pounds, @ ounces,

b. Explosions of very large meteors are quite freauent,.
Most meteors are no larger than the head of a pin, and these burn up
miles above the earth. On account of the heat generated, the larger
meteors moving with high speeds mist therefore explode, The Alabama
meteorite was mich larger than the smaller part recovered, for it was
seen to explode. Some other fragments distributed over a ¥Yery large
area remain to be recovered, and much of it mist have fallen as ashes,

ec. The average limits of aititudes of meteor paths are known.
They seldom appear at greater heights than 90 miles, for at freater
heights there is insufficient air to cause one to burn; and generally
they burn up before getting as low as 40 miles, Only those large

Phas ae

Ttry |, ft
} Ul ls pao

44 -5/Capt. Har in/rc/ 992 b
ATIAE
ae LODE i954
SUBJECT: (Uncl) Unidentified Flying Object Recovered at Sylacauga,
Alabama
20: Comnander

ueO02d AISS (ADC)

ATIN: Major Cybulski

Ent Air Force Base
Colorade Springs, Colorado

1. Reference report A¥ Form 112, F2-C-UFO0B-1, dated 2 December
1954, from Debbins Air Force Base, Georgia. Inclosed for your re-
tention are two duplicate sets of prints of the Sylaeauga, Alabama
unidentified flying object. The object was photographed on 6 December
1954 at the Air Technical Intelligence Center.

/2, The object was received at the Air Technical Intelligence
Center 1000 hours on 6 December 1954 and was forwarded to AFOIN-X at
1206 hours 3 December 1954, where it has been loaned te the Smithsonian

Institute for additional study.

3. The following is the preliminary analysis of the odject by
APIC; the final evaluation is pending the results of the Smithsenian

Institute's examination:

2, Meteors and meteorites may be divided roughly into three
classes. ne class is almost completely metallic (iren, nickel, etc),

Another is largely stony; and another, members of which are frequently

called aerolites, is composed of dense stony matter with many grains
of nickel-iron alloys. This meteorite (from Alabama) appears to be.an

aerolite, weighing @ pounds, @ ounces,

bd. Explosions of very large meteors are quite frequent.
Most meteors are no larger than the head of 2 pin, and these burn up
miles above the earth. On account of the heat generated, the larger
meteors moving with high speeds mist therefore explode. The Alabama
meteorite was mich larger than the smaller part recovered, for it was
seen to explode. Some other fragments distributed over a ¥ery large
area remain to be recovered, and much of it must have fallen as ashes,

¢. The average limits of altitudes of meteor paths are known.
They seldom appear at greater heights than 90 miles, for at sreater
heights there is insufficient air to cause one to burn; and generally
they burn up before getting as low as 40 miles. Only those large

SUBJECT: (Uncl) Unidentified Fit =z Dees »

Alabama ey
ey
TO; Commander
4oO2d AISS (ADC)
ATTN; Major Cyouls«:

Ent Air ¥orce Base
Colorado Springs, Calorecs

1, Reference report AF Perm 1)?, 97 “a,
1954, rom Dobbins Air Force Base, GeOreié. Sei
tention are two duplicate sets of prizte @f Ge go Fm
unidentified flying object. The etjcet ute Pomme Mee

%

1954 at the Air Technical Intellipesse Gerba, P Sear oe
(2, The object was receired at Uw 65% Green.
Center 1000 hours on 6 December 195% art OME Pie”
1200 hours 3 December 1954, where 1% hat tH seena, 9 Bee
institute for additional study. gt

3. The following is she preliaisery Sern ~ og 2. ee é
APIC; the final evaluation 13 pencing UP OwtiCiN ey mae e ror TS
institute's examination: | St aaa

2, Meteors and metecrites may Mf Mier Oaks
classes. One class is alsost comietsiy eereng pr Soe i:
Another is largely stony; and another. omaep ath Res 33 te i
called aerolites, 1s composed of cense Biwi M0 0 | Su) |
of nickel-iron alloys. ‘nis aetesrit* arches ee ;
aerolite, weighing 3 pounis, 9 cunee#.

b. Explosions of very large |
Most meteors are no larger than the eet . Dis AR toy
miles above the earth, tm account ef sonata aie TE ae MRT
meteors moving with high speeds mus’! >. aang? Bie Se SEES
meteorite was mich larger than bhe : Nes ORR Oe

seen to explode, Some other sragmet
area remain to be recoverm, and

+
_

=

Ls
”

ec, The average limits of
They seldom appear at greater hols
heights there is insufficient ol? te
they burn up before zetting as low

LIST OF TABS

an

TAR CONTENTS

A {Initial Notification of Object TWX dtd 1 Dec 54
B Initial Investigation IR dtd 2 Dec 54

C Complete Report (OSI) dtd 8 Dec 54 (Conf)

D Miscellaneous Corresponce and Information regarding Case

E Related visual sightings

F Press Releases and Photographs of Object

sins

SCLAL FILE

( ‘it ty

at: ENTAGMINS O55 trey
Ci NM OA

~Diice of Record

tr, ATIC, Subj: (U) Unidentified Plying Object Recovered at Sylaca-
uga, Alabama - 1%

enough to penetrate all the earth's atmosonere actually hit the earth;
and these are c:lled "meteorites," Velocity of a meteor plays an in-
portant part on whether or not 16 nits the earth, At the time 2

meteor hits the earth's atmosphere--100 miles high, say--~its velocity
will range between 3 miles per second and 44 miles per second, Since
the earth's motion around the sun gives it a velocity of 15 miles per
second and the average velocity of a meteor is 26 miles per second,

one therefore finds velocities between 26-19 and 26418 miles per second,

ad. The speed of the Alabama meteorite can be estimated only
if one knows the exact direction from which it came and the time of
the day it fell. The evidence seems to indicate, however, that the
Alabama meteorite was a member of the Andromid shower, occurring be-
tween November 24 and December 7. These come from the north, but the
exact direction depends on the time of day they are seen. Ordinarily
their speeds are about 15 miles per second, but this figure may be
either higher or lower. If it is a member of this shower, it is from
the debris of Biela's comet which disappeared after 1952. Fragments
trom this comet have fallen, however, for centuries--one of the earliest
perhaps being a stone weighing 260 pounds which fell in Alsace, November
16, 1492, between 11 and 12 A.H,

4, Arrangements have been made for the meteorite to be returned
directly to its owner from the Smithsonian Institute.

rk THE COMMANDED

2 Incl _ RR, C. SCH
Photographs (dup) CAC, USAF
Asst. Adi

COORDINATION:

ATIAES A Aad DATE 12/9/54 __

PTARS Or iCIAL, riILe

34

‘
2D i Lode

j FIFCTRONICS BRANCH
—_ ees =

“Ortice of Reocerd

Ltr, ATIC, Subj: (UY) Unidentified Flying Object Recovered at Sylaca-
uga, Alabama . is

enough to penetrate all the earth's atmosphere actually hit the earth;
and these are called "meteorites." Velocity of a meteor plays an in-
portant part on whether or not it hits the earth, At the time 2

meteor hits the earth's atmosphere--100 miles high, say--itsa velocity
will range between 8 miles per second and 44 miles per second, Since
the earth's motion around the sun gives it a velocity of 18 miles per
secend and the average velocity of a meteor is 26 miles per second,

one therefore finds velocities between 26-18 and 26419 miles per second,

d. The speed of the Alabama meteorite can be estimated only
if one knows the exact direction from which it came and the time of
the day it fell. The evidence seems to indicate, however, that the
Alabama meteorite was a member of the Andromid shower, occurring be-
tween November 24 and December 7. These come from the north, but the
exact direction depends on the time of day they are seen. Ordinarily

their speeds are about 15 miles per second, but this figure may be
either higher or lower. If it is a member of this shower, it is from

the debris of Biela's comet which disappeared after 1852. Fragments
from this comet have fallen, however, for centuries--one of the earliest

perhaps being a stone weighing 260 pounds which fell in Alsace, November
16, 1492, between 11 and 12 A.H,

4, Arrangements have been made for the meteorite to be returned
directly to its owner from the Smithsonian Institute,

rIR THE COAMANDeD

1 Incl R. C. SCHUM
Photographs (dup)

“ORC, USAF
Asst. Adj. >

-

AIRCRAIT

DESCRIPLION OF COURSE OF OBJECTS)

As BRIGHT NESS OF OBJECT IN SKY. |

Be VERY HIGH AND COMING DOWN. ESTIMATES FROM AIRCRATT PLACE
ALTITUDE OF EXPLOSION FROM 43,329 TO 52993FT.

C. EXPLODED

De VERTICAL DESCENT

E, EXPLOSION-DISENTRAGTZD-PIECES OBSERVED FALLI & TO GROUND

Fe

Ce AFJET 52275 B47 3LZ09FT. 99 DEGREES HUNTER APS GA.

AFJZT 24S91 F-86 4BOOOFT 9B LECREES ALEXANDRIA AFB LAs

TIME AND DATE OF SIGHTINGS

A. REPORTS RECEIVID INDICATE EXPLOSION TO HAVE OCCURRED 21859zZ 39
NOVEMBER 1984

Be DAY

LOCATIONS OF OBSERVER (S23

IAMMELL AFB, ALAs SYLACAUGA, ALAe