Oak Ridge: Project Sign personnel reassigned
In January 1949, key Project Sign staff were reassigned or removed, reducing the project to basic data collection by junior members. This followed a negative UFO assessment during a nuclear propulsion inquiry at Oak Ridge.
Background
Background
In January 1949 the US Air Force's Project Sign team began to be dissolved. Many experienced personnel were reassigned to other duties, which severely restricted the investigation of UAP sightings.
Key Events
Alfred Loedding disappeared from the records, and Deyarmond turned to other subjects. Truettner held a final discussion about nuclear propulsion in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where Col. Ralph L. Wassell dismissed UFOs. He then withdrew. Civilian members were relieved of the work and reassigned to T-2 intelligence duties. Senior officers such as Llewellyn and Sneider lost their involvement, and Clingerman and Howard M. McCoy withdrew, as transfers were imminent.
Impact
Only Lieut. Howard W. Smith and George W. Towles remained active, limited to collecting and filing reports. This reduced status continued until the summer of 1951. It marked the transition to Project Grudge and signalled a declining priority for UAP investigation.
Significance
The reassignments weakened the pro-ET position and paved the way for a more sceptical course, influenced by rejection from higher levels.