US: Press release on Utah film blocked
Al Chop prepared a press release on the Utah film with military approval, but the Pentagon rejected it. CIA reportedly ordered a debunking campaign and silenced Project Blue Book.
Background
Background
On February 9, 1953, Al Chop attempted to issue a press release on the Utah film, approved by Capt. Harry B. Smith of AFOIN. It was to disclose the analyses of the Air Force (possibly aircraft) and the Navy (self-luminous sources) in order to head off accusations of conspiracy. The release stressed the lack of identification but promised further investigation. Gen. Garland agreed, but the Pentagon blocked it firmly.
Participants and Instructions
Edward Ruppelt, head of Project Blue Book, was placed under an obligation of silence. He informed Donald Keyhoe that even reports from Air Force pilots would have to be discredited. Chop accused the CIA of having ended the programme and launched a national campaign to ridicule sightings — through placements in magazines and broadcasts.
Significance
The episode points to tensions between the military and the intelligence services over UFO disclosure. Sources: Ruppelt (p. 228), Keyhoe (1974, pp. 70-71), Hynek (pp. 236-237). It illustrates debunking strategies and the control of information.