New York: Keyhoe-Hillenkoetter NICAP strategy meeting
In spring 1959, Major Keyhoe met former CIA Director Hillenkoetter at the New York Yacht Club to plan NICAP actions amid USAF pressure to halt UFO inquiries with Air Force staff. Hillenkoetter urged accelerating efforts after scientists reported sightings to a congressman.
Background
Background
In the spring of 1959 the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) was under pressure from the US Air Force. A public information officer, Lawrence J. Tacker, called on the organisation to stop sending letters to Air Force personnel about unidentified objects. This reflected the continuing tensions between UFO researchers and official bodies.
The Meeting
Donald E. Keyhoe, NICAP's director, met Roscoe H. Hillenkoetter, the first CIA director and NICAP's chairman, at the New York Yacht Club. Keyhoe reported on three scientists who had brought sightings to a member of Congress. Hillenkoetter advised taking steps to speed matters up. This points to the internal strategic planning aimed at strengthening UFO investigation.
Significance
The conversation shows the senior-level support for NICAP from former intelligence figures and the pressure on civilian UFO groups. It marks a key moment in the confrontation with the Air Force, which was playing down UFO reports. There are no direct observations, but the meeting is of strategic relevance to the movement. (Source: Eberhart, p. 474; Keyhoe, FSTS, pp. 15, 247–248)