January 1, 1961πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡ΈMilitary Encounter
Military base

Pentagon: Tacker replaced as UFO spokesman

In April 1961, Lt. Col. Tacker was removed from his role as Pentagon UFO spokesman and sent to Europe. Maj. William T. Coleman took over the position.

Date
January 1, 1961
Location / Country
Type
Military Encounter

Background

Background

In April 1961, Lt. Col. Tacker's term as the Pentagon's official spokesman on UFO matters came to an end. He was removed from the post and transferred to Europe. The move came during a period of intense public debate about unidentified flying objects.

Sequence of Events

Tacker, who had previously represented the Air Force on UFO questions, left the post. His successor was Maj. William T. Coleman, who took over communications. The decision was documented in UFO journals and reflects internal changes.

Participants

  • Lt. Col. Tacker: former UFO spokesman, author of a book on the official Air Force position.
  • Maj. William T. Coleman: new spokesman from April 1961.

Sources and Evidence

Reports in "UFO Investigator" (April/May 1961), and mentions in UFO databases and books. No sightings were involved; this was an administrative change.

Significance

The replacement points to a shift in UFO policy amid tensions between disclosure and control. Tacker had held sceptical positions.