US: Rep. Stratton queries USAF on UAP over SAC bases
On December 20, 1978, US Representative Samuel S. Stratton voiced worries to his subcommittee about unidentified aircraft penetrating airspace above Strategic Air Command bases, weapons depots, missile sites, and control centers. He wrote to USAF Major General Charles C. Blanton requesting reports on these incidents.
Background
Background
On December 20, 1978, Democratic Congressman Samuel S. Stratton of New York approached his investigations subcommittee of the Armed Services Committee. He expressed serious concern about reports that unidentified flying objects were violating the airspace over sensitive Strategic Air Command (SAC) installations, including bases, weapons stores, missile launch sites, and control centres. The Air Force's inability to intercept or identify these objects was singled out.
Key Actions
Stratton wrote to USAF Brigadier General Charles C. Blanton to obtain detailed reports of such incidents. This points to official recognition of potential security gaps caused by unidentified aircraft.
Witnesses and Evidence
As a senior member of Congress, Stratton was the principal actor. The incidents referred to rest on internal military reports indicating a repeated presence of such objects. No specific sightings are detailed, but the letter implies documented cases.
Significance
The episode marks a rare public intervention by a US politician on UAP security risks at nuclear sites. It reflects continuing military frustration and contributed to later investigations. Source: Eberhart, UFOs and Intelligence: A Timeline, p. 896; Clear Intent, p. 54.