US: Defense official admits UFO info withholding
On October 29, 1962, Defense Department Assistant Secretary Arthur Sylvester acknowledged that withholding UFO evidence from the public could be justified if it serves the greater good. He referenced USAF regulations permitting such secrecy in the public interest.
Background
Event Details
On October 29, 1962, Arthur Sylvester, Assistant Secretary of the Defense Department, publicly stated that it might be essential to keep UFO-related evidence hidden from civilians when circumstances demand it. This admission highlighted official policies on information control.
Key References
He pointed to Air Force Regulation 11-30, which permits withholding data deemed vital for public welfare, and AFR 11-7, allowing denial of congressional requests even privately. These rules underscored military discretion over sensitive topics like unidentified aerial phenomena.
Context and Witnesses
No specific sightings were detailed, but the statement addressed broader UFO disclosure debates. Sources include UFO research compilations and Major Donald Keyhoe's analysis in his 1974 publication. Sylvester's role made this a high-level confirmation of secrecy practices.
Significance
This revelation fueled arguments about government opacity on UAP matters, suggesting strategic needs outweighed transparency. It contributed to ongoing suspicions of deliberate suppression during the Cold War era, influencing public and investigative discourse.
Connections
References
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