DoD: Public Affairs controls UAP FOIA releases
Disclosed correspondence reveals defense authorities require freedom-of-information staff to consult public-affairs officials before releasing material on unidentified aerial phenomena. Retired Captain Joseph Gradisher stated this ensures consistent governmental messaging. The practice raises concerns regarding transparency and potential filtration of public records.
Background
Documents obtained through information requests demonstrate that defense authorities exercise editorial control over responses to public inquiries regarding aerial phenomena. The July 2020 correspondence from a retired naval captain reveals systematic review procedures ensuring consistent governmental messaging. This practice effectively positions public relations personnel as gatekeepers for transparency laws, potentially filtering content before citizen access. The materials also confirm existence of specialized security guidelines for classifying unidentified phenomenon reports.