Schulgen Collection Memorandum — Flying Discs (October 1947)
Summary
This memo, produced by Brigadier General George F. Schulgen on October 28, 1947, outlines directives for field intelligence at Wright-Patterson AFB regarding flying discs. It requests the collection of specific technical details and background information, including potential Soviet origins, marking one of the earliest formal USAF efforts to investigate UFOs.
Key highlights
The memo discusses sightings of flying saucer-type aircraft reported by credible observers.p.5
“reported by many competent observers, including USAF rated officers.”
It mentions the possibility of the Horten brothers influencing saucer designs.p.6
“the Horten brothers' perspective thinking may have inspired this type of aircraft.”
The document outlines specific intelligence requirements regarding aircraft design and propulsion.p.2
“information regarding the following items is requested.”
It notes that the first U.S. sightings occurred around mid-May 1947.p.6
“The first sightings in the U.S. were reported around the middle of May.”
The memo suggests that the objects may represent advanced aircraft of unknown origin.p.6
“the object sighted is being assumed to be a manned aircraft, of Russian origin.”
Outliers
The memo includes inquiries about the Horten family's current activities and whereabouts.p.2
“What is known of the whereabouts of the entire Horten family, particularly the sister?”
Source
View on NICAP — declassified Air Materiel Command intelligence collection memo →More from USAF