1957 UFO flare report from Guam

Summary

In April 1957, a U.S. Air Force pilot reported a bright flare while flying near the Mariana Islands. The object was described as a white light ball, similar to a phosphorus rocket, that appeared suddenly and lasted about 12 seconds. The pilot, at 17,000 feet altitude, noted the light was so intense he could have read a book in the cockpit. The incident produced no noise or shock, and the object fell behind the right wing of the aircraft before disappearing. Although initially thought to be an interceptor aircraft or searchlight, investigators concluded it was a phosphorus flare fired from the ground. The report was classified as non-UFO, but the detailed description and pilot testimony offer an intriguing look at reports from the era.