Meeting on the 1953 UFO Report

Summary

In May 1958, the CIA held a meeting with Air Force personnel to address a classified 1953 report on unidentified flying objects. This report, marked "Secret," had generated several inquiries, particularly from Mr. Leon Davidson, who insisted on full disclosure. The meeting aimed to find a solution that would protect national security and the identities of the panel members, some of whom did not want to be linked to the CIA. It was agreed to provide Davidson with a declassified version of the report and to consider issuing a public statement to manage future questions.

Additionally, it was highlighted that the original report mentioned actions an enemy could take with potentially dangerous consequences for national security, justifying its classification. During the meeting, the need to keep certain details and connections between the panel members and the CIA private was also discussed. It was suggested that an official statement, drafted by the Air Force and reviewed by the CIA, would be the best way to handle recurring inquiries. The meeting reflected the delicate balance of transparency and the need to maintain national security.