Ground Saucer Watch Founded: FOIA-Focused UFO Research Organization
Ground Saucer Watch (GSW) of Phoenix, led by William Spaulding and W. Todd Zechel (former government employee with NSA connections), files for UFO-related documents from the CIA using the strengthened FOIA. The CIA replies that its UFO connection began and ended with the 1953 Robertson Panel. GSW becomes a key player in the FOIA battles that eventually release tens of thousands of UFO documents.
Background
Ground Saucer Watch (GSW) was founded in Phoenix, Arizona, in 1975. The organization dedicated itself to utilizing the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to acquire UFO-related documents from government agencies.
The Incident
Following the strengthening of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which became effective on February 19, 1975, a new wave of UFO research emerged. This new approach involved researchers actively filing FOIA requests with various government agencies and departments. Ground Saucer Watch (GSW) of Phoenix was established during this period. It was led by William Spaulding and W. Todd Zechel.
Investigation
GSW filed requests for UFO-related documents from the CIA. The CIA responded by stating that its involvement with UFOs began and ended with the 1953 Robertson Panel.
Significance
The founding of Ground Saucer Watch represents a significant shift in UFO research methodology. The amended FOIA provided a new avenue for researchers to access previously unavailable government information. GSW's efforts, along with those of other researchers, contributed to a growing body of evidence suggesting government interest and involvement in the UFO phenomenon, even if agencies downplayed or denied it. The organization's focus on FOIA requests helped to uncover previously classified information, such as the CIA's involvement with the Robertson Panel, which had been obscured from public knowledge.