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Today in History: Air National Guard pilot dies pursuing UFO

1/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 7, 1948, Air National Guard pilot Thomas Mantell died while pursuing an unidentified flying object (UFO) in his P-51 Mustang near Fort Knox, Kentucky. The incident raised significant public interest and speculation about UFOs, marking a notable event in the history of aerial phenomena investigations. Mantell's crash remains a pivotal moment in UFO lore.

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Story summary

On January 7, 1948, Air National Guard pilot Thomas Mantell died while pursuing an unidentified flying object (UFO) in his P-51 Mustang near Fort Knox, Kentucky. The incident raised significant public interest and speculation about UFOs, marking a notable event in the history of aerial phenomena investigations. Mantell's crash remains a pivotal moment in UFO lore.