Stanton, Kathleen, and Jennifer Stein (photographer and research assistant) conduct archival research at the American Philosophical Society
IN HONOR OF MY COAUTHOR OF THREE BOOKS
Stanton Terry Friedman graduated first in his high school class at age sixteen. He went to Rutgers University on an academic scholarship and then moved on to the University of Chicago where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. After earning his Master of Science degree in Physical Science he made the decision to forgo his doctorate, in order to work in nuclear industry. He loved his work and spoke proudly of his relationship with the men he eventually supervised. They were a fine honed team who worked cooperatively to complete federally funded projects with strict deadlines.
Initially, Stanton was skeptical of the scientific value of UFO investigation, but after he read “The Report on Unidentified Flying Objects” by Edward J. Ruppelt, the former director of the United States Air Force's Project Blue Book, he realized that this taboo topic deserved further investigation. Stanton developed a keen interest in seeking the truth through the examination of the evidence and paid close attention to Dr. James E. McDonald, whom he greatly admired.
After spending fourteen successful years in the nuclear development industry and nearing the end of a government contract that would require another family move, he made the decision to embark on a new career. He loved the art of the debate, so he decided to combine this and his professional assets and initially worked on the college lecture circuit as “The Flying Saucer Physicist.”
Stanton worked for more than fifty years as a scientific ufologist, archival researcher, international lecturer, on-camera expert, and author. He won many awards for his outstanding work.
I had the honor of being introduced to him by my aunt Betty Hill. He had communicated with many astronomers who believed that Ohio amateur astronomer Marjorie Fish had accurately identified the stars on a star map thatBetty had been shown during her UFO abduction in 1961. Stanton supported Marjorie's work and the reality of Betty and Barney Hills' UFO abduction.
Stanton shared his valuable time and knowledge with several younger UFO investigators encouraging them to continue their work and mentoring them. We are deeply indebted to his contribution, guidance, and the knowledge he imparted to us.