Kevin Douglas Randle (born June 4, 1949) is an American ufologist, science fiction and historical fiction writer, and a military veteran. Born in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Randle served in the United States Army, the United States Air Force, and the Iowa National Guard. He participated in both the Vietnam War and the Iraq War. Over the years, Randle has achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel and has been awarded several honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star Medal, and Combat Action Badge.
In the realm of ufology, Randle is particularly known for his expertise on the reported crash of a UFO near Roswell, New Mexico in July 1947. He has authored more than 80 books, with a significant number focusing on UFOs and the Roswell incident. Randle’s contributions to the UFO community have made him a leading figure in the field, and he’s often cited alongside other notable researchers like Stanton Friedman.
Early Life and Education
Kevin Douglas Randle was born on June 4, 1949, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, U.S. Randle pursued his studies in journalism at the University of Iowa, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA). He furthered his academic journey by obtaining a master’s degree in psychology. Randle also holds a Ph.D. from California Coast University. In addition to these qualifications, he earned a second master’s degree in military studies from the American Military University.
Career
Military Service: Kevin Randle served in the United States Army during both the Vietnam War and the Iraq War. In Vietnam, he piloted UH-1 helicopters and was assigned to various Assault Helicopter Companies. Between these wars, Randle was a part of the United States Air Force, serving in various roles including public affairs officer, a general’s aide, and an intelligence officer. After the September 11 attacks, he joined the Iowa National Guard as an intelligence officer. His unit was deployed in Iraq in 2003, and he participated in several firefights. Randle retired from the Iowa National Guard as a lieutenant colonel in 2009.
Writing Career: Randle’s interest in UFOs began during his high school years. In 1972, he published his first article about UFOs. Throughout the 1970s, he wrote about various UFO sightings, alien abductions, and other related phenomena. He was also tasked to investigate the wave of cattle mutilations in the Midwest. While Randle has written over 100 books spanning genres like action-adventure, mysteries, and science fiction, he is best known for his works on UFOs, especially the Roswell incident. He has also contributed over two hundred magazine articles on various topics, including his experiences in the Vietnam War.
In the UFO community, Randle is recognized as a leading expert, especially on the reported UFO crash near Roswell in 1947. He has authored numerous books on the subject and is often cited alongside other notable researchers in the field. While he continues to be active in the UFO field, in recent times, he has shifted more focus towards his science fiction writings.
Controversy
Kevin Randle’s involvement in the UFO community and his extensive writings on the subject have not been without controversy. In an interview with the Skeptical Inquirer’s Robert Sheaffer, Randle expressed his current beliefs regarding UFOs. He stated that he believes a UFO did crash in Roswell and that there might be some truth to the UFO crash in Shag Harbour in 1967. However, he feels that most people claiming to have been abducted by aliens are likely describing sleep paralysis and that many of these supposed abductees are impressionable and can be easily influenced by hypnotists. Randle also mentioned that the field of UFO research has not progressed significantly in over thirty years.
Regarding the Roswell incident, in a later interview, Randle indicated that he was no longer certain about what actually happened and felt that the case for extraterrestrial involvement was no longer robust. The interviewer, Sheaffer, noted that Randle gives more weight to ‘eyewitness testimony’ than skeptics typically do. This has led to debates and discussions in the UFO community, with some agreeing with Randle’s skepticism and others challenging his views.
Impact on Ufology
Kevin D. Randle stands as a pivotal figure in the world of Ufology. With a military background and a prolific writing career, Randle brought a unique blend of discipline and curiosity to the study of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). His contributions have significantly shaped discussions, theories, and investigations surrounding UFO phenomena.
Perhaps Randle’s most notable contribution to Ufology is his extensive research on the Roswell incident of 1947. This event, where an unidentified object crashed near Roswell, New Mexico, has been the subject of countless debates, theories, and speculations. Randle’s investigative approach, combined with his military insights, provided a fresh perspective on the incident. His books on Roswell have been instrumental in keeping the event in public discourse, challenging both believers and skeptics to consider the evidence and testimonies with a critical eye.
Beyond Roswell, Randle’s broader work in Ufology spans over 80 books, many of which delve into various UFO sightings, alien abductions, and related phenomena. His writings have become essential readings for enthusiasts and researchers alike, offering a balanced view that combines skepticism with a genuine interest in uncovering the truth.
Furthermore, Randle’s interactions with other prominent figures in the field, like Stanton Friedman, have fostered collaborative research and discussions. His willingness to revise his views, as seen in his later interviews, showcases his commitment to evidence-based conclusions rather than rigid beliefs.
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Conclusion
Kevin D. Randle is a multifaceted individual known for his significant contributions to Ufology, his extensive military service, and his prolific writing career. As an American ufologist, he has deeply influenced discussions surrounding the Roswell UFO incident and other extraterrestrial phenomena. His military background, spanning the Vietnam and Iraq Wars, adds a unique perspective to his research. Beyond Ufology, Randle is a respected author in the realms of science fiction and historical fiction. His dedication to evidence-based research, combined with his willingness to adapt his views based on new information, showcases his commitment to truth and understanding in both the world of UFOs and beyond.