David Fruehauf
David E. Fruehauf | |
|---|---|
.jpg) Captain David Fruehauf, a former test pilot at Area 51 | |
| Other names | Dave |
| Role | Test Pilot |
| Official affiliation | United States Air Force; Area 51 |
| Affiliation in practice | Test pilot for experimental aircraft |
| Status | Deceased (2020) |
| Experience dates | 1960s–1980s |
| Experience location | Area 51, Groom Lake |
| Experience type | SR-71 Blackbird, experimental platforms |
| Alleged activities | Test pilot operations, insider knowledge of S-4 facility |
| Claims | Support for Bob Lazar's S-4 claims |
| Public accounts | History Channel interview (2020), various UFO-related publications |
| Known for | Statements on Bob Lazar and S-4 |
| Notable contributions | Insights into Area 51 operations |
David E. Fruehauf (commonly referred to as Dave) was a distinguished SR-71 Blackbird pilot, a verified Area 51 employee, and a figure in UFO disclosure. During his career as a test pilot, Fruehauf worked at Groom Lake, conducting experimental flight operations and supporting the development of advanced aviation technologies. He is known in the UFO community for corroborating elements of Bob Lazar's claims about the S-4 facility.
Fruehauf passed away on October 10, 2020, leaving a legacy both as a skilled aviator and a trusted figure among enthusiasts of extraterrestrial disclosure.
Career
Captain David Fruehauf served as a pilot for the United States Air Force, including testing experimental aircraft at Area 51. Notably, he flew the iconic SR-71 Blackbird, one of the most advanced reconnaissance platforms of its era. His time at Area 51 involved exposure to classified programs, which later informed his statements regarding Lazar's claims about S-4 and reverse-engineered alien technology.
Fruehauf's gained recognition within the UFO community for his willingness to discuss elements of secrecy surrounding Area 51 and his efforts to provide clarity on controversial topics like Bob Lazar's credibility.
Statements on Bob Lazar and S-4
In a 2020 interview with the History Channel, Fruehauf commented on Lazar's claims about Area 51's S-4 facility:[1]
> “Bob Lazar’s statements and all the things he has said have gelled now. To the point I think he’s very credible.”
He elaborated further:
> “When I was there (Area 51), we knew about S-4, but we didn’t know what they did… they would go in a different direction in a bus, and we went on to the north.”
> “…for me, after I left there, they had seen Bob Lazar there. And they admitted that to me recently.”
Fruehauf's testimony has been cited as evidence supporting the existence of S-4 and its alleged research on extraterrestrial technologies. However, his statements remain controversial and are debated by skeptics who question the credibility of such claims.
Personal life
Known to his family as a steadfast and compassionate individual, Fruehauf balanced his extensive knowledge with a humble and approachable demeanor. He was remembered as a good listener by those close to him.
Legacy
David Fruehauf remains a notable figure in discussions of Area 51 and UFO disclosure. His statements have contributed to ongoing debates about government secrecy and the existence of extraterrestrial technologies.