As far as direct experiences -

(Subject pauses for several seconds)

Yeah, I've had some personal experiences.

I: Well, we'll get back to that later. Let's look some more at this Mission Statement of your special joint-service group here.

It describes "group structure and personnel" and says, "JRSG teams will be structured as follows to enhance cross-service, and cross-agency cooperation and communication."

"Initial organization of study teams include three, three-person groups. The JRSG CO, Colonel Thomas O'Brien, U.S. Air Force, will have direct command and full discretionary command and control."

Then it goes on, "Team One is Commander Daniel Wells, U.S. Navy; Lieutenant Commander James Etienne, U.S. Navy; Captain Amy Mella, U.S. Air Force."

"Team Two consists of Colonel Edward Thompson, U.S. Army; Captain William MacNeil, U.S. Army; Michael Green."

"And Team Three includes Colonel Gene Voss, U.S. Marine Corps; Major Karen Valdez, U.S. Air Force; Jennifer Thorsen," who, it turns out, is a CIA analyst in your story.

Are these based on real people?

S: Well, uh, uh, yes, sort of. They are characters that, in some ways, are similar to people I have known, and know. Or, kind of, are people I know or have known.

I: Hmm. Alright. Then, in this area of the Mission Statement called, "Methods and Goals" it says, "JRSG personnel will conduct field interviews and other information and intelligence gathering tasks as directed by the JRSG CO."

"JRSG teams will pursue intelligence and reconnaissance based on their investigative discretion and initiative."

"JRSG teams will endeavor to conduct reconnaissance on the seven general areas of study and maintain security of the intelligence collected."

"The JRSG will be granted the full cooperation of all military commands and civilian governmental agencies. Reports will be channeled from JRSG field teams to the JRSG CO on an as needed basis at the discretion of senior team officers."

Let me ask you this, Mr. Hammons. Do you think there are groups like this out there operating now?

S: I don't know. Maybe. You would think so.

I: Did any of the personal experiences that you mentioned have anything to do with your contact with Army Special Forces when you were an officer trainee in college ROTC?

S: Yes. Well, I mean, I learned about how they work, if that's what you mean. I've met people who had backgrounds in intelligence and special operations, sure. Just vets I've met, people like that, or, people out there.

I: Have people given you information that you would consider sensitive that you put into your books or articles?

S: Well, again, what do you call "sensitive." I mean, there are a lot of sophisticated things that go on. You know that. They're not classified. It's just learning about things. It's being a good citizen to get informed about things, that's all.

I: You mean about intelligence matters and special topics, unusual phenomena?

S: Yeah, well, people are interested in these things. Curious.

I: Yes. Of course. That's natural, isn't it?

S: Yes, natural. I think so. People want to know if these things affect them. And if so, how.

I: Mr. Hammons, we have a few more questions for you and some other areas that we'd like to get into with you, if you have time to come down for another, uh, discussion later this week.

I assure you that we have a very positive view of your novels and your writings, but we have to help maintain safety and security. I'm sure you understand.

S: Sure. Yes.

I: And your assistance would be, and is, greatly appreciated. Of course, we respect your position as a writer and a citizen.

Well, how about we schedule another interview for [REDACTED] if that works for you?

S: Sure, that's fine.

I: Great. Well, it was good to meet you.

S: Same here.

(Subject shakes hands with COL [REDACTED], CDR [REDACTED] and Special Agent [REDACTED], then leaves the interview room.)

Second Interrogation begins here: