Pascagoula Dedicates Historical Marker to Document 1973 Abduction

Calvin Parker near where he was reportedly abducted along with Charles Hickson in 1973. (Sun Herald) — Calvin Parker near where he was reportedly abducted along with Charles Hickson in 1973. *(Sun Herald)*

Pascagoula city officials dedicated an historical marker last month to commemorate the 1973 experience of Charles Hickson (deceased) and Calvin Parker Jr.

On the night of October 11th, 1973, Hickson, 45, a shipyard foreman, and his coworker Calvin Parker Jr., 19, told the Jackson County Sheriff's Department that they were fishing off of the remains of an iron pier on the west bank of the Pascagoula River, when they heard a "zipping noise." The men turned to see an oval-shaped, bluish-gray craft with revolving blue lights hovering behind them. Three bizarre beings then reportedly exited the craft, abducting the two men and examining them prior to returning them to their original location.

For decades the case has sparked interest and debate in the UFO community, and many consider it one of the most credible cases to emerge out of the 1970s. The encounter remained at the word of Hickson and Parker until 2019, when new witnesses came forward to corroborate the men’s story.

The marker was placed next to the Lighthouse Park boat launches on the shore of the Pascagoula River in Pascagoula, Mississippi on June 22nd, reported the Sun Herald.

“It does mean a lot. It meant a lot that all my family came. All of Charles’ family came down today, but this means so much to have, especially the city and Jackson County and Pascagoula to recognize this,” said Parker to local ABC affiliate WLOX.

Rebecca Davis, executive director for Pascagoula Main Street, had a hand in the marker's dedication.

“Oh this is absolutely a thrill for me. Especially after meeting Mr. Parker," she said.

Davis unveiled the marker, and credited the city of Pascagoula and the Jackson County Historical and Genealogical Society for their efforts. The city determined placement for the marker and provided workers to install it, while the historical society provided the funds to pay for it.

Charles Hickson’s son, Charles Hickson Jr, was at the event.

“I think it is wonderful. I have been waiting for something like this for years. I just wish my dad was here to see it. He would have been very proud,” he said.

Charles Hickson Sr traveled the country to tell the story of his and Parker’s encounter, but passed away in 2011.

It was an emotional day for many, but perhaps for none more so than Calvin Parker Jr.

“It is emotional for me. I can’t really describe it because I would break out in tears if I do," Parker said. "I wish when I died I could be buried right here underneath this plaque, that would explain it the best. It is quite an honor.”

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