When an event of extraordinary magnitude occurs, it is often the role of the witness to shed light on exactly what happened. Unfortunately, eyewitness testimony is based on the recollections and perceptions of human beings. Unlike a television or video camera, people are not accurate at what they report. One can make claims that certain eyewitnesses are more reliable. For instance, an airline pilot would be accurate in describing an event based on his experience and skills.
Nobody is exempt and there are plenty of examples over the years.
During World War II, experienced pilots on both sides often misidentified many things. During the battle of the Coral Sea, a Japanese scout plane misidentified an Oiler and a Destroyer for a Cruiser and Aircraft Carrier. This resulted in the Japanese carriers launching a full strike at the wrong target. These pilots of this scout plane had years of experience in their trade. They had seen aircraft carriers before and should have been able to differentiate between them and an oiler.