But....
Is the idea of only a handful of prints missing a few scenes that hard to swallow? The first like 200 70 mm prints of 'Empire' were different from all the other 35mm prints put out. Why not the first few Star Wars prints as well (Be it the 35mm or 70mm prints). With only 32 being put out its entirely possible that for whatever reason it was left out. I'm not saying it was meant that way or anything. I don't care why they weren't there. All I’m saying is that it's in the realm of possibility that for whatever reason on a few of the first prints a scene or two was omitted. It’s easier to believe a handful of prints went out bad as opposed to say a hundred. Especially considering the extremely small size of the opening day.
As far as where I heard this I’m doing my best to find that proof for you. When I was a kid my uncle worked at a press shop and they printed posters and shit for movies all the time. They did E.T. stuff, Blade Runner, Indian Jones, and some Empire and Jedi stuff as well. Now when ever some of that stuff was messed up on these he would take them home and we would get some to look at and hang up. (Damn I wish I kept more of that stuff). Anyway long story short, about the time of Jedi their print shop was printing the Lucasfilms newsletter or Star Wars Fan Club stuff. I can't remember which but in one of those they had a "Did You Know?" Star Wars section. And in that it said that on the opening day of Star Wars a few prints went out missing the Chewie Roar. Now for the past few days I’ve been going through boxes trying to find that newsletter thing and I can't for the life of me. I have it somewhere; I just need to find it. If it weren't for reading that I would agree with you but that came from Lucas's company so I figure I’m right. I just need the proof. I wish I could find it to scan it for you and everyone else it would be a great thing to read over. I'll keep you posted.
Perhaps someone with an account on starwars.com can post a question in the “Ask the Jedi Council” for us? You really can’t get a better answer than asking the man himself.