Bob Latta: “It is with great sadness that I come to the well to announce the passing of Arthur ``Jibby'' Jibilian, a World War II…”

“It is with great sadness that I come to the well to announce the passing of Arthur ``Jibby'' Jibilian, a World War II hero. During World War II, Jibby was a Navy Radio Operator who volunteered with the OSS and participated in the largest successful rescue mission of 513 downed airmen behind enemy lines in Yugoslavia. Jibby stayed behind until the very last airman was rescued on December 27, 1944. The heroic efforts of Jibby and his fellow OSS officers and the Yugoslav people are told in ``The Forgotten 500''; however, they have yet to receive any military or government recognition for their actions. I introduced H.R. 3496, which honors Jibby with the Medal of Honor. He said, ``I am well aware that the Medal of Honor is not bestowed lightly. However, let me say that just being nominated is an honor in itself. Therefore, I am in a win-win situation.'' I will continue working on this legislation to honor this exceptional American with the recognition he deserves.”