Rufus Howard Biby was born on January 29, 1922 in Ponca City, Oklahoma. He was graduated in Ponca City High School in May 1939 and attended Junior College, Tonkawa, Oklahoma. Rufus was trained 1 1/2 years and graduated in Armament and Power Turret at Lowry Field, Denver, Colorado; trained and graduated in Aerial Gunnery at Las Vegas, Nevada. He was Killed in Action on November 19, 1944 at the age of 22 over Düren, Germany and is now buried in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Ponca City, Kay County, Oklahoma, USA. SSGT Biby was cited with the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement in aerial flight against the enemy stated in part.

His citation:
"When the B-26 type aircraft in which he was serving as tail gunner was seriously damaged by the enemy fire, Sergeant Biby steadfastly remained at his position and manned his guns against the enemy. A burst of enemy flak severely wounded him, but, refusing aid, he continued firing upon the enemy and succeeded in driving off numerous aircraft." His "superb airmanship and determination" enabled the other members of the crew to return to their base in safety.

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