Bibbes, Paul

Ben Jacqueline and Judah. He was born on 26 July 1970 in Be’er Sheva. A second son in the family, a brother to Natalie, my uncle and Ron. Paul grew up in Arad. He began his studies at the “Ofarim” elementary school and completed the mechanical training course at the Zimmtbaum High School in the city, a handsome and beautiful soul, loving life and spending a lot of time. At the end of October 1988, at the end of basic training, he was assigned to serve in the IAF. During his service he underwent a long series of professional courses and was trained as an “Eagle” mechanic. His parents separated in 1989 and Paul made every effort to serve near the house, to help the family and help his younger siblings. In June 1991, he received a certificate of excellence from the squadron commander. Among other things, he said: “His work demonstrates professionalism, caring, desire and motivation to advance and improve his work.” After completing his regular service, Paul asked for a permanent sign, and his commander noted in his recommendation: “The garage demonstrates stability and a high level of professionalism. In October 1991, Paul joined the ranks of the career army. His commanders admired him for having a high level, leading in his field, carrying out his duties with precision and loyalty and always striving for professional advancement. In June 1993, Paul received a second certificate of excellence from the Wing Commander in which he served, for being “against the operation of his position at a higher professional and managerial level than usual and serves as an example to others.” Two years later, after passing appropriate courses, he began his service as an airborne mechanic in heavy helicopters. Nine months before his fall, Paul miraculously survived the Yasur crash, which was supposed to fly and was replaced at the last minute. On the evening of the 28th of Shvat 577 (February 4, 1997), the helicopter disaster occurred when two Yasur helicopters collided over Moshav Shear Yashuv. The seventy-three fighters, who made their way to operational activity in Lebanon, were killed, including Paul. He was twenty-six when he fell. After his death, he was promoted to the rank of First Sergeant. Paul was laid to rest in the Ashdod military cemetery. Survived by his parents, sister, two brothers and a friend. Chief of Staff Amnon Lipkin-Shahak wrote to the family: “Paul served as an airborne mechanic in the first Yasur Squadron at the Tel Nof Air Force Base, and was described by his commanders as a professional and dedicated person with a high personal level, who had a special sense of humor and showed willingness to help and help those around him at all times. He was promoted to the rank of First Sergeant after his death. “The commander of the unit wrote to the family:” Paul enlisted and was sent to the Nevatim base as a mechanic in the Eagle. During his service he was sent to an airborne mechanic course, at his request, and was converted to the Shearwater system. Paul served in the squadron for two years, during which he quickly integrated both in the professional and social fields, and was highly regarded by his commanders for his high professionalism. Paul, who loved the flight experience and the squadron, performed a large number of training flights and operational flights, where he always wanted to be the first. Paul was thoughtful, calculated his steps with a long-term vision and enjoyed a sense of humor and extraordinary joy of life. “His family commemorated the introduction of a Torah scroll to the synagogue in their Ashdod neighborhood.