Barry County History Portal - Hosted by Hastings Public Library

The Search for Answers

James Dibble's posthumous Distinguished Flying Cross Ceremony. His brother Bill (left) accepted on his behalf. Presenter and man on right are unknown.

View of the Padula Valley in Italy where James was shot down.

The crash site in Padula, Italy in September 1999.

Ted and Jim Dibble at the crash site with found plane parts, September 1999.

Photo of a boot heel, bottom, found at the crash site in September 1999. It is USA made and most likely belonged to James Dibble.

James Dibble's Monument in Padula, Italy.

Jim Dibble with Padula citizens at his uncle's monument dedication ceremony, May 2000.

Jim and Ted Dibble wanted to know more about their uncle James' death. Through tireless research and relentless dedication, they were able to get a posthmous Distinguished Flying Cross awarded, find his crash site and make sure no one ever forgets James' sacrifice.

Seen here is a brief summary of their efforts. Be sure to go to the full collection to see more.

James P. Dibble: World War II P-38 Fighter Pilot

Jim Dibble's account of his uncle James Dibble's life and the search for answers into the details of his death.

Certificate describing James Dibble's character and receipt of the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Distinguished Flying Cross Certificate Awarded to James Dibble.

Transcription of an interview with Giuseppe Pisano who witnessed James Dibble's crash.

Case History report of the investigation into James Dibble's crash, discovery and subsequent reburial.

Be sure to browse through the entire exhibit as well which highlights the entire collection and includes dozens of letters, mission reports from 1943, personal accounts of air battles, the Dibble family's search for answers and so much more.

All content in this exhibit was donated to the Hastings Public Library by Jim Dibble, nephew of fighter pilot James P. Dibble. We are proud to display it for others to learn of James' sacrifice, the one so many men and women made in World War II.