It is with profound sadness that the world mourns the loss of Mohamed Farrah Aidid who passed away at the age of 61 on August 2nd, 1996. Aidid was born in Somalia in 1935. In his youth, he became politically active and eventually rose to military dominance, serving as the chairman of the United Somali Congress and the self-proclaimed President of Somalia in 1991. His efforts to gain independence for Somalia in the turf wars that occurred from 1991-1994 led to the UN-sanctioned landing of US Forces "Operation Restore Hope" in 1992. He was a strong influence in Somalia's politics during the decades of chaos and civil war which followed the overthrow of dictator Siad Barre in 1991. Despite his military successes in battles against rival warlords, his example of leadership failed to bring peace and prosperity to his beloved homeland. A proud Somali patriot, Aidid will be remembered as a leader who never accepted compromise of his ideals even in the face of overwhelming adversity. He is survived by his wife, and many devoted supporters. He will be deeply missed.