crews and 44 friendly troops to withstand superior odds until a rescue could be made. (b) Authorization Notwithstanding the time limitations specified in section 8744 of title 10, United States Code, or any other time limitation with respect to the awarding of certain medals to persons who served in the armed forces, the President is authorized to award the Medal of Honor under section 8741 of such title to retired United States Air Force Colonel Philip J. Conran for the acts of valor in Laos described in subsection (a).