WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Monterey and 2004 Ford Freestar. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Release the recliner handle cover tab and remove the handle.
Fig 1: Releasing Recliner Handle Cover Tab And Removing Handle
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the side shield screw from behind the recliner handle.