2006 H2 3rd Row Seat Question

[Tones H3]

Ok, took my 3rd row seat out when vehicle was new, stuck it in my basement (Folded Up). Sat for about a year. Went down yesterday to get the 3rd row seat out and I cannot use the latch to release the seat back to unfold the seat. Took it to a local shop and the guy said it needs to be latched in the vehicle for the seat back to release and unfold. This is out of a 2006 H2. Can anyone verify this for me?

Thanks in advance.