During a visit to a missing-in-action war memorial in Scranton, Pennsylvania, President Joe Biden shared a personal story about his uncle, Ambrose Finnegan, who served in World War Two. Finnegan’s plane was shot down over New Guinea, a place known for cannibals at the time, and his body was never recovered. Biden expressed emotion as he recounted his uncle’s story, highlighting the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military.
Biden called his uncle “Uncle Bosie” and spoke of the government’s efforts to search for parts of the plane in New Guinea. He connected his uncle’s experience to the broader conversation about military service, particularly in response to reported comments from Donald Trump regarding military personnel.
The president also shared a personal connection to military service through his son, Beau, who died of brain cancer in 2015. Biden has linked his son’s illness to his military service in Iraq, adding a poignant element to his criticism of Trump’s alleged comments about soldiers.
During his visit to Scranton, Biden spent time at his childhood home, reflecting on his roots in the city. The trip to Pennsylvania was part of his campaign efforts as he seeks re-election, appealing to union steelworkers and emphasizing the importance of honoring those who serve in the military.