Biden honors fallen troops at first public event since cancer announcement

Former President Joe Biden honored fallen service members and Gold Star families on Memorial Day at a solemn ceremony in Delaware. This marked his first public appearance since revealing his prostate cancer diagnosis.

“We come together today to remember the debt we owe to the American military,” Biden said at the event, organized by the Delaware Commission of Veteran Affairs. “The military is the backbone of our nation. Our troops, veterans, military families, and Gold Star families in particular. Only around 1% of Americans defend the other 99% of us. Just 1% of Americans risk the ultimate sacrifice. We owe them more than we can ever repay.”

For the Biden family, Memorial Day holds a deep personal significance as it marks 10 years since Biden’s son Beau passed away from brain cancer. Beau Biden had served in the Delaware Army National Guard, earning a Bronze Star for his service in Iraq before becoming the state’s attorney general.

Biden shared that his son’s proudest moment was wearing his uniform, and being present at the event helped ease the pain of his loss. He also offered words of comfort to others who were grieving, reminding them that they are not alone and that their loved ones will never be forgotten.

During the ceremony, Biden mentioned that Beau’s son, Hunter, was in attendance, bringing back memories of attending the same Memorial Day event with Beau when he was around the same age. The former president emphasized the importance of unity, stating that the sacrifices made by the military to defend democracy should bring people together regardless of political differences.

Biden’s announcement of his prostate cancer diagnosis on May 18 had raised concerns about his health and mental fitness for office. However, his office later clarified that he had not been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Recent books and leaked audio recordings had fueled speculation about Biden’s mental faculties, with some pointing to instances where he appeared to struggle with speech and memory.

Despite these challenges, Biden’s message at the Memorial Day event highlighted the importance of honoring and supporting the military and their families. As the nation remembers those who made the ultimate sacrifice, Biden’s words serve as a reminder of the unity and gratitude that should define our collective appreciation for the men and women who serve our country.