President Joe Biden made headlines with a surprising revelation during a visit to Pennsylvania, suggesting that his uncle may have been eaten by cannibals after being shot down during World War II.
Speaking to reporters, President Biden shared the story of his uncle, 2nd Lt Ambrose J Finnegan Jr, who flew reconnaissance flights over New Guinea during the war. He mentioned that his uncle, known as Uncle Bosie, was shot down in an area with cannibals in New Guinea, and his body was never recovered.
However, the US government’s records do not attribute Finnegan’s death to hostile action or cannibals. According to official records, Finnegan died on 14 May 1944 when the Army Air Forces plane he was riding in crashed into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of New Guinea.
President Biden’s account of his uncle’s death seemed to have some discrepancies with the official records, but he used the anecdote to draw a contrast with reports of former President Donald Trump’s derogatory remarks about fallen service members.
The president highlighted his uncle’s story to emphasize the importance of honoring and taking care of veterans and their families. He also criticized Trump for his alleged disrespectful comments towards veterans.
While some former Trump officials have denied the allegations, President Biden stood by his account of his uncle’s sacrifice and service. The president’s spokesperson reiterated the importance of honoring veterans and providing support to those who serve in the military.