In a solemn ceremony on Sunday, President Joe Biden paid tribute to the more than 2,200 American soldiers who fought and died in World War I and are buried in the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery in Belleau, France. The visit holds particular significance for Biden, as it features prominently in his criticism of former President Donald Trump's decision not to visit the cemetery during his time in office.

Speaking to reporters after a wreath-laying ceremony, Biden remarked on the significance of the Battle of Belleau Wood, a battle in which more Marines were lost than any other until the middle of World War II. Expressing his commitment to honoring their sacrifice, Biden stated, "The idea that I come to Normandy and not make the short trip here to pay tribute...".

Trump's planned visit to the cemetery in November 2018, on the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I, was ultimately canceled. The White House attributed the cancellation to adverse weather conditions, claiming it was too rainy for helicopters to fly and that a motorcade would have caused significant traffic disruptions. However, a later article in The Atlantic alleged that Trump's decision was motivated by a reluctance to get his hair wet and derogatory comments he made about fallen soldiers.

The Atlantic article, which Biden frequently references on the campaign trail to criticize Trump's fitness for leadership, accused Trump of dismissing the fallen soldiers as "losers" and "suckers." The claims were initially disputed by the Trump campaign but were later confirmed by Trump's former Chief of Staff John Kelly in an on-the-record statement to CNN.

Biden's decision to bring up Trump's snub of the Aisne-Marne cemetery at recent campaign events showcases his disdain for Trump's actions. During a rally in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Biden declared, "These were heroes. Who does he think he is?" Emphasizing the importance of honoring military service, Biden states, "This guy does not deserve to be president."

At Aisne-Marne, Biden refrained from mentioning Trump by name and declined to comment on the message he was trying to send to voters with his visit. Instead, Biden focused on his commitment to democracy and freedom, themes that have been central to his campaign. During his official visit to France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Biden emphasized the importance of staying strong with allies to prevent future conflicts.

As President Biden honors the fallen soldiers buried at Aisne-Marne American Cemetery, he hopes that Americans will reflect on the sacrifices made and the value of maintaining strong alliances to safeguard peace. "Do not break," Biden urges, underscoring the importance of unity in preventing future battles.