In a recent speech at the United Steelworkers Headquarters in Pittsburgh, President Joe Biden shared a story about his uncle, Second Lt. Ambrose Finnegan, and the difficulties of recovering his remains. However, his comments have sparked controversy and shed light on a disturbing chapter of history - cannibalism during World War II.

Finnegan served in the U.S. Army Air Force during the Second World War and was aboard an A-20 Havoc when the aircraft crashed into the ocean off the north coast of New Guinea. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting agency's account states that the plane's engines failed at low altitude, causing a hard impact on the water. Tragically, three men were unable to escape the sinking wreckage and were lost in the crash.

During his speech, President Biden mentioned that his uncle, known as Bosie, was never found because of the presence of cannibals in that part of New Guinea. However, Biden's claim contradicts the DPAA report, which states that one crew member survived and was rescued by a passing barge.

While Biden's assertion may be inaccurate, the existence of cannibalism during World War II is a documented reality. In 1992, Japanese historian Toshiyuki Tanaka revealed over 100 cases of cannibalism committed by Japanese troops in Papua New Guinea. Tanaka's research demonstrated that cannibalism was not solely driven by starvation; some soldiers engaged in the gruesome act even when food supplies were available.

Historical documents revealed that the Imperial Army considered cannibalism to be the "worst human crime," linking it to a lack of moral training among soldiers. Australian lieutenant accounts from the time recall finding dismembered remains, indicating the extent of this horrifying practice.

President Biden's comments, though factually incorrect in relation to his uncle's situation, serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by servicemen like Ambrose Finnegan. Finnegan's remains have not been recovered, and he is memorialized on the Walls of the Missing at the Manila American Cemetery in the Philippines.

White House Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates clarified that President Biden is proud of his uncle's service and was using his story to emphasize the need to honor and support veterans. The president reiterated his commitment to equipping and caring for those serving in the military, rejecting the derogatory views that veterans are "suckers" or "losers."

President Biden's remarks have sparked a broader discussion on the experience of World War II soldiers and the unimaginable horrors they faced, including the disturbing history of cannibalism in the Pacific theater. While the president's anecdote may have been inaccurate, it has served to shed light on a little-known aspect of wartime history and the need to honor and remember those lost in service to their country.