Biden shares touching memories of Ethel Kennedy at Washington memorial

President Biden gave a heartfelt speech at Ethel Kennedyʼs memorial service in Washington. He remembered her support during tough times and shared personal anecdotes‚ joining other political figures in honoring her life

October 16 2024 , 11:02 PM  •  362 views

Biden shares touching memories of Ethel Kennedy at Washington memorial

In Washington‚ D.C. a memorial service for Ethel Kennedy took place at the Cathedral of St Matthew the Apostle. The event‚ which lasted nearly three hours brought together many Democratic stars and featured musical performances by Sting Stevie Wonder and Kenny Chesney.

President Joe Biden delivered an emotional eulogy for Ethel Kennedy who passed away last week at 96. He shared personal memories and spoke about her impact on his life and family. Biden‚ whos been a long-time admirer of Robert F Kennedy and served in the Senate with Edward M Kennedy for many years‚ had to pause several times during his speech to compose himself.

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The service was attended by political figures including former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton as well as former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Notably Robert F Kennedy Jr (Ethels son whos running for president as an independent) was present but didnt speak at the event.

Obama described Ethel as a “spitfire“ with an “irrepressible spirit“ while Clinton joked about her innocent flirtations. Martin Luther King III spoke about the bond of tragedy shared between their families.

Joe Kennedy III (Ethels grandson) shared some of her life lessons: “Triscuits should be fried bacon goes with everything. If you want to get to 96 you should eat deviled eggs fried chicken and clam chowder for lunch every day“

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Biden recalled how Ethel supported him after his wife and daughter died in a car accident in the 70s. He mentioned displaying busts of Robert F Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr in the Oval Office calling them his political idols.

The president concluded his speech with a blessing for Ethel Kennedy after sharing lyrics from the hymn “On Eagles Wings“