Births on February 3

Beau Biden

Born on February 3, 1969

Beau Biden, American soldier, lawyer, and politician, 44th Attorney General of Delaware (d. 2015)

Joseph Robinette "Beau" Biden III: A Profile in Public Service and Family Legacy

Joseph Robinette "Beau" Biden III, born on February 3, 1969, and who passed away on May 30, 2015, was a distinguished American figure known for his multifaceted career in law, politics, and military service. Hailing from Wilmington, Delaware, Beau Biden dedicated his life to public service, leaving a notable mark as a federal prosecutor, a decorated military officer, and a respected state Attorney General.

Legal and Political Career in Delaware

Beau Biden’s commitment to justice began early in his professional life. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and Syracuse University College of Law, he embarked on his legal career in private practice before transitioning to public service. He served as a federal prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney's Office in Philadelphia, gaining invaluable experience in the intricacies of the justice system.

In 2006, Biden successfully ran for public office, being elected as the 44th Attorney General of Delaware. He served two terms in this crucial role from January 2007 until January 2015. As Attorney General, he was the chief legal officer and prosecutor for the state, responsible for upholding the laws of Delaware, protecting its citizens, and leading various initiatives. His tenure was marked by efforts to combat child abuse, crack down on financial fraud, and protect vulnerable populations. He notably implemented programs aimed at preventing online child exploitation and strengthening consumer protection laws.

Dedicated Military Service: The JAG Corps

Beyond his legal and political endeavors, Beau Biden was a highly respected officer in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps. The JAG Corps is the legal arm of the U.S. Army, providing legal services to the Army in all areas of military law. Commissioned as an officer in the Delaware Army National Guard, Biden rose to the rank of Major, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his country.

In 2008, Major Biden deployed to Iraq, serving a year-long tour of duty during Operation Iraqi Freedom. His service involved upholding military law and advising commanders on legal matters in a combat zone. For his exemplary service, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, a testament to his bravery and dedication while deployed. His military service profoundly impacted his perspective on public duty and the sacrifices made by service members and their families.

Family Background and Legacy

Beau Biden was the eldest child of current U.S. President Joseph R. Biden Jr. and his first wife, Neilia Hunter Biden. The Biden family faced immense tragedy early in Beau's life. In December 1972, a devastating car accident claimed the lives of his mother, Neilia, and his infant sister, Naomi. Beau and his brother, Hunter, survived the accident, though Beau sustained injuries. This profound personal loss significantly shaped the character and resilience of the Biden family, fostering a deep bond and a shared commitment to public service.

Beau Biden’s life was tragically cut short when he passed away on May 30, 2015, at the age of 46, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. His death was a significant loss, not only for his family but for the state of Delaware and the broader political community. His legacy continues to be honored through various initiatives and in the memories of those he served and inspired.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beau Biden

What was Beau Biden's full name and birth/death dates?: His full name was Joseph Robinette "Beau" Biden III. He was born on February 3, 1969, and passed away on May 30, 2015.
What political office did Beau Biden hold?: Beau Biden served as the 44th Attorney General of Delaware. He was elected in 2006 and re-elected in 2010, serving from January 2007 to January 2015.
What was Beau Biden's military service?: He was an officer in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps, serving in the Delaware Army National Guard. He reached the rank of Major and completed a year-long deployment to Iraq from 2008 to 2009. For his service, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal.
How was Beau Biden related to current U.S. President Joe Biden?: Beau Biden was the oldest child of current U.S. President Joe Biden and his first wife, Neilia Hunter Biden.
What was the cause of Beau Biden's death?: Beau Biden died on May 30, 2015, at the age of 46, from glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.

References

Choose Another Date

Events on 1969

2 Mar

Concorde
In Toulouse, France, the first test flight of the Anglo-French Concorde is conducted.
17 Apr

Robert F. Kennedy
Sirhan Sirhan is convicted of assassinating Robert F. Kennedy.
16 Jul

Apollo 11
Apollo program: Apollo 11, the first mission to land astronauts on the Moon, is launched from the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Kennedy, Florida.
20 Jul

Apollo 11
Apollo program: Apollo 11's crew successfully makes the first manned landing on the Moon in the Sea of Tranquility. Americans Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the Moon (July 21 UTC).
30 Jul

Richard Nixon
Vietnam War: US President Richard Nixon makes an unscheduled visit to South Vietnam and meets with President Nguyễn Văn Thiệu and U.S. military commanders.