Biden was toasted by Declaration of Independence signer Caesar Rodney, played by a re-enactor today, at the Delaware Historical Society's History Makers award program.
He also got a rare opportunity to embrace old friends again. And in keeping with the award, he was praised for making history in the first state.
The vice president's sister, Valerie Biden Owens, lauded her brother's rise from a local politician to the country's second-in-charge saying, "Joe Biden is always Joe Biden."
When Biden himself spoke, he talked about the changes and challenges that lie ahead for the country.
"The journey you've allowed me to travel has convinced me beyond a shadow of a doubt that we can bend history," he said.
Those who came here to hear Biden speak have followed him for decades. They included political supporters who sported buttons of a much younger Biden, and the sandwich maker at Leo and Jimmy's Deli on Market Street.
"It's such a thrill, so exciting, so emotional," said Jimmy Adkin. "Because you know he's one of you. When I went up to shake his hand, he remembered who I was and spoke. That's a good feeling."
"I've been an admirer for years," said Audry Coccia of Philadelphia. "I'm so glad that he's had the opportunity with the president to be able to help change our country."
After more than 35 years of having Senator Joe around, locals were happy Vice President Biden was back on his home turf today, because around here he's still Joe.
"I think you can feel it in the air," said former Chrysler worker Sam Latham. "When Joe is around in Delaware, there's an excitement in the air."
"It's really just about Joe, our friend Joe," said former Lieutenant Governor John Carney. "And that's what makes this real extra special, given who he really is now."
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