PART A: How does the inclusion of Rebekah and Ben Erler's story contribute to central ideas of the speech?

Inclusion of Rebekah and Ben Erler's story contribute to central ideas of the speech:

Obama wanted to convey about the struggles America was facing and how they would overcome it and Rebekah and Ben Erler's story provided the context for the speech. He spoke about the struggles the couples faced during the Great Recession and how they overcame the Recession.

Rebekah was a Waitress and Ben worked at a Construction Site so when the Recession hit just like other middle class families, Ben lost his job and they were in due for a baby. They worked hard all way changed their lifestyle and built a house and had another baby. They are great inspiration for many Americans who also face the same struggle now and by time they would eventually overcome like these couple.