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John Sidney McCain III 1936 - 2018

Senator John McCain's remarkable record of leadership embodies his unwavering lifetime commitment to service. The son and grandson of distinguished Navy Admirals, Senator McCain graduated from the Naval Academy in 1958, and served as a Naval aviator for 22 years, including in North Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

On October 26, 1967, during Senator McCain's 23rd bombing mission over North Vietnam, a missile struck his plane and forced him to eject, knocking him unconscious and breaking both his arms and his leg.

Senator McCain was taken as a prisoner of war into the now-infamous "Hanoi Hilton," where he was denied needed medical treatment and subjected to years of torture by the North Vietnamese. He spent much of his time as a prisoner of war in solitary confinement, aided by his faith and the friendships of his fellow POWs.

When he was finally released and able to return home years later, Senator McCain continued his service by regaining his naval flight status.

His last Navy duty assignment was to serve as the naval liaison to the United States Senate. He retired from the Navy in 1981. His naval honors include the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, Purple Heart, and the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Senator McCain was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Arizona in 1982 and elected to the United States Senate in 1986. He was the Republican Party's nominee for president in the 2008 election.

Over the course of his career, Senator McCain served as Chairman of the Senate Committees on Indian Affairs, Commerce, Science and Transportation, and most recently, Armed Services.

Senator McCain is survived by his wife, Cindy, seven children and five grandchildren.
He was laid to rest at the U.S. Naval Academy Cemetery in Annapolis, Maryland.

Memorials and Services

There will be memorial events celebrating the life of Senator John Sidney McCain III in Arizona and Washington, D.C.
Please see below for more information:

The Story of John Sidney McCain III

U.S. Senator John Sidney McCain III was born on August 29, 1936 at Coco Solo Naval Air Station in the Panama Canal Zone to Lieutenant John S. "Jack" McCain Jr. and Roberta Wright McCain. The son and grandson of four star admirals, he was raised in the navy and in a tradition of military service that began before the American Revolution.

His grandfather, John S. McCain Sr., called "Sid" or "Slew," was the first of the family to attend the United States Naval Academy, and the first to become a naval aviator, earning his wings at the age of fifty. As a passed midshipman, he served in the Philippines on a gunboat skippered by Chester Nimitz, and sailed home to America on the flagship of Teddy Roosevelt's "Great White Fleet." The Senator's colorful great uncle, Brigadier General "Wild Bill" McCain was a West Point graduate, and served under General Pershing in Mexico. Another West Point graduate, General Henry Pinkney McCain, fought in the Battle of Manila, was adjutant general of the Army and established the selective service during World War One. Various McCains served in the armies of the Confederacy during the Civil War, one branch of the family having settled in the mid-19th Century on a plantation in Carrol County, Mississippi. An ancestor served on General Washington's staff, and Washington himself is the Senator's cousin many times removed.

The Senator was the second of Jack and Roberta McCain's three children, arriving after his older sister, Sandy, and before his younger brother, Joe. His early life was nomadic as the family accompanied his father to various duty stations.

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Donate to a Charitable Cause

Senator John McCain's remarkable record of leadership embody his lifetime commitment to service. In celebration of Senator McCain's service to others, please consider learning more about and supporting these two causes which were of critical importance to Senator McCain:

The McCain Institute Foundation
The McCain Institute Foundation is a tax-exempt 501C3 charitable organization founded to support the work of the McCain Institute for International Leadership at Arizona State University. Guided by values that have animated the career of Senator John McCain and the McCain family for generations, the McCain Institute for International Leadership is dedicated to advancing character-driven global leadership based on security, economic opportunity, freedom and human dignity. LEARN MORE AND LEND YOUR SUPPORT.

Translational Genomics Research Institute
When TGen’s founder, Arizona-born Dr. Jeffrey Trent, was the Scientific Director of the National Human Genome Research Institute at the National Institutes of Health, Senator McCain was instrumental in convincing him to return to Arizona and bring new knowledge with him, establishing TGen in an effort to turn breakthroughs in genetic research into medical advances. Today, TGen is poised to take that knowledge and transform brain cancer research in honor of Senator McCain. We invite you to join us in honoring Senator John McCain with the establishment of the John S. McCain III Endowed Chair in Brain Cancer Research. LEARN MORE ABOUT GLIOBLASTOMA AND LEND YOUR SUPPORT.

Statements and Tributes

Statement from The Office of Senator John McCain

Senator John Sidney McCain III died at 4:28pm on August 25, 2018. With the Senator when he passed were his wife Cindy and their family. At his death, he had served the United States of America faithfully for sixty years.

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Mourning the Departure of Senator John McCain

I was in the far northern reaches of Canada on a wilderness river when Senator John McCain died. We got to our endpoint—Nahanni Butte—where there was internet connection, and I learned that he passed away a few days earlier. It was not a surprise, obviously. Friends had been keeping me posted about his struggles and diminished strength through the summer. Still, it was a very sad day when I heard the news.

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Tributes at the U.S. Naval Academy Honoring Senator John McCain Today

Tributes at the U.S. Naval Academy Honoring Senator John McCain today by General David H. Petraeus and Jack McCain.

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Remembering John McCain

Through a lifetime commitment to service, John McCain touched the lives of people everywhere he traveled. People from every corner of the world have shared their memories and thoughts about Senator McCain and we invite you to read some of the scrolling messages below. Please share your own memories below.

Thanks Sir John McCain, YOU ARE the Great, YOU ARE an Hero, YOU ARE never die, YOU stay in the sun. R.I.P

-- Hong, Arizona

Take your rest...you brave soldier having fought the good fight of faith until your name was echoed from heaven's realm for your task has been completed. Your example of courage will not be gotten. You will be missed.

-- Phillip, South Carolina

I remember when the Great John McCain defended the name of Barack Obama when a lady tried to say he was a Muslim. He stood up for Obama at a time when so many others are trying to divide the nation. He was a politician that really brought Americans together.

-- Dominic, Georgia

Senator Mccain was a true hero and statesman. He will be missed by American citizens. I"m so sorry for your loss.

-- diane, Florida

Eternal rest grant unto John McCain o Lord and may Your perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. May his family feel your comfort o Lord in these coming days

-- Daniel, Illinois

John McCain was my hero and role model, I served 9 1/2 years in the Submarine Force and 22 yrs. in the Texas Legislature... I modeled my legislative career after him including my engagements with the press.. I was a better officer and legislator because of John McCain. Rest In Peace Steve Ogden ‘73 Non Sibi

-- Steve, Texas

I can't imagine our country without this amazing man. He will be sorely missed.

-- Laurie, New Jersey

While in college at the University of Arizona, I worked on Senator McCain's first bid for the senate. I always admired Senator McCain's service to our country, his honesty and tenacity. May he Rest In Peace.

-- Janet, Wyoming

I will remember John as a man that went threw enemy torture. A Veteran that stood up to help us Veterans while in the Senate.

-- Rory, Wisconsin

One thing I know: No matter what your politics, John McCain believed that no human being of whatever race, creed, ethnicity, heritage, or supposed criminal activity should be tortured. He Believed that torture was wrong -- always!. And so do I.

-- Jean, Wisconsin

A great Patriot and warrior and most importantly a true American Hero who will be sorely missed. !

-- michael, Pennsylvania

Our condolences to the McCain Family in their time of grief. May God hold you in his arms and wipe away your tears and hold you and be with you at this time.

-- Violet, Indiana

Navy Aviator McCain was honored by our Uncle Paul Carr. Paul flew during WII and lived his life as Sentor John McCain, a defender of the Constitution of the United States. As a Vietnam Vet and an American I am most proud of his ethics and Caring of his fellow man. John McCain was God’s Gift to us all.

-- John, Texas

A great warrior for the United States. Gone but will never be forgotten.

-- Bruce, California

We‘ll never forget him as a fighter for freedom and democracy! Trump would like to win a war (we hope there will be no war). The free world won the most important war against aggressive cominism as to the strength primarily of USA. Senator John McCain always was a supporter of the transatlantic friend- and partnership. He was himself a very strong soldier and was almost tortured to death in his fight for freedom and justice! We cannot say thankyou enough and will never forget him. All the best wherever you are ( to be sure a good place) Mr. Senator McCain !!!

-- Klaus from Germany, Germany

A truly world citizen - a hero to the world - rest in peace "sir"with love-respect - peace be with you and your family

-- JOHN, Canada

My husband Richard (USMC Viet Nam 1967) and I express our appreciation for Senator McCain's service, of all kinds. And sorrow to his family as he will be deeply missed. May God bless you, each one, and grant you comfort and deeper faith in Christ alone.

-- Kathryn, Arizona

My salute to a great career and a man of wonderful inner strength who served his county with honor and courage. May he rest in peace and be embraced by the arms of Jesus Christ.

-- Nicholas, Pennsylvania

I considered him a wonderful honest politician. A man of the people.

-- Ruth Lee, New York

May all Americans strive to follow Senator McCain's extraordinary example of honor, integrity, true patriotism, and public service. My deepest sympathies to the McCain family.

-- Danielle, Virginia

I was waiting for a flight at DCA when I looked over and saw Senator McCain. My mom knew him fairly well so she walked me over to meet him. He immediately stood up and took the time to get to know me well. I will never forget his kind words to me as a Page in the Senate. His character and strong demeanor will never be forgotten. It was a pleasure to be in his presence. RIP

-- Max, Virginia

John McCain is one of the greatest men of my time. His honor, devotion and integrity was truly inspiring. I cried when I learned of his passing. I have not ever experienced such sadness for a person I have never met. I will miss John McCain. He was a true American hero.

-- Leitica, California

Senator McCain will be greatly missed. His service to our country was much appreciated. He led with an open, fair mind. He’s a true example for all of us in so many ways. May God bless and comfort your family.

-- Lisa, Oklahoma

I JUST WANTED TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY AND PRAYERS TO THE McCAIN FAMILY.ALTHOUGH AS A REGISTERED DEMOCRAT I DID NOT VOTE FOR HIM[MY MISTAKE}I FOLLOWED AND RESPECTED THIS TRULY WONDERFUL MAN AND GREAT PATRIOT.HE WILL BE MISSED MY ALL PEOPLE OF THE WORLD AND MOST OF ALL BY ALL AMERICANS.I HOPE YOU FIND PEACE KNOWING HE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT AND IS AT PEACE WITH GOD.MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND HELP YOU THRU THIS VERY SAD TIME.P.S THANK YOU FOR SHARING JOHN WITH US.GOD BLESS

-- THOMAS, New York

Sen. McCain was at our store Morse Sporting Goods in Hillsboro. NH and gave a speech during his campaign. We have a nice picture of him on display at our store.

-- Walter, New Hampshire

thank you

-- michael, Georgia

I am a Viet Nam veteran and a Republican. I have always held John McCain in the highest regard. I watched the return of the POWs and cried as they exited the plane. God Bless John McCain

-- Lamar, Georgia

I am unknown to John, but he is highly regarded by me and many people in Australia, a fine person who many could emulate if they wanted to be a fine person. You have been and continue to be an inspiring person to me and many others. RIP Sir.

-- Paul, Australia

To the McCain Family Although I did not know Senator McCain personally,I respected him greatly. As a veteran, he made me proud! Master Sergeant, USAF, RETIRED

-- Cassandra, Alabama

God bless this family. Remarkable gentleman. His family and world has lost a true leader.

-- Susan, Nevada

My warmest condolences to the McCain family. John has been an inspiration to me and my family. Any man who spent over five years at the Hanoi Hilton and provided leadership in the Senate is a true American hero. John will never be forgotten. His memory will live on. John McCain is my hero. God bless John and family.

-- Michael, New York

From on Veteran to another Veteran, My deep condolences to the McCain’s family. My respect and salute to a Veteran.

-- Kevin, Virginia

Although I didn't have personal stories to tell -- I just would like to say that I am so sorry for your loss -- it is mine, my family and all of the people who are close to me share. He was a great man -- one, no matter what political party you are from, has taught us, inspired us. We are devastated and will miss him so much. So sincerely yours.

-- Mary, New York

Few people accepted the call to duty that others ran from. You are a man that was for the people and for this country. I am grateful for your sacrifice and your families. Thank you. May God bless you and your family

-- Pam, Louisiana

I am an independent and I voted for Senator McCain for president twice. He was the real thing. I will miss him terribly. Sheila, Massachusetts

-- sheila, Massachusetts

I remember John coming thru Tiffin, Ohio while running for President!! I alway thought what a great guy to come to such a small town!! RIH!!!

-- Brad, Ohio

Senator McCain was very nice person he seemed to be down to earth not one of these people that didn't like to interact with other people I got to see him a couple of times at the arena coyote Arena never was lucky enough to meet him rest in peace Senator John McCain

-- Rhonda, Arizona

Thank you for your faithful and loyal service to the Constitution, to our country, and to the world. You will always be remembered with gratefulness. You are in the Hands of the Greatest Love now. Prayers to the McCain family.

-- Lisa, Connecticut

Dear Mrs. McCain and family: We would like to express our condolences to you, Honorable John McCain’s Family, for your great loss. Words are inadequate at this time of grief, but we would like you to know that we will always cherish the memories of the Senator as a Combat Hero in Vietnam, enduring six years of harsh imprisonment at the so-called “Hanoi Hilton”. The Senator fought alongside us against the invasion of the Communists to ensure Freedom for the South Vietnamese people. As our Greatest Benefactor, The Senator wrote the McCain Amendment, signed into Law in 2002, which restored derivative refugee status to save thousands of South Vietnamese Prisoners of War and their families from the retribution of the Vietnamese Communists. Senator McCain was a "fighter" and a true "patriot" until the very end; his legacy of service and "love of country" were unparalleled. We send our prayers for "peace" and "healing." Respectfully Yours, Tan Nguyen Republic of Vietnam Veteran

-- Tan, Virginia

Thank you sir for every thing you did for this great country you will be missed god bless .

-- mike, Washington

To the family of our Senator McCain : Thank you for share with us a Great Human Being. Rest in Peace Beloved Senator.

-- Ana, New York

In 2009, I was working as a physician in Phoenix and went to a meeting where John McCain was the guest speaker. After the speech, I was talking with some colleagues, turned around, and there was the Senator. I certainly did not expect that he would come out afterwards to talk with any of us. He shook my hand and thanked me for being a physician in the state. I stammered something about him always being an inspiration to me (I still have a copy of "Character is Destiny") that I am sure made little sense. Still - the fact that this important man would just come out and talk to local constituents like that always stuck with me. If the political winds had different timings, he would have been a superb President - but regardless he was a superb Senator and human being.

-- Marc, Colorado

My condolences to his family and friends, he stood for his beliefs and this country and thats why I voted for him when he ran for President

-- Dennis, Ohio

Condolences to his Family, friends and all who loved him. Rest and your spirit shall touch us. My older brother lost his life in Vietnam, and so I know John's enormous sacrifice.

-- Cheryl, Florida

As an immigrant, I am proud of all your legacy, we will miss you Senator Mc. Cain for his brave and resilient personality. The world needs more heroes like you. God bless all your family.

-- Ismar, Texas

Mr. McCain, with your life story you leave behind. You make me proud to be from Arizona and an American. You will be greatly missed. May you Rest In Peace.

-- Maria, Arizona

We lost a tremendous man, warrior and public servant. God speed to the family

-- Kevin, Illinois

My Deepest Sympathy to the family..He was truly a protector of our Freedom..He is now a Heavenly Angel ..

-- RoseAnn, Pennsylvania

I truly "enjoyed" my Hanoi Hilton time with John. To the maximum extent possible, he made prison "fun". He was a red-blooded American guy from the git-go and right up to the end. And politically, he was always about ten levels above the average politician in that he'd lived all his prison years in a system where they have only one political party, which owned the army, the factories, the raw materials, the TV stations, the newspapers, the publishing houses where every book for every child in every grade was published. No competition. John appreciated our system in which our two major parties keep each other honest, to say the least. John always struggled to protect our system, and he knew from first-hand experience that the biggest problem Americans have is that they have no clue as to how lucky they are. God Bless John Sydney McCain III.

-- Larry, California

A few years ago, I wrote Senator John McCain a letter. In the letter, I wrote to him about a charity that he was working on to help the disenfranchised and poor here in America. I wanted to know, from him, why we did not hear more about wonderful things like about his work in the news. I also wrote in the letter that I am a Democrat. Therefore, I did not expect to hear back from him. But, I did. He sent a most wonderful warm response and signed it in ink (smile). I am a US Veteran. Senator McCain's service is and always be unmatched. When we lost him, the sorrow is as great as the day we lost John F. Kennedy. Our Nation's Hero set the highest example that MOST will never achieve. But, at least we can honor him and keep trying!

-- Stan-Joseph, Georgia

Thank You

We are truly grateful for the outpouring of support and comfort our family has received during this time of great loss. Your letters and messages remind us of the incredible impact John's life has had on so many people from Arizona, across the country, and around the world. John lived every day with vigor, vitality, and an insatiable desire to serve the country he deeply loved. While we've lost a central part of our family and an irreplaceable American leader, we can all honor John's life by continuing his legacy of service and leaving this world a better place for generations to come.

-- The McCain Family

If so inclined, flowers may be sent to your local VA Hospital. Thank you.