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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.

You were a leader and an inspiration to this country and the people who live here. We need more men like you.

-- Edmund, Oregon

I ran into John several times in the early AM hours at Sky Harbor Airport. He was always quick with a smile to match my own. A great American. A great man. May his memory be blessed.

-- Jeff, Arizona

John was one of the good guys. I'm not American & not a fan of the Republicans. But John was a man to look up to, whatever your politics. You will be missed. RIP

-- John, United Kingdom

Rest in Peace John. There will never be another John McCain.. We will miss you and will pray for you.

-- Paula, Arizona

While a Senator and Presidential Candidate in 2008 we were very lucky to attend a wonderful campaign stop Senator McCain made in Miami, Fl. It was late at night but the mood and crowd was electric. God Bless you Senator and your entire wonderful family!

-- Richard, Florida

John McCain was a Wonderful Statesman for our country. My husband Barry Starr always had the greatest respect for him. His heart was always in the right place, he was professional, courageous and we are lucky to have had him representing us through the many years. I wish Peace and Wonderful Memories for his family, loved ones and friends.

-- Gayle, Arizona

Good bye Senator McCain,thank you for your service, you were a real hero.. You'll be gone but never forgotten. Rest in peace

-- Rose, Massachusetts

Our deepest sympathies to your family in this time of loss! We thank you for the sacrifice you all made as he served our nation diligently in war and in peace! Blessings!!!

-- Barb, Iowa

I never had the honor of meeting Sen. McCain, but I'm deeply appreciative of all he's done for the country. John, you'll be missed.

-- David, Colorado

I was a Democrat, but when John ran for President, I'd always said that if he ever ran , I would support him. Party didn't matter as much to me as the intent and decency of the candidate. John is the reason I became a bipartisan ..until trump...and I will be again when integrity is restored to the GOP... by emulating John's ethics. It can honestly be said that John was a "great man", that only comes along in decades. I wasn't prepared, though I knew it might come. Even now, John helps us differentiate the split screen contrast between revered and notoriety. He helped us through the troubled days of late while he was here, and will be the inspiration for us to regain our country's place in the world. I will remember you, John.

-- Jenneva, Arizona

I met the character of John McCain within the pages of his book, Faith of My Fathers, well-matched with his conduct as a man. It describes the ground of his action and the enduring worth of his cherished commitments. Whatever shortcomings each person exercises in life or fame which endures, it is the reason for it that all makes sense. Their works do follow them. Rest in Peace.

-- Herbert, California

I never met John. I’m a Democrat and have much respect for his military and US senate service. We have lost a great hero and public servant and are poorer for it. There will never be another like him. My heartfelt sympathies to you his family and you are in my thoughts. Mary , Oklahoma

-- Mary, Oklahoma

My family is dedicated to keeping Our Country safe & I must thank John for always doing the same. Thank you, Senator, Peace maker, Valor for all you have done to help me be proud to be an American. May God hold you close & finally allow you to rest.

-- Veronica, Michigan

I am a great admire of John S. McCain. God bless him! My condolences to his family.

-- Guillermo, Florida

Thank you for your service to this country. Dedication to our country is hard to find.

-- John A, Florida

Because of Senator McCain, I feel there is always hope in humanity. I am very grateful for your contribution to good of mankind. You will be missed always!

-- Tin, Wisconsin

My deepest sympathy to the family. We have lost a. great hero and statesman.

-- Joseph, Connecticut

The American polity is populated by many great people – that is, to say, individuals of power and influence. There are also good people – individuals of principle, honor and purpose who elevate and inspire us by their example. But rare are the souls in the nation’s public life who are truly both great and good. One of the few has now passed from our midst. He will be missed. John was well-known for being hard-nosed in his causes, but he was equally tender hearted. Accompanying his boxer’s toughness and resolve, was a poet’s sensibilities. He was the most formidable adversary and the best of allies. For his colleagues on the public stage he was often both. For John it was never personal or partisan or about the politics. The objective was always duty, the public interest, and what was right as he saw it. On that you could depend.

It’s no secret that John McCain’s hero was Theodore Roosevelt. And certainly no one personified TR’s “the man in the arena” more than John. Like Roosevelt’s ideal, he strived valiantly. He erred and came up short from time to time. He knew great enthusiasms and great devotions. Above all, he spent every ounce of his life and spirit on worthy causes. Three will stand out in our hearts and, hopefully, in the nation’s consciousness for generations to come: for every person to treasure freedom, to love the country and one another, and to serve causes greater than self-interest. As we lower our flags to honor a fallen patriot, may we lift our hearts in gratitude and with a renewed commitment to do and be better. Thank you, John. Fair winds and following seas!

-- John, Virginia

Senator McCain was not only a great Senator, but most importantly displayed great characteristics and great dignity. He was always known for doing things the right way, regardless of if you agree or disagree with him. I will never forget the moment he stood up for then Candidate Barack Obama on several occasions, He was not bitter when he lost in 2008 and showed and displayed grace. He will be missed. Thank you sir for your service to the United States for the last 60 years,

-- Nicholas, New Jersey

McCain Patriarch. American. Patriot. My-Kind-Of-Republican. Proverbs 31:8. Combative. Collaborator . Humble. Noble. Funny. Unpredictable. Honorable. Character. Intellectually Sovereign. Solid. Scrupled. Passionate. Unique. Tenacious. Unequivocal. Bookish. Incontrovertible. Steadfast. Vodka Snob. Charming. .........So Missed.

-- M, Texas

Thank you, John McCain, for your years of service to our country. You will sincerely be missed. Deepest condolences to your family.

-- Sarah, Colorado

Senator John McCain, one of the great leaders in the U.S. and around the world, is remembered for his faith, dignity, leadership, his love for people everywhere, and his love for his family. Senator McCain will be greatly missed by all, and especially by his comrades and friends in Arizona and Washington, D.C. Senator McCain has made the world a better place with his faith, integrity, leadership; his stand for democracy and freedom for all. His books are a great inspiration and teaching for this generation and the generations to come. Senator McCain's Leadership Institute will teach and bring other leaders for freedom and democracy for peoples all over the world. Senator McCain has been a great servant to Americans and to people in other countries of the world. His faith in God, courage and determination, are an inspiration for everyone all over the world.

-- Teresa, Kentucky

John, you are a man of integrity and a man with true character. You will be missed and forever remembered. Thank you for your service to this great nation. You are a war hero and a real statesman.

-- Steve, Virginia

I was and had been a huge supporter of John McCain! I’m so saddened to hear of his passing! My thoughts and prayer go out to the McCain family! Thank You John McCain for your Service and all that it intails!!!!!This country lost the best of the best !!!!!

-- Lori, Michigan

Have never had the pleasure of meeting him am 80 years old and he is my choice to have dinner with so much respect for him. Would love to thank him for his service to mankind and country

-- Gayle, South Carolina

It was my privilege to serve as Senator McCains Finance Chairman in S.C. for his Presidential Campaign. I did so because of his love for our Country and his determination to lead every American in contributing to our mission to defend and protect this great nation. He showed us how to act and we will always love him for his depth of character and ability.

-- Robert, South Carolina

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

Words can’t wipe away your tears. Hugs won’t ease your pain. But hold on to your memories. Forever they’ll remain. My heart goes out with sorrow when I heard the bad news. I am sending love and remembrance and keep John's family in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time.

-- Sassan, California

Our country most definitely lost a hero. I am proud that I reside in the same state as John McCain. He will be greatly missed.

-- Lynne, Arizona

Honor to a great Hero

-- Eduardo R., Florida

I have just would love to think and remember John McCain for the great and wonderful things of his earth life. For one for his Navy service and serving this great republic. His pain and suffering for this country will be remembered. He also served this county in the Senate even though he could have retired long ago he continued to serve the USA through pain, illness, hardships, and old age. I will keep John McCain and his family in my thoughts and prayers. God bless the former senator and his family!

-- Daniel, Missouri

Thank you Senator John McCain for your support of the military.

-- Msg David, Texas

Mr John Mc Cain is and will be my my hero along with President Regan for a long time I wanted to go to corn bill to meet him in person, but just like the Grand cayon I was hopping that he be there all ways, now he is gone and the only thing that I have is his legacy, thank you John and God bless you always, I really would like to come and shake-the hand of the my hero s wife God bless you Sandy

-- Sal, Arizona

I have ALWAYS had a deep love and admiration for John McCain. My deepest sympathy and prayers for him and his family.

-- Frank, New York

Every one Loved John

-- Floyd, Arizona

I found the Senator inspiring, volunteered for the Reform Institute, and supported all his campaigns. We've lost our best, but I'll do mine to raise children who'll work towards McCain's vision of America.

-- Doug, California

Senator McCain's sense of duty, honor and sacrifice to his country was second to none, and his deeply-held convictions that mirrored those beliefs was exemplified on his personal life, both public and private. We shared service in Vietnam, but the statement that "all gave some, some gave all" surely describes the Senator for those warriors who are willing to fight for their nation. May his legacy be enhanced by his willingness to fight the battles he undertook for the welfare of this nation. Semper Fi.

-- Mark, Arizona

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

Senator McCain will always be remembered by us as an American Hero and a man who served the American people his whole life. Thank you John McCain.

-- Mr. & Mrs. George, Arizona

My thoughts and prayers are with the family of John McCain.

-- Holly, Connecticut

Despite being Russian, and totally an opponent to the Respectable Mr. McCain views, I have to pay a tribute, homage and respect to the real patriot of his country. That's the kind of people our countries stand on. Rest in peace, Mr. McCain.

-- Alexander, Russia

I am grateful to Senator McCain for your serving and contribution to the USA. Please Rest in Peace. I pray for you. God bless Senator McCain!

-- Larry, California

Mr. McCain, you are a respected American hero. R.I.P.

-- Jane, California

Great Leader,our country will surely miss his leadership.Condolenses to his family.

-- Johnsie, North Carolina

I have followed John McCain's career since I was 16 years old from the late '70's. I recognized his devotion to his fellow countrymen and personal honor. He will always be an inspiration to me and an example of a great American. May your soul be at rest.

-- Scott, California

I had the honor of meeting Senator McCain and Mrs. McCain at a fundraiser many years ago. He shared a very funny story about how his grey hair made everyone at the kindergarten think that he was a grandfather instead of a father. When we visited his cell in Vietnam, I could not hold back the tears - no doubt the others on our tour could not understand why I was so affected, but I felt that it was more personal since we actually met. Senator McCain was a true hero and his commitment to our country and his service are an inspiration. He leaves behind a truly amazing legacy. Our deepest condolences to the McCain family and particularly to Mrs. McCain.

-- Polina, California

Thank you, John McCain, for your service throughout your life! I truly admired you and what you stood for! God Bless and my deepest sympathy to your family!

-- Michelle, Texas

God Bless. Sleep tight.

-- Tim, United Kingdom

Thank You so Very Much. Bryan Brinegar

-- Bryan, California

To the McCain family we are sorry for your lost .The Leon Session Family Much Love ????

-- Leon&Verta, Texas

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.