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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.
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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.

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

My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I am sorry that Mr. John McCain had to go through such torcher in Vietnam. I did not expect him to go so suddenly. He will be missed. Although, I did not always agree with him, I did respect him. May he rest in peace. One day soon you will be reunited with him. May God Bless his family.

-- Clif, Arizona

John McCain and I flew, on the A4 Skyhawk , from NAS Cecil Field, Florida to KINGSVILLE, TEXAS; he was speaking to future Navy pilots. The Sky Hawk was the type of airplane he flew in the Navy; I will never forget his smile after making a perfect landing back at Cecil Field. We enjoyed our flight and enjoyed the hoagie in Texas before we flew back to Florida. Then Itold him, "You will be making Admal and given a Carrier to command." To my surprise, I saw him on TV as Senetore of Arizona. He answered. "Alfredo, I am going into politics" When I found out he was a Senetor, I said " when he says he will do something; he does it. me he was going into polytecs. WHERE he was giving a conference. was giving at Kingsville Texas. We flew out of NAVAL AIR STATION CECIL, FL.

-- Alfredo, Florida

I never knew Senator McCain personally, though have been in his company at various political events in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. over the years. But all my adult life I have tried to emulate Senator McCain's love of country, concern for his fellow man, putting country over political party, taking your work but not yourself seriously, and having a little fun along the way. To this day I can visualize his captivity, feel his struggle and pain as a prisoner of war, and marvel at his remarkable positive spirit-despite all odds. But what he has left and given will never be forgotten. In fact, his legacy will hopefully give all citizens hope and faith for a better world. Made that way by Senator John McCain. To his family, my deepest sympathy. He will live on in generations of hopeful, defiant Americans.

-- Dava, Maryland

I never got the honor to meet John, what I seen and watched him he was a True American. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. R.I.P John McCain

-- Michael, Michigan

In 2010, my father, an Air Force veteran of the Korean War needed assisted living care. I learned about the aid and attendance benefit offered by the VA. The paperwork to apply was quite difficult. However, once we completed it and submitted it, I contacted Senator McCain to see if he could assist in expediting the processing of my father's application. Senator McCain did, and my father's application was soon thereafter approved. My eternal thanks are with Senator McCain. He did so much for so many, and his service will never be forgotten.

-- Chip, Arizona

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

John McCain was a mentor to all of us. I extend my deepest sympathy to his Family.

-- Deena, Massachusetts

As a moderately liberal Democrat I had never contributed to a Republican candidate. But as a Vietnam Veteran (river patrol forces 1966-1968 and 1969-1970) I had to pay attention to the statements and positions of John Mc Cain. And no matter where one stood on the political spectrum, it was clear that Senator McCain was a principled, insiteful, and patriotic leader. So I contributed what I could. And I wish it had been more and could have had more of an effect. I know I will miss him and believe our country will also miss his voice of patriotism. My condolences to his family and our nation.

-- Don, Kentucky

I served in Vietnam. Your legacy will inspire the young men and women thinking about entering the military and flying aircraft. Your unselfish position, and willing to sacrifice your life on behalf of the soldiers on the ground is appreciated. Your gallantry in action saved many lives, like myself. Mr. McCain, know that we will always love you, respect you and pray for you and your beautiful family!

-- Carlos, Texas

82nd Airborne ‘73-‘76. Was Army. Our son is USNA. Absolutely HATE politics as anyone in uniform of that era will tell you. Bet he did too, but still someone has to have the guts to do it. . What a loss to this nation. Most sad half mast I have seen. Salute and Prayers to your family from WWI army, WWII navy, Korea Army, VietNam Army, today USNA. Thank you.

-- Micheal, Tennessee

Every one Loved John

-- Floyd, Arizona

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

-- Laurie, New Jersey

Senator McCain's office helped us establish a website to help veterans with whatever their needs maybe and then turn it into an app for use on their phones. His memory will always live in the hearts of the veterans that he has helped in our community.

-- John, Ohio

I humbly come before you God, asking that you bless and comfort his family and his extended family in the United States Senate as well as his beloved Navy. Welcome this patriot into the Gates of Heaven; and give him a hero's homecoming and may both Admiral McCain Sr. and McCain Jr. be present along with every military member who has passed before him rendering the much deserved hand salute. And with the final words O' Lord, say the honorable words, "Welcome home thy good and faithful servant, welcome home". Senator McCain sir, You have fought the good fight, and you have claimed your mountain in the United States Senate and in the State of Arizona. Rest easy sir. We'll take the watch from here. #HandSalute

-- Nolan, Texas

Senator McCain was an honest, honorable man who served his country well in war and peace. He set an example that should be seen as a standard for others.

-- Harry, Ohio

Senator McCain lived America’s best qualities: patriotism, integrity, compassion and principled advocacy among them. His example lives on for all of us.

-- Fred, California

Thank you Sir for your service. Prayers and love to your family. I feel proud to know now that he is on the Right side of our Father, watching over us. Sincerely, Bert Druckenbroad

-- Bert, Ohio

John McCain was a man that I admired greatly. His courage, valor, and willingness to do the right thing no matter the consequences was a great light in my life. His memory will always be a beacon of hope in the world of politics, and his legacy will enrich and be enshrined in the halls of the US Congress. If I pass as a man half as honorable as him, I will rest easy. He served his country honorably. Safe sailing my friend.

-- Jarrod, Florida

To the McCain family; My families deepest respect to the TRUE PATRIOT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. History speaks for itself, and John McCain stands alone in his accomplishments. He would have made a historic president, but still took care of business for the common people. We are truly proud of the service your family committed to our country. THANK YOU

-- Doug, California

John McCain: An outstanding man and the best example of what a true American in politics should be, there are few that have the ability today to work with "let's work together" attitude but he was open for that. He has inspired both sides of the isle. he inspired me. Senator McCain stood firm when he refused to leave his men in Vietnam. He will always be known as a great American hero. I am saddened he is gone but feel he served his country well, showed self respect in the way he lived his personal life and political life. He is a man that God will take into eternity. Senator McCain is probably one of the few men that will be talked about in decades and years to come. God bless his sweet family.

-- Carol, Tennessee

With all of his dedication and honest effort, he gave much for this country.

-- Charles, Arizona

When you build bridges, you get attacked by both sides. Sen. McCain, I hope you left us enough courage to build more.

-- Robert, New York

While touring Tiananmen Square in Bejing, China, because of my similar size and white hair, I was mistaken for John McCain! People surrounded me all chanting his name! Put business cards in my hand and shirt pocket! Took photos with me! He was and will always be loved and respected throughout the world! Gods speed John McCain. God bless his family and friends.!

-- Ken, Florida

I’m at a loss for words tonight. Both in the midst of war and in the halls of Washington, Senator McCain's dedication to our country never faltered. In this era of talking heads and 24-hour news cycles, John McCain reminded us that we are not defined by our divisions or our disagreements but by our common bond as Americans. We can never replace him but we can honor him by continuing his mission. Thank you, Senator. hashtag#countryfirst

-- Maya, Washington, D.C.

Senator John McCain was a compassionate man and took a stand against torture. I am thankful for all he had done for the world.

-- John, South Dakota

Dear Senator John McCain. I want to thank you for everything you have done for this country. You have been a friend to all of us. You will not be forgotten.

-- Michael, Florida

We were Naval Academy classmates. He was my naval and American hero.

-- Thomas, Hawaii

What a hero. What a legend. What an Example For All Of Us ! There are so many great things that we could say about this man, but the bottom line is for all the misery he went through as a Vietnam POW, he still wanted to serve his country. He never gave up and I think that would be what he would say to all of us today..Never Give Up !! Thank you John McCain for never giving up.

-- Steve, Georgia

A great role model who stayed true to his convictions despite enormous pressure from his own party. He will be missed.

-- Bill, Massachusetts

God Bless You John, Thank You for Serving Our Country..

-- William, New York

I passed Mr. McCain in a terminal at Reagan National in fall of 2008 before the election. I said “Good Luck!” and he acknowledged with a nod and thumbs up. We appreciate his service. I’m sorry for your loss.

-- Victor, North Carolina

John McCain, John McCain Hero, idol, eternal swain You lived an active life, nobly You will be missed by all, greatly.

-- mumtaz, Bangladesh

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

To the family of senator John McCain. The first thing I want to say is that I am a Democrat and as a Democrat I want to wish the McCain family my deepest condolences. John McCain was a great man and will be missed. This country will never be the same without him . John in my eyes and in my heart you are a hero to everyone of us . We all love you and will miss you . John there is a reason why god took you from us . He has other plans for you and am sure you will be better then you were here on earth . My god bless you and your family . Never

-- Mike, California

Senator John McCain was a man of integrity and passion. He care about his country and the environment. The fact that he was tortured during the Vietnam war, and was against torturing our enemies today. This showed he was a man of strength. Perhaps, it was not to be for him not to be president; But, he showed through his books and actions in the Senate, that he was a rare and wonderful man with a great wife and family.

-- Kevin, Florida

You set the example for us to follow. Well done my friend! Now take your place in the Kingdom of God.

-- Texanna, Florida

Senator McCain has been a true Patriot with great love of country. He was a true Statesman and man of honor and integrity. He will be missed by those who knew him and citizens just like me! God is welcoming this special soul!

-- Jane, Florida

Sen. John McCain was a good and decent man. I'll remember him that way and be thankful for his extraordinary service to our country.

-- Carol, Florida

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

You asked to that when you are gone, how would you like to be remembered? You said "That you lived honorably." Sir, you did. Some will call you hero, father, friend, and Senator. I will call you a Sailor. One of "OUR" Navy's best. I can only offer you a thank you. Fair Winds and Following Seas.

-- Naeem, Ohio

As a fellow Naval aviator and Marine Corps pilot John may you rest in peace I flew 369 missions in Vietnam and I honor the service that you gave both in your flying skills and your courage to withstand the torture that you had to undergo I rescued many down Pilots as well as many marines Army and others I wish you the very best God bless you and may you rest in peace go navy blue Semper Fi

-- Thomas, Indiana

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

-- RoseAnn, Pennsylvania

Rest in peace, John McCain, as you have lived a full and extraordinary life. While you and your fellow congress members did not always agree, there is no dispute that you loved this country, supported a strong military, supported secure borders and immigration reform, supported fair trade, supported tax cuts, supported improved care for our veterans, supported world peace efforts and believed America is a truly exceptional country where freedoms and individual achievements are valued and fostered through capitalism and our representative republic system of government. You devoted your entire life to serve this great nation for which we all are grateful. Bless you and may God embrace and guide you in eternity. Carole

-- Carole, Washington

I am a regular American who has never met Sen. John McCain. However, I can say that I have always admired his strength and courage in light of what he went through during the Vietnam war. He could have come back, withdrew into his own world after the horrors he endured, but instead he continued to serve his country for decades to come, and raised a wonderful family. He is an American hero for the ages. Rest in Peace with our Lord and your family and friends who have gone before you. May Mrs. McCain and family know they are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

-- Carol, Florida

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

Thank you Senator.

-- Joe, Pennsylvania

My heart and prayers go out to McClain family we love you stay strong and remember what he stands for unity and love he will always be our hero

-- Shirley, South Carolina

Some politicians will be remembered as a good Republican or a good Democrat. John McCain will be remembered as a good man.

-- Richard, Indiana

God bless you sir, John Mc Cain. I admire your leadership

-- Kees, Netherlands

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.