Click here for live video of the National Memorial Service at Washington National Cathedral.

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.

Read More Here

Country First:

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.

READ MORE

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.

READ MORE

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.

READ MORE



Read More Statements

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.

He was someone who had something that should be taught in every school classroom. Patriotism.

-- Adrienne, Arizona

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

Had Honor to meet this GREAT man prior to the Ronald Regan Presidents Dinner (D.C), Sen. McCain gave us a Photograph we will cherish, it's my wife with me & Sen. McCain, "Carolyn is the Rose between two thorns" I tell this story too many. This picture will be on display in our AZ vacation home. Our Nation has loss a Hero, & Icon of Freedom. We loved him & Honor his memory. We plan to attend the AZ service about 7 hours from Ca...God bless him & Family.

-- Frank X, California

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

A great American statesman and hero. I have admired him throughout his career. I have retired from the USAF as a Colonel and honor him for the sacrifices he has made for his country.

-- Bruce, Indiana

Thank you so much to John McCain for giving me the opportunity to work and travel with him on the 2000 campaign—it was an absolute highlight of my professional life. And thank you for serving as a political hero—both for the nation, and for my son-who was awed by him-and other young Americans at a time where kids have way too few politicians to look up to. To be both driven by principle, and to be able to apologize, are such admirable traits, and he was a true leader. And he was a lot of fun. It was an honor to know him. Thank you Senator John McCain.

-- Maya, Maryland

Sir, it was an honor and privilege to briefly work for you as a Senate intern in 2008, and campaign volunteer since 2008. In the summer of 2009, my phone rang while I was studying for the AZ bar exam. I noticed it was from a McCain Senate office number, and upon answering heard, "Mike, John McCain. Thanks for volunteering on my campaign. I am going to need your help in 2010. Can I count on you?" "Roger sir." That Senator McCain found time to personally call a former intern and volunteer speaks volumes about him as a man and leader. Like countless others, knowing him changed my life for the better. I pray for Cindy and his family, and thank them for sharing him with us. Lord, thank You for giving John McCain to this world, and I believe You have already welcomed him to Your Kindgdom.

-- Mike, Arizona

I feel grateful for service and his love of family and his country

-- Betty, Oregon

I am a WA State democrat and my heart aches for this country's loss. John McCain set an example for each of us - to be true to yourself while respecting and honoring others as well. God bless him and his family.

-- Cindy, Washington

I never met Senator McCain but I remember him for his courage, determination, humility, and love. As a POW, there is no greater love than a man who would lay down his life for a friend. That was Senator McCain. I will truly miss watching him on television "stand up for the right and greater good". On Friday afternoon God welcomed him home with open arms and a huge smile, saying, "Welcome home, thy good and faithful servant. A job well done. He will celebrate his 82nd birthday in Heaven while smiling down on his true loves. His family and his country.

-- Pamela, South Carolina

True Hero of or times.

-- SANJEEV, India

Senator McCain transcended political parties and represented the best of Arizona and America. He will be sorely missed.

-- Cheryl, Arizona

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family of Senator John McCain. May the comfort of God surround you at this time and in the days ahead. Amen.

-- Edward, Texas

I met Senator McCain when he was on the campaign trail in NH. I attended his town hall meeting in Wolfeboro, NH. I asked him if he would wear my son’s memorial bracelet. I know he has worn it since that day. This country has lost a true hero and patriot. I am proud to call him a friend! He will be sadly missed.

-- Lynn, Kentucky

He was truly on of American Heros in my book and I wuill keep him in my prayer

-- James, Louisiana

We wish to share our feelings about a true American hero.

-- Robert, Indiana

We need more people like him in government. We need people to work togeather across party lines It is more important to do what is right for the country then what one party or the other wants to do and John knew this. He will be missed and the country will need to find more like him.

-- John, Pennsylvania

I always admired his clear stands and his military career. The US lost one of their moral leaders in a time of uncertainness. Rest in peace Salute

-- Alexander, Germany

I voted for this great hero for President, and felt he would have been great and better than the man he ran against..........RIP Senator McCain

-- Barbara, Illinois

On behalf of my family I would like to extend our deepest sympathies on the death of Senator John McCain. Without the courageous Americans like Senator John McCain our nation would not stand so bravely, gleam so brilliantly and live so freely. I wish to quote Light Horse Harry Lee’s, George Washington eulogy but today it could be written for the patriot, hero and a lifetime public servant, Senator John McCain, "First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen."

-- Erick, California

I just like him, without reservation, one of a kind human being who brings up high the core value we all shall fight to keep.

-- Helen, Canada

A leader. A patriot. An honorable soul. A true American.

-- Adam, Michigan

Iconic example of "A good man"

-- Leo, New Zealand

A true hero and patriot. We thank him for his service, love and courage for our Country. He was always there with sincere help when called upon. Our condolences go out to his family during this time. God bless him and may he Rest In Peace with Our Lord.

-- Sandra, Arizona

It was a tremendous honor to be part of the convention to elect Senator McCain president. He and Governor Palin would have been great for our country. His legacy will remain: a hero, a warrior, a man who stood for right, who gave to our Country. He will hear “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

-- Monterey, Nevada

The world is in search of character-driven leaders today. Senator McCain’s ability to see this in well advance and started supporting and cultivating character-driven leaders through the McCain Institute for International Leadership is the true quality of MAN. Cultivating and supporting the special talent and/or character-driven leaders of tomorrow is the highest of goodness one can do in this life time. And I am grateful Senator McCain is leading this effort in the USA through Next Generation Leaders program and it was rare opportunity of great reflection and realization time in my life that changed my perception, ignorance, and Senator McCain is truly bringing the world peace next level through his great effort of supporting and bringing up the character-driven Next Generation Leaders of the world. In today’s politically polarized culture throughout the world, other politicians can learn from Senator McCain at least his way of putting country over the political party.

-- Gantuya, Mongolia

I first met John McCain during the 1982-83 school year at Northern Arizona University. I remember it was a small event and John got up and addressed the group; and he shared his vision as he embarked on his first elected office representing Arizona. I left that event and remember telling a good friend how impressed I was by JOHN MCCAIN! All these years later I still feel the same. John McCain was a true patriot and he will be missed by All Americans! RIP dear friend! Thank you for your Leadership!! As a young student, JOHN was the first politician I ever endorsed without the influence of Family or Friends.

-- Andrew D., Illinois

Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Sen McCain was one of those rare individuals who possessed both courage and honor. Rare qualities on their own but even more extraordinary when combined. All of our lives have been enriched by his service. My father was seriously hurt in Korea. losing his right leg, right hand and the sight in both eyes. But he married a beautiful woman, raised four children and ran his own business for 20 years. I always looked up to and was inspired by my father for overcoming his disabilities. I looked up to Sen McCain in the same way.I Have been a life long democrat, but if I lived in Arizona I would have returned John McCain to the Senate over and over again. John McCain was a true American Hero. Thank you for your service doesn't begin to express the gratitude he deserves.

-- Timothy, New York

Thanks for letting us know what respect really means. Senator McCain was one of the most honorable men I have ever seen in politics - a real hero. Fighting for the community and protecting the best values which everybody in the whole world is looking for. These memories will never die!

-- Markus, Germany

As a daughter of a career Army Officer who served in Vietnam in 1969-1970 I knew the story of Senator McCain. Through the years I always talked to my Father about Senator McCain. My Father passed away at 94 on 10-17-17 and this October will be interred at Arlington. I cried when I heard the Senator passed away. Truly reading Meghan’s tribute reminded me how strong her Father was and though our Fathers never met they shared love of family and country.

-- Denise, Georgia

I never had the honor of meeting John and shaking his hand personally, but did work as a volunteer lobbying for him from my Michigan home in several elections, Senatorial and Presidential. John was a shining example of clear-sighted ideals, a paragon of patriotism in our government, and showed what it meant to be a "Man of the People". Indeed, he taught by example even in adversity's face the meaning of "being a man". He understood the importance of a strong military and the strength of our great Constitution. I treasure a personal note of thanks he once sent for my lobbying efforts. Truly, "The Man Who Should Be King" (correction: President). Ronald Reagan and Teddy Roosevelt, whom he honorably stands shoulder to shoulder with, would be proud. As are all true Americans, and heavy-hearted, as am I. A righteous, honorable man! May God rest his soul!

-- Jim, Michigan

My prayers to all his family and may he Rest In Peace . It would of been a great privilege to of meet such a man my condolences to all of his loved ones

-- Maria, California

The senator was a friend of Bulgaria! R.I.P!

-- Stoyko, Bulgaria

My family will miss seeing John at the Dback games...

-- ralph, Arizona

John taught me that character is the most important quality of a leader....measured by actions ... guantified with respect ...appreciated with love...he was an awesome soul!

-- Bernie, Massachusetts

This great man lead our Nation and will be remembered as one of the greatest of all time. Goodbye Patriot.

-- Dan, Oregon

RIP Senator.

-- Bryan, Arizona

Great, great man!! He had steel backbone and and was a model of principled leadership. Service to God and country before self. He was from the fabric all leaders should aspire to be made of.

-- MATTHEW, Virginia

A hero I wish he was from my state God bless his soul Missing You senator McCain

-- Ali, California

Couple years ago I was at the Phoenix airport with my young son and son in law. I was sending off my son in law to another tour in Afghanistan as a highly decorated Special Forces soldier. Senator McCain came over to us and thanked my son in law for his service. They chatted privately for a few minutes and took pictures together. Amazing man. A real friend!

-- Lee, Arizona

We were very fortunate to be the beneficiaries of John McCain's courage, patriotism, and principled politics. May God bless John McCain and his family.

-- Robert, Maryland

For our generation, John McCain stood as a true hero, an example of patriotism, even through the dark hours of Viet Nam, and what was to follow. Self sacrifice .. putting our country above our immediate needs... no matter what the cost. Will always honor his memory!

-- Sue, California

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

I admired John McCain for as long as I can remember. In his death, I continue to learn lessons about how to live a valuable life. I didn't agree with every vote he made, but I always agreed he was an outstanding American, one to be not just honored but emulated.

-- John, Oregon

A great man, and a hero for all eras. May his memory be eternal.

-- Martin, Illinois

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

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

John McCain loved this country and I'm proud of how he's served this wonderful united states of america. He will always be remembered. It'll always be an honor to remember a wonderful person. Thank you and may god have mercy on your soul.

-- Thomas, New York

A courageous, and humble person who really loved his nation and state.

-- Jose, Arizona

Well done good and faithful servant.

-- Marha, New York

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.