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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.

My deepest sympathies to the McCain family. He was a true gentleman who took his duties as a senator very seriously. I admire his independence and his love of family and country. May he rest in peace

-- Cindy, Minnesota

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 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

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

Forever my hero!

-- Bengi Poston, Texas

He was a great American and hero -- His passing is a great loss to American values

-- Nancy, New Jersey

I first met Sen. McCain and heard him speak at a Tucson pilot's meeting at Pinal Airport in 1989 or 1990 (not sure exact). Amazing man. Godspeed, Senator.

-- Jeff, Arizona

Thank for the blanket of FREEDOM you so unselfishly provided to everyone in the Initef States ofErica with your service and dedication to every AmericaGod ZBless you and your family

-- Judith, California

I am deeply saddened with the news of John's passing but know he is with the Lord. God bless John and his family. Semper-fi LenG

-- Leonard F, California

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

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

He fought the good fight. Godspeed

-- Michael, New York

He was not only a true warrior, but also a friend, He will always be remembered for his leadership.

-- Anthony, Arizona

May He Rest In Peace!

-- Bobby, South Carolina

I am sad and disappointed that I did not get a chance to meet you in person. It was always a pleasure to listen to what you had to say! A great man and role model for us. Thank you for your service Sir!

-- Patrick, Arizona

Senator McCain and the Institute's focus on character driven leadership sets it apart from other organizations. My experience with the Next Generation Leader's program provided me with the insights and skills to make an enduring and positive impact in Canada. This foundational year provides emerging leaders with an unprecedented opportunity to refine their own leadership values and the opportunity to develop an action plan to make a positive impact in their field of choice.

-- Michael, Canada

I ran into John years ago. He was running through the Phoenix airport on his way back to Washington. He carried his own suitcase instead of leaving that chore to his assistant. When I said, "Hello, Senator!" he stopped, gave me that big smile, and chatted for a few moments, despite the fact that he was obviously in a great hurry. What a guy!

-- John, Nebraska

A remarkable patriot. Will miss his common sense. Prayers to the family.

-- Diane, Arizona

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

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

Senator McCain gave a truly memorable speech at my graduation at the University Of Penn. in 2001. He opened with this statement: “The invitation to give this commencement address is a great honor for someone who graduated fifth from the bottom in the United States Naval Academy Class of 1958. To stand here in full academic regalia, and address an audience of distinguished academics and their learned students has reaffirmed my long held faith that in America anything is possible

-- Vick, Arizona

Senator John McCain represented the values and character that strengthened the very foundation of our democracy. Judy and I , are joined by are entire family in sending our sympathy and love. I willl never forget campaigning with the Senatorhis unswerving path of love for America,enduring optimism,and unfailing,though occasionally biting humor. How blessed to have known him and have him put “my friend” befor my name.

-- Lew and Judy, Florida

I didn't know him. Sent some emails. I supported his presidential run. Truly sad to hear this recent news.

-- Fatbardh, New Jersey

Sen McCain I miss your honesty and wisdom. You are our Hero and we will never forget your sacrifice and contributions to our great Country. Ramesh V Kapur

-- Ramesh, Massachusetts

Thank you for your service John McCain. Heart breaking, so sad!

-- John, California

Citizen – hero – patriot

-- Citizen – hero – patriot, New Jersey

This country has lost a guiding light. I’m saddened for his loss and my prayers are with the family. I know that he is looking down on heaven watching over us. My wish is his passing will inspire others in Congress to take up his cause.

-- Al, Pennsylvania

Served as his Director of Black Engagement 2008 Presidential Campaign, he loved my Caribbean chicken soup, saw him at CHC club 2017, I said sir it was my honor, he said no it was mine. Thank you for the opportunity, HBCU support, and the many quite things that you did.

-- CJ, Virginia

He should have been our President. A person worthy of the most important position in the free world.

-- David, Connecticut

John McCain set the highest moral example for all of us, regardless of political affiliation, to uphold. I pray that his example will resonate throughout political circles and that civil discourse will return to the seats of power in our country. It was my highest honor to shake the hand of this great man during his presidential campaign in Kansas City. May we all live by the example of a life of service and civility that John McCain epitomized. Thank you, God, for the life of John McCain and for giving him the strength of spirit to endure and keep fighting for what he believed in and the America he cherished. Farewell, Senator. We are all blessed to have known you and have you among us!

-- JAMES, Missouri

Our country's real hero!

-- Kenneth, Virginia

I've long admired and respected Sen. McCain for his strength, leadership and love of America. He dedicated his whole life to serving our country, striving to make it better and stronger, and becoming a mentor to many.

-- Susan, Texas

I voted for John Mc Cain for President. His words " A steady hand at the tiller " propelled me forward. Yes Sir.

-- Oscar, Texas

Since I worked in Operation Homecoming I have followed John McCain’s career with respect. He is a hero to our nation and to all people who believe in honor and service. Quid custodiet ipsos custodes? He was a watcher who inspired us all. God bless you and thank you. There will never be your equal.

-- Philip, California

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

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

Thank you for standing up for a free press and the First Amendment. And being honest about mistakes you made in life. We all have made some. It's called being human. You will be sorely missed!

-- Kerry, Arizona

I enjoyed campaiging for John, at his office. He was a wonderful person. The staff was great there was always, an aboundance of food and treats, for the volunteers! You would never go hungry in his office. My deepest sympathy to his whole family.

-- Marie, Arizona

I appreciate his service to our country -

-- David, California

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

-- Kees, Netherlands

I am a democrat who always admired Senator McCain. He was what every American should aspire to be, and that was never so true as it is today. Our deepest condolences to the McCain family who has our thoughts and prayers. We will greatly miss you Maverick!

-- Mark, Florida

I never meet Sen. John McCain. However throughout my 66 years of this earth I got to know Senator McCain. He was a good, decent man. He was a good family man. He was a Vietnam war hero. I called him my friend even though I never got to shake his hand. The world will miss Sen. McCain. His smile, his tenacity but most of all his character. He will for generations be a model of what each one of us should emulate each day. Character, truth, honesty, and his love of his family and country. May Sen. McCain rest now in the loving grace of God our Father and his Son Jesus Christ.

-- Randolph, Rhode Island

I met Senator McCain three times, once at a campaign rally in 2000 which is memorialized with a photo of him with me and my wife. We met more privately two other times where we discussed Afghanistan, Iraq and Iran. I knew I was in the presence of an American patriot. At a time when are challenged at home and abroad his ,eacership will be sorely missed.

-- David, New Mexico

We have lost a great American. He loved his country and worked for it to be better every day. I had the honor of being with him during his Presidential campaign in Tampa, Florida . Rest in peace. God bless him and his family.

-- Jose, Florida

Thank you for giving our children an example of what an American hero is. May your legacy inspire many to lead.

-- Leigh, North Carolina

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

I voted for John for president! I too was a Vietnam veteran! I always looked to him as a leader! He voted his heart and beliefs! John put his country first!

-- Gary, Montana

You will be missed. Thank you for your leadership

-- Tom, Wisconsin

Dedicated to America. There is really nothing more one needs to say.

-- Paul, Illinois

Please accept my most sincere condolences. Senator John McCain was a true hero and statesmen, his leadership will be a great loss to our county

-- Pamela, Florida

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.