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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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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.

To the McCain family, my family and I wish to offer our sincere condolences on your loss. To me, Senator McCain personifies the meaning of what it is to be a real American patriot. He truly followed the path of Robert Jordan by sacrificing for his country. I admire him for admitting that he after all was human and capable of making mistakes. But he said that's ok as long as you own it. As a Vietnam veteran I would just like to say REST IN PEACE may God be with you

-- Ruben, California

Senator McCain had seats very near mine for the Arizona Coyote games at America West Arena. I saw him often at these games. He always had a kind word, a smile, a wave, a nod of recognition. The Country has lost a man that was its rudder in stormy seas. A man that exemplified character, sacrifice, and sense of duty to Country and family. God speed Senator McCain and may God bless your family in this trying time. We have lost you, just when we need you the most. That said, you have done your duty. Prayerfully, I hope that there are those of compassion and character that can carry on your good work. Rest in Peace, Sir.

-- Steven, Arizona

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

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

True Hero, Man of Honor, my family and I had the honor to meet and speak with the greatest American hero of our times!

-- Ali, California

My condolences to to the family of Senator McCain. Its very difficult to find a man and a Hero like Senator McCain in this century. My prayers will always be with him. Sayed Monis MD Neurosciencescenters.com

-- SAYED, California

We remember him,he was a great hero

-- Ramon, Florida

I met Sen. McCain in 1997 during my tenure as Chairman of the RNHA. It was a priviledge to count on him and his staff to engage in different issues related to our Hispanic community for four years. He never said no, his doors were always open and was always ready to step forward. Later, in 2008, I had the honor to be his Delegate at the National Convention held in Minneapolis/St. Paul. Always an Officer and a Gentleman! He will be missed. RIP Captain John McCain, USN (Ret)

-- Jose, Virginia

My name is Mina Castilho, I admire and loved Senator McCain. What a great loss for the whole world. Thank you Senator McCain for dedicating 60 years of your life to serve this wonderful and great Country. I am sending love and blessings to His family. May our God hold all of you in His loving arms. I will miss your sense of humor your service and fight to make this a better place. R.I.P Sir!!!

-- Mina, California

I think of John McCain as a comrade who served this great Nation with love of service to country, family, self, and humanity. God Bless his Spirit and God Bless America.

-- Paul, California

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

What a great man! The definition of integrity is John McCain. For my trip to Vietnam, he gave me note signed by him to keep me safe. A true American hero, he is what our country always needed and always will. He will be missed! John, please guide us from above.

-- Pierre, Arizona

The only thing is to pray for him. May God RIP.

-- mafuli, Florida

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

To a dedicated military and statesman I say a job well done and need more like you to follow. You could never be replaced with your prisoner of war and political records you have done this wonderful country a great deed. Gods blessings.

-- John, Texas

I have always followed late Sen. John McCain on his performance on the floor of the senate. Will personally miss him. R.I.P

-- Ikerave, Nigeria

Thank you John McCain! Blessings to your family!

-- Larry, Arizona

As a former intern to Congressman McCain -I was inspired by his enthusiasm and love of freedom and liberty. We have lost a proud-patriotic American and champion of freedom-Liberty. I enjoyed my internship and have a great signed picture of my friend John McCain. He liked a great debate-discussion and enjoyed a good story. His lifelong commitment to public service is a great testament to his character to protect and defend " that glorious Liberty document" our Constitution- that amazing document- the source of every AMERICAN citizens freedom and liberty! His Country First 2008 slogan was great and timely. Rest in peace my friend from Arizona!

-- Bill, Pennsylvania

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

For years I have more often disagreed with the Senator than agreed with him. Yet always I respected him. Thank you, Senator, for living with honor.

-- Birrell, California

Mr senator John McCain one of my heroes deeply condolences

-- Oscar A, Florida

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

Dear John Families, I really sorry to hear that he is now in heaven. He was the most greatest braver and peacemaker in the world. I am sure we can meet and see each other sin the heaven later. I like to pray for him and all families. Dear God bless him and his lovely families as well as Americans. Sincerely Gerald Lee

-- Gyeryoung Gerald, South Korea

I do not have a personal memory of this great man but his heroism, service and love for country compelled me to volunteer for his Presidential campaign. I can’t help but wonder if we would have been in a better place as a country had he been elected as President. May his example live on.

-- Deborah, Florida

We will never forget you, Senator McCain. It’s a heartbreaking day.

-- Kate, Massachusetts

God Bless John McCain. He was a true American Patriot and served our country extremely well. May he rest in eternal peace in The House of The Lord.

-- Stephen, New Jersey

My thoughts and prayers are with his soul and his family. God Bless him and his family. We will miss his positive impact for ourUnited States.

-- Susan, Arizona

Thank you for all you've done for the country and the people, Senator. You have led a remarkable life indeed. I shall miss you, sir. Goodbye for now.

-- Francis, California

A true hero and consummate statesman!!!

-- Susanna, Florida

John was often commenting that we had know each other since the early '80s. We shared some fun experiences at Grand Canyon's El Tovar for lunches and dinners over the years. We rafted the Colorado, hiked the Canyon, and co- chairs of the GCNP Foundation. My favorite memory was introducing him at a Foundation Cookout. I had been a Vietnam helicopter pilot, but never experienced his pain or truma... I introduced him as MY HERO and as the next President of the United States. I am honored to have known him and have wonderful memories.

-- Allen, Arizona

Trusted Statesman. Thank you for your dedication and your service. Barbra a democrat

-- Barbra, Illinois

Senator McCain was the only presidential candidate I ever campaigned for and one of two campaigns that I contributed to. Our country would have been so blessed to have him as our president.

-- Richard, New Hampshire

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

My father graduated in 1938 from USNA and served in WWII and was always proud to serve his country. I identify with the loyalty with which John McCain served God and his country. May you be comforted in knowing he is reaping his reward in heaven.

-- Barbara Dimmick, North Carolina

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

-- Msg David, Texas

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

-- Johnsie, North Carolina

Senator John McCain was one of my heroes. His ability to see both sides and to do what he felt was in the best interested attracted me to him from the beginning. I share the sorrow of the nation and his family as we mourn the death of this true statesman. May Light Perpetual Shine on him.

-- Susan, Mississippi

A truly heroic man who served his country well. He should be the role model for those in Congress as well as to the rest of the nation. He will be sorely missed by so many of us.

-- Kim, Texas

Thank you.

-- Victor, Arizona

I extend my most Sincere Sympathy to Senator McCain's family and friends from the Deep South of Louisiana. As a Brother Vietnam Army Veteran, John made sure that our military was ready to defend America. His time in the country of Vietnam and his sacrifices there cannot be measured, but by God alone. We all have a lot to learn from his courage and wisdom. He was also a great friend and supporter of Firefighters and 1st Responders everywhere. He truly left our Country a better place. Godspeed my Brother!!!

-- Chief Michael, Louisiana

He gave me a glimpse of what a George Washington and Abraham Lincoln's Courage, Honor and devotion to the truth was like. They would have been proud to have known him as a friend.

-- Garrick, New York

Thank you, Senator McCain.

-- Wendy, Arizona

Rest In Peace Senator. You will be greatly missed. Your integrity and honesty will long be remembered.

-- Linda, North Carolina

He was simply, my hero...

-- Dianne, Michigan

what a great vietnam vet he was a american hero may he R.I.P.

-- Joseph, New York

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

-- Leigh, North Carolina

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

Rip my prayers goes out to your family and thank you for your services and standing up for us

-- Lynn, New Hampshire

He was a man of tremendous courage. He was a hero.

-- Hemant, New Jersey

I loved John and will miss him I love Cindy A great team of 2 extraordinary people

-- Barbara, 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.