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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.

I was on the wrestling squad at Episcopal High School with John McCain, and I supported him financially and with a vote in both of his races for President. He was a bona fide American hero whom I admired greatly.

-- Robert, Virginia

We fly our flag at half staff on our porch in his Honor. As a man of honor, a War Hero and a patriot, he treated people with dignity which is sorely missing these days. Senator McCain will Always be remembered. What a Contrast from Mr. Trump who will NEVER be Remembered. We love you and will miss you forever. Senator McCain was a HERO. Bless the McCain family.

-- sheldon, New York

To an American hero. Thank you for your service to our country. And to your love and devotion you had for it. A life lived truly well. Rest in peace knowing you left a footprint that will endure.

-- Barbara, Illinois

I met the Honorable Senator John McCain and his lovely wife in Ft Lauderdale at a fundraiser during his 2008 campaign. It was an honor to meet and speak with him and it terribly saddening that he is now gone. He was a role model for every American.

-- Ron, Florida

Iconic example of "A good man"

-- Leo, New Zealand

Being a first generation immigrant and die hard democrat party supporter, I have always felt heartened by the honesty and patriotism of Sen.Mccain. He was a example to me of the greatness left in public service and my faith in my new country always was firm thanks to him. My prayers for this wonderful man.

-- Kumar, New Jersey

My dear maverick will truly miss you is going to be difficult without writing letters to you an email I will never forget the graciousness your wife displaying at the parties of Fourth of July in 2000 and 2001 will be parties that I truly will treasure now you are with your heroes Barry Goldwater, William T Garland, mote Mo Udall and other great Arizonans including the classy Gov. Rose Mulford your example of not putting anybody down will be a countless example in US history illustrated talk express one of the best memories of my young adult life as I stated in your last letter that that hope you had a chance to see I said that the maverick force be with you Megan Cindy and the rest of him became family I mourn your loss your loss is my loss as well!!

-- Ted, Arizona

A man of principle, honesty and courage. I fear for our country without him in it.

-- Mary, New York

Our prayers and thoughts are with the McCain family. He will be truly missed

-- David, California

Forever my hero!

-- Bengi Poston, Texas

Senator McCain, was a great American, great leader, great man , My deepest sympathy to the family, rest in peace.

-- Lorenzo, Arizona

To the McCain Family Although I did not know Senator McCain personally,I respected him greatly. As a veteran, he made me proud! Master Sergeant, USAF, RETIRED

-- Cassandra, Alabama

I did not always agree with Senator McCain. However, he was always willing to listen to what you had to say and explain why is disagreed. If you needed something and called his office, his staff always made sure to check into your issue. As the wife of a Vietnam Navy veteran, I also appreciate his service, sacrifice, and honor. He acted with dignity and respect in all of his actions.

-- KAREN, Arizona

I hope John McCain’s influence will guide America in the days and months and years to come. His character, bravery and heart will never be forgotten. He would have been our greatest President, I believe. We need him now more than ever. I feel we the people let him down. Maybe now we can be an example for him.

-- Barbara J, New York

I never knew John personally but he would be the one to have on your side. I wished that John would have been president back in 2008. He will be missed. My sympathies to the McCain family during this hard time. I lost my father to this evil disease cancer back in 2012 and it is still hard to think it has been that long but the memories keep him alive. To the McCain family you will have a lifelong of memories of John close to your heart.

-- TODD, Minnesota

I was a huge fan of Senator McCain. Unfortunately, as a Canadian, I could not vote for him but I did get to meet him in New Hampshire when he was first running for President and get him to sign his book. I have met a lot of politicians and VIPs in my life but he is the one who impressed me the most. I cannot help but feel that American and world politics would be much improved had he become President but they are at least a whole better for his extraordinary life and contributions. Rest in peace, Senator

-- Tim, Canada

I have learnt from the life of Senator McCain what distinguishes an outstanding leader: He knows who he is; what he stands for; what he believes in; where he is going; and most of all; he epitomizes character-driven leadership in action. I understood from his life example that 'Leadership is not something we stand for, rather, it is a stand for something'!

-- Karambu, Kenya

Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. May the Lord comfort you and your family during this your hour of bereavement. I pray that the Lord will keep you and your family in perfect peace. The Lord is our Shepherd we shall not want He is our shield and fortress; He will keep us for all hurt harm and danger. The Lord is our provider, keeper and maker of all that spiritually and diligently seek Him. I thank God for Senator John McCain, his service, his devotion to all mankind. There will never be another Senator John McCain, when God made Senator McCain He threw away the mold. Senator McCain had a heart of pure Gold a Spirit that he shared with all the people, whom he will never know that his spirit had touched. I was always impressed with Senator McCain. To God Be the Glory....

-- Marsha Gayle -, Arkansas

Thank you Senator McCain for all you did for the American people and for man kind. You are already missed and will always be remembered for your love of country . Rest easy SIR

-- Harry, Florida

May the grace of God be with the McCain family as John go home to be with Jesus.Thank you for a job well done!

-- Marsha, Georgia

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

It was not until after I retired from the Navy in 1976 that I had the opportunity to read about and then follow the career of the man who has become a hero to so many of us. Senator McCain earned the respect of all those who he represented - and he represented us all - here in Arizona and across the country. We have all benefited from having as our American champion, Our Senator, John McCain.

-- Ed, Arizona

Heard him speak to our PAC when he was running for Senator: He mentioned that he got through his POW days by having faith in 3 things: his fellow soldiers (they would rescue him if they could); his Country (they would never forget him and they would rescue him if they could); his God (he was always with him) - I am paraphrasing what he said but I admired him greatly from that day forward. A wonderful man!!!

-- Charlotte, California

John McCain was a hero from the Vietnam war and I admired him.

-- LaVonne, South Dakota

Admiration for a life well lived, by a refugee from Vietnam, still in-exile after 43 years.

-- TRINH, Maryland

Every one Loved John

-- Floyd, Arizona

I admired him for his service in uniform to our Country, his service in the Congress and Senate, his strength as a Politician and his example as a family man. He was valiant to the end and I will always remember his legacy and pray that those who feel disdain towards him and call him a RINO finally look at the truth and honor the man, husband, father, Sailor, leader, lawmaker that he was. RIP John McCain.

-- Joan, Virginia

So sorry for the loss to your family and our nation. Senator McCain was a true statesman.

-- carol, New Jersey

John was a man of honor and dignity. He always had time for you. I don’t wish I had told him, I did tell him.

-- USMCGEOFF, Michigan

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AND WHAT YOU STOOD FOR. AND THANK YOU FOR DOING WHAT IS RIGHT. I AM PRAYING FOR YOUR FAMILY. YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISS. I AM A DEMCRAT AND IWILL MISS YOU

-- PEGGY, Michigan

My name is Byron L. Moritz I am 19 years old and currently reside in Rochester Minnesota. As a loyal citizen of the United States of America and to our leaders. I would like to take time and mourn J.S.M . To his family, and friends i will have you all in my prayers for Mr. McClain and those grieving. May God Bless You all. I ask and call upon the Nation to Show Respect and Honor toward not only a Political Leader; but a WAR HERO who's name shail be remembered as America moves forward. Let not a warriors loss weigh on our shoulders; But let his bravery, courage, and strength leave a positive impact for future generations to come. R.I.P Brother. May God Bless your family. And May Senator McClain watch over his family and fellow Americans. A hero will always be welcome into the Almighty Lords House.

-- Byron, Minnesota

He was a statesman and a servant of the people. Rest in peace, and peace and comfort to his family.

-- Matt, Montana

i am relieved his suffering is over.i did not agree with him always but i did vote for him in 2008. he was a great hero to the u.s. my heart goes out to the family

-- steven, New Hampshire

Our family has been saddened by this loss, John McCain was a light of hope in a dark time politically. We laughed at his self defacing jokes, his delightful honesty. Most of all, we felt protected from corruption. He was not afraid to speak his mind when others were cowards or motivated purely by the polls. In short, he had guts and conviction of his beliefs. The rest of the party seems to have lost their moral compass. As he goes with our Lord, I am sure he will be welcome. We'll miss you, love and encouragement from our family to his on this day.

-- Renee, Oregon

I met Senator McCain at a book signing ceremony in Houston, TX. It was a honor for me to to meet with this officer and gentleman. RIP Senator McCain. My deepest condolences to Senator McCain’s family.

-- Bathiya, New York

Senator John McCain was a true American hero and a champion for All people. He made the world a better place through his actions and words. Rest In Peace, Senator.

-- Stephen, New York

I am a Viet Nam veteran and a Republican. I have always held John McCain in the highest regard. I watched the return of the POWs and cried as they exited the plane. God Bless John McCain

-- Lamar, Georgia

I thank you for your service. You are the only politician to whom I’ve contributed campaign funds. Fair Winds and Following Seas.

-- Susan, Ohio

Thank you for your service. Until we form again. Frank

-- franklin, Tennessee

John, May you Rest In Peace in heaven with God! You lived a life that shows the world what American is about! May God bless your family!

-- Jack, California

Greatest hero of our time. Thank you for the examples you have set.

-- Lien, Maryland

A man to be respected.

-- Wendy, Connecticut

Senator McCain was a man of principle who spoke honestly and respectfully to his constituents, his colleagues, and the people of the United States. He did not mince words. He lived his beliefs and acted in concert with his conscience. He was authentic. He was and is an inspiration to those of us who have tried to contribute to our country and our community. I am a democrat, but would have been proud to have him as our president. My deepest sharing of loss with his family and gratitude for his exampleSan Juan

-- Minerva, Virginia

I lived on the site of his bombing target in Hanoi (2015-2016) next to the lake he landed in. Everyday I walked past his memorial - John McCain, Air Force! The Vietnamese could not understand how a man flying was not in the Air Force. I visited Hoa Lo (Hanoi Hilton) often and found the display of his rescue photos heart wrenching. I have always had absolute respect for John McCain. For his service, his leadership, his willingness to do what's right even if it costs, and for his candor. God Bless John McCain and may he rest in richly deserved peace.

-- Karen, Pennsylvania

Well, I didn't know Senator McCain personally, but when I heard about his cancer diagnosis, I started to pray and didn't stop. You, see I lost my mother Hallie Lousie Williams, last year 7/17/2017 to the same type of cancer. I was hoping the Maverick had one last trick up his sleeve. He will be missed!

-- Angela, Illinois

Should there be a Heaven, Senator McCain will not only be there but will be working hard for it's many angels. I have no words to match the love and grief being expressed now for Senator McCain, but I do want to join in with such remembrances. He is a man of my generation. He represents to me the best the Republican party has to offer. I hope he will be a role model for future Republicans. My love to his family who must miss him but did have his love and devotion for many years.

-- Francia, California

I just want to thank Mr. McCain for his service to our country and the trials he endured for the country he loved. My sympathies to his family. May he now rest in the peace that God has for him. Thank you for your courage.

-- Sharon, Louisiana

I remember seeing Senator McCain during the 2008 campaign defend President Obama from the accusation that he was an Arab. He said the President was an American citizen. I also remember seeing the dramatic vote on the Senate floor when John cast the deciding vote against repealing the Affordable Care Act. I saw him many times on television and he was straightforward and direct in many of his answers to questions whether they were good or bad ones. He will be deeply missed in the US Senate at a time when it could use the voice of a man with the courage of his convictions.

-- Christopher, Maryland

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

-- Deena, Massachusetts

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

-- Jane, California

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.