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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.

I only know him from T.V. and the Newspaper, But he was an AMERICAN HERO! R.I.P. MR .MACAIN!!

-- Robert, Florida

I became a citizen on this Great Nation over ten years ago. I am leaving the American dream, but this dream will be not possible without true heroes like Senator McCain. Thank you Senator McCain for being a true hero and your service. Thank you for being a great example that I can learn many thing to became myself a better citizen of this great nation. I wish that I could meet you and tell you how much I admired you. God Bless your family and those that serve this country.

-- Carlo, Arizona

2 of my children and I had the pleasure of attending The Senators 100th town hall in NH when he was running for President. I was fortunate to be called on for a question. He was gracious and strong that day. He even complemented my young children. We sometimes watch the replay on CSpan. We think of that family time and cherish the memory. As well, I was just recently working in Vietnam and visited the Relic in Hanoi. I was moved to tears reading the history and how much I’m sure that he endured for the fight for our great country. But more importantly, the grace he showed on his return. He will be missed and our families prayers are with you during this time of sorrow. I know, as you do, that he is in God’s Loving arms for all time. God Bless you!

-- Michael, New York

I met the senator once in New jersey during a campaign event during his presidential bid. I had his photograph in my office since that day. John represented what is best about this nation. We shared a few things; we were both born in Panama ,both loved flying and we fought for Israel and the USA. He was a brave, honest and kind human being. I am priviliged to have know him. This country would have been much different if John had become president. Rest in peace

-- Dr. Ruben, New Jersey

He was a good man that cared about American's !!!! Rest In Peace!!!!!

-- Nichelle, Tennessee

I remember him in Peterborough N.H. the night before the 2008 election.

-- Stephen, Massachusetts

We remember him,he was a great hero

-- Ramon, Florida

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

A TRUE AMERICAN HERO AND A TRUE PUBLIC SERVANT MAY HIS MEMORY BE A BLESSING B'SHALOM

-- RICHARD, Massachusetts

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 am a democrat in Tucson, AZ. I have great respect for this man. He worked across the aisle for the good of ALL Americans and the whole world. There will never be anyone like him. I bet Aretha Franklin is ushering him into heaven with her songs!!! Well done, good and faithful servant!

-- Kathleen, Arizona

Senator McCain's sense of duty, honor and sacrifice to his country was second to none, and his deeply-held convictions that mirrored those beliefs was exemplified on his personal life, both public and private. We shared service in Vietnam, but the statement that "all gave some, some gave all" surely describes the Senator for those warriors who are willing to fight for their nation. May his legacy be enhanced by his willingness to fight the battles he undertook for the welfare of this nation. Semper Fi.

-- Mark, Arizona

My sister and I went to A book signing at University of FL. He was overwhelming gracious and humble to the long line of people that were there. There were a lot tears shed that day. He was an American Hero. He was certainly one of mine.

-- Vicki, Florida

I am a proud Canadian who has always supported,admired and respected John Mc Cain. I extend my deepest sympathy to his dear and loving family.

-- Sharon, Canada

We in Germany are grateful for this honorable and brave statesman of the whole western Community. R.I.P.

-- Jochen, Germany

He was a flyer like my Father in Vietnam, they knew each other ! He was very nice to me when he came to Havasu !!! Never forget

-- Linda, Arizona

Live on Senator. I will always remember the kind words you shared with the Public at the passing of Senator Edward Kennedy.

-- Fred, Florida

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

My memory of John McCain will always be the class and dignity with which he conducted himself during and after the 2008 Presidential Campaign. There is no greater example of his extraordinary character.

-- Michael, Massachusetts

My family is dedicated to keeping Our Country safe & I must thank John for always doing the same. Thank you, Senator, Peace maker, Valor for all you have done to help me be proud to be an American. May God hold you close & finally allow you to rest.

-- Veronica, Michigan

Our country has lost not only a Great statesmen but a true hero. My prayers go out to the family. But know, he will be well received at his new post.

-- Leonard, Illinois

I can't think of any person who has given more to our country than Senator McCain. Even in his death, he is showing us how to bring people together. God bless the McCain family.

-- Patty, Massachusetts

Well done good and faithful servant.

-- Marha, New York

I had the opportunity to see Senator Mc Cain on a Southwest flight arriving in Baltimore. When we got off the plane I was able to run and follow him and speak to him. He was very gracious and thanked me! I have followed his career over many years. Please accept my condolences. He will be sorely missed!

-- Priscilla, Massachusetts

It was my pleasure to meet John personally, talk and have dinner with him and a few friends in Tucson around 2011. I had the honor to offer a toast for his service and sacrifice to our Country. An honor I'll never forget. Our Country is a better place for his presence and contributions. My sympathy and prayers to his family.

-- Michael, Arizona

I was honored to have met the Senator when he came to our community during his run for the Presidency. He was a man that I respected very much. Even though he was a little young, he was one of the GREATEST GENERATION of soldiers who fought for this country, a country he truly loved. He will be missed.

-- John, Florida

As a Starbucks barista in Cottonwood, Az for the past 11 years, I had the privilege of making the Senator, and his family their favorite drinks several times a year. We never spoke politics. We talked about our kids, we talked about movies, we shared a lot of laughs. He got a kick out of a John McCain bobble head my son bought me for Christmas, and I made fun of his wearing the same shirt every time I saw him. I respected him for his unending service to our country, I loved him for his sense of humor and affection. Rest east, my dear friend, the holidays will never, ever be the same for us in the Verde Valley.

-- Sandy, Arizona

Thank you for your integrity, your service, and your boldness. You made us a better nation. Finally, thank you for being part of our American family. Your life made a difference to our Republic.

-- Ricardo, California

He fought the good fight. Godspeed

-- Michael, New York

God bless Senator John McCain. God bless America.

-- Tim, New Hampshire

Not just a geat American, but a grand human being.

-- Shelly, Texas

Thank you sir, for your service to our country. We honor and appreciate your sacrifices. Condolences to your Family and Friends.

-- Jean & David, California

To all of the Senator John McCain's family and friends-Sorry for your loss. To me he was always a great man! I am a Navy Veteran also and have always saluted him for his service! I supported the Senator's run for President and he would have made a outstanding Commander in Chief! His leadership through his life story has always been uplifting to me! He clearly went through heck and back as a POW and most of us could not understand what it's like to endured what he did and survived. John McCain you were a Great Man and will be dearly missed!

-- Bruce, Washington

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

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

Let's put aside politics remember John McCain for putting his life on the line for our country family that has to live without him he's asleep no more pain beautiful memories bless his family

-- Sharon, Nevada

I have respected John McCain from the time of his captivity. I voted for him for President, and consider him the conscience of the Congress. His kind will not be found again in our nation.

-- Joseph Lee, Florida

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

Thank you Senator McCain for raising the bar and being a great leader to us. You will be missed dearly.

-- Raymond, Arizona

I first knew John McCain when as a naval officer he was the liason for the Navy to the Senate. I was on the Foreign Relations Committee which often brought us together. He was a young man in his 40's. But he was soon off to run for the House in 1982 and then the Senate in 1986 to replace Barry Goldwater. I was active in his first Senate run, campaigned with him in Arizona and found him support from around the nation which wasn't hard to do. John remembered people who helped him that first time out. I was in his home a number of times and he in mine. In the Senate he was fiercely independent - not so much at the outset but certainly as he gained seniority. His unpredictability often drove our caucus up the wall, but for me he was always a hero who didn't need excuses to follow his own path. Not only was he heroic beyond my comprhension, but he actually forgave those who had tortured and abused him. He was an amazing man. What an example he set. I was proud to be his friend

-- Senator Rudy, Minnesota

I have been so inspired by John McCain. I wish he had become our president. God bless him and his family.

-- Kim, Virginia

Thank you for your honorable service Sir. You will be greatly missed.

-- Cathy, California

John Thank You for your service to this country as nothing can ever come close to the accomplishments you have made not only in uniform but out as well. You are a national treasure and will not be forgotten.

-- Robert, Arizona

Heartfelt sympathies to the entire McCain family. A true Maverick willing to help others even those he never met. Thank you for your service, celebration and humility.

-- Kathleen, Florida

I admired him very much as did my late husband. We were proud to support his candidacy for the Presidency. He was a great man on many levels and will be missed.

-- Sarah, Wisconsin

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.

It was a honor to walk the community campaigning for John McCain for President. He gave a weary country the hope that it so desperately needed. Disappointment was an understatement when he did not win but he taught us grace and Hope over disappointment and to roll up our sleeves and move on. Reminding us, this was not about us but for a better America for the future...An amazing man, amazing legacy, and amazing patriot that taught us not to ever give up. Thank you John McCain....

-- Sharon, 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

I campaigned for John McCain in two presidential elections, at his offices in Phoenix,making phone calls and addressing mail. also I worked at a Scottsdale campaign head quarters . I so wanted Him to become president. I will always honor his memory. As a Scottsdale resident of over 37 years ...Rest in Peace JOHN MCCAIN

-- Joyce, Arizona

Navy Aviator McCain was honored by our Uncle Paul Carr. Paul flew during WII and lived his life as Sentor John McCain, a defender of the Constitution of the United States. As a Vietnam Vet and an American I am most proud of his ethics and Caring of his fellow man. John McCain was God’s Gift to us all.

-- John, Texas

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.