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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.

Condolence to the family. God bless and be with all of you now and always. I pray that God will meet all your needs during this time.

-- Shirley, Alabama

Thank you for embodying American, and especially, Arizonian ideals. Even when tried, I've never felt you were disagreeable, but properly and rightly stubborn and principled. Rest in peace Senator.

-- Coltor, Arizona

Senator McCain’s unique knowledge and commitment to the world’s security revived my optimism and determination to move forward. The bi-partisan senator is my role model. It’s impossible not to get inspired by the way he stands-up for what he believes in and how he acts with civility, sticking to his principles.

He is a world leader that has set an example in Washington and with his actions and character, reminds me and my fellow Albanians of what a leader can do and be. Because of him, I am inspired not to settle for the low standards set by any politician.

-- Edlira, Albania

Stay in hell forever! I hope you will see many children from vietnam war bastard! Murder is in hell

-- Czech, Czechia

My deepest condolences. Thank you for being a great senator. I’m a democratic and I have the highest respect for you.

-- Maria, California

John was a true hero. a man that loved his country and his God. Not all men could have endured what he went through. A man that could disagree without being disagreeable. John now that your life here on earth is over. May your name in Gold be written in the autograph of God God Bless you, your lovely wife and your family. May he continue to Bless America the country we all love

-- Richard A., Arizona

McCain Patriarch. American. Patriot. My-Kind-Of-Republican. Proverbs 31:8. Combative. Collaborator . Humble. Noble. Funny. Unpredictable. Honorable. Character. Intellectually Sovereign. Solid. Scrupled. Passionate. Unique. Tenacious. Unequivocal. Bookish. Incontrovertible. Steadfast. Vodka Snob. Charming. .........So Missed.

-- M, Texas

I sorry for you lose

-- clara, North Carolina

Much loved, much respected, very much missed - God speed Senator McCain

-- Loretta, Pennsylvania

In 2009, I was working as a physician in Phoenix and went to a meeting where John McCain was the guest speaker. After the speech, I was talking with some colleagues, turned around, and there was the Senator. I certainly did not expect that he would come out afterwards to talk with any of us. He shook my hand and thanked me for being a physician in the state. I stammered something about him always being an inspiration to me (I still have a copy of "Character is Destiny") that I am sure made little sense. Still - the fact that this important man would just come out and talk to local constituents like that always stuck with me. If the political winds had different timings, he would have been a superb President - but regardless he was a superb Senator and human being.

-- Marc, Colorado

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

I was so excited when he ran for President; I knew he would put the office and the country first. My husband and I both voted for him, and were very disappointed when he lost the election. He will be remembered, and he will be missed.

-- Miranda, New Jersey

Mr. McCain is a true hero. When viewing my own life it doesn't even compare to his. He will always be a hero of mine.

-- Shane, Michigan

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

-- mafuli, Florida

During 2000 primary, Sen. McCain gave a speech in Springfield NJ. I was police detective on security detail. He took time after speech to hang out with the cops and autographed his Faith of Our Fathers book for us. Real nice down to earth guy. A real American. Rest in Peace.

-- Judd, New Jersey

To the family and friends of Senator John McCain A sad day for the USA..i worked with John McCain. when he ran for President and Senator. I had many conversations with him..I kept telling him that he was a superman to do the things he did after being a POW for over 5years. I am very sorry for his loss.. God Bless..Thomas Bethke

-- Thomas, Arizona

My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I am sorry that Mr. John McCain had to go through such torcher in Vietnam. I did not expect him to go so suddenly. He will be missed. Although, I did not always agree with him, I did respect him. May he rest in peace. One day soon you will be reunited with him. May God Bless his family.

-- Clif, Arizona

Election 2008 inspired my son ( 13 year old at the time ) to be involved in politics. Together with me, we attended gatherings in support of John McCain. We believed that man of his moral standing was the ideal candidate for the presidency. Although, he didn't win, he continued to served the country in an exemplary manner. So very sorry for your loss. May the sweet memories be of solace at this painful time.

-- Nora, New Jersey

Our deepest sympathies to your family in this time of loss! We thank you for the sacrifice you all made as he served our nation diligently in war and in peace! Blessings!!!

-- Barb, Iowa

R E S P E C T- one word that embodies John McCain and all he stands for.

-- Cornelia, Georgia

I lost my big role model!

-- Chris, Germany

John McCain: An Honest, Loving, and Honorable Man. He was A Man of Strength, Integrity, Bravery and Faith. He had a wonderful sense of Humor and they say, "he had a bit of a temper"! Bless You John, You will be incredibly missed by Your Family and Friends. Your "Foes" won't know where to find a "Fair Honest Fight"!! A Life Fully and Well Lived...Rest now....C. Sue Collins

-- Connie, California

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

I am a Democrat who wept when hearing of Sen. Mccains death. A GREAT man, with integrity and courage.

-- Jan, Oregon

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

As a younger man, I attended the Republican National Convention where John McCain told the story of his comrade in captivity making the American flag. “A little scrap of red. A little scrap of blue.” I cannot retell that story today to my sons without crying. Thanks be to God for the life and service of John McCain.

-- Fred, South Carolina

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

John McCain Was a great man. His family can rest also because he is resting in piece. now. Again John was a great man. Thanks for every thing.

-- Raymond, Rhode Island

My heart goes out to the family thanks for your service senator McCain our thoughts and prayers gone but never forgotten Rest In Peace.

-- Franklyn, Arizona

My wife and I first met Senator McCain and his wife in 2007 in Dover, NH at a small intimate gathering unique to NH's place in politics, as he began his 2008 Presidential bid. As he shook hands with the small crowd we mentioned our son was in Iraq, and was supportive of his policies for that region. Senator McCain seemed genuinely interested, and Cindy spent more than a few moments chatting with my wife, mentioning their son would be deploying soon. We became volunteer works on Senator McCain's campaign (the first and only time we've felt the need to do that)) and as such had a few occasions to speak with him. Amazingly, he always remembered to ask about our son. We found him to be a genuine and thoughtful person. A true American who's life's impact will reverberate well into the future. Thoughts and prayers for family.

-- Mark & Deb, New Hampshire

Dear family members of the late U.S Senator John McCain, All members of Tam Bao Temple in Baton Rouge, Louisiana we send our condolences as well as compassionate energy to show love and highly respect to you and all your family members. Without doubt, you have created a wonderful life for U.S citizens. You have also dedicated to support many Vietnamese political prisoners as well as to make a new chapter for both nations; Vietnam and America. Your contributions will be forever in our hearts. Our sincerest condolences, Tam Bao Temple Thich Dao Quang

-- Thay, Louisiana

Thank you, Senator McCain.

-- Wendy, Arizona

Dear Senator, Thank you for your service to our country. May you rest in peace.

-- Jordan, Massachusetts

I never had the chance to meet senator McCain, but he was a patriot and a hero who served this great country passionately both in our military and in congress. he is truly an inspiration to many and respected and loved by all. my heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with his wife cindy, daughter meghan and the rest of his family and friends at this difficult time.

-- charlie, New York

You are a tough act to follow and will be missed. America thanks you for your service.

-- Vicki, Montana

Rest In Peace Senator McCain. Thank you for your service to our country. Very pleased to learn about the TGen Project That you brought to Arizona. I know many people will benefit from that.

-- Janie, Arizona

One of my proudest moments was speaking for him at the Iowa Caucus, and then voting for him, against all odds that fall. I will always believe that the issues we are struggling with today would not have been so extreme or intractable had he won in 2008. I would have followed him into fire if he had asked. He spent 6 years in a box in Asia, for me, my family and this country. Godspeed.

-- Charles, Iowa

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

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

Senator McCain fought for his constituency, his party and his country. He was a champion of both great ideas and compromise. The Distinguished Gentlemen from Arizona was kind enough to sign a book as a gift for one of the groomsmen at my wedding. I'll not soon forget him or his legacy. Rest in Peace Sir.

-- Aaron, Arizona

Good bye Mr. McCain: a real American Hero ., SHALOM Aleichem the Star of David protected you in your trip back Home !!!

-- Robert, Indiana

I met him on his ranch some time back. I did some work on the ranch. He gave me a big hug. He knows me as cowboy. Very nice man. He is one hell of a man. We talked for a while. But every time, I talked to him. He was very nice. I love the man. I will miss him. God bless you John. You are in the Lord's hands now. And I know you are looking down and watching all of us and everything going on. We love you. God bless John McCain. Best man I have ever known.

-- James, Arizona

We never met or saw him speak personally but always respected his service to our country. Thank you Senator John McCain.

-- Martin & Cheryl, Wisconsin

You can always trust that Senator McCain will do the right thing, the man - who selflessly leads, inspires and always stands by principles. Today, when the free world faces one of the toughest fights against the forces of darkness, we, Georgians and all the other free nations have been blessed to have him. On the day of the Russian invasion in Georgia, while being in the Presidential race his phrase “today we all are Georgians” strongly resonated across as the call to rest of the world to stand against the Russian aggression.

-- Batu, Georgia

Honorable Senator John McCain returning home from prisoner of war status is the first memory I have of this inspiring defender of The United States of America. Since that time, he has persevered in putting country above party. Character -driven leadership is his greatest legacy. May the current and next generation of leaders follow in his path. Thank you for your gallant service dear patriot.

-- FRANCES, Arizona

He was the first, and only politician who spoke for me-- a Vietnam vet. Rest In Peace

-- David, Vermont

John McCain, had he been elected President of the United States, would have not only been a very great president, he would have been able to unite the country, in spite of a hostel main stream media. There was something truly unique in John’s ability to bring any group into dialogue which ultimately benefited the whole. I’m very sad we’ve lost a leader irreplaceable in the younger generations.

-- Beth (Dorithy Elizabeth), Hawaii

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

Fair winds and following seas Warrior. Your sacrifices will not be forgotten.

-- Justin, Arizona

I met the Senator in 2007 during the NH Primary. He was both a gentleman and a great teacher. He was very kind and made sure I was comfortable at every campaign event, while knowing I was a Democrat. I will never forget the time I spent with the Senator. It was both an honor and a privilege to meet him. He inspired me then, and still inspires me to work in public service, as I currently do in the House of Representatives. I don’t feel like he’s gone. Because the Senator was such a force his spirit will be with us forever, however I miss him already. I hope in some way I can accomplish just a fraction of what he has done for this Country. I love this Country, and I will continue to serve it in the best way I can. #RIPMCCAIN

-- Angela, Ohio

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.