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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

Sincere condolences to the McCain family. Senator McCain was a great gentleman. An outstanding person within the human race.

-- Ellen, Belgium

John McCain was a true American hero.He did lot's of great things for USA,and for democracy in the world.His leadership will be great example for young generation.He will be remembered as best leader in America,and in the world.

-- Mensur, North Carolina

I only knew Senator McCain from TV. I saw in Him a strong virtuous man. I am not religious, but I wish my deepest sympathies to his family and friends. I doubt He will EVER be forgot. Least of all by me. Love John T.

-- John, Nebraska

It is a fact that Sen. John McCain is from the United States, but he is to serve the people everywhere. He did not choose to only become a leader for the people of the America, but he chose to lead and empower thousands of young men and women of the world to become leaders. His commitment to excellence has inspired thousands, and his actions will do touch the lives of millions. McCain’s fight was for a cause greater than self-interest. For me, it is his greatest legacy. This rich legacy of Sen. John McCain will take the new generation of leaders to a level that they can make the world more peaceful.”

-- Siham, Iraq

It was a tremendous honor to be part of the convention to elect Senator McCain president. He and Governor Palin would have been great for our country. His legacy will remain: a hero, a warrior, a man who stood for right, who gave to our Country. He will hear “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

-- Monterey, Nevada

He was a great man and my hope in this hard time for our country. Will be remembered forever!

-- vladislav, Pennsylvania

I did not personally meet Mr. McCain, but my son did when we lived at Dobson Ranch in the early 1980s. John had an office in the ABCO shopping center. One day, my son and his friend were riding bikes behind the stores when they spotted a pallet of soda at the back of McCain's office. Being young boys they started to take some soda, when John came out. Instead of yelling at the boys, he offered them each a soda. My son always remembered that little incident!

-- Joy, Arizona

we miss you and we prays you alway..............

-- HUONG, Virginia

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

-- Vicki, Montana

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 sir for every thing you did for this great country you will be missed god bless .

-- mike, Washington

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

-- Joseph, New York

Rest in peace, Senator McCain. Your legacy lives on. Democrat or Republican, we appreciate you. You are our hero. My deepest condolences to the family.

-- Danielle, Florida

I am so very sorry to hear of the Senators passing. His life of service and dedication to our Country Has left this Country a better place and he will always be a role model. My sincere sympathy and thoughts to his Family.

-- Bill, Pennsylvania

He was a man of true integrity and love for this country and humanity. You will be sincerely missed but remembered as the great force you are.

-- Alicia, Maryland

He was a great man respected by most Canadians. He was a real hero who loved his country and knew how to interact with representatives of the world. He would’ve been a perfect President. May he rest in peace.

-- John, Canada

Senator John McCain was a man of honor and brave war hero who always put his country and family first. He is an inspiration to every American and we will miss him. May he Rest In Peace.

-- Dan, New Jersey

My husband Richard (USMC Viet Nam 1967) and I express our appreciation for Senator McCain's service, of all kinds. And sorrow to his family as he will be deeply missed. May God bless you, each one, and grant you comfort and deeper faith in Christ alone.

-- Kathryn, Arizona

Fair Winds and Following Seas, Shipmate, you stand relieved, We have the watch. To one of my heros! Who was an exceptional American, hero and leader! -RIP John McCain. Go Navy!

-- Courtney, Minnesota

Semper Fidelis, John. You were always one of my heroes and held the ideals of our country to such a high esteem that I became a Republican back in the late 90s when I was a Marine. You will be sorry missed, but the marines at the gate to your next destination will will be happy to see you.

-- Miguel, Virginia

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

We were Naval Academy classmates. He was my naval and American hero.

-- Thomas, Hawaii

I worked for Senator McCain presidential campaign. I was a coordinator for getting him on the Virginia primary ballot. I also work many hours during the campaign. I believe that he was a great American hero and someone who we should all strive to be emulate. Nobody did more for his country than the Senator, and I wish will my heart that he gets his final reward. I would like to extend my family sympathy. He provide my family the freedoms we enjoy.

-- Bob, Louisiana

I saw Senator McCain on Hilton Head Island, SC...he was so dynamic and funny. I have a son who is a Cmdr. in the Navy and I know that Mr. McCain was one of his influences. My thanks, most especially to his family...they sacrificed a great deal for him to do his work for us, bless you during this very difficult time.

-- Toni, Texas

I am unknown to John, but he is highly regarded by me and many people in Australia, a fine person who many could emulate if they wanted to be a fine person. You have been and continue to be an inspiring person to me and many others. RIP Sir.

-- Paul, Australia

I voted for John McCain. He would have been a great president! However, he was a great senator and patriot!

-- Dean, Colorado

When I think of the legacy of John McCain I think of a man who was so humble, that he cared more about what God thought about him, than what others believed. He did not follow the crowd, nor run with whatever the latest fad was to be. Honesty and the ability to see through all the rhetoric was the mainstay of this wonderful patriot. We could all learn a lot from him and I hope those in government take a moment to realize who and what they have lost. Our country has grown a bit poorer with his passing...

-- Dave, California

Citizen – hero – patriot

-- Citizen – hero – patriot, New Jersey

My memories of the Senator involve being introduced by LtCol Orson Swindle, USMC, POW, his and my friend. Will not write long, I admired the Senator for all the reasons others have said, but most of all because HE was a real patriot , and we as a strong Nati0n, in his image, will prevail.

-- Col Bob, Maine

Thank you for your service to America. RIP Senator McCain

-- Joseph, Alabama

John McCain, a name to remember, a man served his country with honor! -- David, a Chinese Canadian Citizen

-- David, Florida

John McCain: An outstanding man and the best example of what a true American in politics should be, there are few that have the ability today to work with "let's work together" attitude but he was open for that. He has inspired both sides of the isle. he inspired me. Senator McCain stood firm when he refused to leave his men in Vietnam. He will always be known as a great American hero. I am saddened he is gone but feel he served his country well, showed self respect in the way he lived his personal life and political life. He is a man that God will take into eternity. Senator McCain is probably one of the few men that will be talked about in decades and years to come. God bless his sweet family.

-- Carol, Tennessee

A leader. A patriot. An honorable soul. A true American.

-- Adam, Michigan

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

Sen. McCain was a true American hero, and an incredible American. I am proud to be part of a culture that, with the exception of the moronic, mendacious, slimy ball of fecal matter presently slumming in the WH, was proud to have John McCain as a part of, and a representative of this government; he was a true Man of the People, a warrior, and a man of ideals, who stood up for what he believed in, whatever the odds. Rest in Peace, Sen. McCain.

-- Kurt, California

He would have been the Best President ever!! Also a President for everyone, not just his party. Hopefully his life will influence the rest of the USA. He was truly a great & honest person!!

-- Shirley, California

I did not know John McCain personally, but loved his sense of honor and integrity. My father was a Marine and taught me to always be honorable and stand up for what I believed in. I lost him at 81 years old and was very close to him. Married to Vietnam veteran also. This brave man will be missed and I know my Dad would have written too. God Bless him and Mrs. McCain and family Ruthie

-- Ruthie, New Jersey

Sen . John McCain you will be miss I just cane not get over your last words to us all. God Speed John McCain Thank you for your Service

-- Alma, Ohio

While I was a POW in several prisons in Hanoi, John McCain was an inspiration for me to make it "one more day." It was a distinct honor to help in his 2008 Presidential Campaign. He would have been a terrific President! GBU JSM

-- Tom, South Carolina

He is a man with dignity and respect. He’s great father, brother, and human person... btw am Arizona resident n I’ll miss him. ??????

-- Maanka, Arizona

Here is what I said to the US Senate Armed Services Committee at my confirmation hearing last November. "Senator McCain and other members of the SASC, it is an honor to be here. It is humbling to be considered for this position and I thank Secretary Mattis and the President for placing their trust and confidence in me. Senator McCain- as a young Air Force officer going through Aerospace Medicine Primary and SERE training in the early 1980’s, one of your fellow POW’s who spoke to our class mentioned your name as an exemplar of courage and integrity and I have always looked up to you." I meant every word. After I read this, Sen. McCain quietly said, "Thank you..."

-- Dean, California

I send my heartfelt condolences to a man that fought the fight in so many ways ...probably the hardest fight was the horrible disease called cancer.May he RIP.So sorry to his family.

-- Marion, New York

We lost a tremendous man, warrior and public servant. God speed to the family

-- Kevin, Illinois

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

I first would like to say how sorry I am for his devoted family... my prayers will be with you during such a difficult time ... may your memories comfort you.. I was at a parade in Florence, SC my son’s high school JrROTC did the Color Guard for the parade .. I was proudly watching my son and all the sudden there was Mr McCain in the parade... he was running for president at that time ... I said Oh my there is John McCain and he looked heard me and looked over and waved ... meant a lot that he would take his busy time to visit a small town parade and participate... he touched us all in many ways ...he was a brave blessing to our country! Rest In Peace to this tireless soldier !! Peace to his family!!!

-- Susan, Georgia

I feel grateful for service and his love of family and his country

-- Betty, Oregon

I have followed John McCain's career since I was 16 years old from the late '70's. I recognized his devotion to his fellow countrymen and personal honor. He will always be an inspiration to me and an example of a great American. May your soul be at rest.

-- Scott, California

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

and this the power family I m send though my senator McCain touched the lives of people everywhere he traveled 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 johns 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 johns life by continuing his legacy of service and leaving this world a better place for generations to come the McCain family

-- ashley, 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.