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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 like John McCain, I wish I had meet him and his family.

-- David, Texas

God holds a special place for people like Senator McCain. His service has always been an inspiration to my undying love for our Country. Unfortunately all warriors must pass but his time here made an incredible difference. God Bless John McCain and God Bless these United States of America

-- David, Arizona

I never met Senator McCain personally, but worked diligently on his Presidential Campaign in GA. I wish he had been our President over those eight years, but it was not to be. My husband is a former Marine, so I greatly appreciate the sacrifices our military give for our country. I greatly appreciate and am thankful for John McCain and his great service to our country. may he Rest in Peace. May God be with you, his family and give you comfort and peace. Fair winds and following seas.

-- Carolyn, Georgia

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

John reminded me of my late Father, who also served in combat in Vietnam as a soldier in the Marine Corps. My dad thought much of John McCain and said so on a number of occasions. My support of the Presidential Nomination of John McCain was in part a way of honoring my own father, but also a way of honoring a man who served a cause greater than himself. John truly loved America and all the way to the end. I attended the Republican Party of Florida's Convention in Orlando where I was one of a few present who were publicly supporting John. It seemed that his eventual nomination was in doubt based on the number of his supporters present there. Yet, it was of course an electric evening. May the Peace of Christ that Passes All Understanding Keep the McCain Family in His Grace to Life Eternal. Amen.

-- Jason, Florida

THE SENATORWAS SPEAKING IN AKRON, OHIO AT THE HILTON HOTEL.WE PASSED EACHOTHER IN THE HALL. I THANKED HIM FOR HIS SUPPORT OF ISRAEL,AND HE SAID"DON'T WORRY".WE SHOOK HANDS.

-- HARVEY, Ohio

Thank you from a dedicated Democrat

-- Linda, Arizona

Condolences to his Family, friends and all who loved him. Rest and your spirit shall touch us. My older brother lost his life in Vietnam, and so I know John's enormous sacrifice.

-- Cheryl, Florida

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

Thank you for your service, commitment to the USA and being an all around decent human being. Although, I didn't always agree with your politics, I respected your opinions and more important you. RIP

-- Johnny, California

This is my tribute to an example of Values and Virtues of a Human Being. From a young age he understood that he could go far in service of our country- perhaps with an able help from his family. And as destiny and God would have it, he lands in a foreign country who could have none of his military values. And it is there where he learns that His Country is and should stand for much more that freedom, democracy, but for the benefit of all in this planet. And he matures his senses of Duty, Country, and Liberty, and Love, and Religion. Maturity came from pain and solitude and comparison of values and states of well being. A sense of team, collaboration, and mission and purpose took this young aviator to give true words to the words Hero, Senator, Father, Mentor, Husband, Son, and sailor of Legacy. RIP

-- Gus, California

God bless this family. Remarkable gentleman. His family and world has lost a true leader.

-- Susan, Nevada

I never knew Senator McCain personally, though have been in his company at various political events in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. over the years. But all my adult life I have tried to emulate Senator McCain's love of country, concern for his fellow man, putting country over political party, taking your work but not yourself seriously, and having a little fun along the way. To this day I can visualize his captivity, feel his struggle and pain as a prisoner of war, and marvel at his remarkable positive spirit-despite all odds. But what he has left and given will never be forgotten. In fact, his legacy will hopefully give all citizens hope and faith for a better world. Made that way by Senator John McCain. To his family, my deepest sympathy. He will live on in generations of hopeful, defiant Americans.

-- Dava, Maryland

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

Sen. McCain, you will be missed. Even though I did not agree with all your opinions. I respected the integrity and conviction you held and carried yourself with. America lost a great public servant today. God be with you.

-- Andrew, California

You set the example for us to follow. Well done my friend! Now take your place in the Kingdom of God.

-- Texanna, Florida

Dear All, We are Canadian but have watched with great respect over many, many years how Senator McCain unflinchingly always chose the correct and most positive road for American citizens and America, often disregarding partisan politics. America, and more especially his loved family, have lost a truly great Patriot, husband and father, and person who cared selflessly for the greater good. Not only has America, but the World, has lost a person that we all loved. Our thoughts go out to the McCain family and all Americans who identified with his always most laudable causes. Gob Bless John, his family and America.

-- Norman, Canada

I never met John McCain, but it looks like he cared a lot about the American People, He spoke up about the what was right and wrong about politics, He voted in the house about which way to go about each bill the way it was planned out, God Bless you RIP John McCain, our condolences goes out to the family, Thank you for your service.

-- Melanie, Arizona

RIP, the whole world is proud of your legacy. As a Syrian i thank you for the support and help you have offered to the Syrian people. My God mercy your sole and may God bless you.

-- Feras, Syria

A real American. One of a kind. So long.

-- Dave, Florida

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

as men who "go down to the sea in ships" farewell, god speed." Anchors Away" John Sidney McCain

-- Arnell, California

I was and had been a huge supporter of John McCain! I’m so saddened to hear of his passing! My thoughts and prayer go out to the McCain family! Thank You John McCain for your Service and all that it intails!!!!!This country lost the best of the best !!!!!

-- Lori, Michigan

I loved supporting him for President, my heart was broken when Obama won, John you were a true hero. A true states man. You gave us reason to trust an believe. How lucky the Lord God is to have you. You will truly be missed. Please watch over us from that garden above.

-- Rhonda, New Mexico

Senator McCain, Your passing causes me much sadness. There are very few men like you that loved our country as much as you did in your lifetime. Thank you for your service to our beloved country.

-- Alice, California

I never meet Sen. John McCain. However throughout my 66 years of this earth I got to know Senator McCain. He was a good, decent man. He was a good family man. He was a Vietnam war hero. I called him my friend even though I never got to shake his hand. The world will miss Sen. McCain. His smile, his tenacity but most of all his character. He will for generations be a model of what each one of us should emulate each day. Character, truth, honesty, and his love of his family and country. May Sen. McCain rest now in the loving grace of God our Father and his Son Jesus Christ.

-- Randolph, Rhode Island

Sen McCain I miss your honesty and wisdom. You are our Hero and we will never forget your sacrifice and contributions to our great Country. Ramesh V Kapur

-- Ramesh, Massachusetts

An Honorable man, an American Patriot devoted to what is right for America. You will be missed.

-- Nancy Morton, North Carolina

Some politicians will be remembered as a good Republican or a good Democrat. John McCain will be remembered as a good man.

-- Richard, Indiana

Senator McCain was a true American Hero and Patriot who deserves the respect and gratitude of EVERY American. Thank you Senator McCain for a job well done. Rest In Peace.

-- Leo J., New Jersey

I loved him too. Met John at the Memorial Day celebration at the veterans cemetery two years ago and gave him a kiss and a hug. I wispered in his ear that I loved him and thanked him for all he did for the people of Arizona. He stood back a bit and looked me in the eye and said, you made my day and you’re very welcome. He made me feel like the most important person in the whole world at moment. I’ll ever forget that sweet person.

-- JoAnn, Arizona

Sen. John McCain was a good and decent man. I'll remember him that way and be thankful for his extraordinary service to our country.

-- Carol, Florida

Although my Polítical Ideologies were diferent I always admired the History and nobility that Transpired from Sen. McCain. Someone who clearly had the love for his Country and Fellow Citizens needed by any Leader. His Force and his legacy are inspirational to any one in the World! I'll look up for his legacy for years to come. America lost his Last True Hero. May God guards His Soul in Peace.

-- Gonçalo, Portugal

Truly will be missed and a great person .And rest in peace.

-- Greg, Colorado

I met Senator McCain during his 2008 Presidential run, One of the highlights of my life. Unfortunately he lost, but I was struck by his display of character when defending President Obama as a good family man when a constituent expressed that she did not trust him. That’s what I will remember most about him. His character…

-- Robert, New Jersey

Above and beyond his illustrious life and career, he was a prince of a guy. We loved him!

-- Cynthia, New York

I am a regular American who has never met Sen. John McCain. However, I can say that I have always admired his strength and courage in light of what he went through during the Vietnam war. He could have come back, withdrew into his own world after the horrors he endured, but instead he continued to serve his country for decades to come, and raised a wonderful family. He is an American hero for the ages. Rest in Peace with our Lord and your family and friends who have gone before you. May Mrs. McCain and family know they are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

-- Carol, Florida

Many thanks John. All the best to the family.

-- Craig, Florida

The world is in search of character-driven leaders today. Senator McCain’s ability to see this in well advance and started supporting and cultivating character-driven leaders through the McCain Institute for International Leadership is the true quality of MAN. Cultivating and supporting the special talent and/or character-driven leaders of tomorrow is the highest of goodness one can do in this life time. And I am grateful Senator McCain is leading this effort in the USA through Next Generation Leaders program and it was rare opportunity of great reflection and realization time in my life that changed my perception, ignorance, and Senator McCain is truly bringing the world peace next level through his great effort of supporting and bringing up the character-driven Next Generation Leaders of the world. In today’s politically polarized culture throughout the world, other politicians can learn from Senator McCain at least his way of putting country over the political party.

-- Gantuya, Mongolia

Thank you John for your service to all people of this nation. both in war and peace. Fair winds and calm seas on your journey. RIP.

-- Robert, California

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

To The McCain Family: I never met the Senator,but I appreciate his service to our nation.May God's peace and comfort be yours at this time.I am praying for you.

-- Jeff, New Jersey

We love you John.

-- Jerry, Michigan

John McCain was a real life Rambo like in the movie that is why I voted for John

-- JOLEEN, Massachusetts

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

Well done good and faithful servant.

-- Marha, New York

Thank you for all your service,I 'm sure this world will never see someone as remarkable as yourself. R.I.P

-- Jane, Arizona

John McCain and I flew, on the A4 Skyhawk , from NAS Cecil Field, Florida to KINGSVILLE, TEXAS; he was speaking to future Navy pilots. The Sky Hawk was the type of airplane he flew in the Navy; I will never forget his smile after making a perfect landing back at Cecil Field. We enjoyed our flight and enjoyed the hoagie in Texas before we flew back to Florida. Then Itold him, "You will be making Admal and given a Carrier to command." To my surprise, I saw him on TV as Senetore of Arizona. He answered. "Alfredo, I am going into politics" When I found out he was a Senetor, I said " when he says he will do something; he does it. me he was going into polytecs. WHERE he was giving a conference. was giving at Kingsville Texas. We flew out of NAVAL AIR STATION CECIL, FL.

-- Alfredo, Florida

Thank you for your service to all of us! Heaven is rejoicing!

-- Melissa, Florida

John McCain, a true patriot and guarian of freedom. He was a man of integrity. He served h

-- Gordon, Wisconsin

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.