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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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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.

Thank you for standing up for a free press and the First Amendment. And being honest about mistakes you made in life. We all have made some. It's called being human. You will be sorely missed!

-- Kerry, Arizona

A man of Honor and Integrity

-- Gregory E, Florida

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

You were a true hero.

-- SAHBA, Texas

I campaigned for Senator McCain when he ran for President. I hold him in the highest esteem and pray for his family.

-- Bettie, Texas

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

-- Jan, Oregon

My prayers to all his family and may he Rest In Peace . It would of been a great privilege to of meet such a man my condolences to all of his loved ones

-- Maria, California

We can't say "Thank You " enough to Senator McCain to served our both country (South VietNam and US) He's our hero forever. And also Thanks Cindy and family.

-- Danny, Maryland

Vietnam was our meeting place a long time ago. I remember when he walked out of the jungle. God bless you and keep you. I shall miss you greatly. Jerry Simpson

-- Gerry, Maryland

Mr. McCain, with your life story you leave behind. You make me proud to be from Arizona and an American. You will be greatly missed. May you Rest In Peace.

-- Maria, Arizona

My extended family and I just wanted to wish our deepest condolences to your family. We are all Democrats and we really always respected and liked your father and husband very very much ..What a wonderful and amazing Legacy he leaves. We view him as one of the most courageous and dignified Senators or Congressman we have ever had or probably ever will have...We know it is so hard for you ...We are all praying for you. God bless you and you're wonderful father and husband.

-- Ardele, Pennsylvania

I wish all American would read this hero store. We must all come together in America and be more like him! I will work harder in my live. God Bless Mr.McCain and His Family

-- Mark, Louisiana

I'll always remember a great line you gave "The most dangerous place in DC is between Chuck Schumer and a TV Camera". Bless you and your family and thank you.

-- John, California

He loved the same beautiful Arizona that I once loved. He gave generously to CHOC hospital where I once worked. Good memories last.

-- kathy p., Alabama

I will never forget the Senator's reaction in defense of his competitor, Barrack Obama, during the presidential campaign of 2008. When a woman in the audience said she did not trust Obama and that Obama was an arab, McCain showed his character when he replied that Obama was a good and decent family man. A true statesman, this country has lost a special and unique person, who put his principles and love of family and country above himself. A rare thing in today's political climate! I hope (and pray) that somewhere, there is someone who can stand up for what is right, just as Senator McCain did day in and day out. Thank you sir-we are so grateful for your service!

-- Frances, Minnesota

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

Sadness on the passing of a true American hero. As a fellow USNA graduate I have always admired him. During his 50th reunion at the Academy (during his Presidential run) he took the time to come and address my class 35th reunion. A class act, he will truly be missed.

-- William, Virginia

82nd Airborne ‘73-‘76. Was Army. Our son is USNA. Absolutely HATE politics as anyone in uniform of that era will tell you. Bet he did too, but still someone has to have the guts to do it. . What a loss to this nation. Most sad half mast I have seen. Salute and Prayers to your family from WWI army, WWII navy, Korea Army, VietNam Army, today USNA. Thank you.

-- Micheal, Tennessee

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

-- franklin, Tennessee

I worked on his Presidential campaign and was devastated when he wasn't elected as our President. He was a Hero and gentleman may he rest in peace.

-- Sally, New York

Thank you Sir, for your honor, courage and service. You will be missed. Rest in peace.

-- Renee, Arizona

I have never known Mr McCain personally. My experience of who he was came only from news reports over the years. What I want to say is he was a rare human being and a noble soul. We, as a People, had a unique privilege to witness and to learn from him how to conduct our human relations with kindness, forgiveness, and cooperation. He was a true hero. He will be missed.

-- Ewa, Wisconsin

Thank you for your service John.

-- j, Minnesota

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

-- Maria, California

I'm deeply saddened to hear of Senator McCain's passing. I knew he was gravely ill, but was still shocked to hear of his passing. I can't believe I actually started crying upon the news. I didn't always agree on the politics, but still held him in esteem for his service to this country. My condolences to all of his family and close friends.

-- Teresa, Arizona

Senator John McCain was an American patriot who served his country with distinction and became a hero to many, including myself, through his selfless actions, placing his country above his personal ambitions . I was proud to have purchased his signed memoir in 2008 and I will treasure it to my dying days and pass it on to future generations. My deep condolences go his family and godspeed John in your new journey.

-- Luis, California

Thank You Mr McCain for your leadership in the Senate as well as in the Navy, RIP A viet nam veteran

-- John A, Indiana

I was waiting for a flight at DCA when I looked over and saw Senator McCain. My mom knew him fairly well so she walked me over to meet him. He immediately stood up and took the time to get to know me well. I will never forget his kind words to me as a Page in the Senate. His character and strong demeanor will never be forgotten. It was a pleasure to be in his presence. RIP

-- Max, Virginia

Senator McCain was an honest, honorable man who served his country well in war and peace. He set an example that should be seen as a standard for others.

-- Harry, Ohio

I never met John. I’m a Democrat and have much respect for his military and US senate service. We have lost a great hero and public servant and are poorer for it. There will never be another like him. My heartfelt sympathies to you his family and you are in my thoughts. Mary , Oklahoma

-- Mary, Oklahoma

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

In January of 2003 a friend and I were traveling to Vietnam. Upon arriving in Saigon we visited the former Presidential Palace, now a museum to the “American War.” Photos of John Mcaain’s capture were throughout, celebrating it. As we came up to main floor we were stunned to see Senator McCain, his wife and youngest daughter. My friend and I approached and told him how much we admired him and he and Cindy were so very kind. We gushed to our guide that this man could be President, that he was such an important American. But what really sticks with me was the grace of this man who was held prisoner in this country, tortured, his treatment celebrated in this very museum and yet, he was cordial and kind to his hosts. What grace and forgiveness far beyond the ability of most people. He was a truly great man.

-- Cathryn, Illinois

Thank you for your outstanding military service to our country. Without Patriots like you, our lives would not be what they are today.

-- Steve, Indiana

As a Navy Vietnam Verteran you were and will always be my personal hero. I share the sadness with your family. We have lost one of great ones. God Bless

-- Robert, New York

A am very sad over the loss of a great wonderful man. He will be so missed this incredible man.

-- Jill, Arizona

I had the honor of being a delegate to the 2008 Republican National Convention. I enjoyed meeting Senator McCain there and remain proud to have helped nominate him for President.

-- David, Georgia

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

-- mafuli, Florida

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

-- Matt, Montana

Citizen – hero – patriot

-- Citizen – hero – patriot, New Jersey

John was what every politician and American should want to be. he will be truly missed.

-- Luanne, Illinois

Senator John McCain rest in peace you are truly missed God bless and may he cradle you in his arms

-- Kevin Michael, Arizona

Our thoughts and prayers for the McCain family--may he rest in peace.

-- Robert, Michigan

Well, I've followed his career ever since he stepped off the plane from Vietnam and stepped back on U.S. soil. I've always thought of Johm McCain as an American hero. I was so thankful for Meghan's expression of love for her "beloved father". What father would not want such a statement from his daughter or son after he's gone. That means a "job well done" in this life.

-- William, Texas

People like John McCain are what truly make America great!

-- Kippi, Tennessee

A great role model who stayed true to his convictions despite enormous pressure from his own party. He will be missed.

-- Bill, Massachusetts

Our two kids, Mary Leigh and Joshua had their first public service experiences working hard in NH and CT on the 2008 campaigns. The Senator was kind enough to remember "the kid in the yellow jacket" years later. Tracy, the now-adult "kids" and I all appreciate the opportunity and honor to support this great American. I we only hope that he was not the last of his breed.

-- Michael, Connecticut

I extend my most Sincere Sympathy to Senator McCain's family and friends from the Deep South of Louisiana. As a Brother Vietnam Army Veteran, John made sure that our military was ready to defend America. His time in the country of Vietnam and his sacrifices there cannot be measured, but by God alone. We all have a lot to learn from his courage and wisdom. He was also a great friend and supporter of Firefighters and 1st Responders everywhere. He truly left our Country a better place. Godspeed my Brother!!!

-- Chief Michael, Louisiana

God bless Senator John McCain. God bless America.

-- Tim, New Hampshire

Mi mas sincera condolencia a la familia y a todos sus seres queridos, se ha perdido una grande persona y un ser humano extraordinario para la historia de EEUU . estara en mi memoria y en la de todos los americanos. un ciudadano español. gracias por poder expresar mis sentimientos.

-- jose javier, Spain

The world needs more John McCain’s. The McCain family has been, and will continue to be in my prayers. I am so thankful for Senator McCain’s service and love for our country. He is an example of what all that is good in our country. I pray that more of our citizens follow his example. I’l say it again, the world needs more John McCain’s.

-- Shannon, 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.