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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.

As I sit and listen to the life of Senator John McCain, I knew about his time as captured solider, his friendship with Senator Edward Kennedy. So much can be said about his work as Senator to our nation.I respected him because he put country before party. He ran for President twice and both the men that he ran against both President's Bush and Obama will speak at his funeral service. So to honor his life we all should try to bring back kindness in our lives. To speak the truth, own to our errors and poor judgement. Stop with calling the truth lies, to stop name calling,to respect the press. Not saying this is fake etc. Will everything be perfect in our country no. But take this time to reflect on TRUE patriots of America. That was Senator John McCain. My prayers to his family and Friends

-- tracey, Pennsylvania

John McCain was the epitome of an Honorable human being. I remember I wanted him to win the presidential election very much. May he rest in peace

-- lisa, New York

The American polity is populated by many great people – that is, to say, individuals of power and influence. There are also good people – individuals of principle, honor and purpose who elevate and inspire us by their example. But rare are the souls in the nation’s public life who are truly both great and good. One of the few has now passed from our midst. He will be missed. John was well-known for being hard-nosed in his causes, but he was equally tender hearted. Accompanying his boxer’s toughness and resolve, was a poet’s sensibilities. He was the most formidable adversary and the best of allies. For his colleagues on the public stage he was often both. For John it was never personal or partisan or about the politics. The objective was always duty, the public interest, and what was right as he saw it. On that you could depend.

It’s no secret that John McCain’s hero was Theodore Roosevelt. And certainly no one personified TR’s “the man in the arena” more than John. Like Roosevelt’s ideal, he strived valiantly. He erred and came up short from time to time. He knew great enthusiasms and great devotions. Above all, he spent every ounce of his life and spirit on worthy causes. Three will stand out in our hearts and, hopefully, in the nation’s consciousness for generations to come: for every person to treasure freedom, to love the country and one another, and to serve causes greater than self-interest. As we lower our flags to honor a fallen patriot, may we lift our hearts in gratitude and with a renewed commitment to do and be better. Thank you, John. Fair winds and following seas!

-- John, Virginia

Senator McCain and the Institute's focus on character driven leadership sets it apart from other organizations. My experience with the Next Generation Leader's program provided me with the insights and skills to make an enduring and positive impact in Canada. This foundational year provides emerging leaders with an unprecedented opportunity to refine their own leadership values and the opportunity to develop an action plan to make a positive impact in their field of choice.

-- Michael, Canada

I don't have any personal memories of Mr. McCain, I just would like to express my condolences to the family.

-- Barb, Ohio

As a former Scoutmaster, SenMccain would den alter tI My new Eagle Scouts. It inlckude. a letter about making a flag out of scraps while he was a prisoner. My son still has his letter and he is 48 now. He never failed to make this Scout feel good.

-- John, Arizona

Shook hands with John and his beautiful wife when I did a little work on his 2008 presidential campaign. Nice people.

-- Gilbert, California

Thank you for being a continual beacon of decency and forthrightness for all Americans. Rest, knowing you will be missed.

-- Nicole, Ohio

A great American statesman and hero. I have admired him throughout his career. I have retired from the USAF as a Colonel and honor him for the sacrifices he has made for his country.

-- Bruce, Indiana

Quite a few years back, John McCain came to Lake Havasu & there was always a party at Marie Meahl's home. Fond memories of him & even had my picture taken with Senator McCain which I still have. God Bless his family with such a loss.

-- Patricia, Arizona

Senator McCain and the Governor were speaking at the VA National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona for Memorial Day services. He spoke of ISIS. Was America first early on. Thank you for your service and sacrifice to this great nation.

-- Joseph, Arizona

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

You were a great man of God May you RIP.

-- Harry, Virginia

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

We wish to share our feelings about a true American hero.

-- Robert, Indiana

Thank you for your sacrifice and service. You endured more than we could ever know. I appreciated your honesty and truth....even though I may not have always agreed. I supported and voted for you in 2008 because of you love of country and honesty. Rest in peace sir! Prayers for the entire McCain family as you grieve the loss of this great man. May God and Americans wrap you in hugs and prayers. May God Bless America!

-- Chris, Ohio

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

Senator John McCain represented the values and character that strengthened the very foundation of our democracy. Judy and I , are joined by are entire family in sending our sympathy and love. I willl never forget campaigning with the Senatorhis unswerving path of love for America,enduring optimism,and unfailing,though occasionally biting humor. How blessed to have known him and have him put “my friend” befor my name.

-- Lew and Judy, Florida

Supported John in both his runs for the Presidency and almost volunteered to go to South Carolina to work in the campaign in 2008. Wish I had so I may have got a chance to meet him and thank him for his service to this country

-- Andy, North Carolina

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

John McCain put Arizona on the map for politics. I'm proud to call myself an Arizonan. Thank you Senator McCain for all you did for this country.

-- Jamie, Arizona

Thank you John McCain! Blessings to your family!

-- Larry, Arizona

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

Sir, it was an honor and privilege to briefly work for you as a Senate intern in 2008, and campaign volunteer since 2008. In the summer of 2009, my phone rang while I was studying for the AZ bar exam. I noticed it was from a McCain Senate office number, and upon answering heard, "Mike, John McCain. Thanks for volunteering on my campaign. I am going to need your help in 2010. Can I count on you?" "Roger sir." That Senator McCain found time to personally call a former intern and volunteer speaks volumes about him as a man and leader. Like countless others, knowing him changed my life for the better. I pray for Cindy and his family, and thank them for sharing him with us. Lord, thank You for giving John McCain to this world, and I believe You have already welcomed him to Your Kindgdom.

-- Mike, Arizona

Thank you senator John McCain you are the greatest..# highly respected #Loved forever #RIP

-- Kimberly, Louisiana

Country before party, allies before foes, liberty before despots. Living currently in Europe I was asleep when the news of the untimely death of John McCain came. A friend from DC who knew the Senator well woke me up. My reaction was very simple: I cried and I am not ashamed of it. RIP.

-- Giles, Switzerland

John was often commenting that we had know each other since the early '80s. We shared some fun experiences at Grand Canyon's El Tovar for lunches and dinners over the years. We rafted the Colorado, hiked the Canyon, and co- chairs of the GCNP Foundation. My favorite memory was introducing him at a Foundation Cookout. I had been a Vietnam helicopter pilot, but never experienced his pain or truma... I introduced him as MY HERO and as the next President of the United States. I am honored to have known him and have wonderful memories.

-- Allen, Arizona

Truly respected my 5th cousin. A man of his word, a man of truth, and he shared those truths.

-- Vanessa, California

Thank you for your service. You are a true American hero

-- Nancy, Virginia

Thank You Sir! A patriot and a hero - America will never see a political leader like him again.

-- John, Portugal

RIP John McCain . You have truly set the bar, and no more need be said. Peter

-- Peter, New Jersey

John taught me that character is the most important quality of a leader....measured by actions ... guantified with respect ...appreciated with love...he was an awesome soul!

-- Bernie, Massachusetts

A few years ago, I wrote Senator John McCain a letter. In the letter, I wrote to him about a charity that he was working on to help the disenfranchised and poor here in America. I wanted to know, from him, why we did not hear more about wonderful things like about his work in the news. I also wrote in the letter that I am a Democrat. Therefore, I did not expect to hear back from him. But, I did. He sent a most wonderful warm response and signed it in ink (smile). I am a US Veteran. Senator McCain's service is and always be unmatched. When we lost him, the sorrow is as great as the day we lost John F. Kennedy. Our Nation's Hero set the highest example that MOST will never achieve. But, at least we can honor him and keep trying!

-- Stan-Joseph, Georgia

I remember when the Great John McCain defended the name of Barack Obama when a lady tried to say he was a Muslim. He stood up for Obama at a time when so many others are trying to divide the nation. He was a politician that really brought Americans together.

-- Dominic, Georgia

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

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 to our country, and for sharing your remarkable life with all Americans. Peace, and safe travels.

-- Greg, Wisconsin

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

Thank you Senator McCain for your service & sacrifice to our country and your undying/unwavering commitment to make our country better for all. God speed and fly high. Gods blessings of peace to his family and friends.

-- Dana, Illinois

I have nothing but respect for John. God bless John and family.

-- John, Pennsylvania

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

Peace to you fellow Vietnam veteran. You are an honorable gentleman!

-- stuart, Hawaii

He was truly man of his word. He greatly be missed.. I salute you my brother of the military. RIP

-- Monica, Georgia

He was a man of true honor and courage. His unique style and humor will be missed in this world.

-- Mike, California

Proud to be from the State of Arizona where John McCain was my representative in the Senate. A true war hero, a great leader and a servant of our country. God Bless his family.

-- Dana, Arizona

You will be missed. Continue to watch over us. Thank you for your service Our American Hero. RIP

-- paula, New York

"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." - Ralph Waldo Emerson In every sense, we can say that Senator John McCain succeeded.

-- Anthony, Georgia

Thank You so Very Much. Bryan Brinegar

-- Bryan, California

I am a Texas resident, but that Didn’t keep me from Donating to Mr McCain re- election campaign.To me he was a true Republican. Admire his tenacity, and courage . True warrior. He will be missed by a lot of people. My condolences to all the Mc Cain family. May his Soul Rest In Peace.

-- Gustavo, Texas

RIP John A true hero.

-- Gary, California

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.