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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.

Have never had the pleasure of meeting him am 80 years old and he is my choice to have dinner with so much respect for him. Would love to thank him for his service to mankind and country

-- Gayle, South Carolina

A true American Hero He will be missed.

-- Jerome Denise, Arizona

Dear Cindy I am so deeply sympathy your husband he is good men We'll best to your family. Love you Anthony Canale

-- Anthony, New York

Our country most definitely lost a hero. I am proud that I reside in the same state as John McCain. He will be greatly missed.

-- Lynne, Arizona

Thank you for everything Senator McCain. I will always be grateful for your service and for repairing US-Vietnam relations.

-- Peter, California

I've got very much respect for John McCain. Have peace.

-- Ruurd, Netherlands

John McCain, you were my HERO, you are my HERO! Rest in peace, I am going to miss you.

-- Saat, Florida

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

-- Joseph, New York

"We have to fight. We have to fight against propaganda and crackpot conspiracy theories. We have to fight isolationism, protectionism, and nativism. We have to defeat those who would worsen our divisions. We have to remind our sons and daughters that we became the most powerful nation on Earth by tearing down walls, not building them." America will be poorer for losing the voice of this brave. RIP

-- Michael, Texas

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

-- Ellen, Belgium

Heartfelt sympathies to the entire McCain family. A true Maverick willing to help others even those he never met. Thank you for your service, celebration and humility.

-- Kathleen, Florida

John once said that his life was changed when he realized that he had been put on this earth for something more than his own amusement. I read these words and they transformed my attitude about my purpose on earth. I am most grateful to him for helping me see this.

-- John, 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 just wanted to express my heartfelt gratitude to this wonderful human being. My heart is broken. I was born in Africa and met my Irish American husband in Germany. He was in the military and we got married in Germany and came here. I remember during the election I was standing with my two children when we saw McCain's tour bus passing over I-4. I was jumping up and down when I saw it and started crying. I was feeling so emotional when I saw his tour bus zooming through our state. As much as I love and admire Obama, I was a McCain supporter because of his gentleness and purity. May he rest in peace. I will be praying for his wife Cindy and their family. Men like him are a blessing to all of us.

-- Eve, Florida

I met Sen. McCain in 1997 during my tenure as Chairman of the RNHA. It was a priviledge to count on him and his staff to engage in different issues related to our Hispanic community for four years. He never said no, his doors were always open and was always ready to step forward. Later, in 2008, I had the honor to be his Delegate at the National Convention held in Minneapolis/St. Paul. Always an Officer and a Gentleman! He will be missed. RIP Captain John McCain, USN (Ret)

-- Jose, Virginia

Thank you Senator McCain for raising the bar and being a great leader to us. You will be missed dearly.

-- Raymond, Arizona

John Sidney McCain III exemplified to the highest degree the ideal of fortiter, fideliter, feliciter--bravely, faithfully, cheerfully. He was a man of honor and decency. He set the standard to which all should aspire and by which all should be measured.

-- Benjamin, South Carolina

Although I didn't have personal stories to tell -- I just would like to say that I am so sorry for your loss -- it is mine, my family and all of the people who are close to me share. He was a great man -- one, no matter what political party you are from, has taught us, inspired us. We are devastated and will miss him so much. So sincerely yours.

-- Mary, New York

Dearest McCain Family, I am an officer of South Vietnam and was able to witness Senator McCain’s sacrifice and heroic actions during the war. We are forever indebted to him and his help getting us out of the communist education camp to freedom and took care of our community in Arizona. My thoughts are with your family during this time. Thank you, Tran Bui

-- Tran, Arizona

Not just a geat American, but a grand human being.

-- Shelly, Texas

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

I remember him as being a truly honorable man whom loved and worked hard at serving and protecting his country. We need more such MEN. My condolences to his family and all whom cared for him.

-- Martha, Washington

For our generation, John McCain stood as a true hero, an example of patriotism, even through the dark hours of Viet Nam, and what was to follow. Self sacrifice .. putting our country above our immediate needs... no matter what the cost. Will always honor his memory!

-- Sue, California

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

Not a memory, but a wish! A wish that those in Congress would learn from him and share his true bipartisan integrity and humanity for all! Thank you John McCain for you service, your love of America, and for maintaining a positive, professional, and inclusive approach in a time that many others don't. To all of John McCain's family and close friends, know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of millions of grateful Americans and others around the world! God bless!

-- Craig, Illinois

Sen. McCain is a tremendous loss to this country. He was a national treasure, and it’s a good thing that he stood for things bigger than himself because those things outlived him. We still have what was most important about him: the fruits of a committed life. As a retired Marine, I salute you, sir!

-- Will, California

Senator McCain gave a truly memorable speech at my graduation at the University Of Penn. in 2001. He opened with this statement: “The invitation to give this commencement address is a great honor for someone who graduated fifth from the bottom in the United States Naval Academy Class of 1958. To stand here in full academic regalia, and address an audience of distinguished academics and their learned students has reaffirmed my long held faith that in America anything is possible

-- Vick, 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 became a citizen on this Great Nation over ten years ago. I am leaving the American dream, but this dream will be not possible without true heroes like Senator McCain. Thank you Senator McCain for being a true hero and your service. Thank you for being a great example that I can learn many thing to became myself a better citizen of this great nation. I wish that I could meet you and tell you how much I admired you. God Bless your family and those that serve this country.

-- Carlo, Arizona

John McCain was; is; and will always be an American Hero. Service and Duty to our Country/our Constitution above all is the hallmark of this flawed human being who dedicated his life to creating "a more perfect Union" rather than foolishly searching for the perfect ideology. He spoke to my Civic Heart from across the isle. He deserves a "Presidential" Library; it's the least a grateful nation can humbly offer him.

-- Manuel, New York

A guiding light for the United States has been extinguished. What John McCain meant to this country will never be able to be captured in words. I never met the man, but I have wept at his passing. I will always consider it an honor to have cast a vote for him in the presidential election. I will miss his voice of reason, his bipartisanship, his good humor, and his immense love of service to his country. When John McCain did something, you did not have to question his motives, you knew he was doing what he truly thought was right. If we can all live our lives and serve our country and communities even a small fraction of that of which Senator McCain has we will be immensely better off. God Speed Good Senator.

-- Mickey, Georgia

It was an honor to do what I could. I was there for him during his Presidential campaign. He would have been a super President. I wished that I had known him better. Prayers and GOD's comfort be with the family as you grieve. He was one of a kind. Will be missed by many.

-- peggy, Arizona

I first met Sen. McCain and heard him speak at a Tucson pilot's meeting at Pinal Airport in 1989 or 1990 (not sure exact). Amazing man. Godspeed, Senator.

-- Jeff, Arizona

Our prayers and thoughts are with the McCain family. He will be truly missed

-- David, California

Senator John McCain was a compassionate man and took a stand against torture. I am thankful for all he had done for the world.

-- John, South Dakota

He was an honorable man, so much admired for his kindness, honesty and decency. Senator McCain was very much loved by many.

-- Gwen, Missouri

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

Mission Accomplished. Rest in Peace.

-- greg, Minnesota

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

My deepest condolences to Johns family and closest friends! I believe he was a man of utmost integrity! John is the reason I registered to vote. And the reason I continue to do so. I never thought it was that important until the 2008 election. He made me realize just how important it is to not only register but to actually go out and vote. He will forever be remembered not just to me but so many other people as well. May he rest in peace! And may God forever watch over us all!

-- Edward, Florida

True American Hero...May his soul Rest In Peace in God’s perpetual light

-- Dave, New York

John McCain and his family are in my prayers

-- Rebecca, Louisiana

To all of the Senator John McCain's family and friends-Sorry for your loss. To me he was always a great man! I am a Navy Veteran also and have always saluted him for his service! I supported the Senator's run for President and he would have made a outstanding Commander in Chief! His leadership through his life story has always been uplifting to me! He clearly went through heck and back as a POW and most of us could not understand what it's like to endured what he did and survived. John McCain you were a Great Man and will be dearly missed!

-- Bruce, Washington

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

My condolences to his family and friends, he stood for his beliefs and this country and thats why I voted for him when he ran for President

-- Dennis, Ohio

With all of his dedication and honest effort, he gave much for this country.

-- Charles, Arizona

About three years ago we were at the Tee Pee Restaurant in Phoenix, and we’re thrilled to see Senator McCain in the flesh! Our deepest condolences to the McCain family. It is a great loss.

-- Andrew, Arizona

I saw John McCain, during the time he was a POW, he protected other POW from being tortured. He told me that a Vietnam, soldier came to his cell and ask him if it is true that US Carriers have a swimming pool? To prevent any harm or torture to the prisoner that said this, he answered; " Yes; some have 2 pools".

-- Alfredo, Florida

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

John McCain was a hero from the Vietnam war and I admired him.

-- LaVonne, South Dakota

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.