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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.

Our prayers are with your family

-- thomas, New York

I've long admired and respected Sen. McCain for his strength, leadership and love of America. He dedicated his whole life to serving our country, striving to make it better and stronger, and becoming a mentor to many.

-- Susan, Texas

I lived on the site of his bombing target in Hanoi (2015-2016) next to the lake he landed in. Everyday I walked past his memorial - John McCain, Air Force! The Vietnamese could not understand how a man flying was not in the Air Force. I visited Hoa Lo (Hanoi Hilton) often and found the display of his rescue photos heart wrenching. I have always had absolute respect for John McCain. For his service, his leadership, his willingness to do what's right even if it costs, and for his candor. God Bless John McCain and may he rest in richly deserved peace.

-- Karen, Pennsylvania

A true hero and patriot. We thank him for his service, love and courage for our Country. He was always there with sincere help when called upon. Our condolences go out to his family during this time. God bless him and may he Rest In Peace with Our Lord.

-- Sandra, Arizona

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

-- Cynthia, New York

No words will be able express my gratitude. Strength and Courage. United we Stand. "Then join hand in hand, brave Americans all! By uniting we stand, by dividing we fall"-John Dickinson Thank You John McCain. Thank You God.

-- Kim, California

My memory of John McCain is that he always was straight to the point. I am a Democrat and there were things that I did not agree with. But what I loved the most is that he reached across the aisle i know he is watching down on his family and smiling and saying "keep o fighting". You will be greatly missed. Tracyann, New Jersey

-- Tracyann, New Jersey

John McCain: An Honest, Loving, and Honorable Man. He was A Man of Strength, Integrity, Bravery and Faith. He had a wonderful sense of Humor and they say, "he had a bit of a temper"! Bless You John, You will be incredibly missed by Your Family and Friends. Your "Foes" won't know where to find a "Fair Honest Fight"!! A Life Fully and Well Lived...Rest now....C. Sue Collins

-- Connie, California

A truly loving father and kind man. Thank you for your service.

-- Teresa, Arizona

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

Senator McCain was a true American Hero. His service to our country including the fact he could have been released from Vietnam during his capture but said no, he would not leave his fellow soldiers behind, is a show of true loyalty and courage which cannot be matched. Thank you Senator for your service during the war and thank you for your public service thereafter in Congress. America was blessed to have you.

-- John, Pennsylvania

This country has lost a guiding light. I’m saddened for his loss and my prayers are with the family. I know that he is looking down on heaven watching over us. My wish is his passing will inspire others in Congress to take up his cause.

-- Al, Pennsylvania

Senator McCain was a rare individual and a true American hero. He will be greatly missed. It was my honor to work on his Presidential campaign. My sincere condolences to his close friends and family.

-- Becky, Missouri

While a Senator and Presidential Candidate in 2008 we were very lucky to attend a wonderful campaign stop Senator McCain made in Miami, Fl. It was late at night but the mood and crowd was electric. God Bless you Senator and your entire wonderful family!

-- Richard, Florida

It is my prayer we find someone with your honesty and competence to lead and govern us. God bless you!

-- Steven, Arizona

John McCain was the greatest man of his generation. Also. of mine.

-- Tim, Maryland

Senator McCain, was a great American, great leader, great man , My deepest sympathy to the family, rest in peace.

-- Lorenzo, Arizona

Senator John S. McCain was one of the most inspirational characters of my lifetime. I was an US Army Spec. 4 in Vietnam from 1969 -1970 and witnessed John's return home on the television. I remember being so impressed with his service and the enormous difficulty attached to his captivity. I tell and have told my three children of his incredible courage, service, dedication and honor to this great country. As a politician he represented action, problem solving, respect for colleagues on both sides and an affection for country and respect for its people unrivaled by other members of Congress. He will be sorely missed and our great institutions have lost a great advocate. God Bless John S. McCain and Cindy and his entire family. Please accept the appreciation of a grateful nation.

-- Michael J, New York

A hero I wish he was from my state God bless his soul Missing You senator McCain

-- Ali, 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

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

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

-- Saat, Florida

He was someone who had something that should be taught in every school classroom. Patriotism.

-- Adrienne, Arizona

Thank you John McCain for everything you have done for our country. Hero’s never die only retired.

-- Edwin, California

I am sad and disappointed that I did not get a chance to meet you in person. It was always a pleasure to listen to what you had to say! A great man and role model for us. Thank you for your service Sir!

-- Patrick, Arizona

I had never voted in my life, then I heard that John McCain was running for President of the United States. I voted for the first time - ever - for John McCain.

-- Teres, Pennsylvania

You will be missed Senator McCain, but your legacy will endure forever. Thank you for teaching us what it means to be a man of impeccable honor.

-- Pat, Massachusetts

A True Hero.

-- Dolores, Arizona

It's with the deepest heart felt sympathy I send this note. I am so sorry to hearing this. I know you must be with the knowledge that our Good Lord is watching over our Senator now. We pray for you the family at this time. God Bless you all.

-- Victor, Arizona

Many of our nations problems would be solved if everyone in Washington had the integrity of Senator John McCain. - Not a Republican.

-- Brad, Maine

He was the best and finest... and a rare thing -- an honest man who led us with decency and with care through tough times. He is already missed, and we can only pray that there is a future John McCain out there who will dedicate their life to doing what he tried to do -- govern with honor and with compromise and compassion and, yes, with Decency. Rest in Peace, John McCain. We were lucky and blessed to have had you serve us all those years. Thank you.

-- Donna and Michael, Arizona

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

Senator McCain was one of the last great politicians in this country. I will remember him as a principled man who stuck to his guns and argued for what he thought was right, regardless of who was on the opposite side of the issue or his party’s position. I doubt that we will be fortunate enough to see any politician like him again. I am grateful to him for his service to our country and to his adherence to his principles. I send my love and respect to his family and hope they will know how much the American people will miss him.

-- David, New Jersey

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

-- Raymond, Arizona

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

Thank You !

-- Alvin, Pennsylvania

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

I was on the wrestling squad at Episcopal High School with John McCain, and I supported him financially and with a vote in both of his races for President. He was a bona fide American hero whom I admired greatly.

-- Robert, Virginia

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

To the McCain Family Although I did not know Senator McCain personally,I respected him greatly. As a veteran, he made me proud! Master Sergeant, USAF, RETIRED

-- Cassandra, Alabama

Condolences to the McCain family - Sen. McCain was the best of the best, somebody with an unbreakable spirit. We need more like you, lots more.

-- Tina, California

as a wife of a Marine jet pilot serving his tour in Vietnam , I was so afraid my husband could be shot down and taken as POW. We have a bracelet to this day framed on the wall in our company of a RIO of his f-4 phantom still listed as missing after all these years. after 121 missions Richard did come home but lost about 1/3 of his squadron. We saw Orson Swindle come off the plane in 73' whom rich had met in the Philippines on R&R and a fellow POW of Sen McCain and have followed Sen McCain's career. We send our sincere regards to the family and this time of our lives during the war will never be forgotten and those that served. jan & Rich Buckley

-- janet, California

A true American hero. May God rest his soul

-- Neal, Connecticut

What a great man! The definition of integrity is John McCain. For my trip to Vietnam, he gave me note signed by him to keep me safe. A true American hero, he is what our country always needed and always will. He will be missed! John, please guide us from above.

-- Pierre, Arizona

I will never forget when God put it on my heart to support Senator McCain's campaign. The more I learned about Senator McCain, the more I respected him and appreciated all that he had done for this country. Even the man he was personally impressed me. I gathered signatures in VA to insure his name appeared on the primary ballot. I was privileged to see him in the rotunda of the US Capitol building after fighting all night on the Senate floor. After that, he slept all day on the couch in his office. There were so many things he did publicly that made a difference in this nation, but there was so much more that most people don't even know. Senator McCain was a blessing to the US, and I pray that God comforts his family with memories of all of his wonderful contributions and his model life.

-- Markita, Virginia

I found the Senator inspiring, volunteered for the Reform Institute, and supported all his campaigns. We've lost our best, but I'll do mine to raise children who'll work towards McCain's vision of America.

-- Doug, California

Fair winds and following seas Warrior. Your sacrifices will not be forgotten.

-- Justin, Arizona

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

-- Peter, California

God bless John McCain. We will miss you.

-- Jane, Pennsylvania

I think of John McCain as a comrade who served this great Nation with love of service to country, family, self, and humanity. God Bless his Spirit and God Bless America.

-- Paul, 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.