By: Dr. Tom Waters
Everyone knows the name, John McCain (Navy aviator, Prisoner of War, Congressman, Senator) and you can find his biography on the Internet, in the libraries, and on TV as well as on your Smart Phone.
During his life, he had many critics and many supporters. In his death, you hear the supporters speaking loud and clear about his many positive accomplishments. Was he a Saint? No. And he admitted that he wasn’t perfect and made a lot of mistakes.
I followed McCain as a Prisoner of War (POW) in Vietnam. As a POW, he was offered early release because his father was (as was his grandfather) a 4-Star Admiral. He staunchly refused to be released before the other POW’s and stood faithfully with them while enduring torturous treatment. It was 5-1/2 years of captivity before he was able to come home. In addition to other decorations, he was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for his injuries.
I spent 11 months and 28 days in Vietnam before I was able to return home and I would never compare my Purple Heart medal to his. McCain also earned the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart and Distinguished Flying Cross. Because of his injuries, he chose to leave the Navy at the rank of Captain (0-6).
He was able (according to him) to endure the torture because of his love for the United States of America and all it stands for. As a Senator from Arizona, I didn’t always agree with him, but I always respected him. The United States is a GREAT Nation but if we had a few million more citizens like John McCain, it would be even GREATER.
Those are my thoughts but let’s see what others around the world are saying about this Senator from Arizona.
“My deepest sympathies and respect go out to the family of Senator John McCain. Our hearts and prayers are with you!” –
Donald Trump, President of the United States of America
“John McCain was a patriot of the highest order, a public servant of the rarest courage. Few sacrificed more for, or contributed more to, the welfare of his fellow citizens – and indeed freedom-loving peoples around the world,” Bush wrote in a statement. “Another American maverick and warrior, General George Patton, once observed: ‘We should thank God that men such as these have lived,’” he continued. “To that, I can only add my gratitude to John’s wife Cindy, his wonderful family, and the people of Arizona who permitted this great and good man to serve with such distinction in the world’s greatest deliberative body.” –
George H. W Bush, Former President of the United States of America
“John McCain and I were members of different generations, came from completely different backgrounds, and competed at the highest level of politics. But we shared, for all our differences, a fidelity to something higher – the ideals for which generations of Americans and immigrants alike have fought, marched, and sacrificed. We saw our political battles, even, as a privilege, something noble, an opportunity to serve as stewards of those high ideals at home, and to advance them around the world. We saw this country as a place where anything is possible – and citizenship as our patriotic obligation to ensure it forever remains that way.
“Few of us have been tested the way John once was or required to show the kind of courage that he did, but all of us can aspire to the courage to put the greater good above our own. At John’s best, he showed us what that means. And for that, we are all in his debt. Michelle and I send our most heartfelt condolences to Cindy and their family.” – Barrack Obama, Former President of the United States of America
“No words to describe the loss of Senator John McCain, a man I’ve had the honor of serving with in the U.S. Senate. Our country has lost an American war hero and statesman. Lynne and I are praying for Cindy and the entire McCain family.” –
Dean Heller, Senator of Nevada
“Sad to hear of the passing of Senator John McCain. He dedicated his life to serving our country.” – Dina Titus, Congresswoman of Nevada
“Today, our country lost a hero. Americans will always remember Senator John McCain for his service. My prayers are with his family and all who knew him.” –
Steve Sisolak, Candidate for Governor of Nevada
“Senator John McCain was a patriot and an extraordinary American war hero. Born into a storied Navy family, he spent his entire life in service to his country, including 22 years in the Navy, five and a half of which were spent under the boots of North Vietnamese communists in a Hanoi prison. First elected to Congress during the Reagan Revolution, he championed the strong national defense that he knew would help ensure the survival of freedom and liberty across the globe. He did things his way and conducted two campaigns for President of the United States with honor and integrity. Today, the State of Arizona and our entire nation have lost a great public servant. He was larger than life. Although he and I sometimes disagreed, I was deeply privileged to serve with him and proud to call him a friend. Heidi and I send our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Cindy, and to the entire McCain family, as they grieve the loss of a loving husband, father, and grandfather. May he rest in peace.” –
Ted Cruz, Senator of Texas
John McCain was a true American hero; He devoted his entire life to his country. His voice will be missed. Our respectful thoughts go to his beloved ones.” –
Emmanuel Macon, The President of France
“We convey our heartfelt condolences to the family & friends of late Senator John McCain, a great friend & a supporter of the Afghan nation & people throughout the years. In respect & appreciation, we pay tribute to his legacy. He was also a personal friend of mine. Rest In Peace.” –
Dr. Abdullah, Chief Executive of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
“John McCain was a great statesman, who embodied the idea of service over self. It was an honour to call him a friend of the UK. My deepest sympathies go to his family, and the American people.” –
Theresa May, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
“Senator John McCain was an American patriot and hero whose sacrifices for his country, and a lifetime of public service were an inspiration to millions. Canadians join Americans tonight in celebrating his life and mourning his passing.” –
Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Regardless of anything said or done, I will always remember John McCain as an American patriot and war hero. We always thank our veterans for their service in our military, but we can thank John McCain for dedicated service to our Military, our Congress, and to our Nation.
How will YOU remember Senator John S. McCain III?
