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John Sidney McCain III, the longtime Arizona senator, former Navy pilot and Vietnam War prisoner of war who became the Republican nominee for president in 2008, died on August 25, 2018, at the age of 81. His death followed a battle with brain cancer, bringing an end to a public life shaped by military service, national politics and decades in the U.S. Senate.

McCain died at his home in Arizona, one day after his family announced that he would discontinue medical treatment. His wife, Cindy McCain, and other family members were with him when he passed away.

His death prompted tributes across the United States, reflecting a career that included years of captivity during the Vietnam War, six Senate election victories and an unsuccessful campaign for the presidency.

What Was the Cause of John McCain’s Death?

John McCain died from complications related to brain cancer on August 25, 2018. He had been diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, in 2017.

In the days before his death, McCain’s family announced that he had decided to stop receiving medical treatment. The decision came after a prolonged period of treatment and recovery at his Arizona home.

He was 81 years old. His death marked the end of more than three decades representing Arizona in Congress and a military career that preceded his political service.

John McCain’s Early Life and Military Family

McCain was born on August 29, 1936, in the Panama Canal Zone, then under U.S. administration. He came from a family with a long naval tradition: both his father and paternal grandfather were admirals in the United States Navy.

He attended the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, graduating in 1958 before beginning his career as a naval aviator. His early life and military background would become central to his public identity and later political career.

His Years as a Prisoner of War in Vietnam

One of the defining chapters of McCain’s life began on October 26, 1967, when his aircraft was shot down over North Vietnam during a combat mission. He suffered serious injuries and was captured.

McCain spent more than five years as a prisoner of war, enduring beatings, torture and prolonged isolation. Although his captors offered him opportunities for early release because of his father’s senior position in the Navy, he refused to leave ahead of fellow prisoners, citing the military code of conduct.

He was released on March 14, 1973, and returned to the United States. His wartime experience and the injuries he sustained affected his health and military prospects, but he remained committed to public service. He retired from the Navy in 1981.

John McCain’s Political Career in Arizona

After leaving the Navy, McCain moved into politics. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1982 and served two terms before winning election to the U.S. Senate in 1986.

He represented Arizona in the Senate until his death in 2018. During those years, McCain became known nationally for his work on military affairs, national security and foreign policy. He also developed a reputation for occasionally breaking with members of his own party on major political questions.

His political career included two presidential campaigns. He sought the Republican nomination in 2000 and became the party’s presidential nominee in 2008, when he faced Democratic nominee Barack Obama in the general election.

Family and Final Days

McCain was married to Cindy McCain, and their family remained close to him during his illness. His daughter Meghan McCain also publicly reflected on her father’s death and the influence he had on her life.

The family’s announcement on August 24, 2018, that McCain would discontinue cancer treatment was followed by news of his death the next day. He died at 4:28 p.m., with Cindy and other family members beside him.

Memorial Services and Final Resting Place

Following his death, McCain was honored through memorial events in Arizona and Washington, D.C. His body lay in state at the Arizona State Capitol, and memorial services recognized his military service and decades in public office.

He was buried at the United States Naval Academy Cemetery in Annapolis, Maryland, a final resting place connected to the institution where his military career began.

John McCain’s Legacy

John McCain’s legacy encompasses his service as a naval aviator, his years as a prisoner of war and his long tenure in Congress. His life also reflected the tensions and disagreements that can accompany a career at the center of American political debate.

For supporters, his military service and commitment to public life remain central to his memory. His political decisions and positions also remain part of the broader record through which his career is assessed.

His death in 2018 brought an end to a prominent chapter in Arizona and national politics, but his public record continues to be discussed in accounts of modern American political history.

John McCain Personal Details

Disclaimer

This article is an informational account of John McCain’s life, death and public service. It is intended for general historical and biographical purposes. Details are presented as a summary of his publicly documented life and career.