When Teddy Roosevelt died, they probably said, “there will never be another like him.” Then along came John McCain. He followed Teddy’s advice to engage in the fight, whatever it was. In John’s case, the fights he chose were in service of his country and state; always, in his words, serving a cause greater than himself.
First, it was as a naval aviator which, as we know, did not end well. For more than five years, John endured unspeakable torture and deprivation. It was in the Hanoi Hilton, he said, that he really came to appreciate his country, because of the character of its people and the significance of its values. And, the experience helped him commit to a life of public service.
The next step was his late entry in a primary campaign for Congress in his new home, Arizona. He approached that as he did everything else—full throttle. I was there. He and Cindy just plain outworked everyone else, and he won. Four years later, it was on to the U.S. Senate, replacing Barry Goldwater. That’s when I began working with him as members of the Arizona delegation in Congress. We began traveling together, and I saw immediately his leadership qualities and natural instinct for the right approach to national security policy.
He also dived into Arizona issues, working with Native Americans, environmentalists, the leaders of our military installations, the business community, and many others.
When I came to the Senate, John was already establishing his reputation as an independent-minded legislator willing to work across the aisle. Ultimately, this played out most dramatically on the issues of campaign finance reform and immigration reform.
I believe John’s most important contributions, however, came with his leadership in national security aspects of U.S. international policy. He understood U.S. interests and the use of power better than most. With his extensive knowledge based on innumerable trips, meeting with foreign leaders and prolific reading, John mastered the complexities of national security policy and, I would assert, was THE national security congressional leader for the last two decades.
As chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, he not only supported a strong military, but constantly sought to make it better—and more efficient. He was honored by his colleagues who named the 2018 NDAA the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act.
John’s presidential campaigns allowed the American people to get to know him. Millions appreciated his candor, independence, and feistiness. They also saw a serious man who did not take himself too seriously and who always was ready with a humorous quip. Colleagues, especially those who have accompanied John on a long trip abroad with Lindsey Graham on board, can attest to John’s wicked humor.
John’s love of sports is well-known. He also loved music, movies, history and phone apps that make funny noises. He really loved Hidden Valley and time with the McCain clan on the banks of Oak Creek. He was a fierce defender of his family and a very proud father and husband. Things John didn’t like were the otters who ate all the fish in Oak Creek, overly partisan politicians, and Vladimir Putin. With the latter two, the feeling was mutual.
It’s been observed that John never backed away from a fight. He may even have backed into a couple. Some colleagues have said when he came to the Senate floor, if there wasn’t a fight he could join, he would start one. He would say, “a fight not enjoined is a fight not enjoyed.”
John faced his inevitable end with courage and grace. He knew he had not wasted a moment. He lived life to the fullest and made every day count. That’s a lesson for us all.
And John McCain believed deeply in America. If what he endured in Vietnam and in political losses and serious health setbacks did not lessen his faith, surely we can face the future with more optimism and faith.
