Tributes are coming in for Sen. John McCain of Arizona, who died on Saturday after a battle with brain cancer.
McCain served in the U.S. Senate for more than 30 years and was the Republican nominee for President in 2008. He had served as a U.S. naval aviator during the Vietnam War, and was a prisoner of war during that time.
U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., issued a statement today in memory of McCain:
“John McCain was a true American hero, whose sense of duty to our nation led to a lifetime of dedicated public service. First as a naval aviator serving in Vietnam, his honor led him to refuse early release ahead of his fellow American POWs. Then as a member of Congress and presidential candidate, John remained steadfast in his principles, always seeking to do what he thought was in our nation’s best interest. There has been no better advocate for our servicemembers and veterans than John and it was an honor to work closely with him on achieving the most significant VA reform Congress has passed in decades with the VA MISSION Act. This could not have been possible without his leadership and knowledge, and it was fitting that the bill was named after him.
“John was a friend and an example to me and many others. He leaves behind a legacy of courage and conviction – I hope we all can reflect on these values as we work together to heal and advance America. Robba and I are praying for John’s wife, Cindy, their children and grandchildren, as well as John’s mother, and we thank them for sharing John with us for so many years.”
Kansas Gov. Jeff Colyer also issued a statement on the death of Sen. McCain:
“Senator McCain will long be remembered for his years of dedicated service to our nation,” Gov. Colyer said, “We are grateful to him for his devotion to this country and send our deepest condolences to his family as they grieve his passing today. May God be with them all during this difficult time.”