On August 25th, 2018, Arizona Senator John McCain passed away, leaving the nation to grieve and consider the impact of his service. McCain began treatment in 2017 for glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, and had recovered enough to resume office in the fall. His return to Capitol Hill made waves when he addressed topics like the defense budget and repealing the Affordable Care Act.

In addition to serving as a Republican Senator, McCain was also a naval aviator in the military. He was taken as a prisoner of war in Vietnam and tortured for months, making him one of the most resilient and steadfast politicians to serve America. Although people may not agree with his political stances, “that should not diminish our gratitude for his service”, said John Kyl, former Republican Senator. McCain was known for his frank speech and willingness to call out his own party in addition to his political service.

Much to everyone’s surprise, McCain asked former presidents Bush and Obama to read eulogies at his funeral a week before he died. Even though he had ceded to both of them in the 2000 and 2008 elections, he wanted to make a gesture towards bipartisanship and peace. In his final letter, he wrote: “Do not despair of our present difficulties but believe always in the promise and greatness of America, because nothing is inevitable here.” He goes on to speak of the need to tear walls down instead of building them up and stand together as a country. “Americans never quit. We never surrender. We never hide from history. We make history. Farewell fellow Americans, God bless you, and God bless America.” It was a resounding final note for a man with a resounding legacy.