A True American Hero For the Ages

A True American Hero for the Ages I thought it would be most appropriate to take a moment to reflect on the life and public service of the late U.S. senator, retired U.S. naval officer and aviator, and military war hero from state of Arizona, John Sidney McCain III, who is, for me, a “True American Hero for the Ages.” Since I am a retired U.S. military veteran as well, there are, for me, certain qualities and attributes that clearly define, distinguish, and portray the essence of what made Senator McCain’s life, service, and commitment to the nation he loved and selflessly served—so special and important. Throughout his sixty-three years of military, political, and public service, Senator McCain embodied and personified the calling of Duty, Honor, and Country. His leadership and character, and love of country have been beyond reproach. And, beyond the churlishness of American politics, both past and present, he always believed in putting the country first and foremost as reflected by his many noted actions and unwavering support in the defense of democracy and good governance in the United States of America and worldwide. During the Vietnam War, the time McCain spent as an American prisoner of war in the infamous “Hanoi Hilton” during 1967-1973, speaks volumes to his personal bravery and courage in the face of horrific torture, abuse, and terrible treatment—and to his personal belief and commitment in standing together in solidarity with all of his fellow POWs. Senator McCain believed in the spirit of true bipartisanship during his long service and time in both the U.S. House of Representatives, and later in the U.S. Senate. This was very important to him, and was a demonstrable cornerstone in how he conducted himself as both a congressman and senator throughout his long political career. Reaching across the aisle and working with the political opposition on many occasions was one of Senator McCain’s hallmark virtues in seeking to find realistic and meaningful solutions to many problems in American society, and in helping to address the continuous challenges facing America and her allies in the realm of foreign affairs. Senator McCain was results-oriented, and fervently believed in getting things done! He was a devout Atlanticist and supporter of NATO and other international treaties that are significant to America. He recognized the critical importance of “American Exceptionalism” in the international community, and clearly saw America as that quintessential bulwark of freedom in the world. Doing the right thing was always important to Senator McCain regardless of the challenge or task at hand. He also stressed the urgency in rejecting the politics of fear, bigotry, and division in our country, and in our society writ large. Seeking out and speaking to the “Better Angels of Our Nature” was another notion and attribute he felt that all Americans should strive for and fully embrace in their interactions with one another. Finally, I will always remember Senator McCain for his innate sense of humor that he oft displayed in public forums, and for his unabashed love of country that he constantly reflected in his many of his speeches and all of the positive deeds he accomplished during his lifetime. May God Bless. Rest in Peace. Gary Bateman, Copyright © All Rights Reserved September 1, 2018 (Narrative Tribute)