Maryland

‘A Hero and a Patriot': DC, Maryland Flags Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of Sen. John McCain

D.C.-area leaders are remembering Sen. John McCain as a respected hero and determined patriot following the news of his death on Saturday. 

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan ordered flags to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Sunday in the Senator's honor.

Hogan said in a statement that McCain "long stood as a shining example of doing the right thing and standing up for his principles even – and especially – when the going gets tough."

“I am lucky to count myself among those privileged enough to have known him. All of us join Senator McCain’s family and colleagues in taking pride in his legacy of selfless service, grit, and determination. A grateful nation will be forever in his debt," Hogan said in part.

Mayor Muriel Bowser ordered all D.C. flags to fly at half-staff shortly after news of the longtime senator's death.

"Today, our country lost a hero and a patriot," Bowser said on Twitter. "Rest in peace to one of the most courageous public servants our country will ever know."

Sen. Tim Kaine called McCain "a champion of servicemembers, campaign finance reform and innumerable other causes."

"In the past 13 months, John has urged us to listen to each other and restore the American people’s confidence in their government. May we be responsible enough to heed to his plea, wise enough to follow his example, and fortunate enough to have a career in service as long and accomplished as his. My condolences go out to the McCain family and the people of Arizona,” Kaine said in his statement.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen from Maryland gave the following statement:

“Senator John McCain was a statesman, a veteran, and an American hero. His passion and determination were unsurpassed in the U.S. Senate, and his moral compass was unfailing. The loss of Senator McCain will be felt deeply throughout the Senate and the country – where countless Americans have benefited from his service. My prayers go out to Senator McCain’s friends, family, and constituents during this time – you are in our hearts.”

"We lost a hero tonight," said Virginia U.S. Sen. Mark Warner.

"John McCain served this country with honor, purpose and courage for his entire life, regardless of the personal cost. He was a giant of the Senate. His service, sacrifice and patriotism should be an inspiration to every American," Warner said in a statement. "My heart goes out to Cindy and the entire McCain family. The prayers of a grateful nation are with them during this difficult time."

Episcopal High School, which McCain attended for three years, said the country has lost a great public servant.

"Sen. McCain has given all of us powerful lessons in what living an honorable life can mean," the statement read.

Senator McCain will be buried at the U.S. Naval Academy Cemetery in Annapolis. He graduated there in 1958 and wrote in his book released in May that it was where he wanted to be buried.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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