John McCain

Imagine being on a mission when your plane is shot down and you're captured for years— that really happened to John McCain. John McCain was a Navy pilot during the Vietnam War who later became a United States Senator. This short talk focuses on his courage and long service in American life, mostly across the late 1900s and early 2000s.

In 1967 his plane was hit over North Vietnam. He survived the crash but was taken prisoner and spent more than five years in harsh camps. Even when treated badly, he refused special early release because it would have been unfair to other prisoners. That choice and his toughness made him a strong example of bravery.

After he came home, McCain turned to public service. He was elected Senator from Arizona and served for over thirty years. He also helped pass important rules about campaign money and spoke often about caring for people who served in the military. He ran for president in 2008 and worked on laws to make elections fairer, helped veterans, and often tried to work with people from both parties.

John McCain is remembered for courage, loyalty, and service. His life teaches kids that standing up for others, being honest, and helping your country are powerful ways to make a difference.