https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXRlkQVinTI

Dear Commons Community,

Yesterday the nation honored John McCain at a memorial service at the National Cathedral in Washington D.C.  Luminaries, former presidents and the family of John McCain remembered the late senator in a grand display of pomp and unity in the nation’s capital. McCain, who died at the age of 81 last Saturday after a lengthy battle with brain cancer, was an iconic figure in US politics. The Arizona Republican leaves behind a storied legacy of serving his country in Congress and in the military as a naval pilot.  Republicans and Democrats came together, set aside their differences and paid homage to McCain.  The speeches, homilies and music touched everyone who was there and watching on television.  God Bless America and the Battle Hymn of the Republic touched patriotic hearts the likes of which we have not seen since 9/11.  Renee Fleming’s rendition of Danny Boy brought tears to the eyes of those assembled including McCain’s wife, Cindy.

However, amid praise for the life and legacy of McCain were frequent lamentations of Washington’s current political climate. The man implicitly referenced in those criticisms, President Donald Trump, was asked not to attend at the late senator’s request.

Of all the speakers, the morning belonged to McCain’s daughter, Meghan, who shared emotional tearfulled remembrances of her father. Her comments also included several pointed and unmistakable references to Trump.

“We gather here to mourn the passing of American greatness. The real thing, not cheap rhetoric from men who will never come near the sacrifice he gave so willingly..” Meghan McCain said.

“The America of John McCain has no need to be made great again, because America was always great..” was greeted with sustained applause inside the cathedral.

She is following in her father’s footsteps.

Tony