Mccain memorial makes Capitol stop
Halls of Congress house Senate icon lying in state
WASHINGTON — Congressional leaders saluted John Mccain on Friday as a model of service in war and peace and “one of the bravest souls our nation has ever produced,” in a memorial ceremony at the heart of the political battlefield where he fought for more than three decades.
Then thousands of fellow Americans, who had lined up outside the U.S. Capitol in stifling heat, began filing past in the majestic rotunda to say goodbye as he lay in state.
Mccain, the Arizona senator who died Saturday at 81, was remembered as a man who inspired other leaders even as he vexed them with a rebellious streak and impish humor.
Mccain’s service in Vietnam, and his refusal to be released early as a prisoner of war, made the setting of Friday’s service all the more fitting, some said.
“Half a world away, wearing our nation’s uniform, John Mccain stood up for every value that this Capitol building represents,” Senate Majority Leader Mitch Mcconnell told the crowd of Mccain’s family, friends and aides. “Then, he brought that same patriotism inside its walls to advocate for our service members, our veterans and our moral leadership in the world. So it is only right that today, near the end of his long journey, John lies here.”
Friday’s ceremony and public viewing was the midpoint of McCain’s five-day cross-country funeral procession.
On Saturday, the procession will pause by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the way to a formal funeral service at Washington National Cathedral.
Vice President Mike Pence, Defense Secretary James Mattis, White House Chief of Staff John Kelly and other officials represented the Trump administration at the ceremony.
Cindy Mccain was the first to pay respects at her husband’s casket. She bowed over it and appeared to pray. The last of the family to file past was his mother, 106-year-old Roberta Mccain. Wheeled up to her son’s flag-draped casket, she crossed herself and was wheeled out.