John McCain’s name is synonymous with American patriotism. But what is the John Definition of a patriot? It wasn’t just waving a flag; it was a deeply ingrained ethos forged in the crucible of experience and defined by unwavering service to his country. Those who knew him understood that his profound love for the United States and its ideals wasn’t mere rhetoric. It was a conviction solidified during his harrowing years as a prisoner of war in Hanoi. Deprived of liberty, McCain truly grasped the essence of American freedom and aspiration. Upon his return, he declared that his life’s greatest duty, beyond family, was to serve this nation he cherished, ensuring the blessings of freedom extended to all, both at home and abroad.
This wasn’t just lip service. John McCain defined what it meant to be an American patriot through his actions.
His commitment extended deeply into policy, particularly in education. For McCain, education was intrinsically linked to freedom and opportunity. He passionately championed school choice, believing that families, especially those in underserved communities, should have the power to select the best educational environment for their children. As he articulated in a 2008 speech to the NAACP:
Over the years, Americans have heard a lot of “tired rhetoric” about education. We’ve heard it in the endless excuses of people who seem more concerned about their own position than about our children. We’ve heard it from politicians who accept the status quo rather than stand up for real change in our public schools. Parents ask only for schools that are safe, teachers who are competent, and diplomas that open doors of opportunity. When a public system fails, repeatedly, to meet these minimal objectives, parents ask only for a choice in the education of their children. Some parents may choose a better public school. Some may choose a private school. Many will choose a charter school. No entrenched bureaucracy or union should deny parents that choice and children that opportunity.
McCain’s focus wasn’t on maintaining the status quo. He sought to revolutionize the education system, dismantling outdated policies that hindered access to quality schools, especially for disadvantaged students. He aimed to empower teachers and school leaders, allowing them the autonomy to implement effective teaching methods on a larger scale. This dedication to individual liberty permeated all aspects of his public service, mirroring his broader definition of American ideals.
Lisa Keegan, CEO of the Arizona Chamber Foundation and former Arizona State Superintendent of Schools, recounts a poignant memory illustrating McCain’s character. The day before President Obama’s inauguration, McCain chose to participate in an Education Equality campaign event alongside figures from across the political spectrum, from Reverend Al Sharpton to Newt Gingrich. This act, attending such an event on the eve of his political opponent’s inauguration, speaks volumes about McCain’s priorities and his unwavering commitment to issues he believed in.
Keegan considered John McCain not just a colleague, but a mentor, a friend, a role model, and a hero. She learned from him the courage to be audacious, to pursue what one believes is right regardless of opposition. He exemplified intellectual honesty, demonstrating the strength in admitting mistakes and striving for improvement, even publicly. McCain demanded complete dedication and challenged those around him to give their best effort, always for the right reasons.
Beyond his public persona, McCain possessed a sharp wit and deep thoughtfulness. Keegan recalls his unexpected support when she ran for state school superintendent, offering to chair her campaign with a characteristic, “Don’t lose!”
John McCain’s passing is deeply felt, a loss of a guiding star. Yet, his legacy endures. His life provides a powerful “john definition” of patriotism – one built on service, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of a better America for all. His example continues to inspire, reminding us of the profound impact one individual, defined by principle and courage, can have on the world.
