John was a screw up in flight training.
He flew at least one aircraft into the drink during that period. He lost two aircraft around this time.
He was certified with only 2 of 6 required deck landings.
It is said that he did not fly at the right altitude when he was shot down.
It is said he broke both arms because he didn’t adhere to proper bail-out procedures.
The guy was a total screw up.
He takes credit for not leaving the POW camp early, because he didn’t want to abandon the others. That was a standing order from Stockdale, that they would only leave together.
Watching him in action against veterans groups and the MIA families, convinces me this man is not worthy honoring.
Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] John Sidney McCain, III (NSN: 0-624787), United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 26 October 1967 in North Vietnam. While attacking the thermal power plant at Hanoi, Commander McCain, despite extremely heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire and more than fifteen surface-to-air missiles in the air, pursued the attack until his aircraft was hit by enemy anti-aircraft fire. Although his aircraft was severely damaged, he continued his bomb delivery pass and released his bombs on the target. When the aircraft would not recover from the dive, Commander McCain was forced to eject over the target. By his exceptional courage, superb airmanship, and total devotion to duty, Commander McCain reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Action Date: October 26, 1967
Service: Navy
Rank: Commander
Source http://valor.militarytimes.com/recipient.php?recipientid=23680
Fascinating information from all you guys. I truly appreciate it and love to hear your stories. However,I must admit to being somewhat confused, as there appears even among you all to be diametrically opposing viewpoints regarding McCain and his service and what really happened. Are there any reputable books written about McCain’s service years and did he really have some or more of his war records classified so no one can see them? If so, was any explanation ever given as to why?