The passing of Senator John McCain was a somber event that united people from across the political spectrum in mourning and admiration for a man who dedicated his life to serving his country. One of the highlights of his memorial service was the eulogy delivered by Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States. This article will explore the significance of Obama's eulogy, the timing of the speech, and provide you with a powerful, reflective example from the speech itself.
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Significance of Obama's Eulogy
Barack Obama's eulogy for John McCain was particularly significant for several reasons. First, it highlighted the relationship between the two men, who were once political opponents in the 2008 presidential election. Despite being on opposite ends of the political spectrum, the two maintained a mutual respect for one another and managed to forge a strong bond, united in their love for their country.
Another reason the eulogy is significant is that it serves as a testament to McCain's character, and his willingness to work across party lines for the greater good. At a time when American politics is increasingly polarized, Obama's tribute to McCain is a powerful reminder of the importance of bipartisanship and the potential for unity despite differences.
Time of Obama's Eulogy
The memorial service for John McCain began at 10:00 AM on September 1, 2018, at the Washington National Cathedral. Barack Obama delivered the eulogy in the middle of this service. Though exact times for eulogies are not typically publicized, his speech took place after a series of tributes by family members, close friends, and former colleagues of the late senator.
Preparing for a Eulogy
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While Barack Obama likely had an entire team of speechwriters and advisors working to prepare his tribute to McCain, many people do not have that same level of support. Fortunately, tools like Eulogy Assistant can help simplify the process of writing a heartfelt and meaningful eulogy for a loved one. Starting the writing process early, understanding the desired tone of the eulogy, and gathering personal anecdotes can all help in crafting a speech that honors the memory of the deceased.
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Here is an excerpt from Barack Obama's eulogy for John McCain:
"But, for all our differences, for all of the times we sparred, I never tried to hide — and I think John came to understand — the longstanding admiration that I had for him. By his own account, John was a rebellious young man. In his case, that's understandable, what faster way to distinguish yourself when you're the son and grandson of admirals than to mutiny? Eventually, though, he concluded that the only way to really make his mark on the world is to commit to something bigger than yourself. And for John, that meant answering the highest of callings — serving his country in a time of war."
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was John McCain?
John Sidney McCain III was an American politician who served as a Senator from Arizona. He was a naval aviator in the United States Navy and a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War, whose experiences shaped his later political perspectives. McCain was the Republican nominee for President in the 2008 election and was known for his bipartisan approach to governance.
What relationship did Barack Obama have with John McCain?
Barack Obama and John McCain were political rivals, most notably in the 2008 presidential election. Despite their rivalry, they shared a mutual respect and a common commitment to civil discourse and public service. After McCain's death, Obama has often spoken of McCain's role in elevating political debate and his dedication to the United States.
Why has Barack Obama been chosen to deliver the eulogy for John McCain?
Barack Obama was chosen at the request of John McCain himself prior to his passing. McCain's decision to ask Obama, a former opponent, reflected his desire to show the country the importance of bridging political divides and the virtue of bipartisanship.
What time is the eulogy expected to be delivered?
The exact time of the eulogy can vary depending on the scheduled events of the day. For the most current information, attendees and viewers should refer to the official program or news outlets covering the service.
Where can I watch the eulogy?
The eulogy can typically be watched on major news networks that will cover the funeral service. It is also possible to stream it online through various news outlets' live streaming services.
Can I attend the service where Obama will deliver the eulogy?
Attendance at the service might be restricted due to space limitations and security reasons. Usually, such services are reserved for family, friends, dignitaries, and invited guests.
Will there be other speakers at the funeral service?
Yes, it is common at a service of such significance to have multiple speakers who represent different aspects of the deceased's life, including personal friends, family members, and colleagues from across the political spectrum.
What has Obama said about John McCain in the past?
Barack Obama has often praised John McCain for his service to the nation and for his conviction, even when they disagreed politically. Obama has highlighted McCain's principled stance on various issues and his willingness to cross party lines for the good of the country.
What is expected to be the focus of Obama’s eulogy for John McCain?
The focus of Obama's eulogy is expected to be a celebration of McCain's life, his service to the nation, and his impact on American politics, as well as a call for unity and civility in public discourse.
How long will the eulogy be?
The length of the eulogy may vary; it will likely be long enough to adequately honor John McCain's legacy while considering the overall schedule of the memorial service.
Will the eulogy be available for viewing after the service?
Yes, the eulogy, along with the full service, will likely be archived by news organizations and may be available on various platforms for later viewing.
What might be the personal challenges for Obama in delivering this eulogy?
Obama may face the challenge of reflecting on the deep relationship and rivalry he shared with McCain, capturing the essence of McCain's complex character and the bipartisan nature that defined him, all while helping to comfort a grieving nation.
How has the public reacted to the announcement of Obama delivering the eulogy?
The public reaction has been generally positive, with many people seeing it as symbolic of McCain's approach to politics and a refreshing display of respect across party lines.
Is the choice of Obama to deliver the eulogy unprecedented?
While not completely unprecedented, it is relatively rare for a political figure to select a former rival from an opposing party to eulogize them, making this a notable and historic event.
What are the likely themes that will be highlighted by Obama?
Obama is likely to highlight themes such as service, duty, honor, and the importance of unity within the country's political discourse.
Will the service be conducted with full military honors?
Since John McCain was a veteran who served honorably, his service may include full military honors to recognize his sacrifice and dedication to the nation.
Are there any expected tributes or ceremonies before the eulogy?
There may be tributes and ceremonies such as the presentation of the colors, military salutes, and readings that reflect on McCain’s life and legacy.
Has McCain’s family released a statement about Obama delivering the eulogy?
The McCain family has publicly expressed their gratitude towards Obama for accepting the invitation to speak, emphasizing the message of unity that John McCain endorsed.
How can I pay my respects to John McCain?
Those wishing to pay their respects can do so in multiple ways, such as attending local memorial services, signing online condolence books, making a donation to a charity endorsed by the McCain family, or engaging in civic activities that honor McCain's legacy of service.
Has President Trump been invited to the funeral service?
Details regarding the guest list are provided by the McCain family or funeral organizers. For privacy and security reasons, specifics about who is invited to private events are not always disclosed to the public.
What impact did McCain’s military service have on his political career?
McCain’s military service, particularly his time as a prisoner of war, deeply influenced his views and values. It instilled in him a profound sense of duty, patriotism, and a commitment to public service, which were evident throughout his political career.
What can we expect to take away from Obama’s eulogy?
Listeners can expect to take away a sense of the importance of John McCain's contributions to the nation, a call for continued public service and civic duty, and perhaps a renewed sense of hope for bipartisan cooperation and dialogue in U.S. politics.
Barack Obama's eulogy for John McCain was a powerful tribute that celebrated the life of a great American hero. It is an excellent example of the power of words to bring people together, emphasize common values, and provoke introspection on the importance of unity and selflessness. We hope this article has provided you with insight into the timing and significance of Obama's eulogy. We invite you to share this article with others who may be interested and to explore more guides on Eulogy Assistant for help in crafting a meaningful tribute for a loved one.