Admiral John Sidney "Slew" McCain Sr., A Sailor's Story
Admiral John Sidney "Slew" McCain Sr., A Sailor's Story
Although he had considered West Point, McCain chose the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, graduating in 1906. Early in his naval career, he sailed with the Great White Fleet from 1907 to 1909 aboard the USS Connecticut, taking part in the historic demonstration of American naval power around the world. He later served with the Asiatic Fleet and held various assignments that broadened his operational experience.
During the years surrounding World War I, McCain served as executive officer of the USS Colorado and later aboard the USS San Diego, providing Atlantic convoy protection. He was also briefly assigned to the Bureau of Navigation in Washington in 1918.
Through the 1920s and early 1930s, McCain rotated through sea assignments, including service aboard the USS Maryland, USS New Mexico, and his first command, the USS Sirius. His career took a decisive turn when he entered naval aviation training, graduating as a naval aviator in 1936, at a time when many officers were already well established in traditional surface warfare roles.
He went on to command the aircraft carrier USS Ranger and later the Aircraft Scouting Force, helping to shape doctrine during the formative years of carrier aviation.
After the attack on Pearl Harbor and the United States’ entry into World War II, McCain was appointed Commander, Aircraft, South Pacific, in May 1942. He later served as Chief of the Bureau of Aeronautics and was promoted to Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Air, playing a central role in expanding and organizing naval aviation during wartime.
In August 1944, he returned to combat command, taking charge of fast carrier forces under Task Force 38. He played a significant role in the Mariana Islands campaign, the Battle of the Philippine Sea, and subsequent operations across the Pacific.
During the Battle Off Samar in October 1944, McCain famously ordered his carriers to move in support of Admiral Clifton Sprague’s escort carriers after intercepting urgent radio transmissions, even before formal orders arrived. His aggressive action helped recover the aircraft and applied pressure that contributed to the Japanese fleet’s withdrawal.
By 1945, McCain was physically exhausted and prepared to retire, but he remained in service through Japan’s surrender aboard USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945.
Just four days later, on September 6, 1945, Admiral John Sidney “Slew” McCain Sr. died of a heart attack. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
His legacy extends beyond a single war. He helped build the modern structure of American naval aviation and established a family tradition of service that would continue through his son and grandson.
Some officers fight wars. Others help define how wars are fought. Admiral McCain did both.
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