McCain lies in state in Capitol

Senator John McCain is lying in state under the dome of the Capitol today after a ceremony this morning attended by family members, congressional members, and representatives of the U.S. military. Speakers included Vice President Mike Pence, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Paul Ryan. Irish ambassador to the U.S. Dan Mulhall was also in attendance and will additionally attend Saturday’s funeral in the National Cathedral. Ambassador Mulhall said: “I am honored, as Ambassador of Ireland to the USA, to attend both the lying in state at the US Capitol and the funeral of Senator John McCain, a distinguished politician of international standing. We all know how much Senator McCain cherished his Scots-Irish heritage, as evidenced by his request for his favorite ballad, ‘Danny Boy’ to be sung at his funeral. The Senator was a great ally and friend of Ireland both on immigration reform and on the Northern Ireland peace process. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy and his contribution in both the US Senate and around the world will be missed. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.” Photo, carried by RTE News, shows Cindy McCain, wife of Senator McCain, praying at her husband’s flag draped coffin. Senator McCain will be laid to rest Sunday at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.