US Embassy in Vietnam announces new fellowship in honor of McCain

The US Embassy in Vietnam announced a new fellowship in honor of Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) on Sunday.

“In honor of Senator McCain’s contributions and those of his former U.S. Senate colleague and long-time collaborator on U.S.-Vietnam issues, John Kerry, the U.S. Mission in Vietnam will launch the McCain/Kerry Fellowship,” the U.S. Mission wrote in a statement Sunday.

“Each year a young Vietnamese leader committed to public service will travel on a U.S. study tour, deepening ties between our peoples and furthering the positive legacy of Senator McCain,” the statement continued.

{mosads}

“The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in Vietnam mourn the passing of Senator John McCain.”

McCain died Saturday night at 81 from brain cancer.

The late Arizona Republic was held as a prisoner of war in Vietnam for years after being shot down while deployed as a naval aviator. During his imprisonment, the late senator said he was beaten and tortured.

“For decades, he championed the U.S.-Vietnam relationship, bravely forging a path for our two nations to transform from enemies to partners,” the Mission continued in its statement. “He will be sorely missed.”

The Mission also announced it will be opening a condolence book from Aug. 27-29 for “all who wish to share a message with the McCain Family.”

Americans lay flowers at the McCain’s crash site in Vietnam on Sunday in honor of the senator.