the days since the senator passed away. mr. trump posted a tweet, my deepest sympathies and respect go to the family of senator john mccain. our hearts and prayers are with you. a longer statement was drafted, but not used. the flags at the white house brought to half staff were brought to full staff, then half staff in the afternoon. the president issued a statement brief, but ordering the flags half staff. despite differences on policy and politics, i respect his service to our country. this came after the head of the american legion released a statement saying on behalf of the wartime veterans, i strongly urge you to make a presidential proclamation noting his death and legacy of service to the nation. for mr. trump, a continuation of assault on the former prisoner of war. >> he's not a war hero. he's a war hero because he was