Early years: John McCain, 71, was born on a US military base in Panama. Both his father and grandfather were celebrated navy admirals -- the latter commanded the US aircraft carrier fleet in the Pacific during world war two -- and there was never much doubt that he would follow in their footsteps. McCain spent his childhood bouncing from one naval base to another with his family before enrolling at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis. He was a lacklustre student with a rebellious streak that often landed him in trouble. He also led a colourful social life, including a period dating a Brazilian exotic dancer.

After graduating fifth from bottom of his class, McCain opted to become a naval airman. He survived a crash into the Gulf of Mexico while training in Texas -- the first of several near-death experiences over the course of his flying career.