John McCain

John McCain.

Phoenix leaders unanimously agreed to move forward with naming Terminal 3 at Sky Harbor International Airport after Arizona Sen. John McCain.

During Wednesday’s council meeting, Jim Waring — who used to work for McCain — said it’s not just about recognizing the individual, but what he represents.

“It’s someone who fights, who has displayed courage, who has worked extremely hard and given everything he has in the service of his state and his country,” Waring said.

He joined Mayor Greg Stanton and Councilwoman Debra Stark and initiated the process.

While the council supports the idea, a city commission must still review the proposal before the council can formally name Terminal 3 the John S. McCain III Terminal.

The commission’s next meeting is scheduled for Dec. 18.

Terminal 4 is named after former Arizona Sen. Barry Goldwater.