Waking this morning to word that General Colin Powell has died. Powell was an American politician, diplomat and four-star general who served as the 65th United States Secretary of State and the first African American in that position. Powell was also the 16th United States National Security Advisor and the 12th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Regardless of ones politics, it must be said that Powell was a trailblazer and had support from all kinds of people. He was probably the most popular military figure since Dwight Eisenhower.
In 2007, The New York Times published an interview with him in which he described himself: "Powell is a problem-solver. He was taught as a soldier to solve problems. So he has views, but he’s not an ideologue. He has passion, but he’s not a fanatic. He’s first and foremost a problem-solver."
This morning, former President George W. Bush, who selected Powell to serve as Secretary of State in his administration, praised him saying "He was a great public servant, starting with his time as a soldier during Vietnam. Many Presidents relied on General Powell's counsel and experience. He was such a favorite of Presidents that he earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom - twice."
Rest in peace General Powell and thanks for your service.
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