Colin Powell, the first Black national security adviser, died on Monday from Covid-19 complications, according to a statement from his family. The former secretary of state and Joint Chiefs of Staff was 84 years old.
“Jill and I are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and a patriot of unmatched honor and dignity, General Colin Powell,” a statement from President Joe Biden reads. “As a Senator, I worked closely with him when he served as National Security Advisor, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and as Secretary of State. Over our many years working together – even in disagreement – Colin was always someone who gave you his best and treated you with respect. Colin embodied the highest ideals of both warrior and diplomat. He was committed to our nation’s strength and security above all.”
Powell was already struggling with early stage Parkinson’s disease and multiple myeloma when he became ill. Although he had received his Covid-19 vaccinations, his immune system was weakened by his health issues. Powell would pass away while being administered treatment at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland.
Colin L. Powell, born April 5, 1937 in Harlem, grew up in the South Bronx in a working class, two-parent home. One of the most prestigious generals in history, Powell served in the Army for 35 years going on two tours, which gave him great insight into foreign affairs, tactical war, and politics. He would serve in the role of national security adviser under the Reagan administration and as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under Bush Sr.’s administration.
Powell had established a reputation for being a transparent problem solver with views that leaned closer to conservative by the time he became the secretary of state to the administration under George W. Bush. A pivotal moment in his highly decorated career occurred when he gave his infamous address to the United Nations Security Council in 2003 where he provided a presentation supporting the war in Iraq following the 9/11 incidents. Later, it would be revealed that the premise of Iraq having “weapons of mass destruction” was misleading and based on “faulty intelligence.”
Outside of his political involvement, Powell was a major supporter of HBCUs, serving on the board of the United Negro College Fund, and although his politics were debated among the Black community, represented Black excellence for many.
“Colin Powell was a good man,” said President Biden. “He will be remembered as one of our great Americans.”
Powell is survived by his wife Alma Powell and three children.
