October 18, (THEWILL) – General Colin Powell, the first black US secretary of state, is being remembered as a “towering figure” , “phenomenal leader” and “superb soldier.”
General Powell, the first black US secretary of state and top military officer, died on Monday due to complications from COVID-19.
Current and former world leaders, politicians and military figures are paying tribute to General Powell, who was 84, with the president who he served as secretary of state under leading the tributes.
Former US President George W Bush:
“Laura and I are deeply saddened by the death of Colin Powell. 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. He was highly respected at home and abroad. And most important, Colin was a family man and a friend. Laura and I send Alma and their children our sincere condolences as they remember the life of a great man.”
US President Joe Biden:
“Colin embodied the highest ideals of both warrior and diplomat,” Mr Biden said.
“He was committed to our nation’s strength and security above all. Having fought in wars, he understood better than anyone that military might alone was not enough to maintain our peace and prosperity.
“From his front-seat view of history, advising presidents and shaping our nation’s policies, Colin led with his personal commitment to democratic values that make our country strong. Time and again, he put country before self, before party, before all else — in uniform and out — and it earned him the universal respect of the American people.
“Having repeatedly broken racial barriers, blazing a trail for others to follow in federal government service, Colin was committed throughout his life to investing in the next generation of leadership.”
Former British prime minister Tony Blair:
“Colin was a towering figure in American military and political leadership over many years, someone of immense capability and integrity, a hugely likeable and warm personality and a great companion, with a lovely and self-deprecating sense of humor.
“He was wonderful to work with, he inspired loyalty and respect and was one of those leaders who always treated those under them with kindness and concern.
“His life stands as a testament not only to dedicated public service but also a strong belief in willingness to work across partisan division in the interests of his country.
“I am so sorry to hear the news of his death. He still had so much to give. My thoughts and prayers are with Alma and all his large and loving extended family.”
Former US President Jimmy Carter:
“Rosalynn and I join so many around the world in mourning the loss of General Colin Powell.
“A true patriot and public servant, we were honored to work beside him to strengthen communities in the United States, help resolve conflict in Haiti, and observe elections in Jamaica.
“His courage and integrity will be an inspiration for generations to come. We will keep his family in our prayers during this difficult time.”
First female US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright:
“Colin Powell was an American icon whose career in public service will always be celebrated and remembered, but to me he was simply my friend Colin … He was a wise and principled man, a loyal friend, and one of the kindest people I have ever met.”
Tom Ridge, former Pennsylvania Governor who was George W Bush’s Homeland Security Adviser:
“Colin Powell served with great distinction & honor, a patriot who led our nation’s foreign diplomacy in those difficult days after 9/11. He was a steady and trusted advisor to the President and I was proud to have served with him.”
US Senator Mitt Romney:
“Today, the nation lost a man of undaunted courage and a champion of character. A statesman & trailblazer, devoted to America and the cause of liberty, Colin Powell’s legacy of service & honor will long inspire. Ann & I offer our love & sincere condolences to Alma and his family.”
Former joint chiefs of staff chairman Martin Dempsey:
“Just learned of the passing of my friend and mentor, Colin Powell. A superb soldier, statesman, and lifelong public servant.”
US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin:
“The world lost one of the greatest leaders that we have ever witnessed. Alma lost a great husband, and the family lost a tremendous father and I lost a tremendous personal friend and mentor. He has been my mentor for a number of years. He always made time for me and I could always go to him with tough issues. He always had great counsel…
“First African American Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, first African American Secretary of State — a man who was respected around the globe … quite frankly, it is not possible to replace a Colin Powell. We will miss him.”
Robert Charles, who served as Assistant Secretary of State under General Powell:
“This was probably one of the greatest men to live during my lifetime.
“He was both a good and a great man … He had a great sense of humour.
“He deeply cared about people … He was a friend to all; he did not take things personally. That was probably one of the ways that he got to the points in life that he got to.
“He was an incredibly compassionate person. He cared about everyone.”
“He was decent and honest with people. Integrity was always at the forefront … this was a guy who truly walked the walk; he lived the words that he spoke … always optimistic.”
Civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton:
“My condolences to the family of Colin Powell. Though we disagreed on many issues, I always respected him and was proud of his achievements.
“When he and I ran into each other and conversed, I always left feeling he was a sincere and committed man to what he believed in. RIP”
Retired US General Mark Hertling:
“He was a terrific soldier, a phenomenal leader.”
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