WASHINGTON — When Colin L. Powell died Monday due to complications of COVID-19, leaders in both parties hailed his long career of public service. Among his accomplishments: Powell served as Ronald Reagan’s national security advisor. He was the first Black chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and served during the first Persian Gulf War. In 2001, he became the nation’s first Black Secretary of State.
Vice President Kamala Harris said when she last saw Powell in July, she “was reminded then how he always showed the world the best of who we are.”
Powell “upheld the highest standards, representing our nation with dignity, grace, and strength,” Harris said in a statement.
