[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 218 (Friday, December 17, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Pages S9300-S9301]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        REMEMBERING COLIN POWELL

  Mr. REED. Mr. President. I rise today to honor one of our Nation's 
most distinguished and honorable military and diplomatic leaders, Colin 
Powell.
  Few American leaders have served their nation more, from combat 
overseas as a young officer to the heights of military command and 
diplomacy on the world stage. Colin Powell will and should hold a 
renowned place in our country's history.
  Throughout his life, Colin Powell was the epitome of selfless service 
and courageous leadership. He gave everything he had to America--and 
then some. And he always did what many profess but few do: He took 
responsibility.
  Colin Powell was a trailblazer for countless Americans. He paved much 
of the way on his own. Raised in the South Bronx as the son of Jamaican 
immigrants, he joined ROTC at the City College of New York and went on 
to serve with incredible bravery in Vietnam, sustaining wounds on two 
tours and saving the lives of many fellow soldiers. Colin Powell's 
remarkable skill as a military commander was clear to everyone around 
him, and he rose quickly through the ranks, eventually becoming 
National Security Advisor to President Ronald Reagan and, later, 
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for President George H.W. Bush.
  The ``Powell Doctrine,'' as his theory of warfare would become known, 
guided the United States to its most decisive military victory since 
World War II through Operation Desert Storm. Colin Powell insisted that 
war should be the last resort in any national conflict, but, when 
necessary, it should be focused, overwhelming for the enemy, and 
controlled with clear objectives. We would do well to remember that 
vision today.

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  Colin Powell reached the summit of his career when he was named 
Secretary of State for President George W. Bush. Once again, he served 
his country selflessly and demonstrated his innate decency and 
integrity.
  A distinct honor of my life was the opportunity to work with and 
learn from Colin Powell in the years afterward. I made a point to call 
him when I was named chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. 
His advice was deeply appreciated. Indeed, both in and out of uniform, 
he advised generations of Presidents, diplomats, military leaders, and 
lawmakers with wisdom and candor. Colin did not shrink from the truth, 
and he will be remembered as one of our Nation's most thoughtful 
strategists.
  Perhaps most importantly, to the countless Americans who looked up to 
him, Colin Powell leaves a legacy of courage and integrity. He was the 
first leader of color in many of the land's highest offices, including 
National Security Advisor, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and 
Secretary of State. He was beloved by his troops, respected by his 
peers, and trusted more than any other American of his day.
  Colin Powell was resolute and honorable throughout his life and 
career, and America is fortunate to have benefited from his leadership. 
I offer my sincere condolences to Alma and his wonderful family, whom I 
know he loved deeply and fiercely.
  May we all strive for the wisdom, courage, and humility that Colin 
Powell imparted upon this great Nation.

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