His family announced Monday that Colin Powell, the former chairman of Joint Chiefs and secretary-general, had died from COVID-19 complications. He was 84.
Powell was elected the first Black chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff in 1989. He was responsible for the U.S. invasions of Panama and Kuwait in order to overthrow the Iraqi army.
His reputation was damaged when Powell, in 2003, went before the U.N. Security Council to argue for U.S. military action against Iraq. He claimed that Saddam Hussein had hiddenly stored weapons of mass destruction. He told the world that Iraq's claim that it was not a web of lies was false.
The family announced via social media that Powell was fully vaccinated.
The family stated that they have lost a wonderful and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great American.
Former President George W. Bush stated that he and Laura Bush, the former first lady, were deeply saddened at Powell's passing.
Bush stated that he was a great public servant who was widely respected both at home and abroad. Colin was a close friend and family man. Laura and I send Alma, their children, our deepest condolences.
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