Cardin Statement on the Passing of Colin Powell

ELLICOTT City, Md. – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) released the following statement on the passing of General Colin Powell, former U.S. Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

“On behalf of all Marylanders, I want to express my condolences to the Powell family. America has lost a great patriot. Secretary Powell was an incredible soldier, diplomat and leader. He served during some of the most challenging times in our nation’s history.

“While we disagreed about the Iraq War in 2002, Secretary Powell dedicated his career to his country. He served with distinction in Vietnam, and then rose to the highest levels of the Pentagon to be Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and National Security Advisor to the President. As America’s top diplomat, he worked as Secretary of State to strengthen the State Department and its collaboration with Congress.

“He mentored countless soldiers and others along the way, providing inspiration and encouragement to those who would follow in his footsteps. Most recently, he spoke out against those leaders who ignore their oath of office and prioritize political loyalty over country.

“Throughout the course of his lifetime, Secretary Powell served his country with integrity and honor.  He will be missed.”

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