U.S.A House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn on the passing of Former United States Secretary of State and Joints Chief of Staff General Colin Powell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 18, 2021

CONTACT: Hope Derrick, Hope.Derrick@Mail.House.Gov, 202-226-3210

Bernadine Stallings, Bernadine.Stallings@Mail.House.Gov

MAJORITY WHIP CLYBURN STATEMENT ON PASSING OF FORMER SECRETARY OF STATE COLIN POWELL

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn issued the following statement today in reaction to the passing of Secretary Colin Powell:

“The nation has loss a consummate soldier, a committed public servant and a real patriot. Colin Powell’s storied career was one of clearing hurdles and smashing through glass ceilings. Becoming the first African American Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff at such a young age is a testament to what unbiased actions can wrought.

“I admired Colin and shared his love and respect for historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and considered it one of the highlights of my career to have introduced him when he delivered the commencement address at my alma mater, South Carolina State University, several years ago. He spoke then, as he often did, about the significant role that little HBCUs have historically played in producing general officers for the country’s armed service.

“I am proud to have known Colin and extend my sincere condolences to his wife, Alma; daughters Linda and Anne; and his son, Michael with whom my family has enjoyed a close professional relationship. He will forever be remembered in the annals of American history.”