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Local leaders react to passing of Colin Powell
Oct 18, 2021, 9:12 AM | Updated: Feb 23, 2023, 1:27 pm
FILE - In this May 21, 2001, file photo, Secretary of State Colin Powell talks with reporters during a news conference at the Department of State in Washington. Powell, former Joint Chiefs chairman and secretary of state, has died from COVID-19 complications. In an announcement on social media Monday, the family said Powell had been fully vaccinated. He was 84. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)
(AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)
SALT LAKE CITY — Local leaders around the state reflected on the loss of Colin Powell, renowned military leader and first Black US Secretary of State.
Powell’s family said Monday he died of complications from COVID-19. The former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was 84 years old.
State leaders remember Colin Powell
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox shared a painting of the general with well-wishes.
Sad news for our Country. Rest In Peace, General. https://t.co/kiOEx0k9JG
— Spencer Cox (@SpencerJCox) October 18, 2021
Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, reflected on the legacy left by the fallen leader.
Today, the nation lost a man of undaunted courage and a champion of character. A statesman & trailblazer, devoted to America and the cause of liberty, Colin Powell’s legacy of service & honor will long inspire. Ann & I offer our love & sincere condolences to Alma and his family.
— Mitt Romney (@MittRomney) October 18, 2021
Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, responded by lauding Powell’s achievements and expressing love to his family.
As former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs & America’s first Black Secretary of State, Gen. Colin Powell was an extraordinary public servant & steadfast leader for our country. I’m sending my deepest condolences to his wife Alma & the entire Powell family during this difficult time.
— Rep. Burgess Owens (@RepBurgessOwens) October 18, 2021
Former Utah Congresswoman Mia Love praised Powell’s lifetime of service protecting our country.
RIP to a distinguished public servant who helped to keep our nation safe https://t.co/ecK0Amg0Ar
— Mia Love (@MiaBLove) October 18, 2021
Rep. John Curtis, R-Utah, validated what he described as the outstanding career decisions of Colin Powell.
Today we have lost a statesman, a career soldier who pursued diplomacy over conflict throughout his public service.
My thoughts are with the Powell family. https://t.co/yxhY2xcgej
— Rep. John Curtis (@RepJohnCurtis) October 18, 2021
Gen. Colin Powell, the son of Jamaican immigrants, grew up in New York before joining the Army in 1958. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam, receiving the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts.
