General Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.) became the 65th Secretary of State on January 20, 2001. As he stated at his confirmation hearing, the guiding principle of U.S. foreign policy during his tenure was that "America stands ready to help any country that wishes to join the democratic world."
General Powell brought extensive experience with him to his office. Before becoming Secretary of State, Colin Powell served as a key aide to the Secretary of Defense and as National Security Advisor to President Reagan. He also served 35 years in the United States Army, rising to the rank of Four-Star General and serving as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (1989-1993). During this time he oversaw 28 crises including the Panama intervention of 1989 and Operation Desert Storm in the victorious 1991 Persian Gulf War.
Born in New York City on April 5, 1937, General Powell was raised in the South Bronx. His parents immigrated to the United States from Jamaica. General Powell was educated in the New York City public schools, graduating from Morris High School and City College of New York (CCNY).
General Powell is the recipient of numerous US military and civilian awards and decorations including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, and two Presidential Medals of Freedom.
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