General Colin Powell

General Colin Powell served as the highest-ranking African-American officer in U.S. history. Born in Harlem to Jamaican immigrant parents, Powell joined the Army ROTC in college. In two tours of Vietnam, he was awarded two Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star, a Soldier's Medal, and the Legion of Merit. Powell's parallel careers in the military and politics brought him to high-level positions in the Carter, Reagan, and Bush administrations, including national security advisor and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Powell retired from the army in 1993. He now promotes volunteerism as chairman of America's Promise-The Alliance for Youth.

Resources for Teachers and Students

Reflections on Working Towards Peace