Profiles of Bravery
Gen. Colin L. Powell
1989: First black chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Powell made history by becoming the 12th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff-the highest military position in the Department of Defense, Oct. 1, 1989, to Sept. 30, 1993. At age 52, he became the youngest officer to serve in this position. Powell made history again when he became the first appointed black secretary of state, Jan. 20, 2001.
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