FORT LEAVENWORTH, Kan. - Former U.S. Secretary of State and former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, retired Gen. Colin Powell received a place of honor on the Circle of Firsts at the Buffalo Soldier Monument, here, as his bust was unveiled today.
While stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Gen. Powell was not satisfied with having two gravel roads named for the 9th and 10th Cavalry. Recognizing that these historic Black troops originated at Fort Leavenworth, he originated and became the driving force behind the July 1992 dedication of the iconic Buffalo Soldier Monument, including its 13-foot horse and rider statue, which stood as the backdrop for this ceremony.
Speaking to members of the media moments before the unveiling of the bust about the importance of the Buffalo Soldier Monument, Powell said. "This place is so important not only in Black history, but in American history -- it is a great honor that my bust is placed in the shadow of that great trooper."
During and after his military service Gen. Powell was been repeatedly recognized for his outstanding leadership and management skills by the Army, three presidents, Members of Congress, and dignitaries from around the globe. His awards include: Two Presidential Medals of Freedom; one Congressional Gold Medal; five Distinguished Service Medals; and the Bronze Star. His Foreign awards include the Honorary British Knighthood, KCB, the French Legion D'Honneur Grand Cross; and the Order of Jamaica.
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