Who Is Colin Powell A Good Leader

John Quincy Adams once said, “ If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” This quote describes how Colin Powell become a successful four star general after many years in the U.S army. Colin Luther Powell was born on April 5, 1937, in Harlem, New York. Powell was the child of Jamaican immigrants Luther and Maud Powell, and was raised in the South Bronx. Powell was educated in the New York City public schools, and graduated from Morris High School in 1954 with no plans what to do in the future. Powell studied geology at the City College of New York, where he found a job in the Reserve Officers' Training Corp and soon became the commander of the unit. This opportunity set him on a military
During his first tour of duty in Vietnam, “Powell was wounded by a punji-stick booby trap while patrolling the Vietnamese-Laotian border. During this first tour of duty, he was awarded a Purple Heart and, a year later, a Bronze Star”(Colin Powell Biography). Despite being injured, he pushed through the pain and finished his tour. Powell shows people that although things happen that we may not expect, it is not an excuse to give up andquit. On his second tour in Vietnam Powell was, “injured in a helicopter crash. Despite his injury, he managed to rescue his comrades from the burning helicopter, for which he was awarded the Soldier's Medal. "(Colin Powell Biography.) A hero is often seen risking their own life to save their comrades. Powell shows a lot of bravery and courage by doing this deed. Powell could have left the other people behind in the crash for the security of his life, but instead saved each one of his fellow soldiers from the accident. This shows he will not hesitate to rescue a friend or a loved one, even when his own life is on the
During a winter night in Korea, he and 500 soldiers had to walk 20 miles back to their barracks because a fuel shortage. Powell described the night as , “ Tough going. I wasn't sure I could keep up with these younger soldiers ... But I pushed it, and so did they, magnificently. At the last mile, we could look down at the lights of Camp Casey.."(Dimon). A hero is often seen being a role model to many people. This quote shows Powell setting an example to the younger soldiers. When Powell started pushing himself to the limit, it gave the other soldiers strength to keep going. Powell had confidence in his soldiers that they would keep pushing, so the soldiers had confidence in him to lead them. During a speech, Powell said, “‘Purpose is the destination of a vision ... Leaders must embed their own sense of purpose into the heart and soul of every follower.’ He discusses setting high (but achievable) standards and sticking to them. In the Army, ‘[He] never saw a good unit that wasn't always stretching to meet a higher standard.’”(Dimon). A leader is often seen helping their students to strive for their best. Powell shows that he is a leader because he helps people make high, but reachable, goals. Powell understands that if one sets the bar too low, they are not challenging themselves. While setting the bar high, one might not be able to reach it, but they try