Within the context of imperialism and the status quo of the United States of America's continuious wars since the beginning in 1776. Powell was a great man who stuck to his principles and had a core to which he attempted to live by. Well written Mr. President.

I feel shame for living as the privileged American - the world's bully and it's many war crimes. I have a debt to pay the many other nations for murdering those who disagreed, stood in the way of capitalism ie footholds into the oil fields etc.

I have dedicated my life to serving those that are suffering. It's a small part of paying back a debt while living in it's privilege.

Nevertheless, Colin Powell lived by his principles - I can admire that while condemming his actions as a war criminal. His life can be mourned as a man who was not a General but just man. As a General he has his own debt to be paid for all those that have died by his commands.