Gen. Powell: an Impressive Late Bloomer

I read with interest the article (“A Sister’s Salute,” Feb. 17) about Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Colin Powell, based on an interview with his sister, Marilyn Berns, a Santa Ana elementary school teacher.

Mrs. Berns’ account of her brother confirmed my hunch that Gen. Powell is a “down-to-earth,” sensitive, unpretentious man, even though he holds a very awesome position in the government.

What a role model for young men! Particularly of interest is the fact that Gen. Powell was a late bloomer, not having attracted much attention for accomplishments in his early years. “Average” boys and girls can and do become great leaders, if they have parents, teachers, and/or mentors to guide them.

The article should inspire teachers and others to see the potential in all our children and give them every possible opportunity to “bloom.” I intend to share the information about this outstanding American with my college students, especially the young men of Afro-American heritage.

RUTH MAY SIEGRIST, Professor of Education, Cal State Fullerton