Powell's life 'a victory for the American dream' -Blinken

Powell's storied career as a military leader and diplomat was "a victory for the American dream," Blinken said, "for the principle that in our nation, people can rise as far as their talent, their capacities, their dreams and their discipline will carry them."

Blinken praised Powell's tenure as the State Department, which he led under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2005.

"He gave the State Department the very best of his leadership, his experience, his patriotism, he gave us his decency and the State Department loved him for it," Blinken said.