The loss of his secretary of state is a blow to President Bush at a crucial time.

Colin Powell’s decision to leave his post as U.S. secretary of state is a severe blow to the Bush administration as well as Uncle Sam’s image abroad.

At this time it is not clear whether the distinguished former military officer and statesman decided on his own it was time to resign or if President Bush made it clear he would prefer Powell to step aside. Whatever the real story may be, Powell’s departure comes at a pivotal time in this nation’s history. He will be missed.

Powell took over the extremely difficult and important job as secretary of state after the Clinton secretaries of state Madeleine Albright and Warren Christopher, neither of whom were giants in their field. James Baker, who served as secretary of state in the George H.W. Bush administration, was a skilled and effective diplomat. But unfortunately, Uncle Sam has not had many outstanding individuals in recent years serving in this important position.

Both Bush and the nation need an effective, highly respected individual serving as secretary of state. In fact, the entire free world needs a skilled, courageous person representing this nation in international affairs.

In time, we’ll probably know what triggered Powell’s departure. Maybe he and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld didn’t get along. Maybe Powell didn’t agree with Bush’s policies, or maybe he wanted to have an opportunity to enter private business and make some money after his long career in government service.

Regardless, the loss is a big one and we hope Bush will be able to attract the services of a truly outstanding individual, one who merits the respect of governments throughout the world, and who is a true patriot.