Diplomatic giant, dead at 69

Richard C. Holbrooke, diplomatic troubleshooter and special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, died yesterday evening at age 69 in Washington. Read the NY Times obit here.

Vice President Biden wrote:

"Richard Holbrooke was a larger than life figure, who through his brilliance, determination and sheer force of will helped bend the curve of history in the direction of progress ... He was a tireless negotiator, a relentless advocate for American interests, and the most talented diplomat we've had in a generation."

Per the Washington Post, family members said his final words before being sedated for surgery were: "You've got to stop this war in Afghanistan." As last words go, these were both sobering and chilling.