He's stoic and proud, though he admits that he can be hot-headed at times. Field reports describe his courage, leadership, and extensive operational experience as much as they mention his unpredictability. He's much more than a "gentle giant as some suggest. Overall, Cowden is easy-going and unpretentious, though he get ruffled at the mention of politics. A self-proclaimed news junkie, he doesn't shy away from debates.