RECOGNIZING PEACE CORPS WEEK-HON. HOWARD P. "BUCK" McKEON (Extensions of Remarks - March 11, 2004)
HON. HOWARD P. "BUCK" McKEON
OF CALIFORNIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Thursday, March 11, 2004
Mr. MCKEON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Peace Corps Week, which gives us the opportunity to honor and commemorate the 43rd anniversary of the Peace Corps. During this week, celebratory and educational events take place across the country to pay tribute to the Peace Corps' influence on communities in the United States and abroad. Thousands of Peace Corps volunteers speak in classrooms, Governors issue proclamations, and former and current Peace Corps staff honor the lasting legacy of the Peace Corps with their service. I would like to join these individuals in their tribute.
Since its inception in 1961, over 170,000 Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 137 countries to promote the Peace Corps' mission of world peace and friendship. Currently, over 7,500 Volunteers are serving in 71 countries around the world-the highest number of volunteers in the field in 28 years. In 2003 alone, the number of individuals applying to serve in the Peace Corps rose by 10 percent. With continued interest from both Americans and host countries, the Peace Corps is well-positioned to continue to expand its ranks for many years to come.
The work of the Peace Corps has never been more relevant than it is today. Americans are interested in humanitarian service, and host countries are eager for our volunteers. Peace Corps volunteers share their time and talents by serving as teachers, business advisors, information technology consultants, health and HIV/AIDS educators, and youth and agriculture workers. These volunteers transfer life-changing knowledge and skills that are valued by the people of other nations. In its tenure this institution has become vital to the well-being of our country and to the international community.
During this week, we salute the men and women of this nation who selflessly serve abroad as Peace Corps Volunteers.
Recently, I had the opportunity to honor Sergeant Shiver, the organizer and first director of the Peace Corps. His lifelong service is only one shinning example of the quality of individuals the Peace Corps recruits. He, as well as many other members of the Peace Corps, has shown that one dedicated individual can create positive change in the world.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to Join my colleagues in support of National Peace Corps Week and honor past and present volunteers who carry out the Peace Corps' goals and who continue to empower people in developing and developed countries through their efforts.
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