National Peace Corps Week

Floor Speech

Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I rise today to acknowledge National Peace Corps Week and the many U.S. Peace Corps volunteers serving across the globe.

There are currently 22 U.S. Peace Corps volunteers from Wyoming who are serving around the world. These men and women have joined a unique organization of people who are willing to make a personal commitment to lend a helping hand to those in the world who are less fortunate than us.

These Americans often live and work in challenging areas as they partner with their local counterparts to aid development. Peace Corps volunteers have made significant contributions assisting people to improve health care services, create business opportunities, promote education, and develop resources.

Many people in the world today are suffering from political unrest, natural disasters, disease, and a lack of economic opportunities. I commend all the Peace Corps volunteers who leave behind the comforts of home to live in different areas of the world and work to make the world a better place.

The Peace Corps volunteers' reputation as ambassadors of good-will demonstrates the ability of individuals to make a difference in our world. As they work alongside people from different nations, these volunteers have the opportunity to represent America and the values that we hold dear. Additionally, our volunteers' knowledge of the unique challenges people face gives us insight into developing better relations with other countries. I applaud their efforts and dedication.

I would like to recognize the men and women from Wyoming who are currently serving as U.S. Peace Corps volunteers: Lisa J. Balland, serving in Uganda; Thomas P. Burian, serving in Capre Verde; Bria M. Chimenti, serving in Tonga; Jenna M. Dillion, serving in Senegal; Heather Dixon, serving in Gambia; Seth H. Edmunds, serving in Fiji; Sagar L. Gondalia, serving in Kazakhstan; Larry R. Hanson, serving in Fiji; Daniel J. Healy, serving in Ukriane; Sarah D. Hunt, serving in Romania; Kevin U. Malatesta, serving in Armenia; Joshuah C. Marshall, serving in Morocco; Kathryn D. Mcmillan, serving in Costa Rica; Korie C. Merrill, serving in Togo; Jennifer D. Moore, serving in Nambia; Maggie K. Moran, serving in Romania; Michael O. Nielsen, serving in Malawi; Kelly M. Olenyik, serving in Malawi; Brandon J. Perkins, serving in Burkina Faso; Michael S. Quinn, serving in Kazakhstan; Garrett C. Schiche, serving in Thailand; and Brian M. Steen, serving in Kyrgyzstan.

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