[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 26 (Thursday, March 1, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E265]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                CELEBRATING PEACE CORPS 40TH ANNIVERSARY

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                            HON. MIKE HONDA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 1, 2001

  Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, today I speak in recognition of the 
dedication and commitment of Peace Corps volunteers for the past four 
decades. Since its inception on March 1, 1961 the Peace Corps has 
become a powerful symbol of America's commitment to encouraging 
progress and developing opportunity across the world.
  Today marks the 40th anniversary of the Executive Order signed by 
president John F. Kennedy that established the Peace Corps. Over 
162,000 Americans, including seven current members of Congress, have 
served as Peace Corps volunteers. They have made significant and 
lasting contributions in agriculture, health care, science, human 
rights, and the environment, serving in over 134 nations worldwide. At 
the same time, they have been enriched by their experience and 
strengthened the ties of friendship between the people of the United 
States and the citizens of other nations.
  The Peace Corps also serves as a model for countless other programs 
and continues to foster a spirit of cooperation and volunteerism 
worldwide. Its volunteers come from all races and all walks of life and 
embody the core values that we as Americans treasure.
  I served in the Peace Corps from 1965 to 1967 in El Salvador. Like 
many returning volunteers, I have carried the ideals of the Peace Corps 
and the concept of public service my entire life--into my own community 
and into my career in the United States Congress.
  Mr. Speaker I ask that the Members of Congress honor the men and 
women of the Peace Corps on the occasion of its 40th anniversary and 
continue to promote the spirit of service and volunteerism that they 
embody.

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