[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 32 (Thursday, February 27, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E311]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              NATIONAL PEACE CORPS DAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2003

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. CHRISTOPHER COX

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 27, 2003

  Mr. COX. Mr. Speaker, tomorrow is National Peace Corps Day. It is 
with great pleasure that I send my congratulations to Peace Corps 
volunteers serving throughout the world as we celebrate the Peace 
Corps' 42 years of service.
  Forty-two years ago, President John F. Kennedy mobilized a generation 
to work in developing nations around the world in education, community 
development, agriculture, health care, and public works. Although each 
volunteer is given a particular role in a community, the most important 
job is the simple day-to-day interaction each volunteer has with the 
people of the villages in which they serve.
  Since 1961, over 168,000 Americans have volunteered their expertise, 
time, and energy to foster development and progress in 136 countries. 
There is no greater symbol of America's generosity than American 
volunteers living and working in partnership with the people of 
developing nations to encourage education and opportunity.
  As grass-roots ambassadors, Peace Corps volunteers have conveyed the 
message of freedom and hope to communities in need of help. In doing 
so, they have strengthened the ties of international friendship and 
understanding, and have spread the spirit of sharing that is so 
fundamental to American society.
  It is my deepest hope that we continue to recognize and support the 
Peace Corps' work. By honoring the Peace Corps, we reaffirm our 
nation's commitment to strengthen freedom and create opportunities 
around the world.
  I am very happy to join with Peace Corps volunteers, past and 
present, to celebrate National Peace Corps Day 2003.

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