[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 34 (Thursday, February 26, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E484]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            PEACE CORPS WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EDWARD R. ROYCE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 26, 2009

  Mr. ROYCE. Madam Speaker, I rise to commemorate National Peace Corps 
Week and the 48th anniversary of the Peace Corps.
  While much has changed in the world since the Peace Corps was created 
in 1961, its goals and ideals of promoting goodwill remain. Volunteers 
continue to provide invaluable services in over 70 countries, serving 
as educators, technology consultants, environmental specialists, and 
business advisors.
  At a time when extremism is sweeping through much of the globe, more 
than ever, we need these dedicated individuals.
  As the former chairman of the House Subcommittee on Africa, I have 
had the opportunity to meet with several Peace Corps Volunteers around 
the continent. The commitment these men and women have shown is 
extremely impressive and is to be commended.
  These Americans, approximately 7,800 of them, are serving their 
country in often extremely difficult conditions. They live at the same 
level of the people they serve, and uniquely connect with them. Since 
its inception, over 195,000 Volunteers have worked in over 139 
countries.
  In my district, I'm proud to say that I have thirteen Peace Corps 
Volunteers, stationed around the world. Christina Balch in Lesotho, 
Joan Bash in Bulgaria, Joseph Flores in Macedonia, Mamie Florin in 
Gambia, Wendy Jones in Kenya, Olenka Langen in Nicaragua, Justin Lee in 
the Dominican Republic, Dulce Martinez in China, Lacey Monson in 
Thailand, Carmen Munoz in Guatemala, Joan Ngo in Paraguay, Stacey Ngo 
in the Dominican Republic, and Leala Ruangtragool in Honduras, are each 
to be commended for their service.
  Madam Speaker, I have seen the valuable work the Peace Corps is doing 
in Africa, and throughout the world. It deserves our recognition and 
support.

                          ____________________