[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 29 (Wednesday, March 3, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E293]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE PEACE CORPS FOR 49 YEARS OF EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ANNA G. ESHOO

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 3, 2010

  Ms. ESHOO. Madam Speaker, since President John F. Kennedy announced 
his vision for an American volunteer service, the Peace Corps has made 
extraordinary contributions to millions of people across the globe. It 
plays an ongoing role in encouraging mutual understanding and 
nonviolent coexistence among peoples of diverse cultures.
  In the 49 years since its inception, nearly 200,000 Americans--
including my son Paul--have served in 139 countries across five 
continents. These volunteers have provided lasting contributions to the 
agriculture, economy, technology, education, health, youth, and 
environment in areas of the world that require it most.
  In the course of their service, Peace Corps Volunteers learn new 
languages, gain international experience, and develop an understanding 
of other cultures. Their work and the skills they develop strengthen 
our ties to the global community and enhance our positive image abroad.
  Because of these achievements and its commitment to volunteerism, the 
Peace Corps is one of the most cost-effective foreign policy 
initiatives employed by our nation.
  I've proudly supported the Peace Corps throughout my time in 
Congress. I've fought to increase recruitment of volunteers, develop 
training programs in education and AIDS prevention, and to help 
returning volunteers with student loans. Most recently, I voted tor and 
Congress passed an increased investment in the Peace Corps, allowing 
the creation of new programs in Indonesia and Sierra Leone this year.
  On this 49th anniversary of its founding, I applaud the Peace Corps 
for its important work and honor its volunteers.

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