[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]




          RECOGNIZING THE 49TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PEACE CORPS

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                      HON. SANFORD D. BISHOP, JR.

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 3, 2010

  Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 
the 49th anniversary of the Peace Corps and to commemorate Peace Corps 
Week.
  Volunteers of the Peace Corps have served valiantly since President 
John F. Kennedy challenged Americans to work towards the cause of 
peace. Since its creation on March 1, 1961, nearly 200,000 Americans 
have answered that call to contribute and improve Americans' 
understanding of other peoples and other peoples' understanding of 
Americans. At a time when extremist philosophies are increasing 
throughout the world, we need these dedicated individuals more than 
ever.
  Madam Speaker, I would like to commend the 6,671 Peace Corps 
volunteers, including 153 volunteers from the State of Georgia, who are 
currently working to provide expertise and developmental assistance to 
76 countries. These volunteers are dedicating themselves each day to 
the vision of President Kennedy. These individuals share their time and 
talents by serving as teachers, business advisors, HIV/AIDS educators, 
as well as sharing their knowledge of information technology, 
agriculture, the environment, and health.
  On this anniversary I would like to acknowledge Jonathan Lewis, who 
is a prime example of a volunteer who is working to accomplish the 
goals of Peace Corps. Jonathan has been working in Kazakhstan this past 
year to organize the first official youth developmental group in the 
country, focusing on leadership, work ethics, and healthy lifestyles. 
At night he volunteers his time teaching English and American culture 
to students in schools and libraries around the country. Jonathan's 
efforts and all the Volunteers represent the caring spirit that runs 
deep in our country.
  Today I honor the Peace Corps and its brave volunteers for their 
service to our nation and to the international community. In our ever-
shrinking world, the mission of the Peace Corps is more vital than 
ever. I hope that each one of my distinguished colleagues will join me 
in commending these men and women for their service.

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