Sam Farr: “I rise today for some very good news. It is news the history of this country's anniversary of the Peace Corps. When I…”

“I rise today for some very good news. It is news the history of this country's anniversary of the Peace Corps. When I was a college student, I was really impressed that the President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, had asked the people of this country to ask what they could do for their country, not what the country could do for them. And since then, people have been joining the Peace Corps. In fact, 182,000 people have served in the Peace Corps, serving in over 138 countries. Now, why is it so important to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the Peace Corps? Well, in the first case, we just recently heard from General Abizaid, who is the supreme commander in the Middle East, that peace can never be obtained until Americans learn to cross the cultural divide. A very profound statement from a warrior. I ask those persons in the United States who want to help sustain the peace in this world to join the Peace Corps. It will be the greatest job, hardest job you have ever enjoyed. I did it when I was a young college student. I invite others at any age to join today. Americans have served as a testament to this country. I hope they will continue for many years. ____________________”