John Sarbanes: “Today it is my privilege to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of the Peace Corps as it celebrates its 44th…”

“Today it is my privilege to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of the Peace Corps as it celebrates its 44th anniversary this week. Throughout the years, the Peace Corps has endured as one of the most important forces in our Nation's public diplomacy. At its founding in 1961, President Kennedy remarked, "The initial reactions to the Peace Corps proposal are convincing proof that we have, in this country, an immense reservoir of such men and women--anxious to sacrifice their energies and time and toil to the cause of world peace and human progress." Forty-four years on, the tireless efforts of thousands of Peace Corps volunteers have borne out President Kennedy's vision of service to the global community. Today, nearly 8,000 Americans serving in 72 nations around the world play a vital role in the advancement of education, health care, HIV/ AIDS education, and community and agricultural development.”