Glenn Thompson: “58 years ago this week, President John F. Kennedy signed an executive order establishing the United States Peace Corps.…”

“58 years ago this week, President John F. Kennedy signed an executive order establishing the United States Peace Corps. Since then, more than 200,000 Americans have participated in international service opportunities through the Peace Corps. International service organizations like the Peace Corps and student exchange programs operated by the Department of State play an important role in promoting the image of America around the world. These programs provide American volunteers with a chance to learn about their host country's society and values, and, in turn, volunteers share American culture and values with the people of their host country. This fosters a great understanding of and strong friendship between our country and those around the world. The Peace Corps was created with the strong belief that Americans are willing to contribute part of their life to the country. President Kennedy said that we must not merely aim to have an economic advantage in life, but we must strive for a greater purpose. Madam Speaker, for 58 years, the United States Peace Corps has provided thousands of Americans with that greater purpose. ____________________”