Sargent Shriver Helped Create the Agency in 1961, Served as the First Peace Corps Director

WASHINGTON D.C., January 18, 2011The Peace Corps issues the following statement on the passing of Sargent Shriver.

Statement from Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams:

The entire Peace Corps community is deeply saddened by the passing of Sargent Shriver.
Shriver was a distinguished public servant and a visionary leader who accomplished much in his life of public service, but to those of us in the Peace Corps family, he served as our founder, friend, and guiding light for the past 50 years. Because of his determination and vision, more than 200,000 returned Peace Corps volunteers have served in 139 countries, promoting world peace and friendship. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy of idealism will live on in the work of current and future Peace Corps volunteers. Today, Peace Corps volunteers and people worldwide who have been touched by the Peace Corps grieve with Shrivers family and friends.

For more information about the Peace Corps and Sargent Shriver, click here.

To see photos of Shriver click here.

To watch videos of Shriver click here.

About the Peace Corps: President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps on March 1, 1961, by executive order. Throughout 2011, Peace Corps is commemorating 50 years of promoting peace and friendship around the world. Historically, more than 200,000 Americans have served with the Peace Corps to promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of 139 host countries. Today, 8,655 volunteers are working with local communities in 77 host countries. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment.