FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, December 11, 2002

Peace Corps Mourns Loss of Former Director John R. Dellenback

WASHINGTON, D.C., December 11, 2002—On December 7, 2002, former Peace Corps Director John R. Dellenback died of viral pneumonia. Dellenback served as Peace Corps Director from 1975 to 1977 and continued to support returned Peace Corps volunteers as an active advisor for the National Peace Corps Association.

Dellenback’s career spanned a variety of public and private offices. He was elected to Congress in 1966 and held leadership positions in education and natural resources. Dellenback wrote legislation establishing the vast Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and helped amend a bill holding Alaska pipeline permit-holders and shippers liable for oil spills during its construction. He was also an ardent promoter of Christian education and was president of the Christian College Coalition from 1977 to 1988.

“John Dellenback’s death is a tragic loss for Peace Corps. His work in Congress and especially as Peace Corps director has left its mark on both organizations. The staff of the Peace Corps is deeply saddened by this loss. Our heartfelt condolences are extended to his family,” said Peace Corps Director Gaddi H. Vasquez.

Since 1961, more than 165,000 volunteers have served in the Peace Corps, working in such diverse fields as education, health and HIV/AIDS education, information technology, business development, the environment, and agriculture. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a two-year commitment.

# # #

---