Rep. McCollum Introduces Peace Corps Congressional Gold Medal Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum introduced the Peace Corps Congressional Gold Medal Act on Tuesday, coinciding with the 64th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s signing of the Peace Corps Act. The legislation, which is co-led by Congressman John H. Rutherford (R-FL), would bestow the highest civilian award given by the United States Congress to over 250,000 Americans who’ve volunteered for the Peace Corps since its inception.
“Peace Corps volunteers have proudly represented every corner of the United States in service to our national interests and global development,” said Congresswoman McCollum, the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. “It is because of the stellar work and diplomatic excellence of Peace Corps volunteers that I have a proud legacy of hiring returned Peace Corps volunteers to serve the people of Minnesota’s Fourth District.
“At a time when America’s soft power is under question by our allies and adversaries alike, it is critical that we publicly honor the extraordinary contributions of our returned peace corps volunteers,” added Rep. McCollum. “I’m proud to carry this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Rutherford.”
“For over six decades, the Peace Corps has exemplified America’s commitment to service and diplomacy across the globe,” said Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05). “Their dedication reflects the very best of our nation. It is an honor to recognize the nearly 250,000 volunteers and the lasting legacy of the Peace Corps as it inspires future generations to serve.”
“As America prepares for its 250th anniversary, it is time we recognize America’s role in establishing one of the world’s greatest global peace and friendship-building efforts. For the last 64 years, our national story has included the selfless service and countless accomplishments of nearly a quarter-million Peace Corps Volunteers,” said National Peace Corps Association President and CEO Dan Baker. “We are grateful to Representatives McCollum and Rutherford for their leadership on this legislation, and we ask all members of the House to join them as co-sponsors, so this recognition can coincide with the 65th anniversary of the Peace Corps in 2026.”
Nearly 250,000 Americans have served in more than 140 countries since the foundation of the Peace Corps in 1961. Today, approximately 3,000 U.S. citizens represent our country as Peace Corps volunteers in nearly 60 nations. Peace Corps has hundreds of educational partnerships with colleges and universities across 47 states, and in Guam, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. As the United States prepares for its semiquincentennial, 2026 will also mark the 65thanniversary of the Peace Corps. As many of the early volunteers are aging, this is the perfect moment to recognize their service.
Original co-sponsors of The Peace Corps Congressional Gold Medal Act include: Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA), Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI), and Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH).
Click here to view the text and summary of the legislation.
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