A ceremony was held in Sierra Leone to mark the swearing-in of eight new Peace Corps Volunteers. The event, attended by local government officials, traditional leaders, Peace Corps staff, and host families, highlighted the beginning of two years of service for these individuals.
Ambassador Bryan David Hunt addressed the gathering and acknowledged the long-standing legacy of the Peace Corps since its founding by President Kennedy more than 60 years ago. He noted that over 240,000 Americans have served in 144 countries as part of this program.
"More than 60 years ago, President Kennedy called on a nation to serve. Confronting global challenges the world over, he founded the Peace Corps with the unshakable belief that if we could export the fruits of our labor and the fruits of our land, then we could surely export the most precious commodity of all – our people," said Ambassador Hunt.
He emphasized that in Sierra Leone, Volunteers collaborate with communities to improve health and education and foster mutual understanding. "Here in Sierra Leone, Volunteers work hand-in-hand with communities to advance health and education, improve livelihoods, and foster mutual understanding. They walk alongside their neighbors, learning from and contributing to the communities they call home. At the heart of Peace Corps is a simple belief: That even the smallest acts of service and compassion aren’t so small in the end. That, together, individual acts give life and breath to the ideals that define an entire country."
The eight new Volunteers completed ten weeks of training covering language skills, technical knowledge, cultural immersion, and personal preparation before their deployment across schools and clinics throughout Sierra Leone.
"These eight individuals we honor today have undergone ten intensive weeks of language instruction, technical training, cultural immersion, and personal preparation. They are ready – ready to teach, ready to listen, ready to serve. Their training has not been easy, but it has been comprehensive and laid the foundation for meaningful community-led development. They are prepared to work in schools, clinics, and villages far from the spotlight – places where their presence will make a real and lasting impact," Hunt said.
Ambassador Hunt also thanked local partners for their ongoing support: "Your warmth, hospitality, and partnership are the backbone of this program. The Peace Corps cannot function without the support of local communities who open their homes offer guidance and help Volunteers find their place... On behalf of the United States Government thank you for welcoming them mentoring them and protecting them as your own."
Addressing those about to take up service roles he added: "Congratulations. You have chosen to embark on a journey that demands resilience humility and deep commitment... In choosing to serve you carry forward a proud legacy of hope inspiration and devotion to others."
He concluded by administering an oath before handing over proceedings for further pledges.
The Peace Corps program continues its focus on supporting trained individuals working abroad while promoting cross-cultural understanding both within host countries like Sierra Leone as well as back in America.