John Kennedy's idea for the Peace Corps became reality when he signed the Executive Order March 1,1961. He appointed his brother in law director and his official service dates are March 22, 1961-February 28, 1966. However, Shriver was at work by March 4th and this letter on "Peace Corps" stationery is dated March 21, 1961, the day before his "official" start date. He is writing York, Pa. newsman Harry McLaughlin and text reads "Thank You For Your Letter Of March 13 And For The Clipping You Enclosed. I Agree With You That The Peace Corps Idea Certainly Is Eliciting A Nationwide Response Which Knows No Political Boundaries. Thank You Again For Your Encouragement And Support." He signed "Sergeant Shriver" and added handwritten note "P.S. If You Are Ever Down This Way, Please Let Me Know. I Was Born In Westminster, Md; Used To Visit In York And Hanover A Lot. My Family In Fact Came First Into Southern Pennsylvania From Germany." Closing with his initials "RSS." Letter has three horizontal creases, lt. vertical crease and some smaller random creases. Still displays very cleanly. See next related item. In his six years as director, Shriver established the Peace Corps in 55 countries with over 14,500 volunteers. From the Harry McLaughlin Collection. Comes with Hake's COA.