Interview with Harry L. Siler, February 9, 2005

Interview Summary

Harry Siler (South Africa, 2001-2003; Education), in the second of two interviews, describes what it was like to come back to the U.S. after living in South Africa. Siler responds by explaining the Close of Service (COS) process that the Peace Corps undertakes when volunteers leave their assignments. He talks about becoming ill just before leaving South Africa and how that impacted his life after returning to the U.S. He compares his lifestyle in South Africa versus the U.S. He talks about returning to his hometown of Williamsburg, Kentucky and the connections and friends he has there. He talks about his newfound interest in writing and Appalachian literature since returning from the Peace Corps. He talks about the impact of the Peace Corps upon South Africa, the world, and himself.

Interview Keyword

Peace Corps volunteers Post-Peace Corps impact Post-retirement education Appalachian literature Appalachian identity

Interview LC Subject

Peace Corps (U.S.)--History Peace Corps (U.S.)--South Africa Siler, Harry L. Siler, Harry L.--Interviews South Africa Peace Corps (U.S.)--History--2000-2009. Education

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.