AMERICAN LEGION CONVENTION 359

and revitalization of Maryland's police, correctional and criminal
justice procedures. Intergovernmental cooperation — both regional
and national — is imperative, for crime neither knows nor respects
political boundaries.

The prison riots of last July, November and January, symptoms of
a sick system, were assigned causes by the Attorney General's investi-
gation. Statistical evidence alone indicates formidable flaws — seven
out of every ten convicts released from Maryland's prisons return to
serve another term. Under the new Commissioner of Correction, major
reforms, dynamic vocational rehabilitation programs and psychological
training for prison guards are already in planning.

Thus far, I have outlined the State's strategy in its war against crime.
I have set forth major battle plans designed to assure victory. Yet we
may lose this war if we fail to excite and enlist the citizen-soldier.
The State has provided funds to improve police pay. The State has
provided programs to upgrade police performance. The State has
financed equipment to expedite efficiency. However, the State cannot
provide the policeman with the respect, the cooperation and the pres-
tige which he deserves. Only the public can do that.

The public must learn that the cop on the beat, the patrolman in
blue, is on our side in this war. His uniform is the uniform of our
troops. A policeman's badge should command the same respect granted
a soldier's green beret, a sailor's dolphin, a pilot's wings.

Insufficient recruitment and a lack of respect for law and order are
the major problems confronting law enforcement agencies today.
Both problems can be traced directly to the public's disinterest.

You, the State leaders of the American Legion — whose interest and
ability have brought you to this convention today — can enlist in this
war at home. You can serve your State with the same valor that you
served your nation. You can sponsor Maryland's Crusade against crime
in your community by enlisting all the energy and resources of your
organization.

What is your duty as a citizen-soldier?

One: To conduct your personal life so that no aid or comfort is
inadvertently given to the enemy. To assure that no nickel, dime or
dollar earned in your home is invested in the so-called innocent, illegal
vices.

Two: To develop a reverence for law and a respect for those that
enforce it within your home.