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CIVILIAN DEFENSE REPORT
October 28, 1942.
Hagerstown

Today one reads in the daily press of the heroism of our armed forces,
whose members are making World War Two an era of gallantry, sacrifice, and
incredible toughness. In that spirit, Democracy has proven that it-has not been
found wanting.

At home the same dogged spirit prevails. We now realize that wars are
not won by indifference, by dreaming about glory, or by conferences; but only
by hard, relentless work, here at home as well as on the battlefield.

Naturally, the first impact of a war offers somethings of a thrill. Victory
always seems easier at first than it actually is. Now, after the bitter taste of
battles lost and thousands of our valiant boys lost in action*, and with the sus-
pense of the current struggle in the Solomons weighing upon us all, we realize
the hugeness of the ta3k that the destruction of Japan and Nazi Germany in-
volves.

Not that the hugeness dismays us. We know that we have both the
strength and the will to win. And at home the pattern of individual action,
individual sacrifice, and individual contribution is rapidly crystallizing.

Right here in Maryland the willingness to do more, and then more, and
again more, has been surging like a great ground swell.

This has been gloriously demonstrated 'in Maryland's Civilian Defense
activities.

As early as August, 1940, the shadow of" invading hordes that were sweep-
ing over the countries of Europe cast its onionous reflection over our land. We
immediately established the Council of Defense. I am happy to report that in
this, Maryland again recorded another first to its long and illustrious record
of responding to the Country's call in time of need. Maryland was the first
State to organize a Defense Council.

Early in 1941 when the Axis unleashed its ruthless aerial blitzkreig on
neutral and undefended nations the need for preparedness became apparent.
We were not to be caught napping.

The Maryland Council of Defense issued a call for volunteers to establish
Spotter Posts for the Aircraft Warning Service which were being set up under
the general direction of the American Legion. This activity was aggressively
prosecuted and the response of the people was heartening. Since September,
1941, these Spotter Posts have been functioning steadily and effectively. The
people of Maryland owe an everlasting debt of gratitude to the thousands of
men and women, whose patriotic devotion to their duties has kept Maryland
safe from surprise attack. Today there are over 200 Observation Posts