insure their safety during and after an atomic attack. One means of
doing this is to pave the way for the construction of private fall-out
shelters.

During the several months, it has become apparent that building,
housing and zoning codes throughout the State must be revised. Alert
citizens seeking permission to construct fall-out shelters have been
stymied by laws, which in light of the clear and present danger of
nuclear attack, are inadequate. During today's meeting, there will
be a discussion on this problem. Perhaps the solution lies in the
enactment of a statewide law pertaining to the building of fall-out
shelters. If legislation is required, it will receive my firm backing.

I note with satisfaction that some of the political subdivisions in
Maryland are conducting surveys to determine what facilities can
be used as public shelters in the event of a nuclear attack. Such
surveys should be conducted intensively in every county. We must
prepare an inventory of what we have available to better determine
what we need. Only then will we have an accurate picture of the
enormous task confronting us.

I also urge you to discuss the possibility of encouraging lending
institutions in Maryland to extend long term loans to homeowners
wishing to construct private fall-out shelters. Immediate cash outlays
will work hardships on most of the citizens of this State. If long-term
loans can be made available, they may serve to stimulate those who
fear for their safety but who have no immediate financial resources
available to build the shelter they so desperately want.

Briefly, ladies and gentlemen, I have outlined what I consider to
be the problems facing us as we attempt to develop a plan of action
for Maryland in case of nuclear bombardment.

We must be prepared to face the derisive sneers of those who think
that, mankind will be unable to survive a nuclear holocaust under
any circumstances. The will to live is man's greatest instinct. We must
capitalize on that instinct if we are to preserve our way of life.

REMARKS TO THE ANNUAL COUNTY CIVIL DEFENSE

DIRECTORS MEETING

PIKESVILLE

June 21, 1962

I am delighted to be with you again this evening. This is the first
opportunity we have had to meet together as a group since the
Governor's Civil Defense Conference in Annapolis on September 28.

Ill