speed driving. Therefore, the motorist must be constantly aware of
the speed hazard. This is particularly true with our young drivers.

Last year, drivers under the age of 25 years — who make up less
than 14% of all licensed drivers—were involved in 27% of all fatal
accidents. The experts say the responsibility for these figures rests
with the schools, parents, lenient traffic courts and the percentage of
young drivers who are heedless.

The State Police are using the marked car, the un-marked car and
radar to apprehend the speeder who has no regard for his life or the
lives of others, but the police cannot do the job alone. They must
have the voluntary compliance of the laws by all the citizens of our
State.

On June 15th, I addressed the Maryland Magistrates Association in
Annapolis and stressed the important position they hold in further-
ing the overall safety program dealing with the swift, fair and im-
partial adjudication of motor vehicle cases brought before them. I
was assured of their cooperation. You as individuals, are charged
with the responsibility to uphold the laws of this State and nation,
and the integrity and reputation of the State Police, which has been
earned by your predecessors. This cannot be taken lightly.

Today, you are graduating as State Policemen, and I urge that
you too be proud; proud of the uniform you wear; proud of the
trust that is being placed in you; proud of the authority that is
vested in you; and above all, proud of the opportunity that is yours
for the saving of human lives.

It has given me real pleasure to be here today. As you young men
take up your duties in the ranks of the Maryland State Police, I am
confident that your performance of duty will be in the best tradi-
tion of this fine organization.

Best wishes and good luck to all of you.

ADDRESS, MARYLAND STATE POLICE GRADUATION

PIKESVILLE
December 18, 1959

Last June when I attended graduation here at Pikesville, I recall
pleasantly that the ceremony was held in the shade of the magni-
ficent large poplars out in the quadrangle. At that time, this spen-

419