As many of you know, I am now entering the twilight of my second
term as Governor of Maryland. However, my interest in preserving
the waters of our State and Nation for boating and other forms of
recreation remains as strong as the day I first took the oath of my
office. Last Wednesday, for example, Maryland's Department of Forests
and Parks announced plans for a State park to be constructed at the
head of the Severn River—a park that will include a several hundred
acre lake. And during the last session of the Maryland General As-
sembly, legislation was enacted earmarking several hundred thousand
dollars in revenues collected from boat owners in Maryland to the
improvement of our waterways.

The people of Maryland, of Virginia and, indeed, of the Nation,
look to their public officials for the action necessary to preserve our
waterways for the recreational pursuits of present and future genera-
tions of Americans. But they look to the Power Squadrons of the United
States for their safety and for instruction so that they are prepared to
enjoy these recreational benefits.

Speaking on behalf of the people of Maryland and, I am sure, on
behalf of boat lovers throughout the Nation, I wish to thank all of
you for the splendid contributions you have made in promoting the
safety and health of your fellow citizens. It is, indeed, an honor and
a privilege for me to be here with you today and I look forward
to joining you again in the future.

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