GOVERNOR HARRY W. NICE BRIDGE 763

Let us promptly and publicly renounce any who counsel or con-
done violence. Let us acknowledge that we have a real stake in our
society. Let us proudly acclaim our patriotism and our recognition
that no other nation in the world offers such opportunity. The fiction
that Negroes lack any opportunity in this country is dispelled by the
status of those of you in this room.

As Thomas Jefferson said, nearly two centuries ago, "With all the
imperfections of our present government, it is without comparison the
best existing, or that ever did exist. "

NEWS RELEASE AND STATEMENT COMPLIMENTING
MILITARY AND CIVILIAN UNITS IN
HANDLING BALTIMORE DISORDER

April 13, 1968

Governor Agnew today complimented General Robert H. York and
the military and civilian forces under his command for "the high
standard of professional excellence they displayed during the recent
events in Baltimore. "

"The soldiers, who entered the City in the midst of rioting and
disorder, combined firmness with restraint to restore order and enable
the City to return to normal operations within a relatively short period
of time, " Governor Agnew said.

"They conducted themselves throughout the operation in a highly
professional manner under extremely difficult circumstances.

"The citizens of Maryland are indebted to these troops and their
commanders, and to our own Federalized National Guard forces who
worked with them, for a job well done. We also deeply appreciate the
equally professional performance of our City and State Police and
Baltimore City firemen who did such a magnificent job under the
trying conditions of the past week. "

REMARKS NAMING THE GOVERNOR HARRY W. NICE

BRIDGE, CROSSING THE POTOMAC RIVER,

CHARLES COUNTY

April 15, 1968

Bridges are traditionally regarded as symbols of progress — the
means to reach a better future and brighter hopes upon a distant
horizon.