. of Governor Herbert R. O'Conor 381

Our State has benefited appreciably "from the fine contributions of prin-
ciple, idealism and good citizenship made by citizens of Polish stock, and I. _
wish to say that Maryland is proud of them.

Appropriate is it, too, that, the ceremonies connected with the laying. of
the cornerstone of this monument should be held at this time. Because yester-
day, May 3rd, was a day of historical and patriotic significance to people of
Polish birth and descent -throughout the world, celebrating, as it does, the an-
niversary of the establishment of the Polish Constitution of Independence and
Freedom.

As Governor of Maryland it was my happy privilege to participate in the
arrangements that necessarily preceded the beginning of this very laudable
movement. It was my privilege too, to make available, and this I did most
gladly, the appropriation of $16,000 as the State's contribution to this memorial.

The Polish Colony of Maryland may well be proud of this first distinguished
member of their race who gave his all in the cause of American liberty.. This
monument, so dear to their. hearts, situated in their very midst, you might say,
will serve as a continuing,. reminder to them as well as to all the residents of
our State of the glorious part played in the history of our State -and Nation by
former citizens of Poland, and their many thousands of descendents now resi-
dents or former citizens of our State.

Finally, may I say that this monument will see the day when it will be
the rallying point around which joyful Americans will assemble to celebrate the
reestablishment and international recognition of Poland, the splendid record
of which country has been one to inspire admiration and noble asperations for
not only other European nations, but even our own beloved United States.