George Herbert Walker Bush

“ Despite the progress we have made, however, the incidence of crime in the United States is still much too high. More than 22 million households in the United States felt the blow of crime last year, and countless Americans live in fear for their safety. While we can place great confidence in the courage, professionalism, and skill of our law enforcement officials, we also know that government cannot do the job alone—law enforcement officers must have the respect and the support of the people they serve. ”

“ Let us reinforce, by word, deed, and example, the values that make law and order possible: personal responsibility, respect for others, and the fundamental sense of decency that comes from knowing the difference between right and wrong. ”

“ Fortunately, many concerned Americans have already taken a stand to help prevent crime and to apprehend its perpetrators. These Americans are keeping watch over their neighborhoods and reporting any suspicious activity to police; they are helping to identify drug dealers and to clean up abandoned lots and other places that seem to attract illicit activity; and they are working to develop rewarding education and recreation programs that can help keep youngsters away from drugs. Such voluntary grass-roots efforts are vital to winning the fight against crime. ”