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The
U.S. Marine Corps and Senator Barry Goldwater
have also made entries in the history of McCormick
Railroad Park. As an alternative to building
temporary training projects which must then
be destroyed, the Marine training program
often contributes labor to permanent civic
projects. Stillman, who was on the Board of
Visitors of the U.S. Naval Academy, prevailed
upon the Corps to assist with the track-laying
at the park. When neighbors expressed objections
to the Department of Defense, Senator Goldwater
intervened on behalf of the Society and the
track laying was completed. The following
is an excerpt from the letter written by Barry
Goldwater regarding the marines involvement:
"If
you want my honest opinion about all the opposition
you are receiving over your railroad, I think
it is one of the damnest, uncalled-for bits
of action I have ever run in to.
"The
armed services has historically given help
to communities wherever they could and whenever
it was asked for. There is nothing wrong with
the Marines doing this kind of work if the
Marines have the time. If they don't have
the time, I am sure we can call on the Air
Force or the Army or the Navy and they will
be glad to step in.
If
I can help you in any way on this most worthwhile
project, just blow the whistle."
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