Goering's order to the Prussian police, 17 February 1933 
 Goering's order to the Prussian police, 17 February 1933 
 Source: J. Noakes & G. Pridham, Documents on Nazism 1919-1945, (London, 1974), pp.168-169. 
 I assume that it is unnecessary to point out especially that the police must in all circumstances avoid giving even the appearance of a hostile attitude, still less the impression of persecuting the patriotic associations [the Nazi Storm Detachments and the Stahlhelm]. I expect all police authorities to maintain the best relations with these organisations, which comprise the most important constructive forces of the State. Patriotic activities and propaganda are to be supported by every means. Police restrictions and impositions must be used only in the most urgent cases. The activities of subversive organisations are on the contrary to be combated with the most drastic methods. Communist terrorist acts and attacks are to be proceeded against with all severity, and weapons must be used ruthlessly when necessary. Police officers who in the execution of this duty use their firearms will be supported by me without regard to the effect of their shots; on the other hand, officers who fail from a false sense of consideration may expect disciplinary measures. The protection of the patriotic population, which has been continually hampered in its activities, demands the most drastic application of the legal regulations against banned demonstrations, illegal assemblies looting, instigation to treason and sedition, mass strikes, risings, press offences, and the other punishable acts of the disturbers of order. Every official must constantly bear in mind that failure to act is more serious than errors committed in acting. I expect and hope that all officers feel themselves at one with me in the aim of saving our fatherland from the ruin, which threatens it by strengthening and unifying the patriotic forces.