File No. 763.72116/79
The President of the American Institute of Architects ( R. Clipston Sturgis ) to the President of the United States
Your Excellency: As president of the American Institute of Architects, and representing many of the leading men of the profession, and speaking, I believe, for all architects throughout the world, I desire to urge that every precaution be taken against the destruction of architectural monuments situated in the field of this terrible war. These buildings are the heritage and possession not only of the country in which they stand but of the whole civilized world. Every sentiment of loyalty to God and loyalty to the truth and beauty which underlie all art, should make these great monuments a sacred trust. They are at once the memorials of a vital faith and of an inspired imagination, and can never be replaced.
I am [etc.]