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Hon. F. H. La Guardia   July 18, 1942
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inspire enlistments, but that it might form a focal point around which war activities could center, as in the old days when the plaza in front of the Library was really the heart of all patriotic activities.

Please believe the idea was not to foister sculpture on New York City, but merely to do what we could by our craft to stimulate interest.

Our competition aroused nationwide interest, and we had models submitted from seventeen states. Judges of the competition, who gave the winning figure unanimous vote, were: Major Gilmore Clarke, Eric Gugler, Edward Rowen, Assistant Chief of Fine Arts Department, Washington, D. C., Colonel Douglas Johnston, Commanding Officer at Mitchell Field, designated by the War Department to represent them, and the following sculptors: Cornelia Van A. Chapin, Chairman, Peter Dalton, Ulric Ellerhusen, Chaim Gross, Georg Lober, and Warren Wheelock.

Perhaps it will interest you to know that Colonel Johnston felt that the winning figure represented admirably the spirit of the young American volunteer - - "Let's go!" May I also say that General H. H. Arnold, himself unable to serve on our jury, is still greatly interested in the matter, and every time he sees my sister, Mrs. Frances Biddle, asks her how things are progressing with "Wings for Victory" and she is embarrassed not knowing how to answer.

Despite all the heavy burdens which you are carrying, I hope, dear Mr. Mayor, that you will give this matter your dynamic thought and attention. We would be happy to have our figure placed at some intersection of Broadway and Sixth Avenue if that seems feasible to you, but we would indeed be happy at any location which you would designate for us.

Hoping most earnestly for a favorable answer, I am,

Sincerely yours,

Cornelia Van A. Chapin
Sculpture Chairman

CVAC:H