MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
 
     
 
 
We have been informed by the British Embassy that the question  
of recognizing the "open city" status of Rome is again under active  
consideration.
 
 
 
We believe that a military campaign for the possession of Rome,  
with the unavoidable destruction by bombing and shelling which  
would be required to dislodge the Germans, would affect adversely  
public opinion, not only in this country, but in Christian countries  
throughout the world, particularly Central and South America. Aside  
from the religious significance of the city, the historical importance   
of its monuments to the Western World make it highly desirable  
that we avoid the responsibility for destroying large sections of  
Rome while liberating it from the Germans. Consequently, we believe  
that serious consideration should be given to this public attitude  
on the subject whenever it may arise for decision.
 
     
 
 
I am sure you have the above in mind, but the Department felt  
it important to emphasize again.