Title: 1918 TLS by Franklin D. Roosevelt as Assistant Secretary of the Navy – “Eyes for the Navy” WWI Appeal

Description:
Typed Letter Signed (TLS) by Franklin D. Roosevelt as Assistant Secretary of the Navy, dated March 22, 1918, on official Navy Department letterhead. The letter measures approximately 8" x 10.5" and is addressed to Mr. Wilmer Middleton of Germantown, Philadelphia. In the letter, Roosevelt expresses gratitude for Middleton’s patriotic donation of optical equipment—such as binoculars and spyglasses—for wartime use during World War I. Roosevelt signs clearly at the bottom in fountain pen as “F.D. Roosevelt.” The document is in fine condition, with light fold lines and mild age toning.

Historical Context:
Written during the final year of World War I, this letter comes from Franklin D. Roosevelt’s tenure as Assistant Secretary of the Navy (1913–1920), a role that foreshadowed his future as a wartime President. Amid the global conflict, the U.S. Navy appealed to American citizens to donate optical instruments to assist with maritime operations—a campaign known as “Eyes for the Navy.” Roosevelt, already demonstrating strong administrative and communication skills, oversaw such efforts, which supported naval intelligence and reconnaissance.

The letter thanks Mr. Middleton for his prompt and patriotic response, assuring him that the glasses “will be very useful in the prosecution of Naval Operations until victory is won.” It also expresses hope that, should circumstances allow, the donated equipment would be returned after the war.

Full Transcription:

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NAVY DEPARTMENT,
ASSISTANT SECRETARY'S OFFICE,
WASHINGTON.

March 22, 1918.

Mr. Wilmer Middleton,
114 W. Rittenhouse St.,
Germantown, Phila. Pa.

Dear Sir:

Your prompt and patriotic response to the NAVY’s call for binoculars, telescopes, and spy-glasses, is most appreciated. The glasses will be very useful in the prosecution of Naval Operations until victory is won.

At the termination of the war, if possible, every effort will be made to return them to you, when it is hoped that you will feel compensated for any evidence of war, by the knowledge that you have supplied “Eyes for the NAVY” during a very trying period.

On behalf of the NAVY, I wish to thank you most heartily.

Very respectfully,
F.D. Roosevelt
Assistant Secretary of the Navy.

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Closing Appeal:
This letter provides a rare and early example of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s leadership during WWI, long before his presidency. It offers both historical and personal value—illustrating the U.S. home front’s contribution to the war effort and Roosevelt’s early governmental role. Signed wartime correspondence from FDR in this capacity is increasingly sought after, making this a compelling piece for collectors of presidential, naval, or WWI history.